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Dhandapani S, Choi HS, Chung H, Perumalsamy H, Wang R, Balusamy SR, Natarajan S, Park J, Kim YJ. Lysine-Rich Polypeptide Modulates Forkhead Box O3 and Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase-Protein Kinase B Pathway To Induce Apoptosis in Breast Cancer. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1884-1900. [PMID: 38898949 PMCID: PMC11184599 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The PI3K/AKT/FOXO3 pathway is one of the most frequently involved signaling pathways in cancer, including breast cancer. Therefore, we synthesized a novel lysine-rich polypeptide (Lys-PP) using de novo assembly method and evaluated its anticancer effect. We characterized the structural and physicochemical properties of Lys-PP using various techniques. Later, we used integrated approaches such as in silico, in vitro, and in vivo analysis to confirm the anticancer and therapeutic effect of Lys-PP. First, RNA sequencing suggests Lys-PP disrupted the central carbon metabolic pathway through the modulation of prolactin signaling. Additionally, docking analysis also confirmed the significant association of PI3K/AKT and FOXO3 pathway to induce an apoptotic effect on cancer. Second, Lys-PP exhibited a significant cytotoxicity effect against MDA-MB-231 but no cytotoxic effects on RAW 264.7 and HEK-293, respectively. The cytotoxic effect of Lys-PP-induced apoptosis by an increase in FOXO3a protein expression and a decrease in PI3K/AKT pathway was confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunoblotting, and fluorescent microscopy. Later, immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin and eosin staining on MDA-MD-231 showed increased FOXO3a expression and cell death in the xenograft mice model. Further, liver function, metabolic health, or lipid profile upon Lys-PP showed the absence of significant modulation in the biomarkers except for kidney-related biomarkers. Overall, our comprehensive study provides the first evidence of Lys-PP antibreast cancer action, which could serve as a potential treatment in an alternative or complementary medicine practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeevram Dhandapani
- Graduate
School of Biotechnology, and College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic
of Korea
| | - Han-Sol Choi
- Graduate
School of Biotechnology, and College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic
of Korea
| | - Hoyong Chung
- 3BIGS
Co., Ltd., Suwon-si 16506, Republic of Korea
| | - Haribalan Perumalsamy
- Graduate
School of Biotechnology, and College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic
of Korea
- Research
Institute for Convergence of Basic Science, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic
of Korea
| | - Rongbo Wang
- Graduate
School of Biotechnology, and College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic
of Korea
| | - Sri Renukadevi Balusamy
- Department
of Food Science and Biotechnology, Sejong
University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Yeon-Ju Kim
- Graduate
School of Biotechnology, and College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Republic
of Korea
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2
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Chen X, Ma C, Li Y, Liang Y, Chen T, Han D, Luo D, Zhang N, Zhao W, Wang L, Yang Q. COL5A1 promotes triple-negative breast cancer progression by activating tumor cell-macrophage crosstalk. Oncogene 2024; 43:1742-1756. [PMID: 38609499 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03030-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an exceptionally aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Despite the recognized interplay between tumors and tumor-associated macrophages in fostering drug resistance and disease progression, the precise mechanisms leading these interactions remain elusive. Our study revealed that the upregulation of collagen type V alpha 1 (COL5A1) in TNBC tissues, particularly in chemoresistant samples, was closely linked to an unfavorable prognosis. Functional assays unequivocally demonstrated that COL5A1 played a pivotal role in fueling cancer growth, metastasis, and resistance to doxorubicin, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the cytokine IL-6, produced by COL5A1-overexpressing TNBC cells actively promoted M2 macrophage polarization. In turn, TGFβ from M2 macrophages drived TNBC doxorubicin resistance through the TGFβ/Smad3/COL5A1 signaling pathway, establishing a feedback loop between TNBC cells and macrophages. Mechanistically, COL5A1 interacted with TGM2, inhibiting its K48-linked ubiquitination-mediated degradation, thereby enhancing chemoresistance and increasing IL-6 secretion. In summary, our findings underscored the significant contribution of COL5A1 upregulation to TNBC progression and chemoresistance, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chenao Ma
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yaming Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yiran Liang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Tong Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Dianwen Han
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Wenjing Zhao
- Pathology Tissue Bank, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Pathology Tissue Bank, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qifeng Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Pathology Tissue Bank, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Research Institute of Breast Cancer, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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Sun J, Xiang Q, Ding D, Yan N. USP10 suppresses ABCG2-induced malignant characteristics of doxorubicin-resistant thyroid cancer by inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2023; 55:457-466. [PMID: 37919637 PMCID: PMC10682060 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-023-09986-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is the most extensively used drug in the chemotherapy of thyroid cancer (TC). However, the existence of DOX resistance is not conducive to TC treatment. Here, we investigated the role of USP10 in DOX-resistant TC and explored the underlying molecular mechanism. CCK-8 assay was used to measure cell viability in thyroid cancer FTC133 and DOX-resistant FTC133-DOX cells. RT-qPCR and western blot were used to evaluate USP10 expression. Cell migration, invasion, and apoptotic assays were conducted. Western blot was used to detect cellular signaling proteins, EMT-related proteins, and apoptosis-related proteins. We found a lower expression of USP10 in the human TC cell line FTC133 as compared to the normal human thyroid Htori-3 cells. Notably, USP10 expression was further reduced in DOX-resistant (FTC133-DOX) cells compared to the FTC133 cells. FTC133-DOX cells had increased invasion, migration, and EMT properties while less apoptosis by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway. Interestingly, overexpressing USP10 increased the chemosensitivity of FTC133 cells to DOX therapy. Overexpressing USP10 inhibited invasion, migration, and EMT properties of FTC133-DOX cells and promoted apoptosis. Mechanistically, overexpressing USP10 inhibited PI3K/AKT pathway by activating PTEN. Furthermore, overexpressed USP10 controlled all these processes by downregulating ABCG2. This study demonstrates that USP10 could reduce DOX-induced resistance of TC cells to DOX therapy and could suppress TC malignant behavior by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway. Furthermore, USP10 targeted ABCG2 to inhibit all these malignant processes, therefore, either increasing USP10 expression or inhibiting ABCG2 could be used as novel targets for treating DOX-resistant thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Sun
- Department of Ultrasound, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 17 South Goldenlake Road, Gejiu, 661000, China
| | - Qian Xiang
- Department of Endocrinology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 17 South Goldenlake Road, Gejiu, 661000, China
| | - Ding Ding
- Department of Ultrasound, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 17 South Goldenlake Road, Gejiu, 661000, China
| | - Nan Yan
- Department of Ultrasound, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 17 South Goldenlake Road, Gejiu, 661000, China.
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Unraveling the Role of Scutellaria baicalensis for the Treatment of Breast Cancer Using Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043594. [PMID: 36835006 PMCID: PMC9964558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria baicalensis is often used to treat breast cancer, but the molecular mechanism behind the action is unclear. In this study, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation are combined to reveal the most active compound in Scutellaria baicalensis and to explore the interaction between the compound molecule and the target protein in the treatment of breast cancer. In total, 25 active compounds and 91 targets were screened out, mainly enriched in lipids in atherosclerosis, the AGE-RAGE signal pathway of diabetes complications, human cytomegalovirus infection, Kaposi-sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection, the IL-17 signaling pathway, small-cell lung cancer, measles, proteoglycans in cancer, human immunodeficiency virus 1 infection, and hepatitis B. Molecular docking shows that the two most active compounds, i.e., stigmasterol and coptisine, could bind well to the target AKT1. According to the MD simulations, the coptisine-AKT1 complex shows higher conformational stability and lower interaction energy than the stigmasterol-AKT1 complex. On the one hand, our study demonstrates that Scutellaria baicalensis has the characteristics of multicomponent and multitarget synergistic effects in the treatment of breast cancer. On the other hand, we suggest that the best effective compound is coptisine targeting AKT1, which can provide a theoretical basis for the further study of the drug-like active compounds and offer molecular mechanisms behind their roles in the treatment of breast cancer.
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The Impact of Oxidative Stress and AKT Pathway on Cancer Cell Functions and Its Application to Natural Products. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091845. [PMID: 36139919 PMCID: PMC9495789 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and AKT serine-threonine kinase (AKT) are responsible for regulating several cell functions of cancer cells. Several natural products modulate both oxidative stress and AKT for anticancer effects. However, the impact of natural product-modulating oxidative stress and AKT on cell functions lacks systemic understanding. Notably, the contribution of regulating cell functions by AKT downstream effectors is not yet well integrated. This review explores the role of oxidative stress and AKT pathway (AKT/AKT effectors) on ten cell functions, including apoptosis, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial morphogenesis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, DNA damage response, senescence, migration, and cell-cycle progression. The impact of oxidative stress and AKT are connected to these cell functions through cell function mediators. Moreover, the AKT effectors related to cell functions are integrated. Based on this rationale, natural products with the modulating abilities for oxidative stress and AKT pathway exhibit the potential to regulate these cell functions, but some were rarely reported, particularly for AKT effectors. This review sheds light on understanding the roles of oxidative stress and AKT pathway in regulating cell functions, providing future directions for natural products in cancer treatment.
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Das A, Bhattacharya B, Roy S. Decrypting a path based approach for identifying the interplay between PI3K and GSK3 signaling cascade from the perspective of cancer. Genes Dis 2022; 9:868-888. [PMID: 35685456 PMCID: PMC9170611 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2021.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of those leading diseases worldwide, which takes millions of lives every year. Researchers are continuously looking for specific approaches to eradicate the deadly disease, ensuring minimal adverse effects along with more therapeutic significance. Targeting of different aberrantly regulated signaling pathways, involved in cancer, is surely one of the revolutionary chemotherapeutic approach. In this instance, GSK3 and PI3K signaling cascades are considered as important role player for both the oncogenic activation and inactivation which further leads to cancer proliferation and metastasis. In this review, we have discussed the potential role of GSK3 and PI3K signaling in cancer, and we further established the crosstalk between PI3K and GSK3 signaling, through showcasing their cross activation, cross inhibition and convergence pathways in association with cancer. We also exhibited the effect of GSK3 on the efficacy of PI3K inhibitors to overcome the drug resistance and preventing the cell proliferation, metastasis in a combinatorial way with GSK3 inhibitors for a better treatment strategy in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Das
- Department of Pharmacology, NSHM Knowledge Campus, Kolkata- Group of Institutions, Kolkata 700053, India
| | - Barshana Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology, NSHM Knowledge Campus, Kolkata- Group of Institutions, Kolkata 700053, India
| | - Souvik Roy
- Department of Pharmacology, NSHM Knowledge Campus, Kolkata- Group of Institutions, Kolkata 700053, India
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Venetoclax-Resistant MV4-11 Leukemic Cells Activate PI3K/AKT Pathway for Metabolic Reprogramming and Redox Adaptation for Survival. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030461. [PMID: 35326111 PMCID: PMC8944541 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Venetoclax (ABT199) is a selective B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) inhibitor. The US FDA recently approved it to be used in combination with low-dose cytarabine or hypomethylating agents in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or elderly patients non-eligible for chemotherapy. However, acquiring resistance to venetoclax in AML patients is the primary cause of treatment failure. To understand the molecular mechanisms inherent in the resistance to BCL-2 inhibitors, we generated a venetoclax-resistant cell line model and assessed the consequences of this resistance on its metabolic pathways. Untargeted metabolomics data displayed a notable impact of resistance on the PI3K/AKT pathway, the Warburg effect, glycolysis, the TCA cycle, and redox metabolism. The resistant cells showed increased NADPH and reduced glutathione levels, switching their energy metabolism towards glycolysis. PI3K/AKT pathway inhibition shifted resistant cells towards oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Our results provide a metabolic map of resistant cells that can be used to design novel metabolic targets to challenge venetoclax resistance in AML.
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Sankarasubramanian S, Pfohl U, Regenbrecht CRA, Reinhard C, Wedeken L. Context Matters-Why We Need to Change From a One Size Fits all Approach to Made-to-Measure Therapies for Individual Patients With Pancreatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:760705. [PMID: 34805167 PMCID: PMC8599957 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.760705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers and remains a major unsolved health problem. While pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with driver mutations in only four major genes (KRAS, TP53, SMAD4, and CDKN2A), every tumor differs in its molecular landscape, histology, and prognosis. It is crucial to understand and consider these differences to be able to tailor treatment regimens specific to the vulnerabilities of the individual tumor to enhance patient outcome. This review focuses on the heterogeneity of pancreatic tumor cells and how in addition to genetic alterations, the subsequent dysregulation of multiple signaling cascades at various levels, epigenetic and metabolic factors contribute to the oncogenesis of PDAC and compensate for each other in driving cancer progression if one is tackled by a therapeutic approach. This implicates that besides the need for new combinatorial therapies for PDAC, a personalized approach for treating this highly complex cancer is required. A strategy that combines both a target-based and phenotypic approach to identify an effective treatment, like Reverse Clinical Engineering® using patient-derived organoids, is discussed as a promising way forward in the field of personalized medicine to tackle this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ulrike Pfohl
- CELLphenomics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- ASC Oncology GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Bio Science, Goethe University Frankfurt Am Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christian R. A. Regenbrecht
- CELLphenomics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- ASC Oncology GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Lena Wedeken
- CELLphenomics GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- ASC Oncology GmbH, Berlin, Germany
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Joshi BC, Juyal V, Sah AN, Verma P, Mukhija M. Review On Documented Medicinal Plants Used For The Treatment Of Cancer. CURRENT TRADITIONAL MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/2215083807666211011125110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background:
Cancer is a frightful disease and it is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Naturally derived compounds are gaining interest of research workers as they have less toxic side effects as compared to currently used treatments such as chemotherapy. Plants are the pool of chemical compounds which provides a promising future for research on cancer.
Objective:
This review paper provides updated information gathered on medicinal plants and isolated phytoconstituents used as anticancer agents and summarises the plant extracts and their isolated chemical constituents exhibiting anticancer potential on clinical trials.
Methods:
An extensive bibliographic investigation was carried out by analysing worldwide established scientific databases like SCOPUS, PUBMED, SCIELO, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, Web of Science, Wiley, SciFinder and Google Scholar etc. In next few decades, herbal medicine may become a new epoch of medical system.
Results:
Many researches are going on medicinal plants for the treatment of cancer but it is a time to increase further experimental studies on plant extracts and their chemical constituents to find out their mechanism of action at molecular level.
Conclusion:
The article may help many researchers to start off further experimentation that might lead to the drugs for the cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuwan Chandra Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Technology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal Campus, Nainital-263136, India
| | - Vijay Juyal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Technology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal Campus, Nainital-263136, India
| | - Archana N. Sah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Technology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal Campus, Nainital-263136, India
| | - Piyush Verma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical science and Technology, Sardar Bhagwan Singh University, Dehradun-248001, India
| | - Minky Mukhija
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ch. Devi Lal College of Pharmacy, Buria Road, Bhagwangarh, Jagadhri-135003, India
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Apoptosis Deregulation and the Development of Cancer Multi-Drug Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174363. [PMID: 34503172 PMCID: PMC8430856 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite recent therapeutic advances against cancer, many patients do not respond well or respond poorly, to treatment and develop resistance to more than one anti-cancer drug, a term called multi-drug resistance (MDR). One of the main factors that contribute to MDR is the deregulation of apoptosis or programmed cell death. Herein, we describe the major apoptotic pathways and discuss how pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins are modified in cancer cells to convey drug resistance. We also focus on our current understanding related to the interactions between survival and cell death pathways, as well as on mechanisms underlying the balance shift towards cancer cell growth and drug resistance. Moreover, we highlight the role of the tumor microenvironment components in blocking apoptosis in MDR tumors, and we discuss the significance and potential exploitation of epigenetic modifications for cancer treatment. Finally, we summarize the current and future therapeutic approaches for overcoming MDR. Abstract The ability of tumor cells to evade apoptosis is established as one of the hallmarks of cancer. The deregulation of apoptotic pathways conveys a survival advantage enabling cancer cells to develop multi-drug resistance (MDR), a complex tumor phenotype referring to concurrent resistance toward agents with different function and/or structure. Proteins implicated in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, including the Bcl-2 superfamily and Inhibitors of Apoptosis (IAP) family members, as well as their regulator, tumor suppressor p53, have been implicated in the development of MDR in many cancer types. The PI3K/AKT pathway is pivotal in promoting survival and proliferation and is often overactive in MDR tumors. In addition, the tumor microenvironment, particularly factors secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts, can inhibit apoptosis in cancer cells and reduce the effectiveness of different anti-cancer drugs. In this review, we describe the main alterations that occur in apoptosis-and related pathways to promote MDR. We also summarize the main therapeutic approaches against resistant tumors, including agents targeting Bcl-2 family members, small molecule inhibitors against IAPs or AKT and agents of natural origin that may be used as monotherapy or in combination with conventional therapeutics. Finally, we highlight the potential of therapeutic exploitation of epigenetic modifications to reverse the MDR phenotype.
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Rascio F, Spadaccino F, Rocchetti MT, Castellano G, Stallone G, Netti GS, Ranieri E. The Pathogenic Role of PI3K/AKT Pathway in Cancer Onset and Drug Resistance: An Updated Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3949. [PMID: 34439105 PMCID: PMC8394096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13163949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The PI3K/AKT pathway is one of the most frequently over-activated intracellular pathways in several human cancers. This pathway, acting on different downstream target proteins, contributes to the carcinogenesis, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumour cells. A multi-level impairment, involving mutation and genetic alteration, aberrant regulation of miRNAs sequences, and abnormal phosphorylation of cascade factors, has been found in multiple cancer types. The deregulation of this pathway counteracts common therapeutic strategies and contributes to multidrug resistance. In this review, we underline the involvement of this pathway in patho-physiological cell survival mechanisms, emphasizing its key role in the development of drug resistance. We also provide an overview of the potential inhibition strategies currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Rascio
- Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (G.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Federica Spadaccino
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (F.S.); (G.S.N.); (E.R.)
| | - Maria Teresa Rocchetti
- Cell Biology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Castellano
- Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (G.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Giovanni Stallone
- Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (G.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Stefano Netti
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (F.S.); (G.S.N.); (E.R.)
| | - Elena Ranieri
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Advanced Research Center on Kidney Aging (A.R.K.A.), Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (F.S.); (G.S.N.); (E.R.)
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12
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Junaid M, Akter Y, Afrose SS, Tania M, Khan MA. Biological Role of AKT and Regulation of AKT Signaling Pathway by Thymoquinone: Perspectives in Cancer Therapeutics. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:288-301. [PMID: 33019927 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520666201005143818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AKT/PKB is an important enzyme with numerous biological functions, and its overexpression is related to carcinogenesis. AKT stimulates different signaling pathways that are downstream of activated tyrosine kinases and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, hence functions as an important target for anti-cancer drugs. OBJECTIVE In this review article, we have interpreted the role of AKT signaling pathway in cancer and the natural inhibitory effect of Thymoquinone (TQ) in AKT and its possible mechanisms. METHOD We have collected the updated information and data on AKT, its role in cancer and the inhibitory effect of TQ in AKT signaling pathway from Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Elsevier, Scopus, and many more. RESULTS Many drugs are already developed, which can target AKT, but very few among them have passed clinical trials. TQ is a natural compound, mainly found in black cumin, which has been found to have potential anti-cancer activities. TQ targets numerous signaling pathways, including AKT, in different cancers. In fact, many studies revealed that AKT is one of the major targets of TQ. The preclinical success of TQ suggests its clinical studies on cancer. CONCLUSION This review article summarizes the role of AKT in carcinogenesis, its potent inhibitors in clinical trials, and how TQ acts as an inhibitor of AKT and TQ's future as a cancer therapeutic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Junaid
- Molecular Modeling Drug-design and Discovery Laboratory, Pharmacology Research Division, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Yeasmin Akter
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science & Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | | | - Mousumi Tania
- Division of Molecular Cancer, Red Green Research Center, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Asaduzzaman Khan
- The research center for preclinical medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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PI3K/AKT pathway as a key link modulates the multidrug resistance of cancers. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:797. [PMID: 32973135 PMCID: PMC7515865 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02998-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 366] [Impact Index Per Article: 91.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the dominant challenge in the failure of chemotherapy in cancers. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) is a lipid kinase that spreads intracellular signal cascades and regulates a variety of cellular processes. PI3Ks are considered significant causes of chemoresistance in cancer therapy. Protein kinase B (AKT) is also a significant downstream effecter of PI3K signaling, and it modulates several pathways, including inhibition of apoptosis, stimulation of cell growth, and modulation of cellular metabolism. This review highlights the aberrant activation of PI3K/AKT as a key link that modulates MDR. We summarize the regulation of numerous major targets correlated with the PI3K/AKT pathway, which is further related to MDR, including the expression of apoptosis-related protein, ABC transport and glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), synergism with nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and the regulation of glycolysis.
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Shen D, Zhu L, Liu Y, Peng Y, Lan M, Fang K, Guo Y. Efficacy evaluation and mechanism study on inhibition of breast cancer cell growth by multimodal targeted nanobubbles carrying AMD070 and ICG. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:245102. [PMID: 32155591 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab7e73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
To construct targeted nanobubbles carrying both small-molecule CXCR4 antagonist AMD070 and light-absorbing material indocyanine green (ICG), and to study their in vitro multimodal imaging, as well as their mechanism and efficacy of inhibition of breast cancer cell growth. Nanobubbles carrying AMD070 and ICG (ICG-TNBs) were constructed by carbodiimide reaction and mechanical oscillation. The physical characteristics and in vitro multimodal imaging were determined. The binding potential of ICG-TNBs to human breast cancer cells were observed by laser confocal microscopy. CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to analyze the role of ICG-TNBs + US in inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis of tumor cells. Flow cytometry and Western blotting are used to analyse the ROS generation and molecular mechanisms. ICG-TNBs had a particle size of 497.0 ± 29.2 nm and a Zeta potential of -8.05 ± 0.73 mV. In vitro multimodal imaging showed that the image signal intensity of ICG-TNBs increased with concentration. Targeted binding assay confirmed that ICG-TNBs could specifically bind to MCF-7 cells (CXCR4 positive), but not to MDA-MB-468 cells (CXCR4 negative). CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis showed that ICG-TNBs + US could significantly inhibit the growth of MCF-7 breast cancer cells and promote their apoptosis. Flow cytometry and Western blotting showed that ICG-TNBs + US could significantly raise generation of ROS, reduce the expression of CXCR4, inhibit phosphorylation of Akt, and increase the expression of Caspase3 and Cleaved-caspase3. This indicated that ICG-TNBs could effectively inhibit and block the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway, thus leading to the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. ICG-TNBs can specifically bind to CXCR4 positive breast cancer cells, furthermore inhibit growth and promote apoptosis of breast cancer cells combined with ultrasonic irradiation by blocking the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway. This study introduces a novel concept, method and mechanism for integration of targeted diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daijia Shen
- Department of Ultrasound, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing 400038, People's Republic of China
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