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Chakraborty S, Nandi P, Mishra J, Niharika, Roy A, Manna S, Baral T, Mishra P, Mishra PK, Patra SK. Molecular mechanisms in regulation of autophagy and apoptosis in view of epigenetic regulation of genes and involvement of liquid-liquid phase separation. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216779. [PMID: 38458592 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Cellular physiology is critically regulated by multiple signaling nexuses, among which cell death mechanisms play crucial roles in controlling the homeostatic landscape at the tissue level within an organism. Apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death, can be induced by external and internal stimuli directing the cells to commit suicide in unfavourable conditions. In contrast, stress conditions like nutrient deprivation, infection and hypoxia trigger autophagy, which is lysosome-mediated processing of damaged cellular organelle for recycling of the degraded products, including amino acids. Apparently, apoptosis and autophagy both are catabolic and tumor-suppressive pathways; apoptosis is essential during development and cancer cell death, while autophagy promotes cell survival under stress. Moreover, autophagy plays dual role during cancer development and progression by facilitating the survival of cancer cells under stressed conditions and inducing death in extreme adversity. Despite having two different molecular mechanisms, both apoptosis and autophagy are interconnected by several crosslinking intermediates. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, post-translational modification of histone tails, and miRNA play a pivotal role in regulating genes involved in both autophagy and apoptosis. Both autophagic and apoptotic genes can undergo various epigenetic modifications and promote or inhibit these processes under normal and cancerous conditions. Epigenetic modifiers are uniquely important in controlling the signaling pathways regulating autophagy and apoptosis. Therefore, these epigenetic modifiers of both autophagic and apoptotic genes can act as novel therapeutic targets against cancers. Additionally, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) also modulates the aggregation of misfolded proteins and provokes autophagy in the cytosolic environment. This review deals with the molecular mechanisms of both autophagy and apoptosis including crosstalk between them; emphasizing epigenetic regulation, involvement of LLPS therein, and possible therapeutic approaches against cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhajit Chakraborty
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Piyasa Nandi
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Jagdish Mishra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Niharika
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Ankan Roy
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Soumen Manna
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Tirthankar Baral
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Prahallad Mishra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Pradyumna Kumar Mishra
- Department of Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bypass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal, 462 030, MP, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India.
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Richard SA. The pivotal role of irradiation-induced apoptosis in the pathogenesis and therapy of medulloblastoma. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2048. [PMID: 38599791 PMCID: PMC11006592 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma (MB) is a rare primitive neuroectodermal tumors originating from the cerebellum. MB is the most common malignant primary brain tumor of childhood. MB originates from neural precursor cells in distinctive regions of the rhombic lip, and their maturation occurs in the cerebellum or the brain stem during embryonal development. Also, apoptosis is a programmed cell death associated with numerous physiological as well as pathological regulations. RECENT FINDINGS Irradiation (IR)-induce apoptosis triggers cell death, with or without intervening mitosis within a few hours of IR and these share different morphologic alteration such as, loss of normal nuclear structure as well as degradation of DNA. Moreover, MB is strikingly sensitive to DNA-damaging therapies and the role of apoptosis a key treatment modality. Furthermore, in MB, the apoptotic pathways are made up of several triggers, modulators, as well as effectors. Notably, IR-induced apoptotic mechanisms in MB therapy are very complex and they either induce radiosensitivity or inhibit radioresistance leading to potential effective treatment strategies for MB. CONCLUSION This review explicitly explores the pivotal roles of IR-induced apoptosis in the pathogenesis and therapy of MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seidu A. Richard
- Department of MedicinePrincefield UniversityHoGhana
- Institute of Neuroscience, Third Affiliated HospitalZhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
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3
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Irfan M, Javed Z, Khan K, Khan N, Docea AO, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J, Cho WC. Apoptosis evasion via long non-coding RNAs in colorectal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:280. [PMID: 36076273 PMCID: PMC9461221 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02695-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) is a novel and diverse class of regulatory transcripts that are frequently dysregulated in numerous tumor types. LncRNAs are involved in a complicated molecular network, regulating gene expression, and modulating diverse cellular activities in different cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). Evidence indicates that lncRNAs can be used as a potential biomarker for the prognosis and diagnosis of CRC as they are aberrantly expressed in CRC cells. The high expression or silencing of lncRNAs is associated with cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, chemoresistance and apoptosis in CRC. LncRNAs exert both pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic functions in CRC. The expression of some oncogene lncRNAs is upregulated which leads to the inhibition of apoptotic pathways, similarly, the tumor suppressor lncRNAs are downregulated in CRC. In this review, we describe the function and mechanisms of lncRNAs to regulate the expression of genes that are involved directly or indirectly in controlling cellular apoptosis in CRC. Furthermore, we also discussed the different apoptotic pathways in normal cells and the mechanisms by which CRC evade apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Irfan
- Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zeeshan Javed
- Office for Research Innovation and Commercialization, Lahore Garrison University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Khushbukhat Khan
- Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Naila Khan
- Atta-Ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
| | | | - William C Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Fitzgerald MC, O’Halloran PJ, Connolly NMC, Murphy BM. Targeting the apoptosis pathway to treat tumours of the paediatric nervous system. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:460. [PMID: 35568716 PMCID: PMC9107479 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04900-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
New, more effective therapeutics are required for the treatment of paediatric cancers. Current treatment protocols of cytotoxic treatments including chemotherapy trigger cancer-cell death by engaging the apoptosis pathway, and chemotherapy efficacy is frequently impeded by apoptosis dysregulation. Apoptosis dysregulation, through genetic or epigenetic mechanisms, is a feature of many cancer types, and contributes to reduced treatment response, disease progression and ultimately treatment resistance. Novel approaches are required to overcome dysregulated apoptosis signalling, increase the efficacy of cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes. Here, we provide an insight into current knowledge of how the apoptosis pathway is dysregulated in paediatric nervous system tumours, with a focus on TRAIL receptors, the BCL-2 proteins and the IAP family, and highlight preclinical evidence demonstrating that pharmacological manipulation of the apoptosis pathway can restore apoptosis signalling and sensitise cancer cells to treatment. Finally, we discuss the potential clinical implications of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claire Fitzgerald
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland
| | - Philip J. O’Halloran
- grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland ,grid.415490.d0000 0001 2177 007XDepartment of Neurosurgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Niamh M. C. Connolly
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland
| | - Brona M. Murphy
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland ,grid.417322.10000 0004 0516 3853National Children’s Research Centre at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin, D12 N512 Ireland ,grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 31A York Street, Dublin, D02 YN77 Ireland
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Ozyerli-Goknar E, Bagci-Onder T. Epigenetic Deregulation of Apoptosis in Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3210. [PMID: 34199020 PMCID: PMC8267644 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells possess the ability to evade apoptosis. Genetic alterations through mutations in key genes of the apoptotic signaling pathway represent a major adaptive mechanism of apoptosis evasion. In parallel, epigenetic changes via aberrant modifications of DNA and histones to regulate the expression of pro- and antiapoptotic signal mediators represent a major complementary mechanism in apoptosis regulation and therapy response. Most epigenetic changes are governed by the activity of chromatin modifying enzymes that add, remove, or recognize different marks on histones and DNA. Here, we discuss how apoptosis signaling components are deregulated at epigenetic levels, particularly focusing on the roles of chromatin-modifying enzymes in this process. We also review the advances in cancer therapies with epigenetic drugs such as DNMT, HMT, HDAC, and BET inhibitors, as well as their effects on apoptosis modulation in cancer cells. Rewiring the epigenome by drug interventions can provide therapeutic advantage for various cancers by reverting therapy resistance and leading cancer cells to undergo apoptotic cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Ozyerli-Goknar
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Tugba Bagci-Onder
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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Alshawli AS, Wurdak H, Wood IC, Ladbury JE. Histone deacetylase inhibitors induce medulloblastoma cell death independent of HDACs recruited in REST repression complexes. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1429. [PMID: 32720471 PMCID: PMC7549561 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repressor element 1-silencing transcription factor (REST) acts as a transcriptional repressor by recruiting several chromatin modifiers, including histone deacetylase (HDAC). Elevated REST expression in medulloblastoma has been associated with tumor progression nevertheless, the tumor shows high sensitivity to HDAC inhibitors (HDACi). However, the functional implications of REST and its requirement for HDACi-induced anti-cancer effects are not well understood. METHODS In this study, the expression of REST was evaluated across the medulloblastoma subgroups and subtypes using published gene expression data. Further, the expression of REST was modulated using the CRISPR/Cas9 knockout and shRNA knockdown in the Daoy medulloblastoma cell line. RESULTS The results of this study showed that the expression of REST is elevated in most medulloblastoma subgroups compared to the non-cancerous cerebellum. Blocking of REST expression resulted in increasing the expression of REST-regulated genes, a moderate decrease in the fraction of the cells in the S-phase, and reducing the cells' migration ability. However, REST deficiency did not lead to a marked decrease in the Daoy cell viability and sensitivity to HDACi. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that REST is not essential for sustaining the proliferation/viability of the Daoy cells. It also revealed that the anti-proliferative effect of HDACi is independent of REST expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulelah S. Alshawli
- School of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of Biological SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Heiko Wurdak
- Leeds Institute of Cancer and PathologyUniversity of LeedsSt James's University HospitalLeedsUK
| | - Ian C. Wood
- School of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of Biological SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - John E. Ladbury
- School of Molecular and Cellular BiologyFaculty of Biological SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
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Elmallah MIY, Micheau O. Epigenetic Regulation of TRAIL Signaling: Implication for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060850. [PMID: 31248188 PMCID: PMC6627638 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the main characteristics of carcinogenesis relies on genetic alterations in DNA and epigenetic changes in histone and non-histone proteins. At the chromatin level, gene expression is tightly controlled by DNA methyl transferases, histone acetyltransferases (HATs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), and acetyl-binding proteins. In particular, the expression level and function of several tumor suppressor genes, or oncogenes such as c-Myc, p53 or TRAIL, have been found to be regulated by acetylation. For example, HATs are a group of enzymes, which are responsible for the acetylation of histone proteins, resulting in chromatin relaxation and transcriptional activation, whereas HDACs by deacetylating histones lead to chromatin compaction and the subsequent transcriptional repression of tumor suppressor genes. Direct acetylation of suppressor genes or oncogenes can affect their stability or function. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have thus been developed as a promising therapeutic target in oncology. While these inhibitors display anticancer properties in preclinical models, and despite the fact that some of them have been approved by the FDA, HDACi still have limited therapeutic efficacy in clinical terms. Nonetheless, combined with a wide range of structurally and functionally diverse chemical compounds or immune therapies, HDACi have been reported to work in synergy to induce tumor regression. In this review, the role of HDACs in cancer etiology and recent advances in the development of HDACi will be presented and put into perspective as potential drugs synergizing with TRAIL's pro-apoptotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed I Y Elmallah
- INSERM, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, LNC UMR1231, F-21079 Dijon, France.
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Ain Helwan 11795 Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Olivier Micheau
- INSERM, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, LNC UMR1231, F-21079 Dijon, France.
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p53 at the Crossroads between Different Types of HDAC Inhibitor-Mediated Cancer Cell Death. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102415. [PMID: 31096697 PMCID: PMC6567317 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex genetic and epigenetic-based disease that has developed an armada of mechanisms to escape cell death. The deregulation of apoptosis and autophagy, which are basic processes essential for normal cellular activity, are commonly encountered during the development of human tumors. In order to assist the cancer cell in defeating the imbalance between cell growth and cell death, histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have been employed to reverse epigenetically deregulated gene expression caused by aberrant post-translational protein modifications. These interfere with histone acetyltransferase- and deacetylase-mediated acetylation of both histone and non-histone proteins, and thereby exert a wide array of HDACi-stimulated cytotoxic effects. Key determinants of HDACi lethality that interfere with cellular growth in a multitude of tumor cells are apoptosis and autophagy, which are either mutually exclusive or activated in combination. Here, we compile known molecular signals and pathways involved in the HDACi-triggered induction of apoptosis and autophagy. Currently, the factors that determine the mode of HDACi-elicited cell death are mostly unclear. Correspondingly, we also summarized as yet established intertwined mechanisms, in particular with respect to the oncogenic tumor suppressor protein p53, that drive the interplay between apoptosis and autophagy in response to HDACi. In this context, we also note the significance to determine the presence of functional p53 protein levels in the cancer cell. The confirmation of the context-dependent function of autophagy will pave the way to improve the benefit from HDACi-mediated cancer treatment.
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Epigenetic Targeting of Autophagy via HDAC Inhibition in Tumor Cells: Role of p53. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123952. [PMID: 30544838 PMCID: PMC6321134 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor development and progression is the consequence of genetic as well as epigenetic alterations of the cell. As part of the epigenetic regulatory system, histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and deacetylases (HDACs) drive the modification of histone as well as non-histone proteins. Derailed acetylation-mediated gene expression in cancer due to a delicate imbalance in HDAC expression can be reversed by histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). Histone deacetylase inhibitors have far-reaching anticancer activities that include the induction of cell cycle arrest, the inhibition of angiogenesis, immunomodulatory responses, the inhibition of stress responses, increased generation of oxidative stress, activation of apoptosis, autophagy eliciting cell death, and even the regulation of non-coding RNA expression in malignant tumor cells. However, it remains an ongoing issue how tumor cells determine to respond to HDACi treatment by preferentially undergoing apoptosis or autophagy. In this review, we summarize HDACi-mediated mechanisms of action, particularly with respect to the induction of cell death. There is a keen interest in assessing suitable molecular factors allowing a prognosis of HDACi-mediated treatment. Addressing the results of our recent study, we highlight the role of p53 as a molecular switch driving HDACi-mediated cellular responses towards one of both types of cell death. These findings underline the importance to determine the mutational status of p53 for an effective outcome in HDACi-mediated tumor therapy.
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Shi Y, Pang X, Wang J, Liu G. NanoTRAIL-Oncology: A Strategic Approach in Cancer Research and Therapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2018. [PMID: 29527836 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
TRAIL is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily that can largely trigger apoptosis in a wide variety of cancer cells, but not in normal cells. However, insufficient exposure to cancer tissues or cells and drug resistance has severely impeded the clinical application of TRAIL. Recently, nanobiotechnology has brought about a revolution in advanced drug delivery for enhanced anticancer therapy using TRAIL. With the help of materials science, immunology, genetic engineering, and protein engineering, substantial progress is made by expressing fusion proteins with TRAIL, engineering TRAIL on biological membranes, and loading TRAIL into functional nanocarriers or conjugating it onto their surfaces. Thus, the nanoparticle-based TRAIL (nanoTRAIL) opens up intriguing opportunities for efficient and safe bioapplications. In this review, the mechanisms of action and biological function of TRAIL, as well as the current status of TRAIL treatment, are comprehensively discussed. The application of functional nanotechnology combined with TRAIL in cancer therapy is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesi Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics and Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine; School of Public Health; Xiamen University; Xiamen 361102 China
| | - Xin Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics and Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine; School of Public Health; Xiamen University; Xiamen 361102 China
| | - Junqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics and Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine; School of Public Health; Xiamen University; Xiamen 361102 China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Guangxi Biological Medicine and the; Medical and Scientific Research Center; Guangxi Medical University; Nanning 530021 China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics and Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine; School of Public Health; Xiamen University; Xiamen 361102 China
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Naimi A, Movassaghpour AA, Hagh MF, Talebi M, Entezari A, Jadidi-Niaragh F, Solali S. TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) as the potential therapeutic target in hematological malignancies. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:566-576. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.12.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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KDM2B, an H3K36-specific demethylase, regulates apoptotic response of GBM cells to TRAIL. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2897. [PMID: 28661478 PMCID: PMC5520939 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) can selectively kill tumor cells. TRAIL resistance in cancers is associated with aberrant expression of the key components of the apoptotic program. However, how these components are regulated at the epigenetic level is not understood. In this study, we investigated novel epigenetic mechanisms regulating TRAIL response in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells by a short-hairpin RNA loss-of-function screen. We interrogated 48 genes in DNA and histone modification pathways and identified KDM2B, an H3K36-specific demethylase, as a novel regulator of TRAIL response. Accordingly, silencing of KDM2B significantly enhanced TRAIL sensitivity, the activation of caspase-8, -3 and -7 and PARP cleavage. KDM2B knockdown also accelerated the apoptosis, as revealed by live-cell imaging experiments. To decipher the downstream molecular pathways regulated by KDM2B, levels of apoptosis-related genes were examined by RNA-sequencing upon KDM2B loss, which revealed derepression of proapoptotic genes Harakiri (HRK), caspase-7 and death receptor 4 (DR4) and repression of antiapoptotic genes. The apoptosis phenotype was partly dependent on HRK upregulation, as HRK knockdown significantly abrogated the sensitization. KDM2B-silenced tumors exhibited slower growth in vivo. Taken together, our findings suggest a novel mechanism, where the key apoptosis components are under epigenetic control of KDM2B in GBM cells.
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Ashour AE, Ahmed AF, Kumar A, Zoheir KMA, Aboul-Soud MA, Ahmad SF, Attia SM, Abd-Allah ARA, Cheryan VT, Rishi AK. Thymoquinone inhibits growth of human medulloblastoma cells by inducing oxidative stress and caspase-dependent apoptosis while suppressing NF-κB signaling and IL-8 expression. Mol Cell Biochem 2016; 416:141-55. [PMID: 27084536 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-016-2703-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor of childhood. The transcription factor NF-κB is overexpressed in human MB and is a critical factor for MB tumor growth. NF-κB is known to regulate the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), the chemokine that enhances cancer cell growth and resistance to chemotherapy. We have recently shown that thymoquinone (TQ) suppresses growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in part by inhibiting NF-κB signaling. Here we sought to extend these studies in MB cells and show that TQ suppresses growth of MB cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, causes G2M cell cycle arrest, and induces apoptosis. TQ significantly increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while pretreatment of MB cells with the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) abrogated TQ-induced cell death and apoptosis, suggesting that TQ-induced cell death and apoptosis are oxidative stress-mediated. TQ inhibitory effects were associated with inhibition of NF-κB and altered expression of its downstream effectors IL-8 and its receptors, the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, X-IAP, and FLIP, as well as the pro-apoptotic TRAIL-R1, caspase-8, caspase-9, Bcl-xS, and cytochrome c. TQ-triggered apoptosis was substantiated by up-regulation of the executioner caspase-3 and caspase-7, as well as cleavage of the death substrate poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase. Interestingly, pretreatment of MB cells with NAC or the pan-caspase inhibitor zVAD-fmk abrogated TQ-induced apoptosis, loss of cyclin B1 and NF-κB activity, suggesting that these TQ-mediated effects are oxidative stress- and caspase-dependent. These findings reveal that TQ induces both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis in MB cells, and suggest its potential usefulness in the treatment of MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkader E Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Atallah F Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Vitiligo Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Khairy M A Zoheir
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Cell Biology Department, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mourad A Aboul-Soud
- Medical and Molecular Genetics Research Chair, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Adel R A Abd-Allah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Vino T Cheryan
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Arun K Rishi
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA
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Gopalakrishnan V, Tao RH, Dobson T, Brugmann W, Khatua S. Medulloblastoma development: tumor biology informs treatment decisions. CNS Oncol 2015; 4:79-89. [PMID: 25768332 DOI: 10.2217/cns.14.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. Current treatments including surgery, craniospinal radiation and high-dose chemotherapy have led to improvement in survival. However, the risk for recurrence as well as significant long-term neurocognitive and endocrine sequelae associated with current treatment modalities underscore the urgent need for novel tumor-specific, normal brain-sparing therapies. It has also provided the impetus for research focused on providing a better understanding of medulloblastoma biology. The expectation is that such studies will lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets and eventually to an increase in personalized treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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15
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Cacan E, Greer SF, Garnett-Benson C. Radiation-induced modulation of immunogenic genes in tumor cells is regulated by both histone deacetylases and DNA methyltransferases. Int J Oncol 2015; 47:2264-75. [PMID: 26458736 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation treatment is a pivotal therapy for several cancer types, including colorectal cancer. It has been shown that sublethal doses of radiation modulate gene expression, making tumor cells more susceptible to T-cell-mediated immune attack. We have recently shown that low dose radiation enhances expression of multiple death receptors (Fas, DR4 and DR5) and co-stimulatory molecules (4-1BBL and OX-40L) in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells; however, it is unclear how ionizing radiation (IR) enhances expression of these molecules mechanistically. In the present study, we elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which radiation controls expression of these molecules in CRC. Here we report that, enhanced expression of these genes following radiation treatment of CRC cells is due, in part, to changes in DNA methylation and histone acetylation. We observed that radiation (5 Gy) significantly increased histone acetylation at the promoter regions of 4-1BBL, Fas and DR5 but not OX-40L. However, radiation did not induce changes in the global levels of acetylated histone H3 suggesting specificity of IR-induced changes. Furthermore, evaluation of epigenetic controlling enzymes revealed that IR did not alter overall cellular levels of HDACs (HDAC1, HDAC2 or HDAC3) or DNMTs (DNMT1, DNMT3a, or DNMT3b). Instead, radiation decreased binding of HDAC2 and HDAC3 at the promoter regions of Fas and 4-1BBL, respectively. Radiation also resulted in reduced DNMT1 at both the Fas and 4-1BBL promoter regions but not a control gene. We conclude that single dose radiation can influence the expression of immune response relevant genes in colorectal tumor cells by altering the binding of epigenetic enzymes, and modulating histone acetylation, at specific gene promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ercan Cacan
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
| | - Susanna F Greer
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
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Trivedi R, Mishra DP. Trailing TRAIL Resistance: Novel Targets for TRAIL Sensitization in Cancer Cells. Front Oncol 2015; 5:69. [PMID: 25883904 PMCID: PMC4382980 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs is the major hindrance in the successful cancer therapy. The tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family of ligands, which initiates apoptosis in cancer cells through interaction with the death receptors DR4 and DR5. TRAIL is perceived as an attractive chemotherapeutic agent as it specifically targets cancer cells while sparing the normal cells. However, TRAIL therapy has a major limitation as a large number of the cancer develop resistance toward TRAIL and escape from the destruction by the immune system. Therefore, elucidation of the molecular targets and signaling pathways responsible for TRAIL resistance is imperative for devising effective therapeutic strategies for TRAIL resistant cancers. Although, various molecular targets leading to TRAIL resistance are well-studied, recent studies have implicated that the contribution of some key cellular processes toward TRAIL resistance need to be fully elucidated. These processes primarily include aberrant protein synthesis, protein misfolding, ubiquitin regulated death receptor expression, metabolic pathways, epigenetic deregulation, and metastasis. Novel synthetic/natural compounds that could inhibit these defective cellular processes may restore the TRAIL sensitivity and combination therapies with such compounds may resensitize TRAIL resistant cancer cells toward TRAIL-induced apoptosis. In this review, we have summarized the key cellular processes associated with TRAIL resistance and their status as therapeutic targets for novel TRAIL-sensitizing agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachana Trivedi
- Cell Death Research Laboratory, Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute , Lucknow , India
| | - Durga Prasad Mishra
- Cell Death Research Laboratory, Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute , Lucknow , India
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Parbin S, Kar S, Shilpi A, Sengupta D, Deb M, Rath SK, Patra SK. Histone deacetylases: a saga of perturbed acetylation homeostasis in cancer. J Histochem Cytochem 2014; 62:11-33. [PMID: 24051359 PMCID: PMC3873803 DOI: 10.1369/0022155413506582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the current era of genomic medicine, diseases are identified as manifestations of anomalous patterns of gene expression. Cancer is the principal example among such maladies. Although remarkable progress has been achieved in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the genesis and progression of cancer, its epigenetic regulation, particularly histone deacetylation, demands further studies. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are one of the key players in the gene expression regulation network in cancer because of their repressive role on tumor suppressor genes. Higher expression and function of deacetylases disrupt the finely tuned acetylation homeostasis in both histone and non-histone target proteins. This brings about alterations in the genes implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and other cellular processes. Moreover, the reversible nature of epigenetic modulation by HDACs makes them attractive targets for cancer remedy. This review summarizes the current knowledge of HDACs in tumorigenesis and tumor progression as well as their contribution to the hallmarks of cancer. The present report also describes briefly various assays to detect histone deacetylase activity and discusses the potential role of histone deacetylase inhibitors as emerging epigenetic drugs to cure cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabnam Parbin
- Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India (SP, SK, AS, DS, SKR, SKP)
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18
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Spyropoulou A, Piperi C, Adamopoulos C, Papavassiliou AG. Deregulated chromatin remodeling in the pathobiology of brain tumors. Neuromolecular Med 2013; 15:1-24. [PMID: 23114751 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-012-8205-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors encompass a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors with variable histopathology, aggressiveness, clinical outcome and prognosis. Current gene expression profiling studies indicate interplay of genetic and epigenetic alterations in their pathobiology. A central molecular event underlying epigenetics is the alteration of chromatin structure by post-translational modifications of DNA and histones as well as nucleosome repositioning. Dynamic remodeling of the fundamental nucleosomal structure of chromatin or covalent histone marks located in core histones regulate main cellular processes including DNA methylation, replication, DNA-damage repair as well as gene expression. Deregulation of these processes has been linked to tumor suppressor gene silencing, cancer initiation and progression. The reversible nature of deregulated chromatin structure by DNA methylation and histone deacetylation inhibitors, leading to re-expression of tumor suppressor genes, makes chromatin-remodeling pathways as promising therapeutic targets. In fact, a considerable number of these inhibitors are being tested today either alone or in combination with other agents or conventional treatments in the management of brain tumors with considerable success. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms underpinning deregulated chromatin remodeling in brain tumors, discuss their potential clinical implications and highlight the advances toward new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Spyropoulou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece
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Das CM, Taylor P, Gireud M, Singh A, Lee D, Fuller G, Ji L, Fangusaro J, Rajaram V, Goldman S, Eberhart C, Gopalakrishnan V. The deubiquitylase USP37 links REST to the control of p27 stability and cell proliferation. Oncogene 2013; 32:1691-701. [PMID: 22665064 PMCID: PMC3435483 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST) is a repressor of neuronal differentiation and its elevated expression in neural cells blocks neuronal differentiation. In this study, we demonstrate a role for REST in the control of proliferation of medulloblastoma cells. REST expression decreased the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)NIB/p27, a CDK inhibitor and a brake of cell proliferation in these cells. The reciprocal relationship between REST and p27 was validated in human tumor samples. REST knockdown in medulloblastoma cells derepessed a novel REST target gene encoding the deubiquitylase ubiquitin (Ub)-specific peptidase 37 (USP37). Ectopically expressed wild-type USP37 formed a complex with p27, promoted its deubiquitination and stabilization and blocked cell proliferation. Knockdown of REST and USP37 prevented p27 stabilization and blocked the diminution in proliferative potential that normally accompanied REST loss. Unexpectedly, wild-type USP37 expression also induced the expression of REST-target neuronal differentiation genes even though REST levels were unaffected. In contrast, a mutant of USP37 carrying a site-directed change in a conserved cysteine failed to rescue REST-mediated p27 destabilization, maintenance of cell proliferation and blockade to neuronal differentiation. Consistent with these findings, a significant correlation between USP37 and p27 was observed in patient tumors. Collectively, these findings provide a novel connection between REST and the proteasomal machinery in the control of p27 and cell proliferation in medulloblastoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra M. Das
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Pete Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Monica Gireud
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Akanksha Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Dean Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Greg Fuller
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Lingyun Ji
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Veena Rajaram
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Stewart Goldman
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Charles Eberhart
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Brain Tumor Center, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Centers for Cancer Epigenetics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Program in Neuroscience, The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
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20
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Nesterenko I, Wanningen S, Bagci-Onder T, Anderegg M, Shah K. Evaluating the effect of therapeutic stem cells on TRAIL resistant and sensitive medulloblastomas. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49219. [PMID: 23145127 PMCID: PMC3492275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are emerging as novel cell-based delivery agents; however, a thorough investigation addressing their therapeutic potential in medulloblastomas (MB) has not been explored to date. In this study, we engineered human MSC to express a potent and secretable variant of a tumor specific agent, tumor necrosis factor-apoptosis-inducing ligand (S-TRAIL) and assessed the ability of MSC-S-TRAIL mediated MB killing alone or in combination with a small molecule inhibitor of histone-deacetylase, MS-275, in TRAIL-sensitive and -resistant MB in vitro and in vivo. We show that TRAIL sensitivity/resistance correlates with the expression of its cognate death receptor (DR)5 and MSC-S-TRAIL induces caspase-3 mediated apoptosis in TRAIL-sensitive MB lines. In TRAIL-resistant MB, we show upregulation of DR4/5 levels when pre-treated with MS-275 and a subsequent sensitization to MSC-S-TRAIL mediated apoptosis. Using intracranially implanted MB and MSC lines engineered with different combinations of fluorescent and bioluminescent proteins, we show that MSC-S-TRAIL has significant anti-tumor effects in mice bearing TRAIL-sensitive and MS-275 pre-treated TRAIL-resistant MBs. To our knowledge, this is the first study that explores the use of human MSC as MB-targeting therapeutic-vehicles in vivo in TRAIL-sensitive and resistant tumors, and has implications for developing effective therapies for patients with medulloblastomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Nesterenko
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Simone Wanningen
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Tugba Bagci-Onder
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Maarten Anderegg
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Khalid Shah
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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Taylor P, Fangusaro J, Rajaram V, Goldman S, Helenowski IB, MacDonald T, Hasselblatt M, Riedemann L, Laureano A, Cooper L, Gopalakrishnan V. REST is a novel prognostic factor and therapeutic target for medulloblastoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2012; 11:1713-1723. [PMID: 22848092 PMCID: PMC3763747 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-11-0990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a malignant pediatric brain tumor. Current treatment following patient stratification into standard and high-risk groups using clinical features has improved survival. However, a subset of patients with standard risk features have unanticipated aggressive disease, underscoring the need for a better understanding of tumor biology and the development of novel treatments. Poor differentiation, a hallmark of medulloblastomas is associated with elevated expression levels of the repressor of neuronal differentiation called repressor element 1-silencing transcription factor (REST). Here, we assessed whether elevated REST expression levels had prognostic significance and whether its pharmacologic manipulation would promote neurogenesis and block tumor cell growth. REST levels in patient tumors were measured by immunohistochemistry and stratified into negative, low/moderate- (+/++/+++), and high-REST (+++++) groups. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that patients with high-REST tumors had worse overall and event-free survival compared with patients with REST-negative or REST-low tumors. Because histone deacetylases (HDAC) are required for REST-dependent repression of neurogenesis, we evaluated a panel of HDAC inhibitors (HDACI) for their effects on growth and differentiation of established and primary REST-positive cell lines. MS-275, trichostatin-A (TSA), valproic acid (VPA), and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) upregulated expression of the REST-target neuronal differentiation gene, Syn1, suggesting a potential effect of these HDACIs on REST function. Interestingly, VPA and TSA substantially increased histone acetylation at the REST promoter and activated its transcription, whereas SAHA unexpectedly promoted its proteasomal degradation. A REST-dependent decrease in cell growth was also observed following SAHA treatment. Thus, our studies suggest that HDACIs may have therapeutic potential for patients with REST-positive tumors. This warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pete Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University and the Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Veena Rajaram
- Department of Pathology, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University and the Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stewart Goldman
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University and the Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Irene B. Helenowski
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University and the Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tobey MacDonald
- Department of Pediatrics, Winship Cancer Institute. Emory University. Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Lars Riedemann
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, Munster, Germany
| | - Alvaro Laureano
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Laurence Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vidya Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Real-time imaging of the dynamics of death receptors and therapeutics that overcome TRAIL resistance in tumors. Oncogene 2012; 32:2818-27. [PMID: 22824792 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis specifically in tumor cells and its efficacy has been tested in pre-clinical models by delivering it systemically as a purified ligand or via engineered stem cells (SC). However, about 50% of tumor lines are resistant to TRAIL and overcoming TRAIL resistance in aggressive tumors, such as glioblastoma-multiforme (GBM), and understanding the molecular dynamics of TRAIL-based combination therapies are critical to broadly use TRAIL as a therapeutic agent. In this study, we developed death receptor (DR)4/5-reporters that offer an imaging-based platform to identify agents that act in concert with a potent, secretable variant of TRAIL (S-TRAIL) by monitoring changes in DR4/5 expression. Utilizing these reporters, we show a differential regulation of DR4/5 when exposed to a panel of clinically relevant agents. A histone deacetylase inhibitor, MS-275, resulted in upregulation of DR4/5 in all GBM cell lines, and these changes could be followed in real time both in vitro and in vivo in mice bearing tumors and they correlated with increased TRAIL sensitivity. To further assess the dynamics of combinatorial strategies that overcome resistance of tumors to SC released S-TRAIL, we also engineered tumor cells to express live-cell caspase-reporters and SCs to express S-TRAIL. Utilizing DR4/5 and caspase reporters in parallel, we show that MS-275 sensitizes TRAIL-resistant GBM cells to stem cell (SC) delivered S-TRAIL by changing the time-to-death in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of a combination of real-time reporters of TRAIL-induced apoptosis pathway in evaluating the efficacy of SC-TRAIL-based therapeutics and may have implications in targeting a broad range of cancers.
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Skiriute D, Vaitkiene P, Saferis V, Asmoniene V, Skauminas K, Deltuva VP, Tamasauskas A. MGMT, GATA6, CD81, DR4, and CASP8 gene promoter methylation in glioblastoma. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:218. [PMID: 22672670 PMCID: PMC3404983 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylation of promoter region is the major mechanism affecting gene expression in tumors. Recent methylome studies of brain tumors revealed a list of new epigenetically modified genes. Our aim was to study promoter methylation of newly identified epigenetically silenced genes together with already known epigenetic markers and evaluate its separate and concomitant role in glioblastoma genesis and patient outcome. METHODS The methylation status of MGMT, CD81, GATA6, DR4, and CASP8 in 76 patients with primary glioblastomas was investigated. Methylation-specific PCR reaction was performed using bisulfite treated DNA. Evaluating glioblastoma patient survival time after operation, patient data and gene methylation effect on survival was estimated using survival analysis. RESULTS The overwhelming majority (97.3%) of tumors were methylated in at least one of five genes tested. In glioblastoma specimens gene methylation was observed as follows: MGMT in 51.3%, GATA6 in 68.4%, CD81 in 46.1%, DR4 in 41.3% and CASP8 in 56.8% of tumors. Methylation of MGMT was associated with younger patient age (p < 0.05), while CASP8 with older (p < 0.01). MGMT methylation was significantly more frequent event in patient group who survived longer than 36 months after operation (p < 0.05), while methylation of CASP8 was more frequent in patients who survived shorter than 36 months (p < 0.05). Cox regression analysis showed patient age, treatment, MGMT, GATA6 and CASP8 as independent predictors for glioblastoma patient outcome (p < 0.05). MGMT and GATA6 were independent predictors for patient survival in younger patients' group, while there were no significant associations observed in older patients' group when adjusted for therapy. CONCLUSIONS High methylation frequency of tested genes shows heterogeneity of glioblastoma epigenome and the importance of MGMT, GATA6 and CASP8 genes methylation in glioblastoma patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daina Skiriute
- Laboratory of Neurooncology and Genetics, Neuroscience Institute, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu str, 4, Kaunas, LT, 50009, Lithuania.
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Sonnemann J, Trommer N, Becker S, Wittig S, Grauel D, Palani CD, Beck JF. Histone deacetylase inhibitor-mediated sensitization to TRAIL-induced apoptosis in childhood malignancies is not associated with upregulation of TRAIL receptor expression, but with potentiated caspase-8 activation. Cancer Biol Ther 2012; 13:417-24. [PMID: 22313685 DOI: 10.4161/cbt.19293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has great potential for the treatment of cancer because it targets tumor cells while sparing normal cells. Several cancers, however, fail to respond to TRAIL's antineoplastic effects. These resistant tumors require cotreatment with sensitizing agents in order for TRAIL to exert anticancer activity. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have been recognized as potent TRAIL sensitizers. In searching for the determinants of TRAIL responsiveness, HDACi-mediated TRAIL sensitization has been predominantly attributed to TRAIL receptor upregulation. This explanation, however, has been challenged by a few studies. The aim of the present study was to explore the relevance of TRAIL receptor expression for HDACi-mediated TRAIL sensitization in childhood tumors, i.e., in medulloblastoma, Ewing's sarcoma and osteosarcoma. In previous studies, we had shown that TRAIL and HDACi were synergistic in inducing apoptosis in medulloblastoma and Ewing's sarcoma. In the present study, we demonstrate that HDACi cooperated with TRAIL in eliciting cell death in osteosarcoma. However, HDACi treatment did not alter or even reduced cell surface expression of TRAIL receptors in the three childhood tumors. In gaining insight into the apoptotic pathway involved in TRAIL sensitization, HDACi were found to potentiate TRAIL-induced caspase-8 activation. Taken together, our findings suggest that HDACi-mediated TRAIL sensitization is not the result of TRAIL receptor upregulation, but the result of a receptor-proximal event in childhood tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Sonnemann
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Jena University Hospital, Children's Clinic, Jena, Germany.
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25
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IFN-γ combined with targeting of XIAP leads to increased apoptosis-sensitisation of TRAIL resistant pancreatic carcinoma cells. Cancer Lett 2012; 316:168-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2011.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Bangert A, Cristofanon S, Eckhardt I, Abhari BA, Kolodziej S, Häcker S, Vellanki SHK, Lausen J, Debatin KM, Fulda S. Histone deacetylase inhibitors sensitize glioblastoma cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis by c-myc-mediated downregulation of cFLIP. Oncogene 2012; 31:4677-88. [PMID: 22266862 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common primary brain tumor with a very poor prognosis, calling for novel treatment strategies. Here, we provide first evidence that histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACI) prime glioblastoma cells for tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) -induced apoptosis at least in part by c-myc-mediated downregulation of cellular FLICE-inhibitory protein (cFLIP). Pretreatment with distinct HDACI (MS275, suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, valproic acid) significantly enhances TRAIL-induced apoptosis in several glioblastoma cell lines. Monitoring a panel of apoptosis-regulatory proteins revealed that MS275 reduces the expression of cFLIP(L) and cFLIP(S). This leads to decreased recruitment of cFLIP(L) and cFLIP(S) and increased activation of caspase-8 to the TRAIL death-inducing signaling complex, resulting in enhanced cleavage of caspase-8, -9 and -3 and caspase-dependent apoptosis. Also, MS275 promotes TRAIL-triggered processing of Bid, activation of Bax, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and release of cytochrome c. MS275-mediated downregulation of cFLIP occurs at the mRNA level independent of proteasome- or caspase-mediated degradation, and is preceded by upregulation of nuclear levels of c-myc, a transcriptional repressor of cFLIP. Notably, MS275 causes increased binding of c-myc to the cFLIP promoter and reduces cFLIP promoter activity. Indeed, knockdown of c-myc partially rescues cFLIP(L) from MS275-inferred downregulation and significantly decreases TRAIL- and MS275-induced apoptosis. Also, overexpression of cFLIP(L) or cFLIP(S) significantly reduces MS275- and TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Importantly, MS275 sensitizes primary cultured glioblastoma cells towards TRAIL and cooperates with TRAIL to reduce long-term clonogenic survival of glioblastoma cells and to suppress glioblastoma growth in vivo underscoring the clinical relevance of this approach. Thus, these findings demonstrate that HDACI represent a promising strategy to prime glioblastoma for TRAIL-induced apoptosis by targeting cFLIP.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bangert
- University Children's Hospital, Ulm, Germany
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Knipstein J, Gore L. Entinostat for treatment of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2011; 20:1455-67. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2011.613822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Singh A, Rokes C, Gireud M, Fletcher S, Baumgartner J, Fuller G, Stewart J, Zage P, Gopalakrishnan V. Retinoic acid induces REST degradation and neuronal differentiation by modulating the expression of SCF(β-TRCP) in neuroblastoma cells. Cancer 2011; 117:5189-202. [PMID: 21523764 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2011] [Revised: 02/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The repressor element-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) is a repressor of neuronal genes. Its expression is associated with poor neuronal differentiation in many neuroblastoma patient samples and cell lines. Because retinoic acid promotes neuronal differentiation, the authors postulated that it involves modulation of REST expression. METHODS The expression of REST and of an S-phase kinase-associated protein 1/cullin 1/F-box (SCF) protein complex that contains the F-box protein β-transducin repeat-containing protein (β-TRCP) (SCF(β-TRCP) ) in neuroblastoma tumor samples and cell lines was analyzed by immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. SK-N-SH and SK-N-AS cells were treated with retinoic acid and MG-132 to measure proteasomal degradation of REST by Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses. Immunoprecipitation and coimmunoprecipitation assays were done in SK-N-AS cells that were transfected either with a control plasmid or with an enhanced green fluorescent protein-SCF(β-TRCP) -expressing plasmid. RESULTS Several neuroblastoma patient samples and cell lines displayed elevated REST expression. Although, REST transcription increased upon retinoic acid treatment in SK-N-SH and SK-N-AS cells, REST protein levels declined, concomitant with the induction of neuronal differentiation, in SK-N-SH cells but not in SK-N-AS cells. MG-132 treatment countered the retinoic acid-mediated decline in REST protein. SCF(β-TRCP) , a known REST-specific E3-ligase, was poorly expressed in many neuroblastoma samples, and its expression increased upon retinoic acid treatment in SK-N-SH cells but declined in SK-N-AS cells. Ectopic expression of SCF(β-TRCP) in SK-N-AS cells promoted REST ubiquitination and degradation and neuronal differentiation. CONCLUSIONS The current results indicated that elevated transcription of REST compounded by its impaired degradation by SCF(β-TRCP) may contribute to the failure of these tumors to differentiate in response to retinoic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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29
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Schreck KC, Taylor P, Marchionni L, Gopalakrishnan V, Bar EE, Gaiano N, Eberhart CG. The Notch target Hes1 directly modulates Gli1 expression and Hedgehog signaling: a potential mechanism of therapeutic resistance. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 16:6060-70. [PMID: 21169257 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-1624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiple developmental pathways including Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt are active in malignant brain tumors such as medulloblastoma and glioblastoma (GBM). This raises the possibility that tumors might compensate for therapy directed against one pathway by upregulating a different one. We investigated whether brain tumors show resistance to therapies against Notch, and whether targeting multiple pathways simultaneously would kill brain tumor cells more effectively than monotherapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used GBM neurosphere lines to investigate the effects of a gamma-secretase inhibitor (MRK-003) on tumor growth, and chromatin immunoprecipitation to study the regulation of other genes by Notch targets. We also evaluated the effect of combined therapy with a Hedgehog inhibitor (cyclopamine) in GBM and medulloblastoma lines, and in primary human GBM cultures. RESULTS GBM cells are at least partially resistant to long-term MRK-003 treatment, despite ongoing Notch pathway suppression, and show concomitant upregulation of Wnt and Hedgehog activity. The Notch target Hes1, a repressive transcription factor, bound the Gli1 first intron, and may inhibit its expression. Similar results were observed in a melanoma-derived cell line. Targeting Notch and Hedgehog simultaneously induced apoptosis, decreased cell growth, and inhibited colony-forming ability more dramatically than monotherapy. Low-passage neurospheres isolated from freshly resected human GBMs were also highly susceptible to coinhibition of the two pathways, indicating that targeting multiple developmental pathways can be more effective than monotherapy at eliminating GBM-derived cells. CONCLUSIONS Notch may directly suppress Hedgehog via Hes1 mediated inhibition of Gli1 transcription, and targeting both pathways simultaneously may be more effective at eliminating GBMs cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karisa C Schreck
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Das CM, Zage PE, Taylor P, Aguilera D, Wolff JEA, Lee D, Gopalakrishnan V. Chromatin remodelling at the topoisomerase II-beta promoter is associated with enhanced sensitivity to etoposide in human neuroblastoma cell lines. Eur J Cancer 2011; 46:2771-80. [PMID: 20886683 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2010.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Etoposide, an inhibitor of topoisomerase II, promotes DNA damage and apoptosis of cancer cells and is a component of standard therapy for neuroblastoma. Resistance to etoposide has been observed in neural tumour cells expressing lower levels of topoisomerase II. In the present study, we have examined the contribution of epigenetic modulation of gene expression in the potentiation of etoposide-mediated cytotoxicity in neuroblastoma cells. Specifically, we studied the effects of histone deacetylase inhibition with valproic acid on topoisomerase II gene expression and apoptosis in response to etoposide. Using human neuroblastoma cell lines SK-N-AS and SK-N-SH, we show that although the combination of valproic acid and etoposide promoted a reduction in growth compared to either drug alone in both cells, the effect was substantially enhanced in SK-N-AS compared to SK-N-SH cells. An increase in histone H3 acetylation and p21 expression was observed in both cell lines, however, upregulation of topoisomerase II-beta gene expression and an increase in PARP cleavage was observed in SK-N-AS cells only. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed an increase in acetylation of histone H3 at the cognate topoisomerase II-beta gene after treatment with valproic acid in SK-N-AS cells. These results suggest a potential epigenetic mechanism of regulation of the topoisomerase II-beta gene and a possible role for its increased expression in the sensitivity of SK-N-AS neuroblastoma cells to etoposide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra M Das
- Division of Pediatrics, Children’s Cancer Hospital, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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31
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Epigenetic regulation of cell life and death decisions and deregulation in cancer. Essays Biochem 2010; 48:121-46. [PMID: 20822491 DOI: 10.1042/bse0480121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
For every cell, there is a time to live and a time to die. It is apparent that cell life and death decisions are taken by individual cells based on their interpretation of physiological or non-physiological stimuli, or their own self-assessment of internal damage or changes in their environment. Apoptosis or programmed cell death is a key regulator of physiological growth control and regulation of tissue homoeostasis. One of the most important advances in cancer research in recent years is the recognition that cell death, mostly by apoptosis, is crucially involved in the regulation of tumour formation and also critically determines treatment response. The initiation and progression of cancer, traditionally seen as a genetic disease, is now realized to involve epigenetic abnormalities along with genetic alterations. The study of epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNA expression, has revealed a plethora of events that contribute to the neoplastic phenotype through stable changes in the expression of genes critical to cell death pathways. A better understanding of the epigenetic molecular events that regulate apoptosis, together with the reversible nature of epigenetic aberrations, should contribute to the emergence of the promising field of epigenetic therapy.
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32
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Meley D, Spiller DG, White MRH, McDowell H, Pizer B, Sée V. p53-mediated delayed NF-κB activity enhances etoposide-induced cell death in medulloblastoma. Cell Death Dis 2010; 1:e41. [PMID: 21364648 PMCID: PMC3032310 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2010.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is an embryonic brain tumour that arises in the cerebellum. Using several MB cell lines, we have demonstrated that the chemotherapeutic drug etoposide induces a p53- and caspase-dependent cell death. We have observed an additional caspase-independent cell death mechanism involving delayed nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activity. The delayed induction was controlled by a p53-dependent transcription step and the production of death receptors (especially CD95/Fas). We further demonstrated that in both MB and glioblastoma (GM) cell lines, in which the p53 pathway was not functional, no p65 activation could be detected upon etoposide treatment. MB cell lines that have mutations in p53 or NF-κB are either less sensitive (NF-κB mutant) or even completely resistant (p53 mutant) to chemotherapeutic intervention. The optimal cell death was only achieved when both p53 and NF-κB were switched on. Taken together, our results shed light on the mechanism of NF-κB activation by etoposide in brain tumours and show that the genetic background of MB and GM cells determines their sensitivity to chemotherapy and has to be taken into account for efficient therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Meley
- Centre for Cell Imaging, School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Elias A, Siegelin MD, Steinmüller A, von Deimling A, Lass U, Korn B, Mueller W. Epigenetic silencing of death receptor 4 mediates tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand resistance in gliomas. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 15:5457-65. [PMID: 19706813 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-09-1125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify and characterize epigenetically regulated genes able to predict sensitivity or resistance to currently tested chemotherapeutic agents in glioma therapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used methylation-sensitive BeadArray technology to identify novel epigenetically regulated genes associated with apoptosis and with potential therapeutic targets in glioma therapy. To elucidate the functional consequences of promoter methylation in the identified target death receptor 4 (DR4), we investigated tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-mediated and anti-DR4-mediated apoptosis in glioma cell lines (U373 and A172) with loss of DR4 and one glioma cell line (LN18) with robust DR4 expression. RESULTS In human astrocytic tumors, we detected DR4 promoter hypermethylation in 60% (n = 5) of diffuse astrocytomas WHO grade 2, in 75% (n = 8) of anaplastic astrocytomas WHO grade 3, and in 70% of glioblastomas WHO grade 4 (n = 33). DR4 is a cell surface protein restricted to glioma cells and is targeted by TRAIL. Glioma cell lines U373 and A172 harbored heavily methylated DR4 promoters, and 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine-mediated demethylation reconstituted DR4 expression in these cell lines. Functional knockdown of DR4 by DR4-specific small interfering RNA in TRAIL-sensitive glioma cell line LN18 significantly mitigated apoptosis induced by an agonistic anti-DR4 antibody. 5-Aza-2-deoxycytidine-mediated demethylation resulted in a functional reconstitution of DR4 on the cell surface of TRAIL-resistant glioma cell line U373 and sensitized U373 to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. Suppression of DR4 by small interfering RNA in demethylated U373 successfully reestablished the TRAIL-resistant phenotype of U373. CONCLUSIONS DR4 promoter methylation is frequent in human astrocytic gliomas, and epigenetic silencing of DR4 mediates resistance to TRAIL/DR4-based glioma therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Elias
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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