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Wang Q, Xin X, Dai Q, Sun M, Chen J, Mostafavi E, Shen Y, Li X. Medulloblastoma targeted therapy: From signaling pathways heterogeneity and current treatment dilemma to the recent advances in development of therapeutic strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108527. [PMID: 37703952 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a major pediatric malignant brain tumor that arises in the cerebellum. MB tumors exhibit highly heterogeneous driven by diverse genetic alterations and could be divided into four major subgroups based on their different biological drivers and molecular features (Wnt, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), group 3, and group 4 MB). Even though the therapeutic strategies for each MB subtype integrate their pathogenesis and were developed to focus on their specific target sites, the unexpected drug non-selective cytotoxicity, low drug accumulation in the brain, and complexed MB tumor microenvironment still be huge obstacles to achieving satisfied MB therapeutic efficiency. This review discussed the current advances in modern MB therapeutic strategy development. Through the recent advances in knowledge of the origin, molecular pathogenesis of MB subtypes and their current therapeutic barriers, we particularly reviewed the current development in advanced MB therapeutic strategy committed to overcome MB treatment obstacles, focusing on novel signaling pathway targeted therapeutic agents and their combination discovery, advanced drug delivery systems design, and MB immunotherapy strategy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyue Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Xiaofei Xin
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qihao Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Mengjuan Sun
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jinhua Chen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Yan Shen
- Center for Research Development and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients and Generic Drugs, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Xueming Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
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2
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Inhibition of MZF1/c-MYC Axis by Cantharidin Impairs Cell Proliferation in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314727. [PMID: 36499054 PMCID: PMC9740304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid zinc finger 1 (MZF1), also known as zinc finger protein 42, is a zinc finger transcription factor, belonging to the Krüppel-like family that has been implicated in several types of malignancies, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). MZF1 is reportedly an oncogenic gene that promotes tumor progression. Moreover, higher expression of MZF1 has been associated with a worse overall survival rate among patients with GBM. Thus, MZF1 may be a promising target for therapeutic interventions. Cantharidin (CTD) has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to induce apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell proliferation; however, the mechanism by which CTD inhibits cell proliferation remains unclear. In this study, we found that the expression of MZF1 was higher in GBM tissues than in adjacent normal tissues and low-grade gliomas. Additionally, the patient-derived GBM cells and GBM cell lines presented higher levels of MZF1 than normal human astrocytes. We demonstrated that CTD had greater anti-proliferative effects on GBM than a derivative of CTD, norcantharidin (NCTD). MZF1 expression was strongly suppressed by CTD treatment. Furthermore, MZF1 enhanced the proliferation of GBM cells and upregulated the expression of c-MYC, whereas these effects were reversed by CTD treatment. The results of our study suggest that CTD may be a promising therapeutic agent for patients with GBM and suggest a promising direction for further investigation.
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Kashani E, Vassella E. Pleiotropy of PP2A Phosphatases in Cancer with a Focus on Glioblastoma IDH Wildtype. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5227. [PMID: 36358647 PMCID: PMC9654311 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine/Threonine protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a heterotrimeric (or occasionally, heterodimeric) phosphatase with pleiotropic functions and ubiquitous expression. Despite the fact that they all contribute to protein dephosphorylation, multiple PP2A complexes exist which differ considerably by their subcellular localization and their substrate specificity, suggesting diverse PP2A functions. PP2A complex formation is tightly regulated by means of gene expression regulation by transcription factors, microRNAs, and post-translational modifications. Furthermore, a constant competition between PP2A regulatory subunits is taking place dynamically and depending on the spatiotemporal circumstance; many of the integral subunits can outcompete the rest, subjecting them to proteolysis. PP2A modulation is especially important in the context of brain tumors due to its ability to modulate distinct glioma-promoting signal transduction pathways, such as PI3K/Akt, Wnt, Ras, NF-κb, etc. Furthermore, PP2A is also implicated in DNA repair and survival pathways that are activated upon treatment of glioma cells with chemo-radiation. Depending on the cancer cell type, preclinical studies have shown some promise in utilising PP2A activator or PP2A inhibitors to overcome therapy resistance. This review has a special focus on "glioblastoma, IDH wild-type" (GBM) tumors, for which the therapy options have limited efficacy, and tumor relapse is inevitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Kashani
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Erik Vassella
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
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Gatto L, Franceschi E, Tosoni A, Di Nunno V, Bartolini S, Brandes AA. Molecular Targeted Therapies: Time for a Paradigm Shift in Medulloblastoma Treatment? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:333. [PMID: 35053495 PMCID: PMC8773620 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a rare malignancy of the posterior cranial fossa. Although until now considered a single disease, according to the current WHO classification, it is a heterogeneous tumor that comprises multiple molecularly defined subgroups, with distinct gene expression profiles, pathogenetic driver alterations, clinical behaviors and age at onset. Adult medulloblastoma, in particular, is considered a rarer "orphan" entity in neuro-oncology practice because while treatments have progressively evolved for the pediatric population, no practice-changing prospective, randomized clinical trials have been performed in adults. In this scenario, the toughest challenge is to transfer the advances in cancer genomics into new molecularly targeted therapeutics, to improve the prognosis of this neoplasm and the treatment-related toxicities. Herein, we focus on the recent advances in targeted therapy of medulloblastoma based on the new and deeper knowledge of disease biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Gatto
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (L.G.); (V.D.N.)
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.T.); (S.B.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Alicia Tosoni
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.T.); (S.B.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Vincenzo Di Nunno
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (L.G.); (V.D.N.)
| | - Stefania Bartolini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.T.); (S.B.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Alba Ariela Brandes
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Oncologia Medica del Sistema Nervoso, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (A.T.); (S.B.); (A.A.B.)
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Ray S, Chaturvedi NK, Bhakat KK, Rizzino A, Mahapatra S. Subgroup-Specific Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Predictive Markers Influencing Pediatric Medulloblastoma Treatment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 12:diagnostics12010061. [PMID: 35054230 PMCID: PMC8774967 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant central nervous system tumor in pediatric patients. Mainstay of therapy remains surgical resection followed by craniospinal radiation and chemotherapy, although limitations to this therapy are applied in the youngest patients. Clinically, tumors are divided into average and high-risk status on the basis of age, metastasis at diagnosis, and extent of surgical resection. However, technological advances in high-throughput screening have facilitated the analysis of large transcriptomic datasets that have been used to generate the current classification system, dividing patients into four primary subgroups, i.e., WNT (wingless), SHH (sonic hedgehog), and the non-SHH/WNT subgroups 3 and 4. Each subgroup can further be subdivided on the basis of a combination of cytogenetic and epigenetic events, some in distinct signaling pathways, that activate specific phenotypes impacting patient prognosis. Here, we delve deeper into the genetic basis for each subgroup by reviewing the extent of cytogenetic events in key genes that trigger neoplastic transformation or that exhibit oncogenic properties. Each of these discussions is further centered on how these genetic aberrations can be exploited to generate novel targeted therapeutics for each subgroup along with a discussion on challenges that are currently faced in generating said therapies. Our future hope is that through better understanding of subgroup-specific cytogenetic events, the field may improve diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment to improve overall quality of life for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutapa Ray
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 601 S Saddle Creek Road, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.R.); (N.K.C.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (K.K.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Nagendra K. Chaturvedi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 601 S Saddle Creek Road, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.R.); (N.K.C.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (K.K.B.); (A.R.)
| | - Kishor K. Bhakat
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (K.K.B.); (A.R.)
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Angie Rizzino
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (K.K.B.); (A.R.)
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Disease, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Sidharth Mahapatra
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 601 S Saddle Creek Road, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.R.); (N.K.C.)
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; (K.K.B.); (A.R.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(402)-599-7754
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Antitumor potential of the protein phosphatase inhibitor, cantharidin, and selected derivatives. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 32:116012. [PMID: 33454654 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116012] [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: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cantharidin is a potent natural protein phosphatase monoterpene anhydride inhibitor secreted by several species of blister beetle, with its demethylated anhydride analogue, (S)-palasonin, occurring as a constituent of the higher plant Butea frondosa. Cantharidin shows both potent protein phosphatase inhibitory and cancer cell cytotoxic activities, but possible preclinical development of this anhydride has been limited thus far by its toxicity. Thus, several synthetic derivatives of cantharidin have been prepared, of which some compounds exhibit improved antitumor potential and may have use as lead compounds. In the present review, the potential antitumor activity, structure-activity relationships, and development of cantharidin-based anticancer drug conjugates are summarized, with protein phosphatase-related and other types of mechanisms of action discussed. Protein phosphatases play a key role in the tumor microenvironment, and thus described herein is also the potential for developing new tumor microenvironment-targeted cancer chemotherapeutic agents, based on cantharidin and its naturally occurring analogues and synthetic derivatives.
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Luzzi S, Giotta Lucifero A, Brambilla I, Semeria Mantelli S, Mosconi M, Foiadelli T, Savasta S. Targeting the medulloblastoma: a molecular-based approach. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2020; 91:79-100. [PMID: 32608377 PMCID: PMC7975825 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i7-s.9958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of success of standard therapies for medulloblastoma has highlighted the need to plan a new therapeutic approach. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the novel treatment strategies based on the molecular characterization and risk categories of the medulloblastoma, also focusing on up-to-date relevant clinical trials and the challenges in translating tailored approaches into clinical practice. METHODS An online search of the literature was carried out on the PubMed/MEDLINE and ClinicalTrials.gov websites about molecular classification of medulloblastomas, ongoing clinical trials and new treatment strategies. Only articles in the English language and published in the last five years were selected. The research was refined based on the best match and relevance. RESULTS A total 58 articles and 51 clinical trials were analyzed. Trials were of phase I, II, and I/II in 55%, 33% and 12% of the cases, respectively. Target and adoptive immunotherapies were the treatment strategies for newly diagnosed and recurrent medulloblastoma in 71% and 29% of the cases, respectively. CONCLUSION Efforts are focused on the fine-tuning of target therapies and immunotherapies, including agents directed to specific pathways, engineered T-cells and oncoviruses. The blood-brain barrier, chemoresistance, the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells are the main translational challenges to be overcome in order to optimize medulloblastoma treatment, reduce the long-term morbidity and increase the overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabino Luzzi
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Alice Giotta Lucifero
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Brambilla
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Uni-versity of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Simona Semeria Mantelli
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Uni-versity of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Mario Mosconi
- Orthopaedic and Traumatology Unit, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Thomas Foiadelli
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Uni-versity of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Savasta
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Uni-versity of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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8
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Pan MS, Cao J, Fan YZ. Insight into norcantharidin, a small-molecule synthetic compound with potential multi-target anticancer activities. Chin Med 2020; 15:55. [PMID: 32514288 PMCID: PMC7260769 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-020-00338-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Norcantharidin (NCTD) is a demethylated derivative of cantharidin, which is an anticancer active ingredient of traditional Chinese medicine, and is currently used clinically as a routine anti-cancer drug in China. Clarifying the anticancer effect and molecular mechanism of NCTD is critical for its clinical application. Here, we summarized the physiological, chemical, pharmacokinetic characteristics and clinical applications of NCTD. Besides, we mainly focus on its potential multi-target anticancer activities and underlying mechanisms, and discuss the problems existing in clinical application and scientific research of NCTD, so as to provide a potential anticancer therapeutic agent for human malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Su Pan
- Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin Cao
- Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue-Zu Fan
- Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065 People’s Republic of China
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Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Medulloblastoma (MB) is a malignant embryonal tumor of the posterior fossa and is the most common type of brain cancer in pediatric patients. In contrast, adult MB is very rare with an incidence of 0.6 per million per year and mostly affects young adults below the age of 40. Recent molecular analyses of pediatric and adult MB have classified these tumors into at least four individual molecular subgroups (SHH, WNT, group 3, and group 4) with distinct demographics, histology, and prognosis. The discrete biological composition of these tumors likely explains the marked heterogeneity in responses seen to conventional therapies such as radiation and cytotoxic chemotherapies. Given the low incidence of adult MB, prospective studies are challenging and scarce, and management guidelines are largely derived from the pediatric MB patient population and retrospective data. However, adult MB is clinically and molecularly distinct from pediatric MB and a comprehensive review of published literature on adult MB highlighting their differences is warranted. Here, we review the management of adult MB focusing on recent studies exploring the effectiveness of upfront chemotherapy, clinical trials in the context of molecular subgroup-specific therapies, and the potential role of immunotherapy in treating this disease.
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Molecular characterization of Wnt pathway and function of β-catenin overexpression in medulloblastoma cell lines. Cytotechnology 2018; 70:1713-1722. [PMID: 30374857 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-018-0260-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant childhood brain tumor. MB is currently classified into four molecular subgroups (Wnt, Shh, Group 3, and Group 4). The wingless (Wnt) pathway is responsible for embryonic development and is deregulated in MB. We analyzed the activation of the Wnt pathway in MB cell lines and its correlation with the Shh pathway, with emphasis on the importance of cellular characterization. Transient β-catenin transfection led to an increase in the β-catenin gene and protein expression in MB cell lines. Wnt pathway activation resulted in a reduced number of colonies in all cell lines studied and a significant increase in the G2/M cell cycle phase only in ONS-76 cells. Regarding the Shh pathway, transfection caused a reduced expression of the PTCH1 and SMO genes only in the UW473 cells. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism underlying the molecular events associated with the effects of Wnt activation in MB.
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Targeting DDX3 in Medulloblastoma Using the Small Molecule Inhibitor RK-33. Transl Oncol 2018; 12:96-105. [PMID: 30292066 PMCID: PMC6171097 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant tumor that arises from the cerebellum of the central nervous system. Clinically, medulloblastomas are treated by surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, all of which result in toxicity and morbidity. Recent reports have identified that DDX3, a member of the RNA helicase family, is mutated in medulloblastoma. In this study, we demonstrate the role of DDX3 in driving medulloblastoma. With the use of a small molecule inhibitor of DDX3, RK-33, we could inhibit growth and promote cell death in two medulloblastoma cell lines, DAOY and UW228, with IC50 values of 2.5 μM and 3.5 μM, respectively. Treatment of DAOY and UW228 cells with RK-33 caused a G1 arrest, resulted in reduced TCF reporter activity, and reduced mRNA expression levels of downstream target genes of the WNT pathway, such as Axin2, CCND1, MYC, and Survivin. In addition, treatment of DAOY and UW228 cells with a combination of RK-33 and radiation exhibited a synergistic effect. Importantly, the combination of RK-33 and 5 Gy radiation caused tumor regression in a mouse xenograft model of medulloblastoma. Using immunohistochemistry, we observed DDX3 expression in both pediatric (55%) and adult (66%) medulloblastoma patients. Based on these results, we conclude that RK-33 is a promising radiosensitizing agent that inhibits DDX3 activity and down-regulates WNT/β-catenin signaling and could be used as a frontline therapeutic strategy for DDX3-expressing medulloblastomas in combination with radiation.
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Aldaregia J, Odriozola A, Matheu A, Garcia I. Targeting mTOR as a Therapeutic Approach in Medulloblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071838. [PMID: 29932116 PMCID: PMC6073374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a master signaling pathway that regulates organismal growth and homeostasis, because of its implication in protein and lipid synthesis, and in the control of the cell cycle and the cellular metabolism. Moreover, it is necessary in cerebellar development and stem cell pluripotency maintenance. Its deregulation has been implicated in the medulloblastoma and in medulloblastoma stem cells (MBSCs). Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant solid tumor in childhood. The current therapies have improved the overall survival but they carry serious side effects, such as permanent neurological sequelae and disability. Recent studies have given rise to a new molecular classification of the subgroups of medulloblastoma, specifying 12 different subtypes containing novel potential therapeutic targets. In this review we propose the targeting of mTOR, in combination with current therapies, as a promising novel therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juncal Aldaregia
- Cellular Oncology Group, Biodonostia Research Institute, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
| | - Ainitze Odriozola
- Cellular Oncology Group, Biodonostia Research Institute, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
| | - Ander Matheu
- Cellular Oncology Group, Biodonostia Research Institute, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48013 Bilbao, Spain.
- CIBER de fragilidad y envejecimiento saludable (CIBERfes), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Idoia Garcia
- Cellular Oncology Group, Biodonostia Research Institute, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48013 Bilbao, Spain.
- CIBER de fragilidad y envejecimiento saludable (CIBERfes), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain.
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Coluccia D, Figuereido C, Isik S, Smith C, Rutka JT. Medulloblastoma: Tumor Biology and Relevance to Treatment and Prognosis Paradigm. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2016; 16:43. [PMID: 27021772 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-016-0644-7] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma is a malignant embryonic brain tumor arising in the posterior fossa and typically occurring in pediatric patients. Current multimodal treatment regimes have significantly improved the survival rates; however, a marked heterogeneity in therapy response is observed, and one third of all patients die within 5 years after diagnosis. Large-scale genetic and transcriptome analysis revealed four medulloblastoma subgroups (WNT, SHH, Group 3, and Group 4) associated with different demographic parameters, tumor manifestation, and clinical behavior. Future treatment protocols will integrate molecular classification schemes to evaluate subgroup-specific intensification or de-escalation of adjuvant therapies aimed to increase tumor control and reduce iatrogenic induced morbidity. Furthermore, the identification of genetic drivers allows assessing target therapies in order to increase the chemotherapeutic armamentarium. This review highlights the biology behind the current classification system and elucidates relevant aspects of the disease influencing forthcoming clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Coluccia
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Toronto, Suite 1503, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.,Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital of Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Carlyn Figuereido
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Toronto, Suite 1503, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Semra Isik
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Toronto, Suite 1503, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Christian Smith
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Toronto, Suite 1503, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - James T Rutka
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumor Research Centre, Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, the University of Toronto, Suite 1503, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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Yang PY, Hu DN, Kao YH, Lin IC, Chou CY, Wu YC. Norcantharidin induces apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells through both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Pharmacol Rep 2016; 68:874-80. [PMID: 27351942 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Norcantharidin, a modified pure compound from blister beetles, was previously demonstrated to induce apoptosis of cancer cells. This study investigated its anti-cancer activity in prostate cancer cells and the mechanisms involved. METHODS Two human prostate cancer cell lines, 22Rv1 and Du145, were treated with norcantharidin at concentrations ranging from 3 to 30μg/ml. Cytotoxic effect of norcantharidin was determined by use of the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-yl)-diphenyl tetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay. The effects of apoptosis were evaluated by cell death assay, Caspase-3, -8, -9 activity and cytochrome c release. The apoptotic related protein expressions (Bcl-2 family and inhibitor of apoptosis proteins) were determined using western blotting. RESULTS An MTT assay revealed that norcantharidin induced cytotoxicity against both prostate cancer cells in dose- and time-dependent manners. Treatment with norcantharidin at 3μg/ml or higher significantly increased oligonucleosomal formation with concomitant appearance of PARP cleavage, implicating the induction of apoptosis. Norcantharidin intrinsically elevated cytosolic cytochrome c levels and activated caspase-3, -8, and -9. Extrinsically, it upregulated the expression of not only the death receptors Fas and DR5 in 22Rv1 cells, but also of RIP and TRADD adaptor proteins in Du145 cells. Mechanistically, norcantharidin increased ratios of pro-/anti-apoptotic proteins and decreased expression of IAP family member proteins, including cIAP1 and survivin, regardless of the distinct status of androgen receptor expression in both cells. CONCLUSIONS Norcantharidin exhibited cytotoxicity against 22Rv1 and Du145 prostate cancer cells by inducing both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways and could thus potentially be a remedy for prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Yu Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Dan-Ning Hu
- Tissue Culture Center, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ying-Hsien Kao
- Department of Medical Research, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - I-Ching Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan, ROC; School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC; School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Chih-Yuan Chou
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Show-Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Yang-Chang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.
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15
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Pei Y, Liu KW, Wang J, Garancher A, Tao R, Esparza LA, Maier DL, Udaka YT, Murad N, Morrissy S, Seker-Cin H, Brabetz S, Qi L, Kogiso M, Schubert S, Olson JM, Cho YJ, Li XN, Crawford JR, Levy ML, Kool M, Pfister SM, Taylor MD, Wechsler-Reya RJ. HDAC and PI3K Antagonists Cooperate to Inhibit Growth of MYC-Driven Medulloblastoma. Cancer Cell 2016; 29:311-323. [PMID: 26977882 PMCID: PMC4794752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly malignant pediatric brain tumor. Despite aggressive therapy, many patients succumb to the disease, and survivors experience severe side effects from treatment. MYC-driven MB has a particularly poor prognosis and would greatly benefit from more effective therapies. We used an animal model of MYC-driven MB to screen for drugs that decrease viability of tumor cells. Among the most effective compounds were histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs). HDACIs potently inhibit survival of MYC-driven MB cells in vitro, in part by inducing expression of the FOXO1 tumor suppressor gene. HDACIs also synergize with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors to inhibit tumor growth in vivo. These studies identify an effective combination therapy for the most aggressive form of MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxin Pei
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Cancer and Immunology Department, Brain Tumor Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Kun-Wei Liu
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Alexandra Garancher
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ran Tao
- Cancer and Immunology Department, Brain Tumor Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Lourdes A Esparza
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Donna L Maier
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yoko T Udaka
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego - Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Najiba Murad
- Cancer and Immunology Department, Brain Tumor Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Sorana Morrissy
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Huriye Seker-Cin
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Core Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Brabetz
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Core Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lin Qi
- Brain Tumor Program, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mari Kogiso
- Brain Tumor Program, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Simone Schubert
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - James M Olson
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Yoon-Jae Cho
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Xiao-Nan Li
- Brain Tumor Program, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John R Crawford
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego - Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA; Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego - Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Michael L Levy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego - Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Marcel Kool
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Core Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Core Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael D Taylor
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Robert J Wechsler-Reya
- Tumor Initiation and Maintenance Program, NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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N-Farnesyloxy-norcantharimide inhibits progression of human leukemic Jurkat T cells through regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and interleukin-2 production. Anticancer Drugs 2015; 26:1034-42. [PMID: 26288134 PMCID: PMC4588604 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the anticancer effects of N-farnesyloxy-norcantharimide (NOC15), a newly synthesized norcantharidin (NCTD) analogue, on human leukemic Jurkat T cells and the signaling pathway underlying its effects. We found that the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of NOC15 on Jurkat T cells is 1.4 μmol/l, which is 11.14-fold (=15.6÷1.4) smaller than the 15.6 μmol/l of NCTD on Jurkat T cells, whereas the IC50 of NOC15 on human normal lymphoblast (HNL) is 207.9 μmol/l, which is 8.17-fold (=1698.0÷207.8) smaller than the 1698.0 μmol/l of NCTD on HNL cells. These results indicated that NOC15 exerts a higher anticancer effect on Jurkat T cells and has higher toxicity toward HNL cells than NCTD. Thus, NOC15 is 1.36-fold (=11.14÷8.17) beneficial as an anticancer agent toward Jurkat T cells compared with NCTD. Moreover, NOC15 can increase the percentage of cells in the sub-G1 phase and reduce the cell viability of Jurkat T cells, stimulate p38 and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathway, and inhibit calcineurin expression and interleukin-2 (IL-2) production. However, NOC15 exerted no effects on the Jun-N-terminal kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) signaling pathway, the production of IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α. We conclude that the anticancer activity of the newly synthesized NOC15 is 1.36-fold beneficial than NCTD as an anticancer agent and that NOC15 can increase the percentage of cells in the sub-G1 phase through the stimulation of p38 and ERK1/2 of the MAPK signaling pathway and the inhibition of calcineurin expression and IL-2 production. The NOC15 may have the potential of being developed into an anticancer agent in the future.
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17
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Natural compounds for pediatric cancer treatment. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2015; 389:131-49. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-015-1191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Khatua S. Evolving molecular era of childhood medulloblastoma: time to revisit therapy. Future Oncol 2015; 12:107-17. [PMID: 26617331 DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently medulloblastoma is treated with a uniform therapeutic approach based on histopathology and clinico-radiological risk stratification, resulting in unpredictable treatment failure and relapses. Improved understanding of the biological, molecular and genetic make-up of these tumors now clearly identifies it as a compendium of four distinct subtypes (WNT, SHH, group 3 and 4). Advances in utilization of the genomic and epigenomic machinery have now delineated genetic aberrations and epigenetic perturbations in each subgroup as potential druggable targets. This has resulted in endeavors to profile targeted therapy. The challenge and future of medulloblastoma therapeutics will be to keep pace with the evolving novel biological insights and translating them into optimal targeted treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumen Khatua
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Children's Cancer Hospital, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 87, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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19
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Khan IS, Odom M, Ehtesham M, Colvin D, Quarles CC, McLaughlin B, Singer RJ. Intraarterial administration of norcantharidin attenuates ischemic stroke damage in rodents when given at the time of reperfusion: novel uses of endovascular capabilities. J Neurosurg 2015; 125:152-9. [PMID: 26544777 DOI: 10.3171/2015.4.jns142400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) plays a critical role in infarct progression, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, and vasogenic edema. While systemic administration of MMP-9 inhibitors has shown neuroprotective promise in ischemic stroke, there has been little effort to incorporate these drugs into endovascular modalities. By modifying the rodent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model to allow local intraarterial delivery of drugs, one has the ability to mimic endovascular delivery of therapeutics. Using this model, the authors sought to maximize the protective potential of MMP-9 inhibition by intraarterial administration of an MMP-9 inhibitor, norcantharidin (NCTD). METHODS Spontaneously hypertensive rats were subjected to 90-minute MCAO followed immediately by local intraarterial administration of NCTD. The rats' neurobehavioral performances were scored according to the ladder rung walking test results and the Garcia neurological test for as long as 7 days after stroke. MRI was also conducted 24 hours after the stroke to assess infarct volume and BBB disruption. At the end of the experimental protocol, rat brains were used for active MMP-9 immunohistochemical analysis to assess the degree of MMP-9 inhibition. RESULTS NCTD-treated rats showed significantly better neurobehavioral scores for all days tested. MR images also depicted significantly decreased infarct volumes and BBB disruption 24 hours after stroke. Inhibition of MMP-9 expression in the ischemic region was depicted on immunohistochemical analysis, wherein treated rats showed decreased active MMP-9 staining compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS Intraarterial NCTD significantly improved outcome when administered at the time of reperfusion in a spontaneously hypertensive rat stroke model. This study suggests that supplementing endovascular revascularization with local neuroprotective drug therapy may be a viable therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imad S Khan
- J.B. Marshall Laboratory for Neurovascular Therapeutics at Dartmouth;,Division of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Mitchell Odom
- Department of Neurosurgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
| | - Moneeb Ehtesham
- Department of Neurosurgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
| | - Daniel Colvin
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Sciences; and
| | - C Chad Quarles
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Sciences; and
| | - BethAnn McLaughlin
- Department of Neurology and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert J Singer
- J.B. Marshall Laboratory for Neurovascular Therapeutics at Dartmouth;,Division of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
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20
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Renna C, Salaroli R, Cocchi C, Cenacchi G. XAV939-mediated ARTD activity inhibition in human MB cell lines. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124149. [PMID: 25835728 PMCID: PMC4383513 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Diphtheria toxin-like ADP-ribosyltransferases 1 and 5 (ARTD-1, ARTD-5) are poly ADP-ribose enzymes (PARP) involved in non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ), which is the major pathway of double-strand break (DSB) repair. In addition, ARTD-5, or Tankyrase (TNKS), is a positive regulator of the WNT signaling implicated in the development and biological behavior of many neoplasms, such as Medulloblastoma (MB), in which radiotherapy is an essential part of the treatment. The use of radiosensitizing agents may improve the therapeutic index in MB patients by increasing the efficacy of radiotherapy, while reducing toxicity to the neuroaxis. ARTD-5 seems to be a good molecular target for improving the current treatment of MB. In this study, we used the small molecule XAV939, a potent ARTD-5 inhibitor with a slight affinity for ARTD-1, in different human MB cell lines. XAV939 inhibited the WNT pathway and DNA-PKcs in our MB cells, with many biological consequences. The co-administration of XAV939 and ionizing radiations (IR) inhibited MB cells proliferation and clonogenic capacity, decreased their efficacy in repairing DNA damage, and increased IR-induced cell mortality. In conclusion, our in vitro data show that XAV939 could be a very promising small molecule in MB treatment, and these results lay the basis for further in vivo studies with the aim of improving the current therapy available for MB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Renna
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Salaroli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Cocchi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanna Cenacchi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Ye ZN, Yu MY, Kong LM, Wang WH, Yang YF, Liu JQ, Qiu MH, Li Y. Biflavone Ginkgetin, a Novel Wnt Inhibitor, Suppresses the Growth of Medulloblastoma. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2015; 5:91-97. [PMID: 25821199 PMCID: PMC4402583 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-015-0056-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a form of malignant brain tumor that predominantly arises in infants and children, of which approximately 25 % is due to upregulation of canonical Wnt pathway with mainly mutations in CTNNB1. Therefore, Wnt inhibitors could offer rational therapeutic strategies and chemoprevention for this malignant cancer. In our present study, we undertook a screening for antagonists of Wnt signaling from 600 natural compounds, and identified Ginkgetin, a biflavone isolated from Cephalotaxus fortunei var. alpina. Ginkgetin inhibited Wnt pathway with an IC50 value around 5.92 μM and structure-activity relationship analysis suggested the methoxy group in Ginkgetin as a functional group. Biflavone Ginkgetin showed obvious cytotoxicity in Daoy and D283 MB cells. Cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry showed that Ginkgetin induced efficiently G2/M phase arrest in Daoy cells. Further mechanism studies showed that Ginkgetin reduced the expression of Wnt target genes, including Axin2, cyclinD1 and survivin in MB cells. The phosphorylation level of β-catenin also decreased in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Collectively, our data suggest that Ginkgetin is a novel inhibitor of Wnt signaling, and as such warrants further exploration as a promising anti-medulloblastoma candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Nan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Mu-Yuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Ling-Mei Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Wei-Hua Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Yuan-Feng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 China
| | - Jie-Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Ming-Hua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
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22
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Abstract
Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children and, as such, has been the focus of tremendous efforts to genomically characterize it. What was once thought to be a single disease has been divided into multiple, molecularly unique subgroups through gene expression profiling. Each subgroup is not only unique in its origin and pathogenesis but also in the prognosis and potential therapeutic options. Targeted therapy of malignancies has long been the goal of clinical oncology. The progress made in the classification of medulloblastoma should be used as a model for future studies. With the evolution of epigenetic and genomic sequencing, especially when used in tandem with high-throughput pharmacologic screening protocols, the potential for subgroup-specific targeting is closer than ever. This review focuses on the development of the molecular classification system and its potential use in developing prognostic models as well as for the advancement of targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Samkari
- Department of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; Section of Oncology, St Christopher׳s Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Jason C White
- Department of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Roger J Packer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC; Brain Tumor Institute, Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Children׳s National Health System, Washington, DC
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23
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Salaroli R, Ronchi A, Buttarelli FR, Cortesi F, Marchese V, Della Bella E, Renna C, Baldi C, Giangaspero F, Cenacchi G. Wnt activation affects proliferation, invasiveness and radiosensitivity in medulloblastoma. J Neurooncol 2014; 121:119-27. [PMID: 25261924 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-014-1621-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Medulloblastomas (MBs) associated with the Wnt activation represent a subgroup with a favorable prognosis, but it remains unclear whether Wnt activation confers a less aggressive phenotype and/or enhances radiosensitivity. To investigate this issue, we evaluated the biological behavior of an MB cell line, UW228-1, stably transfected with human β-catenin cDNA encoding a nondegradable form of β-catenin (UW-B) in standard culture conditions and after radiation treatment. We evaluated the expression, transcriptional activity, and localization of β-catenin in the stably transfected cells using immunofluorescence and WB. We performed morphological analysis using light and electron microscopy. We then analyzed changes in the invasiveness, growth, and mortality in standard culture conditions and after radiation. We demonstrated that (A) Wnt activation inhibited 97 % of the invasion capability of the cells, (B) the growth of the UW-B cells was statistically significantly lower than that of all the other control cells (p < 0.01), (C) the mortality of irradiated UW-B cells was statistically significantly higher than that of the controls and their nonirradiated counterparts (p < 0.05), and (D) morphological features of neuronal differentiation were observed in the Wnt-activated cells. In tissue samples, the Ki-67 labeling index (LI) was lower in β-catenin-positive samples compared to non-β-catenin positive ones. The Ki-67 LI median (LI = 40) of the nuclear β-catenin-positive tumor samples was lower than that of non-nuclear β-catenin-positive samples (LI = 50), but the difference was not statistically significant. Overall, our data suggest that activation of the Wnt pathway reduces the proliferation and invasion of MBs and increases the tumor's radiosensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Salaroli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
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24
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DeSouza RM, Jones BRT, Lowis SP, Kurian KM. Pediatric medulloblastoma - update on molecular classification driving targeted therapies. Front Oncol 2014; 4:176. [PMID: 25101241 PMCID: PMC4105823 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2014.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As advances in the molecular and genetic profiling of pediatric medulloblastoma evolve, associations with prognosis and treatment are found (prognostic and predictive biomarkers) and research is directed at molecular therapies. Medulloblastoma typically affects young patients, where the implications of any treatment on the developing brain must be carefully considered. The aim of this article is to provide a clear comprehensible update on the role molecular profiling and subgroups in pediatric medulloblastoma as it is likely to contribute significantly toward prognostication. Knowledge of this classification is of particular interest because there are new molecular therapies targeting the Shh subgroup of medulloblastomas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kathreena M Kurian
- Brain Tumour Group, Institute of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Bristol , Bristol , UK
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25
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Zheng J, Du W, Song LJ, Zhang R, Sun LG, Chen FG, Wei XT. Norcantharidin induces growth inhibition and apoptosis of glioma cells by blocking the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway. World J Surg Oncol 2014; 12:207. [PMID: 25022352 PMCID: PMC4114108 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7819-12-207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 07/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malignant gliomas represent the most common primary brain tumors. The prognosis of patients with malignant gliomas is poor in spite of current intensive therapy and novel therapeutic modalities are needed. Here we report that norcantharidin is effective in growth inhibition of glioma cell lines in vitro. Methods Glioma cell lines (U87 and C6) were treated with norcantharidin. The effects of norcantharidin on the proliferation and apoptosis of glioma cells were measured by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-thiazolyl]-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. Western blotting was employed to determine the signaling pathway changes. Results The results showed that norcantharidin effectively inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis in glioma cells, which was concurrent with inhibition of the expression of phospho-MEK and phospho-ERK. Furthermore, the expression anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 significantly reduced, but no changes in Bcl-xL and Bax. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that norcantharidin is effective for growth inhibition of glioma cell lines and suggest that norcantharidin may be a new therapeutic option for patients with glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinxiang Central Hospital, 56 Jinsui Avenue, Xinxiang, Henan, China.
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26
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He M, Li Y, Zhang L, Li L, Shen Y, Lin L, Zheng W, Chen L, Bian X, Ng HK, Tang L. Curcumin suppresses cell proliferation through inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in medulloblastoma. Oncol Rep 2014; 32:173-80. [PMID: 24858998 DOI: 10.3892/or.2014.3206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the survival rate of medulloblastoma patients has greatly improved; yet, patients undergoing current treatment regimes suffer from serious therapy-related side-effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anticancer effects of curcumin on medulloblastoma cells by testing its capacity to suppress proliferation and regulate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In the present study, cell proliferation was determined by MTT assay. Cell cycle was observed by flow cytometry. The changes in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway were analyzed by immunofluorescence, western blot analysis and RT-PCR. Curcumin treatment resulted in a dose- and time-dependent inhibition of proliferation in the medulloblastoma cell line. Curcumin treatment arrested the cell-cycle at the G2/M phase. Furthermore, curcumin treatment led to activation of GSK-3β, reduced expression of β-catenin and its downstream target cyclin D1. The attenuation of the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway was due to the loss of nuclear β-catenin. In conclusion, curcumin can inhibit cell growth by suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and it has the potential to be developed as a therapeutic agent for medulloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misi He
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Pathology, Insititute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Longjiang Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Ling Lin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Weiping Zheng
- Experimental and Teaching Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Li Chen
- Experimental and Teaching Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Xiuwu Bian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Ho-Keung Ng
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, P.R. China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R. China
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The overall prognosis of brainstem gliomas is very poor, and the current treatment cannot significantly prolong the overall survival of these patients; therefore, studying the molecular biological mechanisms of the occurrence and development of brainstem gliomas has important significance for their treatment. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is closely associated with the occurrence and development of tumors, but its relationship with brainstem gliomas remains unclear. METHODS This study used Western blot and immunohistochemistry methods to detect the expressions of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related components such as Wnt-1, Wnt-2, β-catenin and C-myc in six cases of normal brain tissues and 24 cases of brainstem gliomas and analyzed the relationship between their expressions and clinicopathological characteristics. RESULTS Wnt-1 had no obvious expression in normal brain tissues and did not show any significant difference between high- and low-grade brainstem gliomas; the expressions of Wnt-2, β-catenin and C-myc in high-grade brainstem gliomas were significantly higher than that in low-grade brainstem gliomas and normal brain tissues and were positively correlated with the expression of Ki-67. Moreover, the expressions of Wnt-2 and C-myc were significantly associated with the prognosis of brainstem glioma patients; additionally, there was a trend toward increased β-catenin expression with shorter survival, but there was no statistical difference. CONCLUSIONS Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway might be abnormally activated and plays an important role in the occurrence and development of brainstem gliomas. Wnt-2, β-catenin and C-myc may be potential targets for brainstem glioma treatment.
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Norcantharidin, derivative of cantharidin, for cancer stem cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:838651. [PMID: 24073010 PMCID: PMC3773992 DOI: 10.1155/2013/838651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Revised: 07/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) existing in human cancers have been demonstrated to be a major cause of cancer treatment resistance, invasion, metastasis, and relapse. Self-renewal pathways, Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), and the Notch signaling pathway play critical roles in developing CSCs and lead to angiogenesis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is an unfavorable factor causing the failure of treatments against cancer cells. The most important and thoroughly studied mechanism involved in MDR is the active efflux of chemotherapeutic agents through membrane drug transporters. There is growing evidence that Norcantharidin (NCTD), a water-soluble synthetic small molecule derivative of naturally occurring cantharidin from the medicinal insect blister beetle (Mylabris phalerata Pallas), is capable of chemoprevention and tumor inhibition. We summarize investigations into the modulation of self-renewal pathways and MDR in CSCs by NCTD. This review may aid in further investigation of using NCTD to develop more effective strategies for cancer treatment to reduce resistance and recurrence.
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WNT/β-catenin pathway activation in Myc immortalised cerebellar progenitor cells inhibits neuronal differentiation and generates tumours resembling medulloblastoma. Br J Cancer 2012; 107:1144-52. [PMID: 22929883 PMCID: PMC3461168 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant childhood brain tumour. Aberrant activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway occurs in approximately 25% of medulloblastomas. However, its role in medulloblastoma pathogenesis is not understood. Methods: We have developed a model of WNT/β-catenin pathway-activated medulloblastoma. Pathway activation was induced in a Myc immortalised cerebellar progenitor cell line through stable expression of Wnt1. In vitro and in vivo analysis was undertaken to understand the effect of pathway activation and identify the potential cell of origin. Results: Tumours that histologically resembled classical medulloblastoma formed in vivo using cells overexpressing Wnt1, but not with the control cell line. Wnt1 overexpression inhibited neuronal differentiation in vitro, suggesting WNT/β-catenin pathway activation prevents cells terminally differentiating, maintaining them in a more ‘stem-like’ state. Analysis of cerebellar progenitor cell markers demonstrated the cell line resembled cells from the cerebellar ventricular zone. Conclusion: We have developed a cell line with the means of orthotopically modelling WNT/β-catenin pathway-activated medulloblastoma. We provide evidence of the role pathway activation is playing in tumour pathogenesis and suggest medulloblastomas can arise from cells other than granule cell progenitors. This cell line is a valuable resource to further understand the role of pathway activation in tumorigenesis and for investigation of targeted therapies.
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Yeh CB, Hsieh MJ, Hsieh YH, Chien MH, Chiou HL, Yang SF. Antimetastatic effects of norcantharidin on hepatocellular carcinoma by transcriptional inhibition of MMP-9 through modulation of NF-kB activity. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31055. [PMID: 22363545 PMCID: PMC3280344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Accepted: 12/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rate of morbidity and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Taiwan has not lessened because of difficulty in treating tumor metastasis. Norcantharidin (NCTD) is currently used as an anticancer drug for hepatoma, breast cancer, and colorectal adenocarcinoma. NCTD possesses various biological anticancer activities, including apoptosis. However, detailed effects and molecular mechanisms of NCTD on metastasis are unclear. Thus, HCC cells were subjected to treatment with NCTD and then analyzed to determine the effects of NCTD on cell metastasis. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Modified Boyden chamber assays revealed that NCTD treatment inhibited cell migration and invasion capacities of HCC cells substantially. Results of zymography and western blotting showed that activities and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) were inhibited by NCTD. Western blot analysis showed that NCTD inhibits phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Testing of mRNA level, quantitative real-time PCR, and promoter assays evaluated the inhibitory effects of NCTD on MMP-9 and u-PA expression in HCC cells. The chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay for analyzing the genomic DNA sequences bound to these proteins was reactive to the transcription protein nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB, which was inhibited by NCTD. The expression of NF-kappa B was measured by western blot analysis, which revealed decreased nuclear-factor DNA-binding activity after NCTD treatment. CONCLUSIONS NCTD inhibited MMP-9 and u-PA expression through the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and NF-kappaB signaling pathway which serves as a powerful chemopreventive agent in HCC cell metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Bin Yeh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Ju Hsieh
- School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsien Hsieh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsien Chien
- Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Chiou
- School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HLC); (SFY)
| | - Shun-Fa Yang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HLC); (SFY)
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