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Coutinho LL, Femino EL, Gonzalez AL, Moffat RL, Heinz WF, Cheng RYS, Lockett SJ, Rangel MC, Ridnour LA, Wink DA. NOS2 and COX-2 Co-Expression Promotes Cancer Progression: A Potential Target for Developing Agents to Prevent or Treat Highly Aggressive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6103. [PMID: 38892290 PMCID: PMC11173351 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) exert profound biological impacts dictated by their chemistry. Understanding their spatial distribution is essential for deciphering their roles in diverse biological processes. This review establishes a framework for the chemical biology of NO and RNS, exploring their dynamic reactions within the context of cancer. Concentration-dependent signaling reveals distinctive processes in cancer, with three levels of NO influencing oncogenic properties. In this context, NO plays a crucial role in cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, chemotherapy resistance, and immune suppression. Increased NOS2 expression correlates with poor survival across different tumors, including breast cancer. Additionally, NOS2 can crosstalk with the proinflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) to promote cancer progression. NOS2 and COX-2 co-expression establishes a positive feed-forward loop, driving immunosuppression and metastasis in estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer. Spatial evaluation of NOS2 and COX-2 reveals orthogonal expression, suggesting the unique roles of these niches in the tumor microenvironment (TME). NOS2 and COX2 niche formation requires IFN-γ and cytokine-releasing cells. These niches contribute to poor clinical outcomes, emphasizing their role in cancer progression. Strategies to target these markers include direct inhibition, involving pan-inhibitors and selective inhibitors, as well as indirect approaches targeting their induction or downstream effectors. Compounds from cruciferous vegetables are potential candidates for NOS2 and COX-2 inhibition offering therapeutic applications. Thus, understanding the chemical biology of NO and RNS, their spatial distribution, and their implications in cancer progression provides valuable insights for developing targeted therapies and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro L. Coutinho
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
- Center for Translational Research in Oncology, ICESP/HC, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo and Comprehensive Center for Precision Oncology, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Elise L. Femino
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
| | - Ana L. Gonzalez
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
| | - Rebecca L. Moffat
- Optical Microscopy and Analysis Laboratory, Office of Science and Technology Resources, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA;
| | - William F. Heinz
- Optical Microscopy and Analysis Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (W.F.H.); (S.J.L.)
| | - Robert Y. S. Cheng
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
| | - Stephen J. Lockett
- Optical Microscopy and Analysis Laboratory, Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (W.F.H.); (S.J.L.)
| | - M. Cristina Rangel
- Center for Translational Research in Oncology, ICESP/HC, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo and Comprehensive Center for Precision Oncology, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Lisa A. Ridnour
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
| | - David A. Wink
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (L.L.C.); (E.L.F.); (A.L.G.); (R.Y.S.C.)
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Kim R, Taylor D, Vonderheide RH, Gabrilovich DI. Ferroptosis of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:542-552. [PMID: 37380530 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a distinct form of cell death driven by the accumulation of peroxidized lipids. Characterized by alterations in redox lipid metabolism, ferroptosis has been implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including cancer. Induction of ferroptosis is considered a novel way to kill tumor cells, especially cells resistant to radiation and chemotherapy. However, in recent years, a new paradigm has emerged. In addition to promoting tumor cell death, ferroptosis causes potent immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by affecting both innate and adaptive immune responses. In this review, we discuss the dual role of ferroptosis in the antitumor and protumorigenic functions of immune cells in cancer. We suggest strategies for targeting ferroptosis, taking into account its ambiguous role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Kim
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Devon Taylor
- AstraZeneca, R&D Oncology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Robert H Vonderheide
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Everix L, Seane EN, Ebenhan T, Goethals I, Bolcaen J. Introducing HDAC-Targeting Radiopharmaceuticals for Glioblastoma Imaging and Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:227. [PMID: 37259375 PMCID: PMC9967489 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in multimodality therapy for glioblastoma (GB) incorporating surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapy, the overall prognosis remains poor. One of the interesting targets for GB therapy is the histone deacetylase family (HDAC). Due to their pleiotropic effects on, e.g., DNA repair, cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and cell cycle, HDAC inhibitors have gained a lot of attention in the last decade as anti-cancer agents. Despite their known underlying mechanism, their therapeutic activity is not well-defined. In this review, an extensive overview is given of the current status of HDAC inhibitors for GB therapy, followed by an overview of current HDAC-targeting radiopharmaceuticals. Imaging HDAC expression or activity could provide key insights regarding the role of HDAC enzymes in gliomagenesis, thus identifying patients likely to benefit from HDACi-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Everix
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Elsie Neo Seane
- Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town 7530, South Africa
| | - Thomas Ebenhan
- Pre-Clinical Imaging Facility (PCIF), (NuMeRI) NPC, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Technology/Preclinical Drug Development Platform (PCDDP), North West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
- Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Ingeborg Goethals
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julie Bolcaen
- Radiation Biophysics Division, SSC laboratory, iThemba LABS, Cape Town 7131, South Africa
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Nakamura Y, Inoue A, Nishikawa M, Ohnishi T, Yano H, Kanemura Y, Ohtsuka Y, Ozaki S, Kusakabe K, Suehiro S, Yamashita D, Shigekawa S, Watanabe H, Kitazawa R, Tanaka J, Kunieda T. Quantitative measurement of peritumoral concentrations of glutamate, N-acetyl aspartate, and lactate on magnetic resonance spectroscopy predicts glioblastoma-related refractory epilepsy. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2022; 164:3253-3266. [PMID: 36107232 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-022-05363-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased extracellular glutamate is known to cause epileptic seizures in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). However, predicting whether the seizure will be refractory is difficult. The present study investigated whether evaluation of the levels of various metabolites, including glutamate, can predict the occurrence of refractory seizure in GBM by quantitative measurement of metabolite concentrations on magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). METHODS Forty patients were treated according to the same treatment protocol for primary GBM at Ehime University Hospital between April 2017 and July 2021. Of these patients, 23 underwent MRS to determine concentrations of metabolites, including glutamate, N-acetylaspartate, creatine, and lactate, in the tumor periphery by applying LC-Model. The concentration of each metabolite was expressed as a ratio to creatine concentration. Patients were divided into three groups: Type A, patients with no seizures; Type B, patients with seizures that disappeared after treatment; and Type C, patients with seizures that remained unrelieved or appeared after treatment (refractory seizures). Relationships between concentrations of metabolites and seizure types were investigated. RESULTS In 23 GBMs, seizures were confirmed in 11 patients, including Type B in four and Type C in seven. Patients with epilepsy (Type B or C) showed significantly higher glutamate and N-acetylaspartate values than did non-epilepsy patients (Type A) (p < 0.05). No significant differences in glutamate or N-acetylaspartate levels were seen between Types B and C. Conversely, Type C showed significantly higher concentrations of lactate than did Type B (p = 0.001). Cutoff values of lactate-to-creatine, glutamate-to-creatine, and N-acetylaspartate-to-creatine ratios for refractory seizure were > 1.25, > 1.09, and > 0.88, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Extracellular concentrations of glutamate, N-acetylaspartate, and lactate in the tumor periphery were significantly elevated in patients with GBM with refractory seizures. Measurement of these metabolites on MRS may predict refractory epilepsy in such patients and could be an indicator for continuing the use of antiepileptic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawara Nakamura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Akihiro Inoue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Masahiro Nishikawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Takanori Ohnishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washoukai Sadamoto Hospital, 1-6-1 Takehara, Matsuyama, Ehime, 790-0052, Japan
| | - Hajime Yano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Yonehiro Kanemura
- Department of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Institute for Clinical Research, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14 Hoenzaka, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-14 Hoenzaka, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ohtsuka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Saya Ozaki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kusakabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Satoshi Suehiro
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Daisuke Yamashita
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Seiji Shigekawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Hideaki Watanabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Riko Kitazawa
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Ehime University Hospital, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Junya Tanaka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Takeharu Kunieda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, 454 Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
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Shi J, Yang N, Han M, Qiu C. Emerging roles of ferroptosis in glioma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:993316. [PMID: 36072803 PMCID: PMC9441765 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.993316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common primary malignant tumor in the central nervous system, and directly affects the quality of life and cognitive function of patients. Ferroptosis, is a new form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Ferroptosis is mainly due to redox imbalance and involves multiple intracellular biology processes, such as iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, and antioxidants synthesis. Induction of ferroptosis could be a new target for glioma treatment, and ferroptosis-related processes are associated with chemoresistance and radioresistance in glioma. In the present review, we provide the characteristics, key regulators and pathways of ferroptosis and the crosstalk between ferroptosis and other programmed cell death in glioma, we also proposed the application and prospect of ferroptosis in the treatment of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Shi
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Mingzhi Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory and Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function Remodeling, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chen Qiu
- School of Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine and Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Chen Qiu,
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Mitre AO, Florian AI, Buruiana A, Boer A, Moldovan I, Soritau O, Florian SI, Susman S. Ferroptosis Involvement in Glioblastoma Treatment. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020319. [PMID: 35208642 PMCID: PMC8876121 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the deadliest brain tumors. Current standard therapy includes tumor resection surgery followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Due to the tumors invasive nature, recurrences are almost a certainty, giving the patients after diagnosis only a 12–15 months average survival time. Therefore, there is a dire need of finding new therapies that could potentially improve patient outcomes. Ferroptosis is a newly described form of cell death with several implications in cancer, among which GBM. Agents that target different molecules involved in ferroptosis and that stimulate this process have been described as potentially adjuvant anti-cancer treatment options. In GBM, ferroptosis stimulation inhibits tumor growth, improves patient survival, and increases the efficacy of radiation and chemotherapy. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge regarding ferroptosis modulation in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei-Otto Mitre
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-O.M.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Alexandru Ioan Florian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department, of Neurosurgery, Emergency County Hospital, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrei Buruiana
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Armand Boer
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-O.M.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Ioana Moldovan
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-O.M.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Olga Soritau
- Research Department, Prof. Dr. I. Chiricuta Oncology Institute, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Stefan Ioan Florian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department, of Neurosurgery, Emergency County Hospital, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sergiu Susman
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-O.M.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (S.S.)
- Department of Pathology, IMOGEN Research Center, Louis Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Exploring the Pivotal Neurophysiologic and Therapeutic Potentials of Vitamin C in Glioma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 33598702 PMCID: PMC8691980 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6141591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas represent solely primary brain cancers of glial cell or neuroepithelial origin. Gliomas are still the most lethal human cancers despite modern innovations in both diagnostic techniques as well as therapeutic regimes. Gliomas have the lowest overall survival rate compared to other cancers 5 years after definitive diagnosis. The dietary intake of vitamin C has protective effect on glioma risk. Vitamin C is an essential compound that plays a vital role in the regulation of lysyl and prolyl hydroxylase activity. Neurons store high levels of vitamin C via sodium dependent-vitamin C transporters (SVCTs) to protect them from oxidative ischemia-reperfusion injury. Vitamin C is a water-soluble enzyme, typically seen as a powerful antioxidant in plants as well as animals. The key function of vitamin C is the inhibition of redox imbalance from reactive oxygen species produced via the stimulation of glutamate receptors. Gliomas absorb vitamin C primarily via its oxidized dehydroascorbate form by means of GLUT 1, 3, and 4 and its reduced form, ascorbate, by SVCT2. Vitamin C is able to preserve prosthetic metal ions like Fe2+ and Cu+ in their reduced forms in several enzymatic reactions as well as scavenge free radicals in order to safeguard tissues from oxidative damage. Therapeutic concentrations of vitamin C are able to trigger H2O2 generation in glioma. High-dose combination of vitamin C and radiation has a much more profound cytotoxic effect on primary glioblastoma multiforme cells compared to normal astrocytes. Control trials are needed to validate the use of vitamin C and standardization of the doses of vitamin C in the treatment of patients with glioma.
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Chemical hybridization of sulfasalazine and dihydroartemisinin promotes brain tumor cell death. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20766. [PMID: 34675351 PMCID: PMC8531376 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99960-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are primary brain tumors with still poor prognosis for the patients despite a combination of cytoreduction via surgery followed by a radio-chemotherapy. One strategy to find effective treatment is to combine two different compounds in one hybrid molecule via linker to add to or at best potentiate their impact on malignant cells. Here, we report on the effects of a newly synthesized hybrid of sulfasalazine (SAS) and dihydroartemisinin (DHA), called AC254. In previous studies, both SAS and DHA have already proved to have anti-tumor properties themselves and to have sensitizing respectively potentiating effects on other treatments against malignant tumors. We investigated the impact of individual drugs SAS and DHA, their 1:1 combination and a novel SAS-DHA hybrid compound (AC254) on rodent and human glioma cells. In our study SAS alone showed no or only a mild effect on glioma, whereas DHA led to a significant reduction of cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Next we compared the efficacy of the hybrid AC254 to the combinational treatment of its parent compounds SAS and DHA. The hybrid was highly efficient in combating glioma cells compared to single treatment strategies regarding cell viability and cell death. Interestingly, AC254 showed a remarkable advantage over the combinational treatment with both parent compounds in most used concentrations. In addition to its reduction of tumor cell viability and induction of cell death, the hybrid AC254 displayed changes in cell cycle and reduction of cell migration. Taken together, these results demonstrate that clinically established compounds such as SAS and DHA can be potentiated in their anti-cancer effects by chemical hybridization. Thus, this concept provides the opportunity to devise new effective chemotherapeutic agents.
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Medeiros M, Candido MF, Valera ET, Brassesco MS. The multifaceted NF-kB: are there still prospects of its inhibition for clinical intervention in pediatric central nervous system tumors? Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6161-6200. [PMID: 34333711 PMCID: PMC11072991 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03906-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the basic biology and pathogenesis of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, patients still have an extremely unfavorable prognosis. Over the years, a plethora of natural and synthetic compounds has emerged for the pharmacologic intervention of the NF-kB pathway, one of the most frequently dysregulated signaling cascades in human cancer with key roles in cell growth, survival, and therapy resistance. Here, we provide a review about the state-of-the-art concerning the dysregulation of this hub transcription factor in the most prevalent pediatric CNS tumors: glioma, medulloblastoma, and ependymoma. Moreover, we compile the available literature on the anti-proliferative effects of varied NF-kB inhibitors acting alone or in combination with other therapies in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials. As the wealth of basic research data continues to accumulate, recognizing NF-kB as a therapeutic target may provide important insights to treat these diseases, hopefully contributing to increase cure rates and lower side effects related to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Medeiros
- Department of Cell Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Ferreira Candido
- Department of Cell Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elvis Terci Valera
- Department of Pediatrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - María Sol Brassesco
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, FFCLRP-USP, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Bairro Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, CEP 14040-901, Brazil.
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Lange F, Hörnschemeyer J, Kirschstein T. Glutamatergic Mechanisms in Glioblastoma and Tumor-Associated Epilepsy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051226. [PMID: 34067762 PMCID: PMC8156732 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The progression of glioblastomas is associated with a variety of neurological impairments, such as tumor-related epileptic seizures. Seizures are not only a common comorbidity of glioblastoma but often an initial clinical symptom of this cancer entity. Both, glioblastoma and tumor-associated epilepsy are closely linked to one another through several pathophysiological mechanisms, with the neurotransmitter glutamate playing a key role. Glutamate interacts with its ionotropic and metabotropic receptors to promote both tumor progression and excitotoxicity. In this review, based on its physiological functions, our current understanding of glutamate receptors and glutamatergic signaling will be discussed in detail. Furthermore, preclinical models to study glutamatergic interactions between glioma cells and the tumor-surrounding microenvironment will be presented. Finally, current studies addressing glutamate receptors in glioma and tumor-related epilepsy will be highlighted and future approaches to interfere with the glutamatergic network are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falko Lange
- Oscar-Langendorff-Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147 Rostock, Germany
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Julia Hörnschemeyer
- Oscar-Langendorff-Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Timo Kirschstein
- Oscar-Langendorff-Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147 Rostock, Germany
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (T.K.)
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Zhuang J, Liu X, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Guan G. Sulfasalazine, a potent suppressor of gastric cancer proliferation and metastasis by inhibition of xCT: Conventional drug in new use. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:5372-5380. [PMID: 33988296 PMCID: PMC8184680 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the role of sulfasalazine on proliferation and metastasis in gastric cancer by inhibition of xCT. The relationships between clinical characteristics and xCT expression were analysed. An immunohistochemical staining assay and Western blot were performed among gastric cancers and normal gastric tissues. qPCR and Western blot were also used to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression in the normal gastric cell and eight gastric cancer cells, respectively. CCK‐8 and colony formation assays were used to evaluate the effect of sulfasalazine on the proliferation and colony formation ability of three gastric cancers. The effect of sulfasalazine on the migration and invasion abilities of three cancer cells was assessed by the Transwell assay. xCT protein is up‐regulated in gastric cancer specimens and cells. Three gastric cancer cells with high, medium and low expression of xCT were selected for the following analyses. CCK‐8 assays revealed that sulfasalazine could attenuate the proliferation of HGC‐27 and AGS. Also, the colony formation assay revealed that sulfasalazine might attenuate the colony formation ability in HGC‐27 and AGS cells. Plus, the Transwell assays demonstrated that sulfasalazine might attenuate the migration and invasion abilities in HGC‐27 and AGS cells. In conclusion, higher expression of xCT is associated with advanced tumour stage and poor overall survival of gastric cancer. Sulfasalazine can attenuate the proliferation, colony formation, metastasis and invasion of gastric cancer in vitro. Further study is required to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfu Zhuang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yuanfeng Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yiyi Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guoxian Guan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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12
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Shamaa MM. Sulfasalazine synergistically enhances the inhibitory effects of imatinib against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells by targeting NFκB, BCR/ABL, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway-related proteins. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 11:588-597. [PMID: 33289342 PMCID: PMC7931239 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related fatalities worldwide. Identification of second-line therapies for patients with progressive HCC is urgently required as the use of sorafenib and/or regorafenib remains unsatisfactory. Imatinib, a small-molecule kinase inhibitor, is used to treat certain types of cancer, and nuclear factor κB (NFκB) is a positive regulator of cancer cell expansion. The combined use of tyrosine kinase and NFκB inhibitors may have potential for treating HCC. The aim of this work was to assess the potential anticarcinogenic effects of imatinib and sulfasalazine alone or in combination on the human HCC cell lines HEPG2 and Huh-7. Both drugs were shown to affect the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B, phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of translation (p-STAT-3), breakpoint cluster region protein/Abelson proto-oncogene and NFκB pathways. At the transcriptional level, imatinib and sulfasalazine were found to synergistically down-regulate c-MET gene expression. When compared with the activities of either medication alone, combined use of imatinib and sulfasalazine enhanced inhibition of HCC cell proliferation and extended induction of apoptosis. In summary, the presented data suggest that sulfasalazine synergistically potentiates the antitumor effects of imatinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marium M. Shamaa
- Clinical and Biological Sciences (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) Department, College of PharmacyArab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime TransportAlexandriaEgypt
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13
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Valproic Acid Sensitizes Glioma Cells to Luteolin Through Induction of Apoptosis and Autophagy via Akt Signaling. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 41:1625-1634. [PMID: 32719967 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00930-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glioma is a highly malignant type of intracranial tumor with a poor prognosis resulting from traditional chemo-resistance with temozolomide (TMZ). Luteolin has been detected to exert limited anti-tumor effects on gliomas, while valproic acid (VPA) is a common chemotherapy sensitizer in the treatment of tumors. In this study, three glioma cell lines including U251, LN229 and SNB19 were selected for evaluation of combined anti-tumor effects of VPA and luteolin via Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, colony formation assay, wound-healing assay, flow cytometry and western blot assay. The results disclosed that VPA sensitized glioma cells to luteolin by repressing cell viability, colony formation and migration. Mechanically, VPA boosted cellular apoptosis and cell-cycle arrest by increased level of cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3, cleaved PARP/PARP and Bax/Bcl-2. In addition, VPA also facilitated cellular autophagy via the decline of p62, p-Akt/Akt and the accumulation of LC3-II. These findings suggested that VPA enhanced the anticancer effects of luteolin by strengthening apoptosis and autophagy via Akt signaling, which could be adopted as a novel therapy for glioma.
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14
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Dawood M, Hegazy MEF, Elbadawi M, Fleischer E, Klinger A, Bringmann G, Kuntner C, Shan L, Efferth T. Vitamin K 3 chloro derivative (VKT-2) inhibits HDAC6, activates autophagy and apoptosis, and inhibits aggresome formation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 180:114176. [PMID: 32721508 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics plays a vital role in regulating gene expression and determining the specific phenotypes of eukaryotic cells. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are important epigenetic regulatory proteins effecting multiple biological functions. Particularly, HDAC6 has become a promising anti-cancer drug target because of its regulation of cell mobility, protein trafficking, degradation of misfolded proteins, cell growth, apoptosis, and metastasis. In this study, we identified one out of six vitamin K3 derivatives, VKT-2, as HDAC6 inhibitor using molecular docking and cell viability assays in HDAC6-overexpressing HuH-7 cancer cells. Microscale thermophoresis and HDAC6 enzymatic assays revealed that VKT-2 bound to HDAC6 and inhibited its function. We further identified its cytotoxic activity. VKT-2 hyperacetylated HDAC6 substrates and disturbed tubulin integrity leading to significant inhibition of tumor migration in both HuH-7 spheroids and U2OS-GFP-α-tubulin cells. Moreover, VKT-2 induced autophagic and apoptotic cell death in HuH-7, while aggresome formation was restrained after VKT-2 treatment. A HuH-7 cell-xenograft model in zebrafish larvae provided evidence that VKT-2 inhibited the tumor growth in vivo. To best of our knowledge, it is the first time to demonstrate that vitamin k3 derivatives (VKT-2) inhibits HDAC6 in solid tumor cells. These unique findings suggested that VKT-2 is a promising anti-cancer agent targeting HDAC6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Dawood
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Al-Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mohamed-Elamir F Hegazy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elbadawi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | - Gerhard Bringmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Kuntner
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Preclinical Molecular Imaging, Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Letian Shan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
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15
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Dawood M, Elbadawi M, Böckers M, Bringmann G, Efferth T. Molecular docking-based virtual drug screening revealing an oxofluorenyl benzamide and a bromonaphthalene sulfonamido hydroxybenzoic acid as HDAC6 inhibitors with cytotoxicity against leukemia cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 129:110454. [PMID: 32768947 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
HDAC6 is a crucial epigenetic modifier that plays a vital role in tumor progression and carcinogenesis due to its multiple biological functions. It is a unique member of class-II HDAC enzymes. It possesses two catalytic domains, which function independently of the overall enzyme activity. Up to date, there are only a few selective HDAC6 inhibitors with anti-cancer activity. In this study, 175,204 ligands obtained from the ZINC15 and OTAVAchemical databases were used for virtual drug screening against HDAC6. Molecular docking studies were performed for 100 selected compounds. Furthermore, the top 10 compounds obtained from docking were tested for their efficacy to inhibit the function of HDAC6. Five compounds (N-(9-oxo-9H-fluoren-3-yl)benzamide, 2-hydroxy-5-[(5-oxo-6-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,2,4-triazin-3-yl)amino]benzoic acid, 5-(4-bromonaphthalene-1-sulfonamido)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid, 2-(naphthalen-2-yl)-N-(1H-1,2,3,4-tetrazol-5-yl)cyclopropane-1-carboxamide, and 4-oxa-5,6 diazapentacyclo[10.7.1.0³,⁷.0⁸,²⁰.0¹⁴,¹⁹]icosa-1,3(7),5,8(20),9,11,14,16,18-nonaen-13-one) inhibited enzymatic activity by more than 50 % compared to DMSO as the control. Two candidates, (N-(9-oxo-9H-fluoren-3-yl)benzamide and 5-(4-bromonaphthalene-1-sulfonamido)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid), were identified with considerable cytotoxicity towards drug-sensitive CCRF-CEM and multidrug-resistant CEM/ADR5000 leukemia cells. Microscale thermophoresis revealed the binding of N-(9-oxo-9H-fluoren-3-yl)benzamide and 5-(4-bromonaphthalene-1-sulfonamido)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid to purified HDAC6 protein. Both compounds induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner as analyzed by flow cytometry. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that these two compounds bind to HDAC6, inhibit its function, and exert cytotoxic activity by apoptosis induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Dawood
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mohamed Elbadawi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Madeleine Böckers
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Gerhard Bringmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
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16
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The Anti-Tumorigenic Activity of Sema3C in the Chick Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane Model. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225672. [PMID: 31726800 PMCID: PMC6888630 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sema3C protein, a member of the class 3 family of secreted semaphorins, play an important role in tumor development by regulating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis processes. Depending on the type and malignancy grade of the tumor, Sema3C function remains controversial. In this study, we constructed a stably overexpressing Sema3C glioblastoma cell line U87 MG and tested it on the chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model with the aim to reveal Sema3C protein function on angiogenesis process in ovo. Our experiments showed that Sema3C not only affects angiogenesis of CAM by inhibiting neovascularization but also acts as an anti-tumorigenic molecule by hampering U87 MG cell invasion into mesenchyme. The effects of Sema3C on CAM were similar to the effects of anti-epileptic drug sodium valproate (NaVP). Both, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic activities of Sema3C were enhanced by the treatment of NaVP and, importantly, were not attributed to the cytotoxic effects. Our studies suggest that Sema3C could be a promising target for glioblastoma treatment.
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17
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Hypoxia-derived exosomes induce putative altered pathways in biosynthesis and ion regulatory channels in glioblastoma cells. Biochem Biophys Rep 2018; 14:104-113. [PMID: 29872742 PMCID: PMC5986551 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia, a hallmark characteristic of glioblastoma (GBM) induces changes in the transcriptome and the proteome of tumor cells. We discovered that hypoxic stress produces significant qualitative and quantitative changes in the protein content of secreted exosomes from GBM cells. Among the proteins found to be selectively elevated in hypoxic exosomes were protein-lysine 6-oxidase (LOX), thrombospondin-1 (TSP1), vascular derived endothelial factor (VEGF) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1), well studied contributors to tumor progression, metastasis and angiogenesis. Our findings demonstrate that hypoxic exosomes induce differential gene expression in recipient glioma cells. Glioma cells stimulated with hypoxic exosomes showed a marked upregulation of small nucleolar RNA, C/D box 116–21 (SNORD116-21) transcript among others while significantly downregulated the potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 3 (KCNJ3) message. This differential expression of certain genes is governed by the protein cargo being transferred via exosomes. Additionally, compared to normoxic exosomes, hypoxic exosomes increased various angiogenic related parameters vis-à-vis, overall tube length, branching intervals and length of isolated branches studied in tube formation assay with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Thus, the intercellular communication facilitated via exosomes secreted from hypoxic GBM cells induce marked changes in the expression of genes in neighboring normoxic tumor cells and possibly in surrounding stromal cells, many of which are involved in cancer progression and treatment resistance mechanisms. In GBM, hypoxic stress induces profound changes in the protein content of secreted exosomes. Hypoxic exosomal contents induce angiogenesis and significant changes in recipient GBM cell transcriptome. Hypoxic exosomes play a major role leading to tumor proliferation, tumor growth and cell survival.
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