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Lou QM, Lai FF, Li JW, Mao KJ, Wan HT, He Y. Mechanisms of cuproptosis and its relevance to distinct diseases. Apoptosis 2024; 29:981-1006. [PMID: 38824478 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-024-01983-0] [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] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Copper is a trace element required by the organism, but once the level of copper exceeds the threshold, it becomes toxic and even causes death. The underlying mechanisms of copper-induced death are inconclusive, with different studies showing different opinions on the mechanism of copper-induced death. Multiple investigations have shown that copper induces oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, nucleolar stress, and proteasome inhibition, all of which can result in cell death. The latest research elucidates a copper-dependent death and denominates it as cuproptosis. Cuproptosis takes place through the combination of copper and lipoylated proteins of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, triggering agglomeration of lipoylated proteins and loss of iron-sulfur cluster proteins, leading to proteotoxic stress and ultimately death. Given the toxicity and necessity of copper, abnormal levels of copper lead to diseases such as neurological diseases and cancer. The development of cancer has a high demand for copper, neurological diseases involve the change of copper contents and the binding of copper to proteins. There is a close relationship between these two kinds of diseases and copper. Here, we summarize the mechanisms of copper-related death, and the association between copper and diseases, to better figure out the influence of copper in cell death and diseases, thus advancing the clinical remedy of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Mei Lou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Fei-Fan Lai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jing-Wei Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Kun-Jun Mao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Hai-Tong Wan
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yu He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Abulimiti M, Jia ZY, Wu Y, Yu J, Gong YH, Guan N, Xiong DQ, Ding N, Uddin N, Wang J. Exploring and clinical validation of prognostic significance and therapeutic implications of copper homeostasis-related gene dysregulation in acute myeloid leukemia. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:2797-2826. [PMID: 38879648 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05841-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The patterns and biological functions of copper homeostasis-related genes (CHRGs) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain unclear. We explored the patterns and biological functions of CHRGs in AML. Using independent cohorts, including TCGA-GTEx, GSE114868, GSE37642, and clinical samples, we identified 826 common differentially expressed genes. Specifically, 12 cuproptosis-related genes (e.g., ATP7A, ATP7B) were upregulated, while 17 cuproplasia-associated genes (e.g., ATOX1, ATP7A) were downregulated in AML. We used LASSO-Cox, Kaplan-Meier, and Nomogram analyses to establish prognostic risk models, effectively stratifying patients with AML into high- and low-risk groups. Subgroup analysis revealed that high-risk patients exhibited poorer overall survival and involvement in fatty acid metabolism, apoptosis, and glycolysis. Immune infiltration analysis indicated differences in immune cell composition, with notable increases in B cells, cytotoxic T cells, and memory T cells in the low-risk group, and increased monocytes and neutrophils in the high-risk group. Single-cell sequencing analysis corroborated the expression characteristics of critical CHRGs, such as MAPK1 and ATOX1, associated with the function of T, B, and NK cells. Drug sensitivity analysis suggested potential therapeutic agents targeting copper homeostasis, including Bicalutamide and Sorafenib. PCR validation confirmed the differential expression of 4 cuproptosis-related genes (LIPT1, SLC31A1, GCSH, and PDHA1) and 9 cuproplasia-associated genes (ATOX1, CCS, CP, MAPK1, SOD1, COA6, PDK1, DBH, and PDE3B) in AML cell line. Importantly, these genes serve as potential biomarkers for patient stratification and treatment. In conclusion, we shed light on the expression patterns and biological functions of CHRGs in AML. The developed risk models provided prognostic implications for patient survival, offering valuable information on the regulatory characteristics of CHRGs and potential avenues for personalized treatment in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zheng-Yi Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Yun Wu
- Department of General Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Teaching and Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Yue-Hong Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Clinical Drug Research, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Na Guan
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Dai-Qin Xiong
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Clinical Drug Research, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Nan Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Clinical Drug Research, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Nazim Uddin
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China.
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Clinical Drug Research, Urumqi, 830011, China.
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Zhang K, Li G, Wang Q, Liu X, Chen H, Li F, Li S, Song X, Li Y. A disulfidptosis-related glucose metabolism and immune response prognostic model revealing the immune microenvironment in lung adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1398802. [PMID: 39091494 PMCID: PMC11291233 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1398802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Lung adenocarcinoma accounts for the majority of lung cancer cases and impact survival rate of patients severely. Immunotherapy is an effective treatment for lung adenocarcinoma but is restricted by many factors including immune checkpoint expression and the inhibitory immune microenvironment. This study aimed to explore the immune microenvironment in lung adenocarcinoma via disulfidptosis. Methods Public datasets of lung adenocarcinoma from the TCGA and GEO was adopted as the training and validation cohort. Based on the differences in the expression of disulfidptosis -related genes, a glucose metabolism and immune response prognostic model was constructed. The prognostic value and clinical relationship of the model were further explored. Immune-related analyses were performed according to CIBERSORT, ssGSEA, TIDE, IPS. Results We verified that the model could accurately predict the survival expectancy of lung adenocarcinoma patients. Patients with lung adenocarcinoma and a low-risk score had better survival outcomes according to the model. Moreover, the high-risk group tended to have an immunosuppressive effect, as reflected by the immune cell components, phenotypes and functions. We also found that the clinically relevant immune checkpoint CTLA-4 was significantly higher in low-risk group (P<0.05), indicating that the high-risk group may suffer worse tumor immunotherapy efficacy. Finally, we found that this model has accurate predictive value for the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in non-small cell lung cancer (P<0.05). Conclusion The prognostic model demonstrated the feasibility of predicting survival and immunotherapy efficacy via disulfidptosis-related genes and will facilitate the development of personalized anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhang
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Gang Li
- Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Fuqiang Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
| | - Shuangyan Li
- Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xinmao Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Oncology, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming, China
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Zhao Z, Miao Z, Hou Y, Zhong Y, Zhang X, Fang X. A novel signature constructed by cuproptosis-related RNA methylation regulators suggesting downregulation of YTHDC2 may induce cuproptosis resistance in colorectal cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 139:112691. [PMID: 39029230 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112691] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A newly identified type of cell death due to intracellular copper accumulation is known as cuproptosis and RNA methylation is a post-transcriptional modification mechanism, both of which perform vital roles in the immune microenvironment of colorectal cancer (CRC), but the link between the two needs more research. METHODS TCGA database provided RNA-seq data and details clinically of CRC samples. Cuproptosis-related RNA methylation regulators (CRRMRs) were identified by correlation analysis. We screened 6 CRRMRs for prognostic model construction by employing LASSO-Cox regression analysis and calculated risk scores by CRRMRs (CuMS). GSE39582 and GSE38832 cohort were used as external validation sets. This research concentrated on the connection between the prognostic model and somatic mutation, anti-cancer drug sensitivity, immune infiltration, immune checkpoint expression. In addition, we investigated the differential expression of YTHDC2 in epithelial cell subpopulations by single-cell analysis with GSE166555, calculated cuproptosis scores and performed pathway enrichment. In vitro experiments were performed to explore the consequences of knockdown of YTHDC2 on CRC cell proliferation and migration, as well as changes in CRC cell viability in response to elesclomol after knockdown of YTHDC2. In vivo experiments, we constructed the cell line-derived xenograft model to further validate the results of the in vitro experiments. RESULTS The prognosis of CRC can be predicted by CuMS, which GSE39582 and GSE38832 confirmed. Two CuMS groups showed different tumor mutation burden (TMB) and immune infiltration. CuMS was connected to emerging immune checkpoints CD47 and PVR, therefore, it can be clinically complementary to TMB and microsatellite instability (MSI) status. In single-cell analysis, a subpopulation of epithelial cells with high YTHDC2 expression had a high cuproptosis score. In vitro experiments, knocking down YTHDC2 promoted cell proliferation and migration in CRC, and weaken the inhibitory effect of elesclomol and elesclomol-Cu on cell viability, which in vivo experiments validated. CONCLUSION We developed a prognostic model constructed by 6 CRRMRs to assess overall survival and immune microenvironment of CRC patients. YTHDC2 might regulate cuproptosis in multiple ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkai Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Sendai Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Zeyu Miao
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, No. 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuyang Hou
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, No. 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yifan Zhong
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, No. 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Xiaorong Zhang
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, No. 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126 Sendai Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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Liu F, Yang T, Chang X, Chen L, Cheng C, Peng X, Liu H, Zhang Y, Chen X. Intelligent gold nanocluster for effective treatment of malignant tumor via tumor-specific photothermal-chemodynamic therapy with AIE guidance. Natl Sci Rev 2024; 11:nwae113. [PMID: 38698903 PMCID: PMC11065357 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Precise and efficient therapy of malignant tumors is always a challenge. Herein, gold nanoclusters co-modified by aggregation-induced-emission (AIE) molecules, copper ion chelator (acylthiourea) and tumor-targeting agent (folic acid) were fabricated to perform AIE-guided and tumor-specific synergistic therapy with great spatio-temporal controllability for the targeted elimination and metastasis inhibition of malignant tumors. During therapy, the functional gold nanoclusters (AuNTF) would rapidly accumulate in the tumor tissue due to the enhanced permeability and retention effect as well as folic acid-mediated tumor targeting, which was followed by endocytosis by tumor cells. After that, the overexpressed copper ions in the tumor cells would trigger the aggregation of these intracellular AuNTF via a chelation process that not only generated the photothermal agent in situ to perform the tumor-specific photothermal therapy damaging the primary tumor, but also led to the copper deficiency of tumor cells to inhibit its metastasis. Moreover, the copper ions were reduced to cuprous ions along with the chelation, which further catalysed the excess H2O2 in the tumor cells to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species, resulting in additional chemodynamic therapy for enhanced antitumor efficiency. The aggregation of AuNTF also activated the AIE molecules to present fluorescence, which not only imaged the therapeutic area for real-time monitoring of this tumor-specific synergistic therapy, but also allowed us to perform near-infrared radiation at the correct time point and location to achieve optimal photothermal therapy. Both in vitro and in vivo results revealed the strong tumor elimination, effective metastasis inhibition and high survival rate of tumor-bearing mice after treatment using the AuNTF nanoclusters, indicating that this AIE-guided and tumor-specific synergistic strategy could offer a promising approach for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Liu
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Tianfeng Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xiaowei Chang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xiuhong Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Haihu Liu
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Energy Chemical Process Intensification, Institute of Polymer Science in Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
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Bao Q, Zeng Y, Lou Q, Feng X, Jiang S, Lu J, Ruan B. Clinical significance of RNA methylation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:204. [PMID: 38566136 PMCID: PMC10986096 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01595-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver malignancy with high mortality rates and poor prognosis. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic technologies have greatly enhanced the understanding of the genetic and epigenetic changes in liver cancer. Among these changes, RNA methylation, the most prevalent internal RNA modification, has emerged as a significant contributor of the development and progression of HCC. Growing evidence has reported significantly abnormal levels of RNA methylation and dysregulation of RNA-methylation-related enzymes in HCC tissues and cell lines. These alterations in RNA methylation play a crucial role in the regulation of various genes and signaling pathways involved in HCC, thereby promoting tumor progression. Understanding the pathogenesis of RNA methylation in HCC would help in developing prognostic biomarkers and targeted therapies for HCC. Targeting RNA-methylation-related molecules has shown promising potential in the management of HCC, in terms of developing novel prognostic biomarkers and therapies for HCC. Exploring the clinical application of targeted RNA methylation may provide new insights and approaches for the management of HCC. Further research in this field is warranted to fully understand the functional roles and underlying mechanisms of RNA methylation in HCC. In this review, we described the multifaceted functional roles and potential mechanisms of RNA methylation in HCC. Moreover, the prospects of clinical application of targeted RNA methylation for HCC management are discussed, which may provide the basis for subsequent in-depth research on RNA methylation in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongling Bao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Qizhuo Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Xuewen Feng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Juan Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China.
| | - Bing Ruan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China.
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Jing M, Xiong X, Mao X, Song Q, Zhang L, Ouyang Y, Pang Y, Fu Y, Yan W. HMGB1 promotes mitochondrial transfer between hepatocellular carcinoma cells through RHOT1 and RAC1 under hypoxia. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:155. [PMID: 38378644 PMCID: PMC10879213 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06536-6] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial transfer plays an important role in various diseases, and many mitochondrial biological functions can be regulated by HMGB1. To explore the role of mitochondrial transfer in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its relationship with HMGB1, field emission scanning electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry were used to detect the mitochondrial transfer between HCC cells. We found that mitochondrial transfer between HCC cells was confirmed using tunnel nanotubes (TNTs). The transfer of mitochondria from the highly invasive HCC cells to the less invasive HCC cells could enhance the migration and invasion ability of the latter. The hypoxic conditions increased the mitochondrial transfer between HCC cells. Then the mechanism was identified using co-immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation. We found that RHOT1, a mitochondrial transport protein, promoted mitochondrial transfer and the migration and metastasis of HCC cells during this process. Under hypoxia, HMGB1 further regulated RHOT1 expression by increasing the expression of NFYA and NFYC subunits of the NF-Y complex. RAC1, a protein associated with TNTs formation, promoted mitochondrial transfer and HCC development. Besides, HMGB1 regulated RAC1 aggregation to the cell membrane under hypoxia. Finally, the changes and significance of related molecules in clinical samples of HCC were analyzed using bioinformatics and tissue microarray analyses. We found that HCC patients with high HMGB1, RHOT1, or RAC1 expression exhibited a relatively shorter overall survival period. In conclusion, under hypoxic conditions, HMGB1 promoted mitochondrial transfer and migration and invasion of HCC cells by increasing the expression of mitochondrial transport protein RHOT1 and TNTs formation-related protein RAC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjia Jing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xiong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xin Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qianben Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lumiao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yiming Ouyang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yingzhi Pang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Li X, Deng X, Liu T, Zhang W, Tao J. Disulfideptosis-associated lncRNAs reveal features of prognostic, immune escape, tumor mutation, and tumor malignant progression in renal clear cell carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:3280-3301. [PMID: 38334964 PMCID: PMC10929831 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigating the role of lncRNAs associated with the latest cell death mode (Disulfideptosis) in renal clear cell carcinoma, as well as their correlation with tumor prognosis, immune escape, immune checkpoints, tumor mutational burden, and malignant tumor progression. Searching for potential biomarkers and targets for renal clear cell carcinoma. METHODS Downloaded the expression profile data and clinical data of 533 cases of renal clear cell carcinoma from the TCGA database, and randomly divided them into a test set (267 cases) and a validation set (266 cases). Based on previous research, 13 genes associated with Disulfideptosis were obtained. Using R software, lncRNAs with a differential expression that is related to the prognosis of renal clear cell carcinoma and associated with Disulfideptosis were screened out. After univariate Cox regression analysis, Lasso regression analysis, and multivariate Cox regression analysis, lncRNAs with independent predictive ability were obtained. A predictive risk model was established based on the risk scores. Verification was carried out between the obtained high-risk and low-risk groups and their subgroups (including Age, Gender, tumor mutational burden (TMB), tumor grading, and staging). Subsequently, a nomogram was established, and a calibration curve was generated for verification. Performed GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) functional enrichment analyses. Downloaded the values of Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) for all samples and calculated the difference between the high and low-risk groups. Selected human renal tumor cell lines (786-O, OS-RC-2, A-498, ACHN) and human renal cortex proximal tubule epithelial cell line (HK-2). The RNA expression levels of the above lncRNAs in each cell line were analyzed using RT-qPCR (Real-time Quantitative PCR Detecting System). Used siRNA (small interfering RNA) to knock down FAM225B in 786-O and OS-RC-2 cell lines, and then performed in vitro cell experiments to validate the functional characteristics of FAM225B. RESULTS Our constructed predictive model includes 5 lncRNAs with an independent predictive ability (FAM225B, ZNF503-AS1, SPINT1-AS1, WWC2-AS2, LINC01338), which can effectively distinguish between patients in high and low-risk groups and their subgroups. The 1, 3, and 5-year AUC (Area Under the ROC Curve) values of the established nomogram are 0.756, 0.752, and 0.781, respectively. The 5-year AUC value is higher compared to other clinical characteristics (Age: 0.598, Gender: 0.488, Grade: 0.680, Stage: 0.717). After the knockdown of FAM225B, the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of renal cancer cell lines OS-RC-2 and 786-O all decreased. CONCLUSION We have constructed and validated a prognostic model based on Disulfideptosis-associated lncRNAs. This model can effectively predict the high or low risk of patient prognosis and can distinguish the tumor cell mutational burden and immune escape capabilities among high-risk and low-risk patients. This predictive model can serve as an independent prognostic factor for renal clear cell carcinoma, providing a new direction for personalized treatment of patients with renal clear cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xungang Li
- Department of Urology, Jiu Jiang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Xinxi Deng
- Department of Urology, Jiu Jiang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Taobin Liu
- Department of Urology, Jiu Jiang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Wensheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, Jiu Jiang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Jin Tao
- Department of Pediatric, Jiujiang University Affiliated Hospital, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332000, P.R. China
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Himoto T, Masaki T. Current Trends on the Involvement of Zinc, Copper, and Selenium in the Process of Hepatocarcinogenesis. Nutrients 2024; 16:472. [PMID: 38398797 PMCID: PMC10892613 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous nutritional factors increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. The dysregulation of zinc, copper, and selenium homeostasis is associated with the occurrence of HCC. The impairment of the homeostasis of these essential trace elements results in oxidative stress, DNA damage, cell cycle progression, and angiogenesis, finally leading to hepatocarcinogenesis. These essential trace elements can affect the microenvironment in HCC. The carrier proteins for zinc and copper and selenium-containing enzymes play important roles in the prevention or progression of HCC. These trace elements enhance or alleviate the chemosensitivity of anticancer agents in patients with HCC. The zinc, copper, or selenium may affect the homeostasis of other trace elements with each other. Novel types of cell death including ferropotosis and cupropotosis are also associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. Therapeutic strategies for HCC that target these carrier proteins for zinc and copper or selenium-containing enzymes have been developed in in vitro and in vivo studies. The use of zinc-, copper- or selenium-nanoparticles has been considered as novel therapeutic agents for HCC. These results indicate that zinc, copper, and selenium may become promising therapeutic targets in patients with HCC. The clinical application of these agents is an urgent unmet requirement. This review article highlights the correlation between the dysregulation of the homeostasis of these essential trace elements and the development of HCC and summarizes the current trends on the roles of these essential trace elements in the pathogenesis of hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Himoto
- Department of Medical Technology, Kagawa Prefectural University of Health Sciences, 281-1, Hara, Mure-cho, Takamatsu 761-0123, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Masaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, 1750-1, Ikenobe, Miki-cho 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
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Wu Q, Fu X, He X, Liu J, Li Y, Ou C. Experimental prognostic model integrating N6-methyladenosine-related programmed cell death genes in colorectal cancer. iScience 2024; 27:108720. [PMID: 38299031 PMCID: PMC10829884 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) intricacies, involving dysregulated cellular processes and programmed cell death (PCD), are explored in the context of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification. Utilizing the TCGA-COADREAD/CRC cohort, 854 m6A-related PCD genes are identified, forming the basis for a robust 10-gene risk model (CDRS) established through LASSO Cox regression. qPCR experiments using CRC cell lines and fresh tissues was performed for validation. The CDRS served as an independent risk factor for CRC and showed significant associations with clinical features, molecular subtypes, and overall survival in multiple datasets. Moreover, CDRS surpasses other predictors, unveiling distinct genomic profiles, pathway activations, and associations with the tumor microenvironment. Notably, CDRS exhibits predictive potential for drug sensitivity, presenting a novel paradigm for CRC risk stratification and personalized treatment avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihui Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Xiaodan Fu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Departments of Ultrasound Imaging, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jiaxin Liu
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Yimin Li
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410008, China
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Wu Z, Lv G, Xing F, Xiang W, Ma Y, Feng Q, Yang W, Wang H. Copper in hepatocellular carcinoma: A double-edged sword with therapeutic potentials. Cancer Lett 2023; 571:216348. [PMID: 37567461 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Copper is a necessary cofactor vital for maintaining biological functions, as well as participating in the development of cancer. A plethora of studies have demonstrated that copper is a double-edged sword, presenting both benefits and detriments to tumors. The liver is a metabolically active organ, and an imbalance of copper homeostasis can result in deleterious consequences to the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary liver cancer, is a highly aggressive malignancy with limited viable therapeutic options. As research advances, the focus has shifted towards the relationships between copper and HCC. Innovatively, cuproplasia and cuproptosis have been proposed to depict copper-related cellular growth and death, providing new insights for HCC treatment. By summarizing the constantly elucidated molecular connections, this review discusses the mechanisms of copper in the pathogenesis, progression, and potential therapeutics of HCC. Additionally, we aim to tentatively provide a theoretical foundation and gospel for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Wu
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Guishuai Lv
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Fuxue Xing
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Qiyu Feng
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China.
| | - Wen Yang
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China.
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Cancer Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Institute/Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, China.
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Wang R, Xu K, Chen Q, Hu Q, Zhang J, Guan X. Cuproptosis engages in c-Myc-mediated breast cancer stemness. J Transl Med 2023; 21:409. [PMID: 37353799 PMCID: PMC10288777 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04204-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intra-tumoral heterogeneity (ITH) is a distinguished hallmark of cancer, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to this malignant characteristic. Therefore, it is of great significance to investigate and even target the regulatory factors driving intra-tumoral stemness. c-Myc is a vital oncogene frequently overexpressed or amplified in various cancer types, including breast cancer. Our previous study indicated its potential association with breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) biomarkers. METHODS In this research, we performed immunohistochemical (IHC) staining on sixty breast cancer surgical specimens for c-Myc, CD44, CD24, CD133 and ALDH1A1. Then, we analyzed transcriptomic atlas of 1533 patients with breast cancer from public database. RESULTS IHC staining indicated the positive correlation between c-Myc and BCSC phenotype. Then, we used bioinformatic analysis to interrogate transcriptomics data of 1533 breast cancer specimens and identified an intriguing link among c-Myc, cancer stemness and copper-induced cell death (also known as "cuproptosis"). We screened out cuproptosis-related characteristics that predicts poor clinical outcomes and found that the pro-tumoral cuproptosis-based features were putatively enriched in MYC-targets and showed a significantly positive correlation with cancer stemness. CONCLUSION In addition to previous reports on its oncogenic roles, c-Myc showed significant correlation to stemness phenotype and copper-induced cell toxicity in breast cancer tissues. Moreover, transcriptomics data demonstrated that pro-tumoral cuproptosis biomarkers had putative positive association with cancer stemness. This research combined clinical samples with large-scale bioinformatic analysis, covered description and deduction, bridged classic oncogenic mechanisms to innovative opportunities, and inspired the development of copper-based nanomaterials in targeting highly heterogeneous tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runtian Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Kun Xu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Qin Chen
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Phase I Clinical Trial Center, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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