1
|
Ajuwon OR, Nsole-Biteghe FA, Ndong JD, Davids LM, Ajiboye BO, Brai B, Bamisaye FA, Falode JA, Odoh IM, Adegbite KI, Adegoke BO, Ntwasa M, Lebelo SL, Ayeleso AO. Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Response and Drug Efflux Transporters Upregulation as Possible Mechanisms of Resistance in Photodynamic Therapy of Cancers. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:605-627. [PMID: 39131905 PMCID: PMC11313505 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s457749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a groundbreaking approach involving the induction of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) within tumors through visible light activation of photosensitizers (PS) in the presence of molecular oxygen. This innovative therapy has demonstrated success in treating various cancers. While PDT proves highly effective in most solid tumors, there are indications that certain cancers exhibit resistance, and some initially responsive cancers may develop intrinsic or acquired resistance to PDT. The molecular mechanisms underlying this resistance are not fully understood. Recent evidence suggests that, akin to other traditional cancer treatments, the activation of survival pathways, such as the KEAP1/Nrf2 signaling pathway, is emerging as an important mechanism of post-PDT resistance in many cancers. This article explores the dual role of Nrf2, highlighting evidence linking aberrant Nrf2 expression to treatment resistance across a range of cancers. Additionally, it delves into the specific role of Nrf2 in the context of photodynamic therapy for cancers, emphasizing evidence that suggests Nrf2-mediated upregulation of antioxidant responses and induction of drug efflux transporters are potential mechanisms of resistance to PDT in diverse cancer types. Therefore, understanding the specific role(s) of Nrf2 in PDT resistance may pave the way for the development of more effective cancer treatments using PDT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bartholomew Brai
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | | | - John Adeolu Falode
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Ikenna Maximillian Odoh
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
- Medical Center, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti-State, Nigeria
| | - Kabirat Iyabode Adegbite
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Basic Medical and Health Sciences, Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | | | - Monde Ntwasa
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Park 1709, Roodeport, South Africa
| | - Sogolo Lucky Lebelo
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Park 1709, Roodeport, South Africa
| | - Ademola Olabode Ayeleso
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Park 1709, Roodeport, South Africa
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alshehade SA, Almoustafa HA, Alshawsh MA, Chik Z. Flow cytometry-based quantitative analysis of cellular protein expression in apoptosis subpopulations: A protocol. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33665. [PMID: 39040270 PMCID: PMC11260931 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Flow cytometry techniques utilizing dual staining with annexin V and propidium iodide (PI) provide a robust method for quantitatively analyzing apoptosis induction. Annexin V binds phosphatidylserine exposed on the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane during early apoptosis, while PI permeates late apoptotic/necrotic cells. Simultaneous staining allows differentiation of viable, early apoptotic, and late apoptotic/necrotic populations. This approach can be enhanced by using fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies to stain specific proteins, enabling the simultaneous tracking of protein expression changes in defined cell subpopulations during apoptosis. This multiparametric approach provides key insights into signaling regulation and the mechanisms underlying the apoptotic response to cytotoxic treatments. Here we present a protocol that combines annexin V-FITC/PI staining with APC-conjugated antibody labeling in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with doxorubicin. This protocol enables both the quantitative assessment of apoptosis induction and the tracking of decreased CD44 expression from viable to apoptotic cells. This protocol also provides guidelines for appropriate filter selection, compensation controls, gating strategies, and troubleshooting. This robust protocol holds significant potential for elucidating signaling networks involved in apoptosis and therapeutic resistance across various cellular models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salah Abdalrazak Alshehade
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Bio Medical Sciences, MAHSA University, 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hassan A. Almoustafa
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Universiti Malaya Bioequivalence and Testing Centre (UBAT), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed Abdullah Alshawsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Zamri Chik
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Universiti Malaya Bioequivalence and Testing Centre (UBAT), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sheng W, Li B, Sun T, Zhu C, Li Y, Xu W. Icariin‑curcumol promotes ferroptosis in prostate cancer cells through Nrf2/HO‑1 signaling. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:232. [PMID: 38628654 PMCID: PMC11019657 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12519] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a form of regulatory cell death that relies on iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to inhibit tumors. The present study aimed to investigate whether icariin-curcumol could be a novel ferroptosis inducer in tumor inhibition. Various concentrations of icariin-curcumol were used to stimulate prostate cell lines (RWPE-2, PC-3, VCAP and DU145). Small interfering negative control (si-NC) and si-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were used to transfect DU145 cells. Cell viability was determined by using cell counting kit-8. Ferroptosis-related factor levels were analyzed using western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to assess the ferrous (Fe2+), glutathione and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The ROS fluorescence intensity was assessed using flow cytometry. DU145 cells were most sensitive to icariin-curcumol concentration. The Fe2+ content, ROS fluorescence intensity and MDA level gradually increased, while solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) level, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) level, GSH content, Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) decreased with icariin-curcumol in a dose-dependent manner. After si-Nrf2 was transfected, the cell proliferation ability, SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels declined compared with the si-NC group. In contrast to the control group, the icariin + curcumol group showed reductions in Nrf2 and HO-1 levels, cell proliferation, SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels, with an increase in Fe2+ content and ROS fluorescence intensity. Overexpression of Nrf2 reversed the regulation observed in the icariin + curcumol group. Icariin-curcumol induced ferroptosis in PCa cells, mechanistically by inhibiting the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Icariin-curcumol could be used as a new type of ferroptosis inducer to treat PCa effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Sheng
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine and Health Care, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, Hunan 418000, P.R. China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, Hunan 418000, P.R. China
| | - Bonan Li
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Tiansong Sun
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Congxu Zhu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Yingqiu Li
- Medical School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Wenjing Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410021, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dong J, Che J, Wu Y, Deng Y, Jiang X, He Z, Zhang J. Dexmedetomidine promotes colorectal cancer progression via Piwil2 signaling. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00944-8. [PMID: 38592610 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00944-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE α2-adrenoceptor agonist dexmedetomidine (DEX) has been reported to promote tumorigenesis. Stem-cell protein Piwil2 is associated with cancer progression. Whether Piwil2 plays a role in tumor-promoting effects of DEX is unknown. METHODS We examined the expression of Piwil2 in human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines with/without DEX treatment. We also studied the roles of Piwil2 in proliferation, invasion, migration, as well as expressions of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins in DEX-treated in vitro and in vivo CRC models. And the experiments with genetic and pharmacological treatments were conducted to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. RESULTS RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis found Piwil2 is one of most upregulated genes upon DEX treatment in CRC cells. Furthermore, Piwil2 protein levels significantly increased in DEX-treated CRC cancer cells, which promoted proliferation, invasion, and migration in both CRC cell lines and human tumor xenografts model. Mechanistically, DEX increased nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression, which enhanced Piwil2 transcription via binding to its promoter. Furthermore, in vitro experiments with Piwil2 knockdown or Siah2 inhibition indicated that DEX promoted EMT process and tumorigenesis through Siah2/PHD3/HIF1α pathway. The experiments with another α2-adrenoceptor agonist Brimonidine and antagonists yohimbine and atipamezole also suggested the role of Piwil2 signaling in tumor-promoting effects via an α2 adrenoceptor-dependent manner. CONCLUSION DEX promotes CRC progression may via activating α2 adrenoceptor-dependent Nrf2/Piwil2/Siah2 pathway and thus EMT process. Our work provides a novel insight into the mechanism underlying tumor-promoting effects of α2-adrenoceptor agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Ji Che
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Yixu Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Xuliang Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyong He
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, No. 270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fakhrioliaei A, Tanhaei S, Pakmehr S, Noori Shakir M, Qasim MT, Hariri M, Nouhi Kararoudi A, Valilo M. Potential Role of Nrf2, HER2, and ALDH in Cancer Stem Cells: A Narrative Review. J Membr Biol 2024; 257:3-16. [PMID: 38356054 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-024-00307-2] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the main causes of death among humans, second only to cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, numerous studies have been conducted on the pathophysiology of cancer, and it has been established that this disease is developed by a group of stem cells known as cancer stem cells (CSCs). Thus, cancer is considered a stem cell disease; however, there is no comprehensive consensus about the characteristics of these cells. Several different signaling pathways including Notch, Hedgehog, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and WNT/β-catenin pathways cause the self-renewal of CSCs. CSCs change their metabolic pathways in order to access easy energy. Therefore, one of the key objectives of researchers in cancer treatment is to destroy CSCs. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays an essential role in the protection of CSCs from reactive oxygen species (ROS) and chemotherapeutic agents by regulating antioxidants and detoxification enzymes. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a member of the tyrosine kinase receptor family, which contributes to the protection of cancer cells against treatment and implicated in the invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and tumorigenesis. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) are highly active in CSCs and protect the cells against damage caused by active aldehydes through the regulation of aldehyde metabolism. On the other hand, ALDHs promote the formation and maintenance of tumor cells and lead to drug resistance in tumors through the activation of various signaling pathways, such as the ALDH1A1/HIF-1α/VEGF axis and Wnt/β-catenin, as well as changing the intracellular pH value. Given the growing body of information in this field, in the present narrative review, we attempted to shed light on the function of Nrf2, HER2, and ALDH in CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maha Noori Shakir
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, AL-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Maytham T Qasim
- Department of Anesthesia, College of Health and Medical Technology, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Maryam Hariri
- Department of Pathobiology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36832, USA
| | - Alireza Nouhi Kararoudi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mohammad Valilo
- Dpartment of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pelon M, Krzeminski P, Tracz-Gaszewska Z, Misiewicz-Krzeminska I. Factors determining the sensitivity to proteasome inhibitors of multiple myeloma cells. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1351565. [PMID: 38500772 PMCID: PMC10944964 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1351565] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is an incurable cancer that originates from antibody-producing plasma cells. It is characterized by an intrinsic ability to produce large amounts of immunoglobulin-like proteins. The high rate of synthesis makes myeloma cells dependent on protein processing mechanisms related to the proteasome. This dependence made proteasome inhibitors such as bortezomib and carfilzomib one of the most important classes of drugs used in multiple myeloma treatment. Inhibition of the proteasome is associated with alteration of a number of important biological processes leading, in consequence, to inhibition of angiogenesis. The effect of drugs in this group and the degree of patient response to the treatment used is itself an extremely complex process that depends on many factors. At cellular level the change in sensitivity to proteasome inhibitors may be related to differences in the expression level of proteasome subunits, the degree of proteasome loading, metabolic adaptation, transcriptional or epigenetic factors. These are just some of the possibilities that may influence differences in response to proteasome inhibitors. This review describes the main cellular factors that determine the degree of response to proteasome inhibitor drugs, as well as information on the key role of the proteasome and the performance characteristics of the inhibitors that are the mainstay of multiple myeloma treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pelon
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patryk Krzeminski
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Biology Institute, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Tracz-Gaszewska
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Praharaj PP, Singh A, Patra S, Bhutia SK. Co-targeting autophagy and NRF2 signaling triggers mitochondrial superoxide to sensitize oral cancer stem cells for cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 207:72-88. [PMID: 37423560 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cell (CSC) populations are regulated by autophagy, which in turn modulates tumorigenicity and malignancy. In this study, we demonstrated that cisplatin treatment enriches the CSCs population by increasing autophagosome formation and speeding up autophagosome-lysosome fusion by recruiting RAB7 to autolysosomes. Further, cisplatin treatment stimulates lysosomal activity and increases autophagic flux in oral CD44+ cells. Interestingly, both ATG5- and BECN1-dependent autophagy are essential for maintaining cancer stemness, self-renewal, and resistance to cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in oral CD44+ cells. Moreover, we discovered that autophagy-deficient (shATG5 and/or shBECN1) CD44+ cells activates nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 (NRF2) signaling, which in turn reduces the elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) level enhancing cancer stemness. Genetic inhibition of NRF2 (siNRF2) in autophagy-deficient CD44+ cells increases mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) level, reducing cisplatin-resistance CSCs, and pre-treatment with mitoTEMPO [a mitochondria-targeted superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic] lessened the cytotoxic effect enhancing cancer stemness. We also found that inhibiting autophagy (with CQ) and NRF2 signaling (with ML-385) combinedly increases cisplatin cytotoxicity, thereby suppressing the expansion of oral CD44+ cells; this finding has the potential to be clinically applicable in resolving CSC-associated chemoresistance and tumor relapse in oral cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakash P Praharaj
- Cancer and Cell Death Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha, 769008, India
| | - Amruta Singh
- Cancer and Cell Death Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha, 769008, India
| | - Srimanta Patra
- Cancer and Cell Death Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha, 769008, India
| | - Sujit K Bhutia
- Cancer and Cell Death Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha, 769008, India.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aleksandrova Y, Neganova M. Deciphering the Mysterious Relationship between the Cross-Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative and Oncological Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14766. [PMID: 37834214 PMCID: PMC10573395 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914766] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between oncological pathologies and neurodegenerative disorders is extremely complex and is a topic of concern among a growing number of researchers around the world. In recent years, convincing scientific evidence has accumulated that indicates the contribution of a number of etiological factors and pathophysiological processes to the pathogenesis of these two fundamentally different diseases, thus demonstrating an intriguing relationship between oncology and neurodegeneration. In this review, we establish the general links between three intersecting aspects of oncological pathologies and neurodegenerative disorders, i.e., oxidative stress, epigenetic dysregulation, and metabolic dysfunction, examining each process in detail to establish an unusual epidemiological relationship. We also focus on reviewing the current trends in the research and the clinical application of the most promising chemical structures and therapeutic platforms that have a modulating effect on the above processes. Thus, our comprehensive analysis of the set of molecular determinants that have obvious cross-functional pathways in the pathogenesis of oncological and neurodegenerative diseases can help in the creation of advanced diagnostic tools and in the development of innovative pharmacological strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Aleksandrova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds at Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142432 Chernogolovka, Russia;
| | - Margarita Neganova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds at Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142432 Chernogolovka, Russia;
- Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry, FRC Kazan Scientific Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, 420088 Kazan, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hallis SP, Kim JM, Kwak MK. Emerging Role of NRF2 Signaling in Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype. Mol Cells 2023; 46:153-164. [PMID: 36994474 PMCID: PMC10070166 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.2196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of tumor cells characterized by self-renewal and differentiation capacity. CSCs are currently postulated as the driving force that induces intra-tumor heterogeneity leading to tumor initiation, metastasis, and eventually tumor relapse. Notably, CSCs are inherently resistant to environmental stress, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy due to high levels of antioxidant systems and drug efflux transporters. In this context, a therapeutic strategy targeting the CSC-specific pathway holds a promising cure for cancer. NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2; NFE2L2) is a master transcription factor that regulates an array of genes involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species/electrophiles. Accumulating evidence suggests that persistent NRF2 activation, observed in multiple types of cancer, supports tumor growth, aggressive malignancy, and therapy resistance. Herein, we describe the core properties of CSCs, focusing on treatment resistance, and review the evidence that demonstrates the roles of NRF2 signaling in conferring unique properties of CSCs and the associated signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steffanus P. Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Jin Myung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kim SJ, Surh YJ. The Multifaceted Roles for NRF2 in Regulating Tumor Development and Progression: An Update. Mol Cells 2023; 46:131-132. [PMID: 36994472 PMCID: PMC10070165 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Su-Jung Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Association of NRF2 with HIF-2α-induced cancer stem cell phenotypes in chronic hypoxic condition. Redox Biol 2023; 60:102632. [PMID: 36791645 PMCID: PMC9950657 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of the cancer stem cell (CSC) properties is often mediated by the surrounding microenvironment, and tumor hypoxia is considered an important factor for CSC phenotype development. High levels of NRF2 (Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Like 2; NFE2L2), a transcription factor that maintains cellular redox balance, have been associated with facilitated tumor growth and therapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the role of NRF2 in hypoxia-induced CSC phenotypes in colorectal cancer cells. Chronic hypoxia for 72 h resulted in CSC phenotypes, including elevation of krupple-like factor 4 (KLF4) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and an increase in cancer migration and spheroid growth with concomitant hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) accumulation. All these chronic hypoxia-induced CSC properties were attenuated following HIF-2α-specific silencing. In this chronic hypoxia model, NRF2 inhibition by shRNA-based silencing or brusatol treatment blocked HIF-2α accumulation, which consequently resulted in decreased CSC marker expression and inhibition of CSC properties such as spheroid growth. In contrast, NRF2 overactivation by genetic or chemical approach enhanced the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α accumulation and cancer migration. As a molecular mechanism of the NRF2-inhibition-mediated HIF-2α dysregulation, we demonstrated that miR-181a-2-3p, whose expression is elevated in NRF2-silenced cells, targeted the HIF-2α 3'UTR and subsequently suppressed the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α and CSC phenotypes. The miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor treatment in NRF2-silenced cells could restore the levels of HIF-2α and CSC markers, and increased cancer migration and sphere formation under chronic hypoxia. In line with this, the miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor transfection could increase tumorigenicity of NRF2-silenced colorectal cancer cells. Collectively, our study suggests the involvement of NRF2/miR181a-2-3p signaling in the development of HIF-2α-mediated CSC phenotypes in sustained hypoxic environments.
Collapse
|
12
|
Shockley KR, Dunnick JK. Gene expression profiling after exposure to a chemical carcinogen, Pentabrominated Diphenyl Ether, at different life stages. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 4:1028309. [PMID: 36687508 PMCID: PMC9847571 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.1028309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to environmental hazards occurs at different stages of our lifetime-infant, child, adult. This study integrates recently published toxicogenomics data to examine how exposure to a known rat chemical carcinogen (pentabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)) upregulated liver transcriptomic changes at different life cycle stages (PND 4, PND 22, adult). We found that at all three life cycle stages PBDE exposure induced hepatocellular transcriptomic changes in disease pathways including cancer, metabolic, membrane function, and Nrf2 antioxidant pathways, pathways all characteristics of chemical carcinogens. In addition, in the adult rat after a 5-day exposure to the chemical carcinogen, there was upregulation of members of the Ras oncogenic pathway, a specific pathway found to be activated in the PBDE-induced tumors in rats in a previous hazard identification cancer study. The findings of liver transcript changes characteristic of carcinogenic activity after early life exposures and after short-term adult exposures provides data to support the use of transcriptomic data to predict the apical cancer endpoints in model studies. Using data from gene expression profiling studies after neonatal, young, or adult short-term chemical exposure helps to meet the 21st century toxicology goal of developing study designs to reduce, refine, and replace the use of traditional 2-year rodent cancer studies to provide hazard identification information. The studies reported here find that key transcripts associated with carcinogenesis were elevated in neonate (PND 4), young (PND 22) and adult animals after short-term exposure to PBDE, a known experimental chemical carcinogen in model systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith R. Shockley
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Keith R. Shockley,
| | - June K. Dunnick
- Systems Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
CRISPR/Cas9-engineered mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and their extracellular vesicles: A new approach to overcoming cell therapy limitations. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113943. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
14
|
Redox-Regulation in Cancer Stem Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102413. [PMID: 36289675 PMCID: PMC9598867 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102413] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a small subset of slowly dividing cells with tumor-initiating ability. They can self-renew and differentiate into all the distinct cell populations within a tumor. CSCs are naturally resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. CSCs, thus, can repopulate a tumor after therapy and are responsible for recurrence of disease. Stemness manifests itself through, among other things, the expression of stem cell markers, the ability to induce sphere formation and tumor growth in vivo, and resistance to chemotherapeutics and irradiation. Stemness is maintained by keeping levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) low, which is achieved by enhanced activity of antioxidant pathways. Here, cellular sources of ROS, antioxidant pathways employed by CSCs, and underlying mechanisms to overcome resistance are discussed.
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhao C, Tang J, Li X, Yan Z, Zhao L, Lang W, Yuan C, Zhou C. Beneficial effects of procyanidin B2 on adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome mice: the multi-action mechanism for ameliorating glomerular permselectivity injury. Food Funct 2022; 13:8436-8464. [PMID: 35861207 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo03616e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite considerable advances in prevention, diagnosis, and therapy, nephrotic syndrome (NS) remains a significant cause of high morbidity and mortality globally. As a result, there is an urgent need to identify novel effective preventative and therapeutic agents for NS. NS is implicated in glomerular permselectivity injury, which can be attributed to oxidative distress, inflammation, lipid nephrotoxicity, podocyte apoptosis, autophagy dysfunction, and slit diaphragm (SLD) dysfunction. In addition to its well-documented antioxidant potency, procyanidin B2 (PB2) may exhibit pleiotropic effects by targeting various canonical signaling events, such as NF-κB, PPARs, PI3K/Akt, mTOR, and the caspase family. As a result, PB2 may be a promising therapeutic target against NS. To test this hypothesis, we established an Adriamycin (ADR)-induced NS mouse model to evaluate the pleiotropic renoprotective effects of PB2 on NS. Here, we demonstrated that PB2 improves podocyte injury via inhibition of NOX4/ROS and Hsp90/NF-κB to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency, respectively. We also show that PB2 indirectly activates the PI3K/Akt axis by regulating SLD protein levels, resulting in normalized podocyte apoptosis and autophagy function. Further, loss of albumin (ALB) induces lipid nephrotoxicity, which we found to be alleviated by PB2 via activation of PPARα/β-mediated lipid homeostasis and the cholesterol efflux axis. Interestingly, our results also suggested that PB2 reduces electrolyte abnormalities and edema. In addition, PB2 may contribute protective effects against trace element dys-homeostasis, which, through alleviating serum ALB loss, leads to a protective effect on glomerular permselectivity injury. Taken together, our results reveal that the identified mechanisms of PB2 on NS are multifactorial and involve inhibition of oxidative distress and inflammatory responses, as well as improvements in podocyte apoptosis and autophagy dysfunction, amelioration of lipid nephrotoxicity, and modulation of electrolyte abnormalities and edema. Thus, we provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of PB2 against NS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuanping Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, 180 WuSi Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071002, China.
| | - Jiamei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, 180 WuSi Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071002, China.
| | - Xiaoya Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, 180 WuSi Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071002, China.
| | - Zihan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, 180 WuSi Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071002, China.
| | - Liangliang Zhao
- Department of Monitoring and Analysis, Baoding Environmental Monitoring Center of Hebei Province, 224 Dongfeng Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071000, China
| | - Wenbo Lang
- Department of Monitoring and Analysis, Baoding Environmental Monitoring Center of Hebei Province, 224 Dongfeng Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071000, China
| | - Chunmao Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550014, China
| | - Chengyan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Quality Control of Hebei Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, 180 WuSi Road, Lianchi District, Baoding, 071002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Choi BH, Ryoo I, Sim KH, Ahn HJ, Lee YJ, Kwak MK. High Levels of Hyaluronic Acid Synthase-2 Mediate NRF2-Driven Chemoresistance in Breast Cancer Cells. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2022; 30:368-379. [PMID: 35768333 PMCID: PMC9252875 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2022.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA), a ligand of CD44, accumulates in some types of tumors and is responsible for tumor progression. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NRF2) regulates cytoprotective genes and drug transporters, which promotes therapy resistance in tumors. Previously, we showed that high levels of CD44 are associated with NRF2 activation in cancer stem like-cells. Herein, we demonstrate that HA production was increased in doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer MCF7 cells (MCF7-DR) via the upregulation of HA synthase-2 (HAS2). HA incubation increased NRF2, aldo-keto reductase 1C1 (AKR1C1), and multidrug resistance gene 1 (MDR1) levels. Silencing of HAS2 or CD44 suppressed NRF2 signaling in MCF7-DR, which was accompanied by increased doxorubicin sensitivity. The treatment with a HAS2 inhibitor, 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU), decreased NRF2, AKR1C1, and MDR1 levels in MCF7-DR. Subsequently, 4-MU treatment inhibited sphere formation and doxorubicin resistance in MCF7-DR. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data analysis across 32 types of tumors indicates the amplification of HAS2 gene is a common genetic alteration and is negatively correlated with the overall survival rate. In addition, high HAS2 mRNA levels are associated with increased NRF2 signaling and poor clinical outcome in breast cancer patients. Collectively, these indicate that HAS2 elevation contributes to chemoresistance and sphere formation capacity of drug-resistant MCF7 cells by activating CD44/NRF2 signaling, suggesting a potential benefit of HAS2 inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Ingeun Ryoo
- Department of Pharmacology and Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Hwa Sim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon-Jin Ahn
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn Ju Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacology and Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Republic of Korea.,College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hong DG, Song GY, Eom CB, Ahn JH, Kim SM, Shim A, Han YH, Roh YS, Han CY, Bae EJ, Ko HJ, Yang YM. Loss of ERdj5 exacerbates oxidative stress in mice with alcoholic liver disease via suppressing Nrf2. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 184:42-52. [PMID: 35390453 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease is the major cause of chronic liver diseases. Excessive alcohol intake results in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. ERdj5, a member of DNAJ family, is an ER-resident chaperone protein, whose role in alcoholic liver disease remains to be investigated. In this study, we aim to address the effect of ERdj5 on alcoholic liver disease and the underlying mechanism. Hepatic Dnajc10 (ERdj5) mRNA expression was elevated in both human and mouse alcoholic hepatitis. In mice subjected to chronic and binge ethanol feeding, ERdj5 levels were also markedly increased. Hepatic Dnajc10 correlated with Xbp1s mRNA. Tunicamycin, an ER stress inducer, increased ERdj5 levels. Dnajc10 knockout mice exhibited exacerbated alcohol-induced liver injury and hepatic steatosis. However, the macrophage numbers and chemokine levels were similar to those in wild-type mice. Depletion of Dnajc10 promoted oxidative stress. Ethanol feeding increased hepatic H2O2 levels, and these were further increased in Dnajc10 knockout mice. Additionally, Dnajc10-deficient hepatocytes produced large amounts of reactive oxygen species. Notably, Nrf2, a central regulator of oxidative stress, was decreased by depletion of Dnajc10 in the nuclear fraction of ethanol-treated mouse liver. Consistently, liver tissues from ethanol-fed Dnajc10 knockout mice had reduced expression of downstream antioxidant genes. Furthermore, hepatic glutathione content in the liver of knockout mice declined compared to wild-type mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that ethanol-induced ERdj5 may regulate the Nrf2 pathway and glutathione contents, and have protective effects on liver damage and alcohol-mediated oxidative stress in mice. These suggest that ERdj5 has the potential to protect against alcoholic liver disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Gyun Hong
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga Yeon Song
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol Bin Eom
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hee Ahn
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Myoung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Aeri Shim
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Hyun Han
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Seok Roh
- College of Pharmacy and Medical Research Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Yeob Han
- School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ju Bae
- School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jeong Ko
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Mee Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; KNU Researcher Training Program for Developing Anti-Viral Innovative Drugs, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Paskeh MDA, Saebfar H, Mahabady MK, Orouei S, Hushmandi K, Entezari M, Hashemi M, Aref AR, Hamblin MR, Ang HL, Kumar AP, Zarrabi A, Samarghandian S. Overcoming doxorubicin resistance in cancer: siRNA-loaded nanoarchitectures for cancer gene therapy. Life Sci 2022; 298:120463. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
19
|
Park J, Kim SK, Hallis SP, Choi BH, Kwak MK. Role of CD133/NRF2 Axis in the Development of Colon Cancer Stem Cell-Like Properties. Front Oncol 2022; 11:808300. [PMID: 35155201 PMCID: PMC8825377 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.808300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit intrinsic therapy/stress resistance, which often cause cancer recurrence after therapy. In this study, we investigated the potential relationship between the cluster of differentiation (CD)-133, a CSC marker of colon cancer, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2; NRF2), a master transcription factor for the regulation of multiple antioxidant genes. In the first model of CSC, a sphere culture of the colorectal cell line HCT116, showed increased levels of CD133 and NRF2. Silencing of CD133 reduced the levels of CSC markers, such as Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), and further suppressed the expression levels of NRF2 and its target genes. As a potential molecular link, CD133-mediated activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase (PI3K/AKT) signaling appears to increase the NRF2 protein levels via phosphorylation and the consequent inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β. Additionally, NRF2-silenced HCT116 cells showed attenuated sphere formation capacity and reduced CSC markers expression, indicating the critical role of the NRF2 pathway in the development of CSC-like properties. As a second model of CSC, the CD133high cell population was isolated from HCT116 cells. CSC-like properties, including sphere formation, motility, migration, colony formation, and anticancer resistance, were enhanced in the CD133high population compared to CD133low HCT116 cells. Levels of NRF2, which were elevated in CD133high HCT116, were suppressed by CD133-silencing. In line with these, the analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed that high levels of CD133 expression are correlated with increased NRF2 signaling, and alterations in CD133 gene or expression are associated with unfavorable clinical outcome in colorectal carcinoma patients. These results indicate that the CD133/NRF2 axis contributes to the development of CSC-like properties in colon cancer cells, and that PI3K/AKT signaling activation is involved in CD133-mediated NRF2 activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jimin Park
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Seung Ki Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Steffanus Pranoto Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Bo-Hyun Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy and BK21FOUR Advanced Program for SmartPharma Leaders, Graduate School of The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.,Integrated Research Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.,College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Glitscher M, Hildt E, Bender D. [Hepatitis B and C: mechanisms of virus-induced liver pathogenesis and tumorigenesis]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2022; 65:228-237. [PMID: 35015106 PMCID: PMC8813796 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-021-03482-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses (HBV, HCV) are the most relevant causative viral agents of a chronic hepatitis (inflammation of the liver). At present, more than 250 million people suffer from a chronic HBV infection globally, resulting in 0.8 million deaths per year. A chronic HCV infection accounts for about 70 million cases worldwide, leading to a death toll of about 1 million per year. An approved vaccine is only available against an HBV infection. Both HBV and HCV infections result in a highly increased risk of developing liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).This review aims to describe mechanisms of the HBV- and HCV-associated pathogenesis. The focus is on the interplay between a chronic infection with intracellular signaling transduction, metabolic pathways with an emphasis on lipid metabolism, the establishment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis during a chronic infection, and the mechanisms of the onset of a virally induced HCC.Despite there being great advances in the characterization of viral life cycles and the development of robust antiviral strategies, significant hurdles persist: gaining a better understanding of the mechanisms that drive virus-associated pathogenesis as well as increasing insights regarding different viral genotypes having impacts on alternate pathogeneses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirco Glitscher
- Abteilung 2/01, Virologie, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut - Bundesinstitut für Impfstoffe und biomedizinische Arzneimittel, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 51-59, 63226, Langen, Deutschland
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Abteilung 2/01, Virologie, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut - Bundesinstitut für Impfstoffe und biomedizinische Arzneimittel, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 51-59, 63226, Langen, Deutschland.
| | - Daniela Bender
- Abteilung 2/01, Virologie, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut - Bundesinstitut für Impfstoffe und biomedizinische Arzneimittel, Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 51-59, 63226, Langen, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
van Noorden CJ, Breznik B, Novak M, van Dijck AJ, Tanan S, Vittori M, Bogataj U, Bakker N, Khoury JD, Molenaar RJ, Hira VV. Cell Biology Meets Cell Metabolism: Energy Production Is Similar in Stem Cells and in Cancer Stem Cells in Brain and Bone Marrow. J Histochem Cytochem 2022; 70:29-51. [PMID: 34714696 PMCID: PMC8721571 DOI: 10.1369/00221554211054585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Energy production by means of ATP synthesis in cancer cells has been investigated frequently as a potential therapeutic target in this century. Both (an)aerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) have been studied. Here, we review recent literature on energy production in glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and leukemic stem cells (LSCs) versus their normal counterparts, neural stem cells (NSCs) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), respectively. These two cancer stem cell types were compared because their niches in glioblastoma tumors and in bone marrow are similar. In this study, it became apparent that (1) ATP is produced in NSCs and HSCs by anaerobic glycolysis, whereas fatty acid oxidation (FAO) is essential for their stem cell fate and (2) ATP is produced in GSCs and LSCs by OXPHOS despite the hypoxic conditions in their niches with FAO and amino acids providing its substrate. These metabolic processes appeared to be under tight control of cellular regulation mechanisms which are discussed in depth. However, our conclusion is that systemic therapeutic targeting of ATP production via glycolysis or OXPHOS is not an attractive option because of its unwanted side effects in cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Breznik
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Metka Novak
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | | | - Miloš Vittori
- Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urban Bogataj
- Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Joseph D. Khoury
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Remco J. Molenaar
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia,Department of Medical Oncology
| | - Vashendriya V.V. Hira
- Vashendriya V.V. Hira, Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lee SO, Kwak AW, Lee MH, Seo JH, Cho SS, Yoon G, Chae JI, Joo SH, Shim JH. Picropodophyllotoxin Induces G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells via ROS Generation and Activation of p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 31:1615-1623. [PMID: 34528917 PMCID: PMC9705953 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2109.09012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Picropodophyllotoxin (PPT), an epimer of podophyllotoxin, is derived from the roots of Podophyllum hexandrum and exerts various biological effects, including anti-proliferation activity. However, the effect of PPT on colorectal cancer cells and the associated cellular mechanisms have not been studied. In the present study, we explored the anticancer activity of PPT and its underlying mechanisms in HCT116 cells. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to monitor cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell cycle distribution, the induction of apoptosis, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), assess the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), and multi-caspase activity. Western blot assays were performed to detect the expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins, apoptosis-related proteins, and p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase). We found that PPT induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, and ROS in the HCT116 cell line. In addition, PPT enhanced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, which regulates apoptosis and PPT-induced apoptosis. The phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was inhibited by an antioxidant agent (N-acetyl-L-cysteine, NAC) and a p38 inhibitor (SB203580). PPT induced depolarization of the mitochondrial inner membrane and caspase-dependent apoptosis, which was attenuated by exposure to Z-VAD-FMK. Overall, these data indicate that PPT induced G1 arrest and apoptosis via ROS generation and activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-On Lee
- Department of Biomedicine, Health and Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Ah-Won Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Hyun Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongshin University, Naju, Jeonnam 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Seo
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Sik Cho
- Department of Biomedicine, Health and Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Goo Yoon
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Il Chae
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Joo
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38430, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author S.H. Joo Phone: +82-53-850-3614 Fax: +82-53-359-6729 E-mail:
| | - Jung-Hyun Shim
- Department of Biomedicine, Health and Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea,The China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450008, P.R. China,
J.H. Shim Phone: +82-61-450-2684 Fax: +82-61-450-2689 E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lee SO, Joo SH, Kwak AW, Lee MH, Seo JH, Cho SS, Yoon G, Chae JI, Shim JH. Podophyllotoxin Induces ROS-Mediated Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells via p38 MAPK Signaling. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2021; 29:658-666. [PMID: 34642263 PMCID: PMC8551740 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2021.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Podophyllotoxin (PT), a lignan compound from the roots and rhizomes of Podophyllum peltatum, has diverse pharmacological activities including anticancer effect in several types of cancer. The molecular mechanism of the anticancer effects of PT on colorectal cancer cells has not been reported yet. In this study, we sought to evaluate the anticancer effect of PT on human colorectal cancer HCT116 cells and identify the detailed molecular mechanism. PT inhibited the growth of cells and colony formation in a concentration-dependent manner and induced apoptosis as determined by the annexin V/7-aminoactinomycin D double staining assay. PT-induced apoptosis was accompanied by cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and an increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The effects of PT on the induction of ROS and apoptosis were prevented by pretreatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), indicating that an increase in ROS generation mediates the apoptosis of HCT116 cells induced by PT. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that PT upregulated the level of phospho (p)-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The treatment of SB203580, a p38 inhibitor, strongly prevented the apoptosis induced by PT, suggesting that PT-induced apoptosis involved the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, PT induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and multi-caspase activation. The results suggested that PT induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and apoptosis through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway by upregulating ROS in HCT116 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-On Lee
- Department of Biomedicine, Health & Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Joo
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan 38430, Republic of Korea
| | - Ah-Won Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Hyun Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongshin University, Naju 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Seo
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Sik Cho
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Goo Yoon
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Il Chae
- Department of Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hyun Shim
- Department of Biomedicine, Health & Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Mokpo National University, Muan 58554, Republic of Korea.,The China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gao L, Morine Y, Yamada S, Saito Y, Ikemoto T, Tokuda K, Takasu C, Miyazaki K, Shimada M. Nrf2 signaling promotes cancer stemness, migration, and expression of ABC transporter genes in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma cells. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256755. [PMID: 34473785 PMCID: PMC8412368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim As a multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sorafenib is widely used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but patients frequently face resistance problems. Because the mechanism controlling sorafenib-resistance is not well understood, this study focused on the connection between tumor characteristics and the Nrf2 signaling pathway in a sorafenib-resistant HCC cell line. Methods A sorafenib-resistant HCC cell line (Huh7) was developed by increasing the dose of sorafenib in the culture medium until the target concentration was reached. Cell morphology, migration/invasion rates, and expression of stemness-related and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes were compared between sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells and parental Huh7 cells. Next, a small interfering RNA was used to knock down Nrf2 expression in sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells, after which cell viability, stemness, migration, and ABC transporter gene expression were examined again. Results Proliferation, migration, and invasion rates of sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells were significantly increased relative to the parental cells with or without sorafenib added to the medium. The expression levels of stemness markers and ABC transporter genes were up-regulated in sorafenib-resistant cells. After Nrf2 was knocked down in sorafenib-resistant cells, cell migration and invasion rates were reduced, and expression levels of stemness markers and ABC transporter genes were reduced. Conclusion Nrf2 signaling promotes cancer stemness, migration, and expression of ABC transporter genes in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luping Gao
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuji Morine
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Shinichiro Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yu Saito
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ikemoto
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kazunori Tokuda
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Chie Takasu
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Katsuki Miyazaki
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Mitsuo Shimada
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Emanuele S, Celesia A, D’Anneo A, Lauricella M, Carlisi D, De Blasio A, Giuliano M. The Good and Bad of Nrf2: An Update in Cancer and New Perspectives in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7963. [PMID: 34360732 PMCID: PMC8348506 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a well-known transcription factor best recognised as one of the main regulators of the oxidative stress response. Beyond playing a crucial role in cell defence by transactivating cytoprotective genes encoding antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, Nrf2 is also implicated in a wide network regulating anti-inflammatory response and metabolic reprogramming. Such a broad spectrum of actions renders the factor a key regulator of cell fate and a strategic player in the control of cell transformation and response to viral infections. The Nrf2 protective roles in normal cells account for its anti-tumour and anti-viral functions. However, Nrf2 overstimulation often occurs in tumour cells and a complex correlation of Nrf2 with cancer initiation and progression has been widely described. Therefore, if on one hand, Nrf2 has a dual role in cancer, on the other hand, the factor seems to display a univocal function in preventing inflammation and cytokine storm that occur under viral infections, specifically in coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). In such a variegate context, the present review aims to dissect the roles of Nrf2 in both cancer and COVID-19, two widespread diseases that represent a cause of major concern today. In particular, the review describes the molecular aspects of Nrf2 signalling in both pathological situations and the most recent findings about the advantages of Nrf2 inhibition or activation as possible strategies for cancer and COVID-19 treatment respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Emanuele
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Adriana Celesia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Antonella D’Anneo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Marianna Lauricella
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Carlisi
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.L.); (D.C.)
| | - Anna De Blasio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Michela Giuliano
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Biochemistry Building, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.); (A.D.B.); (M.G.)
| |
Collapse
|