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Feng G, Wu Y, Hu Y, Shuai W, Yang X, Li Y, Ouyang L, Wang G. Small molecule inhibitors targeting m 6A regulators. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:30. [PMID: 38711100 PMCID: PMC11075261 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01546-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
As the most common form of epigenetic regulation by RNA, N6 methyladenosine (m6A) modification is closely involved in physiological processes, such as growth and development, stem cell renewal and differentiation, and DNA damage response. Meanwhile, its aberrant expression in cancer tissues promotes the development of malignant tumors, as well as plays important roles in proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance, immunity and prognosis. This close association between m6A and cancers has garnered substantial attention in recent years. An increasing number of small molecules have emerged as potential agents to target m6A regulators for cancer treatment. These molecules target the epigenetic level, enabling precise intervention in RNA modifications and efficiently disrupting the survival mechanisms of tumor cells, thus paving the way for novel approaches in cancer treatment. However, there is currently a lack of a comprehensive review on small molecules targeting m6A regulators for anti-tumor. Here, we have comprehensively summarized the classification and functions of m6A regulators, elucidating their interactions with the proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune responses in common cancers. Furthermore, we have provided a comprehensive overview on the development, mode of action, pharmacology and structure-activity relationships of small molecules targeting m6A regulators. Our aim is to offer insights for subsequent drug design and optimization, while also providing an outlook on future prospects for small molecule development targeting m6A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guotai Feng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongya Wu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, and West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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2
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Zheng H, Wu T, Lin Z, Wang D, Zhang J, Zeng T, Liu L, Shen J, Zhao M, Li JD, Yang M. Targeting BMAL1 reverses drug resistance of acute myeloid leukemia cells and promotes ferroptosis through HMGB1-GPX4 signaling pathway. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:231. [PMID: 38703241 PMCID: PMC11069489 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05753-y] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a refractory hematologic malignancy that poses a serious threat to human health. Exploring alternative therapeutic strategies capable of inducing alternative modes of cell death, such as ferroptosis, holds great promise as a viable and effective intervention. METHODS We analyzed online database data and collected clinical samples to verify the expression and function of BMAL1 in AML. We conducted experiments on AML cell proliferation, cell cycle, ferroptosis, and chemotherapy resistance by overexpressing/knocking down BMAL1 and using assays such as MDA detection and BODIPY 581/591 C11 staining. We validated the transcriptional regulation of HMGB1 by BMAL1 through ChIP assay, luciferase assay, RNA level detection, and western blotting. Finally, we confirmed the results of our cell experiments at the animal level. RESULTS BMAL1 up-regulation is an observed phenomenon in AML patients. Furthermore, there existed a strong correlation between elevated levels of BMAL1 expression and inferior prognosis in individuals with AML. We found that knocking down BMAL1 inhibited AML cell growth by blocking the cell cycle. Conversely, overexpressing BMAL1 promoted AML cell proliferation. Moreover, our research results revealed that BMAL1 inhibited ferroptosis in AML cells through BMAL1-HMGB1-GPX4 pathway. Finally, knocking down BMAL1 can enhance the efficacy of certain first-line cancer therapeutic drugs, including venetoclax, dasatinib, and sorafenib. CONCLUSION Our research results suggest that BMAL1 plays a crucial regulatory role in AML cell proliferation, drug resistance, and ferroptosis. BMAL1 could be a potential important therapeutic target for AML.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- ARNTL Transcription Factors/genetics
- ARNTL Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Ferroptosis/drug effects
- HMGB1 Protein/metabolism
- HMGB1 Protein/genetics
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/metabolism
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/pathology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Mice, Nude
- Phospholipid Hydroperoxide Glutathione Peroxidase/metabolism
- Phospholipid Hydroperoxide Glutathione Peroxidase/genetics
- Prognosis
- Signal Transduction
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ting Wu
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Ting Zeng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Leping Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Mingyi Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jia-Da Li
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
| | - Minghua Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Pediatric Cancer, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
- MOE Key Lab of Rare Pediatric Diseases, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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3
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Xie Y, Tan L, Wu K, Li D, Li C. MiR-455-3p mediates PPARα through UBN2 to promote apoptosis and autophagy in acute myeloid leukemia cells. Exp Hematol 2023; 128:77-88. [PMID: 37805161 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the deadliest hematologic malignancies, and its targeted therapy has developed slowly. The molecular mechanism of the pathophysiology of the disease remains to be clarified. The aim of our study was to probe the specific regulatory mechanism of miR-455-3p in AML. This study measured the levels of miR-455-3p and ubinuclein-2 (UBN2) in AML cell lines, evaluated cell viability with CCK-8, used flow cytometry to estimate the cell cycle and apoptosis, detected cell apoptosis and autophagy-related protein levels by Western blotting, and added 50 μM chloroquine (CQ) to evaluate the relationship between autophagy and AML. In animal experiments, HL-60 cells were injected into male non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency disease (NOD/SCID) mice through the tail vein to determine survival time and observe the degree of liver and spleen damage in the mice. miR-455-3p was prominently reduced in the peripheral blood and AML cell lines, and UBN2 showed high expression. The transfected miR-455-3p mimic effectively restrained the activity of AML cells, whereas overexpression of UBN2 or the addition of the autophagy inhibitor CQ reversed the effect of miR-455-3p. The interaction between UBN2 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation, and overexpression of PPARα reversed the promoting effect of UBN2 knockdown on apoptosis and autophagy in AML cells. In conclusion, miR-455-3p mediates PPARα protein expression through UBN2, exacerbating AML cell apoptosis and autophagy. This study found that miR-455-3p plays an important role in AML cell apoptosis and autophagy, which may provide novel insights for the treatment of AML diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xie
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Lin Tan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Deyun Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Chengping Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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4
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Hu R, Liao P, Xu B, Qiu Y, Zhang H, Li Y. N6-methyladenosine RNA modifications: a potential therapeutic target for AML. Ann Hematol 2023:10.1007/s00277-023-05302-6. [PMID: 37548690 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05302-6] [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] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification has recently emerged as an essential regulator of normal and malignant hematopoiesis. As a reversible epigenetic modification found in messenger RNAs and non-coding RNAs, m6A affects the fate of the modified RNA molecules. It is essential in most vital bioprocesses, contributing to cancer development. Here, we review the up-to-date knowledge of the pathological functions and underlying molecular mechanism of m6A modifications in normal hematopoiesis, leukemia pathogenesis, and drug response/resistance. At last, we discuss the critical role of m6A in immune response, the therapeutic potential of targeting m6A regulators, and the possible combination therapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Hu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Peiyun Liao
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Binyan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingqi Qiu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Honghao Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Rashno Z, Rismani E, Ghasemi JB, Mansouri M, Shabani M, Afgar A, Dabiri S, Rezaei Makhouri F, Hatami A, Harandi MF. Design of ion channel blocking, toxin-like Kunitz inhibitor peptides from the tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus, with potential anti-cancer activity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11465. [PMID: 37454225 PMCID: PMC10349847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38159-w] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Over-expression of K+ channels has been reported in human cancers and is associated with the poor prognosis of several malignancies. EAG1, a particular potassium ion channel, is widely expressed in the brain but poorly expressed in other normal tissues. Kunitz proteins are dominant in metazoan including the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus. Using computational analyses on one A-type potassium channel, EAG1, and in vitro cellular methods, including major cancer cell biomarkers expression, immunocytochemistry and whole-cell patch clamp, we demonstrated the anti-tumor activity of three synthetic small peptides derived from E. granulosus Kunitz4 protease inhibitors. Experiments showed induced significant apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation in both cancer cell lines via disruption in cell-cycle transition from the G0/G1 to S phase. Western blotting showed that the levels of cell cycle-related proteins including P27 and P53 were altered upon kunitz4-a and kunitz4-c treatment. Patch clamp analysis demonstrated a significant increase in spontaneous firing frequency in Purkinje neurons, and exposure to kunitz4-c was associated with an increase in the number of rebound action potentials after hyperpolarized current. This noteworthy component in nature could act as an ion channel blocker and is a potential candidate for cancer chemotherapy based on potassium channel blockage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Rashno
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Elham Rismani
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jahan B Ghasemi
- Faculty of Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mansouri
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shabani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Afgar
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Shahriar Dabiri
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Abbas Hatami
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran.
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6
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Shen LT, Che LR, He Z, Lu Q, Chen DF, Qin ZY, Wang B. Aberrant RNA m 6A modification in gastrointestinal malignancies: versatile regulators of cancer hallmarks and novel therapeutic opportunities. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:236. [PMID: 37015927 PMCID: PMC10072051 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05736-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is one of the most common malignancies, and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. However, molecular targeted therapies are still lacking, leading to poor treatment efficacies. As an important layer of epigenetic regulation, RNA N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) modification is recently linked to various biological hallmarks of cancer by orchestrating RNA metabolism, including RNA splicing, export, translation, and decay, which is partially involved in a novel biological process termed phase separation. Through these regulatory mechanisms, m6A dictates gene expression in a dynamic and reversible manner and may play oncogenic, tumor suppressive or context-dependent roles in GI tumorigenesis. Therefore, regulators and effectors of m6A, as well as their modified substrates, represent a novel class of molecular targets for cancer treatments. In this review, we comprehensively summarize recent advances in this field and highlight research findings that documented key roles of RNA m6A modification in governing hallmarks of GI cancers. From a historical perspective, milestone findings in m6A machinery are integrated with a timeline of developing m6A targeting compounds. These available chemical compounds, as well as other approaches that target core components of the RNA m6A pathway hold promises for clinical translational to treat human GI cancers. Further investigation on several outstanding issues, e.g. how oncogenic insults may disrupt m6A homeostasis, and how m6A modification impacts on the tumor microenvironment, may dissect novel mechanisms underlying human tumorigenesis and identifies next-generation anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss advances in our understanding of m6A RNA modification since its discovery in the 1970s to the latest progress in defining its potential clinic relevance. We summarize the molecular basis and roles of m6A regulators in the hallmarks of GI cancer and discuss their context-dependent functions. Furthermore, the identification and characterization of inhibitors or activators of m6A regulators and their potential anti-cancer effects are discussed. With the rapid growth in this field there is significant potential for developing m6A targeted therapy in GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ting Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Zhejiang Armed Police (PAP), Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Lin-Rong Che
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Zongsheng He
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Qian Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Dong-Feng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Zhong-Yi Qin
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology of Ministry of Education of China, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology & Chongqing Key Laboratory of Digestive Malignancies, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China.
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology of Ministry of Education of China, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
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7
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Jin Z, MacPherson K, Liu Z, Vu LP. RNA modifications in hematological malignancies. Int J Hematol 2023; 117:807-820. [PMID: 36929506 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-023-03576-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
RNA modifications play an important role in various cancers including blood cancers by controlling gene expression programs critical for survival, proliferation and differentiation of cancer cells. While hundreds of RNA modifications have been identified, many have not been functionally characterized. With development of enabling technologies to identify and map RNA modifications, tremendous advancement has been made in our understanding of the biological functions of these molecular markers in diverse cellular contexts. In the last 5 years, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent internal mRNA modification, has been extensively implicated in many facets of leukemogenesis. Other types of RNA modifications are also involved in the regulation of cell fate decisions and tumorigenesis. Here, we summarize existing knowledge and recent discoveries regarding the role of RNA modifications in leukemia. We choose to highlight cutting-edge techniques to characterize and profile RNA modifications while discussing critical functions of key modifiers and regulatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies and touch on therapeutic strategies targeting RNA modifications. These important advancements in the field will continue to foster a strong foundation for the development of innovative treatments for hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Jin
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kyle MacPherson
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Zongmin Liu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ly P Vu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. .,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
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8
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Li R, Zhu H, Li Q, Tang J, Jin Y, Cui H. METTL3-mediated m6A modification of has_circ_0007905 promotes age-related cataract progression through miR-6749-3p/EIF4EBP1. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14863. [PMID: 36908822 PMCID: PMC9997201 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many cases of blindness are caused by age-related cataracts (ARCs). N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-modified circRNA widely participates in disease progression. However, the role of m6A modification of circRNA in ARC is unclear. We mined and elucidated the functions and mechanisms of key circRNAs with m6A modification involved in ARC progression. The GSE153722 dataset was used to mine m6A-mediated key circRNA. Loss-of-function assays and rescue assays were used to explore the effect and mechanism of circRNA on ARC cell proliferation and apoptosis. Has_circ_0007905 was a hypermethylated and upregulated expression in the ARC group relative to the control group both in vivo and in vitro. Silencing of has_circ_0007905 promoted proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of HLE-B3 cells. METTL3 was upregulated in HLE-B3 cells after ARC modeling and had four binding sites with has_circ_0007905 and a mediated m6A modification of has_circ_0007905. Proliferation was significantly inhibited and apoptosis of HLE-B3 cells was facilitated by METTL3 overexpression, whereas these effects were prevented by has_circ_0007905 silencing. Silencing of has_circ_0007905 led to an alteration in the transcriptome landscape. Differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in immune-related processes and pathways. EIF4EBP1 overexpression promoted apoptosis and suppressed proliferation, and also significantly reversed effects of has_circ_0007905 silencing. Moreover, miR-6749-3p significantly decreased the luciferase activities of wild type plasmids with both of has_circ_0007905 and EIF4EBP1. MiR-6749-3p inhibitor blocked elevation in proliferation and reduced EIF4EBP1 expression and apoptosis conferred by has_circ_0007905 silencing. We reveal for the first time that the commitment of ARC progression is guided by METTL3/has_circ_0007905/miR-6749-3p/EIF4EBP1 axis, and the results provide new insights into ARC pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haohao Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiancen Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiping Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongping Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Li X, Liu B, Wang S, Li J, Ge X. MiR-141-3p promotes malignant progression in prostate cancer through AlkB homolog 5-mediated m 6A modification of protein arginine methyltransferase 6. CHINESE J PHYSIOL 2023; 66:43-51. [PMID: 36814156 DOI: 10.4103/cjop.cjop-d-22-00071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in males worldwide and exploring more reliable biomarkers for PCa is essential for the diagnosis and therapeutics for the disease. Although the functions of miR-141-3p and AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) were identified in some cancers, whether they were involved in the development of PCa remains unclear. In this study, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction unveiled that the expression of ALKBH5 was reduced in PCa tissues and was negatively correlated with miR-141-3p. ALKBH5 attenuated the malignant development of PCa through suppressing the growth, migration, invasion, and sphere formation abilities of PCa cells. In addition, the luciferase activity assay identified that ALKBH5 was corroborated as a downstream target of miR-141-3p. Moreover, miR-141-3p expression was boosted in PCa tissues and cells and inhibition of miR-141-3p suppressed the tumor growth of PCa in vivo. Moreover, ALKBH5 was confirmed to suppress protein arginine methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6) expression through N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. We further identified that miR-141-3p-modulated PRMT6 level through mediating ALKBH5. Furthermore, PRMT6 level was positively correlated with miR-141-3p level and negatively associated with ALKBH5 level. Finally, rescue assays also uncovered that miR-141-3p aggravated PCa development by regulating PRMT6. In conclusion, miR-141-3p accelerated the malignant progression of PCa through ALKBH5-mediated m6A modification of PRMT6, which might offer a novel insight into the role of miR-141-3p and ALKBH5 in the treatments of PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Li
- Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Bide Liu
- Department of Urology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China
| | - Shuheng Wang
- Department of Urology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China
| | - Jiuzhi Li
- Department of Urology, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China
| | - Xiaohu Ge
- Department of Vascular Surgery, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China
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Liu WW, Wang H, Zhu XY. Physio-pathological effects of N6-methyladenosine and its therapeutic implications in leukemia. Biomark Res 2022; 10:64. [PMID: 35999621 PMCID: PMC9396796 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00410-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent epigenetic modification of RNA in mammals, has become a hot topic throughout recent years. m6A is involved with every links of the RNA fate, including RNA splicing, nuclear export, translation and stability. Due to the reversible and dynamic regulatory network composed of ‘writers’ (methylase), ‘erasers’ (demethylase) and ‘readers’ (m6A binding proteins), m6A has been deemed as an essential modulator in vast physiological and pathological processes. Previous studies have shown that aberrant expression and dysfunction of these regulators are implicated in diverse tumors, exemplified by hematological malignancies. However, we should hold a dialectic perspective towards the influence of m6A modification on leukemogenesis. Given that m6A itself is neither pro-oncogenic nor anti-oncogenic, whether the modifications promote hematological homeostasis or malignancies occurrence and progression is dependent on the specific targets it regulates. Ample evidence supports the role of m6A in maintaining normal hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis, thereby highlighting the therapeutic potential of intervention in m6A modification process for battling leukemia. In this review, we introduce the advances of m6A modification and summarize the biological functions of m6A in RNA metabolism. Then we discuss the significance of several well-studied m6A regulators in modulating normal and malignant hematopoiesis, with focus on the therapeutic potentials of targeting these regulators for battling hematopoietic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Liu
- School of basic medical sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhu
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China. .,Blood and Cell Therapy Institute, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China. .,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, Hefei, China.
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Wen X, Wang J, Wang Q, Liu P, Zhao H. Interaction between N6-methyladenosine and autophagy in the regulation of bone and tissue degeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:978283. [PMID: 36072293 PMCID: PMC9443517 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.978283] [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: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone and tissue degeneration are the most common skeletal disorders that seriously affect people’s quality of life. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common RNA modifications in eukaryotic cells, affecting the alternative splicing, translation, stability and degradation of mRNA. Interestingly, increasing number of evidences have indicated that m6A modification could modulate the expression of autophagy-related (ATG) genes and promote autophagy in the cells. Autophagy is an important process regulating intracellular turnover and is evolutionarily conserved in eukaryotes. Abnormal autophagy results in a variety of diseases, including cardiomyopathy, degenerative disorders, and inflammation. Thus, the interaction between m6A modification and autophagy plays a prominent role in the onset and progression of bone and tissue degeneration. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge related to the effect of m6A modification on autophagy, and introduce the role of the crosstalk between m6A modification and autophagy in bone and tissue degeneration. An in-depth knowledge of the above crosstalk may help to improve our understanding of their effects on bone and tissue degeneration and provide novel insights for the future therapeutics.
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