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Zhang C, Ran F, Du L, Wang X, Liu L, Liu J, Chen Q, Cao Y, Bi L, Hang H. The Humanization and Maturation of an Anti-PrPc Antibody. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:242. [PMID: 38534516 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11030242] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPc) is a cell surface glycoprotein that is highly expressed in a variety of cancer tissues in addition to the nervous system, and its elevated expression is correlated to poor prognosis in many cancer patients. Our team previously found that patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) with high-level PrPc expression had significantly poorer survival than those with no or low-level PrPc expression. Mouse antibodies for PrPc inhibited tumor initiation and liver metastasis of PrPc-positive human CRC cells in mouse model experiments. PrPc is a candidate target for CRC therapy. In this study, we newly cloned a mouse anti-PrPc antibody (Clone 6) and humanized it, then affinity-matured this antibody using a CHO cell display with a peptide antigen and full-length PrPc, respectively. We obtained two humanized antibody clones with affinities toward a full-length PrPc of about 10- and 100-fold of that of the original antibody. The two humanized antibodies bound to the PrPc displayed significantly better on the cell surface than Clone 6. Used for Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, the humanized antibody with the highest affinity is superior to the two most frequently used commercial antibodies (8H4 and 3F4). The two new antibodies have the potential to be developed as useful reagents for PrPc detection and even therapeutic antibodies targeting PrPc-positive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fanlei Ran
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lei Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jinming Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Quan Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Center of Growth, Metabolism and Aging, Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Lijun Bi
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haiying Hang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Qi J, Meng M, Liu J, Song X, Chen Y, Liu Y, Li X, Zhou Z, Huang X, Wang X, Zhou Q, Zhao Z. Lycorine inhibits pancreatic cancer cell growth and neovascularization by inducing Notch1 degradation and downregulating key vasculogenic genes. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 217:115833. [PMID: 37769714 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is highly metastatic and lethal with an increasing incidence globally and a 5-year survival rate of only 8%. One of the factors contributing to the high mortality is the lack of effective drugs in the clinical setting. We speculated that effective compounds against pancreatic cancer exist in natural herbs and explored active small molecules among traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. The small molecule lycorine (MW: 323.77) derived from the herb Lycoris radiata inhibited pancreatic cancer cell growth with an IC50 value of 1 μM in a concentration-dependent manner. Lycorine markedly reduced pancreatic cancer cell viability, migration, invasion, neovascularization, and gemcitabine resistance. Additionally, lycorine effectively suppressed tumor growth in mouse xenograft models without obvious toxicity. Pharmacological studies revealed that the levels and half-life of Notch1 oncoprotein in the pancreatic cancer cells Panc-1 and Patu8988 were notably reduced. Moreover, the expression of the key vasculogenic genes Semaphorin 4D (Sema4D) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) were also significantly inhibited by lycorine. Mechanistically, lycorine strongly triggered the degradation of Notch1 oncoprotein through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In conclusion, lycorine effectively inhibits pancreatic cancer cell growth, migration, invasion, neovascularization, and gemcitabine resistance by inducing degradation of Notch1 oncoprotein and downregulating the key vasculogenic genes Sema4D and Ang-2. Our findings provide a new therapeutic candidate and treatment strategy against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jindan Qi
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; School of Nursing, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Mei Meng
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Juntao Liu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Song
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Yu Chen
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Yuxi Liu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Xu Li
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Xiang Huang
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- School of Nursing, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, PR China
| | - Quansheng Zhou
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Ministry of Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; 2011 Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, PR China.
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Soochow University, Jiangsu 215123, PR China; CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jiangsu 215123, PR China.
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3
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Wang L, Gu W, Zou B, Kalady M, Xin W, Zhou L. Loss of HES1 expression is associated with extracellular matrix remodeling and tumor immune suppression in KRAS mutant colon adenocarcinomas. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15999. [PMID: 37749297 PMCID: PMC10519992 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42234-7] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The loss of HES1, a canonical Notch signaling target, may cooperate with KRAS mutations to remodel the extracellular matrix and to suppress the anti-tumor immune response. While HES1 expression is normal in benign hyperplastic polyps and normal colon tissue, HES1 expression is often lost in sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSAs/SSPs) and colorectal cancers (CRCs) such as those right-sided CRCs that commonly harbor BRAF or KRAS mutations. To develop a deeper understanding of interaction between KRAS and HES1 in colorectal carcinogenesis, we selected microsatellite stable (MSS) and KRAS mutant or KRAS wild type CRCs that show aberrant expression of HES1 by immunohistochemistry. By comparing the transcriptional landscapes of microsatellite stable (MSS) CRCs with or without nuclear HES1 expression, we investigated differentially expressed genes and activated pathways. We identified pathways and markers in the extracellular matrix and immune microenvironment that are associated with mutations in KRAS. We found that loss of HES1 expression positively correlated with matrix remodeling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition but negatively correlated with tumor cell proliferation. Furthermore, loss of HES1 expression in KRAS mutant CRCs correlates with a higher M2 macrophage polarization and activation of IL6 and IL10 immunosuppressive signature. Identifying these HES1-related markers may be useful for prognosis stratification and developing treatment for KRAS-mutant CRCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenchao Gu
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Bingqing Zou
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew Kalady
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Wei Xin
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of South Alabama Hospital, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Lan Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA.
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Limone A, Maggisano V, Sarnataro D, Bulotta S. Emerging roles of the cellular prion protein (PrP C) and 37/67 kDa laminin receptor (RPSA) interaction in cancer biology. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:207. [PMID: 37452879 PMCID: PMC10349719 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04844-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is well-known for its involvement, under its pathogenic protease-resistant form (PrPSc), in a group of neurodegenerative diseases, known as prion diseases. PrPC is expressed in nervous system, as well as in other peripheral organs, and has been found overexpressed in several types of solid tumors. Notwithstanding, studies in recent years have disclosed an emerging role for PrPC in various cancer associated processes. PrPC has high binding affinity for 37/67 kDa laminin receptor (RPSA), a molecule that acts as a key player in tumorigenesis, affecting cell growth, adhesion, migration, invasion and cell death processes. Recently, we have characterized at cellular level, small molecules able to antagonize the direct PrPC binding to RPSA and their intracellular trafficking. These findings are very crucial considering that the main function of RPSA is to modulate key events in the metastasis cascade. Elucidation of the role played by PrPC/RPSA interaction in regulating tumor development, progression and response to treatment, represents a very promising challenge to gain pathogenetic information and discover novel specific biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets to be exploited in clinical settings. This review attempts to convey a detailed description of the complexity surrounding these multifaceted proteins from the perspective of cancer hallmarks, but with a specific focus on the role of their interaction in the control of proliferation, migration and invasion, genome instability and mutation, as well as resistance to cell death controlled by autophagic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Limone
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Maggisano
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Campus "S. Venuta", 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Daniela Sarnataro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Stefania Bulotta
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Campus "S. Venuta", 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
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Armocida D, Busceti CL, Biagioni F, Fornai F, Frati A. The Role of Cellular Prion Protein in Glioma Tumorigenesis Could Be through the Autophagic Mechanisms: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021405. [PMID: 36674920 PMCID: PMC9865539 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The carcinogenesis of glial tumors appears complex because of the many genetic and epigenetic phenomena involved. Among these, cellular prion protein (PrPC) is considered a key factor in cell-death resistance and important aspect implicated in tumorigenesis. Autophagy also plays an important role in cell death in various pathological conditions. These two cellular phenomena are related and share the same activation by specific alterations in the cellular microenvironment. Furthermore, there is an interdependence between autophagy and prion activity in glioma tumorigenesis. Glioma is one of the most aggressive known cancers, and the fact that such poorly studied processes as autophagy and PrPC activity are so strongly involved in its carcinogenesis suggests that by better understanding their interaction, more can be understood about its origin and treatment. Few studies in the literature relate these two cellular phenomena, much less try to explain their combined activity and role in glioma carcinogenesis. In this study, we explored the recent findings on the molecular mechanism and regulation pathways of autophagy, examining the role of PrPC in autophagy processes and how they may play a central role in glioma tumorigenesis. Among the many molecular interactions that PrP physiologically performs, it appears that processes shared with autophagy activity are those most implicated in glial tumor carcinogeneses such as activity on MAP kinases, PI3K, and mTOR. This work can be supportive and valuable as a basis for further future studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Armocida
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Caserta 6, 00161 Roma, Italy
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Caserta 6, 00161 Roma, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-39-3287-4496
| | - Carla Letizia Busceti
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesca Biagioni
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frati
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
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Lenzi P, Busceti CL, Lazzeri G, Ferese R, Biagioni F, Salvetti A, Pompili E, De Franchis V, Puglisi-Allegra S, Frati A, Ferrucci M, Fornai F. Autophagy Activation Associates with Suppression of Prion Protein and Improved Mitochondrial Status in Glioblastoma Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020221. [PMID: 36672156 PMCID: PMC9857229 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells from glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) feature up-regulation of the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), which brings deleterious effects on malignancy and disease course. At the cellular level, up-regulation of mTOR affects a number of downstream pathways and suppresses autophagy, which is relevant for the neurobiology of GBM. In fact, autophagy acts on several targets, such as protein clearance and mitochondrial status, which are key in promoting the malignancy GBM. A defective protein clearance extends to cellular prion protein (PrPc). Recent evidence indicates that PrPc promotes stemness and alters mitochondrial turnover. Therefore, the present study measures whether in GBM cells abnormal amount of PrPc and mitochondrial alterations are concomitant in baseline conditions and whether they are reverted by mTOR inhibition. Proteins related to mitochondrial turnover were concomitantly assessed. High amounts of PrPc and altered mitochondria were both mitigated dose-dependently by the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin, which produced a persistent activation of the autophagy flux and shifted proliferating cells from S to G1 cell cycle phase. Similarly, mTOR suppression produces a long-lasting increase of proteins promoting mitochondrial turnover, including Pink1/Parkin. These findings provide novel evidence about the role of autophagy in the neurobiology of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Lenzi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Carla L. Busceti
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Gloria Lazzeri
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosangela Ferese
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesca Biagioni
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Alessandra Salvetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Pompili
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio De Franchis
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Puglisi-Allegra
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frati
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, 00135 Roma, Italy
| | - Michela Ferrucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-050-2218667
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Grimaldi I, Leser FS, Janeiro JM, da Rosa BG, Campanelli AC, Romão L, Lima FRS. The multiple functions of PrP C in physiological, cancer, and neurodegenerative contexts. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1405-1425. [PMID: 36056255 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02245-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a highly conserved glycoprotein, present both anchored in the cell membrane and soluble in the extracellular medium. It has a diversity of ligands and is variably expressed in numerous tissues and cell subtypes, most notably in the central nervous system (CNS). Its importance has been brought to light over the years both under physiological conditions, such as embryogenesis and immune system homeostasis, and in pathologies, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. During development, PrPC plays an important role in CNS, participating in axonal growth and guidance and differentiation of glial cells, but also in other organs such as the heart, lung, and digestive system. In diseases, PrPC has been related to several types of tumors, modulating cancer stem cells, enhancing malignant properties, and inducing drug resistance. Also, in non-neoplastic diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, PrPC seems to alter the dynamics of neurotoxic aggregate formation and, consequently, the progression of the disease. In this review, we explore in detail the multiple functions of this protein, which proved to be relevant for understanding the dynamics of organism homeostasis, as well as a promising target in the treatment of both neoplastic and degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabella Grimaldi
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Felipe Saceanu Leser
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - José Marcos Janeiro
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Gomes da Rosa
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Clara Campanelli
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luciana Romão
- Cell Morphogenesis Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Flavia Regina Souza Lima
- Glial Cell Biology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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Kim MJ, Cho YA, Kim E, Choe JY, Park JW, Lee J, Lee JW, Moon SH, Kim YS, Kim SE, Choi EK. Cellular Prion Protein Is Closely Associated with Early Recurrence and Poor Survival in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071635. [PMID: 35885540 PMCID: PMC9316639 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071635] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is known to play a role in cancer proliferation and metastasis. However, the role of PrPC expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. This study investigated whether overexpression of PrPC affects recurrence after surgical resection and survival in HCC. A total of 110 HCC patients who underwent hepatic resection were included. They were followed up for a median of 42 months (range 1–213 months) after hepatectomy. The relationships between PrPC expression and the HCC histologic features, recurrence of HCC following surgical resection, and survival of the patients were examined. Seventy-one cases (64.5%) of HCC demonstrated higher expression of PrPC. The expression of PrPC was only correlated with diabetes mellitus. There was no association between PrPC expression and age, sex, hypertension, hepatitis B virus positivity, alcohol consumption, Child–Pugh class, major portal vein invasion, serum alpha-fetoprotein, and HCC size or number. The 1-year recurrence rates in patients with higher PrPC expression were higher than those with lower PrPC expression. The cumulative survival rates of patients with higher PrPC expression were significantly shorter than those of patients with lower PrPC expression. In conclusion, PrPC expression is closely associated with early recurrence and poor survival of HCC patients following surgical resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Jong Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Seoul 07247, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School, Hallym University, Chunchoen 24252, Korea
| | - Yoon-Ah Cho
- Department of Pathology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea;
| | - Eunhye Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea; (E.K.); (J.-W.P.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Ji-Young Choe
- Anatomic Pathology Reference Lab, Seegene Medical Foundation, Suwon 16580, Korea;
| | - Ji-Won Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea; (E.K.); (J.-W.P.); (S.-H.M.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Junyong Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul Medical Center, Seoul 02053, Korea;
| | - Jung-Woo Lee
- Department of Surgery, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea;
| | - Sung-Hoon Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea; (E.K.); (J.-W.P.); (S.-H.M.)
| | - Yong-Sun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Seoul 07247, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Anyang 14068, Korea; (E.K.); (J.-W.P.); (S.-H.M.)
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-E.K.); (E.-K.C.)
| | - Eun-Kyoung Choi
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Seoul 07247, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School, Hallym University, Chunchoen 24252, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-E.K.); (E.-K.C.)
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Mohammadi B, Song F, Matamoros-Angles A, Shafiq M, Damme M, Puig B, Glatzel M, Altmeppen HC. Anchorless risk or released benefit? An updated view on the ADAM10-mediated shedding of the prion protein. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:215-234. [PMID: 35084572 PMCID: PMC10113312 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03582-4] [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: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) is a broadly expressed glycoprotein linked with a multitude of (suggested) biological and pathological implications. Some of these roles seem to be due to constitutively generated proteolytic fragments of the protein. Among them is a soluble PrP form, which is released from the surface of neurons and other cell types by action of the metalloprotease ADAM10 in a process termed 'shedding'. The latter aspect is the focus of this review, which aims to provide a comprehensive overview on (i) the relevance of proteolytic processing in regulating cellular PrP functions, (ii) currently described involvement of shed PrP in neurodegenerative diseases (including prion diseases and Alzheimer's disease), (iii) shed PrP's expected roles in intercellular communication in many more (patho)physiological conditions (such as stroke, cancer or immune responses), (iv) and the need for improved research tools in respective (future) studies. Deeper mechanistic insight into roles played by PrP shedding and its resulting fragment may pave the way for improved diagnostics and future therapeutic approaches in diseases of the brain and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Mohammadi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Working Group for Interdisciplinary Neurobiology and Immunology (INI Research), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Feizhi Song
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreu Matamoros-Angles
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mohsin Shafiq
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Damme
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Berta Puig
- Department of Neurology, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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10
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Mouillet-Richard S, Ghazi A, Laurent-Puig P. The Cellular Prion Protein and the Hallmarks of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13195032. [PMID: 34638517 PMCID: PMC8508458 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13195032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The cellular prion protein PrPC is best known for its involvement, under its pathogenic isoform, in a group of neurodegenerative diseases. Notwithstanding, an emerging role for PrPC in various cancer-associated processes has attracted increasing attention over recent years. PrPC is overexpressed in diverse types of solid cancers and has been incriminated in various aspects of cancer biology, most notably proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis, as well as resistance to cytotoxic agents. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of PrPC with respect to the hallmarks of cancer, a reference framework encompassing the major characteristics of cancer cells. Abstract Beyond its causal involvement in a group of neurodegenerative diseases known as Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies, the cellular prion protein PrPC is now taking centre stage as an important contributor to cancer progression in various types of solid tumours. The prion cancer research field has progressively expanded in the last few years and has yielded consistent evidence for an involvement of PrPC in cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion, therapeutic resistance and cancer stem cell properties. Most recent data have uncovered new facets of the biology of PrPC in cancer, ranging from its control on enzymes involved in immune tolerance to its radio-protective activity, by way of promoting angiogenesis. In the present review, we aim to summarise the body of literature dedicated to the study of PrPC in relation to cancer from the perspective of the hallmarks of cancer, the reference framework defined by Hanahan and Weinberg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Mouillet-Richard
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75006 Paris, France; (A.G.); (P.L.-P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alexandre Ghazi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75006 Paris, France; (A.G.); (P.L.-P.)
| | - Pierre Laurent-Puig
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, F-75006 Paris, France; (A.G.); (P.L.-P.)
- Department of Biology, Institut du Cancer Paris CARPEM, APHP, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, F-75015 Paris, France
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11
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Ding M, Chen Y, Lang Y, Cui L. The Role of Cellular Prion Protein in Cancer Biology: A Potential Therapeutic Target. Front Oncol 2021; 11:742949. [PMID: 34595121 PMCID: PMC8476782 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.742949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion protein has two isoforms including cellular prion protein (PrPC) and scrapie prion protein (PrPSc). PrPSc is the pathological aggregated form of prion protein and it plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases. PrPC is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein that can attach to a membrane. Its expression begins at embryogenesis and reaches the highest level in adulthood. PrPC is expressed in the neurons of the nervous system as well as other peripheral organs. Studies in recent years have disclosed the involvement of PrPC in various aspects of cancer biology. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the roles of PrPC in proliferation, cell survival, invasion/metastasis, and stem cells of cancer cells, as well as its role as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manqiu Ding
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yongqiang Chen
- CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Yue Lang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Li Cui
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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12
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Cha S, Sin MJ, Kim MJ, Kim HJ, Kim YS, Choi EK, Kim MY. Involvement of Cellular Prion Protein in Invasion and Metastasis of Lung Cancer by Inducing Treg Cell Development. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020285. [PMID: 33671884 PMCID: PMC7918983 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a cell surface glycoprotein expressed in many cell types that plays an important role in normal cellular processes. However, an increase in PrPC expression has been associated with a variety of human cancers, where it may be involved in resistance to the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. PrP-deficient (Prnp0/0) and PrP-overexpressing (Tga20) mice were studied to evaluate the role of PrPC in the invasion and metastasis of cancer. Tga20 mice, with increased PrPC, died more quickly from lung cancer than did the Prnp0/0 mice, and this effect was associated with increased transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), which are important for the development and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells. The number of FoxP3+CD25+ Treg cells was increased in Tga20 mice compared to Prnp0/0 mice, but there was no significant difference in either natural killer or cytotoxic T cell numbers. In addition, mice infected with the ME7 scrapie strain had decreased numbers of Treg cells and decreased expression of TGF-β and PD-L1. These results suggest that PrPC plays an important role in invasion and metastasis of cancer cells by inducing Treg cells through upregulation of TGF-β and PD-L1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghwa Cha
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Mi-Ji Sin
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Mo-Jong Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School of Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Hee-Jun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Yong-Sun Kim
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Eun-Kyoung Choi
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Anyang 14066, Korea; (M.-J.K.); (H.-J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Graduate School of Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.-K.C.); (M.-Y.K.)
| | - Mi-Yeon Kim
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Korea; (S.C.); (M.-J.S.)
- Correspondence: (E.-K.C.); (M.-Y.K.)
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13
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The Role of Cellular Prion Protein in Promoting Stemness and Differentiation in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020170. [PMID: 33418999 PMCID: PMC7825291 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aside from its well-established role in prion disorders, in the last decades the significance of cellular prion protein (PrPC) expression in human cancers has attracted great attention. An extensive body of work provided evidence that PrPC contributes to tumorigenesis by regulating tumor growth, differentiation, and resistance to conventional therapies. In particular, PrPC over-expression has been related to the acquisition of a malignant phenotype of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in a variety of solid tumors, encompassing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, osteosarcoma, breast, gastric, and colorectal cancers, and primary brain tumors as well. According to consensus, increased levels of PrPC endow CSCs with self-renewal, proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities, along with increased resistance to anti-cancer agents. In addition, increasing evidence demonstrates that PrPc also participates in multi-protein complexes to modulate the oncogenic properties of CSCs, thus sustaining tumorigenesis. Therefore, strategies aimed at targeting PrPC and/or PrPC-organized complexes could be a promising approach for anti-cancer therapy. Abstract Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is seminal to modulate a variety of baseline cell functions to grant homeostasis. The classic role of such a protein was defined as a chaperone-like molecule being able to rescue cell survival. Nonetheless, PrPC also represents the precursor of the deleterious misfolded variant known as scrapie prion protein (PrPSc). This variant is detrimental in a variety of prion disorders. This multi-faceted role of PrP is greatly increased by recent findings showing how PrPC in its folded conformation may foster tumor progression by acting at multiple levels. The present review focuses on such a cancer-promoting effect. The manuscript analyzes recent findings on the occurrence of PrPC in various cancers and discusses the multiple effects, which sustain cancer progression. Within this frame, the effects of PrPC on stemness and differentiation are discussed. A special emphasis is provided on the spreading of PrPC and the epigenetic effects, which are induced in neighboring cells to activate cancer-related genes. These detrimental effects are further discussed in relation to the aberrancy of its physiological and beneficial role on cell homeostasis. A specific paragraph is dedicated to the role of PrPC beyond its effects in the biology of cancer to represent a potential biomarker in the follow up of patients following surgical resection.
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The Cellular Prion Protein: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239208. [PMID: 33276687 PMCID: PMC7730109 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies on the cellular prion protein (PrPC) have been actively conducted because misfolded PrPC is known to cause transmissible spongiform encephalopathies or prion disease. PrPC is a glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored cell surface glycoprotein that has been reported to affect several cellular functions such as stress protection, cellular differentiation, mitochondrial homeostasis, circadian rhythm, myelin homeostasis, and immune modulation. Recently, it has also been reported that PrPC mediates tumor progression by enhancing the proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance of cancer cells. In addition, PrPC regulates cancer stem cell properties by interacting with cancer stem cell marker proteins. In this review, we summarize how PrPC promotes tumor progression in terms of proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance, and cancer stem cell properties. In addition, we discuss strategies to treat tumors by modulating the function and expression of PrPC via the regulation of HSPA1L/HIF-1α expression and using an anti-prion antibody.
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15
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Prado MB, Melo Escobar MI, Alves RN, Coelho BP, Fernandes CFDL, Boccacino JM, Iglesia RP, Lopes MH. Prion Protein at the Leading Edge: Its Role in Cell Motility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6677. [PMID: 32932634 PMCID: PMC7555277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell motility is a central process involved in fundamental biological phenomena during embryonic development, wound healing, immune surveillance, and cancer spreading. Cell movement is complex and dynamic and requires the coordinated activity of cytoskeletal, membrane, adhesion and extracellular proteins. Cellular prion protein (PrPC) has been implicated in distinct aspects of cell motility, including axonal growth, transendothelial migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, formation of lamellipodia, and tumor migration and invasion. The preferential location of PrPC on cell membrane favors its function as a pivotal molecule in cell motile phenotype, being able to serve as a scaffold protein for extracellular matrix proteins, cell surface receptors, and cytoskeletal multiprotein complexes to modulate their activities in cellular movement. Evidence points to PrPC mediating interactions of multiple key elements of cell motility at the intra- and extracellular levels, such as integrins and matrix proteins, also regulating cell adhesion molecule stability and cell adhesion cytoskeleton dynamics. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern cell motility is critical for tissue homeostasis, since uncontrolled cell movement results in pathological conditions such as developmental diseases and tumor dissemination. In this review, we discuss the relevant contribution of PrPC in several aspects of cell motility, unveiling new insights into both PrPC function and mechanism in a multifaceted manner either in physiological or pathological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marilene Hohmuth Lopes
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (M.B.P.); (M.I.M.E.); (R.N.A.); (B.P.C.); (C.F.d.L.F.); (J.M.B.); (R.P.I.)
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16
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Bianchini M, Giambelluca MA, Scavuzzo MC, Di Franco G, Guadagni S, Palmeri M, Furbetta N, Gianardi D, Funel N, Pollina LE, Di Candio G, Fornai F, Morelli L. The occurrence of prion protein in surgically resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Pancreatology 2020; 20:1218-1225. [PMID: 32828686 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the several new targets for the comprehension of the biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), Prion proteins (PrPc) deserve particular mention, since they share a marked neurotropism. Actually, PrPc could have also a role in tumorigenesis, as recently demonstrated. However, only few in vitro studies in cell cultures showed the occurrence of PrPc in PDAC cells. We aim to evaluate the presence of PrPc in vivo in PDAC tissues as a potential new biomarker. METHODS Samples from tumors of 23 patients undergone pancreatic resections from July 2018 to May 2020 at our institution were collected and analyzed. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting of PDAC tissues were compared with control tissues. Immunohistochemistry was used also to evaluate the localization of PrPc and of CD155, a tumoral stem-cell marker. RESULTS All cases were moderately differentiated PDAC, with perineural invasion (PNI) in 19/23 cases (83%). According to western-blot analysis, PrPc was markedly expressed in PDAC tissues (273.5 ± 44.63 OD) respect to controls (100 ± 28.35 OD, p = 0.0018). Immunohistochemistry confirmed these findings, with higher linear staining of PrPc in PDAC ducts (127.145 ± 7.56 μm vs 75.21 ± 5.01 μm, p < 0.0001). PrPc and CD155 exactly overlapped in ductal tumoral cells, highlighting the possible relationship of PrPc with cancer stemness. Finally, PrPc expression related with cancer stage and there was a potential correspondence with PNI. CONCLUSIONS Our work provides evidence for increased levels of PrPc in PDAC. This might contribute to cancer aggressiveness and provides a potentially new biomarker. Work is in progress to decipher clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Bianchini
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Anita Giambelluca
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Scavuzzo
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gregorio Di Franco
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Guadagni
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Palmeri
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Niccolò Furbetta
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Desirée Gianardi
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Niccola Funel
- Division of Surgical Pathology, Department of Surgical, Medical Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Emanuele Pollina
- Division of Surgical Pathology, Department of Surgical, Medical Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulio Di Candio
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy; IRCCS Neuromed - Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo, 86077, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy; EndoCAS (Center for Computer Assisted Surgery), University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
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Thellung S, Corsaro A, Bosio AG, Zambito M, Barbieri F, Mazzanti M, Florio T. Emerging Role of Cellular Prion Protein in the Maintenance and Expansion of Glioma Stem Cells. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111458. [PMID: 31752162 PMCID: PMC6912268 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a membrane-anchored glycoprotein representing the physiological counterpart of PrP scrapie (PrPSc), which plays a pathogenetic role in prion diseases. Relatively little information is however available about physiological role of PrPC. Although PrPC ablation in mice does not induce lethal phenotypes, impairment of neuronal and bone marrow plasticity was reported in embryos and adult animals. In neurons, PrPC stimulates neurite growth, prevents oxidative stress-dependent cell death, and favors antiapoptotic signaling. However, PrPC activity is not restricted to post-mitotic neurons, but promotes cell proliferation and migration during embryogenesis and tissue regeneration in adult. PrPC acts as scaffold to stabilize the binding between different membrane receptors, growth factors, and basement proteins, contributing to tumorigenesis. Indeed, ablation of PrPC expression reduces cancer cell proliferation and migration and restores cell sensitivity to chemotherapy. Conversely, PrPC overexpression in cancer stem cells (CSCs) from different tumors, including gliomas—the most malignant brain tumors—is predictive for poor prognosis, and correlates with relapses. The mechanisms of the PrPC role in tumorigenesis and its molecular partners in this activity are the topic of the present review, with a particular focus on PrPC contribution to glioma CSCs multipotency, invasiveness, and tumorigenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Thellung
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Alessandro Corsaro
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Alessia G. Bosio
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Martina Zambito
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Federica Barbieri
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
| | - Michele Mazzanti
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Correspondence: (T.F.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-01-0353-8806 (T.F.); +39-02-5031-4958 (M.M.)
| | - Tullio Florio
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna & Centro di Eccellenza per la Ricerca Biomedica (CEBR), Università di Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.T.); (A.C.); (A.G.B.); (M.Z.); (F.B.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (T.F.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-01-0353-8806 (T.F.); +39-02-5031-4958 (M.M.)
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Ryskalin L, Busceti CL, Biagioni F, Limanaqi F, Familiari P, Frati A, Fornai F. Prion Protein in Glioblastoma Multiforme. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205107. [PMID: 31618844 PMCID: PMC6834196 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPc) is an evolutionarily conserved cell surface protein encoded by the PRNP gene. PrPc is ubiquitously expressed within nearly all mammalian cells, though most abundantly within the CNS. Besides being implicated in the pathogenesis and transmission of prion diseases, recent studies have demonstrated that PrPc contributes to tumorigenesis by regulating tumor growth, differentiation, and resistance to conventional therapies. In particular, PrPc over-expression has been related to the acquisition of a malignant phenotype of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in a variety of solid tumors, encompassing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), osteosarcoma, breast cancer, gastric cancer, and primary brain tumors, mostly glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Thus, PrPc is emerging as a key in maintaining glioblastoma cancer stem cells’ (GSCs) phenotype, thereby strongly affecting GBM infiltration and relapse. In fact, PrPc contributes to GSCs niche’s maintenance by modulating GSCs’ stem cell-like properties while restraining them from differentiation. This is the first review that discusses the role of PrPc in GBM. The manuscript focuses on how PrPc may act on GSCs to modify their expression and translational profile while making the micro-environment surrounding the GSCs niche more favorable to GBM growth and infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ryskalin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Carla L Busceti
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy.
| | | | - Fiona Limanaqi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Pietro Familiari
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs NESMOS, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
- I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy.
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Uchibori M, Aoyama KI, Ota Y, Kajiwara K, Tanaka M, Kimura M. A mutation in NOTCH1 ligand binding region detected in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma reduces NOTCH1 oncogenic effect. Oncol Rep 2017; 38:2237-2242. [DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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