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Hu M, Yuan L, Zhu J. The Dual Role of NRF2 in Colorectal Cancer: Targeting NRF2 as a Potential Therapeutic Approach. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:5985-6004. [PMID: 39247839 PMCID: PMC11380863 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s479794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC), as the third most common bisexual cancer worldwide, requires urgent research on its underlying mechanisms and intervention methods. NRF2 is an important transcription factor involved in the regulation of redox homeostasis, protein degradation, DNA repair, and other cancer processes, playing an important role in cancer. In recent years, the complex role of NRF2 in CRC has been continuously revealed: on the one hand, it exhibits a chemopreventive effect on cancer by protecting normal cells from oxidative stress, and on the other hand, it also exhibits a protective effect on malignant cells. Therefore, this article explores the dual role of NRF2 and its related signaling pathways in CRC, including their chemical protective properties and promoting effects in the occurrence, development, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance of CRC. In addition, this article focuses on exploring the regulation of NRF2 in CRC ferroptosis, as well as NRF2 drug modulators (activators and inhibitors) targeting CRC, including natural products, compounds, and traditional Chinese medicine formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyun Hu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Yuan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Oncology Department II, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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Hu D, Zhang Z, Luo X, Li S, Jiang J, Zhang J, Wu Z, Wang Y, Sun M, Chen X, Zhang B, Xu X, Wang S, Xu S, Wang Y, Huang W, Xia L. Transcription factor BACH1 in cancer: roles, mechanisms, and prospects for targeted therapy. Biomark Res 2024; 12:21. [PMID: 38321558 PMCID: PMC10848553 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00570-4] [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: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor BTB domain and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) belongs to the Cap 'n' Collar and basic region Leucine Zipper (CNC-bZIP) family. BACH1 is widely expressed in mammalian tissues, where it regulates epigenetic modifications, heme homeostasis, and oxidative stress. Additionally, it is involved in immune system development. More importantly, BACH1 is highly expressed in and plays a key role in numerous malignant tumors, affecting cellular metabolism, tumor invasion and metastasis, proliferation, different cell death pathways, drug resistance, and the tumor microenvironment. However, few articles systematically summarized the roles of BACH1 in cancer. This review aims to highlight the research status of BACH1 in malignant tumor behaviors, and summarize its role in immune regulation in cancer. Moreover, this review focuses on the potential of BACH1 as a novel therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker. Notably, the mechanisms underlying the roles of BACH1 in ferroptosis, oxidative stress and tumor microenvironment remain to be explored. BACH1 has a dual impact on cancer, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of targeted drug delivery. Finally, the promising directions of future BACH1 research are prospected. A systematical and clear understanding of BACH1 would undoubtedly take us one step closer to facilitating its translation from basic research into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zerui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiangyuan Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Siwen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Junqing Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jiaqian Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhangfan Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mengyu Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Westlake university school of medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Shengjun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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Sun Y, Xu L, Zheng D, Wang J, Liu G, Mo Z, Liu C, Zhang W, Yu J, Xing C, He L, Zhuang C. A potent phosphodiester Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitor as the efficient treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Redox Biol 2023; 64:102793. [PMID: 37385075 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Keap1-Nrf2 pathway has been established as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Directly inhibiting the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between Keap1 and Nrf2 has been reported as an effective strategy for treating AD. Our group has validated this in an AD mouse model for the first time using the inhibitor 1,4-diaminonaphthalene NXPZ-2 with high concentrations. In the present study, we reported a new phosphodiester containing diaminonaphthalene compound, POZL, designed to target the PPI interface using a structure-based design strategy to combat oxidative stress in AD pathogenesis. Our crystallographic verification confirms that POZL shows potent Keap1-Nrf2 inhibition. Remarkably, POZL showed its high in vivo anti-AD efficacy at a much lower dosage compared to NXPZ-2 in the transgenic APP/PS1 AD mouse model. POZL treatment in the transgenic mice could effectively ameliorate learning and memory dysfunction by promoting the Nrf2 nuclear translocation. As a result, the oxidative stress and AD biomarker expression such as BACE1 and hyperphosphorylation of Tau were significantly reduced, and the synaptic function was recovered. HE and Nissl staining confirmed that POZL improved brain tissue pathological changes by enhancing neuron quantity and function. Furthermore, it was confirmed that POZL could effectively reverse Aβ-caused synaptic damage by activating Nrf2 in primary cultured cortical neurons. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that the phosphodiester diaminonaphthalene Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitor could be regarded as a promising preclinical candidate of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lijuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Dongpeng Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Guodong Liu
- The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zixin Mo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wannian Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jianqiang Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Chengguo Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; The Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Song Q, Mao X, Jing M, Fu Y, Yan W. Pathophysiological role of BACH transcription factors in digestive system diseases. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1121353. [PMID: 37228820 PMCID: PMC10203417 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1121353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BTB and CNC homologous (BACH) proteins, including BACH1 and BACH2, are transcription factors that are widely expressed in human tissues. BACH proteins form heterodimers with small musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma (MAF) proteins to suppress the transcription of target genes. Furthermore, BACH1 promotes the transcription of target genes. BACH proteins regulate physiological processes, such as the differentiation of B cells and T cells, mitochondrial function, and heme homeostasis as well as pathogenesis related to inflammation, oxidative-stress damage caused by drugs, toxicants, or infections; autoimmunity disorders; and cancer angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, chemotherapy resistance, progression, and metabolism. In this review, we discuss the function of BACH proteins in the digestive system, including the liver, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and pancreas. BACH proteins directly target genes or indirectly regulate downstream molecules to promote or inhibit biological phenomena such as inflammation, tumor angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. BACH proteins are also regulated by proteins, miRNAs, LncRNAs, labile iron, and positive and negative feedback. Additionally, we summarize a list of regulators targeting these proteins. Our review provides a reference for future studies on targeted drugs in digestive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianben Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xin Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mengjia Jing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Occhiuto CJ, Moerland JA, Leal AS, Gallo KA, Liby KT. The Multi-Faceted Consequences of NRF2 Activation throughout Carcinogenesis. Mol Cells 2023; 46:176-186. [PMID: 36994476 PMCID: PMC10070161 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.2191] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The oxidative balance of a cell is maintained by the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway. This cytoprotective pathway detoxifies reactive oxygen species and xenobiotics. The role of the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway as pro-tumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic throughout stages of carcinogenesis (including initiation, promotion, progression, and metastasis) is complex. This mini review focuses on key studies describing how the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway affects cancer at different phases. The data compiled suggest that the roles of KEAP1/NRF2 in cancer are highly dependent on context; specifically, the model used (carcinogen-induced vs genetic), the tumor type, and the stage of cancer. Moreover, emerging data suggests that KEAP1/NRF2 is also important for regulating the tumor microenvironment and how its effects are amplified either by epigenetics or in response to co-occurring mutations. Further elucidation of the complexity of this pathway is needed in order to develop novel pharmacological tools and drugs to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Occhiuto
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jessica A. Moerland
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Ana S. Leal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Kathleen A. Gallo
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Karen T. Liby
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Chang LC, Fan CW, Tseng WK, Chen JR, Hua CC. The tumor/normal tissue ratio of Keap1 protein is a predictor for lymphovascular invasion in colorectal cancer: A correlation study between the Nrf2 and KRas pathways. Biomarkers 2022; 27:701-707. [PMID: 35830714 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2022.2102211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE: Oxidative stress has impacts on the KRas and Nrf2/Keap1 pathways, which have multiple interactions with each other and play important roles in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study investigated the expressions of proteins in the KRas and Nrf2/Keap1 pathways and their associations with clinicopathological features in CRC.METHODS: The protein levels of Nrf2, Keap1, Bach1, p62, HO1, KRas, Erk, Raf1 and PI3K in both the tumor and normal tissues of 60 CRC subjects were determined by Western blot and their T/N (tumor/normal tissue) ratios were correlated with clinicopathological features.RESULTS: The T/N ratios of proteins in the KRas and Nrf2/Keap1 pathways had correlation patterns and proximity profiles in cluster dendrograms different in CRC with different status of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) or lymph node/distant metastases. The Keap1 protein T/N ratio was a significant predictor (odd ratio: 2.24; 95% confidence interval: 1.26 - 4.38) of LVI, which in turn predicted metastases (11.0; 3.49 - 39.8).CONCLUSION: The interactions between the KRas and Nrf2/Keap1 pathways may be affected differently by LVI and metastases, and the protein T/N ratio of Keap1 may be helpful for predicting LVI in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Che Chang
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung university, Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Wei Fan
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung university Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Ko Tseng
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung university Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Jim-Ray Chen
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung university, Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Ching Hua
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung university Keelung, Republic of China
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Chang LC, Fan CW, Tseng WK, Hua CC. The level of S-glutathionylated protein is a predictor for metastasis in colorectal cancer and correlated with those of Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. Biomarkers 2021; 26:780-787. [PMID: 34704878 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2021.1999503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2; NFE2L2)/Keap1 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) pathway and the TXN (thioredoxin)/GSH (glutathione) system interact mutually and regulate cellular redox with impacts on cancer metastasis and S-glutathionylation of protein, which is an indicator of cell distress. This study investigates the levels of proteins in the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and the TXN/GSH system and SGP (S-glutathionylated protein) in CRC (colorectal cancer) with or without metastasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The protein levels of Nrf2, Keap1, Bach1 (BTB domain and CNC homolog 1), TXN, TXNRD1 (thioredoxin reductase 1), GSR (glutathione reductase) and SGP with molecular weight 31-172 kDa in the normal and tumour tissues of 64 CRC subjects were determined by Western blot. RESULTS The protein levels and their T/N (tumour/normal tissue) ratios of the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, the TXN/GSH system and SGP were correlated to different extents in the tissues of CRC subjects with or without lymph node/distant metastasis. The T/N ratios of SGP (odd ratio: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.04-0.74) and lympho-vascular invasion (4.2; 1.39-13.73) were significant predictors for metastasis. CONCLUSIONS SGPs have protein levels correlated with those of the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and their T/N ratios are a negative predictor for metastasis in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Che Chang
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Wei Fan
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Ko Tseng
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Ching Hua
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and Chang Gung University Keelung, Republic of China Keelung
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Gao Z, Shi Y, Wang J, Li W, Bao Y, Wu D, Gu Y. Long non-coding RNA NEAT1 absorbs let-7 g-5p to induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition of colon cancer cells through upregulating BACH1. Dig Liver Dis 2021:S1590-8658(21)00216-4. [PMID: 34238666 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical regulators in diverse human cancers. However, the role of lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in colon cancer remains to be further investigated. We aimed to verify the role of NEAT1/let-7 g-5p/BTB and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) axis in colon cancer development. METHODS Expression of NEAT1, let-7 g-5p and BACH1 in colon cancer tissues and cells was determined. The interactions between NEAT1 and let-7 g-5p, and between let-7 g-5p and BACH1 were assessed. The colon cancer cell lines were treated with plasmids or oligonucleotides to alter NEAT1, BACH1 and let-7 g-5p expression. Then, viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of colon cells were evaluated, and the cell growth in vivo was observed as well. RESULTS NEAT1 and BACH1 were upregulated while let-7 g-5p was downregulated in colon cancer tissues and cells. NEAT1/BACH1 silencing or let-7 g-5p elevation suppressed colon cancer cell growth in vivo and in vitro. The effects of silenced NEAT1 on colon cancer cells and xenografts were reversed by downregulating let-7 g-5p. Down-regulation of BACH1 reversed the effect of NEAT1 overexpression on colon cancer cells. NEAT1 directly bound to let-7 g-5p and let-7 g-5p targeted BACH1. CONCLUSION Downregulated NEAT1 elevated let-7 g-5p to suppress EMT of colon cancer cells through inhibiting BACH1. This research may contribute to treatment of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Gao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, zhejiang Province, China; Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu Shi
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi Bao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dongjuan Wu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yanhong Gu
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Zhao Y, Gao J, Xie X, Nan P, Liu F, Sun Y, Zhao X. BACH1 promotes the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis. Cancer Med 2021; 10:3413-3426. [PMID: 33932125 PMCID: PMC8124123 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis to regional lymph nodes or distal organs predicts the progression of the disease and poor prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Previous studies demonstrated that BTB and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) participates in various types of tumor metastasis. However, the function of BACH1 in ESCC was rarely reported. The present study demonstrated that BACH1 protein was overexpressed in ESCC tissues compared with paired esophageal epithelial tissues according to immunohistochemical staining (IHC). Higher levels of BACH1 mRNA were associated with decreased overall survival (OS) and shorter disease‐free survival (DFS) of ESCC patients based on an analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. BACH1 significantly enhanced the migration and invasion of ESCC in vitro. Mechanistically, BACH1 promoted the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) by directly activating the transcription of CDH2, SNAI2, and VIM, as determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ChIP‐qPCR). BACH1 overexpression significantly enhanced CDH2 promoter activity according to the results of a luciferase assay. The results of subsequent experiments indicated that BACH1 enhanced the growth of tumor xenografts. The density of CD31+ blood vessels and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC) in tumor xenografts were significantly associated with BACH1 levels according to the results of IHC and immunofluorescence (IF) analyses performed in vivo. Moreover, ChIP‐qPCR analysis demonstrated that the transcriptional activity of VEGFC was also upregulated by BACH1. Thus, BACH1 contributes to ESCC metastasis and tumorigenesis by partially facilitating the EMT and angiogenesis, and BACH1 may be a promising therapeutic target or molecular marker in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiajia Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiufeng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Nan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yulin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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10
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Li D, Sun D, Zhu Y. Expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2, broad complex-tramtrack-bric a brac and Cap'n'collar homology 1 and γ-glutamic acid cysteine synthase in peripheral blood of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its clinical significance. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:516. [PMID: 33815589 PMCID: PMC8014872 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship between nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/BTB-CNC allogeneic 1 (Bach1)/γ-glutamic acid cysteine synthase (γ-GCS) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The expression of Nrf2, Bach1, γ-GCS mRNA and protein in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 80 COPD patients and 40 healthy volunteers were studied. Then, the correlation between Nrf2, Bach1, γ-GCS and lung function, inflammation and oxidative stress indicators was analyzed. Compared with healthy controls, Nrf2, Bach1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased in the PBMCs of COPD patients, while γ-GCS mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased. Nrf2 and Bach1 protein levels in the nucleus were significantly elevated in acute exacerbation COPD patients compared with patients with a stable stage of COPD, while γ-GCS mRNA levels were significantly reduced. In addition, it was found that Nrf2 nuclear protein levels were significantly reduced in COPD patients compared with the control group, while Bach1 nuclear protein levels were significantly increased. Correlation analysis in COPD group demonstrated that γ-GCS mRNA was positively correlated with Nrf2 nuclear protein level, but negatively correlated with Bach1 nuclear protein level. Further analysis demonstrated that γ-GCS mRNA and Nrf2 protein in the nucleus was positively correlated with forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC)% and FEV1% predicted, and Bach1 protein in the nucleus was negatively correlated with FEV1/FVC% and FEV1% predicted. Additionally, the expression levels of Nrf2, Bach1 and γ-GCS were also associated with smoking. The expression of Nrf2, Bach1 and γ-GCS in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with COPD was dysregulated and related to lung function, which provides a new basis for exploring further the pathogenesis of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongrong Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Ding Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Yehan Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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Jaganjac M, Milkovic L, Sunjic SB, Zarkovic N. The NRF2, Thioredoxin, and Glutathione System in Tumorigenesis and Anticancer Therapies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E1151. [PMID: 33228209 PMCID: PMC7699519 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains an elusive, highly complex disease and a global burden. Constant change by acquired mutations and metabolic reprogramming contribute to the high inter- and intratumor heterogeneity of malignant cells, their selective growth advantage, and their resistance to anticancer therapies. In the modern era of integrative biomedicine, realizing that a personalized approach could benefit therapy treatments and patients' prognosis, we should focus on cancer-driving advantageous modifications. Namely, reactive oxygen species (ROS), known to act as regulators of cellular metabolism and growth, exhibit both negative and positive activities, as do antioxidants with potential anticancer effects. Such complexity of oxidative homeostasis is sometimes overseen in the case of studies evaluating the effects of potential anticancer antioxidants. While cancer cells often produce more ROS due to their increased growth-favoring demands, numerous conventional anticancer therapies exploit this feature to ensure selective cancer cell death triggered by excessive ROS levels, also causing serious side effects. The activation of the cellular NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2 like 2) pathway and induction of cytoprotective genes accompanies an increase in ROS levels. A plethora of specific targets, including those involved in thioredoxin (TRX) and glutathione (GSH) systems, are activated by NRF2. In this paper, we briefly review preclinical research findings on the interrelated roles of the NRF2 pathway and TRX and GSH systems, with focus given to clinical findings and their relevance in carcinogenesis and anticancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Neven Zarkovic
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (L.M.); (S.B.S.)
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Wang Q, Xu L, Wang G, Chen L, Li C, Jiang X, Gao H, Yang B, Tian W. Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of NRF2 expression in non-small cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241241. [PMID: 33186371 PMCID: PMC7665804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) functions as a transcription factor and regulates a wide array of antioxidant and stress-responsive genes. NRF2 has been widely implicated in different types of cancers, but only limited studies concerning the relationship between NRF2 expression and tumour invasion or prognosis in lung cancer. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to determine the prognostic value of NRF2 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The relationship between NRF2 expression in NSCLC patients and clinicopathological features was also investigated. Overall survival (OS) and treatment response rate were evaluated using STATA software. Twenty eligible articles with 2530 lung cancer patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results revealed that high expression level of NRF2 was associated with pathologic distant metastasis (odds ratio (OR) = 2.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.62-4.31; P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.53-3.00; P < 0.001), and tumour node metastasis (TNM) stage (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.52-2.49, P < 0.001). High NRF2 expression was associated with low treatment response rate in platinum-based chemotherapy (HR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.02-0.51; P = 0.005). High expression level of NRF2 is predictive for poor overall survival rate (HR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.44-2.41, P < 0.001) and poor progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.26-4.09, P = 0.006). Compared to patients with a low level of NRF2 expression, patients with high NRF2 expression levels were associated with worse OS and PFS when given the chemotherapy or EGFR-TKI. Together, our meta-analysis results suggest that NRF2 can act as a potential indicator of NSCLC tumour aggressiveness and help the prognosis and design of a better treatment strategy for NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingsong Wang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Xu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Changping Li
- Department of Health Statistics, College of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiangli Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hai Gao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Weiping Tian
- Tianjin Research Center of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Chang LC, Fan CW, Tseng WK, Hua CC. Associations between the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and mitochondrial functions in colorectal cancer are affected by metastasis. Cancer Biomark 2020; 27:163-171. [PMID: 31796664 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-190828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both mitochondria and the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway are targets of cancer therapy. Reactive oxygen species released from mitochondria can activate Nrf2, and the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway affects glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the associations between the expressions of proteins in the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and those related to mitochondrial function and glycolysis in colorectal cancer (CRC) with or without metastasis. METHODS The protein levels of HO1, Nrf2, Keap1, Bach1, p21, p62, NRF1, LC3, ATP5B, HSP60 and GAPDH in the normal and tumor tissues of 60 CRC subjects were determined by Western blot. RESULTS The Keap1 protein levels, the ATP5B/HSP60 ratio and the BEC index were higher in the tumor than in the normal tissues of CRC with or without metastasis. The following clusters were found in the dendrogram: Nrf2 and p21 with ATP5B and GADPH in all the tissues and with NRF1 in all except the tumor tissues with metastasis; Bach1 with ATP5B and GAPDH in the tumor tissues; Keap1 with p62 in all the tissues, with LC3 in the tumor tissues and with NRF1 and HO1 in the tumor tissues with metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Nrf2, Keap1, Bach1 and p21 have the association with the proteins related to mitochondrial functions different among the tissues of CRC with or without metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Che Chang
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Wei Fan
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ko Tseng
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ching Hua
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung and Chang Gung University, Keelung, Taiwan
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Modulation of Oxidative Stress by Ozone Therapy in the Prevention and Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicity: Review and Prospects. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8120588. [PMID: 31779159 PMCID: PMC6943601 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8120588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy attempt to kill tumor cells by different mechanisms mediated by an intracellular increase of free radicals. However, free radicals can also increase in healthy cells and lead to oxidative stress, resulting in further damage to healthy tissues. Approaches to prevent or treat many of these side effects are limited. Ozone therapy can induce a controlled oxidative stress able to stimulate an adaptive antioxidant response in healthy tissue. This review describes the studies using ozone therapy to prevent and/or treat chemotherapy-induced toxicity, and how its effect is linked to a modification of free radicals and antioxidants. (2) Methods: This review encompasses a total of 13 peer-reviewed original articles (most of them with assessment of oxidative stress parameters) and some related works. It is mainly focused on four drugs: Cisplatin, Methotrexate, Doxorubicin, and Bleomycin. (3) Results: In experimental models and the few existing clinical studies, modulation of free radicals and antioxidants by ozone therapy was associated with decreased chemotherapy-induced toxicity. (4) Conclusions: The potential role of ozone therapy in the management of chemotherapy-induced toxicity merits further research. Randomized controlled trials are ongoing.
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