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Slika H, Mansour H, Nasser SA, Shaito A, Kobeissy F, Orekhov AN, Pintus G, Eid AH. Epac as a tractable therapeutic target. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 945:175645. [PMID: 36894048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175645] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
In 1957, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was identified as the first secondary messenger, and the first signaling cascade discovered was the cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA) pathway. Since then, cAMP has received increasing attention given its multitude of actions. Not long ago, a new cAMP effector named exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) emerged as a critical mediator of cAMP's actions. Epac mediates a plethora of pathophysiologic processes and contributes to the pathogenesis of several diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung fibrosis, neurological disorders, and others. These findings strongly underscore the potential of Epac as a tractable therapeutic target. In this context, Epac modulators seem to possess unique characteristics and advantages and hold the promise of providing more efficacious treatments for a wide array of diseases. This paper provides an in-depth dissection and analysis of Epac structure, distribution, subcellular compartmentalization, and signaling mechanisms. We elaborate on how these characteristics can be utilized to design specific, efficient, and safe Epac agonists and antagonists that can be incorporated into future pharmacotherapeutics. In addition, we provide a detailed portfolio for specific Epac modulators highlighting their discovery, advantages, potential concerns, and utilization in the context of clinical disease entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Slika
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon.
| | - Hadi Mansour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon.
| | | | - Abdullah Shaito
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, P.O. Box: 2713, Qatar.
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Department of Neurobiology and Neuroscience, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Alexander N Orekhov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, Moscow, 117418, Russia; Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiiskaya Street, Moscow, 125315, Russia; Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Skolkovo Innovative Center, Osennyaya Street 4-1-207, Moscow, 121609, Russia.
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, P.O. Box 2713, Qatar.
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2
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Wu Y, Berisha A, Borniger JC. Neuropeptides in Cancer: Friend and Foe? Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 6:e2200111. [PMID: 35775608 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are small regulatory molecules found throughout the body, most notably in the nervous, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. They serve as neurotransmitters or hormones in the regulation of diverse physiological processes. Cancer cells escape normal growth control mechanisms by altering their expression of growth factors, receptors, or intracellular signals, and neuropeptides have recently been recognized as mitogens in cancer growth and development. Many neuropeptides and their receptors exist in multiple subtypes, coupling with different downstream signaling pathways and playing distinct roles in cancer progression. The consideration of neuropeptide/receptor systems as anticancer targets is already leading to new biological and diagnostic knowledge that has the potential to enhance the understanding and treatment of cancer. In this review, recent discoveries regarding neuropeptides in a wide range of cancers, emphasizing their mechanisms of action, signaling cascades, regulation, and therapeutic potential, are discussed. Current technologies used to manipulate and analyze neuropeptides/receptors are described. Applications of neuropeptide analogs and their receptor inhibitors in translational studies and radio-oncology are rapidly increasing, and the possibility for their integration into therapeutic trials and clinical treatment appears promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wu
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Rd, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Adrian Berisha
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Rd, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Jeremy C Borniger
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Rd, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
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3
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Fu Y, Liu S, Rodrigues RM, Han Y, Guo C, Zhu Z, He Y, Mackowiak B, Feng D, Gao B, Zeng S, Shen H. Activation of VIPR1 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating arginine and pyrimidine metabolism. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:4341-4356. [PMID: 35864952 PMCID: PMC9295067 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.71134] [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: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide type-I receptor (VIPR1) overexpression has been reported in numerous types of malignancies and utilized to develop novel target therapeutics and radiolabeled VIP analogue-based tumor imaging technology, but its role in liver carcinogenesis has not been explored. In the current study, we investigated the role of the VIP/VIPR1 signaling in controlling hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Approach and results: By analyzing clinical samples, we found the expression level of VIPR1 was downregulated in human HCC tissues, which was correlated with advanced clinical stages, tumor growth, recurrence, and poor outcomes of HCC clinically. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed that activation of VIPR1 by VIP markedly inhibited HCC growth and metastasis. Intriguingly, transcriptome sequencing analyses revealed that activation of VIPR1 by VIP regulated arginine biosynthesis. Mechanistical studies in cultured HCC cells demonstrated that VIP treatment partially restored the expression of arginine anabolic key enzyme argininosuccinate synthase (ASS1), and to some extent, inhibited de novo pyrimidine synthetic pathway by downregulating the activation of CAD (carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase). VIP treatment upregulated ASS1 and subsequently suppressed CAD phosphorylation in an mTOR/p70S6K signaling dependent manner. Clinically, we found human HCC samples were associated with downregulation of ASS1 but upregulation of CAD phosphorylation, and that VIPR1 levels positively correlated with ASS1 levels and serum levels of urea, the end product of the urea cycle and arginine metabolism in HCC. Conclusions: Loss of VIPR1 expression in HCC facilitates CAD phosphorylation and tumor progression, and restoration of VIPR1 and treatment with the VIPR1 agonist may be a promising approach for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaojie Fu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Robim M Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Cao Guo
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Zhanwei Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yong He
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bryan Mackowiak
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Dechun Feng
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
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4
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Ahmed MB, Alghamdi AAA, Islam SU, Lee JS, Lee YS. cAMP Signaling in Cancer: A PKA-CREB and EPAC-Centric Approach. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132020. [PMID: 35805104 PMCID: PMC9266045 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common causes of death globally. Despite extensive research and considerable advances in cancer therapy, the fundamentals of the disease remain unclear. Understanding the key signaling mechanisms that cause cancer cell malignancy may help to uncover new pharmaco-targets. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) regulates various biological functions, including those in malignant cells. Understanding intracellular second messenger pathways is crucial for identifying downstream proteins involved in cancer growth and development. cAMP regulates cell signaling and a variety of physiological and pathological activities. There may be an impact on gene transcription from protein kinase A (PKA) as well as its downstream effectors, such as cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). The position of CREB downstream of numerous growth signaling pathways implies its oncogenic potential in tumor cells. Tumor growth is associated with increased CREB expression and activation. PKA can be used as both an onco-drug target and a biomarker to find, identify, and stage tumors. Exploring cAMP effectors and their downstream pathways in cancer has become easier using exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) modulators. This signaling system may inhibit or accelerate tumor growth depending on the tumor and its environment. As cAMP and its effectors are critical for cancer development, targeting them may be a useful cancer treatment strategy. Moreover, by reviewing the material from a distinct viewpoint, this review aims to give a knowledge of the impact of the cAMP signaling pathway and the related effectors on cancer incidence and development. These innovative insights seek to encourage the development of novel treatment techniques and new approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Bilal Ahmed
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
| | | | - Salman Ul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Cecos University, Peshawar, Street 1, Sector F 5 Phase 6 Hayatabad, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan;
| | - Joon-Seok Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Young-Sup Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (M.B.A.); (J.-S.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-950-6353; Fax: +82-53-943-2762
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5
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The Role of Neuropeptide-Stimulated cAMP-EPACs Signalling in Cancer Cells. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27010311. [PMID: 35011543 PMCID: PMC8746471 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are autocrine and paracrine signalling factors and mainly bind to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to trigger intracellular secondary messenger release including adenosine 3′, 5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP), thus modulating cancer progress in different kind of tumours. As one of the downstream effectors of cAMP, exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (EPACs) play dual roles in cancer proliferation and metastasis. More evidence about the relationship between neuropeptides and EPAC pathways have been proposed for their potential role in cancer development; hence, this review focuses on the role of neuropeptide/GPCR system modulation of cAMP/EPACs pathways in cancers. The correlated downstream pathways between neuropeptides and EPACs in cancer cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis is discussed to glimmer the direction of future research.
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6
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Costa PAC, Silva WN, Prazeres PHDM, Picoli CC, Guardia GDA, Costa AC, Oliveira MA, Guimarães PPG, Gonçalves R, Pinto MCX, Amorim JH, Azevedo VAC, Resende RR, Russo RC, Cunha TM, Galante PAF, Mintz A, Birbrair A. Chemogenetic modulation of sensory neurons reveals their regulating role in melanoma progression. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:183. [PMID: 34784974 PMCID: PMC8594104 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory neurons have recently emerged as components of the tumor microenvironment. Nevertheless, whether sensory neuronal activity is important for tumor progression remains unknown. Here we used Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by a Designer Drug (DREADD) technology to inhibit or activate sensory neurons' firing within the melanoma tumor. Melanoma growth and angiogenesis were accelerated following inhibition of sensory neurons' activity and were reduced following overstimulation of these neurons. Sensory neuron-specific overactivation also induced a boost in the immune surveillance by increasing tumor-infiltrating anti-tumor lymphocytes, while reducing immune-suppressor cells. In humans, a retrospective in silico analysis of melanoma biopsies revealed that increased expression of sensory neurons-related genes within melanoma was associated with improved survival. These findings suggest that sensory innervations regulate melanoma progression, indicating that manipulation of sensory neurons' activity may provide a valuable tool to improve melanoma patients' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro A. C. Costa
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Walison N. Silva
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Pedro H. D. M. Prazeres
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Caroline C. Picoli
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Gabriela D. A. Guardia
- grid.413471.40000 0000 9080 8521Centro de Oncologia Molecular, Hospital Sirio-Libanes, Sao Paulo, SP Brasil
| | - Alinne C. Costa
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Mariana A. Oliveira
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Bioquimica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Pedro P. G. Guimarães
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Ricardo Gonçalves
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Mauro C. X. Pinto
- grid.411195.90000 0001 2192 5801Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO Brasil
| | - Jaime H. Amorim
- grid.472638.c0000 0004 4685 7608Centro das Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia, Barreiras, BA Brasil
| | - Vasco A. C. Azevedo
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Genetica, Ecologia e Evolucao, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Rodrigo R. Resende
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Bioquimica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Remo C. Russo
- grid.8430.f0000 0001 2181 4888Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brasil
| | - Thiago M. Cunha
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brasil
| | - Pedro A. F. Galante
- grid.413471.40000 0000 9080 8521Centro de Oncologia Molecular, Hospital Sirio-Libanes, Sao Paulo, SP Brasil
| | - Akiva Mintz
- grid.239585.00000 0001 2285 2675Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY USA
| | - Alexander Birbrair
- Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil. .,Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Wehbe N, Slika H, Mesmar J, Nasser SA, Pintus G, Baydoun S, Badran A, Kobeissy F, Eid AH, Baydoun E. The Role of Epac in Cancer Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186489. [PMID: 32899451 PMCID: PMC7555121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer continues to be a prime contributor to global mortality. Despite tremendous research efforts and major advances in cancer therapy, much remains to be learned about the underlying molecular mechanisms of this debilitating disease. A better understanding of the key signaling events driving the malignant phenotype of cancer cells may help identify new pharmaco-targets. Cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) modulates a plethora of biological processes, including those that are characteristic of malignant cells. Over the years, most cAMP-mediated actions were attributed to the activity of its effector protein kinase A (PKA). However, studies have revealed an important role for the exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac) as another effector mediating the actions of cAMP. In cancer, Epac appears to have a dual role in regulating cellular processes that are essential for carcinogenesis. In addition, the development of Epac modulators offered new routes to further explore the role of this cAMP effector and its downstream pathways in cancer. In this review, the potentials of Epac as an attractive target in the fight against cancer are depicted. Additionally, the role of Epac in cancer progression, namely its effect on cancer cell proliferation, migration/metastasis, and apoptosis, with the possible interaction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in these phenomena, is discussed with emphasis on the underlying mechanisms and pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Wehbe
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (N.W.); (J.M.)
| | - Hasan Slika
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Joelle Mesmar
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (N.W.); (J.M.)
| | - Suzanne A. Nasser
- Department of Pharmacology, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020 Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272 Sharjah, UAE;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Serine Baydoun
- Department of Radiology, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Adnan Badran
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman 11196, Jordan;
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon;
| | - Ali H. Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon;
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon
- Correspondence: (A.H.E.); (E.B.); Tel.: +961-1-350-000 (ext. 4891) (A.H.E. & E.B.)
| | - Elias Baydoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236 Beirut, Lebanon; (N.W.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: (A.H.E.); (E.B.); Tel.: +961-1-350-000 (ext. 4891) (A.H.E. & E.B.)
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8
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Massimi M, Ragusa F, Cardarelli S, Giorgi M. Targeting Cyclic AMP Signalling in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121511. [PMID: 31775395 PMCID: PMC6952960 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major healthcare problem worldwide, representing one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. Since there are currently no predictive biomarkers for early stage diagnosis, HCC is detected only in advanced stages and most patients die within one year, as radical tumour resection is generally performed late during the disease. The development of alternative therapeutic approaches to HCC remains one of the most challenging areas of cancer. This review focuses on the relevance of cAMP signalling in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and identifies the modulation of this second messenger as a new strategy for the control of tumour growth. In addition, because the cAMP pathway is controlled by phosphodiesterases (PDEs), targeting these enzymes using PDE inhibitors is becoming an attractive and promising tool for the control of HCC. Among them, based on current preclinical and clinical findings, PDE4-specific inhibitors remarkably demonstrate therapeutic potential in the management of cancer outcomes, especially as adjuvants to standard therapies. However, more preclinical studies are warranted to ascertain their efficacy during the different stages of hepatocyte transformation and in the treatment of established HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Massimi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (M.G.); Tel.: +39-0862-433219 (M.M.); +39-06-49912308 (M.G.)
| | - Federica Ragusa
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Silvia Cardarelli
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Mauro Giorgi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (M.G.); Tel.: +39-0862-433219 (M.M.); +39-06-49912308 (M.G.)
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9
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Denes V, Geck P, Mester A, Gabriel R. Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide: 30 Years in Research Spotlight and 600 Million Years in Service. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8091488. [PMID: 31540472 PMCID: PMC6780647 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8091488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging from the depths of evolution, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptors (i.e., PAC1, VPAC1, VPAC2) are present in multicellular organisms from Tunicates to humans and govern a remarkable number of physiological processes. Consequently, the clinical relevance of PACAP systems spans a multifaceted palette that includes more than 40 disorders. We aimed to present the versatility of PACAP1-38 actions with a focus on three aspects: (1) when PACAP1-38 could be a cause of a malfunction, (2) when PACAP1-38 could be the cure for a malfunction, and (3) when PACAP1-38 could either improve or impair biology. PACAP1-38 is implicated in the pathophysiology of migraine and post-traumatic stress disorder whereas an outstanding protective potential has been established in ischemia and in Alzheimer’s disease. Lastly, PACAP receptors could mediate opposing effects both in cancers and in inflammation. In the light of the above, the duration and concentrations of PACAP agents must be carefully set at any application to avoid unwanted consequences. An enormous amount of data accumulated since its discovery (1989) and the first clinical trials are dated in 2017. Thus in the field of PACAP research: “this is not the end, not even the beginning of the end, but maybe the end of the beginning.”
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Denes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary.
| | - Peter Geck
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
| | - Adrienn Mester
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary.
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary.
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10
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Ramos-Alvarez I, Lee L, Jensen RT. Cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A and EPAC mediate VIP and secretin stimulation of PAK4 and activation of Na +,K +-ATPase in pancreatic acinar cells. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2019; 316:G263-G277. [PMID: 30520694 PMCID: PMC6397337 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00275.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Rat pancreatic acinar cells possess only the p21-activated kinase (PAKs), PAK4 of the group II PAK, and it is activated by gastrointestinal hormones/neurotransmitters stimulating PLC and by a number of growth factors. However, little is known generally of cAMP agents causing PAK4 activation, and there are no studies with gastrointestinal hormones/neurotransmitters activating cAMP cascades. In the present study, we examined the ability of VIP and secretin, which stimulate cAMP generation in pancreatic acini, to stimulate PAK4 activation, the signaling cascades involved, and their possible role in activating sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na+,K+-ATPase). PAK4 activation was compared with activation of the well-established cAMP target, cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB). Secretin-stimulated PAK4 activation was inhibited by KT-5720 and PKA Type II inhibitor (PKI), protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitors, whereas VIP activation was inhibited by ESI-09 and HJC0197, exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) inhibitors. In contrast, both VIP/secretin-stimulated phosphorylation of CREB (pCREB) via EPAC activation; however, it was inhibited by the p44/42 inhibitor PD98059 and the p38 inhibitor SB202190. The specific EPAC agonist 8-CPT-2- O-Me-cAMP as well 8-Br-cAMP and forskolin stimulated PAK4 activation. Secretin/VIP activation of Na+,K+-ATPase, was inhibited by PAK4 inhibitors (PF-3758309, LCH-7749944). These results demonstrate PAK4 is activated in pancreatic acini by stimulation of both VIP-/secretin-preferring receptors, as is CREB. However, they differ in their signaling cascades. Furthermore, PAK4 activation is needed for Na+,K+ATPase activation, which mediates pancreatic fluid secretion. These results, coupled with recent studies reporting PAKs are involved in both pancreatitis/pancreatic cancer growth/enzyme secretion, show that PAK4, similar to PAK2, likely plays an important role in both pancreatic physiological/pathological responses. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Pancreatic acini possess only the group II p21-activated kinase, PAK4, which is activated by PLC-stimulating agents/growth factors and is important in enzyme-secretion/growth/pancreatitis. Little information exists on cAMP-activating agents stimulating group II PAKs. We studied ability/effect of cyclic AMP-stimulating agents [vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), secretin] on PAK4 activity in rat pancreatic-acini. Both VIP/secretin activated PAK4/CREB, but the cAMP signaling cascades differed for EPAC, MAPK, and PKA pathways. Both hormones require PAK4 activation to stimulate sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase activity. This study shows PAK4 plays an important role in VIP-/secretin-stimulated pancreatic fluid secretion and suggests it plays important roles in pancreatic acinar physiological/pathophysiological responses mediated by cAMP-activating agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ramos-Alvarez
- Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lingaku Lee
- Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - R. T. Jensen
- Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Hara M, Takeba Y, Iiri T, Ohta Y, Ootaki M, Watanabe M, Watanabe D, Koizumi S, Otsubo T, Matsumoto N. Vasoactive intestinal peptide increases apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting the cAMP/Bcl-xL pathway. Cancer Sci 2018; 110:235-244. [PMID: 30390393 PMCID: PMC6317926 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a modulator of inflammatory responses. VIP receptors are expressed in several tumor types, such as colorectal carcinoma. The study described herein was conducted to confirm the presence of VIP and its receptors (VPAC1 and VPAC2) in surgically resected hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and in the HCC cell line Huh7. The mechanism responsible for apoptosis of HCC cells was then examined because VIP treatment (10-10 M) significantly suppressed proliferation of Huh7 cells. In examining apoptosis-related proteins, we found caspase-3 to be significantly increased and Bcl-xL and cyclic AMP (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB) to be significantly decreased in Huh7 cells cultured with VIP. Furthermore, the CREB level and phosphorylation were reduced. These effects were reversed by the addition of VIP receptor antagonist or cAMP antagonist Rp-cAMPS. Pretreatment with cAMP analogue blocked the increased apoptosis, suggesting that VIP induces apoptosis via a PKA-independent signaling mechanism. Our data indicate that VIP prevents the progression of HCC by apoptosis through the cAMP/Bcl-xL pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Hara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yuko Takeba
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Taroh Iiri
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yuki Ohta
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Masanori Ootaki
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Minoru Watanabe
- Experimental Animals Institution, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Daiki Watanabe
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Koizumi
- Division of Gastroenterological Surgery, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Takehito Otsubo
- Division of Gastroenterological Surgery, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Naoki Matsumoto
- Department of Pharmacology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
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Robichaux WG, Cheng X. Intracellular cAMP Sensor EPAC: Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutics Development. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:919-1053. [PMID: 29537337 PMCID: PMC6050347 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00025.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on one family of the known cAMP receptors, the exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (EPACs), also known as the cAMP-regulated guanine nucleotide exchange factors (cAMP-GEFs). Although EPAC proteins are fairly new additions to the growing list of cAMP effectors, and relatively "young" in the cAMP discovery timeline, the significance of an EPAC presence in different cell systems is extraordinary. The study of EPACs has considerably expanded the diversity and adaptive nature of cAMP signaling associated with numerous physiological and pathophysiological responses. This review comprehensively covers EPAC protein functions at the molecular, cellular, physiological, and pathophysiological levels; and in turn, the applications of employing EPAC-based biosensors as detection tools for dissecting cAMP signaling and the implications for targeting EPAC proteins for therapeutic development are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Robichaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center , Houston, Texas
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center , Houston, Texas
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Erin N, İpekçi T, Akkaya B, Özbudak İH, Baykara M. Neuropeptide Levels as well as Neprilysin Activity Decrease in Renal Cell Carcinoma. CANCER MICROENVIRONMENT 2016; 9:141-147. [PMID: 27761799 DOI: 10.1007/s12307-016-0189-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide (CGRP), Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) and Substance P (SP) are sensory neuropeptides which may alter cancer growth through modulation of chronic inflammation. We recently reported that SP suppresses breast cancer growth and metastasis through neuroimmune modulation. These neuropeptides are hydrolyzed by Neprilysin (NEP) to bioactive fragments. Decreased activity of NEP was reported in clear cell and chromophobe type renal cell carcinoma (RCC). It is however not known how the levels of neuropeptides hydrolyzed with NEP changes in RCC. Decrease activity of SP and CGRP containing sensory nerve endings was previously reported to increase cancer metastasis in animal models. It is however not known how peptidergic nerve endings are altered in RCC. Hence we here evaluated the levels of neuronal and non-neuronal neuropeptides and NEP activity in RCC including papillary type as well as neighboring uninvolved kidney. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 57 patients undergoing radical nephrectomy and diagnosed with RCC. NEP activity, levels and expression were determined using flourogenic substrate, western blot and qPCR respectively in freshly-frozen tissues. Immunohistochemical analyses were also performed. Neuronal and non-neuronal levels of CGRP, SP and VIP levels were determined using two-step acetic acid extraction. Levels and activity of NEP were markedly decreased in RCC regardless of subtype. Similar levels of VIP were detected in first and second extractions. VIP levels were higher in clear cell and papillary RCC compared to nearby kidney tissue. VIP levels of neighboring kidney tissue of papillary type RCC was significantly lower compared to kidney samples from clear cell RCC. CGRP levels were higher in second extraction. Similar to VIP levels, CGRP levels of neighboring kidney tissue from clear cell and chromophobe type RCC was significantly lower compared to corresponding tumor samples, an effect observed in the second extraction. VIP and CGRP levels of nearby kidney tissue varied subtype dependently demonstrating that different subtypes of RCC alter their local environment differently. Furthermore NEP-induce hydrolysis of VIP creates selective VPAC-1 receptor agonist which has anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Hence loss of NEP activity may prevent anti-tumoral effects of VIP on RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuray Erin
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Tümay İpekçi
- School of Medicine, Urology and Pathology Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Bahar Akkaya
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - İrem Hicran Özbudak
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Baykara
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Blanco‐Míguez A, Gutiérrez‐Jácome A, Pérez‐Pérez M, Pérez‐Rodríguez G, Catalán‐García S, Fdez‐Riverola F, Lourenço A, Sánchez B. From amino acid sequence to bioactivity: The biomedical potential of antitumor peptides. Protein Sci 2016; 25:1084-95. [PMID: 27010507 PMCID: PMC4941772 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Chemoprevention is the use of natural and/or synthetic substances to block, reverse, or retard the process of carcinogenesis. In this field, the use of antitumor peptides is of interest as, (i) these molecules are small in size, (ii) they show good cell diffusion and permeability, (iii) they affect one or more specific molecular pathways involved in carcinogenesis, and (iv) they are not usually genotoxic. We have checked the Web of Science Database (23/11/2015) in order to collect papers reporting on bioactive peptide (1691 registers), which was further filtered searching terms such as "antiproliferative," "antitumoral," or "apoptosis" among others. Works reporting the amino acid sequence of an antiproliferative peptide were kept (60 registers), and this was complemented with the peptides included in CancerPPD, an extensive resource for antiproliferative peptides and proteins. Peptides were grouped according to one of the following mechanism of action: inhibition of cell migration, inhibition of tumor angiogenesis, antioxidative mechanisms, inhibition of gene transcription/cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, disorganization of tubulin structure, cytotoxicity, or unknown mechanisms. The main mechanisms of action of those antiproliferative peptides with known amino acid sequences are presented and finally, their potential clinical usefulness and future challenges on their application is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Blanco‐Míguez
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
| | - Alberto Gutiérrez‐Jácome
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
| | - Martín Pérez‐Pérez
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
| | - Gael Pérez‐Rodríguez
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
| | - Sandra Catalán‐García
- Asturias, INDRA Software LabsC/Jimena Fernández De La Vega, 140 P. Científico Tecnológico, EdGijón33203Spain
| | - Florentino Fdez‐Riverola
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
| | - Anália Lourenço
- ESEI ‐ Escuela Superior De Ingeniería Informática, Edificio Politécnico, Campus Universitario as Lagoas S/N, Universidad De VigoOurense32004Spain
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of MinhoCampus De GualtarBraga4710‐057Portugal
| | - Borja Sánchez
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry of Dairy ProductsInstituto De Productos Lácteos De Asturias (IPLA), Consejo Superior De Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)VillaviciosaAsturiasSpain
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Moody TW, Nuche-Berenguer B, Jensen RT. Vasoactive intestinal peptide/pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide, and their receptors and cancer. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2016; 23:38-47. [PMID: 26702849 PMCID: PMC4844466 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize the roles of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)/pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and their receptors (VPAC1, VPAC2, PAC1) in human tumors as well as their role in potential novel treatments. RECENT FINDINGS Considerable progress has been made in understanding of the effects of VIP/PACAP on growth of various tumors as well as in the signaling cascades involved, especially in the role of transactivation of the epidermal growth factor family. The overexpression of VPAC1/2 and PAC1 on a number of common neoplasms (breast, lung, prostate, central nervous system and neuroblastoma) is receiving increased attention both as a means of tumor imaging the location and extent of these tumors, as well as for targeted directed treatment, by coupling cytotoxic agents to VIP/PACAP analogues. SUMMARY VIP/PACAP has prominent growth effects on a number of common neoplasms, which frequently overexpressed the three subtypes of their receptors. The increased understanding of their signaling cascades, effect on tumor growth/differentiation and the use of the overexpression of these receptors for localization/targeted cytotoxic delivery are all suggesting possible novel tumor treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry W Moody
- aDepartment of Health and Human Services, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Office of the Director bNational Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease, Digestive Diseases Branch, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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16
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Almahariq M, Mei FC, Cheng X. The pleiotropic role of exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1) in cancer: implications for therapeutic intervention. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:75-81. [PMID: 26525949 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmv115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The pleiotropic second messenger adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) regulates a myriad of biological processes under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1) mediates the intracellular functions of cAMP by acting as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for the Ras-like Rap small GTPases. Recent studies suggest that EPAC1 plays important roles in immunomodulation, cancer cell migration/metastasis, and metabolism. These results, coupled with the successful development of EPAC-specific small molecule inhibitors, identify EPAC1 as a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muayad Almahariq
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Fang C Mei
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Texas Therapeutics Institute, Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, Texas Therapeutics Institute, Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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17
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Tamas A, Javorhazy A, Reglodi D, Sarlos DP, Banyai D, Semjen D, Nemeth J, Lelesz B, Fulop DB, Szanto Z. Examination of PACAP-Like Immunoreactivity in Urogenital Tumor Samples. J Mol Neurosci 2015; 59:177-83. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-015-0652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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18
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Tessema SK, Kassa M, Kebede A, Mohammed H, Leta GT, Woyessa A, Guma GT, Petros B. Declining trend of Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) and dihydropteroate synthase (dhps) mutant alleles after the withdrawal of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine in North Western Ethiopia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126943. [PMID: 26431464 PMCID: PMC4591967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimalarial drug resistance is one of the major challenges in global efforts of malaria control and elimination. In 1998, chloroquine was abandoned and replaced with sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, which in turn was replaced with artemether/lumefantrine for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in 2004. Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine resistance is associated with mutations in dihydrofolate reductase (Pfdhfr) and dihydropteroate synthase (Pfdhps) genes. The prevalence of mutation in Pfdhfr and Pfdhps genes were evaluated and compared for a total of 159 isolates collected in two different time points, 2005 and 2007/08, from Pawe hospital, in North Western Ethiopia. The frequency of triple Pfdhfr mutation decreased significantly from 50.8% (32/63) to 15.9% (10/63) (P<0.001), while Pfdhps double mutation remained high and changed only marginally from 69.2% (45/65) to 55.4% (40/65) (P = 0.08). The combined Pfdhfr/Pfdhps quintuple mutation, which is strongly associated with sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine resistance, was significantly decreased from 40.7% (24/59) to 13.6% (8/59) (P<0.0001). On the whole, significant decline in mutant alleles and re-emergence of wild type alleles were observed. The change in the frequency is explained by the reduction of residual drug-resistant parasites caused by the strong drug pressure imposed when sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine was the first-line drug, followed by lower fitness of these resistant parasites in the absence of drug pressure. Despite the decrease in the frequency of mutant alleles, higher percentages of mutation remain prevalent in the study area in 2007/08 in both Pfdhfr and Pfdhps genes. Therefore, further multi-centered studies in different parts of the country will be required to assess the re-emergence of sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine sensitive parasites and to monitor and prevent the establishment of multi drug resistant parasites in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofonias K. Tessema
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Moges Kassa
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Amha Kebede
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Adugna Woyessa
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Beyene Petros
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Vacas E, Muñoz-Moreno L, Fernández-Martínez AB, Bajo AM, Sánchez-Chapado M, Prieto JC, Carmena MJ. Signalling pathways involved in antitumoral effects of VIP in human renal cell carcinoma A498 cells: VIP induction of p53 expression. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 53:295-301. [PMID: 24905957 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) decreases cell proliferation through PI3K signalling and prevents tumour progression in clear renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Here we analyzed the signalling pathways that mediate such VIP effects by using human RCC A498 cells. The effects of treatment with 1 μM VIP and/or specific protein kinase inhibitors such as H89, Wortmannin and PD98059 were studied by cell adhesion assay, ELISA of VEGF165 and ROS production assays. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and western blot were performed to study p53 expression. VIP increased cell adhesion and ROS production, and decreased VEGF165 secretion through PI3K signalling. Moreover, VIP increased nuclear expression of tumour suppressor p53. VIP effects could be blocked by cell incubation with a specific p53 inhibitor, cyclin pifithrin-α hydrobromide (CPFT-αH). In conclusion, this study provides a p53-dependent mechanism by which VIP regulates cell proliferation in RCC development. It supports a potential usefulness of VIP in new therapies of RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Vacas
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Laura Muñoz-Moreno
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Ana B Fernández-Martínez
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Ana M Bajo
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Manuel Sánchez-Chapado
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Social Sciences, Unit of Surgery, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; Department of Urology, Príncipe de Asturias Hospital, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Juan C Prieto
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain.
| | - María J Carmena
- Department of Systems Biology, Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Mezey G, Treszl A, Schally AV, Block NL, Vízkeleti L, Juhász A, Klekner Á, Nagy J, Balázs M, Halmos G, Bognár L. Prognosis in human glioblastoma based on expression of ligand growth hormone-releasing hormone, pituitary-type growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor, its splicing variant receptors, EGF receptor and PTEN genes. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2014; 140:1641-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-014-1716-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Vasoactive intestinal peptide maintains the nonpathogenic profile of human th17-polarized cells. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 54:512-25. [PMID: 24805298 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0318-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The cytokine microenvironment modulates CD4 T cell differentiation causing the shift of naïve CD4 T cells into different cell subsets. This process is also regulated by modulators such as vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), a neuropeptide with known immunomodulatory properties on CD4 T cells that exert this action through specific receptors, vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor (VPAC)1 and VPAC2. Our results show that the pattern of VIP receptors expression ratio is modified during Th17 differentiation. In this report, we evaluate the capacity of VIP to modulate naïve human cells into Th17 cells in vitro by analyzing their functional phenotype. The presence of VIP maintains the nonpathogenic profile of Th17-polarized cells, increases the proliferation rate, and decreases their Th1 potential. VIP induces the upregulation of the STAT3 gene interaction with the VPAC1 receptor during the onset of Th17 differentiation. Moreover, RAR-related orphan receptor C (RORC), RAR-related orphan receptor A (RORA), and interleukin (IL)-17A genes are upregulated in the presence of VIP through interaction with VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. Interestingly, VIP induces the expression of the IL-23R gene through interaction with the VPAC2 receptor during the expansion phase. This is the first report that describes the differentiation of naïve human T cells to Th17-polarized cells in the presence of VIP and demonstrates how this differentiation regulates the expression of the VIP receptors.
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Vacas E, Bajo AM, Schally AV, Sánchez-Chapado M, Prieto JC, Carmena MJ. Vasoactive intestinal peptide induces oxidative stress and suppresses metastatic potential in human clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 365:212-22. [PMID: 23123564 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms involved in progression of clear-cell renal-cell carcinomas (ccRCCs) are poorly understood. A common genetic mutation found in ccRCC is the loss of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene, which contributes to cancer progression and metastasis. We investigated VIP effects on metastatic and angiogenic factors in human VHL-null A498 ccRCC and HK2 renal cells. VIP increased adhesion but decreased expression of metalloproteinases, MMP2 and MMP9, as well as cell migration and VEGF expression and secretion in A498 but not in HK2 cells. VIP enhanced ROS levels and decreased nuclear levels of β-catenin and NFκB p50-subunit in A498 cells, suggesting neuropeptide involvement in the observed decrease of metastatic ability in clear-cell carcinoma. VIP effects in A498 cells were blocked by the VPAC(1/2)-receptor antagonist JV-1-53. In conclusion, present data point to a role of VIP in preventing invasion and metastasis in ccRCCs and support its potential therapeutic usefulness in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Vacas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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Vacas E, Bajo AM, Schally AV, Sánchez-Chapado M, Prieto JC, Carmena MJ. Antioxidant activity of vasoactive intestinal peptide in HK2 human renal cells. Peptides 2012; 38:275-81. [PMID: 23000305 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a major mediator of tissue and cell injuries. The injury in chronic nephrotic syndrome, acute renal failure, myeloma kidney injury and other kidney diseases is initiated by oxidative stress. We have previously demonstrated that vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) acts as an antiproliferative agent in renal cancer cells. This study was designed to evaluate the renoprotective activity of VIP against H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative damage in a proximal tubule kidney cell line (human, non-tumor, HK2 cells) in order to investigate the potential usefulness of this peptide in the treatment of oxidative-stress related kidney diseases. HK2 cell viability was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Propidium iodide was used to identify cells undergoing apoptosis. Western blotting was performed with anti-Bcl-2, anti-Bax and anti-formyl peptide receptor (low-affinity variant FPRL-1) monoclonal antibodies whereas 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate was used for measurement of levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). HK2 cells were injured with H(2)O(2) in order to induce apoptosis: the effect was time- and dose-dependent. VIP increased the levels of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 and decreased those of the proapoptotic protein Bax. VIP decreased the intracellular ROS levels reached by H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative stress. VIP effect on ROS levels involved FPLR-1 but not VPAC(1,2) receptors as evidenced by the use of the respective antagonists WRW4 and JV-1-53. Thus, VIP protects HK2 cells from apoptosis by increasing Bcl-2 levels and this effect is initiated through FPLR1 receptor. In conclusion, VIP might exert a renoprotective effect by the suppression of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Vacas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Alcalá, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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