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Kafka A, Pećina-Šlaus N, Drmić D, Bukovac A, Njirić N, Žarković K, Jakovčević A. SFRP4 protein expression is reduced in high grade astrocytomas which is not caused by the methylation of its promoter. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1398872. [PMID: 38993819 PMCID: PMC11236799 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1398872] [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: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Epigenetics play a vital role in stratifying CNS tumors and gliomas. The importance of studying Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) in gliomas is to improve diffuse glioma methylation profiling. Here we examined the methylation status of SFRP4 promoter and the level of its protein expression in diffuse gliomas WHO grades 2-4. Methods SFRP4 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and evaluated semi-quantitatively. In the tumor hot-spot area, the intensity of protein expression in 200 cells was determined using ImageJ (National Institutes of Health, United States). The assessment of immunopositivity was based on the IRS score (Immunoreactivity Score). Promoter methylation was examined by methylation specific-PCR (MSP) in fifty-one diffuse glioma samples and appropriate controls. Isolated DNA was treated with bisulfite conversion and afterwards used for MSP. Public databases (cBioPortal, COSMIC and LOVD) were searched to corroborate the results. Results and discussion SFRP4 protein expression in glioblastomas was very weak or non-existent in 86.7% of samples, moderate in 13.3%, while strong expression was not observed. The increase in astrocytoma grade resulted in SFRP4 protein decrease (p = 0.008), indicating the loss of its antagonistic role in Wnt signaling. Promoter methylation of SFRP4 gene was found in 16.3% of cases. Astrocytomas grade 2 had significantly more methylated cases compared to grade 3 astrocytomas (p = 0.004) and glioblastomas (p < 0.001), which may indicate temporal niche of methylation in grade 2. Furthermore, the expression levels of SFRP4 were high in samples with methylated SFRP4 promoter and low or missing in unmethylated cases (Pearson's R = -0.413; p = 0.003). We also investigated the association of SFRP4 changes to key Wnt regulators GSK3β and DKK3 and established a positive correlation between methylations of SFRP4 and GSK3β (Pearson's R = 0.323; p = 0.03). Furthermore, SFRP4 expression was correlated to unmethylated DKK3 (Chi square = 7.254; p = 0.027) indication that Wnt signaling antagonist is associated to negative regulator's demethylation. Conclusion The study contributes to the recognition of the significance of epigenetic changes in diffuse glioma indicating that restoring SFRP4 protein holds potential as therapeutic avenue. Reduced expression of SFRP4 in glioblastomas, not following promoter methylation pattern, suggests another mechanism, possible global methylation, that turns off SFRP4 expression in higher grades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Kafka
- Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nives Pećina-Šlaus
- Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Denis Drmić
- Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anja Bukovac
- Laboratory of Neuro-oncology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Niko Njirić
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Center “Zagreb”, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kamelija Žarković
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Division of Pathology, University Hospital Center “Zagreb”, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Antonia Jakovčević
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Division of Pathology, University Hospital Center “Zagreb”, Zagreb, Croatia
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2
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Akanyibah FA, Zhu Y, Wan A, Ocansey DKW, Xia Y, Fang AN, Mao F. Effects of DNA methylation and its application in inflammatory bowel disease (Review). Int J Mol Med 2024; 53:55. [PMID: 38695222 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is marked by persistent inflammation, and its development and progression are linked to environmental, genetic, immune system and gut microbial factors. DNA methylation (DNAm), as one of the protein modifications, is a crucial epigenetic process used by cells to control gene transcription. DNAm is one of the most common areas that has drawn increasing attention recently, with studies revealing that the interleukin (IL)‑23/IL‑12, wingless‑related integration site, IL‑6‑associated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 and apoptosis signaling pathways are involved in DNAm and in the pathogenesis of IBD. It has emerged that DNAm‑associated genes are involved in perpetuating the persistent inflammation that characterizes a number of diseases, including IBD, providing a novel therapeutic strategy for exploring their treatment. The present review discusses DNAm‑associated genes in the pathogenesis of IBD and summarizes their application as possible diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers in IBD. This may provide a reference for the particular form of IBD and its related methylation genes, aiding in clinical decision‑making and encouraging therapeutic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Atim Akanyibah
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lianyungang Clinical College, Jiangsu University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222006, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zhu
- The People's Hospital of Danyang, Affiliated Danyang Hospital of Nantong University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212300, P.R. China
| | - Aijun Wan
- Zhenjiang College, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212028, P.R. China
| | - Dickson Kofi Wiredu Ocansey
- Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - Yuxuan Xia
- Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, P.R. China
| | - An-Ning Fang
- Basic Medical School, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, Anhui 230061, P.R. China
| | - Fei Mao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lianyungang Clinical College, Jiangsu University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222006, P.R. China
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Lee AV, Nestler KA, Chiappinelli KB. Therapeutic targeting of DNA methylation alterations in cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108640. [PMID: 38570075 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a critical component of gene regulation and plays an important role in the development of cancer. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes and silencing of DNA repair pathways facilitate uncontrolled cell growth and synergize with oncogenic mutations to perpetuate cancer phenotypes. Additionally, aberrant DNA methylation hinders immune responses crucial for antitumor immunity. Thus, inhibiting dysregulated DNA methylation is a promising cancer therapy. Pharmacologic inhibition of DNA methylation reactivates silenced tumor suppressors and bolster immune responses through induction of viral mimicry. Now, with the advent of immunotherapies and discovery of the immune-modulatory effects of DNA methylation inhibitors, there is great interest in understanding how targeting DNA methylation in combination with other therapies can enhance antitumor immunity. Here, we describe the role of aberrant DNA methylation in cancer and mechanisms by which it promotes tumorigenesis and modulates immune responses. Finally, we review the initial discoveries and ongoing efforts to target DNA methylation as a cancer therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kevin A Nestler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katherine B Chiappinelli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Fu M, Deng F, Chen J, Fu L, Lei J, Xu T, Chen Y, Zhou J, Gao Q, Ding H. Current data and future perspectives on DNA methylation in ovarian cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:62. [PMID: 38757340 PMCID: PMC11095605 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5650] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) represents the most prevalent malignancy of the female reproductive system. Its distinguishing features include a high aggressiveness, substantial morbidity and mortality, and a lack of apparent symptoms, which collectively pose significant challenges for early detection. Given that aberrant DNA methylation events leading to altered gene expression are characteristic of numerous tumor types, there has been extensive research into epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation, in human cancers. In the context of OC, DNA methylation is often associated with the regulation of critical genes, such as BRCA1/2 and Ras‑association domain family 1A. Methylation modifications within the promoter regions of these genes not only contribute to the pathogenesis of OC, but also induce medication resistance and influence the prognosis of patients with OC. As such, a more in‑depth understanding of DNA methylation underpinning carcinogenesis could potentially facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for this intricate disease. The present review focuses on classical tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, signaling pathways and associated microRNAs in an aim to elucidate the influence of DNA methylation on the development and progression of OC. The advantages and limitations of employing DNA methylation in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of OC are also discussed. On the whole, the present literature review indicates that the DNA methylation of specific genes could potentially serve as a prognostic biomarker for OC and a therapeutic target for personalized treatment strategies. Further investigations in this field may yield more efficacious diagnostic and therapeutic alternatives for patients with OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Fu
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Fengying Deng
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Jie Chen
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Li Fu
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui Lei
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Ting Xu
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215100, P.R. China
| | - Youguo Chen
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Jinhua Zhou
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Qinqin Gao
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Hongmei Ding
- Institute for Fetology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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Ganesan S, Dharmarajan A, Sudhir G, Perumalsamy LR. Unravelling the Road to Recovery: Mechanisms of Wnt Signalling in Spinal Cord Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1. [PMID: 38421469 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex neurodegenerative pathology that consistently harbours a poor prognostic outcome. At present, there are few therapeutic strategies that can halt neuronal cell death and facilitate functional motor recovery. However, recent studies have highlighted the Wnt pathway as a key promoter of axon regeneration following central nervous system (CNS) injuries. Emerging evidence also suggests that the temporal dysregulation of Wnt may drive cell death post-SCI. A major challenge in SCI treatment resides in developing therapeutics that can effectively target inflammation and facilitate glial scar repair. Before Wnt signalling is exploited for SCI therapy, further research is needed to clarify the implications of Wnt on neuroinflammation during chronic stages of injury. In this review, an attempt is made to dissect the impact of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in relation to individual aspects of glial and fibrotic scar formation. Furthermore, it is also highlighted how modulating Wnt activity at chronic time points may aid in limiting lesion expansion and promoting axonal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchita Ganesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Clinical Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - G Sudhir
- Department of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
| | - Lakshmi R Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
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Zhang J, Shi L, Duan J, Li M, Li C. Proteomic detection of COX-2 pathway-related factors in patients with adenomyosis. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16784. [PMID: 38239300 PMCID: PMC10795527 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Investigating the relationship between cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) pathway-related factors and clinical features in patients with adenomyosis by proteomics could provide potential therapeutic targets. Methods This study recruited 40 patients undergoing surgical hysterectomy and pathological diagnosis of adenomyosis, collected ectopic endometrial specimens, and recorded clinical data. The expression levels of COX-2 in ectopic uterus lesions were detected using the immunohistochemical (IHC) SP method. The 40 samples were then divided into a COX-2 low or high expression group. Five samples with the most typical expression levels were selected from each of the two groups and the differential proteins between the two groups were identified using label-free quantitative proteomics. WW domain-binding protein 2 (WBP2), interferon induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3), and secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) were selected for further verification, and their relationships with COX-2 and clinical characteristics were analyzed. Results There were statistically significant differences in the expression of WBP2, IFITM3, and SFRP4 between the COX-2 low and high expression groups (P < 0.01). The expressions of COX-2, IFITM3, and SFRP4 were significantly correlated with dysmenorrhea between the two groups (P < 0.05), but not with uterine size or menstrual volume (P > 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between the expression of WBP2 and dysmenorrhea, uterine size, and menstruation volume in both the high expression and low expression groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions COX-2, IFITM3, SFRP4, and WBP2 may be involved in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. COX-2, IFITM3, and SFRP4 may serve as potential molecular biomarkers or therapeutic targets in dysmenorrhea in patients with early adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihua Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Luying Shi
- Department of Gynecology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jingya Duan
- Department of Gynecology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Minmin Li
- Department of Gynecology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Canyu Li
- Department of Gynecology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Li Q, Fan J, Zhou Z, Ma Z, Che Z, Wu Y, Yang X, Liang P, Li H. AID-induced CXCL12 upregulation enhances castration-resistant prostate cancer cell metastasis by stabilizing β-catenin expression. iScience 2023; 26:108523. [PMID: 38162032 PMCID: PMC10755053 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108523] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignant diseases of urinary system and has poor prognosis after progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and increased cytosine methylation heterogeneity is associated with the more aggressive phenotype of PCa cell line. Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is a multifunctional enzyme and contributes to antibody diversification. However, the dysregulation of AID participates in the progression of multiple diseases and related with certain oncogenes through demethylation. Nevertheless, the role of AID in PCa remains elusive. We observed a significant upregulation of AID expression in PCa samples, which exhibited a negative correlation with E-cadherin expression. Furthermore, AID expression is remarkably higher in CRPC cells than that in HSPC cells, and AID induced the demethylation of CXCL12, which is required to stabilize the Wnt signaling pathway executor β-catenin and EMT procedure. Our study suggests that AID drives CRPC metastasis by demethylation and can be a potential therapeutic target for CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- Department of Urology, TianYou Hospital affiliated to Wuhan University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jinfeng Fan
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Zhiyan Zhou
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Zhe Ma
- The First Hospital of Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhifei Che
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yaoxi Wu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Xiangli Yang
- Department of Urology, TianYou Hospital affiliated to Wuhan University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Peiyu Liang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Haoyong Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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Peri SS, Narayanaa Y K, Hubert TD, Rajaraman R, Arfuso F, Sundaram S, Archana B, Warrier S, Dharmarajan A, Perumalsamy LR. Navigating Tumour Microenvironment and Wnt Signalling Crosstalk: Implications for Advanced Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5847. [PMID: 38136392 PMCID: PMC10741643 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245847] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapeutics face significant challenges due to drug resistance and tumour recurrence. The tumour microenvironment (TME) is a crucial contributor and essential hallmark of cancer. It encompasses various components surrounding the tumour, including intercellular elements, immune system cells, the vascular system, stem cells, and extracellular matrices, all of which play critical roles in tumour progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, drug resistance, and relapse. These components interact with multiple signalling pathways, positively or negatively influencing cell growth. Abnormal regulation of the Wnt signalling pathway has been observed in tumorigenesis and contributes to tumour growth. A comprehensive understanding and characterisation of how different cells within the TME communicate through signalling pathways is vital. This review aims to explore the intricate and dynamic interactions, expressions, and alterations of TME components and the Wnt signalling pathway, offering valuable insights into the development of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shraddha Shravani Peri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Krithicaa Narayanaa Y
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Therese Deebiga Hubert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Roshini Rajaraman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Sandhya Sundaram
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - B. Archana
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.); (B.A.)
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India;
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia;
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Lakshmi R. Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600116, India; (S.S.P.); (K.N.Y.); (T.D.H.); (R.R.)
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Zhang W, Zhang K, Ma Y, Song Y, Qi T, Xiong G, Zhang Y, Kan C, Zhang J, Han F, Sun X. Secreted frizzled-related proteins: A promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy through Wnt signaling inhibition. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115344. [PMID: 37634472 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115344] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling system is a critical pathway that regulates embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) are extracellular inhibitors of Wnt signaling that act by binding directly to Wnt ligands or Frizzled receptors. SFRPs can act as anti-Wnt agents and suppress cancer growth by blocking the action of Wnt ligands. However, SFRPs are often silenced by promoter methylation in cancer cells, resulting in hyperactivation of the Wnt pathway. Epigenetic modifiers can reverse this silencing and restore SFRPs expression. Despite the potential of SFRPs as a therapeutic target, the effects of SFRPs on tumor development remain unclear. Therefore, a review of the expression of various members of the SFRPs family in different cancers and their potential as therapeutic targets is warranted. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of SFRPs in cancer, focusing on their expression patterns and their potential as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqiang Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yixin Song
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Tongbing Qi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Guoji Xiong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yuanzhu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Chengxia Kan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
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Zhou S, Ou H, Wu Y, Qi D, Pei X, Yu X, Hu X, Wu E. Targeting tumor endothelial cells with methyltransferase inhibitors: Mechanisms of action and the potential of combination therapy. Pharmacol Ther 2023:108434. [PMID: 37172786 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Tumor endothelial cells (TECs) reside in the inner lining of blood vessels and represent a promising target for targeted cancer therapy. DNA methylation is a chemical process that involves the transfer of a methyl group to a specific base in the DNA strand, catalyzed by DNA methyltransferase (DNMT). DNMT inhibitors (DNMTis) can inhibit the activity of DNMTs, thereby preventing the transfer of methyl groups from s-adenosyl methionine (SAM) to cytosine. Currently, the most viable therapy for TECs is the development of DNMTis to release cancer suppressor genes from their repressed state. In this review, we first outline the characteristics of TECs and describe the development of tumor blood vessels and TECs. Abnormal DNA methylation is closely linked to tumor initiation, progression, and cell carcinogenesis, as evidenced by numerous studies. Therefore, we summarize the role of DNA methylation and DNA methyltransferase and the therapeutic potential of four types of DNMTi in targeting TECs. Finally, we discuss the accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities associated with combination therapy with DNMTis for TECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biosensing, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Hailong Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Biosensing, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Yatao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biosensing, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Dan Qi
- Texas A & M University Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Xiaming Pei
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Xiaohui Yu
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biosensing, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Research Institute of Hunan University in Chongqing, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Erxi Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuroscience Institute, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, TX 78508, USA; Texas A & M University Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy, College Station, TX 77843, USA; LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes, Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, the University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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11
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Identification of a novel Immune-Related prognostic model for patients with colorectal cancer based on 3 subtypes. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152352. [PMID: 36827833 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2023.152352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism of immunity in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been studied in-depth, but knowledge of its role in the treatment of CRC is limited. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to classify CRC based on immunology and construct an immune-related prognostic model. METHODS Nine expression profile datasets of CRC, comprising 1640 samples, were downloaded from the NCBI GEO database. Immune infiltration of CRC was estimated using 5 algorithms. Based on the relative infiltration level of immune cells, immune score, and stromal score, immunosubtype analysis of tumors was conducted. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two subtypes were screened, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed. Hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and qPCR were used to verify the correlation between DEGs and differentiation degree of cancer and the expression of Ki67. Subsequently, a risk signature was constructed based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model. RESULTS Based on the infiltration level, immune score, and stromal score of each immune cell, CRC was divided into three immune cell subtypes. Most immune checkpoint genes showed highly significant differences among the three cell subtypes, and most of the co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules were lower in cluster 1 and the highest in cluster 3. Next, 50 common DEGs were determined from the intersections of the different subtypes. Among these common DEGs, 25 were identified to be relevant to the prognosis of CRC patients. The mRNA expressions of C5orf46, CYP1B1, MIR100HG, SFRP2 and CXCL13 was related to clinical prognostic indicators. Finally, these 5 DEGs were included in a prognostic risk signature model, which effectively identified high-risk groups among CRC patients in both the training and validation sets. CONCLUSION In this study, CRCs were divided into three subtypes based on immunology, and the different subtypes led to different prognosis. Additionally, a prognostic model was constructed based on five immune-related DEGs to distinguish the three subtypes.
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Effect of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 5 in Mice with Heart Failure. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:1606212. [PMID: 35685732 PMCID: PMC9173992 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1606212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Although some progress has been made in its treatment, heart failure is still one of the most important health problems that endanger public health. This study aims to explore the myocardial protective effect of secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) on mice with heart failure. The mouse model of heart failure was established by using the isoproterenol (ISO) hydrochloride gradient modeling method. The treatment group was injected with 0.02 mg/kg/24 h SFRP5 recombinant protein intraperitoneally 30 minutes after the injection of isoproterenol, and the ISO + phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) group was injected with the same amount of PBS. After intraperitoneal injection of SFRP5 recombinant protein in mice with heart failure, the inflammatory response was reduced, and the left ventricular systolic and diastolic function of heart failure mice and the pathological structure of the myocardial tissue were improved. Compared with the ISO group, the expression level of SFRP5 protein in the ISO + SFRP5 group was increased significantly, the expression levels of Wnt5a and JNK protein were decreased markedly, and the enzyme activities of SOD and GSH-Px in the serum were observably increased, but they were lower than those parameters in the normal group. The SFRP5 recombinant protein has a protective effect on isoproterenol-induced heart failure in mice. The mechanism of action may be related to inhibiting the Wnt5A/JNK signaling pathway and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. SFRP5 may be one of the therapeutic targets of heart failure.
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Feng D, Shi X, Zhang F, Xiong Q, Wei Q, Yang L. Mitochondria Dysfunction-Mediated Molecular Subtypes and Gene Prognostic Index for Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy or Radiotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:858479. [PMID: 35463369 PMCID: PMC9019359 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.858479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Given the age relevance of prostate cancer (PCa) and the role of mitochondrial dysfunction (MIDS) in aging, we orchestrated molecular subtypes and identified key genes for PCa from the perspective of MIDS. Methods Cluster analysis, COX regression analysis, function analysis, and tumor immune environment were conducted. We performed all analyses using software R 3.6.3 and its suitable packages. Results CXCL14, SFRP4, and CD38 were eventually identified to classify the PCa patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset into two distinct clusters. Patients in the cluster 2 had shorter BCR-free survival than those in the cluster 1 in terms of both TCGA database and GEO dataset. We divided the patients from the TCGA database and the GEO dataset into high- and low-risk groups according to the median of MIDS-related genetic prognostic index. For patients in the TCGA database, the biochemical recurrence (BCR) risk in high-risk group was 2.34 times higher than that in low-risk group. Similarly, for patients in the GEO dataset, the risk of BCR and metastasis in high-risk group was 2.35 and 3.04 times higher than that in low-risk group, respectively. Cluster 2 was closely associated with advanced T stage and higher Gleason score for patients undergoing radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy. For patients undergoing radical prostatectomy, the number of CD8+ T cells was significantly lower in cluster 2 than in cluster 1, while cluster 2 had significantly higher stromal score than cluster 1. For patients undergoing radical radiotherapy, cluster 2 had significantly higher level of CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, stromal score, immune score, and estimate score, but showed lower level of tumor purity than cluster 1. Conclusions We proposed distinctly prognosis-related molecular subtypes at genetic level and related formula for PCa patients undergoing radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy, mainly to provide a roadmap for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dechao Feng
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xu Shi
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Facai Zhang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiao Xiong
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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14
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Wnt antagonist as therapeutic targets in ovarian cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 145:106191. [PMID: 35272015 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2022.106191] [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: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a fatal malignancy in women with a low survival rate that demands new therapeutic paradigms. Cancer cells acquire various exclusive alterations to proliferate, invade, metastasize, and escape cell death, acting independently of growth-inducing or growth-inhibiting signals. The nature of cellular signaling in tumorigenesis is interwoven. Wnt signaling is an evolutionarily conserved signaling cascade that has been shown to regulate ovarian cancer pathogenesis. The molecular mechanism of Wnt signaling underlying the development of ovarian cancer, drug resistance, and relapse is not completely understood. Extracellularly secreted Wnt signaling inhibitors are crucial regulators of ovarian cancer tumorigenesis and malignant properties of cancer stem cells. Wnt inhibitors arbitrated modifications affecting Wnt pathway proteins on the cell membranes, in the cytoplasm, and in the nucleus have been shown to span essential contributions in the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer. Although many extrinsic inhibitors developed targeting the downstream components of the Wnt signaling pathway, investigating the molecular mechanisms of endogenous secreted inhibitors might substantiate prognostic or therapeutic biomarkers development. Given the importance of Wnt signaling in ovarian cancer, more systematic studies combined with clinical studies are requisite to probe the precise mechanistic interactions of Wnt antagonists in ovarian cancer. This review outlines the latest progress on the Wnt antagonists and ovarian cancer-specific regulators such as micro-RNAs, small molecules, and drugs regulating these Wnt antagonists in ovarian tumourigenesis.
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15
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Patidar V, Shah S, Kumar R, Singh PK, Singh SB, Khatri DK. A molecular insight of inflammatory cascades in rheumatoid arthritis and anti-arthritic potential of phytoconstituents. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 49:2375-2391. [PMID: 34817776 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06986-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an auto-immune inflammatory disorder of the synovial lining of joints marked by immune cells infiltration and hyperplasia of synovial fibroblasts which results in articular cartilage destruction and bone erosion. The current review will provide comprehensive information and results obtained from the recent research on the phytochemicals which were found to have potential anti-arthritic activity along with the molecular pathway that were targeted to control RA progression. In this review, we have summarized the scientific data from various animal studies about molecular mechanisms, possible side effects, associations with conventional therapies, and the role of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) for RA such as ayurvedic medicines in arthritis. In the case of RA, phytochemicals have been shown to act through different pathways such as regulation of inflammatory signaling pathways, T cell differentiation, inhibition of angiogenic factors, induction of the apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), inhibition of autophagic pathway by inhibiting High-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB-1), Akt/ mTOR pathway and HIF-1α mediated Vascular endothelial growth (VEGF) expression. Also, osteoclasts differentiation is inhibited by down-regulating the VEGF expression by decreasing the accumulation of the ARNT (Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Nuclear Translocator)-HIF-1α complex Although phytochemicals have shown to exert potential anti-arthritic activity in many animal models and further clinical data is needed to confirm their safety, efficacy, and interactions in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Patidar
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Shruti Shah
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Khatri
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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16
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Bai Z, Wu Q, Zhang C, Chen J, Cao L. Effects of YAP1 and SFRP2 overexpression on the biological behavior of colorectal cancer cells and their molecular mechanisms. J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 12:1601-1612. [PMID: 34532114 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-21-418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and has a high mortality rate. With the development of tumor molecular biology, more and more attention is being paid to the mechanisms of cell pathways in colorectal carcinogenesis, such as the Hippo/Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. The abnormal expression of YAP1 and β-catenin have been reported in CRC, and can lead to excessive cell proliferation, and eventually, tumor formation. Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2) levels have been found to be decreased in a variety of cancers, and SFRP2 is an antagonist that binds directly to Wnt signal. At present, the molecular basis of colorectal tumors is still not fully understood. In the present study, we sought to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying YAP1 and SFRP2 in the development of CRC. Methods We constructed CRC cell lines that stably overexpressed YAP1 and SFRP2 using lentivirus packaging and cell infection. The levels of expression of the proteins were evaluated by western blot and immunofluorescence assays. Protein complex immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) was used to detect the interaction between YAP1, SFRP2, and β-catenin. The functional roles of YAP1 and SFRP2 in CRC was determined by a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) proliferation assay and flow cytometric apoptosis assay. Results The data of the present study showed that the overexpression of SFRP2 promoted the expression of YAP1 and β-catenin protein, and the overexpression of YAP1 promoted the expression of β-catenin protein. YAP1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation, while SFRP2 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis. Conclusions Our findings showed that the expression of YAP1, SFRP2, and β-catenin is correlated in CRC cells. The Hippo pathway and Wnt pathway interact with each other in the pathogenesis of CRC, and YAP1 and SFRP2 are involved in the formation and development of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Bai
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qingqing Wu
- Department of Pathology, Fuyang Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fuyang Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Pathology, Fuyang Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
| | - Liyu Cao
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pathology, Fuyang Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
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Song Y, Pan S, Li K, Chen X, Wang ZP, Zhu X. Insight into the role of multiple signaling pathways in regulating cancer stem cells of gynecologic cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 85:219-233. [PMID: 34098106 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence has demonstrated that a myriad of developmental signaling pathways, such as the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog and Hippo, are frequently deregulated and play a critical role in regulating cancer stem cell (CSC) activity in human cancers, including gynecologic malignancies. In this review article, we describe an overview of various signaling pathways in human cancers. We further discuss the developmental roles how these pathways regulate CSCs from experimental evidences in gynecologic cancers. Moreover, we mention several compounds targeting CSCs in gynecologic cancers to enhance the treatment outcomes. Therefore, these signaling pathways might be the potential targets for developing targeted therapy in gynecologic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizuo Song
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuya Pan
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kehan Li
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Z Peter Wang
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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18
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Wu Q, Xu C, Zeng X, Zhang Z, Yang B, Rao Z. Tumor suppressor role of sFRP‑4 in hepatocellular carcinoma via the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:336. [PMID: 33760186 PMCID: PMC7974405 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.11975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor located in the liver. Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP-4) is associated with cancer occurrence, but the relationship between sFRP-4 and HCC is not completely understood. The present study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism underlying sFRP-4 in HCC. sFRP-4 mRNA expression levels were determined via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was performed to evaluate HCCLM3 and Huh7 cell viability. Moreover, HCCLM3 and Huh7 cell proliferation were assessed using the BrdU ELISA assay kit, and cell apoptosis was measured via flow cytometry. Western blotting was conducted to measure β-catenin and GSK-3β protein expression levels. The results demonstrated that sFRP-4 expression was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues and cells compared with adjacent healthy tissues and MIHA cells, respectively. Moreover, the results indicated that compared with the control group, sFRP-4 overexpression inhibited HCC cell viability and proliferation, and accelerated HCC cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the results suggested that sFRP-4 inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by upregulating GSK-3β expression and downregulating β-catenin expression, thus restraining the malignant behavior of HCC cells. In conclusion, the present study indicated that sFRP-4 served a tumor suppressor role in HCC cells by restraining the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxin Wu
- Cadre Ward Two, General Hospital of The Central Theater Command of The People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of The Central Theater Command of The People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Xianghua Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing 400021, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of The Central Theater Command of The People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of The Central Theater Command of The People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
| | - Zhiguo Rao
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of The Central Theater Command of The People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, P.R. China
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Pisano A, Griñan-Lison C, Farace C, Fiorito G, Fenu G, Jiménez G, Scognamillo F, Peña-Martin J, Naccarati A, Pröll J, Atzmüller S, Pardini B, Attene F, Ibba G, Solinas MG, Bernhard D, Marchal JA, Madeddu R. The Inhibitory Role of miR-486-5p on CSC Phenotype Has Diagnostic and Prognostic Potential in Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113432. [PMID: 33227890 PMCID: PMC7699298 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer worldwide and the second cause of cancer deaths. Increasing evidences supports the idea that the poor prognosis of patients is related to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), a cell population able to drive cancer recurrence and metastasis. The deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a role in the formation of CSC. We investigated the role of hsa-miR-486-5p (miR-486-5p) in CRC, CSCs, and metastasis, in order to reach a better understanding of the biomolecular and epigenetic mechanisms mir-486-5p-related. The expression of miR-486-5p was investigated in three different matrices from CRC patients and controls and in CSCs obtained from the CRC cell lines HCT-116, HT-29, and T-84. In the human study, miR-486-5p was up-regulated in serum and stool of CRC patients in comparison with healthy controls but down-regulated in tumor tissue when compared with normal mucosa. miR-486-5p was also down-regulated in the sera of metastatic patients. In vitro, miR-486-5p was down-regulated in CSC models and it induced an inhibitory effect on stem factors and oncogenes in the main pathways of CSCs. Our results provide a step forward in understanding the role of mir-486-5p in CRC and CSC, and suggest that further studies are needed to investigate its diagnostic and prognostic power, possibly in combination with other biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (C.G.-L.); (G.J.); (J.P.-M.)
| | - Carmen Griñan-Lison
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (C.G.-L.); (G.J.); (J.P.-M.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, Organization University Hospitals of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit Modeling Nature (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Cristiano Farace
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Fiorito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Grazia Fenu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Gema Jiménez
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (C.G.-L.); (G.J.); (J.P.-M.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, Organization University Hospitals of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit Modeling Nature (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Fabrizio Scognamillo
- O.U. of Surgery I (Surgical Pathology), A.O.U. Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (F.S.); (F.A.)
| | - Jesùs Peña-Martin
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (C.G.-L.); (G.J.); (J.P.-M.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, Organization University Hospitals of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit Modeling Nature (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Alessio Naccarati
- Molecular Epidemiology and Exposome Research Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, Candiolo, 10060 Torino, Italy; (A.N.); (B.P.)
- Molecular Epidemiology and Exposome Research Unit Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, 10060 Torino, Italy
| | - Johannes Pröll
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria;
- Center for Medical Research, Johannes Kepler University, 4040 Linz, Austria;
- Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Sabine Atzmüller
- Center for Medical Research, Johannes Kepler University, 4040 Linz, Austria;
| | - Barbara Pardini
- Molecular Epidemiology and Exposome Research Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, Candiolo, 10060 Torino, Italy; (A.N.); (B.P.)
- Molecular Epidemiology and Exposome Research Unit Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, 10060 Torino, Italy
| | - Federico Attene
- O.U. of Surgery I (Surgical Pathology), A.O.U. Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (F.S.); (F.A.)
| | - Gabriele Ibba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Maria Giuliana Solinas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
| | - David Bernhard
- Division of Pathophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University, 4040 Linz, Austria;
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (C.G.-L.); (G.J.); (J.P.-M.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs.GRANADA, Organization University Hospitals of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit Modeling Nature (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.M.); (R.M.); Tel.: +34-958249321 (J.A.M.); +39-079228569 (R.M.)
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.F.); (G.F.); (G.F.); (G.I.); (M.G.S.)
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (J.A.M.); (R.M.); Tel.: +34-958249321 (J.A.M.); +39-079228569 (R.M.)
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Zhuang J, Huo Q, Yang F, Xie N. Perspectives on the Role of Histone Modification in Breast Cancer Progression and the Advanced Technological Tools to Study Epigenetic Determinants of Metastasis. Front Genet 2020; 11:603552. [PMID: 33193750 PMCID: PMC7658393 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.603552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a complex process that involved in various genetic and epigenetic alterations during the progression of breast cancer. Recent evidences have indicated that the mutation in the genome sequence may not be the key factor for increasing metastatic potential. Epigenetic changes were revealed to be important for metastatic phenotypes transition with the development in understanding the epigenetic basis of breast cancer. Herein, we aim to present the potential epigenetic drivers that induce dysregulation of genes related to breast tumor growth and metastasis, with a particular focus on histone modification including histone acetylation and methylation. The pervasive role of major histone modification enzymes in cancer metastasis such as histone acetyltransferases (HAT), histone deacetylases (HDACs), DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), and so on are demonstrated and further discussed. In addition, we summarize the recent advances of next-generation sequencing technologies and microfluidic-based devices for enhancing the study of epigenomic landscapes of breast cancer. This feature also introduces several important biotechnologists for identifying robust epigenetic biomarkers and enabling the translation of epigenetic analyses to the clinic. In summary, a comprehensive understanding of epigenetic determinants in metastasis will offer new insights of breast cancer progression and can be achieved in the near future with the development of innovative epigenomic mapping tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialang Zhuang
- Biobank, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qin Huo
- Biobank, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Biobank, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ni Xie
- Biobank, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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21
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Liu Y, Yu J, Xie Y, Li M, Wang F, Zhang J, Qi J. EZH2 regulates sFRP4 expression without affecting the methylation of sFRP4 promoter DNA in colorectal cancer cell lines. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:33. [PMID: 32952624 PMCID: PMC7480130 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal activation of the Wnt signaling pathway is found in 90% of colorectal cancers (CRCs). Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) serves as an antagonist of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Epigenetic alterations, including changes in DNA methylation and histone methylation, may influence the expression of sFRP4. Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are epigenetic transcriptional repressors that selectively repress gene expression by forming polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs). Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the core component of PRC2, is a histone-lysine N-methyltransferase that interacts with DNA methyltransferases. In the present study, the promoter DNA methylation status of sFRP4 in CRC cell lines was analyzed and the underlying mechanisms of action governing this modification was investigated. Firstly, the DNA methylation status of the sFRP4 promoter in CRC cell lines was assessed using methylation-specific PCR. Subsequently, the mRNA and protein levels of sFRP4 were measured using real-time qPCR and western blot analysis, respectively, to determine whether the DNA methylation status of the sFRP4 promoter is correlated with its transcriptional levels. To screen for important epigenetic modifiers that may regulate the promoter DNA methylation status of sFRP4, the expression levels of PcG proteins were examined by gene array analysis. ChIP-qPCR was performed to test whether the selected PcG proteins directly bind the promoter region of sFRP4. Finally, the downregulated PcG proteins EZH2, chromobox 7 (CBX7) and jumonji and AT-rich interaction domain containing 2 (JARID2) were identified and their association with sFRP4 expression levels and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity were investigated. The present study revealed that sFRP4 was hypermethylated in the promoter region and downregulated during the progression of the CRC cell lines from Dukes A to Dukes C. Expression levels of PcG proteins EZH2, CBX7 and JARID2 were upregulated and positively associated with the aberrantly activated Wnt signaling pathway in the CRC cell lines. EZH2, CBX7 and JARID2 were all enriched in the sFRP4 promoter region in CRC cells. EZH2 downregulation did not affect the promoter DNA methylation status of sFRP4 but increased its expression levels and decreased CRC cell proliferation. DNA methylation controls the expression of sFRP4. EZH2 regulates sFRP4 expression without affecting the DNA hypermethylation of the sFRP4 promoter and influences CRC cell proliferation and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Liu
- Gastroenterology Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming, Shenzhen 518000, P.R. China
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Yang Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Mengying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, P.R. China
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