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Lei X, Li Z, Huang M, Huang L, Huang Y, Lv S, Zhang W, Chen Z, Ke Y, Li S, Chen J, Yang X, Deng Q, Liu J, Yu X. Gli1-mediated tumor cell-derived bFGF promotes tumor angiogenesis and pericyte coverage in non-small cell lung cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:83. [PMID: 38493151 PMCID: PMC10944600 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor angiogenesis inhibitors have been applied for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) therapy. However, the drug resistance hinders their further development. Intercellular crosstalk between lung cancer cells and vascular cells was crucial for anti-angiogenenic resistance (AAD). However, the understanding of this crosstalk is still rudimentary. Our previous study showed that Glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1) is a driver of NSCLC metastasis, but its role in lung cancer cell-vascular cell crosstalk remains unclear. METHODS Conditioned medium (CM) from Gli1-overexpressing or Gli1-knockdown NSCLC cells was used to educate endothelia cells and pericytes, and the effects of these media on angiogenesis and the maturation of new blood vessels were evaluated via wound healing assays, Transwell migration and invasion assays, tube formation assays and 3D coculture assays. The xenograft model was conducted to establish the effect of Gli1 on tumor angiogenesis and growth. Angiogenic antibody microarray analysis, ELISA, luciferase reporte, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), bFGF protein stability and ubiquitination assay were performed to explore how Gli1 regulate bFGF expression. RESULTS Gli1 overexpression in NSCLC cells enhanced the endothelial cell and pericyte motility required for angiogenesis required for angiogenesis. However, Gli1 knockout in NSCLC cells had opposite effect on this process. bFGF was critical for the enhancement effect on tumor angiogenesis. bFGF treatment reversed the Gli1 knockdown-mediated inhibition of angiogenesis. Mechanistically, Gli1 increased the bFGF protein level by promoting bFGF transcriptional activity and protein stability. Importantly, suppressing Gli1 with GANT-61 obviously inhibited angiogenesis. CONCLUSION The Gli1-bFGF axis is crucial for the crosstalk between lung cancer cells and vascular cells. Targeting Gli1 is a potential therapeutic approach for NSCLC angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueping Lei
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhan Li
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Manting Huang
- Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, 528400, PR, China
| | - Lijuan Huang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Huang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Sha Lv
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Weisong Zhang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuowen Chen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyu Ke
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Songpei Li
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingfei Chen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyu Yang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiudi Deng
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and Diseases, The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, PR, China.
| | - Junshan Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiyong Yu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences &The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China.
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Liu BW, Cao JL, Wang Y, Zhao X, Zeng Q, Liu WP, Zhang JH, Fan YZ, Dou J. GANT61, an inhibitor of Gli1, inhibits the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. J Investig Med 2024; 72:181-192. [PMID: 37724700 DOI: 10.1177/10815589231204056] [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] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Constitutive activation of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling has been implicated in many cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among them, the terminal glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli1) regulates the expression of critical genes in the Hh pathway. The current study aims to evaluate the anti-HCC effect of the Gli1 inhibitor, GANT61. In vitro analysis including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, flow cytometry, and migration and invasion assay were adopted to evaluate the effect of GANT61 on HCC cell lines. In vivo, xenograft studies were also performed to verify the effect of GANT61 on HCC. By CCK-8 assay, we found that GANT61 could significantly reduce the growth of HCC cell lines Huh7 and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLE), and their IC50 concentrations were 4.481 and 6.734 μM, respectively. Flow cytometry shows that GANT61 induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and accelerated apoptosis of both HLE and Huh7 cells. While migration and invasion assay shows that GANT61 weakens cells' migration and invasion ability. Besides that, GANT61 inhibits the expression of Gli1, FoxM1, CyclinD1, and Bcl-2, upregulates the level of Bax protein, and also reverses the epithelial-mesenchymal transition program by downregulating the expression of Vimentin and N-Cadherin and upregulating the expression of epithelial E-Cadherin expression. Furthermore, GANT61 inhibits the growth of subcutaneous xenografts of Huh7 cells in nude mice. Overall, this study suggests that Gli1 is a potential target for therapy and GANT61 shows promising therapeutic potential for future treatment in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jing-Lin Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Wen-Peng Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jun-Hong Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yi-Ze Fan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jian Dou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
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Ge M, Zhu J, Yi K, Chen Y, Cao W, Wang M, Xie C, Li X, Geng S, Wu J, Zhong C, Cao H, Jiang Z, Han H. Diallyl trisulfide inhibits gastric cancer stem cell properties through ΔNp63/sonic hedgehog pathway. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:1673-1685. [PMID: 37477518 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23607] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer is one of the deadliest malignant tumors, and half of the patients develop recurrences or metastasis within 5 years after eradication therapy. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be important in this progress. The sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway plays an important role in the maintenance of gastric CSCs characteristics. The p63 proteins are vital transcription factors belonging to the p53 family, while their functions in regulating CSCs remain unclear. The preventive effects of dietary diallyl trisulfide (DATS) against human gastric cancer have been verified. However, whether DATS can target gastric CSCs are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the role of ΔNp63/SHH pathway in gastric CSCs and the inhibitory effect of DATS on gastric CSCs via ΔNp63/SHH pathway. We found that ΔNp63 was upregulated in serum-free medium cultured gastric tumorspheres compared with the parental cells. Overexpression of ΔNp63 elevated the self-renewal capacity and CSC markers' levels in gastric sphere-forming cells. Furthermore, we found that ΔNp63 directly bound to the promoter region of Gli1, the key transcriptional factor of SHH pathway, to enhance its expression and to activate SHH pathway. In addition, it was revealed that DATS effectively inhibited gastric CSC properties both in vitro and in vivo settings. Activation of SHH pathway attenuated the suppressive effects of DATS on the stemness of gastric cancer. Moreover, DATS suppression of gastric CSC properties was also diminished by ΔNp63 upregulation through SHH pathway activation. These findings illustrated the role of ΔNp63/SHH pathway in DATS inhibition of gastric cancer stemness. Taken together, the present study suggested for the first time that DATS inhibited gastric CSCs properties by ΔNp63/SHH pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Ge
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianyun Zhu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Division of Nutrition, Suzhou Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Research Center, North District of Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kefan Yi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wanshuang Cao
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Menghuan Wang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunfeng Xie
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoting Li
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shanshan Geng
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jieshu Wu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Caiyun Zhong
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Division of Cancer Research, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiwei Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongyu Han
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Sun Y, Fang Q, Liu W, Liu Y, Zhang C. GANT-61 induces cell cycle resting and autophagy by down-regulating RNAP III signal pathway and tRNA-Gly-CCC synthesis to combate chondrosarcoma. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:461. [PMID: 37488121 PMCID: PMC10366213 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05926-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Chondrosarcoma is ineffective for conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy with a poor prognosis. Hedgehog (Hh) signal pathway plays a crucial role in tumor growth and progression, which is constitutive activated in chondrosarcoma. GLI transcription factors as targets for new drugs or interference technology for the treatment of chondrosarcoma are of great significance. In this study, we indicated that the Hedgehog-GLI1 signal pathway is activated in chondrosarcoma, which further enhances the RNAP III signal pathway to mediate endogenous tRNA fragments synthesis. Downstream oncology functions of endogenous tRNA fragments, such as "cell cycle" and "death receptor binding", are involved in malignant chondrosarcoma. The GANT-61, as an inhibitor of GLI1, could inhibit chondrosarcoma tumor growth effectively by inhibiting the RNAP III signal pathway and tRNA-Gly-CCC synthesis in vivo. Induced G2/M cell cycle resting, apoptosis, and autophagy were the main mechanisms for the inhibitory effect of GANT-61 on chondrosarcoma, which correspond with the above-described downstream oncology functions of endogenous tRNA fragments. We also identified the molecular mechanism by which GANT-61-induced autophagy is involved in ULK1 expression and MAPK signaling pathway. Thus, GANT-61 will be an ideal and promising strategy for combating chondrosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, PR China
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Surgery, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Qiongxuan Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, PR China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, PR China
| | - Chunming Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, PR China.
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5
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Zhao Y, Qin C, Zhao B, Wang Y, Li Z, Li T, Yang X, Wang W. Pancreatic cancer stemness: dynamic status in malignant progression. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:122. [PMID: 37173787 PMCID: PMC10182699 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02693-2] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests that the capacity for self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) contribute to major challenges with current PC therapies, causing metastasis and therapeutic resistance, leading to recurrence and death in patients. The concept that PCSCs are characterized by their high plasticity and self-renewal capacities is central to this review. We focused specifically on the regulation of PCSCs, such as stemness-related signaling pathways, stimuli in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the development of innovative stemness-targeted therapies. Understanding the biological behavior of PCSCs with plasticity and the molecular mechanisms regulating PC stemness will help to identify new treatment strategies to treat this horrible disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
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Wu A, Turner KA, Woolfson A, Jiang X. The Hedgehog Pathway as a Therapeutic Target in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030958. [PMID: 36986819 PMCID: PMC10053130 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the development of therapeutic agents that selectively target cancer cells, relapse driven by acquired drug resistance and resulting treatment failure remains a significant issue. The highly conserved Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway performs multiple roles in both development and tissue homeostasis, and its aberrant regulation is known to drive the pathogenesis of numerous human malignancies. However, the role of HH signaling in mediating disease progression and drug resistance remains unclear. This is especially true for myeloid malignancies. The HH pathway, and in particular the protein Smoothened (SMO), has been shown to be essential for regulating stem cell fate in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Evidence suggests that HH pathway activity is critical for maintaining the drug-resistant properties and survival of CML leukemic stem cells (LSCs), and that dual inhibition of BCR-ABL1 and SMO may comprise an effective therapeutic strategy for the eradication of these cells in patients. This review will explore the evolutionary origins of HH signaling, highlighting its roles in development and disease, which are mediated by canonical and non-canonical HH signaling. Development of small molecule inhibitors of HH signaling and clinical trials using these inhibitors as therapeutic agents in cancer and their potential resistance mechanisms, are also discussed, with a focus on CML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Wu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Interdisciplinary Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Kelly A. Turner
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Adrian Woolfson
- Replay Holdings Inc., 5555 Oberlin Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Jiang
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
- Interdisciplinary Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Modulation of Hedgehog Signaling for the Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma and the Development of Preclinical Models. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102376. [PMID: 36289637 PMCID: PMC9598418 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. While the survivability of BCC is high, many patients are excluded from clinically available treatments due to health risks or personal choice. Further, patients with advanced or metastatic disease have severely limited treatment options. The dysregulation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling cascade drives onset and progression of BCC. As such, the modulation of this pathway has driven advancements in BCC research. In this review, we focus firstly on inhibitors that target the Hh pathway as chemotherapeutics against BCC. Two therapies targeting Hh signaling have been made clinically available for BCC patients, but these treatments suffer from limited initial efficacy and a high rate of chemoresistant tumor recurrence. Herein, we describe more recent developments of chemical scaffolds that have been designed to hopefully improve upon the available therapeutics. We secondly discuss the history and recent efforts involving modulation of the Hh genome as a method of producing in vivo models of BCC for preclinical research. While there are many advancements left to be made towards improving patient outcomes with BCC, it is clear that targeting the Hh pathway will remain at the forefront of research efforts in designing more effective chemotherapeutics as well as relevant preclinical models.
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Quatannens D, Verhoeven Y, Van Dam P, Lardon F, Prenen H, Roeyen G, Peeters M, Smits ELJ, Van Audenaerde J. Targeting hedgehog signaling in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 236:108107. [PMID: 34999181 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a leading cause of cancer related death. The urgent need for effective therapies is highlighted by the lack of adequate targeting. In PDAC, hedgehog (Hh) signaling is known to be aberrantly activated, which prompted the pathway as a possible target for effective treatment for PDAC patients. Unfortunately, specific targeting of upstream molecules within the Hh signaling pathway failed to bring clinical benefit. This led to the ongoing debate on Hh targeting as a therapeutic treatment for PDAC patients. Additionally, concurrent non-canonical activation routes also result in translocation of Gli transcription factors into the nucleus. Therefore, different downstream targets of the Hh signaling pathway were identified and evaluated in preclinical and clinical research. In this review we summarize the variety of Hh signaling antagonists in different preclinical models of PDAC. Furthermore, we discuss published and ongoing clinical trials that evaluated Hh antagonists and point out the current hurdles and future perspectives in the light of redesigning Hh-targeting therapies for the treatment of PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Quatannens
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Yannick Verhoeven
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Peter Van Dam
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp (UZA), Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Filip Lardon
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Hans Prenen
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp (UZA), Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Geert Roeyen
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Hepatobiliary Transplantation and Endocrine Surgery, University Hospital Antwerp (UZA), Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Marc Peeters
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp (UZA), Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Evelien L J Smits
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Jonas Van Audenaerde
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Zou N, Liu R, Li C. Cathepsin K+ Non-Osteoclast Cells in the Skeletal System: Function, Models, Identity, and Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:818462. [PMID: 35912093 PMCID: PMC9326176 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.818462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cathepsin K (Ctsk) is a cysteine protease of the papain superfamily initially identified in differentiated osteoclasts; it plays a critical role in degrading the bone matrix. However, subsequent in vivo and in vitro studies based on animal models elucidate novel subpopulations of Ctsk-expressing cells, which display markers and properties of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells. This review introduces the function, identity, and role of Ctsk+ cells and their therapeutic implications in related preclinical osseous disorder models. It also summarizes the available in vivo models for studying Ctsk+ cells and their progeny. Further investigations of detailed properties and mechanisms of Ctsk+ cells in transgenic models are required to guide potential therapeutic targets in multiple diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanyu Zou
- Department of Endocrinology, Endocrinology Research Center, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Endocrinology Research Center, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Changjun Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Endocrinology Research Center, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders (Xiangya Hospital), Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Changjun Li,
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10
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Falduto GH, Pfeiffer A, Zhang Q, Yin Y, Metcalfe DD, Olivera A. A Critical Function for the Transcription Factors GLI1 and GLI2 in the Proliferation and Survival of Human Mast Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:841045. [PMID: 35251038 PMCID: PMC8888842 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cell hyperactivity and accumulation in tissues are associated with allergy and other mast cell-related disorders. However, the molecular pathways regulating mast cell survival in homeostasis and disease are not completely understood. As glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) proteins are involved in both tissue homeostasis and in the hematopoietic system by regulating cell fate decisions, we sought to investigate the role for GLI proteins in the control of proliferation and survival of human mast cells. GLI1 transcripts were present in primary human mast cells and mast cell lines harboring or not activating mutations in the tyrosine kinase receptor KIT (HMC-1.1 and HMC-1.2, and LAD2 cells, respectively), while GLI2 transcripts were only present in HMC-1.1 and HMC-1.2 cells, suggesting a role for oncogenic KIT signaling in the regulation of GLI2. Reduction in GLI activity by small molecule inhibitors, or by shRNA-mediated knockdown of GLI1 or GLI2, led to increases in apoptotic cell death in both cultured human and murine mast cells, and reduced the number of peritoneal mast cells in mice. Although GLI proteins are typically activated via the hedgehog pathway, steady-state activation of GLI in mast cells occurred primarily via non-canonical pathways. Apoptosis induced by GLI silencing was associated with a downregulation in the expression of KIT and of genes that influence p53 stability and function including USP48, which promotes p53 degradation; and iASPP, which inhibits p53-induced transcription, thus leading to the induction of p53-regulated apoptotic genes. Furthermore, we found that GLI silencing inhibited the proliferation of neoplastic mast cell lines, an effect that was more pronounced in rapidly growing cells. Our findings support the conclusion that GLI1/2 transcription factors are critical regulators of mast cell survival and that their inhibition leads to a significant reduction in the number of mast cells in vitro and in vivo, even in cells with constitutively active KIT variants. This knowledge can potentially be applicable to reducing mast cell burden in mast cell-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Hernan Falduto
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Annika Pfeiffer
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Qunshu Zhang
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yuzhi Yin
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Dean Darrel Metcalfe
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ana Olivera
- Mast Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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11
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Brue CR, Dukes MW, Masotti M, Holmgren R, Meade TJ. Functional Disruption of Gli1-DNA Recognition via a Cobalt(III) Complex. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200025. [PMID: 35302712 PMCID: PMC10826845 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The aberrant activation of the Gli family of zinc finger transcription factors (ZFTFs) is associated with several types of human cancer, including medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma. We have reported the use of cobalt(III) Schiff-base complexes (Co(III)-sb) as potent inhibitors of ZFTFs in vivo. These complexes inhibit transcription by displacing the zinc finger domain's structural Zn(II) ion, destabilizing the alpha helix necessary for DNA recognition. Here, we describe the use of Co(III)-sb complexes for the selective inhibition of Gli1. Spectroscopic and computational studies of the Gli1 DNA binding domain found that Co(III)-sb displaced Zn(II) through direct coordination with the His residues of the Cys2 His2 Zn(II) binding site. As a result, there is a dose-dependent degradation of the alpha-helix content in the DNA binding domain of Gli1 and corresponding inhibition of consensus sequence recognition. We conclude that this strategy is well suited for the development of new and potent inhibitors of Gli1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Brue
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, Neurobiology, and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208-3113, USA
| | - Meghan W Dukes
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, Neurobiology, and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208-3113, USA
| | - Meghan Masotti
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, Neurobiology, and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208-3113, USA
| | - Robert Holmgren
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, Neurobiology, and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208-3113, USA
| | - Thomas J Meade
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, Neurobiology, and Radiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208-3113, USA
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12
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Yu W, Ma Y, Shrivastava SK, Srivastava RK, Shankar S. Chronic alcohol exposure induces hepatocyte damage by inducing oxidative stress, SATB2 and stem cell‐like characteristics, and activating lipogenesis. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2119-2131. [PMID: 35152538 PMCID: PMC8980954 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol is a risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanism by which chronic alcohol consumption contributes to HCC is not well understood. The purpose of the study was to demonstrate the effects of chronic ethanol exposure on the damage of human normal hepatocytes. Our data showed that chronic exposure of hepatocytes with ethanol induced changes similar to transformed hepatocytes that is, exhibited colonies and anchorage‐independent growth. These damaged hepatocytes contained high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and showed induction of the SATB2 gene. Furthermore, damaged hepatocytes gained the phenotypes of CSCs which expressed stem cell markers (CD133, CD44, CD90, EpCAM, AFP and LGR5), and pluripotency maintaining factors (Sox‐2, POU5F1/Oct4 and KLF‐4). Ethanol exposure also induced Nanog, a pluripotency maintaining transcription factor that functions in concert with Oct4 and SOX‐2. Furthermore, ethanol induced expression of EMT‐related transcription factors (Snail, Slug and Zeb1), N‐Cadherin, and inhibited E‐cadherin expression in damaged hepatocytes. Ethanol enhanced recruitment of SATB2 to promoters of Bcl‐2, Nanog, c‐Myc, Klf4 and Oct4. Ethanol also induced activation of the Wnt/TCF‐LEF1 pathway and its targets (Bcl‐2, Cyclin D1, AXIN2 and Myc). Finally, ethanol induced hepatocellular steatosis, SREBP1 transcription, and modulated the expression of SREBP1c, ACAC, ACLY, FASN, IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, GPC3, FLNB and p53. These data suggest that chronic alcohol consumption may contribute towards the development of HCC by damaging normal hepatocytes with the generation of inflammatory environment, induction of SATB2, stem cell‐like characteristics, and cellular steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yu
- Kansas City VA Medical Center Kansas City Missouri USA
| | - Yiming Ma
- Kansas City VA Medical Center Kansas City Missouri USA
| | - Sushant K. Shrivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutics Indian Institute of Technology Banaras Hindu University Varanasi U.P. India
| | - Rakesh K. Srivastava
- Kansas City VA Medical Center Kansas City Missouri USA
- Department of Genetics Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans Louisina USA
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center Department of Genetics Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans Louisina USA
- A.B. Freeman School of Business Tulane University New Orleans Louisina USA
| | - Sharmila Shankar
- Kansas City VA Medical Center Kansas City Missouri USA
- John W. Deming Department of Medicine Tulane University School of Medicine New Orleans Louisina USA
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System New Orleans Louisina USA
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13
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Zhou X, Wang W, Li Z, Chen L, Wen C, Ruan Q, Xu Z, Liu R, Xu J, Bai Y, Deng J. Rosmarinic Acid Decreases the Malignancy of Pancreatic Cancer Through Inhibiting Gli1 Signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 95:153861. [PMID: 34864627 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rosmarinic acid (RA) has been shown to exert anti-tumor effects on various types of cancer. However, its roles in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. PURPOSE The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of RA on PDAC as well as the underlying mechanisms. STUDY DESIGN Evaluation of the effects of RA on PDAC malignancy both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) assay, colony formation assay, 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EDU) incorporation assay, cell cycle analysis, and apoptosis assay were conducted to assess the inhibitory effect of RA on PDAC cell proliferation. Meanwhile, western blotting and RT-qPCR assay were performed to detect the target gene expression at protein and mRNA levels, respectively. Moreover, the in vivo anti-tumor activities of RA were assayed in an xenograft mouse model of PDAC. RESULTS RA dramatically down-regulated Gli1 and its downstream targets. Further studies showed that RA prevents the nuclear translocation of Gli1, while promoting the degradation of cytosolic Gli1 via the proteasome pathway. Moreover, we observed that RA induced G1/S cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in the PDAC cells through regulating the expression of P21, P27, CDK2, Cyclin E, Bax, and Bcl-2, it inhibited the PDAC cell migration and invasion via E-cadherin and MMP-9. Notably, Gli1 overexpression markedly reversed the above RA-induced effects on PDAC cells, whereas Gli1 knockdown enhanced the effects. Additionally, the in vivo assays demonstrated that RA suppresses the tumor growth of PDAC presumably by inhibiting Gli1. CONCLUSION We provided evidence that RA restrained the nuclear translocation of Gli1 and facilitates Gli1 degradation via proteasome pathway, reducing the malignancy of PDAC cells. These findings implicated RA as a therapeutic agent for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Weiming Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Zhaofeng Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Lin Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Chunmei Wen
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Qingqing Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Zheng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Rongdiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Jinzhong Xu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenling 317500, China
| | - Yongheng Bai
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Center for Health Assessment, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Jie Deng
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Center for Health Assessment, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
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14
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Yu W, Ma Y, Roy SK, Srivastava R, Shankar S, Srivastava RK. Ethanol exposure of human pancreatic normal ductal epithelial cells induces EMT phenotype and enhances pancreatic cancer development in KC (Pdx1-Cre and LSL-Kras G12D ) mice. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 26:399-409. [PMID: 34859959 PMCID: PMC8743655 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. However, the molecular mechanism by which chronic alcohol consumption influences pancreatic cancer development is not well understood. We have recently demonstrated that chronic ethanol exposure of pancreatic normal ductal epithelial cells (HPNE) induces cellular transformation by generating cancer stem cells (CSCs). Here, we examined whether chronic ethanol treatment induces epithelial–mesenchymal transition in HPNE cells and promotes pancreatic cancer development in KC (Pdx1‐Cre, and LSL‐KrasG12D) mice. Our data demonstrate that chronic ethanol exposure of HPNE cells induces SATB2 gene and those cells became highly motile. Ethanol treatment of HPNE cells results in downregulation of E‐Cadherin and upregulation of N‐Cadherin, Snail, Slug, Zeb1, Nanog and BMI‐1. Suppression of SATB2 expression in ethanol‐transformed HPNE cells inhibits EMT phenotypes. KC mice fed with an ethanol‐containing diet show enhanced pancreatic cancer growth and development than those fed with a control diet. Pancreas isolated from KC mice fed with an ethanol‐containing diet show higher expression of stem cell markers (CD133, CD44, CD24), pluripotency‐maintaining factors (cMyc, KLF4, SOX‐2, and Oct‐4), N‐Cadherin, EMT‐transcription factors (Snail, Slug, and Zeb1), and lower expression of E‐cadherin than those isolated from mice fed with a control diet. Furthermore, pancreas isolated from KC mice fed with an ethanol‐containing diet show higher expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐8) and PTGS‐2 (COX‐2) gene than those isolated from mice fed with a control diet. These data suggest that chronic alcohol consumption may contribute to pancreatic cancer development by generating inflammatory signals and CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yu
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Yuming Ma
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Sanjit K Roy
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA
| | - Rashmi Srivastava
- Department of Pharmacology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA
| | - Sharmila Shankar
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA.,Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA.,Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA.,John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisina, USA.,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, Louisina, USA
| | - Rakesh K Srivastava
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA.,Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA.,Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisina, USA.,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, Louisina, USA
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15
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Tanigawa S, Fujita M, Moyama C, Ando S, Ii H, Kojima Y, Fujishita T, Aoki M, Takeuchi H, Yamanaka T, Takahashi Y, Hashimoto N, Nakata S. Inhibition of Gli2 suppresses tumorigenicity in glioblastoma stem cells derived from a de novo murine brain cancer model. Cancer Gene Ther 2021; 28:1339-1352. [PMID: 33414520 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-020-00282-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The prognosis of glioblastoma remains poor despite intensive research efforts. Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) contribute to tumorigenesis, invasive capacity, and therapy resistance. Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5), a stem cell marker, is involved in the maintenance of GSCs, although the properties of Lgr5-positive GSCs remain unclear. Here, the Sleeping-Beauty transposon-induced glioblastoma model was used in Lgr5-GFP knock-in mice identify GFP-positive cells in neurosphere cultures from mouse glioblastoma tissues. Global gene expression analysis showed that Gli2 was highly expressed in GFP-positive GSCs. Gli2 knockdown using lentiviral-mediated shRNA downregulated Hedgehog-related and Wnt signaling pathway-related genes, including Lgr5; suppressed tumor cell proliferation and invasion capacity; and induced apoptosis. Pharmacological Gli inhibition with GANT61 suppressed tumor cell proliferation. Silencing Gli2 suppressed the tumorigenicity of GSCs in an orthotopic transplantation model in vivo. These findings suggest that Gli2 affects the Hedgehog and Wnt pathways and plays an important role in GSC maintenance, suggesting Gli2 as a therapeutic target for glioblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seisuke Tanigawa
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto Prefectural University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mitsugu Fujita
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Chiami Moyama
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shota Ando
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiromi Ii
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kojima
- Division of Pathophysiology, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Teruaki Fujishita
- Division of Pathophysiology, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahiro Aoki
- Division of Pathophysiology, Aichi Cancer Center Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Cancer Physiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hayato Takeuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto Prefectural University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takumi Yamanaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto Prefectural University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Takahashi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto Prefectural University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Naoya Hashimoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto Prefectural University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Susumu Nakata
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto, Japan.
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16
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Wu C, Li Z, Feng G, Wang L, Xie J, Jin Y, Wang L, Liu S. Tumor suppressing role of serum-derived exosomal microRNA-15a in osteosarcoma cells through the GATA binding protein 2/murine double minute 2 axis and the p53 signaling pathway. Bioengineered 2021; 12:8378-8395. [PMID: 34592889 PMCID: PMC8806960 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1987092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are emerging tools for transporting lipids, proteins, microRNAs (miRNAs), or other biomarkers for clinical purposes. They have produced widespread concern in managing human diseases, including osteosarcoma (OS). This study focuses on the function of serum-derived exosomal miR-15a in the growth of OS cells and the mechanism of action. Differentially expressed genes between OS and normal samples were screened using two datasets GSE70367 and GSE65071. miR-15a was poorly expressed, whereas GATA-binding protein 2 (GATA2) and murine double minute 2 (MDM2) were abundantly expressed in OS samples. miR-15a and its target mRNAs, including GATA2, were enriched in the p53 signaling pathway. miR-15a directly targets GATA2 mRNA to inhibit its expression, whereas GATA2 activates the transcription of MDM2, a negative regulator of p53. Overexpression of GATA2 and MDM2 promoted proliferation and cell cycle progression of MG-63 cells, whereas miR-15a blocked this axis and suppressed cell growth. miR-15a was identified as a major cargo of serum-derived exosomes, and exosomes conveying miR-15a were internalized by OS cells. This study demonstrated that miR-15a suppresses the GATA2/MDM2 axis to inhibit the proliferation and invasiveness of OS cells in vitro through the p53 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wu
- Department of Continuing Education, Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of the Second Ward Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Guang Feng
- Department of Youth League Committee, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Liqin Wang
- Department of Vice Director of the Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Jingri Xie
- Department of the Liver Spleen and Stomach, Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of the Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Graduate Division, Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
| | - Songjiang Liu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, P.R. China
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17
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Loo CKC, Pearen MA, Ramm GA. The Role of Sonic Hedgehog in Human Holoprosencephaly and Short-Rib Polydactyly Syndromes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189854. [PMID: 34576017 PMCID: PMC8468456 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) signalling pathway is one of the major pathways controlling cell differentiation and proliferation during human development. This pathway is complex, with HH function influenced by inhibitors, promotors, interactions with other signalling pathways, and non-genetic and cellular factors. Many aspects of this pathway are not yet clarified. The main features of Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signalling are discussed in relation to its function in human development. The possible role of SHH will be considered using examples of holoprosencephaly and short-rib polydactyly (SRP) syndromes. In these syndromes, there is wide variability in phenotype even with the same genetic mutation, so that other factors must influence the outcome. SHH mutations were the first identified genetic causes of holoprosencephaly, but many other genes and environmental factors can cause malformations in the holoprosencephaly spectrum. Many patients with SRP have genetic defects affecting primary cilia, structures found on most mammalian cells which are thought to be necessary for canonical HH signal transduction. Although SHH signalling is affected in both these genetic conditions, there is little overlap in phenotype. Possible explanations will be canvassed, using data from published human and animal studies. Implications for the understanding of SHH signalling in humans will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine K. C. Loo
- South Eastern Area Laboratory Services, Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-93829015
| | - Michael A. Pearen
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.A.P.); (G.A.R.)
| | - Grant A. Ramm
- Hepatic Fibrosis Group, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.A.P.); (G.A.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
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18
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Carballo GB, Ribeiro JH, Lopes GPDF, Ferrer VP, Dezonne RS, Pereira CM, Spohr TCLDSE. GANT-61 Induces Autophagy and Apoptosis in Glioblastoma Cells despite their heterogeneity. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 41:1227-1244. [PMID: 32504326 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00891-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common adult primary tumor of the CNS characterized by rapid growth and diffuse invasiveness into the brain parenchyma. The GBM resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs may be due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The CSCs activate the same molecular pathways as healthy stem cells such as WNT, Sonic hedgehog (SHH), and Notch. Mutations or deregulations of those pathways play a key role in the proliferation and differentiation of their surrounding environment, leading to tumorigenesis. Here we investigated the effect of SHH signaling pathway inhibition in human GBM cells by using GANT-61, considering stem cell phenotype, cell proliferation, and cell death. Our results demonstrated that GANT-61 induces apoptosis and autophagy in GBM cells, by increasing the expression of LC3 II and cleaved caspase 3 and 9. Moreover, we observed that SHH signaling plays a crucial role in CSC phenotype maintenance, being also involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. We also noted that SHH pathway modulation can regulate cell proliferation as revealed through the analysis of Ki-67 and c-MYC expressions. We concluded that SHH signaling pathway inhibition may be a promising therapeutic approach to treat patients suffering from GBM refractory to traditional treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Basile Carballo
- Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rua do Rezende 156, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20231-092, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Orofacial Development and Regeneration, Institute of Oral Biology, Centre for Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Honorato Ribeiro
- Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rua do Rezende 156, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20231-092, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK·CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Giselle Pinto de Faria Lopes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Departamento de Biotecnologia Marinha, Instituto de Estudos do Mar Almirante Paulo Moreira (IEAPM)/Coordenação de Pesquisa, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Valéria Pereira Ferrer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biology, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Romulo Sperduto Dezonne
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biomedicina Translacional, Universidade Do Grande Rio, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Maria Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biomedicina Translacional, Universidade Do Grande Rio, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Tania Cristina Leite de Sampaio E Spohr
- Instituto Estadual Do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rua do Rezende 156, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20231-092, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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19
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Zhang A, Aslam H, Sharma N, Warmflash A, Fakhouri WD. Conservation of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Process in Neural Crest Cells and Metastatic Cancer. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 210:151-172. [PMID: 34218225 DOI: 10.1159/000516466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a highly conserved cellular process in several species, from worms to humans. EMT plays a fundamental role in early embryogenesis, wound healing, and cancer metastasis. For neural crest cell (NCC) development, EMT typically results in forming a migratory and potent cell population that generates a wide variety of cell and tissue, including cartilage, bone, connective tissue, endocrine cells, neurons, and glia amongst many others. The degree of conservation between the signaling pathways that regulate EMT during development and metastatic cancer (MC) has not been fully established, despite ample studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis dissects the major signaling pathways involved in EMT of NCC development and MC to unravel the similarities and differences. While the FGF, TGFβ/BMP, SHH, and NOTCH pathways have been rigorously investigated in both systems, the EGF, IGF, HIPPO, Factor Receptor Superfamily, and their intracellular signaling cascades need to be the focus of future NCC studies. In general, meta-analyses of the associated signaling pathways show a significant number of overlapping genes (particularly ligands, transcription regulators, and targeted cadherins) involved in each signaling pathway of both systems without stratification by body segments and cancer type. Lack of stratification makes it difficult to meaningfully evaluate the intracellular downstream effectors of each signaling pathway. Finally, pediatric neuroblastoma and melanoma are NCC-derived malignancies, which emphasize the importance of uncovering the EMT events that convert NCC into treatment-resistant malignant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Zhang
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hira Aslam
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Neha Sharma
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Walid D Fakhouri
- Center for Craniofacial Research, Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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20
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Wang ZM, Xu QR, Kaul D, Ismail M, Badakhshi H. Significance of tumor mutation burden and immune infiltration in thymic epithelial tumors. Thorac Cancer 2021; 12:1995-2006. [PMID: 34033229 PMCID: PMC8258363 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are relatively rare malignant thoracic tumors. Tumor mutation burden (TMB) and immune infiltration play important roles in tumorigenesis. Methods Research data was obtained using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to evaluate the landscape of tumor mutations, related factors, and relationship of prognosis. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to evaluate immune cell infiltration in TETs and its relationship with TMB. Immune‐related differentially expressed genes (irDEGs) were identified. Hub irDEGs independently related to prognosis were analyzed using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. A survival signature was constructed from hub irDEGs. Results A total of 122 patients were included in this study. GTF2I was the most common gene mutation. Higher TMB was significantly associated with the later stage, more advanced pathological type, and older age. The overall survival (OS) of patients in the low‐TMB group was significantly better. There was no significant correlation between TMB levels and PD‐L1 expression. Enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were mainly involved in the P13K–Akt signaling pathway. There were significant differences in macrophage and other types of immune cell infiltration between the high‐ and low‐TMB groups. CCR5, FASLG, and CD79A independently relating to prognosis were screened from 391 irDEGs. The low‐risk group had a significantly better prognosis than the high‐risk group based on the signature, which has a good predictive effect on OS. Conclusions In this study, TETs patients with high TMB had a significantly poor prognosis and an immune‐related gene signature was found to effectively evaluate the long‐term prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Ming Wang
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann, Academic Hospital of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Qi-Rong Xu
- School of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - David Kaul
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Humboldt University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mahmoud Ismail
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann, Academic Hospital of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Harun Badakhshi
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann, Academic Hospital of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Potsdam, Germany
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21
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Iriana S, Asha K, Repak M, Sharma-Walia N. Hedgehog Signaling: Implications in Cancers and Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1042. [PMID: 33494284 PMCID: PMC7864517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is primarily involved in embryonic gut development, smooth muscle differentiation, cell proliferation, adult tissue homeostasis, tissue repair following injury, and tissue polarity during the development of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. GLIoma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) family of zinc-finger transcription factors and smoothened (SMO) are the signal transducers of the SHH pathway. Both SHH ligand-dependent and independent mechanisms activate GLI proteins. Various transcriptional mechanisms, posttranslational modifications (phosphorylation, ubiquitination, proteolytic processing, SUMOylation, and acetylation), and nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling control the activity of SHH signaling pathway proteins. The dysregulated SHH pathway is associated with bone and soft tissue sarcomas, GLIomas, medulloblastomas, leukemias, and tumors of breast, lung, skin, prostate, brain, gastric, and pancreas. While extensively studied in development and sarcomas, GLI family proteins play an essential role in many host-pathogen interactions, including bacterial and viral infections and their associated cancers. Viruses hijack host GLI family transcription factors and their downstream signaling cascades to enhance the viral gene transcription required for replication and pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss a distinct role(s) of GLI proteins in the process of tumorigenesis and host-pathogen interactions in the context of viral infection-associated malignancies and cancers due to other causes. Here, we emphasize the potential of the Hedgehog (HH) pathway targeting as a potential anti-cancer therapeutic approach, which in the future could also be tested in infection-associated fatalities.
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22
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Zhao Y, Yang X, Zhao J, Gao M, Zhang M, Shi T, Zhang F, Zheng X, Pan Y, Shao D, Li J, He K, Chen L. Berberine inhibits chemotherapy-exacerbated ovarian cancer stem cell-like characteristics and metastasis through GLI1. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 895:173887. [PMID: 33482182 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Despite the remarkable clinical response in ovarian cancer therapy, the distinctively high metastasis rate is still a barrier to achieve satisfying prognosis. Our study aimed to decipher the role of berberine in inhibiting chemotherapy-exacerbated ovarian cancer metastasis. We found that chemotherapy exacerbated the migration and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like characteristics through transcriptional factor GLI1, which regulated the pluripotency-associated gene BMI1 and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers Vimentin and Snail. Berberine could not only down-regulate CSC-like characteristics but also reverse EMT and migration through inhibiting chemotherapy-activated GLI1/BMI1 signaling pathway. Together, our study revealed the pivotal role of berberine in overcoming chemotherapy-exacerbated ovarian cancer metastasis, thereby provided a potential adjuvant therapeutic agent in combination with chemotherapeutics to prevent metastasis during ovarian cancer chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuehan Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtong Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Mohan Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongfei Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Shao
- Institutes of Life Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering and National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou International Campus, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Kan He
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China; School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Zhang KQ, Chu XD. GANT61 plays antitumor effects by inducing oxidative stress through the miRNA-1286/RAB31 axis in osteosarcoma. Cell Biol Int 2021; 45:61-73. [PMID: 32936498 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a rare malignancy of bone associated with poor clinical outcomes. The antitumor effects of GANT61 on OS is unclear. To investigate antitumor effects and mechanism of GANT61 in OS cells and xenograft model. Effects of GANT61 on cell viability, clone formation, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion ability of OS cells were assessed. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels measured by dichlorofluorescein fluorescence were used to evaluate oxidative stress. The Xenograft model was constructed to investigate the antitumor effects of GANT61 in vivo. The microRNA (miRNA)-1286 was downregulated, while RAB31 upregulated in OS tissues and cells. GANT61 inhibited viability, migration, and invasion ability of OS cells (SaOS-2 and U2OS), and induced apoptosis and the ROS production, along with miRNA-1286 upregulation and RAB13 downregulation. After knockdown of miRNA-1286, GANT6-induced cell inhibition was attenuated, along with RAB31 upregulation. Inversely, miRNA-1286 overexpression downregulated RAB31. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified that miR-1286 negatively targeted RAB13. Moreover, the knockdown of RAB31 stimulated apoptosis and ROS production while inhibited viability, migration, and invasion of GANT61-treated cells. In vivo experiments further confirmed that GANT61 inhibited tumor growth and RAB13 expression, but enhanced miRNA-1286. The study demonstrated that GANT61 inhibited cell aggressive phenotype and tumor growth by inducing oxidative stress through the miRNA-1286/RAB31 axis. Our findings provided a potential antitumor agent for the OS clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuai-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic, Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Chu
- Department of Orthopedic, Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
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24
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Peyre L, Meyer M, Hofman P, Roux J. TRAIL receptor-induced features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition increase tumour phenotypic heterogeneity: potential cell survival mechanisms. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:91-101. [PMID: 33257838 PMCID: PMC7782794 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01177-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The continuing efforts to exploit the death receptor agonists, such as the tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), for cancer therapy, have largely been impaired by the anti-apoptotic and pro-survival signalling pathways leading to drug resistance. Cell migration, invasion, differentiation, immune evasion and anoikis resistance are plastic processes sharing features of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that have been shown to give cancer cells the ability to escape cell death upon cytotoxic treatments. EMT has recently been suggested to drive a heterogeneous cellular environment that appears favourable for tumour progression. Recent studies have highlighted a link between EMT and cell sensitivity to TRAIL, whereas others have highlighted their effects on the induction of EMT. This review aims to explore the molecular mechanisms by which death signals can elicit an increase in response heterogeneity in the metastasis context, and to evaluate the impact of these processes on cell responses to cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovic Peyre
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284, Inserm U 1081, Institut de Recherche sur le Cancer et le Vieillissement de Nice (IRCAN), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06107, Nice, France
| | - Mickael Meyer
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284, Inserm U 1081, Institut de Recherche sur le Cancer et le Vieillissement de Nice (IRCAN), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06107, Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284, Inserm U 1081, Institut de Recherche sur le Cancer et le Vieillissement de Nice (IRCAN), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06107, Nice, France
| | - Jérémie Roux
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR 7284, Inserm U 1081, Institut de Recherche sur le Cancer et le Vieillissement de Nice (IRCAN), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06107, Nice, France.
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25
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Feng H, Xing W, Han Y, Sun J, Kong M, Gao B, Yang Y, Yin Z, Chen X, Zhao Y, Bi Q, Zou W. Tendon-derived cathepsin K-expressing progenitor cells activate Hedgehog signaling to drive heterotopic ossification. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:6354-6365. [PMID: 32853181 PMCID: PMC7685727 DOI: 10.1172/jci132518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterotopic ossification (HO) is pathological bone formation characterized by ossification within muscle, tendons, or other soft tissues. However, the cells of origin and mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HO remain elusive. Here we show that deletion of suppressor of fused (Sufu) in cathepsin K-Cre-expressing (Ctsk-Cre-expressing) cells resulted in spontaneous and progressive ligament, tendon, and periarticular ossification. Lineage tracing studies and cell functional analysis demonstrated that Ctsk-Cre could label a subpopulation of tendon-derived progenitor cells (TDPCs) marked by the tendon marker Scleraxis (Scx). Ctsk+Scx+ TDPCs are enriched for tendon stem cell markers and show the highest self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential. Sufu deficiency caused enhanced chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of Ctsk-Cre-expressing tendon-derived cells via upregulation of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling. Furthermore, pharmacological intervention in Hh signaling using JQ1 suppressed the development of HO. Thus, our results show that Ctsk-Cre labels a subpopulation of TDPCs contributing to HO and that their cell-fate changes are driven by activation of Hh signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenhui Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujiao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingxiang Kong
- Department of Orthopedics and Joint Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Orthopedic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi Yin
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Bi
- Department of Orthopedics and Joint Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiguo Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
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26
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Dusek CO, Hadden MK. Targeting the GLI family of transcription factors for the development of anti-cancer drugs. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 16:289-302. [PMID: 33006903 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1832078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GLI1 is a transcription factor that has been identified as a downstream effector for multiple tumorigenic signaling pathways. These include the Hedgehog, RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK, and PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathways, which have all been separately validated as individual anti-cancer drug targets. The identification of GLI1 as a key transcriptional regulator for each of these pathways highlights its promise as a therapeutic target. Small molecule GLI1 inhibitors are potentially efficacious against human malignancies arising from multiple oncogenic mechanisms. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of the key oncogenic cellular pathways that regulate GLI1 transcriptional activity. It also provides a detailed account of small molecule GLI1 inhibitors that are currently under development as potential anti-cancer chemotherapeutics. EXPERT OPINION Interest in developing inhibitors of GLI1-mediated transcription has significantly increased as its role in multiple oncogenic signaling pathways has been elucidated. To date, it has proven difficult to directly target GLI1 with small molecules, and the majority of compounds that inhibit GLI1 activity function through indirect mechanisms. To date, no direct-acting GLI1 inhibitor has entered clinical trials. The identification and development of new scaffolds that can bind and directly inhibit GLI1 are essential to further advance this class of chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher O Dusek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - M Kyle Hadden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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27
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Guo Y, Tong Y, Zhu H, Xiao Y, Guo H, Shang L, Zheng W, Ma S, Liu X, Bai Y. Quercetin suppresses pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression via inhibition of SHH and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways. Cell Biol Toxicol 2020; 37:479-496. [PMID: 33070227 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-020-09562-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is an aggressive type of malignant tumor with a poor prognosis and high mortality. Aberrant activation of hedgehog signaling plays a crucial role in the maintenance and progression of PDA. Here, we report that the dietary bioflavonoid quercetin has therapeutic potential for PDA by targeting sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling. The effects of quercetin on the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) and tumor growth and metastasis in PDA xenograft mouse models were evaluated. Additionally, SHH signaling activity was determined. Quercetin significantly inhibited PCC proliferation by downregulating c-Myc expression. In addition, quercetin suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by reducing TGF-β1 level, which resulted in inhibition of PCC migration and invasion. Moreover, quercetin induced PCC apoptosis through mitochondrial and death receptor pathways. In nude mouse models, PDA growth and metastasis were reduced by quercetin treatment. Mechanically, quercetin exerts its therapeutic effects on PDA by decreasing SHH activity. Interestingly, quercetin-induced SHH inactivation is mainly dependent on Gli2, but not Gli1. Enhance SHH activity by recombinant Shh protein abolished the quercetin-mediated inhibition of PCC proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, Shh activated TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling and promoted EMT by inducing the expression of Zeb2 and Snail1 that eventually resulted in a partial reversal of quercetin-mediated inhibition of PCC migration and invasion. We conclude that quercetin inhibited the growth, migration, and invasion and induced apoptosis of PCCs by antagonizing SHH and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways. Thus, quercetin may be a potential candidate for PDA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yu Tong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Hengyue Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yanyi Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Hangcheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Lumeng Shang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Wenjing Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Shumei Ma
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.,Center for Health Assessment, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Platform for Radiation Protection and Emergency Preparedness, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China. .,Center for Health Assessment, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Yongheng Bai
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China. .,Center for Health Assessment, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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28
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Ramachandran S, Srivastava SK. Repurposing Pimavanserin, an Anti-Parkinson Drug for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2020; 19:19-32. [PMID: 33024816 PMCID: PMC7527685 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2020.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite major advances in cancer treatment, pancreatic cancer is still incurable and the treatment outcomes are limited. The aggressive and therapy-resistant nature of pancreatic cancer warrants the need for novel treatment options for pancreatic cancer management. Drug repurposing is emerging as an effectual strategy in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer. In the present study, we evaluated the anticancer effects of pimavanserin tartrate (PVT), an antipsychotic drug used for the treatment of Parkinson disease psychosis. PVT significantly suppressed the proliferation and induced apoptosis in various pancreatic cancer cells and gemcitabine-resistant cells with minimal effects on normal pancreatic epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts. Growth-suppressive and apoptotic effects of PVT were mediated by the inhibition of the Akt/Gli1 signaling axis. The oral administration of PVT suppressed subcutaneous and orthotopic pancreatic tumor xenografts by 51%–77%. The chronic administration of PVT did not demonstrate any general signs of toxicity or change in behavioral activity of mice. Our results indicate that pancreatic tumor growth suppression by PVT was orchestrated by the inhibition of Akt/Gli1 signaling. Since PVT is already available in the clinic with an established safety profile, our results will accelerate its clinical development for the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharavan Ramachandran
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Center for Tumor Immunology and Targeted Cancer Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX 79601, USA
| | - Sanjay K Srivastava
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Center for Tumor Immunology and Targeted Cancer Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX 79601, USA
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GANT61 Reduces Hedgehog Molecule (GLI1) Expression and Promotes Apoptosis in Metastatic Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176076. [PMID: 32846867 PMCID: PMC7503713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176076] [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: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to its importance in the pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the Hedgehog (HH) pathway is considered a potential therapeutic target. We investigated the effects of GANT61, a GLI inhibitor, on HH gene expression, as well as on metastatic OSCC cell proliferation and death. Following culture in DMEM medium, cytotoxicity of GANT61 against different tumor and non-tumor cell types was assessed by alamarBlue assays. Cytotoxicity analysis revealed that the metastatic HSC3 cell line was the most sensitive (IC50: 36 µM) to the tested compound. The compound’s effects on the expression of HH pathways components were analyzed by qPCR and Western blot; cell viability was analyzed by trypan blue assay and flow cytometry were used to investigate cell cycle phase, morphology, and death patterns in HSC3 cells. A significant reduction in mRNA levels of the GLI1 transcription factor was found after 12 h of treatment withGANT61. Protein expression levels of other HH pathway components (PTCH1, SHH, and Gli1) and HSC3 cell viability also decreased after 24 h of treatment. Cell cycle analysis and death pattern evaluations revealed significantly increased nuclear fragmentation in sub-G1 phase, as well as cell death due to apoptosis. In conclusion, the significantly reduced GLI1 gene expression seen in response to the GLI inhibitor indicates diminished downstream activation in HH pathway components. GANT61 significantly reduced cell viability in the metastatic cell line of OSCC and promoted a significant increase in nuclear fragmentation and cell death by apoptosis.
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30
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Chang KJ, Yin JZ, Huang H, Li B, Yang MH. Arsenic trioxide inhibits the growth of cancer stem cells derived from small cell lung cancer by downregulating stem cell-maintenance factors and inducing apoptosis via the Hedgehog signaling blockade. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2020; 9:1379-1396. [PMID: 32953511 PMCID: PMC7481635 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-20-467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most deadly and aggressive type of primary lung cancer, with the 5-year survival rate lower than 5%. The FDA has approved arsenic trioxide (As2O3) for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) treatment. However, its role in SCLC-derived cancer stem cells (CSCs) remains largely unknown. Methods CSCs were enriched from SCLC cell lines by culturing them as spheres in conditioned serum-free medium. Then, qPCR, western blot, serial passage, limiting dilution, Transwell, and tumorigenesis assay were performed to verify the cells' stem phenotypic characteristics. Anticancer efficiency of As2O3 was assessed in these cells using CCK8, colony formation, sphere formation, flow cytometry, qPCR, western blot analysis in vitro, and tumor growth curve, immunofluorescence, and TUNEL staining analyses in vivo. Results The fifth-passage SCLC spheres showed a potent self-renewal capacity, higher clonal formation efficiency (CFE), SOX2, c-Myc, NANOG, and OCT4 levels, and invasion ability, and stronger tumorigenesis capacity than the parental SCLC cells, indicating that the SCLC sphere cells displayed CSC features. As2O3 inhibited the proliferation, clonality and sphere forming ability of SCLC-derived CSCs and suppressed the tumor growth of CSCs-derived xenograft tumors. As2O3 induced apoptosis and downregulation of SOX2 and c-Myc in vitro and in xenografts. Besides, SOX2 knockdown suppressed SCLC-derived CSCs to self-renew and induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, expression of GLI1 (a key transcription factor of Hedgehog pathway) and its downstream genes increased in SCLC-derived CSCs, compared to the parental cells. As2O3 dramatically downregulated GLI1 and its downstream genes in vitro and in vivo. The GLI inhibitor (GANT-61) recapitulated and enhanced the effects of As2O3 on SCLC-derived CSCs, including growth suppression, apoptosis induction, and GLI1, SOX2 and c-Myc downregulation. Conclusions Altogether, As2O3 effectively suppressed SCLC-derived CSCs growth by downregulating stem cell-maintenance factors and inducing apoptosis. These effects are mediated at least partly via the Hedgehog signaling blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Jie Chang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun-Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Ji-Zhong Yin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Hang Yang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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31
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Zhao Y, He M, Cui L, Gao M, Zhang M, Yue F, Shi T, Yang X, Pan Y, Zheng X, Jia Y, Shao D, Li J, He K, Chen L. Chemotherapy exacerbates ovarian cancer cell migration and cancer stem cell-like characteristics through GLI1. Br J Cancer 2020; 122:1638-1648. [PMID: 32242101 PMCID: PMC7250874 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0825-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the great clinical response to the first-line chemotherapeutics, metastasis still happens among most of the ovarian cancer patients within 2 years. METHODS Using multiple human ovarian cancer cell lines, a transwell co-culture system of the carboplatin or VP-16-challenged feeder and receptor cells was established to demonstrate the chemotherapy-exacerbated migration. The migration and cancer stem cell (CSC)-like characteristics were determined by wound healing, transwell migration, flow cytometry and sphere formation. mRNA and protein expression were identified by qPCR and western blot. Bioinformatics analysis was used to investigate the differentially expressed genes. GLI1 expression in tissue samples was analysed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Chemotherapy was found to not only kill tumour cells, but also trigger the induction of CSC-like traits and the migration of ovarian cancer cells. EMT markers Vimentin and Snail in receptor cells were upregulated in the microenvironment of chemotherapy-challenged feeder cells. The transcription factor GLI1 was upregulated by chemotherapy in both clinical samples and cell lines. Follow-up functional experiments illustrated that inhibiting GLI1 reversed the chemotherapy-exacerbated CSC-like traits, including CD44 and CD133, as well as prevented the migration of ovarian cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS Targeting GLI1 may improve clinical benefits in the chemotherapy-exacerbated metastasis in ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Zhao
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Meihui He
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Lianzhi Cui
- grid.440230.1Clinical Laboratory, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, 130012 China
| | - Mohan Gao
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Min Zhang
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Fengli Yue
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Tongfei Shi
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Xuehan Yang
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Yue Pan
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Yong Jia
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dSchool of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Dan Shao
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China ,0000000419368729grid.21729.3fDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027 USA
| | - Jing Li
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Kan He
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
| | - Li Chen
- 0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dDepartment of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China ,0000 0004 1760 5735grid.64924.3dSchool of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 China
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Liu YC, Yeh CT, Lin KH. Cancer Stem Cell Functions in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061331. [PMID: 32466488 PMCID: PMC7349579 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality owing to resistance to traditional treatments and tumor recurrence after therapy, which leads to poor therapeutic outcomes. Cancer stem cells (CSC) are a small subset of tumor cells with the capability to influence self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenesis. A number of surface markers for liver cancer stem cell (LCSC) subpopulations (EpCAM, CD133, CD44, CD13, CD90, OV-6, CD47, and side populations) in HCC have been identified. LCSCs play critical roles in regulating HCC stemness, self-renewal, tumorigenicity, metastasis, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance via genetic mutations, epigenetic disruption, signaling pathway dysregulation, or alterations microenvironment. Accumulating studies have shown that biomarkers for LCSCs contribute to diagnosis and prognosis prediction of HCC, supporting their utility in clinical management and development of therapeutic strategies. Preclinical and clinical analyses of therapeutic approaches for HCC using small molecule inhibitors, oncolytic measles viruses, and anti-surface marker antibodies have demonstrated selective, efficient, and safe targeting of LCSC populations. The current review focuses on recent reports on the influence of LCSCs on HCC stemness, tumorigenesis, and multiple drug resistance (MDR), along with LCSC-targeted therapeutic strategies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chin Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Kwang-Huei Lin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +886-3-211-8263
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Lavin DP, Tiwari VK. Unresolved Complexity in the Gene Regulatory Network Underlying EMT. Front Oncol 2020; 10:554. [PMID: 32477926 PMCID: PMC7235173 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the process whereby a polarized epithelial cell ceases to maintain cell-cell contacts, loses expression of characteristic epithelial cell markers, and acquires mesenchymal cell markers and properties such as motility, contractile ability, and invasiveness. A complex process that occurs during development and many disease states, EMT involves a plethora of transcription factors (TFs) and signaling pathways. Whilst great advances have been made in both our understanding of the progressive cell-fate changes during EMT and the gene regulatory networks that drive this process, there are still gaps in our knowledge. Epigenetic modifications are dynamic, chromatin modifying enzymes are vast and varied, transcription factors are pleiotropic, and signaling pathways are multifaceted and rarely act alone. Therefore, it is of great importance that we decipher and understand each intricate step of the process and how these players at different levels crosstalk with each other to successfully orchestrate EMT. A delicate balance and fine-tuned cooperation of gene regulatory mechanisms is required for EMT to occur successfully, and until we resolve the unknowns in this network, we cannot hope to develop effective therapies against diseases that involve aberrant EMT such as cancer. In this review, we focus on data that challenge these unknown entities underlying EMT, starting with EMT stimuli followed by intracellular signaling through to epigenetic mechanisms and chromatin remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijay K. Tiwari
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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34
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Borah A, Pillai SC, Rochani AK, Palaninathan V, Nakajima Y, Maekawa T, Kumar DS. GANT61 and curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for GLI1 and PI3K/Akt-mediated inhibition in breast adenocarcinoma. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:185102. [PMID: 31952056 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab6d20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Current conventional mono and combination therapeutic strategies often fail to target breast cancer tissue effectively due to tumor heterogeneity comprising cancer stem cells (CSCs) and bulk tumor cells. This is further associated with drug toxicity and resistivity in the long run. A nanomedicine platform incorporating combination anti-cancer treatment might overcome these challenges and generate synergistic anti-cancer effects and also reduce drug toxicity. GANT61 and curcumin were co-delivered via polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) for the first time to elicit enhanced anti-tumor activity against heterogeneous breast cancer cell line MCF-7. We adopted the single-emulsion-solvent evaporation method for the preparation of the therapeutic NPs. The GANT61-curcumin PLGA NPs were characterized for their size, shape and chemical properties, and anti-cancer cell studies were undertaken for the plausible explanation of our hypothesis. The synthesized GANT61-curcumin PLGA NPs had a spherical, smooth surface morphology, and an average size of 347.4 d. nm. The NPs induced cytotoxic effects in breast cancer cells at a mid-minimal dosage followed by cell death via autophagy and apoptosis, reduction in their target protein expression along with compromising the self-renewal property of CSCs as revealed by their in vitro cell studies. The dual-drug NPs thus provide a novel perspective on aiding existing anti-cancer nanomedicine therapies to target a heterogeneous tumor mass effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Borah
- Bio-Nano Electronics Research Centre, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science, Toyo University, 2100, Kujirai, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-8585, Japan
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Khan MA, Srivastava SK, Zubair H, Patel GK, Arora S, Khushman M, Carter JE, Gorman GS, Singh S, Singh AP. Co-targeting of CXCR4 and hedgehog pathways disrupts tumor-stromal crosstalk and improves chemotherapeutic efficacy in pancreatic cancer. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:8413-8424. [PMID: 32358063 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.011748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains a therapeutic challenge because of its intrinsic and extrinsic chemoresistance mechanisms. Here, we report that C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and hedgehog pathways cooperate in PC chemoresistance via bidirectional tumor-stromal crosstalk. We show that when PC cells are co-cultured with pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) they are significantly more resistant to gemcitabine toxicity than those grown in monoculture. We also demonstrate that this co-culture-induced chemoresistance is abrogated by inhibition of the CXCR4 and hedgehog pathways. Similarly, the co-culture-induced altered expression of genes in PC cells associated with gemcitabine metabolism, antioxidant defense, and cancer stemness is also reversed upon CXCR4 and hedgehog inhibition. We have confirmed the functional impact of these genetic alterations by measuring gemcitabine metabolites, reactive oxygen species production, and sphere formation in vehicle- or gemcitabine-treated monocultures and co-cultured PC cells. Treatment of orthotopic pancreatic tumor-bearing mice with gemcitabine alone or in combination with a CXCR4 antagonist (AMD3100) or hedgehog inhibitor (GDC-0449) displays reduced tumor growth. Notably, we show that the triple combination treatment is the most effective, resulting in nearly complete suppression of tumor growth. Immunohistochemical analysis of Ki67 and cleaved caspase-3 confirm these findings from in vivo imaging and tumor measurements. Our findings provide preclinical and mechanistic evidence that a combination of gemcitabine treatment with targeted inhibition of both the CXCR4 and hedgehog pathways improves outcomes in a PC mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Aslam Khan
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Srivastava
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Haseeb Zubair
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Girijesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Sumit Arora
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Moh'd Khushman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - James Elliot Carter
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | | | - Seema Singh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Ajay Pratap Singh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama .,Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
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Zhou J, Wang H, Che J, Xu L, Yang W, Li Y, Zhou W. Silencing of microRNA-135b inhibits invasion, migration, and stemness of CD24 +CD44 + pancreatic cancer stem cells through JADE-1-dependent AKT/mTOR pathway. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:134. [PMID: 32351328 PMCID: PMC7183669 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent studies have emphasized determining the ability of microRNAs (miRNAs) as crucial regulators in the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer (PC), which continues to be one of the deadliest malignancies with few effective therapies. The study aimed to investigate the functional role of miR-135b and its associated mechanism to unravel the biological characteristics of tumor growth in pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs). Methods Microarray analyses were initially performed to identify the PC-related miRNAs and genes. The expression of miR-135b and PCSC markers in PC tissues and cells was determined by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis, respectively. The potential gene (JADE-1) that could bind to miR-135b was confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay. To investigate the tumorigenicity, migration, invasion, and stemness of PC cells, several gain-of-function and loss-of-function genetic experiments were conducted. Finally, tumor formation in nude mice was conducted to confirm the results in vivo. Results miR-135b was highly-expressed in PC tissues and PCSCs, which was identified to specifically target JADE-1. The overexpression of miR-135b promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCSC, inhibited cell apoptosis and increased the expression of stemness-related factors (Sox-2, Oct-4, Nanog, Aldh1, and Slug). Moreover, miR-135b could promote the expression of phosphorylated AKT and phosphorylated mTOR in the AKT/mTOR pathway. Additionally, miR-135b overexpression accelerated tumor growth in nude mice. Conclusions Taken together, the silencing of miR-135b promotes the JADE-1 expression, which inactivates the AKT/mTOR pathway and ultimately results in inhibition of self-renewal and tumor growth of PCSCs. Hence, this study contributes to understanding the role of miR-135 in PCSCs and its underlying molecular mechanisms to aid in the development of effective PC therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyang Zhou
- 1Class 182, Queen Mary School, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031 People's Republic of China
| | - Haihong Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhui Che
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
| | - Weizhong Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
| | - Yunjiu Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
| | - Wuyuan Zhou
- Department of Hepatopancreatobillary Surgery, Xuzhou City Cancer Hospital, No. 131 Huancheng Rd., Gulou District, Xuzhou, 221000 Jiangsu People's Republic of China
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Ke B, Wang XN, Liu N, Li B, Wang XJ, Zhang RP, Liang H. Sonic Hedgehog/Gli1 Signaling Pathway Regulates Cell Migration and Invasion via Induction of Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition in Gastric Cancer. J Cancer 2020; 11:3932-3943. [PMID: 32328197 PMCID: PMC7171499 DOI: 10.7150/jca.42900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The aberrant activation of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway is involved in progression of several types of cancer, including gastric cancer (GC). However, it remains uncertain whether it also plays a critical role in promoting cancer initiation and progression by inducing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in GC. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine whether the Shh pathway is involved in GC, and to investigate the function of the Shh pathway in the induction of EMT in GC. Materials and methods: The expression levels of Shh pathway members and EMT markers were examined in GC tissues by immunohistochemistry. The association between these factors and patient clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed. In addition, Gli-antagonist 61 (GANT61) was used to block Shh/Gli1 pathway activity, and recombinant Shh proteins (N-Shh) were used to activate the Shh pathway in GC cells. Wound healing and Transwell invasion and migration assays were performed to assess the effects of the Shh pathway on the migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro. Furthermore, western blot analysis was used to examine the changes in protein expression. Results: The results demonstrated that these Shh/Gli1 pathway members were upregulated in GC tissues, and that Gli1 upregulation was associated with tumor progression and a poor prognosis. Gli1 expression was negatively associated with E-cadherin (E-Cad) expression, and positively with Vimentin (VIM) expression in GC specimens. Further analysis revealed that when the Shh/Gli1 pathway was activated, the migratory and invasive abilities of GC cells were enhanced, and the expression levels of Gli1 and VIM were increased, while E-Cad expression was decreased. Opposite results were observed when the Shh/Gli1 pathway was blocked by GANT61. Conclusions: The present study indicated that the Shh/Gli1 pathway exhibits an abnormal activation pattern in GC with possible predictive and prognostic significance. The Shh/Gli1 pathway may promote the migratory and invasive potential of GC cells by inducing EMT. The Shh/Gli1 pathway can thus be considered as a potential therapeutic target for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Ke
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Na Wang
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Jun Wang
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Ru-Peng Zhang
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
| | - Han Liang
- Department of Gastric Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy of Tianjin, Tianjin, 300060, P.R. China
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Zhu Q, Shen Y, Chen X, He J, Liu J, Zu X. Self-Renewal Signalling Pathway Inhibitors: Perspectives on Therapeutic Approaches for Cancer Stem Cells. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:525-540. [PMID: 32021295 PMCID: PMC6970631 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s224465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor survival and prognosis of individuals with cancer are often attributed to tumour relapse and metastasis, which may be due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs have the characteristics of self-renewal, differentiation potential, high carcinogenicity, and drug resistance. In addition, CSCs exhibit many characteristics similar to those of embryonic or tissue stem cells while displaying persistent abnormal activation of self-renewal pathways associated with development and tissue homeostasis, including the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), TGF-β, JAK/STAT3, and NF-κB pathways. Therefore, we can eliminate CSCs by targeting these self-renewal pathways to constrain stem cell replication, survival and differentiation. At the same time, we cannot neglect the ping-pong effect of the tumour microenvironment, which releases cytokines and promotes self-renewal pathways in CSCs. Recently, meaningful progress has been made in the study of inhibitors of self-renewal pathways in tumours. This review primarily summarizes several representative and novel agents targeting these self-renewal signalling pathways and the tumour microenvironment and that represent a promising strategy for treating refractory and recurrent cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Zhu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Shen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiguang Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianghua Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuyu Zu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, People's Republic of China
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He S, Ma C, Zhang L, Bai J, Wang X, Zheng X, Zhang J, Xin W, Li Y, Jiang Y, Wang S, Zhu D. GLI1-mediated pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell pyroptosis contributes to hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2019; 318:L472-L482. [PMID: 31868509 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00405.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a clinically common malignant cardiovascular disease. Pyroptosis is a new form of inflammatory cell death that is involved in many disease processes. Glioma-associated oncogene family zinc finger 1 (GLI1) is a transcriptional activator that participates in many diseases, but its role has never been explored in inducing pyroptosis and the progress of PH. In this study, we used an animal model and cell molecular biology to determine the effect of GLI1 on chronic hypoxia-mediated PH progression and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) pyroptosis. The major findings of the present study are as follows: Hypoxia induced aberrant expression of GLI1. The inhibition of GLI1 attenuated hypoxia-induced PH and PASMC pyroptosis. Meanwhile, GLI1 enhanced apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) expression by binding with its promoter. GLI1 may promote PASMC pyroptosis through ASC to affect the progression of PH. These findings may identify novel targets for molecular therapy of PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu He
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Cui Ma
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixin Zhang
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China
| | - June Bai
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Junting Zhang
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Xin
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiying Li
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Sen Wang
- College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Daling Zhu
- Central Laboratory of Harbin Medical University (Daqing), Daqing, People's Republic of China.,College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China.,State Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Daqing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
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40
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Long non-coding RNA PVT1 encapsulated in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes promotes osteosarcoma growth and metastasis by stabilizing ERG and sponging miR-183-5p. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:9581-9596. [PMID: 31699956 PMCID: PMC6874467 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Exosomes secreted by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) promote osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration, while the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Since the long non-coding RNA PVT1 has been reported to be upregulated in osteosarcoma cells and contributes to its growth and metastasis, we aim to investigate whether BMSC-derived exosomes promote osteosarcoma growth and metastasis via transporting PVT1 into osteosarcoma cells. The PVT1 expression in BMSC-derived exosomes was markedly higher than that in osteosarcoma cell-derived exosomes. The co-culturing of BMSC-derived exosomes and osteosarcoma cells (Saos-2, MG-63, and MNNG/HOS cell lines) significantly raised PVT1 expression of osteosarcoma cells. The direct binding between PVT1 and the oncogenic protein ERG was confirmed using RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays, and the transported PVT1 promotes osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration via inhibiting degradation and ubiquitination of ERG. PVT1 also increased ERG expression through sponging miR-183-5p. In summary, our findings indicated that BMSC-derived exosomes encapsulate PVTl and transport it into osteosarcoma cells, and the transported PVT1 promotes tumor growth and metastasis by inhibiting ubiquitination and promoting expression of ERG in osteosarcoma cells. These data provide a novel insight into the mechanism of BMSC-derived exosomes in affecting osteosarcoma progression.
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Kowolik CM, Lin M, Xie J, Overman LE, Horne DA. Attenuation of hedgehog/GLI signaling by NT1721 extends survival in pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:431. [PMID: 31661013 PMCID: PMC6819529 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies due to frequent late diagnosis, aggressive tumor growth and metastasis formation. Continuously raising incidence rates of pancreatic cancer and a lack of significant improvement in survival rates over the past 30 years highlight the need for new therapeutic agents. Thus, new therapeutic agents and strategies are urgently needed to improve the outcome for patients with pancreatic cancer. Here, we evaluated the anti-tumor activity of a new natural product-based epidithiodiketopiperazine, NT1721, against pancreatic cancer. METHODS We characterized the anticancer efficacy of NT1721 in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines in vitro and in two orthotopic models. We also compared the effects of NT1721 to clinically used hedgehog inhibitors and the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine. The effect of NT1721 on hedgehog/GLI signaling was assessed by determining the expression of GLI and GLI target genes both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS NT1721 displayed IC50 values in the submicromolar range in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines, while largely sparing normal pancreatic epithelial cells. NT1721 attenuated hedgehog/GLI signaling through downregulation of GLI1/2 transcription factors and their downstream target genes, which reduced cell proliferation and invasion in vitro and significantly decreased tumor growth and liver metastasis in two preclinical orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic cancer. Importantly, treatment with NT1721 significantly improved survival times of mice with pancreatic cancer compared to the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine. CONCLUSIONS Favorable therapeutics properties, i.e. 10-fold lower IC50 values than clinically used hedgehog inhibitors (vismodegib, erismodegib), a 90% reduction in liver metastasis and significantly better survival times compared to the standard-of-care drug, gemcitabine, provide a rational for testing NT1721 in the clinic either as a single agent or possibly in combination with gemcitabine or other therapeutic agents in PDAC patients overexpressing GLI1/2. This could potentially result in promising new treatment options for patients suffering from this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M Kowolik
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Min Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Larry E Overman
- Department of Chemistry, 1102 Natural Sciences II, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-2025, USA
| | - David A Horne
- Department of Molecular Medicine, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
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Chen X, Li XF, Chen Y, Zhu S, Li HD, Chen SY, Wang JN, Pan XY, Bu FT, Huang C, Li J. Hesperetin derivative attenuates CCl 4-induced hepatic fibrosis and inflammation by Gli-1-dependent mechanisms. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 76:105838. [PMID: 31473406 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis, a common pathological feature and leading cause of various chronic liver diseases, still lacks effective therapy. Hesperetin derivative (HD) is a derivative of Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer isolated from the fruit peel of Citrusaurantium L. (Rutaceae). In the present study, we revealed the anti-fibrotic effects of HD in CCl4-induced mouse hepatic fibrosis model and in TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells, in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that HD prevented CCl4-induced liver injury and histological damage. Consistently, HD inhibited the up-regulation of liver fibrogenesis markers α-SMA, Col1α1, Col3α1 and TIMP-1 in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and suppressed inflammatory responses in primary liver macrophages from hepatic fibrosis mice. Furthermore, HD promoted the apoptosis of activated HSCs, a key step in the onset of fibrosis regression. Mechanistically, the Hedgehog pathway was involved in HD-treated hepatic fibrosis, and HD specifically contributed to attenuate the aberrant expression of Glioma associated oncogene-1 (Gli-1). Interestingly, blockade of Gli-1 removed the inhibitory effect of HD on activated HSCs, indicating that Gli-1 may play a pivotal role in mediating the anti-fibrotic effect of HD in hepatic fibrosis. Collectively, our results suggest that HD may be a potential anti-fibrotic Traditional Chinese Medicine monomer for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Sai Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hai-Di Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Si-Yu Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jia-Nan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xue-Yin Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fang-Tian Bu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China; Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, ILD-AMU, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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Wang F, Stappenbeck F, Parhami F. Inhibition of Hedgehog Signaling in Fibroblasts, Pancreatic, and Lung Tumor Cells by Oxy186, an Oxysterol Analogue with Drug-Like Properties. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050509. [PMID: 31137846 PMCID: PMC6562610 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The widespread involvement of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway in human malignancies has motivated the clinical development of Smoothened (Smo) antagonists, such as vismodegib and sonidegib. However, Smo antagonists have failed to benefit patients suffering from Hh pathway-dependent solid tumors, such as pancreatic, colorectal, or ovarian cancer. Hh-dependent cancers are often driven by activating mutations that occur downstream of Smo and directly activate the transcription factors known as glioma-associated oncogenes (Gli1-3). Hence, the direct targeting of Gli could be a more effective strategy for achieving disease modification compared to Smo antagonism. In this study, we report on the biological and pharmacological evaluation of Oxy186, a semisynthetic oxysterol analogue, as a novel inhibitor of Hh signaling acting downstream of Smo, with encouraging drug-like properties. Oxy186 exhibits strong inhibition of ligand-induced Hh signaling in NIH3T3-E1 fibroblasts, as well as in constitutively activated Hh signaling in Suppressor of Fused (Sufu) null mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells. Oxy186 also inhibits Gli1 transcriptional activity in NIH3T3-E1 cells expressing exogenous Gli1 and Gli-dependent reporter constructs. Furthermore, Oxy186 suppresses Hh signaling in PANC-1 cells, a human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor cell line, as well as PANC-1 cell proliferation in vitro, and in human lung cancer cell lines, A549 and H2039.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- MAX BioPharma Inc., 2870 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA.
| | - Frank Stappenbeck
- MAX BioPharma Inc., 2870 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA.
| | - Farhad Parhami
- MAX BioPharma Inc., 2870 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA.
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Xie H, Paradise BD, Ma WW, Fernandez-Zapico ME. Recent Advances in the Clinical Targeting of Hedgehog/GLI Signaling in Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:E394. [PMID: 31035664 PMCID: PMC6562674 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog/GLI signaling pathway plays an important role in normal embryonic tissue development and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various human cancers. In this review article, we summarize pre-clinical evidence supporting the suitability of targeting this signaling pathway in cancers. We review agents blocking both the ligand-dependent and ligand-independent cascades, and discuss the clinical evidence, which has led to the FDA approval of Hedgehog receptor Smoothened inhibitors, vismodegib, and sonidegib, in different malignancies. Finally, we provide an overview of published and ongoing clinical trial data on single agent or combination therapeutic strategies, targeting Hedgehog/GLI signaling pathway, in both advanced solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xie
- Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Brooke D Paradise
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA..
| | - Wen Wee Ma
- Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Martin E Fernandez-Zapico
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA..
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Riaz SK, Ke Y, Wang F, Kayani MA, Malik MFA. Influence of SHH/GLI1 axis on EMT mediated migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6620. [PMID: 31036836 PMCID: PMC6488587 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43093-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonic Hedgehog signaling is critical for breast morphogenesis and cancer. The present study was conducted to explore the influence of SHH/GLI1 axis on epithelial mesenchymal transition and invasion in breast cancer cells. SHH/GLI1 positive samples demonstrated high expression of Snail and Vimentin with relatively low expression of E-cadherin. Overexpression of Vimentin and Snail in SHH/GLI1 positive patients was also associated with poor overall survival. Interestingly, GANT61 (GLI1 inhibitor) exposure significantly reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis at 10 µM. Suppression of Hedgehog pathway either by CRISPR mediated SHH knock out or GANT61 altered regulation of EMT markers in breast cancer cells. Moreover, in-activation of SHH/GLI1 axis also significantly restricted cell migration and invasiveness. These findings suggest that targeting SHH/GLI1 axis alters expression of EMT markers and abrogates neoplastic invasion in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Kiran Riaz
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yuepeng Ke
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Fen Wang
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
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Ghanbari A, Cheraghzadeh Z, Mahmoudi R, Zibara K, Hosseini E. GLI inhibitors overcome Erlotinib resistance in human pancreatic cancer cells by modulating E-cadherin. J Chemother 2019; 31:141-149. [PMID: 30983542 DOI: 10.1080/1120009x.2019.1584422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway, including its end effector GLI1, can reverse epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) which plays an important role in drug resistance of pancreatic cancer cells to Erlotinib (ETB). This study investigated the effect of GLI inhibitors Forskolin (FSK), GANT-61 (GNT), and Arsenic trioxide (ATX) on suppressing the resistance of pancreatic cancer cells to ETB. The effect of GLI inhibitors was evaluated by measuring mRNA expression levels of EMT factors using quantitative RT-PCR. Immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry were used to assess E-cadherin (E-Cad) and GLI1 protein levels. MTT and apoptosis assays were used to evaluate the synergistic effects for the combination treatment of each GLI inhibitor with ETB. Pancreatic cancer cells PANC-1 treated by GNT showed the highest significant reduction in mRNA levels of GLI1 and other EMT pathway genes. Moreover, GNT was able to upregulate E-Cad and downregulate GLI1 proteins, more than FSK, while ATX had no effect. Apoptosis levels of PANC-1 cells following treatment with LD30 concentrations of FSK, GNT, or ATX, showed 57%, 62% and 67%, respectively, in comparison to ETB (∼48%). Importantly, combination treatments of ETB with either FSK, GNT, or ATX demonstrated a significant increase in apoptotic cells reaching 61% (ETB + FSK), 80% (ETB + GNT) or 88% (ETB + ATX). FSK did not have much effect on the drug resistance of PANC-1 cells to ETB. However, GNT, but more effectively ATX, were able to reduce the drug resistance of this cell line to ETB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Ghanbari
- a Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Yasuj University of Medical Sciences , Yasuj , Iran
| | - Zeinab Cheraghzadeh
- a Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Yasuj University of Medical Sciences , Yasuj , Iran
| | - Reza Mahmoudi
- a Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Yasuj University of Medical Sciences , Yasuj , Iran
| | - Kazem Zibara
- b PRASE, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences-I , Lebanese University , Beirut , Lebanon
| | - Ebrahim Hosseini
- a Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Yasuj University of Medical Sciences , Yasuj , Iran
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Qin S, Sun D, Li X, Kong F, Yu Q, Hua H, Zheng K, Tang R. GANT61 alleviates arthritic symptoms by targeting fibroblast-like synoviocytes in CIA rats. J Orthop Sci 2019; 24:353-360. [PMID: 30268354 DOI: 10.1016/j.jos.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have identified that the fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) exhibited tumor-like characteristics and was the key factor in the pathogenesis of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). GANT61, an antagonist of the sonic hedgehog pathway, has been verified with inhibitory effect on many cancers. Here we investigated the effect of GANT61 on FLS and the development of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). METHODS 40 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal, CIA, CIA+10 mg/kg GANT61 and CIA+20 mg/kg GANT61. CIA was induced in rat with collagen injecting. The GANT61 was administered by intraperitoneal injection every 2 days for 3 weeks. The CIA model was identified with the paw swelling, arthritis score and the pathologic changes in joint. The FLS of different group were primary cultured. The proliferative capacity of FLS was detecteded via Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) method, and the apoptosis was detecteded by flow cytometry. The Bcl-2, Bax, Caspases3 and cleaved Caspases3 in synovium and FLS were detecteded by Western Blot. RESULTS The 20 mg/kg GANT61 treatment reduced the incidence of CIA and relieved the arthritis symptoms in CIA rats. The Bcl-2 was upregulated and the Bax was downregulated in the CIA rats synovium. The 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg GANT61 diminished the Bcl-2 expression, 20 mg/kg GANT61 increased the Bax and activated the Caspases3 in the CIA synovium. The proliferation of CIA-FLS was significantly higher and the apoptosis of the CIA-FLS was lower than that of the control group. The 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg GANT61 treatment can reduce cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by diminishing Bcl-2 and increasing the Bax in CIA-FLS. CONCLUSIONS The GANT61 inhibit the proliferation of FLS and alleviated the arthritic symptoms in CIA rats, this implied the GANT61 may be recommended as a possible candidate for the therapy of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suping Qin
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Dexu Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Fanyun Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Qian Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Hui Hua
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China.
| | - Renxian Tang
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China.
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48
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Girardi D, Barrichello A, Fernandes G, Pereira A. Targeting the Hedgehog Pathway in Cancer: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020153. [PMID: 30759860 PMCID: PMC6406365 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog pathway (HhP) plays an important role in normal embryonic development and its abnormal function has been linked to a variety of neoplasms. Recently, the complex mechanisms involved in this pathway have been deciphered and the cross talks with other important pathways involved in carcinogenesis have been characterized. This knowledge has led to the development of targeted therapies against key components of HhP, which culminated in the approval of vismodegib for the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma in 2012. Since then, other compounds have been developed and evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies with interesting results. Today, several medications against components of the HhP have demonstrated clinical activity as monotherapies and in combination with cytotoxic treatment or other targeted therapies against mitogenic pathways that are linked to the HhP. This review aims to clarify the mechanism of the HhP and the complex crosstalk with others pathways involved in carcinogenesis and to discuss both the evidence associated with the growing number of medications and combined therapies addressing this pathway and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Girardi
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Adriana Barrichello
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Fernandes
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Allan Pereira
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
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49
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Ma Y, Yu W, Shrivastava A, Srivastava RK, Shankar S. Inhibition of pancreatic cancer stem cell characteristics by α-Mangostin: Molecular mechanisms involving Sonic hedgehog and Nanog. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:2719-2730. [PMID: 30712329 PMCID: PMC6433724 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The current investigation was intended to elucidate the molecular mechanism of α‐Mangostin in the regulation of pancreatic cancer stem cell (CSC) characteristics. Here, we demonstrate that α‐Mangostin inhibited cell proliferation in pancreatic CSCs and cancer cell lines while it showed no effect on human pancreatic normal ductal epithelial cells. Also, α‐Mangostin inhibited colony formation and induced apoptosis in these cells. Further, α‐Mangostin inhibited the self‐renewal capacity of CSCs isolated from human primary tumours and KrasG12D mice. Furthermore, α‐Mangostin inhibited the invasive and metastatic ability of pancreatic CSCs by suppressing the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) via up‐regulation of E‐cadherin and down‐regulation of mesenchymal phenotype by inhibiting N‐cadherin, Snail and Slug expression. Interestingly, the pluripotency maintaining factors and CSC markers were inhibited by α‐Mangostin thus suggesting that α‐Mangostin can target CSCs to inhibit pancreatic cancer effectively. Gli signalling plays a crucial role in the self‐renewal and pluripotency of CSCs. α‐Mangostin inhibited the Gli transcription and the expression of Gli target genes (Nanog, Oct4, c‐Myc, Sox‐2 and KLF4) in CSCs. Using ChIP assay, we demonstrated that Nanog could directly bind to promoters of Cdk2, Cdk6, FGF4, c‐Myc and α‐Mangostin inhibited Nanog binding to these promoters. Conversely, the inhibitory effects of the α‐Mangostin on CSC proliferation and Gli or Nanog transcription and their targets were abrogated by either enforced activation of sonic hedgehog (Shh) or by the overexpression of Nanog. Taken together, our studies suggest that α‐Mangostin may act as Gli inhibitor and establishes the pre‐clinical significance of α‐Mangostin for the prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Ma
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Wei Yu
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Anju Shrivastava
- Department of Oncology, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Rakesh K Srivastava
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Sharmila Shankar
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
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50
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Fu J, Shrivastava A, Shrivastava SK, Srivastava RK, Shankar S. Triacetyl resveratrol upregulates miRNA‑200 and suppresses the Shh pathway in pancreatic cancer: A potential therapeutic agent. Int J Oncol 2019; 54:1306-1316. [PMID: 30720134 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Trans‑3,4',5‑trihydroxystilbene (resveratrol) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic phytoalexin with marked anticancer activities, and is mainly found in grapes, berries and peanuts. However, due to a low bioavailability, it has not progressed to clinical practice for cancer treatment. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to examine the anticancer activities of the resveratrol derivative, triacetyl resveratrol (TCRV), in pancreatic cancer cells. Apoptosis was measured by fluorescence‑activated cell sorting and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)‑mediated dUTP nick‑end labeling assays. Gene expression was measured by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. TCRV inhibited colony formation and induced apoptosis through caspase‑3 activation in human pancreatic cancer AsPC‑1 and PANC‑1 cells, whereas it exerted no effect on human pancreatic normal ductal epithelial cells (HPNE). TCRV inhibited epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) by upregulating the expression of E‑cadherin and suppressing the expression of N‑cadherin and the transcription factors, Snail, Slug and Zeb1. TCRV inhibited Zeb1 3'UTR‑luciferase activity through the upregulation of microRNA (miR)‑200 family members. The inhibitory effects of TCRV on pancreatic cancer cell migration and invasion were counteracted by anti‑miR‑200 family members. The inhibitory effects of TCRV on EMT and the induction of apoptosis were exerted through the suppression of the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway, and through the modulation of cyclin D1 and Bcl‑2 expression. The hyperactivation of the Shh pathway by either Shh protein or Gli1 overexpression abrogated the biological effects of TCRV. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate that TCRV inhibits pancreatic cancer growth and EMT by targeting the Shh pathway and its downstream signaling mediators. TCRV inhibited EMT through the upregulation of miR‑200 family members. Since TCRV effectively inhibited the growth of human pancreatic cancer cells by modulating the Shh pathway, without affecting the growth of HPNE cells, our findings suggest the possible use of TCRV as a promising candidate for the treatment and/or prevention of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsheng Fu
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, P.R. China
| | - Anju Shrivastava
- St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Sushant K Shrivastava
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India
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