1
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Wang L, Pattnaik A, Sahoo SS, Stone EG, Zhuang Y, Benton A, Tajmul M, Chakravorty S, Dhawan D, Nguyen MA, Sirit I, Mundy K, Ricketts CJ, Hadisurya M, Baral G, Tinsley SL, Anderson NL, Hoda S, Briggs SD, Kaimakliotis HZ, Allen-Petersen BL, Tao WA, Linehan WM, Knapp DW, Hanna JA, Olson MR, Afzali B, Kazemian M. Unbiased discovery of cancer pathways and therapeutics using Pathway Ensemble Tool and Benchmark. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7288. [PMID: 39179644 PMCID: PMC11343859 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51859-9] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Correctly identifying perturbed biological pathways is a critical step in uncovering basic disease mechanisms and developing much-needed therapeutic strategies. However, whether current tools are optimal for unbiased discovery of relevant pathways remains unclear. Here, we create "Benchmark" to critically evaluate existing tools and find that most function sub-optimally. We thus develop the "Pathway Ensemble Tool" (PET), which outperforms existing methods. Deploying PET, we identify prognostic pathways across 12 cancer types. PET-identified prognostic pathways offer additional insights, with genes within these pathways serving as reliable biomarkers for clinical outcomes. Additionally, normalizing these pathways using drug repurposing strategies represents therapeutic opportunities. For example, the top predicted repurposed drug for bladder cancer, a CDK2/9 inhibitor, represses cell growth in vitro and in vivo. We anticipate that using Benchmark and PET for unbiased pathway discovery will offer additional insights into disease mechanisms across a spectrum of diseases, enabling biomarker discovery and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luopin Wang
- Department of Computer Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Aryamav Pattnaik
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Subhransu Sekhar Sahoo
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Ella G Stone
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Yuxin Zhuang
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Annaleigh Benton
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Md Tajmul
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Immunoregulation Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Srishti Chakravorty
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Deepika Dhawan
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - My An Nguyen
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Isabella Sirit
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Kyle Mundy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Christopher J Ricketts
- Urologic Oncology Branch of Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marco Hadisurya
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Garima Baral
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Samantha L Tinsley
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Nicole L Anderson
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Smriti Hoda
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Scott D Briggs
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Brittany L Allen-Petersen
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - W Andy Tao
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - W Marston Linehan
- Urologic Oncology Branch of Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Deborah W Knapp
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jason A Hanna
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Matthew R Olson
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Behdad Afzali
- Immunoregulation Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Majid Kazemian
- Department of Computer Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Xu J, Liu K, Gong Z, Liu J, Lin H, Lin B, Li W, Zhu M, Li M. IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway induces prostate apoptosis response protein-4(PAR-4) to stimulate malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Ann Hepatol 2024; 29:101538. [PMID: 39147129 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2024.101538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Prostate apoptosis response protein-4 (PAR-4) is considered a tumor suppressor. However, the role of PAR-4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has rarely been reported. The study explores the role of PAR-4 in the malignant behaviors of HCC cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS TCGA database was applied to analyze the expression of PAR-4 in HCC. Evaluated PAR-4 relationship with clinical parameters and prognosis by tissue microarray; expression of STAT3, p-STAT3, Src and Ras was detected by Western blotting or laser confocal microscopy. Cell scratch and flow cytometry assays were used to observe IL-6 regulation of the malignant behaviors of HCC cells. The tumorigenic potential of HCC cells in vivo was evaluated in a nude mouse tumor model. RESULTS Analysis indicated that the expression of PAR-4 in HCC tissues was significantly higher than that in normal liver tissues; and PAR-4 interacted with STAT3. KEGG analysis showed that PAR-4 plays a role in the Janus kinase (JAK)/STAT signaling pathway. The positive expression rate of PAR-4 in HCC tissues was significantly higher than that in adjacent tissues. Positive correlation between IL-6 and PAR-4 expression in the HCC tissues. Exogenous IL-6 significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of HCC cells and up-regulated the expression of PAR-4 and p-STAT3 in HCC cells. Interference of the expression of PAR-4 could reduce the malignant behaviors of HCC cells and inhibit tumorigenesis in a nude mouse tumor model. CONCLUSIONS PAR-4 expression is positively correlated with HCC; PAR-4 promotes malignant behavior of HCC cells mediated by the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junnv Xu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China; Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311,Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Zhixun Gong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Jinchen Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Haifeng Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311,Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China.
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 571199, Hainan Province, PR China; Department of Medical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311,Hainan Province, PR China; Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical University, Hiakou 570102, Hainan Province, PR China.
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3
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Xue Y, Ruan Y, Wang Y, Xiao P, Xu J. Signaling pathways in liver cancer: pathogenesis and targeted therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2024; 5:20. [PMID: 38816668 PMCID: PMC11139849 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-024-00184-0] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide with high incidence and mortality rates. Due to its subtle onset, liver cancer is commonly diagnosed at a late stage when surgical interventions are no longer feasible. This situation highlights the critical role of systemic treatments, including targeted therapies, in bettering patient outcomes. Despite numerous studies on the mechanisms underlying liver cancer, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the only widely used clinical inhibitors, represented by sorafenib, whose clinical application is greatly limited by the phenomenon of drug resistance. Here we show an in-depth discussion of the signaling pathways frequently implicated in liver cancer pathogenesis and the inhibitors targeting these pathways under investigation or already in use in the management of advanced liver cancer. We elucidate the oncogenic roles of these pathways in liver cancer especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as the current state of research on inhibitors respectively. Given that TKIs represent the sole class of targeted therapeutics for liver cancer employed in clinical practice, we have particularly focused on TKIs and the mechanisms of the commonly encountered phenomena of its resistance during HCC treatment. This necessitates the imperative development of innovative targeted strategies and the urgency of overcoming the existing limitations. This review endeavors to shed light on the utilization of targeted therapy in advanced liver cancer, with a vision to improve the unsatisfactory prognostic outlook for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangtao Xue
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yeling Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Yali Wang
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Junjie Xu
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Innovation and Application of Minimally Invasive Instruments, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang Minimal Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Research Center of Severe Hepatobiliary Disease, Zhejiang Research and Development Engineering Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Technology and Equipment, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
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4
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Jia J, Zhou X, Chu Q. Mechanisms and therapeutic prospect of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in liver cancer. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-04983-5. [PMID: 38519710 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-04983-5] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer (LC) poses a significant global health challenge due to its high incidence and poor prognosis. Current systemic treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and immunotherapy, have shown limited effectiveness for advanced LC patients. Moreover, owing to the heterogeneous nature of LC, it is crucial to uncover more in-depth pathogenic mechanisms and develop effective treatments to address the limitations of the existing therapeutic modalities. Increasing evidence has revealed the crucial role of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway in the pathogenesis of LC. The specific mechanisms driving the JAK-STAT pathway activation in LC, participate in a variety of malignant biological processes, including cell differentiation, evasion, anti-apoptosis, immune escape, and treatment resistance. Both preclinical and clinical investigations on the JAK-STAT pathway inhibitors have exhibited potential in LC treatment, thereby opening up avenues for the development of more targeted therapeutic strategies for LC. In this study, we provide an overview of the JAK-STAT pathway, delving into the composition, activation, and dynamic interplay within the pathway. Additionally, we focus on the molecular mechanisms driving the aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathway in LC. Furthermore, we summarize the latest advancements in targeting the JAK-STAT pathway for LC treatment. The insights presented in this review aim to underscore the necessity of research into the JAK-STAT signaling pathway as a promising avenue for LC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- JunJun Jia
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xuelian Zhou
- Division of Endocrinology, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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5
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Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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6
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Guo YW, Zhu L, Duan YT, Hu YQ, Li LB, Fan WJ, Song FH, Cai YF, Liu YY, Zheng GW, Ge MH. Ruxolitinib induces apoptosis and pyroptosis of anaplastic thyroid cancer via the transcriptional inhibition of DRP1-mediated mitochondrial fission. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:125. [PMID: 38336839 PMCID: PMC10858168 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06511-1] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) has a 100% disease-specific mortality rate. The JAK1/2-STAT3 pathway presents a promising target for treating hematologic and solid tumors. However, it is unknown whether the JAK1/2-STAT3 pathway is activated in ATC, and the anti-cancer effects and the mechanism of action of its inhibitor, ruxolitinib (Ruxo, a clinical JAK1/2 inhibitor), remain elusive. Our data indicated that the JAK1/2-STAT3 signaling pathway is significantly upregulated in ATC tumor tissues than in normal thyroid and papillary thyroid cancer tissues. Apoptosis and GSDME-pyroptosis were observed in ATC cells following the in vitro and in vivo administration of Ruxo. Mechanistically, Ruxo suppresses the phosphorylation of STAT3, resulting in the repression of DRP1 transactivation and causing mitochondrial fission deficiency. This deficiency is essential for activating caspase 9/3-dependent apoptosis and GSDME-mediated pyroptosis within ATC cells. In conclusion, our findings indicate DRP1 is directly regulated and transactivated by STAT3; this exhibits a novel and crucial aspect of JAK1/2-STAT3 on the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics. In ATC, the transcriptional inhibition of DRP1 by Ruxo hampered mitochondrial division and triggered apoptosis and GSDME-pyroptosis through caspase 9/3-dependent mechanisms. These results provide compelling evidence for the potential therapeutic effectiveness of Ruxo in treating ATC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Wen Guo
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui Central Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang, 323000, China
| | - Yan-Ting Duan
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Qun Hu
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Le-Bao Li
- School of Information Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310018, China
| | - Wei-Jiao Fan
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Fa-Huan Song
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ye-Feng Cai
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yun-Ye Liu
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Guo-Wan Zheng
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Ming-Hua Ge
- Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Center, Cancer Center, Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Cancer of Zhejiang Province, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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7
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Luo X, He X, Zhang X, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Shi Y, Hua S. Hepatocellular carcinoma: signaling pathways, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e474. [PMID: 38318160 PMCID: PMC10838672 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer with a high mortality rate. It is regarded as a significant public health issue because of its complicated pathophysiology, high metastasis, and recurrence rates. There are no obvious symptoms in the early stage of HCC, which often leads to delays in diagnosis. Traditional treatment methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and interventional therapies have limited therapeutic effects for HCC patients with recurrence or metastasis. With the development of molecular biology and immunology, molecular signaling pathways and immune checkpoint were identified as the main mechanism of HCC progression. Targeting these molecules has become a new direction for the treatment of HCC. At present, the combination of targeted drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors is the first choice for advanced HCC patients. In this review, we mainly focus on the cutting-edge research of signaling pathways and corresponding targeted therapy and immunotherapy in HCC. It is of great significance to comprehensively understand the pathogenesis of HCC, search for potential therapeutic targets, and optimize the treatment strategies of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Luo
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and TreatmentZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xin He
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xingmei Zhang
- Department of NeurobiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Yuzhe Zhang
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Yusheng Shi
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Shengni Hua
- Department of Radiation OncologyZhuhai People's HospitalZhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan UniversityZhuhaiChina
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8
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Wei XH, Liu YY. Potential applications of JAK inhibitors, clinically approved drugs against autoimmune diseases, in cancer therapy. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1326281. [PMID: 38235120 PMCID: PMC10792058 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1326281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in immunoregulation may lead to both cancer and autoimmune diseases. Many therapeutic drugs for autoimmune diseases also display anti-tumor efficacy. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathways are involved in the secretion of more than 50 distinct cytokines, which have critical roles in inducing autoimmune diseases and tumorigenesis. Thus, Janus kinases have become classical immunotherapeutic targets for immune disease. More than 70 Janus kinase inhibitors have been approved as immunomodulatory drugs for clinical use, of which 12 are used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This systematic review aims to elucidate the anti-tumor role of clinically approved Janus kinase inhibitors that were primarily designed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and their potential for clinical translation as cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Huan Wei
- Respiratory and Critical Care Department, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Oncology Department, People’s Hospital of Peixian, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Respiratory and Critical Care Department, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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9
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Nenu I, Toadere TM, Topor I, Țichindeleanu A, Bondor DA, Trella ȘE, Sparchez Z, Filip GA. Interleukin-6 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Dualistic Point of View. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2623. [PMID: 37892997 PMCID: PMC10603956 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a pressing health concern, demanding a deep understanding of various mediators' roles in its development for therapeutic progress. Notably, interleukin-6 (IL-6) has taken center stage in investigations due to its intricate and context-dependent functions. This review delves into the dual nature of IL-6 in HCC, exploring its seemingly contradictory roles as both a promoter and an inhibitor of disease progression. We dissect the pro-tumorigenic effects of IL-6, including its impact on tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Concurrently, we examine its anti-tumorigenic attributes, such as its role in immune response activation, cellular senescence induction, and tumor surveillance. Through a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interactions between IL-6 and the tumor microenvironment, this review highlights the need for a nuanced comprehension of IL-6 signaling in HCC. It underscores the importance of tailored therapeutic strategies that consider the dynamic stages and diverse surroundings within the tumor microenvironment. Future research directions aimed at unraveling the multifaceted mechanisms of IL-6 in HCC hold promise for developing more effective treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iuliana Nenu
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Prof. Dr. O. Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Teodora Maria Toadere
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioan Topor
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andra Țichindeleanu
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniela Andreea Bondor
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Șerban Ellias Trella
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Zeno Sparchez
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Prof. Dr. O. Fodor" Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriela Adriana Filip
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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10
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Qureshy Z, Li H, Zeng Y, Rivera J, Cheng N, Peterson CN, Kim MO, Ryan WR, Ha PK, Bauman JE, Wang SJ, Long SR, Johnson DE, Grandis JR. STAT3 Activation as a Predictive Biomarker for Ruxolitinib Response in Head and Neck Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:4737-4746. [PMID: 35929989 PMCID: PMC10024606 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-0744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Increased activity of STAT3 is associated with progression of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Upstream activators of STAT3, such as JAKs, represent potential targets for therapy of solid tumors, including HNSCC. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of ruxolitinib, a clinical JAK1/2 inhibitor, in HNSCC preclinical models, including patient-derived xenografts (PDX) from patients treated on a window-of-opportunity trial. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN HNSCC cell lines were treated with ruxolitinib, and the impact on activated STAT3 levels, cell growth, and colony formation was assessed. PDXs were generated from patients with HNSCC who received a brief course of neoadjuvant ruxolitinib on a clinical trial. The impact of ruxolitinib on tumor growth and STAT3 activation was assessed. RESULTS Ruxolitinib inhibited STAT3 activation, cellular growth, and colony formation of HNSCC cell lines. Ruxolitinib treatment of mice bearing an HNSCC cell line-derived xenograft significantly inhibited tumor growth compared with vehicle-treated controls. The response of HNSCC PDXs derived from patients on the clinical trial mirrored the responses seen in the neoadjuvant setting. Baseline active STAT3 (pSTAT3) and total STAT3 levels were lower, and ruxolitinib inhibited STAT3 activation in a PDX from a patient whose disease was stable on ruxolitinib, compared with a PDX from a patient whose disease progressed on ruxolitinib and where ruxolitinib treatment had minimal impact on STAT3 activation. CONCLUSIONS Ruxolitinib exhibits antitumor effects in HNSCC preclinical models. Baseline pSTAT3 or total STAT3 levels in the tumor may serve as predictive biomarkers to identify patients most likely to respond to ruxolitinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoya Qureshy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Yan Zeng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jose Rivera
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Ning Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Christopher N Peterson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Mi-Ok Kim
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - William R Ryan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Patrick K Ha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Julie E Bauman
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Steven J Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Steven R Long
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Daniel E Johnson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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11
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Hashimoto S, Hashimoto A, Muromoto R, Kitai Y, Oritani K, Matsuda T. Central Roles of STAT3-Mediated Signals in Onset and Development of Cancers: Tumorigenesis and Immunosurveillance. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162618. [PMID: 36010693 PMCID: PMC9406645 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the time of Rudolf Virchow in the 19th century, it has been well-known that cancer-associated inflammation contributes to tumor initiation and progression. However, it remains unclear whether a collapse of the balance between the antitumor immune response via the immunological surveillance system and protumor immunity due to cancer-related inflammation is responsible for cancer malignancy. The majority of inflammatory signals affect tumorigenesis by activating signal transducer and activation of transcription 3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor-κB. Persistent STAT3 activation in malignant cancer cells mediates extremely widespread functions, including cell growth, survival, angiogenesis, and invasion and contributes to an increase in inflammation-associated tumorigenesis. In addition, intracellular STAT3 activation in immune cells causes suppressive effects on antitumor immunity and leads to the differentiation and mobilization of immature myeloid-derived cells and tumor-associated macrophages. In many cancer types, STAT3 does not directly rely on its activation by oncogenic mutations but has important oncogenic and malignant transformation-associated functions in both cancer and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). We have reported a series of studies aiming towards understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the proliferation of various types of tumors involving signal-transducing adaptor protein-2 as an adaptor molecule that modulates STAT3 activity, and we recently found that AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 5a functions as an mRNA stabilizer that orchestrates an immunosuppressive TME in malignant mesenchymal tumors. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the functional role of STAT3 in tumor progression and introduce novel molecular mechanisms of cancer development and malignant transformation involving STAT3 activation that we have identified to date. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies for cancer that target the signaling pathway to augment STAT3 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Hashimoto
- Division of Molecular Psychoimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.M.)
| | - Ari Hashimoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Ryuta Muromoto
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kitai
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Kenji Oritani
- Department of Hematology, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita 286-8686, Japan
| | - Tadashi Matsuda
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.M.)
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12
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Masuzaki R, Kanda T, Sasaki R, Matsumoto N, Nirei K, Ogawa M, Karp SJ, Moriyama M, Kogure H. Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102549. [PMID: 35626153 PMCID: PMC9139988 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy worldwide. The HCC generally develops in the liver of patients already suffering from chronic liver disease. There have been significant advances in both the curative and palliative treatment of HCC. Although liver resection is a curative treatment for HCC, its indication is often limited due to an impaired liver function reservoir. There is still a need to understand how to control liver regeneration after resection and find better cancer immunotherapy and anticancer drugs for advanced HCC. Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) negatively regulate cytokine signaling related to cell proliferation, differentiation, and immune response; therefore, SOCS are thought to play an important role in HCC development and liver regeneration. Abstract Cytokines are secreted soluble glycoproteins that regulate cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins negatively regulate cytokine signaling and form a classical negative feedback loop in the signaling pathways. There are eight members of the SOCS family. The SOCS proteins are all comprised of a loosely conserved N-terminal domain, a central Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, and a highly conserved SOCS box at the C-terminus. The role of SOCS proteins has been implicated in the regulation of cytokines and growth factors in liver diseases. The SOCS1 and SOCS3 proteins are involved in immune response and inhibit protective interferon signaling in viral hepatitis. A decreased expression of SOCS3 is associated with advanced stage and poor prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). DNA methylations of SOCS1 and SOCS3 are found in HCC. Precise regulation of liver regeneration is influenced by stimulatory and inhibitory factors after partial hepatectomy (PH), in particular, SOCS2 and SOCS3 are induced at an early time point after PH. Evidence supporting the important role of SOCS signaling during liver regeneration also supports a role of SOCS signaling in HCC. Immuno-oncology drugs are now the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. The SOCS can be potential targets for HCC in terms of cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and immune response. In this literature review, we summarize recent findings of the SOCS family proteins related to HCC and liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Masuzaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3972-8111
| | - Tatsuo Kanda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Reina Sasaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Naoki Matsumoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Kazushige Nirei
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Masahiro Ogawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Seth J. Karp
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
| | - Mitsuhiko Moriyama
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
| | - Hirofumi Kogure
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; (T.K.); (R.S.); (N.M.); (K.N.); (M.O.); (M.M.); (H.K.)
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13
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A Case of Rapidly Progressing Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Administration of JAK Inhibitors to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. Case Rep Rheumatol 2022; 2022:6852189. [PMID: 35391896 PMCID: PMC8983253 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6852189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of rapidly progressing hepatocellular carcinoma after administration of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors to treat rheumatoid arthritis. A 76-year-old man was referred to our Department for pain in multiple joints and was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Blood tests revealed elevated hepatobiliary enzymes, but various tests revealed no signs suggestive of malignancy. He took baricitinib for 2 months followed by tofacitinib for 4 months. After that, he was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma based on imaging findings and elevated tumor markers. This case showed the possibility of a causal relationship between JAK inhibitors and malignancy.
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14
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Effects of Ruxolitinib and Calcitriol Combination Treatment on Various Molecular Subtypes of Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052535. [PMID: 35269680 PMCID: PMC8910493 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The anticancer effects of ruxolitinib and calcitriol against breast cancer were reported previously. However, the effect of ruxolitinib and calcitriol combination treatment on various molecular subtypes of breast cancer remains unexplored. In this study, we used MCF-7, SKBR3, and MDA-MB-468 cells to investigate the effect of ruxolitinib and calcitriol combination treatment on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and cell signaling markers, in vitro and in vivo. Our results revealed the synergistic anticancer effect of ruxolitinib and calcitriol combination treatment in SKBR3 and MDA-MB-468 cells, but not in MCF-7 cells in vitro, via cell proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, and the alteration of cell signaling protein expression, including cell cycle-related (cyclin D1, CDK1, CDK4, p21, and p27), apoptosis-related (c-caspase and c-PARP), and cell proliferation-related (c-Myc, p-p53, and p-JAK2) proteins. Furthermore, in the MDA-MB-468 xenograft mouse model, we demonstrated the synergistic antitumor effect of ruxolitinib and calcitriol combination treatment, including the alteration of c-PARP, cyclin D1, and c-Myc expression, without significant drug toxicity. The combination exhibited a synergistic effect in HER2-enriched and triple-negative breast cancer subtypes. In conclusion, our results suggest different effects of the combination treatment of ruxolitinib and calcitriol depending on the molecular subtype of breast cancer.
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15
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Xu J, Lin H, Wu G, Zhu M, Li M. IL-6/STAT3 Is a Promising Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:760971. [PMID: 34976809 PMCID: PMC8714735 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.760971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor of which the occurrence and development, the tumorigenicity of HCC is involving in multistep and multifactor interactions. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional inflammatory cytokine, has increased expression in HCC patients and is closely related to the occurrence of HCC and prognosis. IL-6 plays a role by binding to the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and then triggering the Janus kinase (JAK) associated with the receptor, stimulating phosphorylation and activating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to initiate downstream signals, participating in the processes of anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of cancer cells. IL-6/STAT3 signal axes elicit an immunosuppressive in tumor microenvironment, it is important to therapy HCC by blocking the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Recent, some inhibitors of IL-6/STAT3 have been development, such as S31-201 or IL-6 neutralizing monoclonal antibody (IL-6 mAb), Madindoline A (Inhibits the dimerization of IL-6/IL-6R/gpl30 trimeric complexes), C188-9 and Curcumin (Inhibits STAT3 phosphorylation), etc. for treatment of cancers. Overall, consideration of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway, and its role in the carcinogenesis and progression of HCC will contribute to the development of potential drugs for targeting treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junnv Xu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Haifeng Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Gang Wu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
- Institution of Tumour, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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16
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Zhou G, Da Won Bae S, Nguyen R, Huo X, Han S, Zhang Z, Hebbard L, Duan W, Eslam M, Liddle C, Yuen L, Lam V, Qiao L, George J. An aptamer-based drug delivery agent (CD133-apt-Dox) selectively and effectively kills liver cancer stem-like cells. Cancer Lett 2020; 501:124-132. [PMID: 33352247 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer has no effective therapies, hence a poor survival. Cancer stem-like cells not only contribute to cancer initiation and progression, but also to drug resistance, cancer metastasis, and eventually treatment failure. Hence, any approaches that can effectively kill cancer stem-like cells hold a great potential for cancer treatment. CD133 is a robust marker for liver cancer stem-like cells. We developed a specific aptamer against CD133 (CD133-apt), and then loaded this aptamer with an anticancer drug doxorubicin (CD133-apt-Dox). The efficacy of CD133-apt-Dox in targeting liver cancer stem-like cells and its overall effect in treating liver cancer were investigated using multiple in vitro and in vivo studies including in patients-derived liver cancer organoids. We have observed that CD133-apt could preferably delivered doxorubicin to CD133-expressing cells with efficient drug accumulation and retention. CD133-apt-Dox impaired the self-renewal capacity of liver cancer stem-like cells and attenuated their stem-ness phenotypes in vitro or in vivo. CD133-apt-Dox significantly inhibited the growth of liver cancer cells and patients-derived organoids and reduced the growth of xenograft tumours in nude mice inhibited the growth of DEN-induced liver cancer in immunocompetent mice. Hence, aptamer-mediated targeting of CD133 is a highly promising approach for liver cancer therapy.
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MESH Headings
- AC133 Antigen/genetics
- Animals
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/administration & dosage
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/pharmacokinetics
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/administration & dosage
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/genetics
- Aptamers, Nucleotide/pharmacokinetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Doxorubicin/administration & dosage
- Doxorubicin/pharmacokinetics
- Drug Carriers/administration & dosage
- Drug Carriers/pharmacokinetics
- Drug Delivery Systems/methods
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/drug effects
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/metabolism
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Sarah Da Won Bae
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Romario Nguyen
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Xiaoqi Huo
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Shuanglin Han
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Renal Inflammation and Immunology Group, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia; Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Lionel Hebbard
- Discipline of Molecular and Cell Biology, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, James Cook University, Townsville, 4811, Australia
| | - Wei Duan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3217, Australia
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Christopher Liddle
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Lawrence Yuen
- Department of Surgery, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Vincent Lam
- Department of Surgery, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Liang Qiao
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
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17
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Garg M, Shanmugam MK, Bhardwaj V, Goel A, Gupta R, Sharma A, Baligar P, Kumar AP, Goh BC, Wang L, Sethi G. The pleiotropic role of transcription factor STAT3 in oncogenesis and its targeting through natural products for cancer prevention and therapy. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:1291-1336. [PMID: 33289118 DOI: 10.1002/med.21761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is one of the crucial transcription factors, responsible for regulating cellular proliferation, cellular differentiation, migration, programmed cell death, inflammatory response, angiogenesis, and immune activation. In this review, we have discussed the classical regulation of STAT3 via diverse growth factors, cytokines, G-protein-coupled receptors, as well as toll-like receptors. We have also highlighted the potential role of noncoding RNAs in regulating STAT3 signaling. However, the deregulation of STAT3 signaling has been found to be associated with the initiation and progression of both solid and hematological malignancies. Additionally, hyperactivation of STAT3 signaling can maintain the cancer stem cell phenotype by modulating the tumor microenvironment, cellular metabolism, and immune responses to favor drug resistance and metastasis. Finally, we have also discussed several plausible ways to target oncogenic STAT3 signaling using various small molecules derived from natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Muthu K Shanmugam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vipul Bhardwaj
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Akul Goel
- La Canada High School, La Canada Flintridge, California, USA
| | - Rajat Gupta
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arundhiti Sharma
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Prakash Baligar
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Cher Goh
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Center for Translational Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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18
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Molecular Mechanisms to Target Cellular Senescence in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122540. [PMID: 33255630 PMCID: PMC7761055 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122540] [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] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has emerged as a major cause of cancer-related death and is the most common type of liver cancer. Due to the current paucity of drugs for HCC therapy there is a pressing need to develop new therapeutic concepts. In recent years, the role of Serum Response Factor (SRF) and its coactivators, Myocardin-Related Transcription Factors A and B (MRTF-A and -B), in HCC formation and progression has received considerable attention. Targeting MRTFs results in HCC growth arrest provoked by oncogene-induced senescence. The induction of senescence acts as a tumor-suppressive mechanism and therefore gains consideration for pharmacological interventions in cancer therapy. In this article, we describe the key features and the functional role of senescence in light of the development of novel drug targets for HCC therapy with a focus on MRTFs.
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Ho CH, Lu YC, Fan CK, Yu HJ, Liu HT, Wu CC, Chen KC, Liu SP, Cheng PC. Testosterone regulates the intracellular bacterial community formation of uropathogenic Escherichia coli in prostate cells via STAT3. Int J Med Microbiol 2020; 310:151450. [PMID: 33092696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2020.151450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND UPEC can internalize clonally in prostate to form biofilm-like intracellular bacterial communities (IBCs) for recurrent or chronic infection. We previously indicated that the exposure of prostate cells to testosterone could suppress UPEC invasion and their persistent survival within cells by effectively inhibiting the JAK/STAT1 signaling pathway. However, the regulatory mechanism by which testosterone affects UPEC-induced prostatitis via STAT3, another latent transcription factor signaling pathway is still unclear. The present study aimed to clarify the role of STAT3 in the process of UPEC-induced inflammation and colonization in prostate epithelial cells. METHODS The effects of testosterone-mediated inhibition were compared between the prostatitis by different UPEC strains (CFT073 and J96) through the specific GFP-UPEC-infected prostate cell model. Fluorescence microscopy was used for UPEC IBCs detection and quantifying, and Flow cytometry, RT-PCR and western blotting were used for analyzing related gene and protein expressions. Pretreatment of JAK and STAT3 inhibitors were also applied to verify the regulation of transduction pathway in testosterone-mediated anti-UPEC infection. RESULTS This study revealed that testosterone effectively suppresses UPEC infection and IBC formation in prostate cells through the JAK/STAT3 pathway. The results show that CFT073 and J96 UPEC infection rates and colony numbers were dose-dependently reduced in RWPE-1 cells pretreated with 5 and 20 μg/mL testosterone at 0 and 24 h post-infection. Further, testosterone reduced the amounts of UPEC infecting and surviving within the prostate cells, as well as suppressed the size of IBCs formed. We demonstrated that pretreating testosterone effectively inhibited UPEC infection along with dose-dependent suppression of STAT3 and the phosphorylated-STAT3 expression in prostate cells, especially in 24 h J96 UPEC infected groups. The STAT inhibitor, SOCS3 also up-regulated at the same time. In addition, we pretreated the JAK1 or STAT3 inhibitor with testosterone to block the signaling transduction before CFT073 and J96 UPEC infection, and found the significant restoring in both the sizes of IBCs and bacterial numbers in RWPE-1 cells. Therefore, our results suggest that the suppression of STAT3 by testosterone treatment attenuate UPEC growing within IBCs and interfere with their infection to prostate cells. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study demonstrates that testosterone suppresses the initial infection of prostate epithelial cells by UPEC and reduces the survival of UPEC within IBCs after infection. These results indicate a critical role for STAT3 in facilitating UPEC infection and persistence, and its participation in driving testosterone-suppressive responses in prostate epithelial cells. In conclusion, this study suggests that testosterone may be beneficial in treating clinically recurrent UPEC infections and, thus, the persistent recurrence of prostatic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hsun Ho
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Lu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Center for International Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Jeng Yu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Tien Liu
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chang Wu
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Urology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Chou Chen
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Urology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ping Liu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Po-Ching Cheng
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Center for International Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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20
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Nakayama J, Gong Z. Transgenic zebrafish for modeling hepatocellular carcinoma. MedComm (Beijing) 2020; 1:140-156. [PMID: 34766114 PMCID: PMC8491243 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.29] [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: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer‐related deaths throughout the world, and more than 0.6 million people die from liver cancer annually. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies to eliminate malignant cells from liver cancer patients are urgently needed. Recent advances in high‐throughput genomic technologies have identified de novo candidates for oncogenes and pharmacological targets. However, testing and understanding the mechanism of oncogenic transformation as well as probing the kinetics and therapeutic responses of spontaneous tumors in an intact microenvironment require in vivo examination using genetically modified animal models. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) has attracted increasing attention as a new model for studying cancer biology since the organs in the model are strikingly similar to human organs and the model can be genetically modified in a short time and at a low cost. This review summarizes the current knowledge of epidemiological data and genetic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), zebrafish models of HCC, and potential therapeutic strategies for targeting HCC based on knowledge from the models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joji Nakayama
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Zhiyuan Gong
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
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21
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Song HT, Cui Y, Zhang LL, Cao G, Li L, Li G, Jia XJ. Ruxolitinib attenuates intimal hyperplasia via inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway activation induced by PDGF-BB in vascular smooth muscle cells. Microvasc Res 2020; 132:104060. [PMID: 32818511 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.104060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular diseases are associated with proliferation and phenotypic switch. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) is a major initiating factor for proliferative vascular diseases, such as neointimal lesion formation, restenosis after angioplasty, and atherosclerosis. Ruxolitinib, a potent Janus kinase (JAK) 1 and 2 inhibitor, has been reported to significantly block the proliferation-related signaling pathway of JAK2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) and harbor a broad spectrum of anti-cancer activities, including proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, and anti-inflammation. However, the role of ruxolitinib in regulating PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation remains to be elucidated. Thus, this study investigates the role of ruxolitinib in regulating PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS In vivo, the medial thickness of the carotid artery was evaluated using a mouse carotid ligation model, ruxolitinib was administered orally to the mice every other day, and the mice were euthanized on day 28 to evaluate the therapeutic effects of ruxolitinib. Cell proliferation markers were measured using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. In vitro, VSMCs were treated with ruxolitinib with or without PDGF-BB at an indicated time and concentration. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, MTS assays and flow cytometry. The JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway involved in the effects of ruxolitinib on VSMCs was detected by western blotting with the specific pathway inhibitor AG490. RESULTS In vivo, ruxolitinib significantly decreased the ratio-of-intima ratio (I/M ratio) by inhibiting the expression of PCNA and cyclinD1 (p <0.05). In vitro, ruxolitinib inhibited PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation compared with the PDGF-BB treatment group (p <0.05). In addition, ruxolitinib inhibited the PDGF-BB-induced activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and decreased the expression of proliferation related-proteins cyclinD1 and PCNA in VSMCs (p <0.05). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that ruxolitinib inhibits VSMC proliferation in vivo and in vitro by suppressing the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, ruxolitinib has a therapeutic potential for proliferative vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Tao Song
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuan Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Academy of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Li-Li Zhang
- Department of Endocrine, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Guang Cao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Administrative Office, District Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Jizhou, Tianjin, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xin-Ju Jia
- Department of Endocrine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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22
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Cantharidin treatment inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma development by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt pathways in an EphB4-dependent manner. Pharmacol Res 2020; 158:104868. [PMID: 32407961 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy with limited treatment options. The tyrosine kinase receptor EphB4 promotes oncogenesis and tumor development and progression. Its inhibition is regarded as an effective strategy for the treatment of solid tumors. In the present study, we identified cantharidin as a novel EphB4 inhibitor for HCC treatment and evaluated the underlying molecular pharmacological mechanisms of action. We observed increased expression levels of EphB4 in HCC patients and a positive correlation between EphB4 and p-JAK2 levels in HCC patient samples. Knockdown of EphB4 using small interfering RNA decreased the expression levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 in HCC cells, suggesting JAK2/STAT3 being a novel downstream signaling target of EphB4. Cell viability experiments revealed that the anti-cancer effect of cantharidin was positively correlated with EphB4 expression levels in HCC cell lines. We confirmed the potent antiproliferative activity of cantharidin on HepG2 cells with high expression of EphB4 and tumor xenograft. Molecular docking assay, immunoblotting assay and quantitative reverse transcription PCR assay indicated that cantharidin bound to EphB4, and thereby resulted in EphB4 suppression at mRNA and protein levels. Hep3B and SMMC-7721 cells were with low expression of EphB4. In EphB4-/HepG2, EphB4+/HepG2, and EphB4+/Hep3B cells, EphB4 knockdown alleviated the cantharidin-induced decrease in cell viability and colony formation ability and increase in apoptosis in HepG2 cells, while its overexpression exacerbated these effects in Hep3B cells and increased the apoptosis of HepG2 cells. In nude mouse models, cantharidin suppressed tumor growth more effectively in EphB4+/SMMC-7721 xenografts than in wild-type SMMC-7721 xenografts. Underlying mechanistic study showed that by targeting EphB4, cantharidin blocked a novel target, the downstream JAK2/STAT3 pathway, and the previously known target, the PI3K/Akt signaling, resulting in intrinsic apoptosis. These results indicated that cantharidin may be a potential candidate for HCC treatment by regulating the EphB4 signaling pathway.
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23
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Hin Tang JJ, Hao Thng DK, Lim JJ, Toh TB. JAK/STAT signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepat Oncol 2020; 7:HEP18. [PMID: 32273976 PMCID: PMC7137178 DOI: 10.2217/hep-2020-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the second most lethal cancer in the world with limited treatment options. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for more than 80% of all liver cancers, has had increasing global incidence over the past few years. There is an urgent need for novel and better therapeutic intervention for HCC patients. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway plays a multitude of important biological functions in both normal and malignant cells. In a subset of HCC, JAK/STAT signaling is aberrantly activated, leading to dysregulation of downstream target genes that controls survival, angiogenesis, stemness, immune surveillance, invasion and metastasis. In this review, we will focus on the role of JAK/STAT signaling in HCC and discuss the current clinical status of several JAK/STAT inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Jit Hin Tang
- The N.1 Institute for Health (N.1), National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dexter Kai Hao Thng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jhin Jieh Lim
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tan Boon Toh
- The N.1 Institute for Health (N.1), National University of Singapore, Singapore
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24
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Markotic A, Flegar D, Grcevic D, Sucur A, Lalic H, Turcic P, Kovacic N, Lukac N, Pravdic D, Vukojevic K, Cavar I, Kelava T. LPS-induced inflammation desensitizes hepatocytes to Fas-induced apoptosis through Stat3 activation-The effect can be reversed by ruxolitinib. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:2981-2992. [PMID: 32022429 PMCID: PMC7077556 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have established a concept of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)/Fas signalling crosstalk, highlighting TNF‐α as a critical cytokine in sensitizing hepatocytes to death induced by Fas activation. However, in the exact inflammatory response, besides TNF‐α, many other mediators, that might modulate apoptotic response differentially, are released. To resolve the issue, we studied the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), one of the crucial inductors of inflammation in the liver, on apoptotic outcome. We show that LPS‐induced inflammation diminishes the sensitivity of hepatocytes to Fas stimulus in vivo at caspase‐8 level. Analysis of molecular mechanisms revealed an increased expression of various pro‐inflammatory cytokines in non‐parenchymal liver cells and hepatocyte‐specific increase in Bcl‐xL, associated with signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) phosphorylation. Pre‐treatment with ruxolitinib, a selective Janus kinase (JAK) 1/2 inhibitor, prevented the LPS‐induced Stat3 phosphorylation and restored the sensitivity of hepatocytes to Fas‐mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, ruxolitinib pre‐treatment diminished the LPS‐induced Bcl‐xL up‐regulation without an inhibitory effect on LPS‐induced expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. In summary, although the reports are showing that the effects of isolated pro‐inflammatory mediators, such as TNF‐α or neutrophils, are pro‐apoptotic, the overall effect of inflammatory milieu on hepatocytes in vivo is Stat3‐dependent desensitization to Fas‐mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Markotic
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University Clinical Hospital Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Darja Flegar
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Danka Grcevic
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alan Sucur
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Lalic
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Petra Turcic
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Natasa Kovacic
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nina Lukac
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Danijel Pravdic
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,University Clinical Hospital Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Katarina Vukojevic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Split, Croatia.,Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Ivan Cavar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,University Clinical Hospital Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Tomislav Kelava
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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25
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Alghzzawy ZM, Elmaghraby TK, El-Hamid Hagag SA, Awwad MH. Combretastatin A-4 disodium phosphate and low dose gamma irradiation suppress hepatocellular carcinoma by downregulating ROCK1 and VEGF gene expression. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:1883-1893. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05282-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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26
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Jak-Stat Signaling Induced by Interleukin-6 Family Cytokines in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111704. [PMID: 31683891 PMCID: PMC6896168 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide. It can be caused by chronic liver cell injury with resulting sustained inflammation, e.g., triggered by infections with hepatitis viruses B (HBV) and C (HCV). Death of hepatocytes leads to the activation of compensatory mechanisms, which can ultimately result in liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Another common feature is the infiltration of the liver with inflammatory cells, which secrete cytokines and chemokines that act directly on the hepatocytes. Among several secreted proteins, members of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines have emerged as important regulatory proteins that might constitute an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. The IL-6-type cytokines activate multiple intracellular signaling pathways, and especially the Jak/STAT cascade has been shown to be crucial for HCC development. In this review, we give an overview about HCC pathogenesis with respect to IL-6-type cytokines and the Jak/STAT pathway. We highlight the role of mutations in genes encoding several proteins involved in the cytokine/Jak/STAT axis and summarize current knowledge about IL-6 family cytokines in this context. We further discuss possible anti-cytokine therapies for HCC patients in comparison to already established therapies.
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27
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Bousoik E, Nabiee R, Amirrad F, Nichols A, Witt R, Mahdipoor P, Montazeri Aliabadi H. Heterogeneity and Plasticity of Human Breast Cancer Cells in Response to Molecularly-Targeted Drugs. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1070. [PMID: 31681603 PMCID: PMC6803545 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-responsive subpopulation of tumor cells, and acquired resistance in initially responsive cells are major challenges for cancer therapy with molecularly-targeted drugs. While point mutations are considered the major contributing factor to acquired resistance, in this study we explored the role of heterogeneity and plasticity of selected human breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, and AU565) in their initial and adjusted response, respectively, to ruxolitinib, everolimus, and erlotinib. After determination of lethal concentration for 50% cell death (LC50), cells were exposed to selected drugs using three different approaches: single exposure to 4 × LC50 and collection of surviving cells, multiple exposures to 1.5 × LC50 and monitoring the surviving population, and exposure to gradually increasing concentrations of selected drugs (range of concentrations equivalent to 10% of LC50 to 1.5 × LC50). Surviving cells were studied for adjustments in expression level of selected proteins using quantitative PCR and Western Blot. Our data indicated overexpression of a variety of proteins in resistant populations, which included cell membrane receptors EGFR and HER2, anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and BIRC8, and other proteins involved in cell signaling (e.g., Akt1, MAPK7, and RPS6KA5). Silencing the identified alternative proteins via siRNA resulted in significant drop in the LC50 of the selected molecularly-targeted drugs cells resistant to ruxolitinib (via targeting Akt), everolimus (via targeting EGFR, MAPK7, RPS6KA5, and HER2), and erlotinib (via silencing Bcl2 and BIRC8). Our data indicates that targeting well-selected alternative proteins could potentially sensitize the resistant cells to the effect of the molecularly-targeted treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emira Bousoik
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ramina Nabiee
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Farideh Amirrad
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ashley Nichols
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca Witt
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Parvin Mahdipoor
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Hamidreza Montazeri Aliabadi
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, CA, United States
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Ahmed NM, Youns M, Soltan MK, Said AM. Design, synthesis, molecular modelling, and biological evaluation of novel substituted pyrimidine derivatives as potential anticancer agents for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2019; 34:1110-1120. [PMID: 31117890 PMCID: PMC6537702 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2019.1612889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
New anticancer agents are highly needed to overcome cancer cell resistance. A novel series of pyrimidine pyrazoline-anthracene derivatives (PPADs) (4a-t) were designed and synthesised. The anti-liver cancer activity of all compounds was screened in vitro against two hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines (HepG2 and Huh-7) as well as normal fibroblast cells by resazurin assay. The designed compounds 4a-t showed a broad-spectrum anticancer activity against the two cell lines and their activity was more prominent on cancer compared to normal cells. Compound 4e showed high potency against HepG2 and Huh-7 cell lines ((IC50=5.34 and 6.13 μg/mL, respectively) comparable to that of doxorubicin (DOX) activities. A structure activity relationship (SAR) has been investigated and compounds 4e, 4i, 4m, and 4q were the most promising anticancer agents against tested cell lines. These compounds induced apoptosis in HepG2 and Huh-7 cells through significant activation of caspase 3/7 at all tested concentrations. In conclusion, 4e could be a potent anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naglaa Mohamed Ahmed
- a Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy , Helwan University , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Youns
- b Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy , Helwan University , Cairo , Egypt.,c Department of Functional Genome Analysis , German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Moustafa Khames Soltan
- d Medicinal Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy , Zagazig University , Zagazig , Egypt.,e Oman College of Health Sciences , Muscat , Sultanate of Oman
| | - Ahmed Mohammed Said
- a Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy , Helwan University , Cairo , Egypt.,f Department of Chemistry , University at Buffalo, The State University of New York , Buffalo , NY , USA
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Dual functions of STAT3 in LPS-induced angiogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2019; 1866:566-574. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2018.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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30
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Lin Q, Ling YB, Chen JW, Zhou CR, Chen J, Li X, Huang MS. Circular RNA circCDK13 suppresses cell proliferation, migration and invasion by modulating the JAK/STAT and PI3K/AKT pathways in liver cancer. Int J Oncol 2018; 53:246-256. [PMID: 29658568 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs have recently been disclosed as potential biomarkers for human cancers. This study aimed to characterize the expression and function of a novel circular RNA, circCDK13, in liver cancer progression, as well as to elucide the underlying mechanisms. For this purpose, circCDK13 expression was quantitatively analyzed by RT-PCR in various liver cancer cell lines and human cancerous tissues. The migration, cell cycle progression, proliferation and invasion of liver cancer cells with an enhanced circCDK13 expression were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay, flow cytometry and the Transwell culture system. Microarray and western blot analyses were performed to explore the underlying signaling mechanisms. The role of circCDK13 in liver cancer was finally examined by tumorigenicity assay using nude mice. The results revealed that circCDK13 expression was suppressed in various liver cancer lines and tissue samples from patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). The induced overexpression of circCDK13 in the liver cancer cells markedly inhibited their migration rates, altered cell cycle progression, and suppressed the cell migratory and invasive capacities. Microarray analysis also identified numerous downstream genes regulated by circCDK13, particularly those in the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathways. The results of the tumorigenicity assay revealed that circCDK13 overexpression significantly inhibited liver cancer progression in nude mice. On the whole, the findings of this study indicate that circCDK13 is a novel circular RNA that suppresses liver cancer progression, and that these suppressive effects are possibly mediated via the JAK/STAT and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qu Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Biao Ling
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Wei Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Chu-Ren Zhou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Ming-Sheng Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Τhe Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
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Lin X, Zou X, Wang Z, Fang Q, Chen S, Huang J, Zhe N, Yu M, Zhang Y, Wang J. Targeting of heme oxygenase-1 attenuates the negative impact of Ikaros isoform 6 in adult BCR-ABL1-positive B-ALL. Oncotarget 2018; 7:53679-53701. [PMID: 27447561 PMCID: PMC5288214 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The correlation between Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and dominant-negative Ikaros isoform 6 (IK6) is unclear. Firstly, we detected that IK6 existed in 20 of 42 (47.6%) adult BCR-ABL1-positive B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCR-ABL1-positive B-ALL) by using reverse transcribed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nucleotide sequencing. IK6-positive patients had an unfavorable outcome compared with IK6-negative ones. Further study showed that the level of HO-1 expression was higher in IK6-positive patients' samples than that in IK6-negative ones. And there was a strong correlation between the expression of IK6 and HO-1. The growth of primary CD34+ leukemic cells derived from our IK6-positive patients' pool was prohibited by silencing HO-1, further promoting their apoptosis. Furthermore, primary CD34+ leukemic cells derived from IK6-positive patients shown poor responses to imatinib in comparison with wild-type (IK1) patients, suggesting that the expression of IK6 resisted to imatinib in adult BCR-ABL1-positive B-ALL. Importantly, inhibition of HO-1 also increased their sensitivity to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Finally, we found that IK6 activated downstream STAT5, and HO-1 was one of the downstream target genes of STAT5. In conclusion, HO-1 is an essential survival factor in BCR-ABL1-positive B-ALL with IK6, and targeting HO-1 can attenuate the negative impact of IK6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Lin
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, China
| | - Xingli Zou
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, China
| | - Ziming Wang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Qin Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Baiyun Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Shuya Chen
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Jun Huang
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Nana Zhe
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Meisheng Yu
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yaming Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Jishi Wang
- Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China.,Department of Hematology, Guizhou Provincial Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Center, Guiyang 550004, China
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Ruxolitinib sensitizes ovarian cancer to reduced dose Taxol, limits tumor growth and improves survival in immune competent mice. Oncotarget 2017; 8:94040-94053. [PMID: 29212208 PMCID: PMC5706854 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chemotherapy initially reduces the tumor burden in patients with ovarian cancer. However, tumors recur in over 70% of patients, creating the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Methods We evaluated Ruxolitinib, an FDA-approved JAK 1/2 kinase inhibitor, as a potential adjunctive therapy for use with low-dose Taxol (Paclitaxel) by assessing the impact on in vitro proliferation and colony formation of ID8 cells or human TOV-112D ovarian cancer cells, as well as flow cytometric measurement of surface markers associated with cellular stress and stemness by ID8 cells. The syngeneic ID8 murine model of ovarian cancer was used to assess the impact of Ruxolitinib and Taxol, individually and in combination, on tumor initiation and growth, as well as capacity to extend survival. Results Ruxolitinib (≤10 μM) sensitized both ID8 and TOV-112D cells to low concentrations of Taxol (≤5 nM), limiting cell proliferation and colony formation in vitro. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that Taxol induced expression of stress and stemness markers including GRP78 and CD133 was significantly reduced by addition of Ruxolitinib. Finally, we demonstrated that a single administration of a low-dose of Taxol (10 mg/Kg) together with daily Ruxolitinib (30 mg/Kg; which is equivalent to plasma concentrations of ∼ 0.01 μM steady-state) limited ID8 tumor growth in vivo and significantly extended median survival up to 53.5% (median 70 v 107.5 days) as compared to control mice. Conclusion Together, these data support the use of Ruxolitinib in combination with low-dose Taxol as a therapeutic approach with the potential for improved efficacy and reduced side effects for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.
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Radhakrishnan H, Ilm K, Walther W, Shirasawa S, Sasazuki T, Daniel PT, Gillissen B, Stein U. MACC1 regulates Fas mediated apoptosis through STAT1/3 - Mcl-1 signaling in solid cancers. Cancer Lett 2017. [PMID: 28649004 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
MACC1 was identified as a novel player in cancer progression and metastasis, but its role in death receptor-mediated apoptosis is still unexplored. We show that MACC1 knockdown sensitizes cancer cells to death receptor-mediated apoptosis. For the first time, we provide evidence for STAT signaling as a MACC1 target. MACC1 knockdown drastically reduced STAT1/3 activating phosphorylation, thereby regulating the expression of its apoptosis targets Mcl-1 and Fas. STAT signaling inhibition by the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib mimicked MACC1 knockdown-mediated molecular signatures and apoptosis sensitization to Fas activation. Despite the increased Fas expression, the reduced Mcl-1 expression was instrumental in apoptosis sensitization. This reduced Mcl-1-mediated apoptosis sensitization was Bax and Bak dependent. MACC1 knockdown also increased TRAIL-induced apoptosis. MACC1 overexpression enhanced STAT1/3 phosphorylation and increased Mcl-1 expression, which was abrogated by ruxolitinib. The central role of Mcl-1 was strengthened by the resistance of Mcl-1 overexpressing cells to apoptosis induction. The clinical relevance of Mcl-1 regulation by MACC1 was supported by their positive expression correlation in patient-derived tumors. Altogether, we reveal a novel death receptor-mediated apoptosis regulatory mechanism by MACC1 in solid cancers through modulation of the STAT1/3-Mcl-1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harikrishnan Radhakrishnan
- Translational Oncology of Solid Tumors, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; Berlin School of Integrative Oncology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Ilm
- Translational Oncology of Solid Tumors, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Walther
- Translational Oncology of Solid Tumors, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Senji Shirasawa
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Peter T Daniel
- Clinical and Molecular Oncology, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernhard Gillissen
- Clinical and Molecular Oncology, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Stein
- Translational Oncology of Solid Tumors, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.
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Ho CH, Fan CK, Yu HJ, Wu CC, Chen KC, Liu SP, Cheng PC. Testosterone suppresses uropathogenic Escherichia coli invasion and colonization within prostate cells and inhibits inflammatory responses through JAK/STAT-1 signaling pathway. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180244. [PMID: 28665978 PMCID: PMC5493373 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostatitis is a common condition in adult men of all ages. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are most frequent pathogen involved in bacterial prostatitis by refluxing the infected urine into prostatic ducts and resulting in an ascending urethral infection. However, the study about the mechanisms of UPEC to invade, replicate and persist in normal prostate epithelial cell is only few. Given the fact that UPEC is pathogen most frequently involved in prostatitis and that testosterone has been demonstrated to attenuate prostate inflammation caused by other etiologies. In this study we investigated whether the testosterone reduces the prostatitis and related mechanism by regulating IFN-γ/STAT1 signaling pathway. In the current study aimed to clarify whether testosterone influences the process of UPEC-induced prostate inflammation and invasion into the prostate epithelial cells. In addition, we set up a normal prostate cell model for UPEC infection to evaluate the ability to invade the urothelial cells as well as the colonization of intercellular bacterial communities in vitro. By using the model, we examine the effects of testosterone to suppress effectively the invasion and survival of UPEC in the prostate cells, and inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory responses through the JAK/STAT1 pathway have also been indicated. Our results demonstrated testosterone not only suppressed the invasion and colonization of UPEC, but also inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 cytokines expression induced by UPEC in a dose-dependent manner. We found the effective dose of testosterone to suppress UPEC infect prostate cells may be appropriate under 40μg/ml. Our data also revealed 20μg/ml testosterone treated PZ-HPV-7 cells significantly suppressed the LPS-induced JAK/STAT1 pathway and inflammatory responses, and reached to maximal effects at 40μg/ml treatment. These results indicate that testosterone plays an anti-inflammatory role in LPS-induced prostate cell inflammation by down-regulating JAK/STAT1 signaling pathway. Interestingly, the JAK inhibitor and testosterone for 24hr pretreatment rather markedly induced the colonization of UPEC in the PZ-HPV-7 cells. Based on the above data, the suppression of UPEC colonization in the prostate cells by testosterone seems to be unrelated with JAK/STAT signaling pathway, whereas the JAK may involve into the UPEC infection. Summing up these data, our findings have demonstrated the suppressive effects of testosterone on the invasion and survival of UPEC and induced inflammation in prostate epithelial cells. These findings indicate the action mechanism of testosterone as an anti-inflammatory mediator in the prostate cells is regulated through JAK/STAT1 signaling pathway, may be beneficial in treating prostate inflammation. Altogether, this study has provided the possibility that using testosterone in the prevention and clinical treatment of prostatitis is a new direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hsun Ho
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for International Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Jeng Yu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chang Wu
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Chou Chen
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ping Liu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (PCC); (SPL)
| | - Po-Ching Cheng
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for International Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (PCC); (SPL)
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JAK-STAT Signaling Pathways and Inhibitors Affect Reversion of Envelope-Mutated HIV-1. J Virol 2017; 91:JVI.00075-17. [PMID: 28202754 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00075-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV can spread by both cell-free and cell-to-cell transmission. Here, we show that many of the amino acid changes in Env that are close to the CD4 binding pocket can affect HIV replication. We generated a number of mutant viruses that were unable to infect T cells as cell-free viruses but were nevertheless able to infect certain T cell lines as cell-associated viruses, which was followed by reversion to the wild type. However, the activation of JAK-STAT signaling pathways caused the inhibition of such cell-to-cell infection as well as the reversion of multiple HIV Env mutants that displayed differences in their abilities to bind to the CD4 receptor. Specifically, two T cell activators, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), both capable of activation of JAK-STAT pathways, were able to inhibit cell-to-cell viral transmission. In contrast, but consistent with the above result, a number of JAK-STAT and mTOR inhibitors actually promoted HIV-1 transmission and reversion. Hence, JAK-STAT signaling pathways may differentially affect the replication of a variety of HIV Env mutants in ways that differ from the role that these pathways play in the replication of wild-type viruses.IMPORTANCE Specific alterations in HIV Env close to the CD4 binding site can differentially change the ability of HIV to mediate infection for cell-free and cell-associated viruses. However, such differences are dependent to some extent on the types of target cells used. JAK-STAT signaling pathways are able to play major roles in these processes. This work sheds new light on factors that can govern HIV infection of target cells.
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Activating JAK1 mutation may predict the sensitivity of JAK-STAT inhibition in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncotarget 2016; 7:5461-9. [PMID: 26701727 PMCID: PMC4868698 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common type of cancers worldwide. However, current therapeutic approaches for this epidemic disease are limited, and its 5-year survival rate hasn't been improved in the past decades. Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumor models have become an excellent in vivo system for understanding of disease biology and drug discovery. In order to identify new therapeutic targets for HCC, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on more than 60 HCC PDX models. Among them, four models exhibited protein-altering mutations in JAK1 (Janus Kinase 1) gene. To explore the transforming capability, these mutations were then introduced into HEK293FT and Ba/F3 cells. The results demonstrated that JAK1S703I mutation was able to activate JAK-STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription) signaling pathway and drive cell proliferation in the absence of cytokine stimulation in vitro. Furthermore, the sensitivity to the treatment of a JAK1/2 inhibitor, ruxolitinib, was observed in JAK1S703I mutant PDX model, but not in other non-activating mutant or wild type models. Pharmacodynamic analysis showed that phosphorylation of STAT3 in the Ruxolitinib-treated tumor tissues was significantly suppressed. Collectively, our results suggested that JAK1S703I is an activating mutation for JAK-STAT signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, and JAK-STAT pathway might represent a new therapeutic approach for HCC treatment. Monotherapy using a more potent and specific JAK1 inhibitor and combinatory therapy should be further explored in JAK1 mutant PDX models.
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Niu ZS, Niu XJ, Wang WH. Genetic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma: An update. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:9069-9095. [PMID: 27895396 PMCID: PMC5107590 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i41.9069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although recent advances in therapeutic approaches for treating HCC have improved the prognoses of patients with HCC, this cancer is still associated with a poor survival rate mainly due to late diagnosis. Therefore, a diagnosis must be made sufficiently early to perform curative and effective treatments. There is a need for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of HCC because these mechanisms are critical for making early diagnoses and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, much progress has been made in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis. In particular, recent advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have revealed numerous genetic alterations, including recurrently mutated genes and dysregulated signaling pathways in HCC. A better understanding of the genetic alterations in HCC could contribute to identifying potential driver mutations and discovering novel therapeutic targets in the future. In this article, we summarize the current advances in research on the genetic alterations, including genomic instability, single-nucleotide polymorphisms, somatic mutations and deregulated signaling pathways, implicated in the initiation and progression of HCC. We also attempt to elucidate some of the genetic mechanisms that contribute to making early diagnoses of and developing molecularly targeted therapies for HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Genomic Instability
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Mutation
- Patient Selection
- Phenotype
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Precision Medicine
- Predictive Value of Tests
- Signal Transduction
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Schmidt-Arras D, Rose-John S. IL-6 pathway in the liver: From physiopathology to therapy. J Hepatol 2016; 64:1403-15. [PMID: 26867490 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 577] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic four-helix-bundle cytokine that exerts multiple functions in the body. In the liver, IL-6 is an important inducer of the acute phase response and infection defense. IL-6 is furthermore crucial for hepatocyte homeostasis and is a potent hepatocyte mitogen. It is not only implicated in liver regeneration, but also in metabolic function of the liver. However, persistent activation of the IL-6 signaling pathway is detrimental to the liver and might ultimately result in the development of liver tumors. On target cells IL-6 can bind to the signal transducing subunit gp130 either in complex with the membrane-bound or with the soluble IL-6 receptor to induce intracellular signaling. In this review we describe how these different pathways are involved in the physiology and pathophyiology of the liver. We furthermore discuss how IL-6 pathways can be selectively inhibited and therapeutically exploited for the treatment of liver pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Schmidt-Arras
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Olshausenstrasse 40, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stefan Rose-John
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Olshausenstrasse 40, Kiel, Germany.
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Bagca BG, Ozalp O, Kurt CC, Mutlu Z, Saydam G, Gunduz C, Avci CB. Ruxolitinib induces autophagy in chronic myeloid leukemia cells. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:1573-9. [PMID: 26298727 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ruxolitinib is the first agent used in myelofibrosis treatment with its potent JAK2 inhibitory effect. In this novel study, we aimed to discover the anti-leukemic effect of ruxolitinib in K-562 human chronic myeloid leukemia cell line compared to NCI-BL 2171 human healthy B lymphocyte cell line. Cytotoxic effect of ruxolitinib was determined by using WST-1 assay. IC50 values for K-562 and NCI-BL 2171 cell lines were defined as 20 and 23.6 μM at the 48th hour, respectively. Autophagic effects of ruxolitinib were detected by measuring LC3B-II protein formation. Ruxolitinib induced autophagic cell death in K-562 and NCI-BL 2171 cell lines 2.11- and 1.79-fold compared to control groups, respectively. To determine the autophagy-related gene expression changes, total RNA was isolated from K-562 and NCI-BL 2171 cells treated with ruxolitinib and untreated cells as control group. Reverse transcription procedure was performed for cDNA synthesis, and gene expressions were shown by RT-qPCR. Ruxolitinib treatment caused a notable decrease in expression of AKT, mTOR, and STAT autophagy inhibitor genes in K-562 cells, contrariwise control cell line. Ruxolitinib is a promising agent in chronic myeloid leukemia treatment by blocking JAK/STAT pathway known as downstream of BCR-ABL and triggering autophagy. This is the first study that reveals the relationship between ruxolitinib and autophagy induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bakiye Goker Bagca
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Ozgun Ozalp
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Cansu Caliskan Kurt
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Mutlu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Guray Saydam
- Department of Hematology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Cumhur Gunduz
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Cigir Biray Avci
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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Chan SL, Chan AWH, Yeo W. Novel therapeutic targets and predictive markers for hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:973-83. [DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1031109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Tian A, Wilson GS, Lie S, Wu G, Hu Z, Hebbard L, Duan W, George J, Qiao L. Synergistic effects of IAP inhibitor LCL161 and paclitaxel on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Lett 2014; 351:232-41. [PMID: 24976294 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) are key regulators of apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and their expression is negatively correlated with patient survival. LCL161 is a small molecule inhibitor of IAPs that has potent antitumour activity in a range of solid tumours. In HCC, response to LCL161 therapy has shown to be mediated by Bcl-2 expression. In this study, we aim to determine whether LCL161 has any therapeutic potential in HCC. Protein expression was determined by Western blot. Cell proliferation was determined by Cell Proliferation ELISA and BrdU colorimetric assays. Apoptosis was determined by Annexin V assay. Cell cycle analysis was performed by staining cells with propidium iodide and analysed in a FACScan. Automated Cell Counter and phase contrast microscopy were used to determine the cell viability. We have found that LCL161 targets (cIAP1, cIAP2 and XIAP) were up-regulated in HCC tumours. Both high Bcl-2 expressing HuH7 cells and low Bcl-2 expressing SNU423 cells showed strong resistance to LCL161 therapy with significant effects on both apoptosis and cell viability only evident at LCL161 concentrations of ⩾100μM. At these doses there was significant inhibition of IAP targets, however there was also significant inhibition of off-target proteins including pERK and pJNK suggesting apoptosis caused by drug toxicity. However, when used in combination with paclitaxel in HuH7 and SNU423 cells, LCL161 had significant antiproliferative effects at doses as low as 2μM and this was independent of Bcl-2 expression. Thus, LCL161 may be a useful agent in combination with paclitaxel to treat liver tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiping Tian
- First Clinical Medical School and the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - George S Wilson
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Stefanus Lie
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Guang Wu
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Zenan Hu
- First Clinical Medical School and the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Lionel Hebbard
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Wei Duan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Liang Qiao
- Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney, Westmead Millennium Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
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42
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Hazem SH, Shaker ME, Ashamallah SA, Ibrahim TM. The novel Janus kinase inhibitor ruxolitinib confers protection against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity via multiple mechanisms. Chem Biol Interact 2014; 220:116-27. [PMID: 24973641 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2014.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic targeting of the JAK/STAT pathway, the principal signaling mechanism for numerous cytokines, might be an effective approach for limiting inflammation in different organs, including the liver. Therefore, we investigated whether targeting this pathway by the novel JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib could mitigate hepatic damage provoked by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Male mice received ruxolitinib treatments (75 and 150 mg/kg, oral) 2 h prior to intoxication with CCl4 (10 ml/kg of 0.3% v/v CCl4 solution in olive oil, intraperitoneal) for 24 h. Our results showed that ruxolitinib treatments dose-dependently alleviated CCl4-induced hepatic injury and necroinflammation, as indicated by biochemical markers of injury and histopathology. We unraveled also the mechanisms involved in these hepatoprotective effects. These comprise (i) reducing infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages, as demonstrated by reducing myeloperoxidase activity and F4/80 positive macrophages; (ii) abating apoptosis of hepatocytes, as denoted by decreasing hepatocytes positive for Bax protein; (iii) inhibiting elevation of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10; (iv) inhibiting NF-κB activation and translocation to the nucleus, as visualized immunohistochemically; (v) attenuating activation of the IL-23/IL-17 pathway via targeting IL-17, but not IL-23; (vi) antagonizing hepatic oxidative stress by increasing the antioxidant levels (reduced glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase and superoxide dismutase) and decreasing products of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal) and total nitrate/nitrite; and (vii) more interestingly, modulating hepatocyte regeneration according to the extent of damage, as quantified by PCNA-immunohistochemistry. In conclusion, our study sheds light on the therapeutic usefulness and the potential underlying mechanisms of the novel JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib in hepatic inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara H Hazem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mohamed E Shaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Sylvia A Ashamallah
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Tarek M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
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