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Braghini MR, De Stefanis C, Tiano F, Castellano A, Cicolani N, Pezzullo M, Tocco V, Spada M, Alaggio R, Alisi A, Francalanci P. Focal adhesion kinase and its epigenetic interactors as diagnostic and therapeutic hints for pediatric hepatoblastoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1397647. [PMID: 38947885 PMCID: PMC11211568 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1397647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common pediatric hepatic malignancy. Despite the progress in HB treatment, investigating HB pathomechanisms to optimize stratification and therapies remains a focal point to improve the outcome for high-risk patients. Methods Here, we pointed to explore the impact of these mechanisms in HB. An observational study was performed on liver samples from a cohort of 17 patients with a diagnosis of HB and two normal liver samples. The in vitro experiments were executed on the Huh6 human HB cell line treated with the FAK inhibitor TAE226. Results Our results highlight a significant up-regulation of mRNA and protein expression of FAK in livers from HB with respect to normal livers. The increased protein expression of total and Tyr397 phosphorylated FAK (pTyr397FAK) was significantly correlated with the expression of some epigenetic regulators of histone H3 methylation and acetylation. Of note, the expression of pTyr397FAK, N-methyltransferase enzyme (EZH2) and tri-methylation of the H3K27 residue correlated with tumor size and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Finally, TAE226 caused a significant reduction of pTyr397FAK, epigenetic regulators, AFP, EPCAM, OCT4, and SOX2, in association with anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects on HB cells. Conclusion Our results suggest a role of FAK in HB that requires further investigations mainly focused on the exploration of its effective diagnostic and therapeutic translatability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rita Braghini
- Research Unit of Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Tiano
- Research Unit of Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Aurora Castellano
- Division of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicolo’ Cicolani
- Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Pezzullo
- Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Tocco
- Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Spada
- Research Unit of Clinical Hepatogastroenterology and Transplantation; Division of Hepatobiliopancreatic Surgery, Liver and Kidney Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Alaggio
- Pathology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Alisi
- Research Unit of Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Francalanci
- Pathology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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2
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Zhou P, Hu M, Li Q, Yang G. Both intrinsic and microenvironmental factors contribute to the regulation of stem cell quiescence. J Cell Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38860372 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31325] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Precise regulation of stem cell quiescence is essential for tissue development and homeostasis. Therefore, its aberrant regulation is intimately correlated with various human diseases. However, the detailed mechanisms of stem cell quiescence and its specific role in the pathogenesis of various diseases remain to be determined. Recent studies have revealed that the intrinsic and microenvironmental factors are the potential candidates responsible for the orderly switch between the dormant and activated states of stem cells. In addition, defects in signaling pathways related to internal and external factors of stem cells might contribute to the initiation and development of diseases by altering the dormancy of stem cells. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms underlying stem cell quiescence, especially the involvement of intrinsic and microenvironmental factors. In addition, we discuss the relationship between the anomalies of stem cell quiescence and related diseases, hopefully providing therapeutic insights for developing novel treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhou
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Mingzheng Hu
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Qingchao Li
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Guiwen Yang
- Center for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cell Biology in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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3
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Ma Y, Lv H, Xing F, Xiang W, Wu Z, Feng Q, Wang H, Yang W. Cancer stem cell-immune cell crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment for liver cancer progression. Front Med 2024; 18:430-445. [PMID: 38600350 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1049-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Crosstalk between cancer cells and the immune microenvironment is determinant for liver cancer progression. A tumor subpopulation called liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) significantly accounts for the initiation, metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and recurrence of liver cancer. Emerging evidence demonstrates that the interaction between liver CSCs and immune cells plays a crucial role in shaping an immunosuppressive microenvironment and determining immunotherapy responses. This review sheds light on the bidirectional crosstalk between liver CSCs and immune cells for liver cancer progression, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms after presenting an overview of liver CSCs characteristic and their microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the potential application of liver CSCs-targeted immunotherapy for liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ma
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Hongwei Lv
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Fuxue Xing
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Zixin Wu
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Qiyu Feng
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China.
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Wen Yang
- Cancer Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 201805, China.
- International Co-operation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepato-biliary Tumor Biology, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China.
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4
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Zhao Z, Cui T, Wei F, Zhou Z, Sun Y, Gao C, Xu X, Zhang H. Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma: pathogenic role and therapeutic target. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1367364. [PMID: 38634048 PMCID: PMC11022604 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1367364] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver tumor and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a highly conserved pathway involved in several biological processes, including the improper regulation that leads to the tumorigenesis and progression of cancer. New studies have found that abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway is a major cause of HCC tumorigenesis, progression, and resistance to therapy. New perspectives and approaches to treating HCC will arise from understanding this pathway. This article offers a thorough analysis of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway's function and its therapeutic implications in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tenglu Cui
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Radiotherapy Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fengxian Wei
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Zhou
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chaofeng Gao
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihan Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The Second General Surgery Department, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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5
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Xie J, Wang H, Xie W, Liu Y, Chen Y. Gallic acid promotes ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma via inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:2437-2445. [PMID: 37847411 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has high morbidity and mortality, and effective therapies are lacking. Gallic acid (GA), a natural phenolic compound derived from plants, has been reported to prevent the onset and progression of various cancers. However, there is limited elaboration on the potential mechanisms and anticancer effects of GA on hepatocellular carcinoma. Inducing ferroptosis of tumor cells has become one of the most promising ways to eradicate tumor cells. However, the effect of GA on HCC ferroptosis remains unknown. We evaluated the impact of GA on cell viability, migration, and mitochondrial morphology in HepG2 cells. Our study identified a critical role of GA in inducing ferroptosis in HepG2 cells. Mechanistically, we found that GA could inhibit the expression of a ferroptosis-related protein SLC7A11 and GPX4 in HepG2, by blocking β-catenin transport from nuclear to the cytoplasm, thus inducing the inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our study has confirmed that GA is a novel ferroptosis inducer of HC, suggesting GA could be a promising candidate for the clinical treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Xie
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Haijiao Wang
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Wuxing Xie
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Yongping Liu
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
| | - Yi Chen
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
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6
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Ma X, Wang Z, Wang S, Tian Y, Xie B, Li J, Ma B, Li L. The assessment of circulating tumor DNA associated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway as a diagnostic tool for liver cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2024; 24:155-167. [PMID: 38299537 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2024.2312246] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in peripheral blood has become a promising noninvasive biomarker. However, the diagnostic potential of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related ctDNA for liver cancer is controversial. Here, we aimed to access the diagnostic potential and clinicopathological features of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related ctDNA in liver cancer and provide data support for its clinical diagnosis and treatment. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify the relevant studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool. The bivariate linear mixed models were used. RESULTS The AUC (area under the curve), pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.77, 0.42 and 0.98, respectively. The findings suggested that control type, sample source, research methods and thresholds were the potential sources of heterogeneity (p < 0.05). Additionally, this study also found that there were significant correlations between the hypermethylation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related ctDNA and tumor size, TNM stage, distant metastasis, and HBV infection(p < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study confirmed that Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related ctDNA had the better diagnostic potential for liver cancer and might be an effective complementary tool for serum AFP assays in the early diagnosis of liver cancer. PROSPERO (No. CRD42023404984).[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyuan Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Shuaiyang Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Bei Xie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Animal Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Bin Ma
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Linjing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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7
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Gajos-Michniewicz A, Czyz M. WNT/β-catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: The aberrant activation, pathogenic roles, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:727-746. [PMID: 37692481 PMCID: PMC10491942 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver cancer, highly heterogeneous both at the histopathological and molecular levels. It arises from hepatocytes as the result of the accumulation of numerous genomic alterations in various signaling pathways, including canonical WNT/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, MAPK pathways as well as signaling associated with telomere maintenance, p53/cell cycle regulation, epigenetic modifiers, and oxidative stress. The role of WNT/β-catenin signaling in liver homeostasis and regeneration is well established, whereas in development and progression of HCC is extensively studied. Herein, we review recent advances in our understanding of how WNT/β-catenin signaling facilitates the HCC development, acquisition of stemness features, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. We outline genetic and epigenetic alterations that lead to activated WNT/β-catenin signaling in HCC. We discuss the pivotal roles of CTNNB1 mutations, aberrantly expressed non-coding RNAs and complexity of crosstalk between WNT/β-catenin signaling and other signaling pathways as challenging or advantageous aspects of therapy development and molecular stratification of HCC patients for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gajos-Michniewicz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz 92-215, Poland
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8
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Ni T, Zhao RH, Wu JF, Li CY, Xue G, Lin X. KLK7, KLK10, and KLK11 in Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Bioinformatic Analysis and Experimental Validation. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10679-8. [PMID: 38316654 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10679-8] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Despite many studies on papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in the past few decades, some critical and significant genes remain undiscovered. To explore genes that may play crucial roles in PTC, a detailed analysis of the expression levels, mutations, and clinical significance of Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) family genes in PTC was undertaken to provide new targets for the precise treatment of the disease. A comprehensive analysis of KLK family genes was performed using various online tools, such as GEPIA, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, LinkedOmics, GSCA, TIMER, and Cluego. KLK7, KLK10, and KLK11 were critical factors of KLK family genes. Then, functional assays were carried out on KLK7/10/11 to determine their proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities in PTC. The mRNA expression levels of KLK7, KLK10, KLK11, and KLK13 were significantly elevated in thyroid carcinoma, while KLK1, KLK2, KLK3 and KLK4 mRNA levels were decreased compared to normal tissues. Correlations between KLK2/7-12/15 expression levels and tumor stage were also observed in thyroid carcinoma. Survival analysis demonstrated that KLK4/5/7/9-12/14 was associated with overall survival in patients with thyroid cancer. Not only were KLK genes strongly associated with cancer-related pathways, but also KLK7/10/11 was associated with immune-cell infiltration. Finally, silencing KLK7/10/11 impaired human papillary thyroid carcinoma cells' growth, migration ability, and invasiveness. The increased expression of KLK7, KLK10, and KLK11 may serve as molecular markers to identify PTC patients. KLK7, KLK10, and KLK11 could be potential prognostic indicators and targets for precision therapy against PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Ni
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Ru-Hua Zhao
- Department of Morphology Laboratory, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Jing-Fang Wu
- Department of Morphology Laboratory, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Chao-You Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Gang Xue
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China.
| | - Xu Lin
- Department of Morphology Laboratory, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China.
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9
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Manfredi GF, Celsa C, John C, Jones C, Acuti N, Scheiner B, Fulgenzi CAM, Korolewicz J, Pinter M, Gennari A, Mauri FA, Pirisi M, Minisini R, Vincenzi F, Burlone M, Rigamonti C, Donadon M, Cabibbo G, D’Alessio A, Pinato DJ. Mechanisms of Resistance to Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:1955-1971. [PMID: 37941812 PMCID: PMC10629523 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s291553] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been revolutionized over the last few years following the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Despite the promising survival extension seen with ICI combination regimens, responses are not universally seen and the optimal partner for programmed cell death 1 pathway inhibitors remains to be identified. Even fewer encouraging results have been demonstrated with ICI used for monotherapy. Several mechanisms of resistance have been described so far, involving characteristics of cancer cells (intrinsic mechanisms) and of the surrounding tumor microenvironment (extrinsic mechanisms). Factors related to therapy may also contribute to the development of resistance. Increasing research efforts are being dedicated to the discovery of novel approaches and targets to overcome resistance, some of which may be introduced into clinic in the future. Herein we describe a selection of resistance mechanisms that have been involved in impairing response to ICI and propose potential therapeutic approaches to overcome resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Francesca Manfredi
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Ciro Celsa
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Section of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences (Di.chir.on.s.), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Chloe John
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Jones
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nicole Acuti
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Bernhard Scheiner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Angela Maria Fulgenzi
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - James Korolewicz
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Matthias Pinter
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alessandra Gennari
- Division of Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco A Mauri
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, AOU Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Michela Burlone
- Division of Internal Medicine, AOU Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Cristina Rigamonti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, AOU Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Health Science, Università Del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Surgery, University Maggiore Hospital della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cabibbo
- Section of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio D’Alessio
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - David James Pinato
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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10
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Steinberg T, Dieterle MP, Ramminger I, Klein C, Brossette J, Husari A, Tomakidi P. On the Value of In Vitro Cell Systems for Mechanobiology from the Perspective of Yes-Associated Protein/Transcriptional Co-Activator with a PDZ-Binding Motif and Focal Adhesion Kinase and Their Involvement in Wound Healing, Cancer, Aging, and Senescence. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12677. [PMID: 37628858 PMCID: PMC10454169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612677] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanobiology comprises how cells perceive different mechanical stimuli and integrate them into a process called mechanotransduction; therefore, the related mechanosignaling cascades are generally important for biomedical research. The ongoing discovery of key molecules and the subsequent elucidation of their roles in mechanobiology are fundamental to understanding cell responses and tissue conditions, such as homeostasis, aging, senescence, wound healing, and cancer. Regarding the available literature on these topics, it becomes abundantly clear that in vitro cell systems from different species and tissues have been and are extremely valuable tools for enabling the discovery and functional elucidation of key mechanobiological players. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the significant contributions of in vitro cell systems to the identification and characterization of three such key players using the selected examples of yes-associated protein (YAP), its paralog transcriptional co-activator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and their involvement in wound healing, cancer, aging, and senescence. In addition, the reader is given suggestions as to which future prospects emerge from the in vitro studies discussed herein and which research questions still remain open.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Steinberg
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Philipp Dieterle
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Imke Ramminger
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestr. 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Klein
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Julie Brossette
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestr. 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ayman Husari
- Center for Dental Medicine, Department of Orthodontics, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Pascal Tomakidi
- Center for Dental Medicine, Division of Oral Biotechnology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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11
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Tang J, Long G, Xiao L, Zhou L. USP8 positively regulates hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis and confers ferroptosis resistance through β-catenin stabilization. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:360. [PMID: 37311739 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05747-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary hepatic carcinoma, which is a growing public health problem worldwide. One of the main genetic alterations in HCC is the deregulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling, activation of β-catenin is associated with the progression of HCC. In the present study, we aimed to identify novel modulators in controlling β-catenin ubiquitination and stability. USP8 was overexpressed in HCC tissues and correlated with β-catenin protein level. High expression of USP8 indicated poor prognosis of HCC patients. USP8 depletion significantly decreased β-catenin protein level, β-catenin target genes expression and TOP-luciferase activity in HCC cells. Further mechanistic study revealed that the USP domain of USP8 interacted with the ARM domain of β-catenin. USP8 stabilized β-catenin protein via inhibiting K48-specific poly-ubiquitination process on β-catenin protein. In addition, USP8 depletion inhibited the proliferation, invasion and stemness of HCC cells and conferred ferroptosis resistance, which effects could be further rescued by β-catenin overexpression. In addition, the USP8 inhibitor DUB-IN-3 inhibited the aggressive phenotype and promoted ferroptosis of HCC cells through degradation of β-catenin. Thus, our study demonstrated that USP8 activated the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling through a post-translational mechanism of β-catenin. High expression of USP8 promoted the progression and inhibited ferroptosis of HCC. Targeting the USP8 may serve as a promising strategy for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Tang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Guo Long
- Department of Liver Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Liang Xiao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Ledu Zhou
- Department of Liver Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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12
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Ji S, Xu M, Cai C, He X. MESP1-knockdown inhibits the proliferation and epithelial mesenchymal transition of hepatocellular carcinoma and enhances the tumor-suppressive effect of 5-fluorouracil. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 670:1-11. [PMID: 37271034 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.036] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Primary liver hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most deadly malignancy worldwide,in part, because it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Thus, molecular markers are needed to aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Expression of abnormal mesoderm posterior-1 (MESP1) promotes tumorigenesis; however,its role in the regulation of HCC proliferation, apoptosis,and invasion is unknown. Here,we analyzed data in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)and Genotype Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases on the pan-cancer expression of MESP1 and its relationship with clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with HCC. The expression of MESP1 was measured in 48 HCC tissues using immunohistochemical staining,and the results were correlated with clinical stage, tumor differentiation, tumor size,and metastasis. MESP1 expression was downregulated using small interfering RNA (siRNA) in the HCC cell lines HepG2 and Hep3B,and cell viability, proliferation,cell cycle, apoptosis,and invasion were analyzed. Finally,we also evaluated the tumor suppression effect of MESP1 downregulation combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment. Our results showed that MESP1 is a pan-oncogene associated with poor prognosis in patients with HCC. siRNA-induced downregulation of MESP1 expression in HepG2 and Hep3B cells exhibited downregulation of β-catenin and GSK3β expression 48h after transfection, along with an increase in apoptosis rate, arrest in the G1-S phase,and a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover,the expression levels of c-Myc, PARP1, bcl2, Snail1, MMP9, and immune checkpoint genes (TIGIT, CTLA4,LAG3,CD274,and PDCD1) were downregulated, while those of caspase3 and E-cadherin were upregulated. Tumor cells also showed decreased migration ability. Furthermore, siRNA interference of MESP1 expression combined with 5-FU-treatment of HCC cells significantly enhanced the G1-S phase block and apoptosis. MESP1 showed an aberrant high expression in HCC and was associated with poor clinical outcomes; therefore, MESP1 may be a potential target for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Ji
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China; Pathological Diagnosis Center of Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China
| | - Man Xu
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China; Pathological Diagnosis Center of Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China.
| | - Chenyu Cai
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China; Pathological Diagnosis Center of Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China
| | - Xinyue He
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China; Pathological Diagnosis Center of Chongqing Medical University, 400016, China
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Morita M, Nishida N, Aoki T, Chishina H, Takita M, Ida H, Hagiwara S, Minami Y, Ueshima K, Kudo M. Role of β-Catenin Activation in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082311. [PMID: 37190239 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the therapeutic combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab was widely used to treat advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). According to recent clinical trials, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and molecular target agents are expected to be key therapeutic strategies in the future. Nonetheless, the mechanisms underlying molecular immune responses and immune evasion remain unclear. The tumor immune microenvironment plays a vital role in HCC progression. The infiltration of CD8-positive cells into tumors and the expression of immune checkpoint molecules are key factors in this immune microenvironment. Specifically, Wnt/β catenin pathway activation causes "immune exclusion", associated with poor infiltration of CD8-positive cells. Some clinical studies suggested an association between ICI resistance and β-catenin activation in HCC. Additionally, several subclassifications of the tumor immune microenvironment were proposed. The HCC immune microenvironment can be broadly divided into inflamed class and non-inflamed class, with several subclasses. β-catenin mutations are important factors in immune subclasses; this may be useful when considering therapeutic strategies as β-catenin activation may serve as a biomarker for ICI. Various types of β-catenin modulators were developed. Several kinases may also be involved in the β-catenin pathway. Therefore, combinations of β-catenin modulators, kinase inhibitors, and ICIs may exert synergistic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Morita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Naoshi Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Tomoko Aoki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Chishina
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Masahiro Takita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Satoru Hagiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Yasunori Minami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Kazuomi Ueshima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
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Kouroumalis E, Tsomidis I, Voumvouraki A. Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Interplay of Apoptosis and Autophagy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041166. [PMID: 37189787 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multifactorial process that has not yet been fully investigated. Autophagy and apoptosis are two important cellular pathways that are critical for cell survival or death. The balance between apoptosis and autophagy regulates liver cell turnover and maintains intracellular homeostasis. However, the balance is often dysregulated in many cancers, including HCC. Autophagy and apoptosis pathways may be either independent or parallel or one may influence the other. Autophagy may either inhibit or promote apoptosis, thus regulating the fate of the liver cancer cells. In this review, a concise overview of the pathogenesis of HCC is presented, with emphasis on new developments, including the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress, the implication of microRNAs and the role of gut microbiota. The characteristics of HCC associated with a specific liver disease are also described and a brief description of autophagy and apoptosis is provided. The role of autophagy and apoptosis in the initiation, progress and metastatic potential is reviewed and the experimental evidence indicating an interplay between the two is extensively analyzed. The role of ferroptosis, a recently described specific pathway of regulated cell death, is presented. Finally, the potential therapeutic implications of autophagy and apoptosis in drug resistance are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, PAGNI University Hospital, University of Crete School of Medicine, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Crete Medical School, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsomidis
- Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Crete Medical School, 71500 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54621 Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54621 Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
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15
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Wang P, Zhu Y, Jia X, Ying X, Sun L, Ruan S. Clinical prognostic value of OSGIN2 in gastric cancer and its proliferative effect in vitro. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5775. [PMID: 37031243 PMCID: PMC10082810 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32934-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored the promoting effect of oxidative stress-induced growth inhibitor family member 2(OSGIN2) on gastric cancer (GC) through public databases and in vitro experiments. The potential relationship between OSGIN2 expression, prognosis, functional enrichment of associated differential genes, immune infiltration, and mutational information in gastric cancer were comprehensively investigated using bioinformatics analysis. OSGIN2 was knocked down using small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection for subsequent cell function testing. The results showed that gastric carcinoma cells and tissues contained high levels of OSGIN2, which was associated with a poor prognosis for GC patients. It was important in the cell cycle, autophagy, etc., and was related to a variety of tumor-related signal pathways. Knockdown of OSGIN2 inhibited tumor cell proliferation and contributed to cell cycle arrest. It was also correlated with tumor immune infiltrating cells (TILs), affecting antitumor immune function. Our analysis highlights that OSING2, as a new biomarker, has diagnostic and prognostic value in gastric cancer and is a potentially effective target in GC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, 310006, China
- Zhejiang Key Lab of Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xinru Jia
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiangchang Ying
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Leitao Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, 310006, China.
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Shanming Ruan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, 310006, China.
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Li J, Qi C, Li Q, Liu F. Construction and validation of an aging-related gene signature for prognosis prediction of patients with breast cancer. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2023; 6:e1741. [PMID: 36323529 PMCID: PMC10026283 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) is an aging-related disease. Aging-related genes (ARGs) participate in the initiation and development of lung and colon cancer, but the prognosis signature of ARGs in BC has not been clearly studied. AIMS This study aimed to construct an ARGs signature to predict the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. METHOD Firstly, the expression data of ARGs from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were collected. Then COX and least absolulute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO) were performed to construct the ARGs prognostic signature. The correlation between the signature and immune cell infiltration, immunotherapeutic response and drug sensitivity were subsequently analysed. The TCGA nomogram was constructed by combining the signature with other clinical features, and was validated by using GEO database. RESULTS After LASSO and COX regression analyses, a prognostic signature based on nine ARGs, namely, HSP90AA1, NFKB2, PLAU, PTK2, RECQL4, CLU, JAK2, MAP3K5, and S100B, was built by using the TCGA dataset. Moreover, this risk signature is closely related to immune cell infiltration, immunotherapeutic response, and responses to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Subsequently, The calibration curve demonstrates that the nomogram agrees well with practical prediction results. The receiver operating characteristic curve and decision-making curve analysis demonstrate that ARG signature has the better prognosis diagnosis ability and clinical net benefits. CONCLUSIONS Therefore, the proposed ARG prognosis signature is a new prognosis molecular marker of patients with BC, and it can provide good references to individual clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai'an City, China
- Postdoctoral Workstation, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng City, China
| | - Chunling Qi
- Department of Laboratory, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai'an City, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai'an City, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai'an City, China
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Stromal nicotinamide N-methyltransferase orchestrates the crosstalk between fibroblasts and tumour cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma: evidence from patient-derived assembled organoids. Oncogene 2023; 42:1166-1180. [PMID: 36823377 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02642-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) has been reported to be linked to methylation reprogramming in cancer cells. However, the role of NNMT in the tumour microenvironment (TME) remains elusive. Here, we found that the expression of NNMT was elevated in the stroma of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Using a fibroblast-attached organoids (FAOs) model, we confirmed that stromal NNMT expression contributed to the generation of assembled tumour organoids. In a tumour regeneration assay with co-implanted OSCC cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the tumour-initiating activity was reduced when NNMT was silenced in CAFs. In contrast, overexpression of NNMT in paracancerous fibroblasts (PFs) accelerated tumour growth in co-inoculation experiments. Notably, fibroblast-specific NNMT can regulate type I collagen deposition in both FAOs and xenografts. Further investigations confirmed that the stromal NNMT-aggravated oncogenic activities were attenuated by treatment with inhibitors of either collagen synthesis (e.g. losartan, tranilast, and halofuginone) in fibroblasts, or the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signal (i.e. defactinib) in cancer cells. Mechanistically, overexpression of NNMT reduced the enrichment of H3K27me3 at the promoter of the gene encoding lysyl oxidase (LOX), a key enzyme that regulates the cross-linking of collagen I. Overall, we propose that the NNMT-LOX-FAK cascade contributes to the crosstalk between cancer cells and fibroblasts during OSCC development, and that NNMT-centric extracellular matrix remodelling is a novel therapeutic target for patients with OSCC.
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Su Y, Choi HS, Choi JH, Kim HS, Jang YS, Seo JW. 7 S,15 R-Dihydroxy-16 S,17 S-epoxy-docosapentaenoic Acid Overcomes Chemoresistance of 5-Fluorouracil by Suppressing the Infiltration of Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Inhibiting the Activation of Cancer Stem Cells in a Colorectal Cancer Xenograft Model. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21020080. [PMID: 36827121 PMCID: PMC9967312 DOI: 10.3390/md21020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the tumor bulk is initially reduced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), chemoresistance developed due to prolonged chemotherapy in colorectal cancer (CRC). The enrichment of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and the infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) contribute to chemoresistance and poor outcomes. A docosahexaenoic acid derivative developed by our group, 7S,15R-dihydroxy-16S,17S-epoxy-docosapentaenoic acid (diHEP-DPA), exerts antitumor effects against TAMs infiltration and CSCs enrichment in our previous study. The current study aimed to investigate whether diHEP-DPA was able to overcome chemoresistance to 5-FU in CRCs, together with the potential synergistic mechanisms in a CT26-BALB/c mouse model. Our results suggested that although 5-FU inhibited tumor growth, 5-FU enriched CSCs via the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, resulting in chemoresistance in CRCs. However, we revealed that 5-FU promoted the infiltration of TAMs via the NF-kB signaling pathway and improved epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via the signal transducer and activator of the transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway; these traits were believed to contribute to CSC activation. Furthermore, supplementation with diHEP-DPA could overcome drug resistance by decreasing the CSCs, suppressing the infiltration of TAMs, and inhibiting EMT progression. Additionally, the combinatorial treatment of diHEP-DPA and 5-FU effectively enhanced phagocytosis by blocking the CD47/signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) axis. These findings present that diHEP-DPA is a potential therapeutic supplement to improve drug outcomes and suppress chemoresistance associated with the current 5-FU-based therapies for colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup-si 56212, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences, The Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju-si 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Hack Sun Choi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju-si 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hyun Choi
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup-si 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Sik Kim
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon-si 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Suk Jang
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences, The Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju-si 54896, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-S.J.); (J.-W.S.); Tel.: +82-63-570-5160 (J.-W.S.)
| | - Jeong-Woo Seo
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup-si 56212, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-S.J.); (J.-W.S.); Tel.: +82-63-570-5160 (J.-W.S.)
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Chen Y, Wang W, Fang L, Zhang Z, Deng S. Identification of PTK2 as an adverse prognostic biomarker in breast cancer by integrated bioinformatics and experimental analyses. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:984564. [PMID: 36533074 PMCID: PMC9751198 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.984564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PTK2 is highly expressed in many cancers and is involved in cell growth, survival, migration, and invasion. However, the prognostic value of PTK2 and its potential function remain unclear in breast cancer. Therefore, we performed a comprehensive analysis of multiple public databases to explore the roles of PTK2. By integrating multiple datasets, we found that PTK2 mRNA expression in breast cancer tissue was higher than that in normal breast tissue or adjacent tissue. High PTK2 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis stage, tumor stage, breast cancer type, age, TP53 mutation, and gender and significantly predicted a poor survival outcome in breast cancer patients. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) results suggested that PTK2 and co-expressed genes participated in the cell cycle. Immune infiltration analysis clarified that high PTK2 expression was positively correlated with infiltrating levels of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. The DNA methylation of PTK2 in breast cancer tissues was higher than that in normal tissues, and high PTK2 methylation was correlated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Furthermore, 16 possible ceRNA networks related to PTK2 were constructed for breast cancer. Additionally, PTK2 knockdown could suppress the proliferation and migration ability of MCF-7 cells. These results suggest that PTK2 can be used as a prognostic biomarker for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanru Chen
- North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging and school of Medicine Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
- Department of Academician (expert) Workstation, Biological Targeting Laboratory of Breast Cancer, Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingyu Fang
- North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging and school of Medicine Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
- Department of Academician (expert) Workstation, Biological Targeting Laboratory of Breast Cancer, Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenyang Zhang
- North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging and school of Medicine Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
- Department of Academician (expert) Workstation, Biological Targeting Laboratory of Breast Cancer, Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
| | - Shishan Deng
- North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging and school of Medicine Imaging, North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
- Department of Academician (expert) Workstation, Biological Targeting Laboratory of Breast Cancer, Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Sichuan, China
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20
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Destroying the Shield of Cancer Stem Cells: Natural Compounds as Promising Players in Cancer Therapy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11236996. [PMID: 36498571 PMCID: PMC9737492 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11236996] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In a scenario where eco-sustainability and a reduction in chemotherapeutic drug waste are certainly a prerogative to safeguard the biosphere, the use of natural products (NPs) represents an alternative therapeutic approach to counteract cancer diseases. The presence of a heterogeneous cancer stem cell (CSC) population within a tumor bulk is related to disease recurrence and therapy resistance. For this reason, CSC targeting presents a promising strategy for hampering cancer recurrence. Increasing evidence shows that NPs can inhibit crucial signaling pathways involved in the maintenance of CSC stemness and sensitize CSCs to standard chemotherapeutic treatments. Moreover, their limited toxicity and low costs for large-scale production could accelerate the use of NPs in clinical settings. In this review, we will summarize the most relevant studies regarding the effects of NPs derived from major natural sources, e.g., food, botanical, and marine species, on CSCs, elucidating their use in pre-clinical and clinical studies.
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21
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Leung RWH, Lee TKW. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Stemness and Metabolic Reprogramming in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14215468. [PMID: 36358885 PMCID: PMC9656505 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been reported to play crucial role in pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this review, we focus on the regulatory role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer stemness and metabolic reprogramming, which are two emerging hallmarks of cancer. Understanding the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in regulation of the above processes reveals novel therapeutic strategy against this deadly disease. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer death worldwide due to its high rates of tumor recurrence and metastasis. Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been shown to play a significant role in HCC development, progression and clinical impact on tumor behavior. Accumulating evidence has revealed the critical involvement of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in driving cancer stemness and metabolic reprogramming, which are regarded as emerging cancer hallmarks. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its role in HCC. Furthermore, we provide an update on the regulatory roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in metabolic reprogramming, cancer stemness and drug resistance in HCC. We also provide an update on preclinical and clinical studies targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling alone or in combination with current therapies for effective cancer therapy. This review provides insights into the current opportunities and challenges of targeting this signaling pathway in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainbow Wing Hei Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-3400-8799; Fax: +852-2364-9932
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22
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Zhang Z, Li J, Jiao S, Han G, Zhu J, Liu T. Functional and clinical characteristics of focal adhesion kinases in cancer progression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1040311. [PMID: 36407100 PMCID: PMC9666724 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1040311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase and an adaptor protein that primarily regulates adhesion signaling and cell migration. FAK promotes cell survival in response to stress. Increasing evidence has shown that at the pathological level, FAK is highly expressed in multiple tumors in several systems (including lung, liver, gastric, and colorectal cancers) and correlates with tumor aggressiveness and patient prognosis. At the molecular level, FAK promotes tumor progression mainly by altering survival signals, invasive capacity, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, the tumor microenvironment, the Warburg effect, and stemness of tumor cells. Many effective drugs have been developed based on the comprehensive role of FAK in tumor cells. In addition, its potential as a tumor marker cannot be ignored. Here, we discuss the pathological and pre-clinical evidence of the role of FAK in cancer development; we hope that these findings will assist in FAK-based clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyu Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jinlong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Simin Jiao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Guangda Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaming Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Tianzhou Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- *Correspondence: Tianzhou Liu,
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23
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Chang CK, Chu SC, Huang JY, Chen PN, Hsieh YS. Terminalia catappa leaf extracts inhibited metastasis of A2058 and A375 melanoma cells via downregulating p-Src and β-catenin pathway in vitro. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:963589. [PMID: 36238547 PMCID: PMC9551286 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.963589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Melanoma is a highly aggressive, lethal, and malignant cancer. Once diagnosed early, it can be easily removed and cured with satisfaction. Although many methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy have been used to treat this disease at an advanced stage, the outcomes are poor. Terminalia catappa leaves have been shown to have various biological benefits, including antitumor activity. The specific effects and molecular mechanisms of Terminalia catappa leaf in treating A2058 and A375 melanoma cells in vitro need to be clarified.Methods: The A2058 and A375 melanoma cancer cells were treated with Terminalia catappa leaf extracts, and then the effect of Terminalia catappa leaf extracts on migration and invasion was examined. The cell migration/invasion capacities of A2058 and A375 cells were investigated by a modified Boyden chamber assay. Zymography was used to clarify the activities of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and urinary type plasminogen activator. We performed a Western blot to verify the related expression of phospho-Src (Tyr416), phospho-Focal adhesion kinase (Tyr397), Vimentin, and β-catenin.Results: Modified Boyden chamber assays demonstrated that treatment of Terminalia catappa leaf extracts significantly inhibited A2058 and A375 cell migration/invasion capacities. In the zymography results, we showed that Terminalia catappa leaf extracts negatively modulated the activities of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and urinary type plasminogen activator. Western blot indicated that Terminalia catappa leaf extracts reduced the expression of phospho-Src (Tyr416), phospho-Focal adhesion kinase (Tyr397), Vimentin, and β-catenin.Conclusion:Terminalia catappa leaf extracts affected the antimetastasis of the A2058 and A375 melanoma cell lines by inhibiting the Focal adhesion kinase/Src interaction and Wingless-int1/β-catenin pathways in vitro. Terminalia catappa leaf extracts may serve as an effective chemopreventive agent against metastasis of melanoma cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Kuo Chang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chen Chu
- Institute and Department of Food Science, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Yang Huang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ni Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Pei-Ni Chen, ; Yih-Shou Hsieh,
| | - Yih-Shou Hsieh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Pei-Ni Chen, ; Yih-Shou Hsieh,
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24
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Mechanisms of resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in liver cancer stem cells and potential therapeutic approaches. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:371-386. [PMID: 35818992 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The administration of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for the treatment of advanced-stage patients is common in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, therapy resistance is often encountered, and its emergence eventually curtails long-term clinical benefits. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are essential drivers of tumor recurrence and therapy resistance; thus, the elucidation of key hallmarks of resistance mechanisms of liver CSC-driven HCC may help improve patient outcomes and reduce relapse. The present review provides a comprehensive summary of the intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms of TKI resistance in liver CSCs, which mediate treatment failure, and discusses potential strategies to overcome TKI resistance from a preclinical perspective.
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25
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Prostanoid Signaling in Cancers: Expression and Regulation Patterns of Enzymes and Receptors. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040590. [PMID: 35453789 PMCID: PMC9029281 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated disturbance of prostanoid signaling provides an aberrant accumulation of prostanoids. This signaling consists of 19 target genes, encoding metabolic enzymes and G-protein-coupled receptors, and prostanoids (prostacyclin, thromboxane, and prostaglandins E2, F2α, D2, H2). The study addresses the systems biology analysis of target genes in 24 solid tumors using a data mining pipeline. We analyzed differential expression patterns of genes and proteins, promoter methylation status as well as tissue-specific master regulators and microRNAs. Tumor types were clustered into several groups according to gene expression patterns. Target genes were characterized as low mutated in tumors, with the exception of melanoma. We found at least six ubiquitin ligases and eight protein kinases that post-translationally modified the most connected proteins PTGES3 and PTGIS. Models of regulation of PTGIS and PTGIR gene expression in lung and uterine cancers were suggested. For the first time, we found associations between the patient’s overall survival rates with nine multigene transcriptomics signatures in eight tumors. Expression patterns of each of the six target genes have predictive value with respect to cytostatic therapy response. One of the consequences of the study is an assumption of prostanoid-dependent (or independent) tumor phenotypes. Thus, pharmacologic targeting the prostanoid signaling could be a probable additional anticancer strategy.
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26
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Xu C, Xu Z, Zhang Y, Evert M, Calvisi DF, Chen X. β-Catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:154515. [PMID: 35166233 PMCID: PMC8843739 DOI: 10.1172/jci154515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling is one of the main genetic alterations in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Comprehensive genomic analyses have revealed that gain-of-function mutation of CTNNB1, which encodes β-catenin, and loss-of-function mutation of AXIN1 occur in approximately 35% of human HCC samples. Human HCCs with activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway demonstrate unique gene expression patterns and pathological features. Activated Wnt/β-catenin synergizes with multiple signaling cascades to drive HCC formation, and it functions through its downstream effectors. Therefore, strategies targeting Wnt/β-catenin have been pursued as possible therapeutics against HCC. Here, we review the genetic alterations and oncogenic roles of aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling during hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, we discuss the implication of this pathway in HCC diagnosis, classification, and personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanrui Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diego F Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
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27
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Liu C, Pan J, Liu H, Lin R, Chen Y, Zhang C. Daphnetin inhibits the survival of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Drug Dev Res 2022; 83:952-960. [PMID: 35132666 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Evidence has demonstrated that Daphnetin has antiangiogenesis activity, indicating it might be a new multi-targeted medication for cancer therapy. Here, we aimed to reveal Daphnetin role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and the underlying mechanism. Huh7 and SK-HEP-1, two human HCC cell lines were used in this study. MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), colony formation, flow cytometry, and tumor-bearing experiments were applied to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of Daphnetin on cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, and in vivo tumor formation, respectively. Real-time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)and western blotting were applied to measure the mRNA and protein levels of β-catenin. We observed that Daphnetin inhibited cell viability and tumorigenesis, promoted cell apoptosis, and induced a G1 phase arrest in a dose-dependent manner in both Huh7 and SK-HEP-1 cells, which were rescued by SKL2001, an activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Taken together, this study reveals that Daphnetin exerts an antitumor role in HCC through the inactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohui Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Jiansheng Pan
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Rongkai Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yijie Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Chenghua Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The 910th Hospital, Quanzhou, China
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28
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FAK in Cancer: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031726. [PMID: 35163650 PMCID: PMC8836199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, is overexpressed and activated in many cancer types. FAK regulates diverse cellular processes, including growth factor signaling, cell cycle progression, cell survival, cell motility, angiogenesis, and the establishment of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments through kinase-dependent and kinase-independent scaffolding functions in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Mounting evidence has indicated that targeting FAK, either alone or in combination with other agents, may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms underlying FAK-mediated signaling networks during tumor development. We also summarize the recent progress of FAK-targeted small-molecule compounds for anticancer activity from preclinical and clinical evidence.
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29
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Marin JJG, Romero MR, Herraez E, Asensio M, Ortiz-Rivero S, Sanchez-Martin A, Fabris L, Briz O. Mechanisms of Pharmacoresistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: New Drugs but Old Problems. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:87-103. [PMID: 34544160 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy with poor prognosis when diagnosed at advanced stages in which curative treatments are no longer applicable. A small group of these patients may still benefit from transarterial chemoembolization. The only therapeutic option for most patients with advanced HCC is systemic pharmacological treatments based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immunotherapy. Available drugs only slightly increase survival, as tumor cells possess additive and synergistic mechanisms of pharmacoresistance (MPRs) prior to or enhanced during treatment. Understanding the molecular basis of MPRs is crucial to elucidate the genetic signature underlying HCC resistome. This will permit the selection of biomarkers to predict drug treatment response and identify tumor weaknesses in a personalized and dynamic way. In this article, we have reviewed the role of MPRs in current first-line drugs and the combinations of immunotherapeutic agents with novel TKIs being tested in the treatment of advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J G Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Herraez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Ortiz-Rivero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Anabel Sanchez-Martin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Luca Fabris
- Department of Molecular Medicine (DMM), University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Liver Center (YLC), School of Medicine, Yale University New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEPHARM), University of Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
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30
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Dong X, Yang Y, Yuan Q, Hou J, Wu G. High Expression of CEMIP Correlates Poor Prognosis and the Tumur Microenvironment in Breast Cancer as a Promisingly Prognostic Biomarker. Front Genet 2021; 12:768140. [PMID: 34966410 PMCID: PMC8710689 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.768140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell migration-inducing hyaluronidase 1 (CEMIP), a Wnt-related protein and also known as KIAA1199, is implicated in the process of metastatic colonization in a variety of malignant tumors, including breast cancer (BC), which is one of the most frequently diagnosed tumors in women worldwide. In this study, multiple public databases, online analytical tools, and bioinformatics approaches were applied to explore the expression levels, regulatory mechanisms, and biological functions of CEMIP in BC. We illustrated that CEMIP was highly expressed in various kinds of carcinomas, including BC, especially advanced subtypes, and predicted less favorable prognosis (negatively associated with overall survival) in BC patients, which might be an independent prognostic factor. Then, we revealed that the mutation and high expression of CEMIP might lead to it as an oncogene. We also demonstrated that TP53 mutation, DNA hypo-methylation, and the expression changes of three potential upstream transcription factors (EZH2, EGR1, and JUN) of CEMIP were likely to cause the hyperexpression of CEMIP in BC. Moreover, our findings suggested that CEMIP might exert its carcinogenic roles in the tumor microenvironment via participation in the extracellular matrix formation, increasing cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF), M2 macrophage, and neutrophil infiltration and decreasing CD8+ T cell infiltration. In summary, our study provided more solid evidence for CEMIP as a prognostic and metastatic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in BC. Of course, these findings also need more confirmations of basic experiments and further clinical trials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Dong
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yalong Yang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianqian Yuan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinxuan Hou
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Gaosong Wu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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31
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Khashkhashi Moghadam S, Bakhshinejad B, Khalafizadeh A, Mahmud Hussen B, Babashah S. Non-coding RNA-associated competitive endogenous RNA regulatory networks: Novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 26:287-305. [PMID: 34907642 PMCID: PMC8743668 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as the most prevalent liver malignancy, is annually diagnosed in more than half a million people worldwide. HCC is strongly associated with hepatitis B and C viral infections as well as alcohol abuse. Obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) also significantly enhance the risk of liver cancer. Despite recent improvements in therapeutic approaches, patients diagnosed in advanced stages show poor prognosis. Accumulating evidence provides support for the regulatory role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in cancer. There are a variety of reports indicating the regulatory role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in different stages of HCC. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) exert their effects by sponging miRNAs and controlling the expression of miRNA-targeted genes. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) perform their biological functions by acting as transcriptional regulators, miRNA sponges and protein templates. Diverse studies have illustrated that dysregulation of competing endogenous RNA networks (ceRNETs) is remarkably correlated with HCC-causing diseases such as chronic viral infections, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. The aim of the current article was to provide an overview of the role and molecular mechanisms underlying the function of ceRNETs that modulate the characteristics of HCC such as uncontrolled cell proliferation, resistance to cell death, metabolic reprogramming, immune escape, angiogenesis and metastasis. The current knowledge highlights the potential of these regulatory RNA molecules as novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Babak Bakhshinejad
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khalafizadeh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.,Center of Research and Strategic Studies, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Sadegh Babashah
- Research and Development Center of Biotechnology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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32
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Yang H, Zhang MZH, Sun HW, Chai YT, Li X, Jiang Q, Hou J. A Novel Microcrystalline BAY-876 Formulation Achieves Long-Acting Antitumor Activity Against Aerobic Glycolysis and Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:783194. [PMID: 34869036 PMCID: PMC8636331 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.783194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BAY-876 is an effective antagonist of the Glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) receptor, a mediator of aerobic glycolysis, a biological process considered a hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) together with cell proliferation, drug-resistance, and metastasis. However, the clinical application of BAY-876 has faced many challenges. In the presence study, we describe the formulation of a novel microcrystalline BAY-876 formulation. A series of HCC tumor models were established to determine not only the sustained release of microcrystalline BAY-876, but also its long-acting antitumor activity. The clinical role of BAY-876 was confirmed by the increased expression of GLUT1, which was associated with the worse prognosis among advanced HCC patients. A single dose of injection of microcrystalline BAY-876 directly in the HCC tissue achieved sustained localized levels of Bay-876. Moreover, the single injection of microcrystalline BAY-876 in HCC tissues not only inhibited glucose uptake and prolonged proliferation of HCC cells, but also inhibited the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors. Thus, the microcrystalline BAY-876 described in this study can directly achieve promising localized effects, given its limited diffusion to other tissues, thereby reducing the occurrence of potential side effects, and providing an additional option for advanced HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Cancer Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy, Baoding, China
| | - Mu-Zi-He Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Wei Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Tao Chai
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Hou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Romito I, Porru M, Braghini MR, Pompili L, Panera N, Crudele A, Gnani D, De Stefanis C, Scarsella M, Pomella S, Levi Mortera S, de Billy E, Conti AL, Marzano V, Putignani L, Vinciguerra M, Balsano C, Pastore A, Rota R, Tartaglia M, Leonetti C, Alisi A. Focal adhesion kinase inhibitor TAE226 combined with Sorafenib slows down hepatocellular carcinoma by multiple epigenetic effects. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:364. [PMID: 34784956 PMCID: PMC8597092 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumours worldwide. Sorafenib (SOR) is one of the most effective single-drug systemic therapy against advanced HCC, but the identification of novel combination regimens for a continued improvement in overall survival is a big challenge. Recent studies highlighted the crucial role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in HCC growth. The aim of this study was to investigate the antitumor effects of three different FAK inhibitors (FAKi), alone or in combination with SOR, using in vitro and in vivo models of HCC. Methods The effect of PND1186, PF431396, TAE226 on cell viability was compared to SOR. Among them TAE226, emerging as the most effective FAKi, was tested alone or in combination with SOR using 2D/3D human HCC cell line cultures and HCC xenograft murine models. The mechanisms of action were assessed by gene/protein expression and imaging approaches, combined with high-throughput methods. Results TAE226 was the more effective FAKi to be combined with SOR against HCC. Combined TAE226 and SOR treatment reduced HCC growth both in vitro and in vivo by affecting tumour-promoting gene expression and inducing epigenetic changes via dysregulation of FAK nuclear interactome. We characterized a novel nuclear functional interaction between FAK and the NuRD complex. TAE226-mediated FAK depletion and SOR-promoted MAPK down-modulation caused a decrease in the nuclear amount of HDAC1/2 and a consequent increase of the histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation, thus counteracting histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation. Conclusions Altogether, our findings provide the first evidence that TAE226 combined with SOR efficiently reduces HCC growth in vitro and in vivo. Also, our data highlight that deep analysis of FAK nuclear interactome may lead to the identification of new promising targets for HCC therapy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02154-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Romito
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Via S. Paolo, 15, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Porru
- Unit of Oncogenomic and Epigenetic, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Braghini
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Via S. Paolo, 15, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Pompili
- Unit of Oncogenomic and Epigenetic, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Nadia Panera
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Via S. Paolo, 15, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Crudele
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Via S. Paolo, 15, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Gnani
- Experimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marco Scarsella
- Core Facilities, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Pomella
- Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Levi Mortera
- Unit of Human Microbiome, Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuel de Billy
- Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Marzano
- Unit of Human Microbiome, Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenza Putignani
- Unit of Human Microbiome, Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Unit of Microbiomics, Microbiology and Immunological Diagnostics, Department of Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, 9002, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Clara Balsano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences MESVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.,Francesco Balsano Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Pastore
- Research Unit of Diagnostical and Management Innovations, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Leonetti
- Unit of Oncogenomic and Epigenetic, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Alisi
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Via S. Paolo, 15, 00146, Rome, Italy.
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Parker TM, Gupta K, Palma AM, Yekelchyk M, Fisher PB, Grossman SR, Won KJ, Madan E, Moreno E, Gogna R. Cell competition in intratumoral and tumor microenvironment interactions. EMBO J 2021; 40:e107271. [PMID: 34368984 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020107271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors are complex cellular and acellular environments within which cancer clones are under continuous selection pressures. Cancer cells are in a permanent mode of interaction and competition with each other as well as with the immediate microenvironment. In the course of these competitive interactions, cells share information regarding their general state of fitness, with less-fit cells being typically eliminated via apoptosis at the hands of those cells with greater cellular fitness. Competitive interactions involving exchange of cell fitness information have implications for tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy outcomes. Recent research has highlighted sophisticated pathways such as Flower, Hippo, Myc, and p53 signaling, which are employed by cancer cells and the surrounding microenvironment cells to achieve their evolutionary goals by means of cell competition mechanisms. In this review, we discuss these recent findings and explain their importance and role in evolution, growth, and treatment of cancer. We further consider potential physiological conditions, such as hypoxia and chemotherapy, that can function as selective pressures under which cell competition mechanisms may evolve differently or synergistically to confer oncogenic advantages to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Parker
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kartik Gupta
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Michail Yekelchyk
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodelling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Paul B Fisher
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.,VCU Massey Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.,VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Steven R Grossman
- Department of Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kyoung Jae Won
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen North, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology, DanStem, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen North, Denmark
| | - Esha Madan
- Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Rajan Gogna
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen North, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology, DanStem, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen North, Denmark
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35
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Zeng Z, Lu Q, Liu Y, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Hu L, Shi Z, Tu Y, Xiao Z, Xu Q, Huang D. Effect of the Hypoxia Inducible Factor on Sorafenib Resistance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:641522. [PMID: 34307125 PMCID: PMC8292964 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.641522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib a multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is the first-line drug for treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mechanistically, it suppresses tumor angiogenesis, cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis. Although sorafenib effectively prolongs median survival rates of patients with advanced HCC, its efficacy is limited by drug resistance in some patients. In HCC, this resistance is attributed to multiple complex mechanisms. Previous clinical data has shown that HIFs expression is a predictor of poor prognosis, with further evidence demonstrating that a combination of sorafenib and HIFs-targeted therapy or HIFs inhibitors can overcome HCC sorafenib resistance. Here, we describe the molecular mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance in HCC patients, and highlight the impact of hypoxia microenvironment on sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zeng
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiliang Lu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Liu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjun Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.,Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Linjun Hu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Shi
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Tu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zunqiang Xiao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiuran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
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36
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Tsai SCS, Yang KD, Chang KH, Lin FCF, Chou RH, Li MC, Cheng CC, Kao CY, Chen CP, Lin HC, Hsu YC. Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Exosomes Rescue the Loss of Outer Hair Cells and Repair Cochlear Damage in Cisplatin-Injected Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136664. [PMID: 34206364 PMCID: PMC8267798 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UCMSCs) have potential applications in regenerative medicine. UCMSCs have been demonstrated to repair tissue damage in many inflammatory and degenerative diseases. We have previously shown that UCMSC exosomes reduce nerve injury-induced pain in rats. In this study, we characterized UCMSC exosomes using RNA sequencing and proteomic analyses and investigated their protective effects on cisplatin-induced hearing loss in mice. Two independent experiments were designed to investigate the protective effects on cisplatin-induced hearing loss in mice: (i) chronic intraperitoneal cisplatin administration (4 mg/kg) once per day for 5 consecutive days and intraperitoneal UCMSC exosome (1.2 μg/μL) injection at the same time point; and (ii) UCMSC exosome (1.2 μg/μL) injection through a round window niche 3 days after chronic cisplatin administration. Our data suggest that UCMSC exosomes exert protective effects in vivo. The post-traumatic administration of UCMSC exosomes significantly improved hearing loss and rescued the loss of cochlear hair cells in mice receiving chronic cisplatin injection. Neuropathological gene panel analyses further revealed the UCMSC exosomes treatment led to beneficial changes in the expression levels of many genes in the cochlear tissues of cisplatin-injected mice. In conclusion, UCMSC exosomes exerted protective effects in treating ototoxicity-induced hearing loss by promoting tissue remodeling and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Chin-Shaw Tsai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tungs’ Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan;
- Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, 145, Guoguang Rd., South Dist., Taichung City 402, Taiwan
| | - Kuender D. Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan; (K.D.Y.); (C.-P.C.)
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 251, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Hsi Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Tungs’ Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Taichung 435, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406, Taiwan;
- General Education Center, Jen-Teh Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Miaoli 356, Taiwan
| | - Frank Cheau-Feng Lin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Ruey-Hwang Chou
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406, Taiwan;
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 406, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 413, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chih Li
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Chang Cheng
- Laboratory Animal Service Center, Office of Research and Development, China Medical University, Taichung 406, Taiwan;
| | - Chien-Yu Kao
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Industry Technology and Development Center, New Taipei City 248, Taiwan;
| | - Chie-Pein Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan; (K.D.Y.); (C.-P.C.)
| | - Hung-Ching Lin
- Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Chao Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan;
- Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-26360303 (ext. 1721)
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37
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Zhang S, Lu Y, Jiang HY, Cheng ZM, Wei ZJ, Wei YH, Liu T, Xia BJ, Zhao XY, Huang Y, Zou X, Liu R, Zhou S. CircC16orf62 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through the miR-138-5p/PTK2/AKT axis. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:597. [PMID: 34108451 PMCID: PMC8190090 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03866-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNAs) functions vital in the pathogenesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the expressions and functions of certain circRNAs on metastasis and proliferation of that cancer is still unclear. Bioinformation analysis and qRT-PCR indicated that CircC16orf62 was prominent upregulated in HCC of which the expression level was positively associated to cancer’s malignant progression. Gain or loss-of-function studies indicated that the reduction of CircC16orf62 expression promotes the proliferation, invasion, and glycolysis of HCC in vitro and in vivo. The bioinformatic analysis found that miR-138-5p and PTK2 were the downstream target of CircC16or62. Then, the FISH(Fluorescence immunoin situ hybridization) and cell nucleoplasmic separation determined that CircC16orf62 located in the cell cytoplasm. Plasmid vectors or siRNAs were used to change the expression of CircC16orf62, miR-138-5p, and PTK2 in PC cell lines. CircC16orf62 functioned as a molecular sponge for miR-138-5p, and a competitive endogenous RNA for PTK2, promoting AKT/mTOR pathway activation. Our observations lead us to conclude that CircC16orf62 functions as an oncogene in HCC progression, behaving as a competitive endogenous RNA for miR-138-5p binding, thus activating the AKT/mTOR pathway. In conclusion, CircC16orf62 is an oncogene through the miR-138-5p/PTK2/Akt axis in HCC cells, indicating CircC16orf62 can be a therapeutic target with potentiality for liver cancer and a predictive marker for people with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China.,Department of Interventional Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China.,Department of Cancer Research Laboratory, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Yu Jiang
- Department of Cancer Research Laboratory, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Mei Cheng
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China
| | - Zi-Jing Wei
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Hao Wei
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Ting Liu
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China
| | - Bai-Juan Xia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China
| | - Xu-Ya Zhao
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Xun Zou
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China
| | - Rong Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, 550000, P.R. China
| | - Shi Zhou
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, P.R. China.
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38
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Zou XZ, Zhou XH, Feng YQ, Hao JF, Liang B, Jia MW. Novel inhibitor of OCT1 enhances the sensitivity of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells to antitumor agents. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 907:174222. [PMID: 34087221 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most fatal malignancies of the digestive system, and shows an especially high incidence in some regions of China. Octamer transcription factors are a family of transcription factors whose DNA-binding domain is a POU domain. OCT transcription factors (OCT-TFs) mediate maintenance of the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells. We measured expression of OCT-TFs in ESCC clinical specimens. Among the OCTs tested, OCT1 showed the highest expression in ESCC tissues. Using molecular docking, we discovered a small-molecule inhibitor, which we named "novel inhibitor of OCT1" (NIO-1), for OCT1. Treatment with NIO-1 inhibited recruitment of OCT1 to the promoter region of its downstream genes and, consequently, repressed OCT1 activation. Treatment with NIO-1 enhanced the susceptibility of ESCC cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Therefore, OCT1 may be a valuable target for ESCC treatment, and NIO-1 could be a promising therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Zheng Zou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Xiu-Hua Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Ying-Qi Feng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Jun-Feng Hao
- Department of Nephrology, Jin Qiu Hospital of Liaoning Province / Geriatric Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Bing Liang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Meng-Wei Jia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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39
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Wang ZX, Chu HW, Yang KG, Zhao BF, Liang Z, Zhang LH, Zhang YK. Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of the Sorafenib Resistance in HepG2 Cells. JOURNAL OF ANALYSIS AND TESTING 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s41664-021-00176-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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40
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Tsai SCS, Lin FCF, Chang KH, Li MC, Chou RH, Huang MY, Chen YC, Kao CY, Cheng CC, Lin HC, Hsu YC. The intravenous administration of skin-derived mesenchymal stem cells ameliorates hearing loss and preserves cochlear hair cells in cisplatin-injected mice: SMSCs ameliorate hearing loss and preserve outer hair cells in mice. Hear Res 2021; 413:108254. [PMID: 34020824 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2021.108254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be isolated from different tissue origins, such as the bone marrow, the placenta, the umbilical cord, adipose tissues, and skin tissues. MSCs can secrete anti-inflammatory molecules and growth factors for tissue repair and remodeling. However, the ability of skin-derived MSCs (SMSCs) to repair cochlear damage and ameliorate hearing loss remains unclear. Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent that has the side effect of ototoxicity due to inflammation and oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of SMSCs on cisplatin-induced hearing loss in mice. Two independent experiments were designed for modeling cisplatin-induced hearing loss in mice, one for chronic toxicity (4 mg/kg intraperitoneal [IP] injection once per day for 5 consecutive days) and the other for acute toxicity (25 mg/kg IP injection once on day one). Three days after cisplatin injection, 1 × 106 or 3 × 106 SMSCs were injected through the tail vein. Data on auditory brain responses suggested that SMSCs could significantly reduce the hearing threshold of cisplatin-injected mice. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining data suggested that SMSCs could significantly ameliorate the loss of cochlear hair cells, TUNEL-positive cells and cleaved caspase 3-positive cells in cisplatin-injected mice. Neuropathological gene analyses revealed that SMSCs treatment could downregulate the expression of cochlear genes involved in apoptosis, autophagy, chromatin modification, disease association, matrix remodeling, oxidative stress, tissue integrity, transcription, and splicing and unfolded protein responses. Additionally, SMSCs treatment could upregulate the expression of cochlear genes affecting the axon and dendrite structures, cytokines, trophic factors, the neuronal skeleton and those involved in carbohydrate metabolism, growth factor signaling, myelination, neural connectivity, neural transmitter release, neural transmitter response and reuptake, neural transmitter synthesis and storage, and vesicle trafficking. Results from TUNEL and caspase 3 staining further confirmed that cisplatin-induced apoptosis in cochlear tissues of cisplatin-injected mice could be reduced by SMSCs treatment. In conclusion, the evidence of the effects of SMSCs in favor of ameliorating ototoxicity-induced hearing loss suggests a potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Chin-Shaw Tsai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tungs' Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - Kuang-Hsi Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Tungs' Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; General Education Center, Jen-Teh Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chih Li
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Ruey-Hwang Chou
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Yue Huang
- Maria Von Med-Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chien-Yu Kao
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Industry Technology and Development Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chang Cheng
- Laboratory Animal Service Center, Office of Research and Development, China Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ching Lin
- Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Otolaryngology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chao Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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41
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Thymoquinone, as a Novel Therapeutic Candidate of Cancers. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040369. [PMID: 33923474 PMCID: PMC8074212 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, natural products are widely used as pharmaceutical agents for many human diseases and cancers. One of the most popular natural products that have been studied for anticancer properties is thymoquinone (TQ). As a bioactive compound of Nigella sativa, TQ has shown anticancer activities through the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The anticancer efficacy of TQ is being investigated in several human cancers such as pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, colon cancer, hepatic cancer, cervical cancer, and leukemia. Even though TQ induces apoptosis by regulating the expression of pro- apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes in many cancers, the TQ effect mechanism on such cancers is not yet fully understood. Therefore, the present review has highlighted the TQ effect mechanisms on several signaling pathways and expression of tumor suppressor genes (TSG). Data from relevant published experimental articles on TQ from 2015 to June 2020 were selected by using Google Scholar and PubMed search engines. The present study investigated the effectiveness of TQ alone or in combination with other anticancer therapeutic agents, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors on cancers, as a future anticancer therapy nominee by using nanotechnology.
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42
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Li Q, Sun M, Wang M, Feng M, Yang F, Li L, Zhao J, Chang C, Dong H, Xie T, Chen J. Dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by protein kinases in hepatocellular carcinoma and its therapeutic application. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:1695-1706. [PMID: 33605517 PMCID: PMC8088956 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is indispensable for many biological processes, including embryonic development, cell cycle, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. Aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling can promote tumorigenicity and enhance metastatic potential in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Targeting this pathway is a new opportunity for precise medicine for HCC. However, inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling alone is unlikely to significantly improve HCC patient outcome due to the lack of specific inhibitors and the complexity of this pathway. Combination with other therapies will be an important next step in improving the efficacy of Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitors. Protein kinases play a key and evolutionarily conserved role in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and have become one of the most important drug targets in cancer. Targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its regulatory kinase together will be a promising HCC management strategy. In this review, we summarize the kinases that modulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC and briefly discuss their molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we list some small molecules that target the kinases and may inhibit Wnt/β-catenin signaling, to offer new perspectives for preclinical and clinical HCC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengqing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Menglan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengqing Feng
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lina Li
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianbo Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cunjie Chang
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Heng Dong
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tian Xie
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianxiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China.,Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Laboratory of Cancer Genomics, National Cancer Centre, Singapore City, Singapore
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Zhao W, Ma B, Tian Z, Han H, Tang J, Dong B, An G, Cao B, Wang B. Inhibiting CBX4 efficiently protects hepatocellular carcinoma cells against sorafenib resistance. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:1237-1248. [PMID: 33473171 PMCID: PMC8007794 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01240-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the possible role of inhibiting chromobox protein homologue 4 (CBX4) to deregulate of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and to evaluate the contribution of these molecules to sorafenib resistance in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS HCC cell lines and a xenograft mouse model with resistance to sorafenib were employed to analyse the effects of miR424 on CSC characteristics. RNA expression was analysed by RT-PCR and next-generation sequencing in a cohort of HCC cancer patients and sorafenib-resistant (SR) cell lines, respectively, to validate the key microRNAs and targets in the network. RESULTS MicroRNA and mRNA profiles of SR cell lines identified miR424 and its direct target CBX4 as significantly associated with stem-cell-like properties, poor survival, and clinical characteristics. Functional experiments demonstrated that miR424 suppressed CBX4 and CBX4 induced nuclear translocation of YAP1 protein but was not associated with protein production. When YAP1 and CBX4 were modulated with CA3 and UNC3866, tumorigenicity and stem-like properties were extremely inhibited, thus indicating that these compounds exerted a strong anti-tumour effect in vivo against SR HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed that blocking CBX4 expression is critical in response to sorafenib resistance with advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Bo Ma
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Lymphoma, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhihua Tian
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Central Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Haibo Han
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Laboratory Center, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jintian Tang
- grid.459346.90000 0004 1758 0312Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 830011 Urumqi, Xinjiang P.R. China
| | - Bin Dong
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Central Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Guo An
- grid.412474.00000 0001 0027 0586Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Laboratory Animal, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, 100142 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Baoshan Cao
- grid.411642.40000 0004 0605 3760Department of Medical Oncology and Radiation Sickness, Peking University Third Hospital, 100191 Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Boqing Wang
- grid.459346.90000 0004 1758 0312Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 830011 Urumqi, Xinjiang P.R. China
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Chen QL, Yan Q, Feng KL, Xie CF, Fang CK, Wang JN, Liu LH, Li Y, Zhong C. Using Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis to Identify Abnormally Methylated Differentially Expressed Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:805-823. [PMID: 33732011 PMCID: PMC7956867 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s294505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective For the identification of abnormally methylated differentially expressed genes (MDEGs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), this study integrated four microarray datasets to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Methods We obtained the expression (GSE76427, GSE57957) and methylation (GSE89852, GSE54503) profiles from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The abnormally MDEGs were identified by using R software. We used the clusterProfiler package for the functional and pathway enrichment analysis. The String database was used to build the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and visualize it in Cytoscape. MCODE was employed in the module analysis. Additionally, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were employed to validate results. Lastly, we used cBioPortal software to examine the hub genetic alterations. Results We identified 162 hypermethylated, down-regulated genes and 190 hypomethylated, up-regulated genes. Up-regulated genes with low methylation were enriched in biological processes, such as keratinocyte proliferation, and calcium homeostasis. Pathway analysis was enriched in the AMPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. The PPI network identified PTK2, VWF, and ITGA2 as hypomethylated, high-expressing hub genes. Down-regulated genes with high methylation were related to responses to peptide hormones and estradiol, multi-multicellular organism process. Pathway analysis indicated enrichment in camp, oxytocin signaling pathways. The PPI network identified CFTR, ESR1, and CXCL12 as hypermethylated, low-expressing hub genes. Upon verification in TCGA databases, we found that the expression and methylation statuses of the hub genes changed significantly, and it was consistent with our results. Conclusion The novel abnormally MDEGs and pathways in HCC were identified. These results helped us further understand the molecular mechanisms underlying HCC invasion, metastasis, and development. Hub genes can serve as biomarkers for an accurate diagnosis and treatment of HCC, and PTK2, VWF, ITGA2, CFTR, ESR1, and CXCL12 are included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Lian Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Yan
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun-Liang Feng
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Feng Xie
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Chong-Kai Fang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Nan Wang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Lingnan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya Li
- Lingnan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
| | - Chong Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.,Lingnan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China
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Zhang D, Bin Y. DriverSubNet: A Novel Algorithm for Identifying Cancer Driver Genes by Subnetwork Enrichment Analysis. Front Genet 2021; 11:607798. [PMID: 33679866 PMCID: PMC7933651 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.607798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of driver genes from mass non-functional passenger genes in cancers is still a critical challenge. Here, an effective and no parameter algorithm, named DriverSubNet, is presented for detecting driver genes by effectively mining the mutation and gene expression information based on subnetwork enrichment analysis. Compared with the existing classic methods, DriverSubNet can rank driver genes and filter out passenger genes more efficiently in terms of precision, recall, and F1 score, as indicated by the analysis of four cancer datasets. The method recovered about 50% more known cancer driver genes in the top 100 detected genes than those found in other algorithms. Intriguingly, DriverSubNet was able to find these unknown cancer driver genes which could act as potential therapeutic targets and useful prognostic biomarkers for cancer patients. Therefore, DriverSubNet may act as a useful tool for the identification of driver genes by subnetwork enrichment analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- College of Information Engineering, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, China
| | - Yannan Bin
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, China
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46
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Zhou HM, Zhang JG, Zhang X, Li Q. Targeting cancer stem cells for reversing therapy resistance: mechanism, signaling, and prospective agents. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:62. [PMID: 33589595 PMCID: PMC7884707 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00430-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) show a self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential that contribute to tumor progression and therapy resistance. However, the underlying processes are still unclear. Elucidation of the key hallmarks and resistance mechanisms of CSCs may help improve patient outcomes and reduce relapse by altering therapeutic regimens. Here, we reviewed the identification of CSCs, the intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms of therapy resistance in CSCs, the signaling pathways of CSCs that mediate treatment failure, and potential CSC-targeting agents in various tumors from the clinical perspective. Targeting the mechanisms and pathways described here might contribute to further drug discovery and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- He-Ming Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of medicine, No.100 Haining Road, 200080, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Gang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of medicine, No.100 Haining Road, 200080, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of medicine, No.100 Haining Road, 200080, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of medicine, No.100 Haining Road, 200080, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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Rybakova Y, Gonzalez JT, Bogorad R, Chauhan VP, Dong YL, Whittaker CA, Zatsepin T, Koteliansky V, Anderson DG. Identification of a long non-coding RNA regulator of liver carcinoma cell survival. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:178. [PMID: 33589614 PMCID: PMC7884843 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03453-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genomic studies have significantly improved our understanding of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) biology and have led to the discovery of multiple protein-coding genes driving hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, these studies have identified thousands of new non-coding transcripts deregulated in HCC. We hypothesize that some of these transcripts may be involved in disease progression. Long non-coding RNAs are a large class of non-coding transcripts which participate in the regulation of virtually all cellular functions. However, a majority of lncRNAs remain dramatically understudied. Here, we applied a pooled shRNA-based screen to identify lncRNAs essential for HCC cell survival. We validated our screening results using RNAi, CRISPRi, and antisense oligonucleotides. We found a lncRNA, termed ASTILCS, that is critical for HCC cell growth and is overexpressed in tumors from HCC patients. We demonstrated that HCC cell death upon ASTILCS knockdown is associated with apoptosis induction and downregulation of a neighboring gene, protein tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2), a crucial protein for HCC cell survival. Taken together, our study describes a new, non-coding RNA regulator of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Rybakova
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia
| | - John T Gonzalez
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Roman Bogorad
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Vikash P Chauhan
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Yize L Dong
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Charles A Whittaker
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Timofei Zatsepin
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 121205, Russia
| | | | - Daniel G Anderson
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
- Harvard and MIT Division of Health Science and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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Deldar Abad Paskeh M, Mirzaei S, Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Sethi G. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression: An Emphasis on Molecular Pathways. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:1415-1444. [PMID: 34858888 PMCID: PMC8630469 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s336858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancers cause a high rate of death worldwide and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered as the most common primary liver cancer. HCC remains a challenging disease to treat. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is considered a tumor-promoting factor in various cancers; hence, the present review focused on the role of Wnt signaling in HCC, and its association with progression and therapy response based on pre-clinical and clinical evidence. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin enhances expression level of genes such as c-Myc and MMPs in increasing cancer progression. The mutation of CTNNB1 gene encoding β-catenin and its overexpression can lead to HCC progression. β-catenin signaling enhances cancer stem cell features of HCC and promotes their growth rate. Furthermore, β-catenin prevents apoptosis in HCC cells and increases their migration via triggering EMT and upregulating MMP levels. It is suggested that β-catenin signaling participates in mediating drug resistance and immuno-resistance in HCC. Upstream mediators including ncRNAs can regulate β-catenin signaling in HCC. Anti-cancer agents inhibit β-catenin signaling and mediate its proteasomal degradation in HCC therapy. Furthermore, clinical studies have revealed the role of β-catenin and its gene mutation (CTNBB1) in HCC progression. Based on these subjects, future experiments can focus on developing novel therapeutics targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
- Correspondence: Sepideh Mirzaei Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran Email
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Sariyer, Istanbul, 34396, Turkey
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Cancer Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Gautam Sethi Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore Email
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The Crosstalk between FAK and Wnt Signaling Pathways in Cancer and Its Therapeutic Implication. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239107. [PMID: 33266025 PMCID: PMC7730291 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Wnt signaling pathways are important contributors to tumorigenesis in several cancers. While most results come from studies investigating these pathways individually, there is increasing evidence of a functional crosstalk between both signaling pathways during development and tumor progression. A number of FAK-Wnt interactions are described, suggesting an intricate, context-specific, and cell type-dependent relationship. During development for instance, FAK acts mainly upstream of Wnt signaling; and although in intestinal homeostasis and mucosal regeneration Wnt seems to function upstream of FAK signaling, FAK activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during APC-driven intestinal tumorigenesis. In breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers, FAK is reported to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway, while in prostate cancer, FAK is downstream of Wnt. In malignant mesothelioma, FAK and Wnt show an antagonistic relationship: Inhibiting FAK signaling activates the Wnt pathway and vice versa. As the identification of effective Wnt inhibitors to translate in the clinical setting remains an outstanding challenge, further understanding of the functional interaction between Wnt and FAK could reveal new therapeutic opportunities and approaches greatly needed in clinical oncology. In this review, we summarize some of the most relevant interactions between FAK and Wnt in different cancers, address the current landscape of Wnt- and FAK-targeted therapies in different clinical trials, and discuss the rationale for targeting the FAK-Wnt crosstalk, along with the possible translational implications.
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50
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A Lipidomic Signature Complements Stemness Features Acquisition in Liver Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228452. [PMID: 33182805 PMCID: PMC7709039 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid catabolism and anabolism changes play a role in stemness acquisition by cancer cells, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are particularly dependent on the activity of the enzymes involved in these processes. Lipidomic changes could play a role in CSCs’ ability to cause disease relapse and chemoresistance. The exploration of lipid composition and metabolism changes in CSCs in the context of hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is still incomplete and their lipidomic scenario continues to be elusive. We aimed to evaluate through high-throughput mass spectrometry (MS)-based lipidomics the levels of the members of the six major classes of sphingolipids and phospholipids in two HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Huh-7) silenced for the expression of histone variant macroH2A1 (favoring stemness acquisition), or silenced for the expression of focal adhesion tyrosine kinase (FAK) (hindering aggressiveness and stemness). Transcriptomic changes were evaluated by RNA sequencing as well. We found definite lipidomic and transcriptomic changes in the HCC lines upon knockdown (KD) of macroH2A1 or FAK, in line with the acquisition or loss of stemness features. In particular, macroH2A1 KD increased total sphingomyelin (SM) levels and decreased total lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) levels, while FAK KD decreased total phosphatidylcholine (PC) levels. In conclusion, in HCC cell lines knocked down for specific signaling/epigenetic processes driving opposite stemness potential, we defined a lipidomic signature that hallmarks hepatic CSCs to be exploited for therapeutic strategies.
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