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Naughton KJ, Song X, Childress AR, Skaggs EM, Byrd AL, Gosser CM, Esoe DP, DuCote TJ, Plaugher DR, Lukyanchuk A, Goettl RA, Liu J, Brainson CF. Methionine Restriction Reduces Lung Cancer Progression and Increases Chemotherapy Response. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.25.599795. [PMID: 38979225 PMCID: PMC11230185 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.25.599795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Targeting tumor metabolism through dietary interventions is an area of growing interest, and may help to improve the significant mortality of aggressive cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here we show that the restriction of methionine in the aggressive KRAS/Lkb1-mutant NSCLC autochthonous mouse model drives decreased tumor progression and increased carboplatin treatment efficacy. Importantly, methionine restriction during early stages of tumorigenesis prevents the lineage switching known to occur in the model, and alters the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) to have fewer tumor-infiltrating neutrophils. Mechanistically, mutations in LKB1 are linked to anti-oxidant production through changes to cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) expression. Human cell lines with rescued LKB1 show increased CBS levels and resistance to carboplatin, which can be partially rescued by methionine restriction. Furthermore, LKB1 rescued cells, but not mutant cells, show less G2-M arrest and apoptosis in high methionine conditions. Knock-down of CBS sensitized both LKB1 mutant and non-mutated lines to carboplatin, again rescuing the carboplatin resistance of the LKB1 rescued lines. Given that immunotherapy is commonly combined with chemotherapy for NSCLC, we next wanted to understand if T cells are impaired by MR. Therefore, we examined the ability of T cells from MR and control tumor bearing mice to proliferate in culture and found that T cells from MR treated mice had no defects in proliferation, even though we continued the MR conditions ex vivo. We also identified that CBS is most highly correlated with smoking, adenocarcinomas with alveolar and bronchiolar features, and adenosquamous cell carcinomas, implicating its roles in oxidative stress response and lineage fate in human tumors. Taken together, we have shown the importance of MR as a dietary intervention to slow tumor growth and improve treatment outcomes for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra J Naughton
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Xiulong Song
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Avery R Childress
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Erika M Skaggs
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Aria L Byrd
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Christian M Gosser
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Dave-Preston Esoe
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Tanner J DuCote
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Daniel R Plaugher
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Alexsandr Lukyanchuk
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Ryan A Goettl
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
| | - Christine F Brainson
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY 40536
- Corresponding author
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2
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Chen Y, Zhu H, Luo Y, Tong S, Liu Y. EZH2: The roles in targeted therapy and mechanisms of resistance in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116624. [PMID: 38670045 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116624] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance presents a formidable challenge in the realm of breast cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), may serve as a key regulator in controlling drug resistance. EZH2 overexpression has been observed in breast cancer and many other malignancies, showing a strong correlation with poor outcomes. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms by which EZH2 regulates drug resistance, with a specific focus on breast cancer, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying molecular processes. Additionally, we will discuss the current strategies and outcomes of targeting EZH2 using both single agents and combination therapies, with the goal of offering improved guidance for the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients who have developed drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yi Luo
- Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Biotheus Inc., Guangdong Province, Zhuhai 519080, PR China.
| | - Shuangmei Tong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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3
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Xiang Y, Liu X, Wang Y, Zheng D, Meng Q, Jiang L, Yang S, Zhang S, Zhang X, Liu Y, Wang B. Mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapy and immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer: promising strategies to overcoming challenges. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1366260. [PMID: 38655260 PMCID: PMC11035781 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1366260] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Resistance to targeted therapy and immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a significant challenge in the treatment of this disease. The mechanisms of resistance are multifactorial and include molecular target alterations and activation of alternative pathways, tumor heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment change, immune evasion, and immunosuppression. Promising strategies for overcoming resistance include the development of combination therapies, understanding the resistance mechanisms to better use novel drug targets, the identification of biomarkers, the modulation of the tumor microenvironment and so on. Ongoing research into the mechanisms of resistance and the development of new therapeutic approaches hold great promise for improving outcomes for patients with NSCLC. Here, we summarize diverse mechanisms driving resistance to targeted therapy and immunotherapy in NSCLC and the latest potential and promising strategies to overcome the resistance to help patients who suffer from NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchu Xiang
- West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xudong Liu
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Division of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Dawei Zheng
- The College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuxing Meng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People’s Hospital, Liuzhou, China
- Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Clinical Biotechnology (Liuzhou People’s Hospital), Liuzhou, China
| | - Lingling Jiang
- Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Sha Yang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sijia Zhang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Urology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
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Wang Y, Zhou Q, Liu C, Zhang R, Xing B, Du J, Dong L, Zheng J, Chen Z, Sun M, Yao X, Ren Y, Zhou X. Targeting IL-6/STAT3 signaling abrogates EGFR-TKI resistance through inhibiting Beclin-1 dependent autophagy in HNSCC. Cancer Lett 2024; 586:216612. [PMID: 38211653 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is featured by notorious EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) resistance attributable to activation of parallel pathways. The numerous phase I/II trials have rarely shown encouraging clinical outcomes of EGFR-TKIs during treatment in HNSCC patients with advanced tumors. A unique IL-6/STAT3 signaling axis is reported to regulate multiple cancer-related pathways, but whether this signaling is correlated with reduced EGFR-TKI responsiveness is unclear. Here, we found that STAT3 signaling is compensatorily upregulated after EGFR-TKI exposure and confers anti-EGFR therapy resistance during HNSCC therapy. Targeting STAT3 using small molecule inhibitors promotes complete recovery or sustained elimination of HNSCC tumors through combination with EGFR-TKIs both in vitro and in diverse animal models. Mechanistically, phosphorylated STAT3 was proven to enhance oncogenic autophagic flux, protecting cancer cells and preventing EGFR-TKI-induced tumor apoptosis. Thus, blockade of STAT3 signaling simultaneously disrupts several key interactions during tumor progression and remodels the autophagic degradation system, thereby rendering advanced HNSCC eradicable through combination with EGFR-TKI therapy. These findings provide a clinically actionable strategy and suggest STAT3 as a predictive biomarker with therapeutic potential for EGFR-TKI resistant HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Qianqian Zhou
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Bofan Xing
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Lin Dong
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jianwei Zheng
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Mengyu Sun
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yao
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Yu Ren
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China; Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngological Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Tianjin' s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Medicine on Head & Neck Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China; National Key Laboratory of Druggability Evaluation and Systematic Translational Medicine, Tianjin, 300060, China.
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5
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Liu X, Mei W, Zhang P, Zeng C. PIK3CA mutation as an acquired resistance driver to EGFR-TKIs in non-small cell lung cancer: Clinical challenges and opportunities. Pharmacol Res 2024; 202:107123. [PMID: 38432445 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have significantly enhanced the treatment outcomes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients harboring EGFR mutations. However, the occurrence of acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs is an unavoidable outcome observed in these patients. Disruption of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway can contribute to the emergence of resistance to EGFR TKIs in lung cancer. The emergence of PIK3CA mutations following treatment with EGFR-TKIs can lead to resistance against EGFR-TKIs. This review provides an overview of the current perspectives regarding the involvement of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in the development of lung cancer. Furthermore, we outline the state-of-the-art therapeutic strategies targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in lung cancer. We highlight the role of PIK3CA mutation as an acquired resistance mechanism against EGFR-TKIs in EGFR-mutant NSCLC. Crucially, we explore therapeutic strategies targeting PIK3CA-mediated resistance to EGFR TKIs in lung cancer, aiming to optimize the effectiveness of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen 518110, China
| | - Wuxuan Mei
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen 518110, China
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen 518110, China.
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Zhang L, Zhang X, Shi Y, Ni Y, Fei J, Jin Z, Li W, Wang X, Wu N. Role and potential therapeutic value of histone methyltransferases in drug resistance mechanisms in lung cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1376916. [PMID: 38525426 PMCID: PMC10957659 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1376916] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, ranking second globally in both incidence and high mortality among common malignant tumors, presents a significant challenge with frequent occurrences of drug resistance despite the continuous emergence of novel therapeutic agents. This exacerbates disease progression, tumor recurrence, and ultimately leads to poor prognosis. Beyond acquired resistance due to genetic mutations, mounting evidence suggests a critical role of epigenetic mechanisms in this process. Numerous studies have indicated abnormal expression of Histone Methyltransferases (HMTs) in lung cancer, with the abnormal activation of certain HMTs closely linked to drug resistance. HMTs mediate drug tolerance in lung cancer through pathways involving alterations in cellular metabolism, upregulation of cancer stem cell-related genes, promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and enhanced migratory capabilities. The use of HMT inhibitors also opens new avenues for lung cancer treatment, and targeting HMTs may contribute to reversing drug resistance. This comprehensive review delves into the pivotal roles and molecular mechanisms of HMTs in drug resistance in lung cancer, offering a fresh perspective on therapeutic strategies. By thoroughly examining treatment approaches, it provides new insights into understanding drug resistance in lung cancer, supporting personalized treatment, fostering drug development, and propelling lung cancer therapy into novel territories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Xueying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Yuhan Ni
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Jiaojiao Fei
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Zhixin Jin
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Wenjuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Clinical and Preclinical Research in Respiratory Disease, Molecular Diagnosis Center, The Department of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Joint Research Center for Regional Diseases of Institute of Health and Medicine (IHM), The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
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Chen L, Zheng X, Liu W, Sun Y, Zhao S, Tian L, Tian W, Xue F, Kang C, Wang Y. Compound AC1Q3QWB upregulates CDKN1A and SOX17 by interrupting the HOTAIR-EZH2 interaction and enhances the efficacy of tazemetostat in endometrial cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 578:216445. [PMID: 37866545 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216445] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common malignancy of the female reproductive system, with an escalating incidence. Recurrent/metastatic EC presents a poor prognosis. The interaction between the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR and the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) induces abnormal silencing of tumor suppressor genes, exerting a pivotal role in tumorigenesis. We have previously discovered AC1Q3QWB (AQB), a small-molecule compound targeting HOTAIR-EZH2 interaction. In the present study, we unveil that AQB selectively hampers the interaction between HOTAIR and EZH2 within EC cells, thus reversing the epigenetic suppression of tumor suppressor genes. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate AQB's synergistic effect with tazemetostat (TAZ), an EZH2 inhibitor, significantly boosting the expression of CDKN1A and SOX17. This, in turn, induces cell cycle arrest and impedes EC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In vivo experiments further validate AQB's potential by enhancing TAZ's anti-tumor efficacy at lower doses. Our results advocate AQB, a recently discovered small-molecule inhibitor, as a promising agent against EC cells. When combined with TAZ, it offers a novel therapeutic strategy for EC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xingyu Zheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Wenlu Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yiqing Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Lina Tian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Wenyan Tian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Lab of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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8
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Stanland LJ, Ang HX, Hoj JP, Chu Y, Tan P, Wood KC, Luftig MA. CBF-Beta Mitigates PI3K-Alpha-Specific Inhibitor Killing through PIM1 in PIK3CA-Mutant Gastric Cancer. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:1148-1162. [PMID: 37493631 PMCID: PMC10811747 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-23-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
PIK3CA is the second most mutated gene in cancer leading to aberrant PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling and increased translation, proliferation, and survival. Some 4%-25% of gastric cancers display activating PIK3CA mutations, including 80% of Epstein-Barr virus-associated GCs. Small molecules, including pan-PI3K and dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors, have shown moderate success clinically, due to broad on-target/off-tissue effects. Thus, isoform-specific and mutant selective inhibitors have been of significant interest. However, drug resistance is a problem and has affected success of new drugs. There has been a concerted effort to define mechanisms of resistance and identify potent combinations in many tumor types, though gastric cancer is comparatively understudied. In this study, we identified modulators of the response to the PI3Kα-specific inhibitor, BYL719, in PIK3CA-mutant GCs. We found that loss of NEDD9 or inhibition of BCL-XL conferred hypersensitivity to BYL719, through increased cell-cycle arrest and cell death, respectively. In addition, we discovered that loss of CBFB conferred resistance to BYL719. CBFB loss led to upregulation of the protein kinase PIM1, which can phosphorylate and activate several overlapping downstream substrates as AKT thereby maintaining pathway activity in the presence of PI3Kα inhibition. The addition of a pan-PIM inhibitor re-sensitized resistant cells to BYL719. Our data provide clear mechanistic insights into PI3Kα inhibitor response in PIK3CA-mutant gastric tumors and can inform future work as mutant-selective inhibitors are in development for diverse tumor types. IMPLICATIONS Loss of either NEDD9 or BCL-XL confers hypersensitivity to PI3K-alpha inhibition whereas loss of CBFB confers resistance through a CBFB/PIM1 signaling axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyla J. Stanland
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hazel X. Ang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jacob P. Hoj
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Patrick Tan
- Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore; Singapore
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore
| | - Kris C. Wood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Micah A. Luftig
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine; Durham, NC, USA
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9
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Yu F, Li L, Zhang M, Sun S. Phosphorylation of EZH2 differs HER2-positive breast cancer invasiveness in a site-specific manner. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:948. [PMID: 37803297 PMCID: PMC10557267 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11450-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) invasiveness and drug-resistance issue is the critical treatment obstacle recently. We investigated the total and phosphorylated status EZH2 expression in database and BC tissue microarray. We demonstrated for the first time that EZH2 is distributed both in cytoplasm and nucleus of breast cancer cells in a phosphorylation site-specific manner. High expressed-EZH2 cases more frequently had an advanced clinical stage (lymph node metastasis) and aggressive features than EZH2-low cases, potentially indicating the high risk of HER2-positive BC (p < 0.05). Notably, highly expressed phosphorylated EZH2 is differently located in cytoplasm or nucleus in a site-specific manner in breast cancer cells. Nucleus-located pEZH2-S21 is expressed in invasive and lymph node metastatic HER2-positive BC cases (p = 0.144, p = 0.001). Cytoplasmic pEZH2-T487 is correlated with HER2 positive status (p = 0.014).In conclusion, high expression of nucleus-located EZH2 might be a predictor of invasive BC. Activation of phosphorylated EZH2-S21 site in nucleus would be a potential predictor of HER2-positve BC and poor efficacy of HER2-target therapy. These results point to a PRC2-independent non-epigenetic mechanism and therapeutic strategy of EZH2 in HER2-positive BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lili Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Mengwen Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shanshan Sun
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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10
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DuCote TJ, Naughton KJ, Skaggs EM, Bocklage TJ, Allison DB, Brainson CF. Using Artificial Intelligence to Identify Tumor Microenvironment Heterogeneity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancers. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100176. [PMID: 37182840 PMCID: PMC10527157 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer heterogeneity is a major barrier to effective treatments and encompasses not only the malignant epithelial cell phenotypes and genetics but also the diverse tumor-associated cell types. Current techniques used to investigate the tumor microenvironment can be time-consuming, expensive, complicated to interpret, and often involves destruction of the sample. Here we use standard hematoxylin and eosin-stained tumor sections and the HALO AI nuclear phenotyping software to characterize 6 distinct cell types (epithelial, mesenchymal, macrophage, neutrophil, lymphocyte, and plasma cells) in both murine lung cancer models and human lung cancer samples. CD3 immunohistochemistry and lymph node sections were used to validate lymphocyte calls, while F4/80 immunohistochemistry was used for macrophage validation. Consistent with numerous prior studies, we demonstrated that macrophages predominate the adenocarcinomas, whereas neutrophils predominate the squamous cell carcinomas in murine samples. In human samples, we showed a strong negative correlation between neutrophils and lymphocytes as well as between mesenchymal cells and lymphocytes and that higher percentages of mesenchymal cells correlate with poor prognosis. Taken together, we demonstrate the utility of this AI software to identify, quantify, and compare distributions of cell types on standard hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides. Given the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of this technique, it may be widely beneficial for researchers designing new therapies and clinicians working to select favorable treatments for their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner J DuCote
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Kassandra J Naughton
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Erika M Skaggs
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Therese J Bocklage
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Derek B Allison
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Christine F Brainson
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky.
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11
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Li Y, Gao Z, Wang Y, Pang B, Zhang B, Hu R, Wang Y, Liu C, Zhang X, Yang J, Mei M, Wang Y, Zhou X, Li M, Ren Y. Lysine methylation promotes NFAT5 activation and determines temozolomide efficacy in glioblastoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4062. [PMID: 37429858 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39845-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) therapy offers minimal clinical benefits in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) with high EGFR activity, underscoring the need for effective combination therapy. Here, we show that tonicity-responsive enhancer binding protein (NFAT5) lysine methylation, is a determinant of TMZ response. Mechanistically, EGFR activation induces phosphorylated EZH2 (Ser21) binding and triggers NFAT5 methylation at K668. Methylation prevents NFAT5 cytoplasm interaction with E3 ligase TRAF6, thus blocks NFAT5 lysosomal degradation and cytosol localization restriction, which was mediated by TRAF6 induced K63-linked ubiquitination, resulting in NFAT5 protein stabilization, nuclear accumulation and activation. Methylated NFAT5 leads to the upregulation of MGMT, a transcriptional target of NFAT5, which is responsible for unfavorable TMZ response. Inhibition of NFAT5 K668 methylation improved TMZ efficacy in orthotopic xenografts and patient-derived xenografts (PDX) models. Notably, NFAT5 K668 methylation levels are elevated in TMZ-refractory specimens and confer poor prognosis. Our findings suggest targeting NFAT5 methylation is a promising therapeutic strategy to improve TMZ response in tumors with EGFR activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yatian Li
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenyue Gao
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Binbin Zhang
- Department of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruxin Hu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngology Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Cancer Institute, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuebin Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingxuan Yang
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Mei Mei
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Yongzhi Wang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Maxillofacial and Otorhinolaryngology Oncology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Cancer Institute, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Tianjin, China.
| | - Min Li
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Department of Surgery, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Yu Ren
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Department of Surgery, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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12
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Liu Z, Yan W, Liu S, Liu Z, Xu P, Fang W. Regulatory network and targeted interventions for CCDC family in tumor pathogenesis. Cancer Lett 2023; 565:216225. [PMID: 37182638 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
CCDC (coiled-coil domain-containing) is a coiled helix domain that exists in natural proteins. There are about 180 CCDC family genes, encoding proteins that are involved in intercellular transmembrane signal transduction and genetic signal transcription, among other functions. Alterations in expression, mutation, and DNA promoter methylation of CCDC family genes have been shown to be associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases, including primary ciliary dyskinesia, infertility, and tumors. In recent studies, CCDC family genes have been found to be involved in regulation of growth, invasion, metastasis, chemosensitivity, and other biological behaviors of malignant tumor cells in various cancer types, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and thyroid cancer. In this review, we summarize the involvement of CCDC family genes in tumor pathogenesis and the relevant upstream and downstream molecular mechanisms. In addition, we summarize the potential of CCDC family genes as tumor therapy targets. The findings discussed here help us to further understand the role and the therapeutic applications of CCDC family genes in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Liu
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, 510315, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Weiwei Yan
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, 510315, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaohua Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Pingxiang People's Hospital, Pingxiang, Jiangxi, 337000, China
| | - Zhan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition, The First Affiliated Hospital (People's Hospital of Hunan Province), Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410002, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, 510315, Guangzhou, China; Respiratory Department, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518034, China.
| | - Weiyi Fang
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, 510315, Guangzhou, China.
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13
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Entezari M, Taheriazam A, Paskeh MDA, Sabouni E, Zandieh MA, Aboutalebi M, Kakavand A, Rezaei S, Hejazi ES, Saebfar H, Salimimoghadam S, Mirzaei S, Hashemi M, Samarghandian S. The pharmacological and biological importance of EZH2 signaling in lung cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114313. [PMID: 36738498 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 18% of cancer-related deaths worldwide are attributed to lung tumor and global burden of this type of cancer is ascending. Different factors are responsible for development of lung cancer such as smoking, environmental factors and genetic mutations. EZH2 is a vital protein with catalytic activity and belongs to PCR2 family. EZH2 has been implicated in regulating gene expression by binding to promoter of targets. The importance of EZH2 in lung cancer is discussed in current manuscript. Activation of EZH2 significantly elevates the proliferation rate of lung cancer. Furthermore, metastasis and associated molecular mechanisms including EMT undergo activation by EZH2 in enhancing the lung cancer progression. The response of lung cancer to therapy can be significantly diminished due to EZH2 upregulation. Since EZH2 increases tumor progression, anti-cancer agents suppressing its expression reduce malignancy. In spite of significant effort in understanding modulatory function of EZH2 on other pathways, it appears that EZH2 can be also regulated and controlled by other factors that are described in current review. Therefore, translating current findings to clinic can improve treatment and management of lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Entezari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eisa Sabouni
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Arad Zandieh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Aboutalebi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Kakavand
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shamin Rezaei
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Sadat Hejazi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Saebfar
- European University Association, League of European Research Universities, university of milan, Italy
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
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14
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Chen F, Byrd AL, Liu J, Flight RM, DuCote TJ, Naughton KJ, Song X, Edgin AR, Lukyanchuk A, Dixon DT, Gosser CM, Esoe DP, Jayswal RD, Orkin SH, Moseley HNB, Wang C, Brainson CF. Polycomb deficiency drives a FOXP2-high aggressive state targetable by epigenetic inhibitors. Nat Commun 2023; 14:336. [PMID: 36670102 PMCID: PMC9859827 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35784-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) histone methyltransferase EZH2 are approved for certain cancers, but realizing their wider utility relies upon understanding PRC2 biology in each cancer system. Using a genetic model to delete Ezh2 in KRAS-driven lung adenocarcinomas, we observed that Ezh2 haplo-insufficient tumors were less lethal and lower grade than Ezh2 fully-insufficient tumors, which were poorly differentiated and metastatic. Using three-dimensional cultures and in vivo experiments, we determined that EZH2-deficient tumors were vulnerable to H3K27 demethylase or BET inhibitors. PRC2 loss/inhibition led to de-repression of FOXP2, a transcription factor that promotes migration and stemness, and FOXP2 could be suppressed by BET inhibition. Poorly differentiated human lung cancers were enriched for an H3K27me3-low state, representing a subtype that may benefit from BET inhibition as a single therapy or combined with additional EZH2 inhibition. These data highlight diverse roles of PRC2 in KRAS-driven lung adenocarcinomas, and demonstrate the utility of three-dimensional cultures for exploring epigenetic drug sensitivities for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Chen
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 510060, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Aria L Byrd
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Robert M Flight
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Tanner J DuCote
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Kassandra J Naughton
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Xiulong Song
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Abigail R Edgin
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Alexsandr Lukyanchuk
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Danielle T Dixon
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Christian M Gosser
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Dave-Preston Esoe
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Rani D Jayswal
- Markey Cancer Center Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource Facility, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Stuart H Orkin
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Hunter N B Moseley
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Chi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Christine Fillmore Brainson
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
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15
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Huang R, Wu Y, Zou Z. Combining EZH2 inhibitors with other therapies for solid tumors: more choices for better effects. Epigenomics 2022; 14:1449-1464. [PMID: 36601794 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2 is an epigenetic regulator that methylates lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) and is closely related to the development and metastasis of tumors. It often shows gain-of-function mutations in hematological tumors, while it is often overexpressed in solid tumors. EZH2 inhibitors have shown good efficacy in hematological tumors in clinical trials but poor efficacy in solid tumors. Therefore, current research on EZH2 inhibitors has focused on exploring additional combination strategies in solid tumors. Herein we summarize the combinations and mechanisms of EZH2 inhibitors and other therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and epigenetic therapy, both in clinical trials and preclinical studies, aiming to provide a reference for better antitumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Huang
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yirong Wu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Zhengyun Zou
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
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16
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Xing H, Gao M, Wang Y, Zhang X, Shi J, Wang X, Liu X, Ma Q, Kong X, Yang C, Ding J, Meng L. Genome-wide gain-of-function screening identifies EZH2 mediating resistance to PI3Kα inhibitors in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e835. [PMID: 35604910 PMCID: PMC9126361 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositide-3 kinase alpha (PI3Kα) has been confirmed to be a potential therapeutic target for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), while the potency of PI3Kα inhibitors is often attenuated by concurrent oncogenic signalling pathways. We performed genome-wide gain-of-function screening with a CRISPR-SAM library and identified enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) rendering ESCC cells resistant to the PI3Kα inhibitor CYH33. Enhanced expression of EZH2 frequently occurs in ESCC and is related to poor prognosis. Overexpression of full-length EZH2 but not methyltransferase-deficient EZH2 conferred resistance to CYH33, while downregulating EZH2 expression restored sensitivity. EZH2 expression was negatively related to the activity of CYH33 against the proliferation of ESCC cell lines and patient-derived cells. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that EZH2 abrogated CYH33-mediated cell cycle regulation. EZH2 epigenetically suppressed the transcription of CDKN1A, promoting RB phosphorylation and cell cycle progression. Concurrently targeting EZH2 significantly potentiated CYH33 to inhibit the growth of ESCC cells and patient-derived xenografts accompanied by enhanced cell cycle arrest. Taken together, our study demonstrated that an EZH2-p21-RB axis remodeled cell cycle regulation and rendered resistance to PI3Kα inhibitors in ESCC. Simultaneously targeting PI3Kα and EZH2 may provide an effective strategy for ESCC therapy with high expression of EZH2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xing
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mengshi Gao
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yuxiang Wang
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Xu Zhang
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jiajie Shi
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Xiang Wang
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Xueling Liu
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Qingyang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and HealthChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Xiangyin Kong
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and HealthChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Chunhao Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Jian Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Linghua Meng
- Division of Anti‐tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- School of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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Zeng J, Zhang J, Sun Y, Wang J, Ren C, Banerjee S, Ouyang L, Wang Y. Targeting EZH2 for cancer therapy: From current progress to novel strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 238:114419. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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