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Niharika, Ureka L, Roy A, Patra SK. Dissecting SOX2 expression and function reveals an association with multiple signaling pathways during embryonic development and in cancer progression. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189136. [PMID: 38880162 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189136] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
SRY (Sex Determining Region) box 2 (SOX2) is an essential transcription factor that plays crucial roles in activating genes involved in pre- and post-embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis, and lineage specifications. SOX2 maintains the self-renewal property of stem cells and is involved in the generation of induced pluripotency stem cells. SOX2 protein contains a particular high-mobility group domain that enables SOX2 to achieve the capacity to participate in a broad variety of functions. The information about the involvement of SOX2 with gene regulatory elements, signaling networks, and microRNA is gradually emerging, and the higher expression of SOX2 is functionally relevant to various cancer types. SOX2 facilitates the oncogenic phenotype via cellular proliferation and enhancement of invasive tumor properties. Evidence are accumulating in favor of three dimensional (higher order) folding of chromatin and epigenetic control of the SOX2 gene by chromatin modifications, which implies that the expression level of SOX2 can be modulated by epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, specifically, via DNA methylation and histone H3 modification. In view of this, and to focus further insights into the roles SOX2 plays in physiological functions, involvement of SOX2 during development, precisely, the advances of our knowledge in pre- and post-embryonic development, and interactions of SOX2 in this scenario with various signaling pathways in tumor development and cancer progression, its potential as a therapeutic target against many cancers are summarized and discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niharika
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Lina Ureka
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Ankan Roy
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India.
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2
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Zhang Y, Li Y. β-hydroxybutyrate inhibits malignant phenotypes of prostate cancer cells through β-hydroxybutyrylation of indoleacetamide-N-methyltransferase. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:121. [PMID: 38555451 PMCID: PMC10981303 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03277-6] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent cancers in men and is associated with high mortality and disability rates. β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), a ketone body, has received increasing attention for its role in cancer. However, its role in PCa remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism and feasibility of BHB as a treatment alternative for PCa. METHODS Colony formation assay, flow cytometry, western blot assay, and transwell assays were performed to determine the effect of BHB on the proliferation and metastasis of PCa cells. Tumor sphere formation and aldehyde dehydrogenase assays were used to identify the impact of BHB or indoleacetamide-N-methyltransferase (INMT) on the stemness of PCa cells. N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-meRIP real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and dual luciferase assays were conducted to confirm INMT upregulation via the METTL3-m6A pathway. Co-IP assay was used to detect the epigenetic modification of INMT by BHB-mediated β-hydroxybutyrylation (kbhb) and screen enzymes that regulate INMT kbhb. Mouse xenograft experiments demonstrated the antitumor effects of BHB in vivo. RESULTS BHB can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCa cells by suppressing their stemness. Mechanistically, INMT, whose expression is upregulated by the METTL3-m6A pathway, was demonstrated to be an oncogenic gene that promotes the stem-like characteristics of PCa cells. BHB can suppress the malignant phenotypes of PCa by kbhb of INMT, which in turn inhibits INMT expression. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate a role of BHB in PCa metabolic therapy, thereby suggesting an epigenetic therapeutic strategy to target INMT in aggressive PCa. TRIAL REGISTRATION Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, Henan, Henan, 450000, China.
| | - Yunlong Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, Henan, Henan, 450000, China
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Signaling pathways and targeted therapies in lung squamous cell carcinoma: mechanisms and clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:353. [PMID: 36198685 PMCID: PMC9535022 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01200-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death across the world. Unlike lung adenocarcinoma, patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) have not benefitted from targeted therapies. Although immunotherapy has significantly improved cancer patients' outcomes, the relatively low response rate and severe adverse events hinder the clinical application of this promising treatment in LSCC. Therefore, it is of vital importance to have a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of LSCC as well as the inner connection among different signaling pathways, which will surely provide opportunities for more effective therapeutic interventions for LSCC. In this review, new insights were given about classical signaling pathways which have been proved in other cancer types but not in LSCC, including PI3K signaling pathway, VEGF/VEGFR signaling, and CDK4/6 pathway. Other signaling pathways which may have therapeutic potentials in LSCC were also discussed, including the FGFR1 pathway, EGFR pathway, and KEAP1/NRF2 pathway. Next, chromosome 3q, which harbors two key squamous differentiation markers SOX2 and TP63 is discussed as well as its related potential therapeutic targets. We also provided some progress of LSCC in epigenetic therapies and immune checkpoints blockade (ICB) therapies. Subsequently, we outlined some combination strategies of ICB therapies and other targeted therapies. Finally, prospects and challenges were given related to the exploration and application of novel therapeutic strategies for LSCC.
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Transcriptomic Signature and Growth Factor Regulation of Castration-Tolerant Prostate Luminal Progenitor Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153775. [PMID: 35954439 PMCID: PMC9367377 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153775] [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: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remain poorly understood. LSCmed cells defines an FACS-enriched population of castration-tolerant luminal progenitor cells that has been proposed to promote tumorigenesis and CRPC in Pten-deficient mice. The goals of this study were to assess the relevance of LSCmed cells through the analysis of their molecular proximity with luminal progenitor-like cell clusters identified by single-cell (sc)RNA-seq analyses of mouse and human prostates, and to investigate their regulation by in silico-predicted growth factors present in the prostatic microenvironment. Methods: Several bioinformatic pipelines were used for pan-transcriptomic analyses. LSCmed cells isolated by cell sorting from healthy and malignant mouse prostates were characterized using RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence and organoid assays. Results: LSCmed cells match (i) mouse luminal progenitor cell clusters identified in scRNA-seq analyses for which we provide a common 15-gene signature including the previously identified LSCmed marker Krt4, and (ii) Club/Hillock cells of the human prostate. This transcriptional overlap was maintained in cancer contexts. EGFR/ERBB4, IGF-1R and MET pathways were identified as autocrine/paracrine regulators of progenitor, proliferation and differentiation properties of LSCmed cells. The functional redundancy of these signaling pathways allows them to bypass the effect of receptor-targeted pharmacological inhibitors. Conclusions: Based on transcriptomic profile and pharmacological resistance to monotherapies that failed in CRPC patients, this study supports LSCmed cells as a relevant model to investigate the role of castration-tolerant progenitor cells in human prostate cancer progression.
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Cancer Stem Cell Markers for Urinary Carcinoma. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:3611677. [PMID: 35342431 PMCID: PMC8941535 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3611677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cell (CSC) refers to cancer cells with stem cell properties, that is, they have the ability of “self-renewal” and “differentiation.” Cancer stem cells exist in cancer cells and are the “culprit” of cancer recurrence and metastasis. It is difficult to be found because of its small amount, and it is difficult for anticancer drugs to produce effects on it. At present, the isolation and identification of cancer stem cells from many solid tumors are still quite difficult, mainly due to the lack of specific molecular markers of cancer stem cells. In this review, cancer stem cell surface markers and functional markers in urinary system were summarized. These markers can provide molecular targets for cancer therapy.
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Lee Y, Yoon J, Ko D, Yu M, Lee S, Kim S. TMPRSS4 promotes cancer stem-like properties in prostate cancer cells through upregulation of SOX2 by SLUG and TWIST1. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:372. [PMID: 34809669 PMCID: PMC8607621 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02147-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transmembrane serine protease 4 (TMPRSS4) is a cell surface–anchored serine protease. Elevated expression of TMPRSS4 correlates with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, prostate cancer, non–small cell lung cancer, and other cancers. Previously, we demonstrated that TMPRSS4 promotes invasion and proliferation of prostate cancer cells. Here, we investigated whether TMPRSS4 confers cancer stem–like properties to prostate cancer cells and characterized the underlying mechanisms. Methods Acquisition of cancer stem–like properties by TMPRSS4 was examined by monitoring anchorage-independent growth, tumorsphere formation, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activation, and resistance to anoikis and drugs in vitro and in an early metastasis model in vivo. The underlying molecular mechanisms were evaluated, focusing on stemness-related factors regulated by epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-inducing transcription factors. Clinical expression and significance of TMPRSS4 and stemness-associated factors were explored by analyzing datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Results TMPRSS4 promoted anchorage-independent growth, ALDH activation, tumorsphere formation, and therapeutic resistance of prostate cancer cells. In addition, TMPRSS4 promoted resistance to anoikis, thereby increasing survival of circulating tumor cells and promoting early metastasis. These features were accompanied by upregulation of stemness-related factors such as SOX2, BMI1, and CD133. SLUG and TWIST1, master EMT-inducing transcription factors, made essential contributions to TMPRSS4-mediated cancer stem cell (CSC) features through upregulation of SOX2. SLUG stabilized SOX2 via preventing proteasomal degradation through its interaction with SOX2, while TWIST1 upregulated transcription of SOX2 by interacting with the proximal E-box element in the SOX2 promoter. Clinical data showed that TMPRSS4 expression correlated with the levels of SOX2, PROM1, SNAI2, and TWIST1. Expression of SOX2 was positively correlated with that of TWIST1, but not with other EMT-inducing transcription factors, in various cancer cell lines. Conclusions Together, these findings suggest that TMPRSS4 promotes CSC features in prostate cancer through upregulation of the SLUG- and TWIST1-induced stem cell factor SOX2 beyond EMT. Thus, TMPRSS4/SLUG–TWIST1/SOX2 axis may represent a novel mechanism involved in the control of tumor progression. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02147-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhee Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Junghwa Yoon
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 34141, South Korea.,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chungnam National University, Daejon, 34134, South Korea
| | - Dongjoon Ko
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Minyeong Yu
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Soojin Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chungnam National University, Daejon, 34134, South Korea
| | - Semi Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejon, 34141, South Korea. .,Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejon, 34113, South Korea.
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Choi JY, Lee YS, Shim DM, Seo SW. PTCH1 regulates anchorage-independent growth and bone invasion of non-small cell lung cancer cells. Bone 2021; 144:115829. [PMID: 33359005 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Acquisition of metastatic potential by cancer cells is related to cancer stemness and anchorage-independent growth. The onset and progression of cancer are known to involve Hedgehog (HH) signaling that is activated by the binding of HH to the Patched 1 (PTCH1) receptor. However, the functions and mechanisms of action of PTCH1 in the context of bone metastasis remain to be elucidated. In this study, lentivirally-delivered shRNA was used to deplete PTCH1 levels, which resulted in the inhibition of spherical colony formation by the human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line; this suggested that PTCH1 promotes anchorage-independent growth. Concordantly, knockdown of PTCH1 resulted in significantly reduced migration and invasion of NSCLC cells; this was accompanied by the downregulation of MMP7 and SOX2. PTCH1 knockdown resulted in decreased bone destruction and osteoclastogenesis in a mouse bone metastasis model. These results indicate that PTCH1 may be an important regulator of bone invasion, and strongly suggest that knockdown of PTCH1 may decrease the anchorage-independent growth and metastatic potential of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yoon Choi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 5 #50, Ilwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-710, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Sun Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 5 #50, Ilwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-710, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Mi Shim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 5 #50, Ilwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-710, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Wook Seo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 5 #50, Ilwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 135-710, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Devlies W, Handle F, Devos G, Joniau S, Claessens F. Preclinical Models in Prostate Cancer: Resistance to AR Targeting Therapies in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:915. [PMID: 33671614 PMCID: PMC7926818 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is an androgen-driven tumor. Different prostate cancer therapies consequently focus on blocking the androgen receptor pathway. Clinical studies reported tumor resistance mechanisms by reactivating and bypassing the androgen pathway. Preclinical models allowed the identification, confirmation, and thorough study of these pathways. This review looks into the current and future role of preclinical models to understand resistance to androgen receptor-targeted therapies. Increasing knowledge on this resistance will greatly improve insights into tumor pathophysiology and future treatment strategies in prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wout Devlies
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (G.D.); (S.J.)
| | - Florian Handle
- Division of Experimental Urology, Department of Urology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Gaëtan Devos
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (G.D.); (S.J.)
| | - Steven Joniau
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (G.D.); (S.J.)
| | - Frank Claessens
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
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Zhu Z, Lin S, Wu X, Xu J, Li L, Ye W, Li J, Huang Z. Decitabine and Cisplatin are Synergistic to Exert Anti-Tumor Effect on Gastric Cancer via Inducing Sox2 DNA Demethylation. Onco Targets Ther 2021; 14:623-636. [PMID: 33519210 PMCID: PMC7837578 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s276168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cisplatin is a vital chemotherapy regimen for gastric cancer (GC), while partial response is observed (approximately 40%) because of drug resistance. Thus, it is urgent to improve drug sensitivity to improve the therapeutic effect of cisplatin on GC. Purpose The study was performed to explore the synergistic effect of decitabine and cisplatin in GC. Materials and Methods Cancer and matched adjacent tissues from patients with GC were obtained and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate Sox2 expression level. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) was performed to assess the effect of 5-aza-2ʹ-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR) on Sox2 promoter. Cell proliferation assay, scratch-wound migration assay and Transwell invasion ability were performed to assess the effect of 5-Aza-CdR on proliferation, migration and invasion ability. Meantime, the effect of 5-Aza-CdR was also investigated in gastric cell lines BGC-823 and nude mouse xenograft tumor model. Finally, the anti-cancer effect of decitabine, cisplatin and their combination treatment were investigated in a BGC-823 and nude mouse xenograft tumor model, Sox2 methylation level, Sox2 expression of BGC-823 and xenograft tumors were analyzed by MSP, qRT-PCR and Western blot. Results Sox2 expression was significantly associated with different differentiated degrees, depth of invasion (0.0011), lymph node metastasis (0.0013), and TNM stage (0.0002). Next, methylation inhibitor 5-Aza-CdR restored Sox2 expression to promote proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Finally, cisplatin and decitabine was found to be synergistic to inhibit proliferation of xenograft tumors. Likewise, cisplatin and decitabine were also synergistic to induce Sox2 DNA demethylation to promote Sox2 mRNA and protein expression in BGC-823 and xenograft tumors. Conclusion Cisplatin and decitabine could be synergistic to induce Sox2 DNA demethylation to promote expression of the Sox2 gene, which exerted an anti-tumor effect on GC. It may suggest an insight for innovative therapeutics of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihao Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofang Wu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiuhua Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Lulu Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Weipeng Ye
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Cancer center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengjie Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, People's Republic of China.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, People's Republic of China
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Kim JY, Kim HJ, Jung CW, Choi BI, Lee DH, Park MJ. PARK7 maintains the stemness of glioblastoma stem cells by stabilizing epidermal growth factor receptor variant III. Oncogene 2020; 40:508-521. [PMID: 33188296 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01543-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PARK7 is involved in many key cellular processes, including cell proliferation, transcriptional regulation, cellular differentiation, oxidative stress protection, and mitochondrial function maintenance. Deregulation of PARK7 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, including cancer. Here, we aimed to clarify the effect of PARK7 on stemness and radioresistance of glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). Serum differentiation and magnetic cell sorting of GSCs revealed that PARK7 was preferentially expressed in GSCs rather than differentiated GSCs. Immunohistochemical staining showed enhanced expression of PARK7 in glioma tissues compared to that in normal brain tissues. shRNA-mediated knockdown of PARK7 inhibited the self-renewal activity of GSCs in vitro, as evidenced by the results of neurosphere formation, limiting dilution, and soft-agar clonogenic assays. In addition, PARK7 knockdown suppressed GSC invasion and enhanced GSC sensitivity to ionizing radiation (IR). PARK7 knockdown suppressed expression of GSC signatures including nestin, epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII), SOX2, NOTCH1, and OCT4. Contrarily, overexpression of PARK7 in CD133- non-GSCs increased self-renewal activities, migration, and IR resistance, and rescued the reduction of GSC factors under shPARK7-transfected and serum-differentiation conditions. Intriguingly, PARK7 acted as a co-chaperone of HSP90 by binding to it, protecting EGFRvIII from proteasomal degradation. Knockdown of PARK7 increased the production of reactive oxygen species, inducing partial apoptosis and enhancing IR sensitivity in GSCs. Finally, PARK7 knockdown increased mouse survival and IR sensitivity in vivo. Based on these data, we propose that PARK7 plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of stemness and therapeutic resistance in GSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Yub Kim
- Radiation Therapeutics Development Team, Division of Radiation Cancer Science, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Radiation Therapeutics Development Team, Division of Radiation Cancer Science, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,School of Biomedical Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan-Woong Jung
- Radiation Therapeutics Development Team, Division of Radiation Cancer Science, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Il Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine Guro Hospital, 148, Gurodong-ro, Guro-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hee Lee
- Department of Marine Food Science and Technology, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangwon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Myung-Jin Park
- Radiation Therapeutics Development Team, Division of Radiation Cancer Science, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Ashrafizadeh M, Taeb S, Hushmandi K, Orouei S, Shahinozzaman M, Zabolian A, Moghadam ER, Raei M, Zarrabi A, Khan H, Najafi M. Cancer and SOX proteins: New insight into their role in ovarian cancer progression/inhibition. Pharmacol Res 2020; 161:105159. [PMID: 32818654 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors are potential targets in disease therapy, particularly in cancer. This is due to the fact that transcription factors regulate a variety of cellular events, and their modulation has opened a new window in cancer therapy. Sex-determining region Y (SRY)-related high-mobility group (HMG) box (SOX) proteins are potential transcription factors that are involved in developmental processes such as embryogenesis. It has been reported that abnormal expression of SOX proteins is associated with development of different cancers, particularly ovarian cancer (OC). In the present review, our aim is to provide a mechanistic review of involvement of SOX members in OC. SOX members may suppress and/or promote aggressiveness and proliferation of OC cells. Clinical studies have also confirmed the potential of transcription factors as diagnostic and prognostic factors in OC. Notably, studies have demonstrated the relationship between SOX members and other molecular pathways such as ST6Ga1-I, PI3K, ERK and so on, leading to more complexity. Furthermore, SOX members can be affected by upstream mediators such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and so on. It is worth mentioning that the expression of each member of SOX proteins is corelated with different stages of OC. Furthermore, their expression determines the response of OC cells to chemotherapy. These topics are discussed in this review to shed some light on role of SOX transcription factors in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahram Taeb
- Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima Orouei
- MSc. Student, Department of Genetics, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Md Shahinozzaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Amirhossein Zabolian
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Rahmani Moghadam
- Department of Anatomical sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Raei
- Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey; Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey.
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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Functional characterization of SOX2 as an anticancer target. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:135. [PMID: 32728033 PMCID: PMC7391717 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00242-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SOX2 is a well-characterized pluripotent factor that is essential for stem cell self-renewal, reprogramming, and homeostasis. The cellular levels of SOX2 are precisely regulated by a complicated network at the levels of transcription, post-transcription, and post-translation. In many types of human cancer, SOX2 is dysregulated due to gene amplification and protein overexpression. SOX2 overexpression is associated with poor survival of cancer patients. Mechanistically, SOX2 promotes proliferation, survival, invasion/metastasis, cancer stemness, and drug resistance. SOX2 is, therefore, an attractive anticancer target. However, little progress has been made in the efforts to discover SOX2 inhibitors, largely due to undruggable nature of SOX2 as a transcription factor. In this review, we first briefly introduced SOX2 as a transcription factor, its domain structure, normal physiological functions, and its involvement in human cancers. We next discussed its role in embryonic development and stem cell-renewal. We then mainly focused on three aspects of SOX2: (a) the regulatory mechanisms of SOX2, including how SOX2 level is regulated, and how SOX2 cross-talks with multiple signaling pathways to control growth and survival; (b) the role of SOX2 in tumorigenesis and drug resistance; and (c) current drug discovery efforts on targeting SOX2, and the future perspectives to discover specific SOX2 inhibitors for effective cancer therapy.
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13
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Tiwari R, Manzar N, Ateeq B. Dynamics of Cellular Plasticity in Prostate Cancer Progression. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:130. [PMID: 32754615 PMCID: PMC7365877 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the current advances in the treatment for prostate cancer, the patients often develop resistance to the conventional therapeutic interventions. Therapy-induced drug resistance and tumor progression have been associated with cellular plasticity acquired due to reprogramming at the molecular and phenotypic levels. The plasticity of the tumor cells is mainly governed by two factors: cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic. The cell-intrinsic factors involve alteration in the genetic or epigenetic regulators, while cell-extrinsic factors include microenvironmental cues and drug-induced selective pressure. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness are two important hallmarks that dictate cellular plasticity in multiple cancer types including prostate. Emerging evidence has also pinpointed the role of tumor cell plasticity in driving anti-androgen induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a lethal and therapy-resistant subtype. In this review, we discuss the role of cellular plasticity manifested due to genetic, epigenetic alterations and cues from the tumor microenvironment, and their role in driving therapy resistant prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bushra Ateeq
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
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14
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Abstract
The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) is frequently expressed at elevated levels in different forms of cancer and expression often correlates positively with cancer progression and poor prognosis. Different mutant forms of this protein also contribute to cancer heterogeneity. A constitutively active form of EGFR, EGFRvIII is one of the most important variants. EGFR is responsible for the maintenance and functions of cancer stem cells (CSCs), including stemness, metabolism, immunomodulatory-activity, dormancy and therapy-resistance. EGFR regulates these pathways through several signaling cascades, and often cooperates with other RTKs to exert further control. Inhibitors of EGFR have been extensively studied and display some anticancer efficacy. However, CSCs can also acquire resistance to EGFR inhibitors making effective therapy even more difficult. To ameliorate this limitation of EGFR inhibitors when used as single agents, it may be of value to simultaneously combine multiple EGFR inhibitors or use EGFR inhibitors with regulators of other important cancer phenotype regulating molecules, such as STAT3, or involved in important processes such as DNA repair. These combinatorial approaches require further experimental confirmation, but if successful would expand and improve therapeutic outcomes employing EGFR inhibitors as one arm of the therapy.
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15
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Triana-Martínez F, Loza MI, Domínguez E. Beyond Tumor Suppression: Senescence in Cancer Stemness and Tumor Dormancy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020346. [PMID: 32028565 PMCID: PMC7072600 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we provide an overview of the importance of cellular fate in cancer as a group of diseases of abnormal cell growth. Tumor development and progression is a highly dynamic process, with several phases of evolution. The existing evidence about the origin and consequences of cancer cell fate specification (e.g., proliferation, senescence, stemness, dormancy, quiescence, and cell cycle re-entry) in the context of tumor formation and metastasis is discussed. The interplay between these dynamic tumor cell phenotypes, the microenvironment, and the immune system is also reviewed in relation to cancer. We focus on the role of senescence during cancer progression, with a special emphasis on its relationship with stemness and dormancy. Selective interventions on senescence and dormancy cell fates, including the specific targeting of cancer cell populations to prevent detrimental effects in aging and disease, are also reviewed. A new conceptual framework about the impact of synthetic lethal strategies by using senogenics and then senolytics is given, with the promise of future directions on innovative anticancer therapies.
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16
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Lv XX, Zheng XY, Yu JJ, Ma HR, Hua C, Gao RT. EGFR enhances the stemness and progression of oral cancer through inhibiting autophagic degradation of SOX2. Cancer Med 2019; 9:1131-1140. [PMID: 31823521 PMCID: PMC6997074 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is highly expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and correlates with poor prognosis. EGFR has been demonstrated to be associated with cancer stem cell traits in HNSCC. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is far from elucidated. Here, SOX2, one of the most important stem cell markers, was identified as a binding partner and substrate of EGFR. EGFR signaling inhibition decreases SOX2 expression by promoting its autophagic degradation. Mechanistically, EGFR activation induces SOX2 phosphorylation at the Y277 site and reduces its ubiquitination, which inhibits its association with p62 and subsequent autophagic degradation. Gefitinib, an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, shows in vitro and in vivo protective effects against oral cancer cells that can be reversed through autophagy inhibition. Our study suggests that EGFR plays an important role in the development of cancer stem cells by stabilizing SOX2. Targeting EGFR in combination with conventional chemotherapy might be a promising strategy for the treatment of HNSCC through elimination of cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xi Lv
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China.,Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zheng
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jiao-Jiao Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Hua-Rui Ma
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Hua
- College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Run-Tao Gao
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
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17
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Dorsett KA, Jones RB, Ankenbauer KE, Hjelmeland AB, Bellis SL. Sox2 promotes expression of the ST6Gal-I glycosyltransferase in ovarian cancer cells. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:93. [PMID: 31610800 PMCID: PMC6792265 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-019-0574-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ST6Gal-I glycosyltransferase, which adds α2–6-linked sialic acids to N-glycosylated proteins is upregulated in a wide range of malignancies including ovarian cancer. Prior studies have shown that ST6Gal-I-mediated sialylation of select surface receptors remodels intracellular signaling to impart cancer stem cell (CSC) characteristics. However, the mechanisms that contribute to ST6Gal-I expression in stem-like cancer cells are poorly understood. Results Herein, we identify the master stem cell transcription factor, Sox2, as a novel regulator of ST6Gal-I expression. Interestingly, SOX2 and ST6GAL1 are located within the same tumor-associated amplicon, 3q26, and these two genes exhibit coordinate gains in copy number across multiple cancers including ~ 25% of ovarian serious adenocarcinomas. In conjunction with genetic co-amplification, our studies suggest that Sox2 directly binds the ST6GAL1 promoter to drive transcription. ST6Gal-I expression is directed by at least four distinct promoters, and we identified the P3 promoter as the predominant promoter utilized by ovarian cancer cells. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays revealed that Sox2 binds regions proximal to the P3 promoter. To confirm that Sox2 regulates ST6Gal-I expression, Sox2 was either overexpressed or knocked-down in various ovarian cancer cell lines. Sox2 overexpression induced an increase in ST6Gal-I mRNA and protein, as well as surface α2–6 sialylation, whereas Sox2 knock-down suppressed levels of ST6Gal-I mRNA, protein and surface α2–6 sialylation. Conclusions These data suggest a process whereby SOX2 and ST6GAL1 are coordinately amplified in cancer cells, with the Sox2 protein then binding the ST6GAL1 promoter to further augment ST6Gal-I expression. Our collective results provide new insight into mechanisms that upregulate ST6Gal-I expression in ovarian cancer cells, and also point to the possibility that some of the CSC characteristics commonly attributed to Sox2 may, in part, be mediated through the sialyltransferase activity of ST6Gal-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn A Dorsett
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, MCLM 350, 1918 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Robert B Jones
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, MCLM 350, 1918 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Katherine E Ankenbauer
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, MCLM 350, 1918 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Anita B Hjelmeland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, MCLM 350, 1918 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Susan L Bellis
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, MCLM 350, 1918 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA.
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18
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Vaddi PK, Stamnes MA, Cao H, Chen S. Elimination of SOX2/OCT4-Associated Prostate Cancer Stem Cells Blocks Tumor Development and Enhances Therapeutic Response. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091331. [PMID: 31500347 PMCID: PMC6769476 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX2 and OCT4 are key regulators of embryonic stem cell pluripotency. They are overexpressed in prostate cancers and have been associated with cancer stem cell (CSC) properties. However, reliable tools for detecting and targeting SOX2/OCT4-overexpressing cells are lacking, limiting our understanding of their roles in prostate cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Here, we show that a fluorescent reporter called SORE6 can identify SOX2/OCT4-overexpressing prostate cancer cells. Among tumor cells, the SORE6 reporter identified a small fraction with CSC hallmarks: rapid self-renewal, the capability to form tumors and metastasize, and resistance to chemotherapies. Transcriptome and biochemical analyses identified PI3K/AKT signaling as critical for maintaining the SORE6+ population. Moreover, a SORE6-driven herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (TK) expression construct could selectively ablate SORE6+ cells in tumors, blocking tumor initiation and progression, and sensitizing tumors to chemotherapy. This study demonstrates a key role of SOX2/OCT4-associated prostate cancer stem cells in tumor development and therapeutic resistance, and identifies the SORE6 reporter system as a useful tool for characterizing CSCs functions in a native tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasanna Kumar Vaddi
- The Department of Pharmacology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Mark A Stamnes
- The Department of Molecular Physiology and Physics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Huojun Cao
- The Department of Endodontics, College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Songhai Chen
- The Department of Pharmacology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
- The Department of Internal Medicine, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
- The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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Novak D, Hüser L, Elton JJ, Umansky V, Altevogt P, Utikal J. SOX2 in development and cancer biology. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 67:74-82. [PMID: 31412296 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor SOX2 is essential for embryonic development and plays a crucial role in maintaining the stemness of embryonic cells and various adult stem cell populations. On the other hand, dysregulation of SOX2 expression is associated with a multitude of cancer types and it has been shown that SOX2 positively affects cancer cell traits such as the capacity to proliferate, migrate, invade and metastasize. Moreover, there is growing evidence that SOX2 mediates resistance towards established cancer therapies and that it is expressed in cancer stem cells. These findings indicate that studying the role of SOX2 in the context of cancer progression could lead to the development of new therapeutic options. In this review, the current knowledge about the role of SOX2 in development, maintenance of stemness, cancer progression and the resistance towards cancer therapies is summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Novak
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Laura Hüser
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jonathan J Elton
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Viktor Umansky
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Altevogt
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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20
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Murata K, Saga R, Monzen S, Tsuruga E, Hasegawa K, Hosokawa Y. Understanding the mechanism underlying the acquisition of radioresistance in human prostate cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:5830-5838. [PMID: 31186811 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquisition of radioresistance (RR) has been reported during cancer treatment with fractionated irradiation. However, RR is poorly understood in the prognosis of radiotherapy. Although radiotherapy is important in the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa), acquisition of RR has been reported in PCa with an increased number of cancer stem cells (CSCs), neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. However, to the best of our knowledge, the mechanism underlying RR acquisition during fractionated irradiation remains unclear. In the present study, human PCa cell lines were subjected to fractionated irradiation according to a fixed schedule as follows: Irradiation (IR)1, 2 Gy/day with a total of 20 Gy; IR2, 4 Gy/day with a total of 20 Gy; and IR3, 4 Gy/day with a total of 56 Gy. The expression of cluster of differentiation (CD)44, a CSC marker, was identified to be increased by fractionated irradiation, particularly in DU145 cells. The expression levels of CD133 and CD138 were increased compared with those in parental cells following a single irradiation or multiple irradiations; however, the expression levels decreased with subsequent irradiation. RR was evidently acquired by exposure to 56 Gy radiation, which resulted in increased expression of the NED markers CD133 and CD138, and increased mRNA expression levels of the pluripotency-associated genes octamer-binding transcription factor 4 and Nanog homeobox. These data indicate that radiation-induced CSCs emerge due to the exposure of cells to fractionated irradiation. In addition, the consequent increase in the expression of NED markers is possibly induced by the increased expression of pluripotency-associated genes. Therefore, it can be suggested that cancer cells acquire RR due to increased expression of pluripotency-associated genes following exposure to fractionated irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosho Murata
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
| | - Ryo Saga
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
| | - Satoru Monzen
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
| | - Echi Tsuruga
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hasegawa
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
| | - Yoichiro Hosokawa
- Department of Radiation Science, Division of Medical Life Sciences, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8564, Japan
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21
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The Contributions of Prostate Cancer Stem Cells in Prostate Cancer Initiation and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040434. [PMID: 30934773 PMCID: PMC6521153 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Research in the last decade has clearly revealed a critical role of prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) in prostate cancer (PC). Prostate stem cells (PSCs) reside in both basal and luminal layers, and are the target cells of oncogenic transformation, suggesting a role of PCSCs in PC initiation. Mutations in PTEN, TP53, and RB1 commonly occur in PC, particularly in metastasis and castration-resistant PC. The loss of PTEN together with Ras activation induces partial epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is a major mechanism that confers plasticity to cancer stem cells (CSCs) and PCSCs, which contributes to metastasis. While PTEN inactivation leads to PC, it is not sufficient for metastasis, the loss of PTEN concurrently with the inactivation of both TP53 and RB1 empower lineage plasticity in PC cells, which substantially promotes PC metastasis and the conversion to PC adenocarcinoma to neuroendocrine PC (NEPC), demonstrating the essential function of TP53 and RB1 in the suppression of PCSCs. TP53 and RB1 suppress lineage plasticity through the inhibition of SOX2 expression. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence supporting a major role of PCSCs in PC initiation and metastasis, as well as the underlying mechanisms regulating PCSCs. These discussions will be developed along with the cancer stem cell (CSC) knowledge in other cancer types.
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22
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Phi LTH, Sari IN, Wijaya YT, Kim KS, Park K, Cho AE, Kwon HY. Ginsenoside Rd Inhibits the Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer via Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Axis. IUBMB Life 2018; 71:601-610. [PMID: 30576064 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ginsenoside Rd is a saponin from ginseng and has been reported to have various biological activities. However, the effect of ginsenoside Rd on the metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown. Here, we found that ginsenoside Rd decreased the colony-forming ability, migration, invasion, and wound-healing abilities of CRC cells, although it did not affect cell proliferation. In addition, using an inverse-docking assay, we found that ginsenoside Rd bound to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) with a high binding affinity, inducing the downregulation of stemness- and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes; these were partially rescued by either exogenous EGF treatment or ectopic expression of SOX2. Furthermore, ginsenoside Rd significantly decreased the number and size of tumor metastasis nodules in the livers, lungs, and kidneys of mouse model of metastasis. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 71(5):601-610, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Thi Hanh Phi
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, 31151, Republic of Korea
| | - Ita Novita Sari
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, 31151, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoseph Toni Wijaya
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, 31151, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Seock Kim
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, 31151, Republic of Korea
| | - Kichul Park
- Department of Bioinformatics, Korea University, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Art E Cho
- Department of Bioinformatics, Korea University, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyog Young Kwon
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, 31151, Republic of Korea
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23
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Yang YG, Koh YW, Sari IN, Jun N, Lee S, Phi LTH, Kim KS, Wijaya YT, Lee SH, Baek MJ, Jeong D, Kwon HY. Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 1-mediated EGFR/SOX2 signaling axis is essential for progression of non-small cell lung cancer. Int J Cancer 2018; 144:2020-2032. [PMID: 30318841 PMCID: PMC6587945 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Emerging data indicate that interferon‐induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1) plays an important role in many cancers. However, it remains unclear whether IFITM1 is functionally indispensable in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, using NSCLC cell lines and patient‐derived samples, we show that IFITM1 is essentially required for the progression of NSCLC in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, IFITM1 depletion resulted in a significant reduction in sphere formation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells in vitro; these events were inversely correlated with the ectopic expression of IFITM1. In addition, tumor development was significantly impaired in the absence of IFITM1 in vivo. Mechanistically, epidermal growth factor receptor/sex‐determining region Y‐box 2 (EGFR/SOX2) signaling axis was compromised in the absence of IFITM1, and the ectopic expression of SOX2 partially rescued the defects caused by IFITM1 depletion. More importantly, using 226 patient‐derived samples, we demonstrate that a high level of IFITM1 expression is associated with a poor overall survival (OS) rate in adenocarcinoma but not in squamous cell carcinoma. Collectively, these data suggest that IFITM1 is a poor prognostic marker of adenocarcinoma and an attractive target to develop novel therapeutics for NSCLC. What's new? Interferon response genes play key roles in pathogen defense but emerging evidence also link them with cancer. The authors report that interferon‐induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1) critically regulates epidermal growth factor receptor‐mediated signaling in nonsmall lung cancer models and is associated with a poor prognosis of patients with adenocarcinoma. This expands the function of this innate defense factor and might lead to improved clinical management of individuals afflicted with lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Gui Yang
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Wha Koh
- Department of Pathology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ita Novita Sari
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayoung Jun
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Lee
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Lan Thi Hanh Phi
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Seock Kim
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoseph Toni Wijaya
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hun Lee
- Medical Science Research Institute, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo-Jun Baek
- Department of surgery, College of medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjun Jeong
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyog Young Kwon
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-bio Science (SIMS), Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
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24
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PHF20L1 antagonizes SOX2 proteolysis triggered by the MLL1/WDR5 complexes. J Transl Med 2018; 98:1627-1641. [PMID: 30089852 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-018-0106-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional factor SOX2 regulates stem cell pluripotency, cell differentiation and tumorigenesis. As a key factor, the expression of SOX2 is tightly regulated at transcriptional and post-translational levels. However, the underlying mechanism of SOX2 protein stability remains to be elucidated. Here we show that the histone-lysine N-methyltransferase MLL1/WDR5 complexes physically interact with SOX2 and evoke SOX2 proteolysis, possibly through methylation on a potential site lysine 42 (K42). Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated gene silencing of the components of the MLL1/WDR5 complexes WDR5, MLL1, RBBP5, and ASH2L lead to the accumulation of SOX2, while forced expression of WDR5 promotes SOX2 ubiquitination and proteolysis. Conversely, PHD finger protein 20-like protein 1 (PHF20L1) associates with SOX2, antagonizes SOX2 ubiquitination and the sequential degradation induced by the MLL1/WDR5 complexes. RNA interferences of PHF20L1 promote the degradation of SOX2, while forced expression of PHF20L1 stabilizes SOX2. Co-silencing of MLL1/WDR5 components and PHF20L1 preclude degradation of SOX2 induced by knockdown of PHF20L1. Moreover, co-expression of PHF20L1 and WDR5 prevent ubiquitination of SOX2 triggered by WDR5 over-expression. However, SOX2 mutant K42R is non-sensitive to the MLL1/WDR5 complexes or PHF20L1. In addition, PHF20L1 may regulate the stability of SOX2 through its malignant brain tumor (MBT) domain, since the degradation of SOX2 is accelerated by UNC1215 and UNC669, inhibitors that bind to the MBT domain. Furthermore, abundant expression of SOX2 is highly correlated to immature ovarian teratoma. Loss of PHF20L1 weakened the tumor initiation ability of PA-1 cells while ablation of MLL1 promoted the growth of tumors. Thus, our studies reveal an antagonistic mechanism by which the protein stability of SOX2 is regulated by the MLL1/WDR5 complexes and PHF20L1, possibly through methylation of SOX2 protein, and provide a novel perspective on SOX2-positive cancer treatment.
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25
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Soundararajan R, Paranjape AN, Maity S, Aparicio A, Mani SA. EMT, stemness and tumor plasticity in aggressive variant neuroendocrine prostate cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2018; 1870:229-238. [PMID: 29981816 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine/Aggressive Variant Prostate Cancers are lethal variants of the disease, with an aggressive clinical course and very short responses to conventional therapy. The age-adjusted incidence rate for this tumor sub-type has steadily increased over the past 20 years in the United States, with no reduction in the associated mortality rate. The molecular networks fueling its emergence and sustenance are still obscure; however, many factors have been associated with the onset and progression of neuroendocrine differentiation in clinically typical adenocarcinomas including loss of androgen-receptor expression and/or signaling, conventional therapy, and dysregulated cytokine function. "Tumor-plasticity" and the ability to dedifferentiate into alternate cell lineages are central to this process. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) signaling pathways are major promoters of stem-cell properties in prostate tumor cells. In this review, we examine the contributions of EMT-induced cellular-plasticity and stem-cell signaling pathways to the progression of Neuroendocrine/Aggressive Variant Prostate Cancers in the light of potential therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Soundararajan
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Anurag N Paranjape
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sankar Maity
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ana Aparicio
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sendurai A Mani
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Metastasis Research Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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26
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McCrea EM, Lee DK, Sissung TM, Figg WD. Precision medicine applications in prostate cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2018; 10:1758835918776920. [PMID: 29977347 PMCID: PMC6024288 DOI: 10.1177/1758835918776920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aided by developments in diagnostics and therapeutics, healthcare is increasingly moving toward precision medicine, in which treatment is customized to each individual. We discuss the relevance of precision medicine in prostate cancer, including gene targets, therapeutics and resistance mechanisms. We foresee precision medicine becoming an integral component of prostate cancer management to increase response to therapy and prolong survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edel M. McCrea
- Molecular Pharmacology Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel K. Lee
- Medical Oncology Service, and the Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tristan M. Sissung
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Office of the Clinical Director, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William D. Figg
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Office of the Clinical Director, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville Pike, Bldg 10/Room 5A01, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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27
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Huang B, Lv DJ, Wang C, Shu FP, Gong ZC, Xie T, Yu YZ, Song XL, Xie JJ, Li S, Liu YM, Qi H, Zhao SC. Suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell properties mediate the anti-cancer effects of ethyl pyruvate via regulation of the AKT/nuclear factor-κB pathway in prostate cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:2271-2278. [PMID: 30008929 PMCID: PMC6036506 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is a leading cause of mortality among cases of prostate cancer (PCa). Current treatment options for CRPC are limited. Ethyl pyruvate (EP), a lipophilic derivative of pyruvic acid, has been reported to have antitumor activities. In the present study, the efficacy of EP against PCa was investigated using two human PCa cell lines and a mouse xenograft tumor model. PC3 and CWR22RV1 cells were treated with EP, and cytotoxicity was evaluated via Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays, while cell cycle distribution was assessed by flow cytometry. Changes in cell migration and invasion caused by EP treatment were also evaluated with Transwell and wound healing assays, and changes in the expression of intracellular signaling pathway components were detected by western blotting. EP treatment reduced cell viability, induced G1 arrest, and activated the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Additionally, the in vivo experiments revealed that EP administration markedly inhibited tumor growth. EP also reversed epithelial-mesenchymal transition and suppressed cancer stem cell properties in part through negative regulation of AKT/nuclear factor-κB signaling. These results indicate that EP has anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo, and is therefore a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Huang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Dao-Jun Lv
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Fang-Peng Shu
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Gong
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Tao Xie
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Zhong Yu
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Xian-Lu Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510095, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Jia Xie
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Sen Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Ya-Meng Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Huan Qi
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Shan-Chao Zhao
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China.,The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
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28
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Oh J, Yoon HJ, Jang JH, Kim DH, Surh YJ. The standardized Korean Red Ginseng extract and its ingredient ginsenoside Rg3 inhibit manifestation of breast cancer stem cell-like properties through modulation of self-renewal signaling. J Ginseng Res 2018; 43:421-430. [PMID: 31308814 PMCID: PMC6606826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ginsenoside Rg3, one of active components of red ginseng, has chemopreventive and anticancer potential. Cancer stem cells retain self-renewal properties which account for cancer recurrence and resistance to anticancer therapy. In our present study, we investigated whether the standardized Korean Red Ginseng extract (RGE) and Rg3 could modulate the manifestation of breast cancer stem cell–like features through regulation of self-renewal activity. Methods The effects of RGE and Rg3 on the proportion of CD44high/CD24low cells, as representative characteristics of stem-like breast cancer cells, were determined by flow cytometry. The mammosphere formation assay was performed to assess self-renewal capacities of breast cancer cells. Aldehyde dehydrogenase activity of MCF-7 mammospheres was measured by the ALDEFLUOR assay. The expression levels of Sox-2, Bmi-1, and P-Akt and the nuclear localization of hypoxia inducible factor-1α in MCF-7 mammospheres were verified by immunoblot analysis. Results Both RGE and Rg3 decreased the viability of breast cancer cells and significantly reduced the populations of CD44high/CD24low in MDA-MB-231 cells. RGE and Rg3 treatment attenuated the expression of Sox-2 and Bmi-1 by inhibiting the nuclear localization of hypoxia inducible factor-1α in MCF-7 mammospheres. Suppression of the manifestation of breast cancer stem cell–like properties by Rg3 was mediated through the blockade of Akt-mediated self-renewal signaling. Conclusion This study suggests that Rg3 has a therapeutic potential targeting breast cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisun Oh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jin Yoon
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Jang
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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29
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Ruggero K, Farran-Matas S, Martinez-Tebar A, Aytes A. Epigenetic Regulation in Prostate Cancer Progression. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 4:101-115. [PMID: 29888169 PMCID: PMC5976687 DOI: 10.1007/s40610-018-0095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review An important number of newly identified molecular alterations in prostate cancer affect gene encoding master regulators of chromatin biology epigenetic regulation. This review will provide an updated view of the key epigenetic mechanisms underlying prostate cancer progression, therapy resistance, and potential actionable mechanisms and biomarkers. Recent Findings Key players in chromatin biology and epigenetic master regulators has been recently described to be crucially altered in metastatic CRPC and tumors that progress to AR independency. As such, epigenetic dysregulation represents a driving mechanism in the reprograming of prostate cancer cells as they lose AR-imposed identity. Summary Chromatin integrity and accessibility for transcriptional regulation are key features altered in cancer progression, and particularly relevant in nuclear hormone receptor-driven tumors like prostate cancer. Understanding how chromatin remodeling dictates prostate development and how its deregulation contributes to prostate cancer onset and progression may improve risk stratification and treatment selection for prostate cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Ruggero
- Programs of Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Oncology (ONCOBell), Catalan Institute of Oncology, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Granvia de l'Hopitalet, 199 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sonia Farran-Matas
- Programs of Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Oncology (ONCOBell), Catalan Institute of Oncology, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Granvia de l'Hopitalet, 199 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrian Martinez-Tebar
- Programs of Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Oncology (ONCOBell), Catalan Institute of Oncology, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Granvia de l'Hopitalet, 199 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alvaro Aytes
- Programs of Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapeutics in Oncology (ONCOBell), Catalan Institute of Oncology, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Granvia de l'Hopitalet, 199 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain.,Programs of Cancer Therapeutics Resistance (ProCURE), Catalan Institute of Oncology, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
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30
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Wuebben EL, Rizzino A. The dark side of SOX2: cancer - a comprehensive overview. Oncotarget 2018; 8:44917-44943. [PMID: 28388544 PMCID: PMC5546531 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pluripotency-associated transcription factor SOX2 is essential during mammalian embryogenesis and later in life, but SOX2 expression can also be highly detrimental. Over the past 10 years, SOX2 has been shown to be expressed in at least 25 different cancers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the roles of SOX2 in cancer and focuses on two broad topics. The first delves into the expression and function of SOX2 in cancer focusing on the connection between SOX2 levels and tumor grade as well as patient survival. As part of this discussion, we address the developing connection between SOX2 expression and tumor drug resistance. We also call attention to an under-appreciated property of SOX2, its levels in actively proliferating tumor cells appear to be optimized to maximize tumor growth - too little or too much SOX2 dramatically alters tumor growth. The second topic of this review focuses on the exquisite array of molecular mechanisms that control the expression and transcriptional activity of SOX2. In addition to its complex regulation at the transcriptional level, SOX2 expression and activity are controlled carefully by microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and post-translational modifications. In the Conclusion and Future Perspectives section, we point out that there are still important unanswered questions. Addressing these questions is expected to lead to new insights into the functions of SOX2 in cancer, which will help design novels strategies for more effectively treating some of the most deadly cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Wuebben
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Angie Rizzino
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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31
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Wang Y, Shao N, Mao X, Zhu M, Fan W, Shen Z, Xiao R, Wang C, Bao W, Xu X, Yang C, Dong J, Yu D, Wu Y, Zhu C, Wen L, Lu X, Lu YJ, Feng N. MiR-4638-5p inhibits castration resistance of prostate cancer through repressing Kidins220 expression and PI3K/AKT pathway activity. Oncotarget 2018; 7:47444-47464. [PMID: 27329728 PMCID: PMC5216953 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, conserved segments of non-coding RNA which play a significant role in prostate cancer development and progression. To identify miRNAs associated with castration resistance, we performed miRNA microarray analysis comparing castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with androgen dependent prostate cancer (ADPC). We identified common underexpression of miR-4638-5p in CRPC compared to ADPC samples, which were further confirmed by quantitative PCR analysis. The role of miR-4638-5p in prostate cancer androgen-independent growth has been demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. We also identified Kidins220 as a target gene directly regulated by miR-4638-5p and shRNA-mediated knockdown of Kidins220 phenocopied miR-4638-5p restoration. Subsequently, we revealed that Kidins220 activates PI3K/AKT pathway, which plays a key role in CRPC. Loss of miR- 4638-5p may lead to CRPC through the activity of Kidins220 and PI3K/AKT pathway. Furthermore, we found that miR-4638-5p, through regulating Kidins220 and the downstream activity of VEGF and PI3K/AKT pathway, influences prostate cancer progression via angiogenesis. The identification of miR-4638-5p down-regulation in CRPC and the understanding of the functional role of miR-4638-5p and its downstream genes/pathways have the potential to develop biomarkers for CRPC onset and to identify novel targets for novel forms of treatments of this lethal form of PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China.,Wuxi Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ning Shao
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China.,Wuxi Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xueying Mao
- Centre for Molecular Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Minmin Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Weifei Fan
- Jiangsu Province Geriatric Institute, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhixiang Shen
- Jiangsu Province Geriatric Institute, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuncai Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenping Bao
- College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyu Xu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jian Dong
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Deshui Yu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Caixia Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Liting Wen
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaojie Lu
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yong-Jie Lu
- Centre for Molecular Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ninghan Feng
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China.,Wuxi Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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32
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Gupta N, Gopal K, Wu C, Alshareef A, Chow A, Wu F, Wang P, Ye X, Bigras G, Lai R. Phosphorylation of Sox2 at Threonine 116 is a Potential Marker to Identify a Subset of Breast Cancer Cells with High Tumorigenecity and Stem-Like Features. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10020041. [PMID: 29401647 PMCID: PMC5836073 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10020041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously identified a novel phenotypic dichotomy in breast cancer (BC) based on the response to a SRR2 (Sox2 regulatory region 2) reporter, with reporter responsive (RR) cells being more tumorigenic/stem-like than reporter unresponsive (RU) cells. Since the expression level of Sox2 is comparable between the two cell subsets, we hypothesized that post-translational modifications of Sox2 contribute to their differential reporter response and phenotypic differences. By liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, we found Sox2 to be phosphorylated in RR but not RU cells. Threonine 116 is an important phosphorylation site, since transfection of the T116A mutant into RR cells significantly decreased the SRR2 reporter luciferase activity and the RR-associated phenotype. Oxidative stress-induced conversion of RU into RR cells was accompanied by Sox2 phosphorylation at T116 and increased Sox2-DNA binding. In a cohort of BC, we found significant correlations between the proportion of tumor cells immuno-reactive with anti-phosphorylated Sox2T116 and a high tumor grade (p = 0.006), vascular invasion (p = 0.001) and estrogen receptor expression (p = 0.032). In conclusion, our data suggests that phosphorylation of Sox2T116 contributes to the tumorigenic/stem-like features in RR cells. Detection of phospho-Sox2T116 may be useful in identifying a small subset of tumor cells carrying stem-like/tumorigenic features in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Keshav Gopal
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Chengsheng Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Abdulraheem Alshareef
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Alexandra Chow
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Fang Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Xiaoxia Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Gilbert Bigras
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Raymond Lai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
- DynaLIFEDX Medical Laboratories, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
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33
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Wuebben EL, Wilder PJ, Cox JL, Grunkemeyer JA, Caffrey T, Hollingsworth MA, Rizzino A. SOX2 functions as a molecular rheostat to control the growth, tumorigenicity and drug responses of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. Oncotarget 2017; 7:34890-906. [PMID: 27145457 PMCID: PMC5085197 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly deadly malignancy. Expression of the stem cell transcription factor SOX2 increases during progression of PDAC. Knockdown of SOX2 in PDAC cell lines decreases growth in vitro; whereas, stable overexpression of SOX2 in one PDAC cell line reportedly increases growth in vitro. Here, we reexamined the role of SOX2 in PDAC cells, because inducible SOX2 overexpression in other tumor cell types inhibits growth. In this study, four PDAC cell lines were engineered for inducible overexpression of SOX2 or inducible knockdown of SOX2. Remarkably, inducible overexpression of SOX2 in PDAC cells inhibits growth in vitro and reduces tumorigenicity. Additionally, inducible knockdown of SOX2 in PDAC cells reduces growth in vitro and in vivo. Thus, growth and tumorigenicity of PDAC cells is highly dependent on the expression of optimal levels of SOX2 – a hallmark of molecular rheostats. We also determined that SOX2 alters the responses of PDAC cells to drugs used in PDAC clinical trials. Increasing SOX2 reduces growth inhibition mediated by MEK and AKT inhibitors; whereas knockdown of SOX2 further reduces growth when PDAC cells are treated with these inhibitors. Thus, targeting SOX2, or its mode of action, could improve the treatment of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Wuebben
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA
| | - Phillip J Wilder
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA
| | - Jesse L Cox
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-3135, USA
| | - James A Grunkemeyer
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA
| | - Thomas Caffrey
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA
| | - Michael A Hollingsworth
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA
| | - Angie Rizzino
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5950, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5870, USA
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Russo MV, Esposito S, Tupone MG, Manzoli L, Airoldi I, Pompa P, Cindolo L, Schips L, Sorrentino C, Di Carlo E. SOX2 boosts major tumor progression genes in prostate cancer and is a functional biomarker of lymph node metastasis. Oncotarget 2017; 7:12372-85. [PMID: 26540632 PMCID: PMC4914291 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Critical issues in prostate cancer (PC) are a. identification of molecular drivers of the highly aggressive neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) in adenocarcinoma, and b. early assessment of disease progression. The SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 2 gene, SOX2, is an essential embryonic stem cell gene involved in prostate tumorigenesis. Here we assessed its implications in NED and progression of PC and its diagnostic and prognostic value. Laser microdissection, qRT-PCR, quantitative Methylation-Specific PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze SOX2 gene expression and regulation in 206 PC samples. Results were examined according to the patient's clinical pathological profile and follow-ups. Functional studies were performed using PC cells transfected to overexpress or silence SOX2. SOX2 was consistently downregulated in PC, except in cell clusters lying within lymph node (LN)-positive PC. Multivariate analysis revealed that SOX2 mRNA expression in the primary tumor was significantly associated with LN metastasis. When SOX2 mRNA levels were ≥1.00, relative to (XpressRef) Universal Total RNA, adjusted Odds Ratio was 24.4 (95% CI: 7.54–79.0), sensitivity 0.81 (95% CI: 0.61–0.93) and specificity 0.87 (95% CI: 0.81–0.91). Patients experiencing biochemical recurrence had high median levels of SOX2 mRNA. In both PC and LN metastasis, SOX2 and NED marker, Chromogranin-A, were primarily co-expressed. In PC cells, NED genes were upregulated by SOX2 overexpression and downregulated by its silencing, which also abolished SNAI2/Slug dependent NED. Moreover, SOX2 upregulated neural CAMs, neurotrophins/neurotrophin receptors, pluripotency and epithelial-mesenchymal transition transcription factors, growth, angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors, and promoted PC cell invasiveness and motility. This study discloses novel SOX2 target genes driving NED and spread of PC and proposes SOX2 as a functional biomarker of LN metastasization for PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vincenzo Russo
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy.,Ce.S.I. Biotech, Aging Research Center, "G. d'Annunzio" University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
| | - Silvia Esposito
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy.,Ce.S.I. Biotech, Aging Research Center, "G. d'Annunzio" University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Tupone
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy.,Ce.S.I. Biotech, Aging Research Center, "G. d'Annunzio" University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
| | - Lamberto Manzoli
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Irma Airoldi
- Laboratory of Oncology, Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Pompa
- Operative Unit of Urology, "Santo Spirito" Hospital, Pescara, Italy
| | - Luca Cindolo
- Department of Urology, "San Pio da Pietrelcina" Hospital, Vasto, Italy
| | - Luigi Schips
- Department of Urology, "San Pio da Pietrelcina" Hospital, Vasto, Italy
| | - Carlo Sorrentino
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy.,Ce.S.I. Biotech, Aging Research Center, "G. d'Annunzio" University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
| | - Emma Di Carlo
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy.,Ce.S.I. Biotech, Aging Research Center, "G. d'Annunzio" University Foundation, Chieti, Italy
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Reactive oxygen species generation and increase in mitochondrial copy number: new insight into the potential mechanism of cytotoxicity induced by aurora kinase inhibitor, AZD1152-HQPA. Anticancer Drugs 2017. [PMID: 28639950 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aurora-B kinase overexpression plays important roles in the malignant progression of prostate cancer (PCa). AZD1152-HQPA, as an inhibitor of Aurora-B, has recently emerged as a promising agent for cancer treatment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of AZD1152-HQPA on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondrial function in PCa. We used AZD1152-HQPA (Barasertib), a highly potent and selective inhibitor of Aurora-B kinase. The effects of AZD1152-HQPA on cell viability, DNA content, cell morphology, and ROS production were studied in the androgen-independent PC-3 PCa cell line. Moreover, the mitochondrial copy number and the expression of genes involved in cell survival and cancer stem cell maintenance were investigated. We found that AZD1152-HQPA treatment induced defective cell survival, polyploidy, micronuclei formation, cell enlargement, and cell death by significant overexpression of p73, p21 and downregulation of cell cycle-regulatory genes in a drug concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, AZD1152 treatment led to an excessive ROS generation and an increase in the mitochondrial copy number not only in PC-3 but also in several other malignant cells. AZD1152 treatment also led to downregulation of genes involved in the maintenance of cancer stem cells. Our results showed a functional relationship between the aurora kinase inhibition, an increase in mitochondrial copy number, and ROS generation in therapeutic modalities of cancer. This study suggests that the excessive ROS generation may be a novel mechanism of cytotoxicity induced by the aurora kinase inhibitor, AZD1152-HQPA.
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Li X, Wu JB, Li Q, Shigemura K, Chung LWK, Huang WC. SREBP-2 promotes stem cell-like properties and metastasis by transcriptional activation of c-Myc in prostate cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:12869-84. [PMID: 26883200 PMCID: PMC4914327 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sterol regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2) transcription factor mainly controls cholesterol biosynthesis and homeostasis in normal cells. The role of SREBP-2 in lethal prostate cancer (PCa) progression remains to be elucidated. Here, we showed that expression of SREBP-2 was elevated in advanced pathologic grade and metastatic PCa and significantly associated with poor clinical outcomes. Biofunctional analyses demonstrated that SREBP-2 induced PCa cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Furthermore, overexpression of SREBP-2 increased the PCa stem cell population, prostasphere-forming ability and tumor-initiating capability, whereas genetic silencing of SREBP-2 inhibited PCa cell growth, stemness, and xenograft tumor growth and metastasis. Clinical and mechanistic data showed that SREBP-2 was positively correlated with c-Myc and induced c-Myc activation by directly interacting with an SREBP-2-binding element in the 5′-flanking c-Myc promoter region to drive stemness and metastasis. Collectively, these clinical and experimental results reveal a novel role of SREBP-2 in the induction of a stem cell-like phenotype and PCa metastasis, which sheds light on translational potential by targeting SREBP-2 as a promising therapeutic approach in PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyan Li
- Uro-Oncology Research Program, Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jason Boyang Wu
- Uro-Oncology Research Program, Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Qinlong Li
- Uro-Oncology Research Program, Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Katsumi Shigemura
- Department of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-Ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Leland W K Chung
- Uro-Oncology Research Program, Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Wen-Chin Huang
- Uro-Oncology Research Program, Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Butler SJ, Richardson L, Farias N, Morrison J, Coomber BL. Characterization of cancer stem cell drug resistance in the human colorectal cancer cell lines HCT116 and SW480. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 490:29-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.05.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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38
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Nephronectin plays critical roles in Sox2 expression and proliferation in dental epithelial stem cells via EGF-like repeat domains. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45181. [PMID: 28345658 PMCID: PMC5366923 DOI: 10.1038/srep45181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Tooth development is initiated by epithelial-mesenchymal interactions via basement membrane (BM) and growth factors. In the present study, we found that nephronectin (Npnt), a component of the BM, is highly expressed in the developing tooth. Npnt localizes in the BM on the buccal side of the tooth germ and shows an expression pattern opposite that of the dental epithelial stem cell marker Sox2. To identify the roles of Npnt during tooth development, we performed knockdown and overexpression experiments using ex vivo organ and dental epithelial cell cultures. Our findings showed that loss of Npnt induced ectopic Sox2-positive cells and reduced tooth germ size. Over expression of Npnt showed increased proliferation, whereas the number of Sox2-positive cells was decreased in dental epithelial cells. Npnt contains 5 EGF-like repeat domains, as well as an RGD sequence and MAM domain. We found that the EGF-like repeats are critical for Sox2 expression and cell proliferation. Furthermore, Npnt activated the EGF receptor (EGFR) via the EGF-like repeat domains and induced the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Our results indicate that Npnt plays a critical scaffold role in dental epithelial stem cell differentiation and proliferation, and regulates Sox2 expression during tooth development.
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He J, Shi J, Zhang K, Xue J, Li J, Yang J, Chen J, Wei J, Ren H, Liu X. Sox2 inhibits Wnt-β-catenin signaling and metastatic potency of cisplatin-resistant lung adenocarcinoma cells. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:1693-1701. [PMID: 28259951 PMCID: PMC5365002 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer remains one of the most common cancer-associated mortalities worldwide, and platinum-based doublet chemotherapies are recommended as the first-line treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the frequent development of multidrug resistance, to cisplatin regimens in particular, is a major cause of chemotherapy failure in patients with aggressive NSCLC. Wnt/β-catenin signaling and sex-determining region Y box 2 (Sox2) have been implicated in the development and progression and resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor-targeting therapy in lung cancer. The present study aimed to explore the effects of Wnt/β-catenin and Sox2 signaling on the chemoresistance of cisplatin-resistant lung cancer cells by assessing the effects of Sox2 on Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity, cell migration, invasion and clonogenicity, and susceptibility to cisplatin in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells and cisplatin-resistant A549/DDP cells. The results demonstrated that an enforced expression of Sox2 led to inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity, potentially by upregulating glycogen synthase kinase 3 β in A549 and A549/DDP cells. An overexpression of Sox2 promoted cell migration and invasion, in addition to enhancing the clonogenic capacity in A549 cells. Notably, knockdown Sox2 using short hairpin RNA led to an enhanced susceptibility of A549 and A549/DDP cells to cisplatin, along with increased cell apoptosis. The present study thus suggests that Sox2 may be an important regulator in development of chemoresistance of lung cancer cells and may be a novel therapeutic target for treatment chemoresistant lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxi He
- The Second Division of Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Juan Shi
- The Center of Laboratory Medicine, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Kangjian Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Jing Xue
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, P.R. China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Jiali Yang
- The Center of Laboratory Medicine, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Jun Wei
- The Center of Laboratory Medicine, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Hong Ren
- The Second Division of Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750021, P.R. China
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Kim H, Kim Y, Jeoung D. DDX53 Promotes Cancer Stem Cell-Like Properties and Autophagy. Mol Cells 2017; 40:54-65. [PMID: 28152297 PMCID: PMC5303889 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2017.2258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cancer/testis antigen DDX53 confers anti-cancer drug-resistance, the effect of DDX53 on cancer stem cell-like properties and autophagy remains unknown. MDA-MB-231 (CD133+) cells showed higher expression of DDX53, SOX-2, NANOG and MDR1 than MDA-MB-231 (CD133-). DDX53 increased in vitro self-renewal activity of MCF-7 while decreasing expression of DDX53 by siRNA lowered in vitro self-renewal activity of MDA-MB-231. DDX53 showed an interaction with EGFR and binding to the promoter sequences of EGFR. DDX53 induced resistance to anti-cancer drugs in MCF-7 cells while decreased expression of DDX53 by siRNA increased the sensitivity of MDA-MB-231 to anti-cancer drugs. Negative regulators of DDX53, such as miR-200b and miR-217, increased the sensitivity of MDA-MB-231 to anti-cancer drugs. MDA-MB-231 showed higher expression of autophagy marker proteins such as ATG-5, pBeclin1Ser15 and LC-3I/II compared with MCF-7. DDX53 regulated the expression of marker proteins of autophagy in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. miR-200b and miR-217 negatively regulated the expression of autophagy marker proteins. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed the direct regulation of ATG-5. The decreased expression of ATG-5 by siRNA increased the sensitivity to anti-cancer drugs in MDA-MB-231 cells. In conclusion, DDX53 promotes stem cell-like properties, autophagy, and confers resistance to anti-cancer drugs in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuna Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341,
Korea
| | - Youngmi Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341,
Korea
| | - Dooil Jeoung
- Department of Biochemistry, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341,
Korea
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41
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SOX2 function and Hedgehog signaling pathway are co-conspirators in promoting androgen independent prostate cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1863:253-265. [PMID: 27816521 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Developmentally inclined hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and pluripotency inducing transcription factor SOX2 have been known to work syngerstically during cellular reprogramming events to facilitate efficient differentiation. Hence, it is not surprising that both the factors are actively involved in arbitrating malignant growth, including prostate cancer progression. Here, we have described in details the potential mechanisms by which SOX2 effects neoplastic characteristics in prostate cancer and investigated the consequences of simultaneous down-regulation of SOX2 and HH pathway in androgen-independent human prostate cancer cells. Expression of SOX2 has been determined by qRT-PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry analyses; its functional role determined by gene knockdown using RNAi and over-expression via chemical activation in HaCaT, DU145 and PC-3 cells. Changes in level of cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis profiles were measured by MTT, FACS, chromatin condensation and scratch assays respectively. SOX2 was expressed in all the three cell lines and its inhibition reduced cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. Most importantly, when both SOX2 and HH pathway were targeted simultaneously, cell proliferation was greatly reduced, apoptotic cell population increased drastically and migration potential was reduced. Moreover, gene expression of EMT markers such as E-cadherin and apoptosis related Bcl-2 and Bax was also investigated wherein decrease in E-cadherin and Bcl-2 levels and increase in Bax expression further substantiating our claim. These findings could provide the basis for a novel therapeutic strategy targeting both the effector i.e. SOX2 and perpetuator i.e. HH pathway of aggressive tumorigenic properties in androgen independent prostate cancer.
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Izgi K, Canatan H, Iskender B. Current status in cancer cell reprogramming and its clinical implications. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2016; 143:371-383. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-016-2258-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Cancer stem cell markers in prostate cancer: an immunohistochemical study of ALDH1, SOX2 and EZH2. Pathology 2016; 47:622-8. [PMID: 26517640 DOI: 10.1097/pat.0000000000000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to investigate the immunohistochemical expression and potential prognostic significance of putative cancer stems cell markers ALDH1, EZH2 and SOX2 in prostate cancer.A total of 142 consecutive radical prostatectomies submitted to one laboratory with a diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma between 2008 and 2012 were retrieved and retrospectively studied. Immunohistochemistry for the three markers was performed in each case and both univariate and multivariate analyses were undertaken to evaluate the correlation between the staining patterns and known histopathological prognostic features.ALDH1 showed a statistically significant association with tumour stage p < 0.001), extraprostatic extension (p < 0.001) and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.001). EZH2 correlated with Gleason score (p = 0.044) and lymph node metastases (p = 0.023). SOX2 showed a statistically significant correlation with lymphovascular invasion only (p = 0.018) in both univariate and multivariate analyses.Cancer stem cell markers are variably expressed in prostate adenocarcinoma and immunohistochemical staining for ALDH1 and EZH2 may have a role in predicting tumour aggressiveness before treatment of prostate cancer.
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Pietrobono S, Morandi A, Gagliardi S, Gerlini G, Borgognoni L, Chiarugi P, Arbiser JL, Stecca B. Down-Regulation of SOX2 Underlies the Inhibitory Effects of the Triphenylmethane Gentian Violet on Melanoma Cell Self-Renewal and Survival. J Invest Dermatol 2016; 136:2059-2069. [PMID: 27373978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.06.610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human melanomas contain a population of tumor-initiating cells that are able to maintain the growth of the tumor. We previously showed that the embryonic transcription factor SOX2 is essential for self-renewal and tumorigenicity of human melanoma-initiating cells. However, targeting a transcription factor is still challenging. Gentian violet (GV) is a cationic triphenylmethane dye with potent antifungal and antibacterial activity. Recently, a combination therapy of imiquimod and GV has shown an inhibitory effect against melanoma metastases. Whether and how GV affects melanoma cells remains unknown. Here we show that GV represses melanoma stem cell self-renewal through inhibition of SOX2. Mechanistically, GV hinders EGFR activation and inhibits the signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 [(STAT3)/SOX2] axis. Importantly, we show that GV treatment decreases STAT3 phosphorylation at residue tyrosine 705, thus preventing the translocation of STAT3 into the nucleus and its binding to SOX2 promoter. In addition, GV affects melanoma cell growth by promoting mitochondrial apoptosis and G2 cell cycle arrest. This study shows that in melanoma, GV affects both the stem cell and the tumor bulk compartments, suggesting the potential use of GV in treating human melanoma alone or in combination with targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pietrobono
- Core Research Laboratory-Istituto Toscano Tumori, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Morandi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Sinforosa Gagliardi
- Core Research Laboratory-Istituto Toscano Tumori, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianni Gerlini
- Plastic Surgery Unit, S.M. Annunziata Hospital-Regional Melanoma Referral Center, Istituto Toscano Tumori, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Borgognoni
- Plastic Surgery Unit, S.M. Annunziata Hospital-Regional Melanoma Referral Center, Istituto Toscano Tumori, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Chiarugi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Jack L Arbiser
- Department of Dermatology, Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory-Istituto Toscano Tumori, Viale Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy; Department of Oncology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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Yin Yang 1 is associated with cancer stem cell transcription factors (SOX2, OCT4, BMI1) and clinical implication. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2016; 35:84. [PMID: 27225481 PMCID: PMC4881184 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-016-0359-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is frequently overexpressed in cancerous tissues compared to normal tissues and has regulatory roles in cell proliferation, cell viability, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastasis and drug/immune resistance. YY1 shares many properties with cancer stem cells (CSCs) that drive tumorigenesis, metastasis and drug resistance and are regulated by overexpression of certain transcription factors, including SOX2, OCT4 (POU5F1), BMI1 and NANOG. Based on these similarities, it was expected that YY1 expression would be associated with SOX2, OCT4, BMI1, and NANOG’s expressions and activities. Data mining from the proteomic tissue-based datasets from the Human Protein Atlas were used for protein expression patterns of YY1 and the four CSC markers in 17 types of cancer, including both solid and hematological malignancies. A close association was revealed between the frequency of expressions of YY1 and SOX2 as well as SOX2 and OCT4 in all cancers analyzed. Two types of dynamics were identified based on the nature of their association, namely, inverse or direct, between YY1 and SOX2. These two dynamics define distinctive patterns of BMI1 and OCT4 expressions. The relationship between YY1 and SOX2 expressions as well as the expressions of BMI1 and OCT4 resulted in the classification of four groups of cancers with distinct molecular signatures: 1) Prostate, lung, cervical, endometrial, ovarian and glioma cancers (YY1loSOX2hiBMI1hiOCT4hi) 2) Skin, testis and breast cancers (YY1hiSOX2loBMI1hiOCT4hi) 3) Liver, stomach, renal, pancreatic and urothelial cancers (YY1loSOX2loBMI1hiOCT4hi) and 4) Colorectal cancer, lymphoma and melanoma (YY1hiSOX2hiBMI1loOCT4hi). A regulatory loop is proposed consisting of the cross-talk between the NF-kB/PI3K/AKT pathways and the downstream inter-regulation of target gene products YY1, OCT4, SOX2 and BMI1.
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Chanvorachote P, Luanpitpong S. Iron induces cancer stem cells and aggressive phenotypes in human lung cancer cells. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2016; 310:C728-39. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00322.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Evidence has accumulated in support of the critical impact of cancer stem cells (CSCs) behind the chemotherapeutic failure, cancer metastasis, and subsequent disease recurrence and relapse, but knowledge of how CSCs are regulated is still limited. Redox status of the cells has been shown to dramatically influence cell signaling and CSC-like aggressive behaviors. Here, we investigated how subtoxic concentrations of iron, which have been found to specifically induce cellular hydroxyl radical, affected CSC-like subpopulations of human non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). We reveal for the first time that subchronic iron exposure and higher levels of hydroxyl radical correlated well with increased CSC-like phenotypes. The iron-exposed NSCLC H460 and H292 cells exhibited a remarkable increase in propensities to form CSC spheroids and to proliferate, migrate, and invade in parallel with an increase in level of a well-known CSC marker, ABCG2. We further observed that such phenotypic changes induced by iron were not related to an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Instead, the sex-determining region Y (SRY)-box 9 protein (SOX9) was substantially linked to iron treatment and hydroxyl radical level. Using gene manipulations, including ectopic SOX9 overexpression and SOX9 short hairpin RNA knockdown, we have verified that SOX9 is responsible for CSC enrichment mediated by iron. These findings indicate a novel role of iron via hydroxyl radical in CSC regulation and its importance in aggressive cancer behaviors and likely metastasis through SOX9 upregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pithi Chanvorachote
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Cell-based Drug and Health Products Development Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; and
| | - Sudjit Luanpitpong
- Cell-based Drug and Health Products Development Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; and
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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47
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Skoda J, Nunukova A, Loja T, Zambo I, Neradil J, Mudry P, Zitterbart K, Hermanova M, Hampl A, Sterba J, Veselska R. Cancer stem cell markers in pediatric sarcomas: Sox2 is associated with tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:9535-48. [PMID: 26790443 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4837-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The three most frequent pediatric sarcomas, i.e., Ewing's sarcoma, osteosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma, were examined in this study: three cell lines derived from three primary tumor samples were analyzed from each of these tumor types. Detailed comparative analysis of the expression of three putative cancer stem cell markers related to sarcomas-ABCG2, CD133, and nestin-was performed on both primary tumor tissues and corresponding cell lines. The obtained results showed that the frequency of ABCG2-positive and CD133-positive cells was predominantly increased in the respective cell lines but that the high levels of nestin expression were reduced in both osteosarcomas and rhabdomyosarcomas under in vitro conditions. These findings suggest the selection advantage of cells expressing ABCG2 or CD133, but the functional tests in NOD/SCID gamma mice did not confirm the tumorigenic potential of cells harboring this phenotype. Subsequent analysis of the expression of common stem cell markers revealed an evident relationship between the expression of the transcription factor Sox2 and the tumorigenicity of the cell lines in immunodeficient mice: the Sox2 levels were highest in the two cell lines that were demonstrated as tumorigenic. Furthermore, Sox2-positive cells were found in the respective primary tumors and all xenograft tumors showed apparent accumulation of these cells. All of these findings support our conclusion that regardless of the expression of ABCG2, CD133 and nestin, only cells displaying increased Sox2 expression are directly involved in tumor initiation and growth; therefore, these cells fit the definition of the cancer stem cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Skoda
- Department of Experimental Biology, School of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Nunukova
- Department of Experimental Biology, School of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Loja
- Department of Experimental Biology, School of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Iva Zambo
- 1st Institute of Pathologic Anatomy, St. Anne's University Hospital and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Neradil
- Department of Experimental Biology, School of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Mudry
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Zitterbart
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Hermanova
- 1st Institute of Pathologic Anatomy, St. Anne's University Hospital and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ales Hampl
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Sterba
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Renata Veselska
- Department of Experimental Biology, School of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Hospital Brno and School of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic. .,International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.
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48
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Rybak AP, Bristow RG, Kapoor A. Prostate cancer stem cells: deciphering the origins and pathways involved in prostate tumorigenesis and aggression. Oncotarget 2015; 6:1900-19. [PMID: 25595909 PMCID: PMC4385825 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cells of the prostate gland are dependent on cell signaling pathways to regulate their growth, maintenance and function. However, perturbations in key signaling pathways, resulting in neoplastic transformation of cells in the prostate epithelium, are likely to generate subtypes of prostate cancer which may subsequently require different treatment regimes. Accumulating evidence supports multiple sources of stem cells in the prostate epithelium with distinct cellular origins for prostate tumorigenesis documented in animal models, while human prostate cancer stem-like cells (PCSCs) are typically enriched by cell culture, surface marker expression and functional activity assays. As future therapies will require a deeper understanding of its cellular origins as well as the pathways that drive PCSC maintenance and tumorigenesis, we review the molecular and functional evidence supporting dysregulation of PI3K/AKT, RAS/MAPK and STAT3 signaling in PCSCs, the development of castration resistance, and as a novel treatment approach for individual men with prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian P Rybak
- McMaster Institute of Urology, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, ON, Canada.,St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Robert G Bristow
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (University Health Network), ON, Canada.,Departments of Radiation Oncology and Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anil Kapoor
- McMaster Institute of Urology, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, ON, Canada.,St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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49
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Prostate Cancer Stem-like Cells Contribute to the Development of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2015; 7:2290-308. [PMID: 26593949 PMCID: PMC4695890 DOI: 10.3390/cancers7040890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been the standard care for patients with advanced prostate cancer (PC) since the 1940s. Although ADT shows clear benefits for many patients, castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) inevitably occurs. In fact, with the two recent FDA-approved second-generation anti-androgens abiraterone and enzalutamide, resistance develops rapidly in patients with CRPC, despite their initial effectiveness. The lack of effective therapeutic solutions towards CRPC largely reflects our limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for CRPC development. While persistent androgen receptor (AR) signaling under castration levels of serum testosterone (<50 ng/mL) contributes to resistance to ADT, it is also clear that CRPC evolves via complex mechanisms. Nevertheless, the physiological impact of individual mechanisms and whether these mechanisms function in a cohesive manner in promoting CRPC are elusive. In spite of these uncertainties, emerging evidence supports a critical role of prostate cancer stem-like cells (PCSLCs) in stimulating CRPC evolution and resistance to abiraterone and enzalutamide. In this review, we will discuss the recent evidence supporting the involvement of PCSLC in CRPC acquisition as well as the pathways and factors contributing to PCSLC expansion in response to ADT.
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50
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Hadjimichael C, Chanoumidou K, Papadopoulou N, Arampatzi P, Papamatheakis J, Kretsovali A. Common stemness regulators of embryonic and cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:1150-1184. [PMID: 26516408 PMCID: PMC4620423 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i9.1150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotency of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells is regulated by a well characterized gene transcription circuitry. The circuitry is assembled by ESC specific transcription factors, signal transducing molecules and epigenetic regulators. Growing understanding of stem-like cells, albeit of more complex phenotypes, present in tumors (cancer stem cells), provides a common conceptual and research framework for basic and applied stem cell biology. In this review, we highlight current results on biomarkers, gene signatures, signaling pathways and epigenetic regulators that are common in embryonic and cancer stem cells. We discuss their role in determining the cell phenotype and finally, their potential use to design next generation biological and pharmaceutical approaches for regenerative medicine and cancer therapies.
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