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Tang J, Chen H, Fan H, Chen T, Pu C, Guo Y. Research progress of BRD4 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Therapeutic application of novel strategies and mechanisms. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 113:117929. [PMID: 39317007 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117929] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) belongs to the bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) protein family, which plays a crucial role in recognizing acetylated lysine residues in chromatin. The abnormal expression of BRD4 contributes to the development of various human malignant tumors, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Recent studies have shown that BRD4 inhibition can effectively prevent the proliferation and growth of HNSCC. However, the specific role and mechanism of BRD4 in HNSCC are not yet fully clarified. This article will briefly summarize the critical role of BRD4 in the pathogenesis of HNSCC and discuss the potential clinical applications of targeting BRD4 in HNSCC therapy. We further inquiry the challenges and opportunities for HNSCC therapies based on BRD4 inhibition, including BRD4 inhibitor combination with conventional chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, as well as new strategies of BRD4-targeting drugs and BRD4 proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs). Moreover, we will also offer outlook on the associated challenges and future directions of targeting BRD4 for the treatment of patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xindu District People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610500, China
| | - Huaqiu Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xichang People's Hospital, Xichang, Sichuan 615000, China
| | - Hengrui Fan
- Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xindu District People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610500, China
| | - Chunlan Pu
- Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Yuanbiao Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, The Second Chengdu Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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2
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Lin Y, Huang Y, Yang B, Zhang Y, Ji N, Li J, Zhou Y, Shen YQ, Chen Q. Precision therapy targeting CAMK2 to overcome resistance to EGFR inhibitors in FAT1-mutated oral squamous cell carcinoma. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024:00029330-990000000-01204. [PMID: 39227322 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent type of cancer with a high mortality rate in its late stages. One of the major challenges in OSCC treatment is the resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Therefore, it is imperative to elucidate the mechanism underlying drug resistance and develop appropriate precision therapy strategies to enhance clinical efficacy. METHODS To evaluate the efficacy of the combination of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CAMK2) inhibitor KN93 and EGFR inhibitors, we performed in vitro and in vivo experiments using two FAT atypical cadherin 1 (FAT1)-deficient (SCC9 and SCC25) and two FAT1 wild-type (SCC47 and HN12) OSCC cell lines. We assessed the effects of EGFR inhibitors (afatinib or cetuximab), KN93, or their combination on the malignant phenotype of OSCC in vivo and in vitro. The alterations in protein expression levels of members of the EGFR signaling pathway and SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2) were analyzed. Changes in the yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) protein were characterized. Moreover, we analyzed mitochondrial dysfunction. Besides, the effects of combination therapy on mitochondrial dynamics were also evaluated. RESULTS OSCC with FAT1 mutations exhibited resistance to EGFR inhibitors treatment. The combination of KN93 and EGFR inhibitors significantly inhibited the proliferation, survival, and migration of FAT1-mutated OSCC cells and suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, combination therapy enhanced the therapeutic sensitivity of FAT1-mutated OSCC cells to EGFR inhibitors by modulating the EGFR pathway and downregulated tumor stemness-related proteins. Furthermore, combination therapy induced reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and disrupted mitochondrial dynamics, ultimately resulting in tumor suppression. CONCLUSION Combination therapy with EGFR inhibitors and KN93 could be a novel precision therapeutic strategy and a potential clinical solution for EGFR-resistant OSCC patients with FAT1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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3
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Gupta I, Badrzadeh F, Tsentalovich Y, Gaykalova DA. Connecting the dots: investigating the link between environmental, genetic, and epigenetic influences in metabolomic alterations in oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:239. [PMID: 39169426 PMCID: PMC11337877 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03141-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for around 90% of all oral cancers and is the eighth most common cancer worldwide. Despite progress in managing OSCC, the overall prognosis remains poor, with a survival rate of around 50-60%, largely due to tumor size and recurrence. The challenges of late-stage diagnosis and limitations in current methods emphasize the urgent need for less invasive techniques to enable early detection and treatment, crucial for improving outcomes in this aggressive form of oral cancer. Research is currently aimed at unraveling tumor-specific metabolite profiles to identify candidate biomarkers as well as discover underlying pathways involved in the onset and progression of cancer that could be used as new targets for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Metabolomics is an advanced technological approach to identify metabolites in different sample types (biological fluids and tissues). Since OSCC promotes metabolic reprogramming influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including tobacco and alcohol consumption, and viral infections, the identification of distinct metabolites through screening may aid in the diagnosis of this condition. Moreover, studies have shown the use of metabolites during the catalysis of epigenetic modification, indicating a link between epigenetics and metabolism. In this review, we will focus on the link between environmental, genetic, and epigenetic influences in metabolomic alterations in OSCC. In addition, we will discuss therapeutic targets of tumor metabolism, which may prevent oral tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Gupta
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fariba Badrzadeh
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yuri Tsentalovich
- International tomography center CB RAS, Institutskaya str. 3a, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Daria A Gaykalova
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Institute for Genome Sciences, 670 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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4
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Wang K, Zhang T, Li X, Zhang X, Li R, Pan B, Deng J. Identification of hub genes and potential therapeutic mechanisms related to HPV positive head and neck squamous carcinoma based on full transcriptomic detection and ceRNA network construction. Gene 2024; 910:148321. [PMID: 38428621 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The objective of this study is to investigate the gene expression profiles and signaling pathways that are specific to HPV-positive HNSCC (HPV+ HNSCC). Moreover, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analysis was utilized to identify the core gene of HPV+ HNSCC and potential targeted therapeutic drugs. Transcriptome sequencing analysis identified 3,253 coding RNAs and 3,903 non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that exhibited preferentially expressed in HPV+ HNSCC. Four key signaling pathways were selected through pathway enrichment analysis. By combining ceRNA network and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network topology analysis, RNA Polymerase II Associated Protein 2 (RPAP2), which also exhibited high expression in HPV+ HNSCC based on the TCGA database, was identified as the hub gene. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) results revealed RPAP2's involvement in various signaling pathways, encompassing basal transcription factors, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, adherens junction, other glycan degradation, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, and oglycan biosynthesis. Five potential small molecule targeted drugs (enzastaurin, brequinar, talinolol, phenylbutazone, and afuresertib) were identified using the cMAP database, with enzastaurin showing the highest affinity for RPAP2. Cellular functional experiments confirmed the inhibitory effect of enzastaurin on cell viability of HPV+ HNSCC and RPAP2 expression levels. Additionally, enzastaurin treatment suppressed the expression levels of the top-ranked long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), circular RNA (circRNA), and microRNA (miRNA) in the ceRNA network. This study based on the ceRNA network provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for HPV+ HNSCC, and provide theoretical basis for the exploration of HPV+ HNSCC biomarkers and the development of targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunpeng Wang
- The School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- The School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xia Li
- The School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xinran Zhang
- The School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China.
| | - Boyu Pan
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China.
| | - Jiayin Deng
- The School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.
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Sosa J, Oyelakin A, Sinha S. The Reign of Follistatin in Tumors and Their Microenvironment: Implications for Drug Resistance. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:130. [PMID: 38392348 PMCID: PMC10887188 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is a potent neutralizer of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is associated with normal cellular programs and various hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. The aberrant expression of FST by solid tumors is a well-documented observation, yet how FST influences tumor progression and therapy response remains unclear. The recent surge in omics data has revealed new insights into the molecular foundation underpinning tumor heterogeneity and its microenvironment, offering novel precision medicine-based opportunities to combat cancer. In this review, we discuss these recent FST-centric studies, thereby offering an updated perspective on the protean role of FST isoforms in shaping the complex cellular ecosystem of tumors and in mediating drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Sosa
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Akinsola Oyelakin
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Satrajit Sinha
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Shin E, Kwon Y, Jung E, Kim YJ, Kim C, Hong S, Kim J. TM4SF19 controls GABP-dependent YAP transcription in head and neck cancer under oxidative stress conditions. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2314346121. [PMID: 38315837 PMCID: PMC10873613 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2314346121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Tobacco and alcohol are risk factors for human papillomavirus-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV- HNSCC), which arises from the mucosal epithelium of the upper aerodigestive tract. Notably, despite the mutagenic potential of smoking, HPV- HNSCC exhibits a low mutational load directly attributed to smoking, which implies an undefined role of smoking in HPV- HNSCC. Elevated YAP (Yes-associated protein) mRNA is prevalent in HPV- HNSCC, irrespective of the YAP gene amplification status, and the mechanism behind this upregulation remains elusive. Here, we report that oxidative stress, induced by major risk factors for HPV- HNSCC such as tobacco and alcohol, promotes YAP transcription via TM4SF19 (transmembrane 4 L six family member 19). TM4SF19 modulates YAP transcription by interacting with the GABP (Guanine and adenine-binding protein) transcription factor complex. Mechanistically, oxidative stress induces TM4SF19 dimerization and topology inversion in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, which in turn protects the GABPβ1 subunit from proteasomal degradation. Conversely, depletion of TM4SF19 impairs the survival, proliferation, and migration of HPV- HNSCC cells, highlighting the potential therapeutic relevance of targeting TM4SF19. Our findings reveal the roles of the key risk factors of HPV- HNSCC in tumor development via oxidative stress, offering implications for upcoming therapeutic approaches in HPV- HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunbie Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
| | - Yongsoo Kwon
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
| | - Eunji Jung
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
| | - Yong Joon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul03722, South Korea
| | - Changgon Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
| | - Semyeong Hong
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
| | - Joon Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Korea
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7
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Gargalionis AN, Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG. The potential of BRD4 inhibition in tumour mechanosignaling. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:4215-4218. [PMID: 37994501 PMCID: PMC10746939 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Antonios N. Gargalionis
- Department of Biopathology, ‘Eginition’ Hospital, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, ‘Sotiria’ Hospital, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical SchoolNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
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8
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Jin S, Tsunematsu T, Horiguchi T, Mouri Y, Shao W, Miyoshi K, Hagita H, Sarubo M, Fujiwara N, Qi G, Ishimaru N, Kudo Y. Involvement of the OTUB1-YAP1 axis in driving malignant behaviors of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22156-22169. [PMID: 37986681 PMCID: PMC10757095 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comprehending the molecular mechanisms underlying head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is vital for the development of effective treatment strategies. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), which regulate ubiquitin-dependent pathways, are potential targets for cancer therapy because of their structural advantages. Here we aimed to identify a potential target for HNSCC treatment among DUBs. METHODS A screening process was conducted using RNA sequencing data and clinical information from HNSCC patients in the TCGA database. A panel of 88 DUBs was analyzed to identify those associated with poor prognosis. Subsequently, HNSCC cells were modified to overexpress specific DUBs, and their effects on cell proliferation and invasion were evaluated. In vivo experiments were performed to validate the findings. RESULTS In HNSCC patients, USP10, USP14, OTUB1, and STAMBP among the screened DUBs were associated with a poor prognosis. Among them, OTUB1 showed the most aggressive characteristics in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Additionally, OTUB1 regulated the stability and nuclear localization of YAP1, a substrate involved in cell proliferation and invasion. Notably, OTUB1 expression exhibited a positive correlation with the HNSCC-YAP score in HNSCC cells. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the critical role of OTUB1 in HNSCC progression via modulating YAP1. Targeting the OTUB1-YAP1 axis holds promise as a potential therapeutic strategy for HNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengjian Jin
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Takaaki Tsunematsu
- Department of Oral Molecular PathologyTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Taigo Horiguchi
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Yasuhiro Mouri
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Wenhua Shao
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Keiko Miyoshi
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Hiroko Hagita
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Motoharu Sarubo
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Natsumi Fujiwara
- Department of Oral Healthcare ManagementTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Guangying Qi
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental RegulationGuilin Medical UniversityGuilinChina
| | - Naozumi Ishimaru
- Department of Oral Molecular PathologyTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
| | - Yasusei Kudo
- Department of Oral BioscienceTokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesTokushimaJapan
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Gobbi G, Grieco A, Torricelli F, Sauta E, Santandrea G, Zanetti E, Fantini V, Reggiani F, Strocchi S, Paci M, Vohra M, Saladi SV, Ambrosetti DC, Ciarrocchi A, Sancisi V. The long non-coding RNA TAZ-AS202 promotes lung cancer progression via regulation of the E2F1 transcription factor and activation of Ephrin signaling. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:752. [PMID: 37980331 PMCID: PMC10657417 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06277-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts without coding potential that are pervasively expressed from the genome and have been increasingly reported to play crucial roles in all aspects of cell biology. They have been also heavily implicated in cancer development and progression, with both oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions. In this work, we identified and characterized a novel lncRNA, TAZ-AS202, expressed from the TAZ genomic locus and exerting pro-oncogenic functions in non-small cell lung cancer. TAZ-AS202 expression is under the control of YAP/TAZ-containing transcriptional complexes. We demonstrated that TAZ-AS202 is overexpressed in lung cancer tissue, compared with surrounding lung epithelium. In lung cancer cell lines TAZ-AS202 promotes cell migration and cell invasion. TAZ-AS202 regulates the expression of a set of genes belonging to cancer-associated pathways, including WNT and EPH-Ephrin signaling. The molecular mechanism underlying TAZ-AS202 function does not involve change of TAZ expression or activity, but increases the protein level of the transcription factor E2F1, which in turn regulates the expression of a large set of target genes, including the EPHB2 receptor. Notably, the silencing of both E2F1 and EPHB2 recapitulates TAZ-AS202 silencing cellular phenotype, indicating that they are essential mediators of its activity. Overall, this work unveiled a new regulatory mechanism that, by increasing E2F1 protein, modifies the non-small cell lung cancer cells transcriptional program, leading to enhanced aggressiveness features. The TAZ-AS202/E2F1/EPHB2 axis may be the target for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gobbi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Grieco
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Giacomo Santandrea
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Zanetti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Fantini
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesca Reggiani
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Strocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Paci
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manik Vohra
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Srinivas Vinod Saladi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | | | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Talukdar PD, Chatterji U. Transcriptional co-activators: emerging roles in signaling pathways and potential therapeutic targets for diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:427. [PMID: 37953273 PMCID: PMC10641101 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01651-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Specific cell states in metazoans are established by the symphony of gene expression programs that necessitate intricate synergic interactions between transcription factors and the co-activators. Deregulation of these regulatory molecules is associated with cell state transitions, which in turn is accountable for diverse maladies, including developmental disorders, metabolic disorders, and most significantly, cancer. A decade back most transcription factors, the key enablers of disease development, were historically viewed as 'undruggable'; however, in the intervening years, a wealth of literature validated that they can be targeted indirectly through transcriptional co-activators, their confederates in various physiological and molecular processes. These co-activators, along with transcription factors, have the ability to initiate and modulate transcription of diverse genes necessary for normal physiological functions, whereby, deregulation of such interactions may foster tissue-specific disease phenotype. Hence, it is essential to analyze how these co-activators modulate specific multilateral processes in coordination with other factors. The proposed review attempts to elaborate an in-depth account of the transcription co-activators, their involvement in transcription regulation, and context-specific contributions to pathophysiological conditions. This review also addresses an issue that has not been dealt with in a comprehensive manner and hopes to direct attention towards future research that will encompass patient-friendly therapeutic strategies, where drugs targeting co-activators will have enhanced benefits and reduced side effects. Additional insights into currently available therapeutic interventions and the associated constraints will eventually reveal multitudes of advanced therapeutic targets aiming for disease amelioration and good patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Dey Talukdar
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata, 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Urmi Chatterji
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata, 700019, West Bengal, India.
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11
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Wang T, Wang D, Sun Y, Zhuang T, Li X, Yang H, Zang Y, Liu Z, Yang P, Zhang C, Cui J, Fu M, Zhang S, Su P, Li Z, Zhu J, Ding Y. Regulation of the Hippo/YAP axis by CXCR7 in the tumorigenesis of gastric cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:297. [PMID: 37950281 PMCID: PMC10636825 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02870-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway is crucial in organ size control and tumorigenesis. Dysregulation of the Hippo/YAP axis is commonly observed in gastric cancer, while effective therapeutic targets for the Hippo/YAP axis are lacking. Identification of reliable drug targets and the underlying mechanisms that could inhibit the activity of the Hippo/YAP axis and gastric cancer progression is urgently needed. METHODS We used several gastric cancer cell lines and xenograft models and performed immunoblotting, qPCR, and in vivo studies to investigate the function of CXCR7 in gastric cancer progression. RESULTS In our current study, we demonstrate that the membrane receptor CXCR7 (C-X-C chemokine receptor 7) is an important modulator of the Hippo/YAP axis. The activation of CXCR7 could stimulate gastric cancer cell progression through the Hippo/YAP axis in vitro and in vivo, while pharmaceutical inhibition of CXCR7 via ACT-1004-1239 could block tumorigenesis in gastric cancer. Molecular studies revealed that the activation of CXCR7 could dephosphorylate YAP and facilitate YAP nuclear accumulation and transcriptional activation in gastric cancer. CXCR7 functions via G-protein Gαq/11 and Rho GTPase to activate YAP activity. Interestingly, ChIP assays showed that YAP could bind to the promoter region of CXCR7 and facilitate its gene transcription, which indicates that CXCR7 is both the upstream signalling and downstream target of the Hippo/YAP axis in gastric cancer. CONCLUSION In general, we identified a novel positive feedback loop between CXCR7 and the Hippo/YAP axis, and blockade of CXCR7 could be a plausible strategy for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianshi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Dehai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Ting Zhuang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong Province, P. R. China
| | - Xin Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Huijie Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Yifeng Zang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Ziping Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Penghe Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Chenmiao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Jiayao Cui
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Mingxi Fu
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Shuqing Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Peng Su
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China.
| | - Zhongbo Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China.
| | - Jian Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yinlu Ding
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China.
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12
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Guo L, Mohanty A, Singhal S, Srivastava S, Nam A, Warden C, Ramisetty S, Yuan YC, Cho H, Wu X, Li A, Vohra M, Saladi SV, Wheeler D, Arvanitis L, Massarelli E, Kulkarni P, Zeng Y, Salgia R. Targeting ITGB4/SOX2-driven lung cancer stem cells using proteasome inhibitors. iScience 2023; 26:107302. [PMID: 37554452 PMCID: PMC10405066 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the role of integrin β4 (ITGB4) and stemness-associated factor SOX2 in platinum resistance in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). The expression of SOX2 and ITGB4 is found to be high in all LUSC subtypes, but the impact of ITGB4 expression on overall patient survival varies by subtype. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) isolated from LUSC patients were found to be resistant to cisplatin, but knocking down ITGB4 or SOX2 sensitized them to cisplatin. Carfilzomib (CFZ) synergized with cisplatin and suppressed CSC growth by inhibiting ITGB4 and SOX2 expression. Additionally, CFZ was found to inhibit SOX2 expression epigenetically by inhibiting histone acetylation at the SOX2 promoter site. CFZ also suppressed the growth of SOX2-dependent small cell lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The study highlights the unique function of CFZ as a transcriptional suppressor of SOX2, independent of its proteasome inhibitory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Respirology Medicine Centre of Fujian Province, Quanzhou, China
| | - Atish Mohanty
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Sharad Singhal
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Saumya Srivastava
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Arin Nam
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Charles Warden
- Integrative Genomics Core, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Sravani Ramisetty
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yate-Ching Yuan
- Divison of Translational Bioinformatics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Hyejin Cho
- Integrative Genomics Core, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Xiwei Wu
- Integrative Genomics Core, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
| | - Aimin Li
- Department of Pathology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Manik Vohra
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Srinivas Vinod Saladi
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Deric Wheeler
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Leonidas Arvanitis
- Department of Pathology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Erminia Massarelli
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Prakash Kulkarni
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yiming Zeng
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Respirology Medicine Centre of Fujian Province, Quanzhou, China
| | - Ravi Salgia
- Department of Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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13
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Ricco N, Kron SJ. Statins in Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3948. [PMID: 37568764 PMCID: PMC10417177 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Statins, a class of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors best known for their cholesterol-reducing and cardiovascular protective activity, have also demonstrated promise in cancer prevention and treatment. This review focuses on their potential applications in head and neck cancer (HNC), a common malignancy for which established treatment often fails despite incurring debilitating adverse effects. Preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that statins may enhance HNC sensitivity to radiation and other conventional therapies while protecting normal tissue, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly defined, likely involving both cholesterol-dependent and -independent effects on diverse cancer-related pathways. This review brings together recent discoveries concerning the anticancer activity of statins relevant to HNC, highlighting their anti-inflammatory activity and impacts on DNA-damage response. We also explore molecular targets and mechanisms and discuss the potential to integrate statins into conventional HNC treatment regimens to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Ricco
- Basic Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Stephen J. Kron
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology and Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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14
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Alam J, Huda MN, Tackett AJ, Miah S. Oncogenic signaling-mediated regulation of chromatin during tumorigenesis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:409-425. [PMID: 37147457 PMCID: PMC10348982 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10104-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Signaling pathways play critical roles in executing and controlling important biological processes within cells. Cells/organisms trigger appropriate signal transduction pathways in order to turn on or off intracellular gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. An orchestrated regulation of different signaling pathways across different organs and tissues is the basis of many important biological functions. Presumably, any malfunctions or dysregulation of these signaling pathways contribute to the pathogenesis of disease, particularly cancer. In this review, we discuss how the dysregulation of signaling pathways (TGF-β signaling, Hippo signaling, Wnt signaling, Notch signaling, and PI3K-AKT signaling) modulates chromatin modifications to regulate the epigenome, thereby contributing to tumorigenesis and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahangir Alam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Md Nazmul Huda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Alan J Tackett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sayem Miah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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15
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Chen N, Vohra M, Saladi SV. Protocol for Bulk-ATAC sequencing in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102233. [PMID: 37071527 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102233] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (ATAC-seq) offers a simplified approach to detect chromatin changes in cancer cells after genetic intervention and drug treatment. Here, we present an optimized ATAC-seq protocol to elucidate chromatin accessibility changes at the epigenetic level in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. We describe steps for cell lysate preparation, transposition, and tagmentation, followed by library amplification and purification. We then detail next-generation sequencing and data analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Buenrostro et al.,1 Chen et al.,2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Head and Neck Lab, 20 Staniford Street 2W, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Manik Vohra
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Head and Neck Lab, 20 Staniford Street 2W, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Srinivas Vinod Saladi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Head and Neck Lab, 20 Staniford Street 2W, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
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16
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Molecular Biomarkers of Malignant Transformation in Head and Neck Dysplasia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225581. [PMID: 36428690 PMCID: PMC9688631 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and its treatments are associated with substantial morbidity, often resulting in cosmetic deformity and loss of physiologic functions including speech and swallowing. Despite advancements in treatment, 5-year survival rates for mucosal malignancies remain below 70%. Effective prevention of HNSCC demands an understanding of the molecular pathways of carcinogenesis. Specifically, defining features of pre-cancerous dysplastic lesions that indicate a better or worse prognosis is necessary to help identify patients who are likely to develop a carcinoma and allow a more aggressive approach to management. There remains a need for identification of biomarkers that can provide both early prognostic and predictive value in clinical decision-making by serving as both therapeutic targets as well as predictors of therapy response. Here, we comprehensively review the most frequently altered molecular biomarkers of malignant transformation in head and neck dysplasia. These markers are involved in a wide range of cellular processes in head and neck carcinogenesis, including extracellular matrix degradation, cell motility and invasion, cell-cell adhesion, solute transport, immortalization, metabolism, the cell cycle and apoptosis, transcription, and cell signaling.
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17
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Hamad M, Ali A, Muhammad JS. BRD4 regulates the induction and maintenance of cancer stem cells in squamous cell carcinoma. Stem Cell Investig 2022; 9:6. [PMID: 36393920 PMCID: PMC9640355 DOI: 10.21037/sci-2022-033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mawieh Hamad
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates;,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amjad Ali
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jibran Sualeh Muhammad
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates;,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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18
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Ando T, Okamoto K, Shintani T, Yanamoto S, Miyauchi M, Gutkind JS, Kajiya M. Integrating Genetic Alterations and the Hippo Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma for Future Precision Medicine. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12101544. [PMID: 36294681 PMCID: PMC9604790 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic alterations and dysregulation of signaling pathways are indispensable for the initiation and progression of cancer. Understanding the genetic, molecular, and signaling diversities in cancer patients has driven a dynamic change in cancer therapy. Patients can select a suitable molecularly targeted therapy or immune checkpoint inhibitor based on the driver gene alterations determined by sequencing of cancer tissue. This “precision medicine” approach requires detailed elucidation of the mechanisms connecting genetic alterations of driver genes and aberrant downstream signaling pathways. The regulatory mechanisms of the Hippo pathway and Yes-associated protein/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ binding motif (YAP/TAZ) that have central roles in cancer cell proliferation are not fully understood, reflecting their recent discovery. Nevertheless, emerging evidence has shown that various genetic alterations dysregulate the Hippo pathway and hyperactivate YAP/TAZ in cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Here, we summarize the latest evidence linking genetic alterations and the Hippo pathway in HNSCC, with the aim of contributing to the continued development of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshinori Ando
- Center of Oral Clinical Examination, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-82-257-5727
| | - Kento Okamoto
- Department of Oral Oncology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Shintani
- Center of Oral Clinical Examination, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Souichi Yanamoto
- Department of Oral Oncology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Miyauchi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathobiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - J. Silvio Gutkind
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Mikihito Kajiya
- Center of Oral Clinical Examination, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
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19
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The diverse functions of FAT1 in cancer progression: good, bad, or ugly? J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:248. [PMID: 35965328 PMCID: PMC9377080 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02461-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
FAT atypical cadherin 1 (FAT1) is among the most frequently mutated genes in many types of cancer. Its highest mutation rate is found in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), in which FAT1 is the second most frequently mutated gene. Thus, FAT1 has great potential to serve as a target or prognostic biomarker in cancer treatment. FAT1 encodes a member of the cadherin-like protein family. Under normal physiological conditions, FAT1 serves as a molecular "brake" on mitochondrial respiration and acts as a receptor for a signaling pathway regulating cell-cell contact interaction and planar cell polarity. In many cancers, loss of FAT1 function promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the formation of cancer initiation/stem-like cells. However, in some types of cancer, overexpression of FAT1 leads to EMT. The roles of FAT1 in cancer progression, which seems to be cancer-type specific, have not been clarified. To further study the function of FAT1 in cancers, this review summarizes recent relevant literature regarding this protein. In addition to phenotypic alterations due to FAT1 mutations, several signaling pathways and tumor immune systems known or proposed to be regulated by this protein are presented. The potential impact of detecting or targeting FAT1 mutations on cancer treatment is also prospectively discussed.
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