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Mo HY, Wang RB, Ma MY, Zhang Y, Li XY, Wen WR, Han Y, Tian T. MTHFD2-mediated redox homeostasis promotes gastric cancer progression under hypoxic conditions. Redox Rep 2024; 29:2345455. [PMID: 38723197 PMCID: PMC11086033 DOI: 10.1080/13510002.2024.2345455] [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] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to adapt to high oxidative stress, but little is known about how metabolic remodeling enables gastric cancer cells to survive stress associated with aberrant reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Here, we aimed to identify the key metabolic enzymes that protect gastric cancer (GC) cells from oxidative stress. METHODS ROS level was detected by DCFH-DA probes. Multiple cell biological studies were performed to identify the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, cell-based xenograft and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model were performed to evaluate the role of MTHFD2 in vivo. RESULTS We found that overexpression of MTHFD2, but not MTHFD1, is associated with reduced overall and disease-free survival in gastric cancer. In addition, MTHFD2 knockdown reduces the cellular NADPH/NADP+ ratio, colony formation and mitochondrial function, increases cellular ROS and cleaved PARP levels and induces in cell death under hypoxia, a hallmark of solid cancers and a common inducer of oxidative stress. Moreover, genetic or pharmacological inhibition of MTHFD2 reduces tumor burden in both tumor cell lines and patient-derived xenograft-based models. DISCUSSION our study highlights the crucial role of MTHFD2 in redox regulation and tumor progression, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of targeting MTHFD2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yu Mo
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Shunde Hospital of Jinan University, Foshan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruo-Bing Wang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng-Yao Ma
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Yu Li
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wang-Rong Wen
- Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Shunde Hospital of Jinan University, Foshan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian Tian
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Yang M, Wang D, Wang X, Mei J, Gong Q. Role of Folate in Liver Diseases. Nutrients 2024; 16:1872. [PMID: 38931227 PMCID: PMC11206401 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121872] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin involved in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines and is one of the essential vitamins for human growth and reproduction. Folate deficiency due to low dietary intake, poor absorption of folate, and alterations in folate metabolism due to genetic defects or drug interactions significantly increases the risk of diseases such as neural tube defects, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and cognitive dysfunction. Recent studies have shown that folate deficiency can cause hyperhomocysteinemia, which increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, and that high homocysteine levels are an independent risk factor for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In addition, folate deficiency results in increased secretion of pro-inflammatory factors and impaired lipid metabolism in the liver, leading to lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and fibrosis. There is substantial evidence that folate deficiency contributes to the development and progression of a variety of liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, hepatic fibrosis, and liver cancer. Here we review key studies on the role of folate in the pathophysiology of liver diseases, summarize the current status of studies on folate in the treatment of liver diseases, and speculate that folate may be a potential therapeutic target for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minlan Yang
- School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
| | | | | | | | - Quan Gong
- School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
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Liu Y, Zhang X, Pang Z, Wang Y, Zheng H, Wang G, Wang K, Du J. Prediction of prognosis and immunotherapy efficacy based on metabolic landscape in lung adenocarcinoma by bulk, single-cell RNA sequencing and Mendelian randomization analyses. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8772-8809. [PMID: 38771130 PMCID: PMC11164486 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205838] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been a remarkable clinical advancement in cancer treatment, but only a few patients benefit from it. Metabolic reprogramming is tightly associated with immunotherapy efficacy and clinical outcomes. However, comprehensively analyzing their relationship is still lacking in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Herein, we evaluated 84 metabolic pathways in TCGA-LUAD by ssGSEA. A matrix of metabolic pathway pairs was generated and a metabolic pathway-pair score (MPPS) model was established by univariable, LASSO, multivariable Cox regression analyses. The differences of metabolic reprogramming, tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor mutation burden and drug sensitivity in different MPPS groups were further explored. WGCNA and 117 machine learning algorithms were performed to identify MPPS-related genes. Single-cell RNA sequencing and in vitro experiments were used to explore the role of C1QTNF6 on TME. The results showed MPPS model accurately predicted prognosis and immunotherapy efficacy of LUAD patients regardless of sequencing platforms. High-MPPS group had worse prognosis, immunotherapy efficacy and lower immune cells infiltration, immune-related genes expression and cancer-immunity cycle scores than low-MPPS group. Seven MPPS-related genes were identified, of which C1QTNF6 was mainly expressed in fibroblasts. High C1QTNF6 expression in fibroblasts was associated with more infiltration of M2 macrophage, Treg cells and less infiltration of NK cells, memory CD8+ T cells. In vitro experiments validated silencing C1QTNF6 in fibroblasts could inhibit M2 macrophage polarization and migration. The study depicted the metabolic landscape of LUAD and constructed a MPPS model to accurately predict prognosis and immunotherapy efficacy. C1QTNF6 was a promising target to regulate M2 macrophage polarization and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangwei Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaofei Pang
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Haotian Zheng
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Guanghui Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Jiajun Du
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
- Institute of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, Shandong, China
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Siddique F, Anwaar A, Bashir M, Nadeem S, Rawat R, Eyupoglu V, Afzal S, Bibi M, Bin Jardan YA, Bourhia M. Revisiting methotrexate and phototrexate Zinc15 library-based derivatives using deep learning in-silico drug design approach. Front Chem 2024; 12:1380266. [PMID: 38576849 PMCID: PMC10991842 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1380266] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cancer is the second most prevalent cause of mortality in the world, despite the availability of several medications for cancer treatment. Therefore, the cancer research community emphasized on computational techniques to speed up the discovery of novel anticancer drugs. Methods: In the current study, QSAR-based virtual screening was performed on the Zinc15 compound library (271 derivatives of methotrexate (MTX) and phototrexate (PTX)) to predict their inhibitory activity against dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), a potential anticancer drug target. The deep learning-based ADMET parameters were employed to generate a 2D QSAR model using the multiple linear regression (MPL) methods with Leave-one-out cross-validated (LOO-CV) Q2 and correlation coefficient R2 values as high as 0.77 and 0.81, respectively. Results: From the QSAR model and virtual screening analysis, the top hits (09, 27, 41, 68, 74, 85, 99, 180) exhibited pIC50 ranging from 5.85 to 7.20 with a minimum binding score of -11.6 to -11.0 kcal/mol and were subjected to further investigation. The ADMET attributes using the message-passing neural network (MPNN) model demonstrated the potential of selected hits as an oral medication based on lipophilic profile Log P (0.19-2.69) and bioavailability (76.30% to 78.46%). The clinical toxicity score was 31.24% to 35.30%, with the least toxicity score (8.30%) observed with compound 180. The DFT calculations were carried out to determine the stability, physicochemical parameters and chemical reactivity of selected compounds. The docking results were further validated by 100 ns molecular dynamic simulation analysis. Conclusion: The promising lead compounds found endorsed compared to standard reference drugs MTX and PTX that are best for anticancer activity and can lead to novel therapies after experimental validations. Furthermore, it is suggested to unveil the inhibitory potential of identified hits via in-vitro and in-vivo approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Siddique
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Ahmar Anwaar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Bashir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
- Southern Punjab Institute of Health Sciences, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Sumaira Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacy, The Women University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Ravi Rawat
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Dehradun, India
| | - Volkan Eyupoglu
- Department of Chemistry, Cankırı Karatekin University, Cankırı, Türkiye
| | - Samina Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Mehvish Bibi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Yousef A. Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Natural Resources Valorization, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
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Li X, Gao Z, Diao H, Guo C, Yu Y, Liu S, Feng Z, Peng Z. Lung adenocarcinoma: selection of surgical approaches in solid adenocarcinoma from the viewpoint of clinicopathologic features and tumor microenvironmental heterogeneity. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1326626. [PMID: 38505588 PMCID: PMC10949368 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1326626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Solid adenocarcinoma represents a notably aggressive subtype of lung adenocarcinoma. Amidst the prevailing inclination towards conservative surgical interventions for diminutive lung cancer lesions, the critical evaluation of this subtype's malignancy and heterogeneity stands as imperative for the formulation of surgical approaches and the prognostication of long-term patient survival. Methods A retrospective dataset, encompassing 2406 instances of non-solid adenocarcinoma (comprising lepidic, acinar, and papillary adenocarcinoma) and 326 instances of solid adenocarcinoma, was analyzed to ascertain the risk factors concomitant with diverse histological variants of lung adenocarcinoma. Concurrently, RNA-sequencing data delineating explicit pathological subtypes were extracted from 261 cases in the TCGA database and 188 cases in the OncoSG database. This data served to illuminate the heterogeneity across lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) specimens characterized by differential histological features. Results Solid adenocarcinoma is associated with an elevated incidence of pleural invasion, microscopic vessel invasion, and lymph node metastasis, relative to other subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, the tumor microenvironment (TME) in solid pattern adenocarcinoma displayed suboptimal oxygenation and acidic conditions, concomitant with augmented tumor cell proliferation and invasion capacities. Energy and metabolic activities were significantly upregulated in tumor cells of the solid pattern subtype. This subtype manifested robust immune tolerance and capabilities for immune evasion. Conclusion This present investigation identifies multiple potential metrics for evaluating the invasive propensity, metastatic likelihood, and immune resistance of solid pattern adenocarcinoma. These insights may prove instrumental in devising surgical interventions that are tailored to patients diagnosed with disparate histological subtypes of LUAD, thereby offering valuable directional guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhen Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Haixiao Diao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chenran Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhen Feng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhongmin Peng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Zhang X, Wang Z. Targeting SHMTs and MTHFDs in cancer: attractive opportunity for anti-tumor strategy. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1335785. [PMID: 38444944 PMCID: PMC10912643 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1335785] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon metabolism is a universal metabolic process that mediates the transfer of one-carbon units for purine and thymidine synthesis. One-carbon metabolism has been found to be dysregulated in various cancer types due to its role in production of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, epigenetic program, and redox homeostasis. One-carbon metabolism is composed a network of one-carbon metabolic enzymes. Disturbing the expression and enzymatic activity of these one-carbon metabolic enzymes could lead to fluctuations of metabolites in the tumor microenvironment. Serine hydroxymethyltransferases (SHMTs) and methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenases (MTHFDs) are gradually recognized as important one-carbon metabolic enzymes for regulating tumor initiation and development, representing potential therapeutic targets for anti-tumor strategies. In the review, we primarily focused on the role of SHMTs and MTHFDs in cancer. Several inhibitors targeting MTHFDs and SHMTs have exert its potential to decrease tumor burden and inhibit tumor proliferation, highlighting the potential of targeting one-carbon metabolic enzymes for anti-cancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- The VIP Department, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhenhua Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Morgan AE, Salcedo-Sora JE, Mc Auley MT. A new mathematical model of folate homeostasis in E. coli highlights the potential importance of the folinic acid futile cycle in cell growth. Biosystems 2024; 235:105088. [PMID: 38000545 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2023.105088] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Folate (vitamin B9) plays a central role in one-carbon metabolism in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This pathway mediates the transfer of one-carbon units, playing a crucial role in nucleotide synthesis, methylation, and amino acid homeostasis. The folinic acid futile cycle adds a layer of intrigue to this pathway, due to its associations with metabolism, cell growth, and dormancy. It also introduces additional complexity to folate metabolism. A logical way to deal with such complexity is to examine it by using mathematical modelling. This work describes the construction and analysis of a model of folate metabolism, which includes the folinic acid futile cycle. This model was tested under three in silico growth conditions. Model simulations revealed: 1) the folate cycle behaved as a stable biochemical system in three growth states (slow, standard, and rapid); 2) the initial concentration of serine had the greatest impact on metabolite concentrations; 3) 5-formyltetrahydrofolate cyclo-ligase (5-FCL) activity had a significant impact on the levels of the 7 products that carry the one-carbon donated from folates, and the redox couple NADP/NADPH; this was particularly evident in the rapid growth state; 4) 5-FCL may be vital to the survival of the cells by maintaining low levels of homocysteine, as high levels can induce toxicity; and 5) the antifolate therapeutic trimethoprim had a greater impact on folate metabolism with higher nutrient availability. These results highlight the important role of 5-FCL in intracellular folate homeostasis and mass generation under different metabolic scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Morgan
- School of Health & Sport Sciences, Hope Park, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, L16 9JD, UK.
| | - J Enrique Salcedo-Sora
- Liverpool Shared Research Facilities, GeneMill, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Mark T Mc Auley
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4NT, UK
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Shi X, Peng X, Chen Y, Shi Z, Yue C, Zuo L, Zhang L, Gao S. Overexpression of MTHFD2 represents an inflamed tumor microenvironment and precisely predicts the molecular subtype and immunotherapy response of bladder cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1326509. [PMID: 38130721 PMCID: PMC10733511 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1326509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2), whose aberrant expression is common in cancers, has recently been identified as a potential regulator of immune response. However, its immune-related role in bladder cancer (BLCA) and its association with immunotherapy efficacy remain unclear. Methods RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was applied to analyze the immunological roles and prognostic value of MTHFD2 in pan-cancers. The association of MTHFD2 with several immunological features of tumor microenvironment (TME), including cancer-immunity cycle, immune cells infiltration, immune checkpoints expression, and T cell inflamed score was analyzed in TCGA-BLCA cohort. The predictors of cancer treatments effectiveness, including the expression and mutation of certain genes, molecular subtypes, and several signatures were evaluated as well. These results were validated by another independent cohort (GSE48075). Finally, the predictive value of MTHFD2 for TME and immunotherapy efficacy were validated using immunohistochemistry assay and RNA sequencing data from IMvigor210 cohort, respectively. Results MTHFD2 was found to be positively associated with several immunological features of an inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME) in various cancers and could predict BLCA patients' prognosis. In BLCA, high expression of MTHFD2 was observed to be positively related with the cancer-immunity cycle, the infiltration of several immune cells, and the expression of immunoregulators and T-cell inflamed scores, indicating a positive correlation with the inflamed TME. Moreover, patients with high MTHFD2 expression were more likely to be basal-like subtypes and respond to BLCA treatments, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and target therapy. The clinical data of the IMvigor210 cohort confirmed the higher response rates and better survival benefits of immunotherapy in high-MTHFD2-expression patients. Conclusion Collectively, high MTHFD2 predicts an inflamed TME, a basal-like subtype, and a better response to various therapeutic strategies, especially the ICB therapy, in bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokai Shi
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiangrong Peng
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yin Chen
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zebin Shi
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuang Yue
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zuo
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lifeng Zhang
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shenglin Gao
- Department of Urology, ChangZhou No.2 People’s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Urology, ChangZhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, ChangZhou, Jiangsu, China
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Petrova B, Maynard AG, Wang P, Kanarek N. Regulatory mechanisms of one-carbon metabolism enzymes. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105457. [PMID: 37949226 PMCID: PMC10758965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One-carbon metabolism is a central metabolic pathway critical for the biosynthesis of several amino acids, methyl group donors, and nucleotides. The pathway mostly relies on the transfer of a carbon unit from the amino acid serine, through the cofactor folate (in its several forms), and to the ultimate carbon acceptors that include nucleotides and methyl groups used for methylation of proteins, RNA, and DNA. Nucleotides are required for DNA replication, DNA repair, gene expression, and protein translation, through ribosomal RNA. Therefore, the one-carbon metabolism pathway is essential for cell growth and function in all cells, but is specifically important for rapidly proliferating cells. The regulation of one-carbon metabolism is a critical aspect of the normal and pathological function of the pathway, such as in cancer, where hijacking these regulatory mechanisms feeds an increased need for nucleotides. One-carbon metabolism is regulated at several levels: via gene expression, posttranslational modification, subcellular compartmentalization, allosteric inhibition, and feedback regulation. In this review, we aim to inform the readers of relevant one-carbon metabolism regulation mechanisms and to bring forward the need to further study this aspect of one-carbon metabolism. The review aims to integrate two major aspects of cancer metabolism-signaling downstream of nutrient sensing and one-carbon metabolism, because while each of these is critical for the proliferation of cancerous cells, their integration is critical for comprehensive understating of cellular metabolism in transformed cells and can lead to clinically relevant insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boryana Petrova
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adam G Maynard
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Naama Kanarek
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
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10
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Chen Y, Xu J, Liu X, Guo L, Yi P, Cheng C. Potential therapies targeting nuclear metabolic regulation in cancer. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e421. [PMID: 38034101 PMCID: PMC10685089 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between genetic alterations and metabolic dysregulation is increasingly recognized as a pivotal axis in cancer pathogenesis. Both elements are mutually reinforcing, thereby expediting the ontogeny and progression of malignant neoplasms. Intriguingly, recent findings have highlighted the translocation of metabolites and metabolic enzymes from the cytoplasm into the nuclear compartment, where they appear to be intimately associated with tumor cell proliferation. Despite these advancements, significant gaps persist in our understanding of their specific roles within the nuclear milieu, their modulatory effects on gene transcription and cellular proliferation, and the intricacies of their coordination with the genomic landscape. In this comprehensive review, we endeavor to elucidate the regulatory landscape of metabolic signaling within the nuclear domain, namely nuclear metabolic signaling involving metabolites and metabolic enzymes. We explore the roles and molecular mechanisms through which metabolic flux and enzymatic activity impact critical nuclear processes, including epigenetic modulation, DNA damage repair, and gene expression regulation. In conclusion, we underscore the paramount significance of nuclear metabolic signaling in cancer biology and enumerate potential therapeutic targets, associated pharmacological interventions, and implications for clinical applications. Importantly, these emergent findings not only augment our conceptual understanding of tumoral metabolism but also herald the potential for innovative therapeutic paradigms targeting the metabolism-genome transcriptional axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Jie Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xiaoyi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Linlin Guo
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyThe Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Chunming Cheng
- Department of Radiation OncologyJames Comprehensive Cancer Center and College of Medicine at The Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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11
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Qin XY, Ha SY, Chen L, Zhang T, Li MQ. Recent Advances in Folates and Autoantibodies against Folate Receptors in Early Pregnancy and Miscarriage. Nutrients 2023; 15:4882. [PMID: 38068740 PMCID: PMC10708193 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Though firstly identified in cerebral folate deficiency, autoantibodies against folate receptors (FRAbs) have been implicated in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage; however, the underlying mechanism needs to be further elaborated. FRAbs can be produced via sensitization mediated by folate-binding protein as well as gene mutation, aberrant modulation, or degradation of folate receptors (FRs). FRAbs may interfere with folate internalization and metabolism through blocking or binding with FRs. Interestingly, different types of FRs are expressed on trophoblast cells, decidual epithelium or stroma, and macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface, implying FRAbs may be involved in the critical events necessary for a successful pregnancy. Thus, we propose that FRAbs may disturb pregnancy establishment and maintenance by modulating trophoblastic biofunctions, placental development, decidualization, and decidua homeostasis as well as the functions of FOLR2+ macrophages. In light of these findings, FRAbs may be a critical factor in pathological pregnancy, and deserve careful consideration in therapies involving folic acid supplementation for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yun Qin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Lu Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
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12
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Tang H, Hou N. Whether MTHFD2 plays a new role: from anticancer targets to anti-inflammatory disease. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1257107. [PMID: 37936908 PMCID: PMC10625907 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1257107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Stem Cell Clinical Institute, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Ning Hou
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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13
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Zhang Y, Huang H, Liu P, Xie Y. NFYB increases chemosensitivity in glioblastoma by promoting HDAC5-mediated transcriptional inhibition of SHMT2. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2023; 82:911-920. [PMID: 37742129 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlad073] [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] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent for glioblastoma (GBM), but acquired drug resistance prevents its therapeutic efficacy. We investigated potential mechanisms underlying TMZ resistance and glycolysis in GBM cells through regulation by nuclear transcription factor Y subunit β (NFYB) of the oncogene serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2). GBM U251 cells were transfected with NFYB-, SHMT2-, and the potential NFYB target histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5)-related vectors. Glucose uptake and lactate production were measured with detection kits. CCK-8/colony formation, scratch, Transwell, and flow cytometry assays were performed to detect cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis, respectively. The binding of NFYB to the HDAC5 promoter and the regulation of NFYB on HDAC5 promoter activity were detected with chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays, respectively. NFYB and HDAC5 were poorly expressed and SHMT2 was expressed at high levels in GBM U251 cells. NFYB overexpression or SHMT2 knockdown decreased glucose uptake, lactate production, proliferation, migration, and invasion and increased apoptosis and TMZ sensitivity of the cells. NFYB activated HDAC5 to inhibit SHMT2 expression. SHMT2 overexpression nullified the inhibitory effects of NFYB overexpression on glycolysis and TMZ resistance. Thus, NFYB may reduce tumorigenicity and TMZ resistance of GBM through effects on the HDAC5/SHMT2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingfan Zhang
- Teaching and Research Section of Clinical Nursing, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Haoxuan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Peikun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Yuanyang Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
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14
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Li L, Zhang Y, Hu W, Zou F, Ning J, Rao T, Ruan Y, Yu W, Cheng F. MTHFD2 promotes PD-L1 expression via activation of the JAK/STAT signalling pathway in bladder cancer. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:2922-2936. [PMID: 37480214 PMCID: PMC10538262 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although combination chemotherapy is widely used for bladder cancer (BC) treatment, the recurrence and progression rates remain high. Therefore, novel therapeutic targets are required. Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) contributes to tumourigenesis and immune evasion in several cancers; however, its biological function in BC remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression, prognostic value and protumoural function of MTHFD2 in BC and elucidate the mechanism of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) upregulation by MTHFD2. An analysis using publicly available databases revealed that a high MTHFD2 expression was correlated with clinical features and a poor prognosis in BC. Furthermore, MTHFD2 promoted the growth, migration, invasion and tumourigenicity and decreased the apoptosis of BC cells in vivo and in vitro. The results obtained from databases showed that MTHFD2 expression was correlated with immune infiltration levels, PD-L1 expression, and the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway. The expression of MTHFD2, PD-L1 and JAK/STAT signalling pathway-related proteins increased after interferon gamma treatment and decreased after MTHFD2 knockdown. Moreover, addition of a JAK/STAT pathway activator partially reduced the effect of MTHFD2 knockdown on BC cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that MTHFD2 promotes the expression of PD-L1 through the JAK/STAT signalling pathway in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzhi Li
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yunlong Zhang
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Weimin Hu
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Fan Zou
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jinzhuo Ning
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Ting Rao
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Weimin Yu
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Fan Cheng
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
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15
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Li C, Teng P, Sun S, Cui K, Yao S, Fei B, Ling F, Huang Z. Acetylation of aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH1L2 regulates cellular redox balance and the chemosensitivity of colorectal cancer to 5-fluorouracil. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105090. [PMID: 37507016 PMCID: PMC10470206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism (FOCM) is crucial in sustaining rapid proliferation and survival of cancer cells. The folate cycle depends on a series of key cellular enzymes, including aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member L2 (ALDH1L2) that is usually overexpressed in cancer cells, but the regulatory mechanism of ALDH1L2 remains undefined. In this study, we observed the significant overexpression of ALDH1L2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues, which is associated with poor prognosis. Mechanistically, we identified that the acetylation of ALDH1L2 at the K70 site is an important regulatory mechanism inhibiting the enzymatic activity of ALDH1L2 and disturbing cellular redox balance. Moreover, we revealed that sirtuins 3 (SIRT3) directly binds and deacetylates ALDH1L2 to increase its activity. Interestingly, the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) inhibits the expression of SIRT3 and increases the acetylation levels of ALDH1L2 in colorectal cancer cells. 5-Fu-induced ALDH1L2 acetylation sufficiently inhibits its enzymatic activity and the production of NADPH and GSH, thereby leading to oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and suppressing tumor growth in mice. Furthermore, the K70Q mutant of ALDH1L2 sensitizes cancer cells to 5-Fu both in vitro and in vivo through perturbing cellular redox and serine metabolism. Our findings reveal an unknown 5-Fu-SIRT3-ALDH1L2 axis regulating redox homeostasis, and suggest that targeting ALDH1L2 is a promising therapeutic strategy to sensitize tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Li
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng Teng
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengbai Sun
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kaisa Cui
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Surui Yao
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bojian Fei
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Ling
- Chemical Genetics Laboratory, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Zhaohui Huang
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China; Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
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16
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Zhu S, Wu Y, Song B, Yi M, Yan Y, Mei Q, Wu K. Recent advances in targeted strategies for triple-negative breast cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:100. [PMID: 37641116 PMCID: PMC10464091 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01497-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly aggressive subtype of breast cancer, negatively expresses estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Although chemotherapy is the main form of treatment for patients with TNBC, the effectiveness of chemotherapy for TNBC is still limited. The search for more effective therapies is urgent. Multiple targeted therapeutic strategies have emerged according to the specific molecules and signaling pathways expressed in TNBC. These include PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, Notch inhibitors, poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors, and antibody-drug conjugates. Moreover, immune checkpoint inhibitors, for example, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, and durvalumab, are widely explored in the clinic. We summarize recent advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy in TNBC, with the aim of serving as a reference for the development of individualized treatment of patients with TNBC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangli Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yuze Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bin Song
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Yuheng Yan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi Mei
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
- Cancer Center, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
- Cancer Center, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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17
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Yunos NM, Wahab HA, Al-Thiabat MG, Sallehudin NJ, Jauri MH. In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of the Anticancer Effects of Eurycomanone and Eurycomalactone from Eurycoma longifolia. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2827. [PMID: 37570981 PMCID: PMC10421158 DOI: 10.3390/plants12152827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Eurycomanone and eurycomalactone are known quassinoids present in the roots and stems of Eurycoma longifolia. These compounds had been reported to have cytotoxic effects, however, their mechanism of action in a few cancer cell lines have yet to be elucidated. This study was aimed at investigating the anticancer effects and mechanisms of action of eurycomanone and eurycomalactone in cervical (HeLa), colorectal (HT29) and ovarian (A2780) cancer cell lines via Sulforhodamine B assay. Their mechanism of cell death was evaluated based on Hoechst 33342 assay and in silico molecular docking toward DHFR and TNF-α as putative protein targets. Eurycomanone and eurycomalactone exhibited in vitro anticancer effects manifesting IC50 values of 4.58 ± 0.090 µM and 1.60 ± 0.12 µM (HeLa), 1.22 ± 0.11 µM and 2.21 ± 0.049 µM (HT-29), and 1.37 ± 0.13 µM and 2.46 ± 0.081 µM (A2780), respectively. They induced apoptotic cancer cell death in dose- and time-dependent manners. Both eurycomanone and eurycomalactone were also predicted to have good inhibitory potential as demonstrated by the docking into TNF-α with binding affinity of -8.83 and -7.51 kcal/mol, respectively, as well as into DHFR with binding affinity results of -8.05 and -8.87 kcal/mol, respectively. These results support the evidence of eurycomanone and eurycomalactone as anticancer agents via apoptotic cell death mechanism that could be associated with TNF-α and DHFR inhibition as among possible protein targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurhanan Murni Yunos
- Natural Products Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong 52109, Selangor, Malaysia; (N.J.S.); (M.H.J.)
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia;
| | - Habibah A. Wahab
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia;
| | - Mohammad G. Al-Thiabat
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia;
| | - Nor Jannah Sallehudin
- Natural Products Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong 52109, Selangor, Malaysia; (N.J.S.); (M.H.J.)
| | - Muhamad Haffiz Jauri
- Natural Products Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong 52109, Selangor, Malaysia; (N.J.S.); (M.H.J.)
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18
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Tong N, Wong-Roushar J, Wallace-Povirk A, Shah Y, Nyman MC, Katinas JM, Schneider M, O’Connor C, Bao X, Kim S, Li J, Hou Z, Matherly LH, Dann CE, Gangjee A. Multitargeted 6-Substituted Thieno[2,3- d]pyrimidines as Folate Receptor-Selective Anticancer Agents that Inhibit Cytosolic and Mitochondrial One-Carbon Metabolism. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:748-770. [PMID: 37200803 PMCID: PMC10186366 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Multitargeted agents with tumor selectivity result in reduced drug resistance and dose-limiting toxicities. We report 6-substituted thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds (3-9) with pyridine (3, 4), fluorine-substituted pyridine (5), phenyl (6, 7), and thiophene side chains (8, 9), for comparison with unsubstituted phenyl (1, 2) and thiophene side chain (10, 11) containing thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds. Compounds 3-9 inhibited proliferation of Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) expressing folate receptors (FRs) α or β but not the reduced folate carrier (RFC); modest inhibition of CHO cells expressing the proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT) by 4, 5, 6, and 9 was observed. Replacement of the side-chain 1',4'-phenyl ring with 2',5'-pyridyl, or 2',5'-pyridyl with a fluorine insertion ortho to l-glutamate resulted in increased potency toward FR-expressing CHO cells. Toward KB tumor cells, 4-9 were highly active (IC50's from 2.11 to 7.19 nM). By metabolite rescue in KB cells and in vitro enzyme assays, de novo purine biosynthesis was identified as a targeted pathway (at 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase (AICARFTase) and glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase (GARFTase)). Compound 9 was 17- to 882-fold more potent than previously reported compounds 2, 10, and 11 against GARFTase. By targeted metabolomics and metabolite rescue, 1, 2, and 6 also inhibited mitochondrial serine hydroxymethyl transferase 2 (SHMT2); enzyme assays confirmed inhibition of SHMT2. X-ray crystallographic structures were obtained for 4, 5, 9, and 10 with human GARFTase. This series affords an exciting new structural platform for potent multitargeted antitumor agents with FR transport selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian Tong
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15282, United States
| | - Jennifer Wong-Roushar
- Department
of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Adrianne Wallace-Povirk
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Yesha Shah
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15282, United States
| | - Morgan C. Nyman
- Department
of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Jade M. Katinas
- Department
of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Mathew Schneider
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Carrie O’Connor
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Xun Bao
- Barbara
Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Seongho Kim
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
- Barbara
Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Jing Li
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
- Barbara
Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Zhanjun Hou
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
- Barbara
Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Larry H. Matherly
- Department
of Oncology, Wayne State University School
of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
- Department
of Pharmacology, Wayne State University
School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Charles E. Dann
- Department
of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Aleem Gangjee
- Division
of Medicinal Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15282, United States
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19
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Sun W, Liu R, Gao X, Lin Z, Tang H, Cui H, Zhao E. Targeting serine-glycine-one-carbon metabolism as a vulnerability in cancers. Biomark Res 2023; 11:48. [PMID: 37147729 PMCID: PMC10161514 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00487-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The serine-glycine-one-carbon (SGOC) metabolic pathway is critical for DNA methylation, histone methylation, and redox homeostasis, in addition to protein, lipid, and nucleotide biosynthesis. The SGOC pathway is a crucial metabolic network in tumorigenesis, wherein the outputs are required for cell survival and proliferation and are particularly likely to be co-opted by aggressive cancers. SGOC metabolism provides an integration point in cell metabolism and is of crucial clinical significance. The mechanism of how this network is regulated is the key to understanding tumor heterogeneity and overcoming the potential mechanism of tumor recurrence. Herein, we review the role of SGOC metabolism in cancer by focusing on key enzymes with tumor-promoting functions and important products with physiological significance in tumorigenesis. In addition, we introduce the ways in which cancer cells acquire and use one-carbon unit, and discuss the recently clarified role of SGOC metabolic enzymes in tumorigenesis and development, as well as their relationship with cancer immunotherapy and ferroptosis. The targeting of SGOC metabolism may be a potential therapeutic strategy to improve clinical outcomes in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Ruochen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
| | - Xinyue Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Zini Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China.
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
| | - Erhu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, No.2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei District, 400716, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China.
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
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20
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Cappello A, Zuccotti A, Mancini M, Tosetti G, Fania L, Ricci F, Melino G, Candi E. Serine and one-carbon metabolism sustain non-melanoma skin cancer progression. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:102. [PMID: 36964165 PMCID: PMC10039038 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01398-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is a tumor that arises from human keratinocytes, showing abnormal control of cell proliferation and aberrant stratification. Cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (cBCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) are the most common sub-types of NMSC. From a molecular point of view, we are still far from fully understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the onset and progression of NMSC and to unravel targetable vulnerabilities to leverage for their treatment, which is still essentially based on surgery. Under this assumption, it is still not elucidated how the central cellular metabolism, a potential therapeutical target, is involved in NMSC progression. Therefore, our work is based on the characterization of the serine anabolism/catabolism and/or one-carbon metabolism (OCM) role in NMSC pathogenesis. Expression and protein analysis of normal skin and NMSC samples show the alteration of the expression of two enzymes involved in the serine metabolism and OCM, the Serine Hydroxy-Methyl Transferase 2 (SHMT2) and Methylen-ThetraHydroFolate dehydrogenase/cyclohydrolase 2 (MTHFD2). Tissues analysis shows that these two enzymes are mainly expressed in the proliferative areas of cBCC and in the poorly differentiated areas of cSCC, suggesting their role in tumor proliferation maintenance. Moreover, in vitro silencing of SHMT2 and MTHFD2 impairs the proliferation of epidermoid cancer cell line. Taken together these data allow us to link the central cellular metabolism (serine and/or OCM) and NMSC proliferation and progression, offering the opportunity to modulate pharmacologically the involved enzymes activity against this type of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Cappello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mara Mancini
- Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Tosetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Fania
- Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Candi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133, Rome, Italy.
- Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, 00167, Rome, Italy.
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Qu Y, He Y, Ruan H, Qin L, Han Z. Abnormal downregulation of 10-formyltetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase promotes the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma by activating PI3K/Akt/Rb pathway. Cancer Med 2023; 12:5781-5797. [PMID: 36336972 PMCID: PMC10028165 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5327] [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: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 10-formyltetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (ALDH1L1) is a major folate enzyme, which is usually underexpressed in malignant tumors and competes with tumors for the same folate substrate. However, the specific role and mechanisms of ALDH1L1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remainsobscure. METHODS The expression level of ALDH1L1 in paired OSCC tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues were detected by quantitative realtime PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The relationship between ALDH1L1 expression and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Besides, CCK8, EdU staining, colony formation, wound healing, transwell invasion, apoptosis, cell cycle assays and nude mice tumor bearing experiments were employed to assess the role of ALDH1L1 in OSCC. To explore the underlying mechanisms of these effects, cell cycle-related markers were examined. RESULTS In this study, we revealed that ALDH1L1 expression was significantly reduced in OSCC, and its downregulation was associated with the malignancy of the tumor and poor prognosis of patients. In vivo and in vitro experiments, downregulation of ALDH1L1 in OSCC significantly inhibited the occurrence of NADP+ -dependent catalytic reactions and facilitated tumor cell growth, migration, invasion, survival, cell cycle progression, and xenograft tumor growth. On the contrary, re-expression of ALDH1L1 plays a similar role to anti-folate therapy, promoting NADPH production and suppressing the progression of OSCC. Furthermore, ALDH1L1 overexpressing obviously inhibited the expression of PI3K, p-Akt, CDK2, CDK6, Cyclin D1, Cyclin D3, and Rb in OSCC cells, and promoted the expression of p27. LY294002 and 740 Y-P were used to confirm the inhibitory effects of ALDH1L1 on OSCC progression through PI3K/Akt/Rb pathway. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the clinical value of ALDH1L1 as a prognostic marker and the potential of a new target for anti-folate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Qu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying He
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hanjin Ruan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lizheng Qin
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengxue Han
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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22
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E. coli Secretome Metabolically Modulates MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells' Energy Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044219. [PMID: 36835626 PMCID: PMC9964955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044219] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is commonly diagnosed in women. BC cells are associated with altered metabolism, which is essential to support their energetic requirements, cellular proliferation, and continuous survival. The altered metabolism of BC cells is a result of the genetic abnormalities of BC cells. Risk factors can also enhance it, including age, lifestyle, hormone disturbances, etc. Other unknown BC-promoting risk factors are under scientific investigation. One of these investigated factors is the microbiome. However, whether the breast microbiome found in the BC tissue microenvironment can impact BC cells has not been studied. We hypothesized that E. coli, part of a normal breast microbiome with more presence in BC tissue, secretes metabolic molecules that could alter BC cells' metabolism to maintain their survival. Thus, we directly examined the impact of the E. coli secretome on the metabolism of BC cells in vitro. MDA-MB-231 cells, an in vitro model of aggressive triple-negative BC cells, were treated with the E. coli secretome at different time points, followed by untargeted metabolomics analyses via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify metabolic alterations in the treated BC cell lines. MDA-MB-231 cells that were not treated were used as controls. Moreover, metabolomic analyses were performed on the E. coli secretome to profile the most significant bacterial metabolites affecting the metabolism of the treated BC cell lines. The metabolomics results revealed about 15 metabolites that potentially have indirect roles in cancer metabolism that were secreted from E. coli in the culture media of MDA-MB-231 cells. The cells treated with the E. coli secretome showed 105 dysregulated cellular metabolites compared to controls. The dysregulated cellular metabolites were involved in the metabolism of fructose and mannose, sphingolipids, amino acids, fatty acids, amino sugar, nucleotide sugar, and pyrimidine, which are vital pathways required for the pathogenesis of BC. Our findings are the first to show that the E. coli secretome modulates the BC cells' energy metabolism, highlighting insights into the possibility of altered metabolic events in BC tissue in the actual BC tissue microenvironment that are potentially induced by the local bacteria. Our study provides metabolic data that could be as a basis for future studies searching for the underlying mechanisms mediated by bacteria and their secretome to alter the metabolism of BC cells.
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Zhang H, Zhu S, Zhou H, Li R, Xia X, Xiong H. Identification of MTHFD2 as a prognostic biomarker and ferroptosis regulator in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1098357. [PMID: 36726381 PMCID: PMC9885267 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1098357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) is a mitochondrial bifunctional enzyme encoded in the nucleus. It plays a significant role in the regulation of glucose, nucleic acid, and folate metabolism, and maintains redox balance in the cells. The present study aimed at elucidating the potential function and mechanisms of MTHFD2 and explored the correlation between ferroptosis and MTHFD2 in triple-negative breast cancer. Methods MTHFD2 expression, survival analysis, and clinical correlation were performed using data from various online databases including TCGA, GEO, HPA, GTEX, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, PrognoScan, and UALCAN databases. Genomic alterations and CNV analysis were performed using the cBioPortal and GSCA databases. Potential functions and mechanisms were explored by enrichment analysis. The tumor microenvironment was identified by the TIMER database. In vitro, RT-qPCR and western blot assays were utilized to identify the MTHFD2 expression and the knockdown effects in breast cancer. CCK8, cell wound healing, transwell, and flow cytometry assays were used to identify the potential function of MTHFD2 in TNBC cells. MDA, GSH detection, and flow cytometry assays were performed to identify ferroptosis. Western blot assays were performed to measure the protein expression of all target genes. Results MTHFD2 expression levels were up-regulated in the majority of cancers and particularly in TNBC, in which higher expression levels indicated a poorer prognosis. Enrichment analyses showed that MTHFD2 is involved in various tumor-related biological processes. MTHFD2 expression was found to strongly correlate with multiple immune cell infiltration. In vitro, the knockdown of MTHFD2 suppresses the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in TNBC cells. In addition, the MTHFD2 knockdown significantly enhanced intracellular ROS and lipid peroxidation and decreased intracellular GSH. The expressions of SLC7A11, GPX4, and NRF2 were down-regulated by the MTHFD2 knockdown. Conclusion MTHFD2 could be a crucial molecular biomarker for predicting patient prognosis and a novel therapeutic target in TNBC. In addition, MTHFD2 is a potential ferroptosis regulatory gene in TNBC.
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Xu L, Xiao Y, Zhang J, Fang X. Structural insights into translation regulation by the THF-II riboswitch. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:952-965. [PMID: 36620887 PMCID: PMC9881143 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In bacteria, expression of folate-related genes is controlled by the tetrahydrofolate (THF) riboswitch in response to specific binding of THF and its derivatives. Recently, a second class of THF riboswitches, named THF-II, was identified in Gram-negative bacteria, which exhibit distinct architecture from the previously characterized THF-I riboswitches found in Gram-positive bacteria. Here, we present the crystal structures of the ligand-bound THF-II riboswitch from Mesorhizobium loti. These structures exhibit a long rod-like fold stabilized by continuous base pair and base triplet stacking across two helices of P1 and P2 and their interconnecting ligand-bound binding pocket. The pterin moiety of the ligand docks into the binding pocket by forming hydrogen bonds with two highly conserved pyrimidines in J12 and J21, which resembles the hydrogen-bonding pattern at the ligand-binding site FAPK in the THF-I riboswitch. Using small-angle X-ray scattering and isothermal titration calorimetry, we further characterized the riboswitch in solution and reveal that Mg2+ is essential for pre-organization of the binding pocket for efficient ligand binding. RNase H cleavage assay indicates that ligand binding reduces accessibility of the ribosome binding site in the right arm of P1, thus down-regulating the expression of downstream genes. Together, these results provide mechanistic insights into translation regulation by the THF-II riboswitch.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jie Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China,Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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25
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The anti-proliferative effect of β-carotene against a triple-negative breast cancer cell line is cancer cell-specific and JNK-dependent. PHARMANUTRITION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phanu.2022.100320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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26
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Cui X, Zhang F, Zhao Y, Li P, Wang T, Xu Z, Zhang J, Zhang W. A novel ligand-modified nanocomposite microparticles improved efficiency of quercetin and paclitaxel delivery in the non-small cell lung cancer. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:3123-3133. [PMID: 36151722 PMCID: PMC9848416 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2120567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is the first choice for the treatment of cancer but it is still limited by insufficient kill efficiency and drug resistance. These problems urgently need to be overcome in a way that minimizes damage to the body. In this study, we designed the nanocomposite microparticles (NMPs) modified by cetuximab (Cet) and loaded anti-tumor agents- quercetin (QUE) and paclitaxel (PTX)- for eliciting specific drugs homing and enhancing the killing efficiency of chemotherapy drugs (P/Q@CNMPs). Physicochemical characteristics results presented that P/Q@CNMPs have a suitable aerodynamic diameter and uniform morphology that could meet the requirements of particles deposition in the lung. And it also had the characteristics of sustained-release and pH-responsive which could release the agents in the right place and has a continuous effect. In vitro and in vivo analysis results presented that P/Q@CNMPs have the accuracy targeting ability and killing effect on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) which express positive epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on the membrane. Furthermore, this system also has low toxicity and good biocompatibility. These results demonstrated that P/Q@CNMPs could be a potential intelligent targeting strategy used for chemo-resistant NSCLC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Cui
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Fang Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Pan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Ting Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Zhilu Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- College of Basic Medical, Qingdao Binhai University, Qingdao, P.R. China,CONTACT Jingjing Zhang College of Basic Medical, Qingdao Binhai University, Qingdao, 266000, P.R. China; Weifen Zhang College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, 7166# Baotong West Street, Weifang261053, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Weifen Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, P.R. China,Shandong Intelligent Materials and Regenerative Medicine Engineering Technology Research Center, Weifang, P.R. China
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Sponagel J, Devarakonda S, Rubin JB, Luo J, Ippolito JE. De novo serine biosynthesis from glucose predicts sex-specific response to antifolates in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. iScience 2022; 25:105339. [PMID: 36325067 PMCID: PMC9619300 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death. Intriguingly, males with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have a higher mortality rate than females. Here, we investigated the role of serine metabolism as a predictive marker for sensitivity to the antifolate pemetrexed in male and female NSCLC cell lines. Using [13C6] glucose tracing in NSCLC cell lines, we found that a subset of male cells generated significantly more serine from glucose than female cells. Higher serine biosynthesis was further correlated with increased sensitivity to pemetrexed in male cells only. Concordant sex differences in metabolic gene expression were evident in NSCLC and pan-cancer transcriptome datasets, suggesting a potential mechanism with wide-reaching applicability. These data were further validated by integrating antifolate drug cytotoxicity and metabolic pathway transcriptome data from pan-cancer cell lines. Together, these findings highlight the importance of considering sex differences in cancer metabolism to improve treatment for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Sponagel
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Siddhartha Devarakonda
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joshua B. Rubin
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neuroscience Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jingqin Luo
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center Biostatistics Shared Resource, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joseph E. Ippolito
- Department of Radiology Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
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Ma S, Bo Y, Zhao X, Cao Y, Duan D, Dou W, Fu W, Zeng F, Lyu Q, Liu Y. One-carbon metabolism-related nutrients intake is associated with lower risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women: a matched case-control study. Nutr Res 2022; 107:218-227. [PMID: 36351308 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2022.10.004] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have suggested that folate plays a role in preeclampsia (PE) risks, but few studies have assessed folate-related 1-carbon metabolism (OCM)-related nutrients with the risk of PE. We hypothesized that OCM-related nutrients are associated with PE. A 1:1 matched case-control study was conducted to explore the association between dietary OCM-related nutrients intake and the risk of PE in pregnant Chinese women. Four hundred and forty pairs of pregnant women with PE and hospital-based, healthy pregnant women, matched according to gestational week (±1 week) and age (±3 years), were recruited. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated 78-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Multivariate conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs. Restricted cubic splines were plotted to evaluate the dose-response relationship between dietary OCM-related nutrient intake and the risk of PE. Intake of folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, methionine, and total choline were inversely related to the risk of PE after adjustment for covariates (all P trend < .05). Adjusted ORs (95% CIs) for quartile 4 versus quartile 1 were 0.71 (0.55-0.93) for folate, 0.66 (0.50-0.87) for vitamin B6, 0.68 (0.52-0.88) for vitamin B12, 0.77 (0.60-0.81) for methionine, and 0.67 (0.51-0.87) for total choline. This study suggests that dietary OCM-related nutrients intake is associated with lower odds of PE in pregnant Chinese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunping Ma
- Department of Nutrition, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Yacong Bo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China.
| | - Xianlan Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Yuan Cao
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Dandan Duan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Luoyang New Area People's Hospital, Luoyang 471023, Henan, China.
| | - Weifeng Dou
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China.
| | - Wenjun Fu
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Fangfang Zeng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, Guangdong, China.
| | - Quanjun Lyu
- Department of Nutrition, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China; Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China.
| | - Yanhua Liu
- Department of Nutrition, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
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29
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Tang B, Hu L, Jiang T, Li Y, Xu H, Zhou H, Lan M, Xu K, Yin J, Su C, Zhou C, Xu C. A Metabolism-Related Gene Prognostic Index for Prediction of Response to Immunotherapy in Lung Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12143. [PMID: 36293001 PMCID: PMC9602971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), is a validated strategy for treating lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. One of the main challenges in ICIs treatment is the lack of efficient biomarkers for predicting response or resistance. Metabolic reprogramming has been proven to remodel the tumor microenvironment, altering the response to ICIs. We constructed a prognostic model as metabolism-related gene (MRG) of four genes by using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), the nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF), and Cox regression analysis of a LUAD dataset (n = 500) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), which was validated with three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets (n = 442, n = 226 and n = 127). The MRG was constructed based on BIRC5, PLK1, CDKN3, and CYP4B1 genes. MRG-high patients had a worse survival probability than MRG-low patients. Furthermore, the MRG-high subgroup was more associated with cell cycle-related pathways; high infiltration of activated memory CD4+T cells, M0 macrophages, and neutrophils; and showed better response to ICIs. Contrarily, the MRG-low subgroup was associated with fatty acid metabolism, high infiltration of dendric cells, and resting mast cells, and showed poor response to ICIs. MRG is a promising prognostic index for predicting survival and response to ICIs and other therapeutic agents in LUAD, which might provide insights on strategies with ICIs alone or combined with other agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Tang
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Lanlin Hu
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507, Zhengmin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yunchang Li
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Huasheng Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical BioResource Development and Application, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Mei Lan
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
| | - Chunxia Su
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507, Zhengmin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Caicun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507, Zhengmin Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Integrative Cancer Center and Cancer Clinical Research Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610042, China
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Li D, Yu H, Hu J, Li S, Yan Y, Li S, Sun L, Jiang G, Hou L, Zhang L, Zhang P. Comparative profiling of single-cell transcriptome reveals heterogeneity of tumor microenvironment between solid and acinar lung adenocarcinoma. J Transl Med 2022; 20:423. [PMID: 36138435 PMCID: PMC9502652 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diversity of histologic composition reflects the inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity of lung adenocarcinomas (LUADs) macroscopically. Insights into the oncological characteristics and tumor microenvironment (TME) of different histologic subtypes of LUAD at the single-cell level can help identify potential therapeutic vulnerabilities and combinational approaches to improve the survival of LUAD patients. METHODS Through comparative profiling of cell communities defined by scRNA-seq data, we characterized the TME of LUAD samples of distinct histologic subtypes, with relevant results further confirmed in multiple bulk transcriptomic, proteomic datasets and an independent immunohistochemical validation cohort. RESULTS We find that the hypoxic and acidic situation is the worst in the TME of solid LUADs compared to other histologic subtypes. Besides, the tumor metabolic preferences vary across histologic subtypes and may correspondingly impinge on the metabolism and function of immune cells. Remarkably, tumor cells from solid LUADs upregulate energy and substance metabolic activities, particularly the folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism and the key gene MTHFD2, which could serve as a potential therapeutic target. Additionally, ubiquitination modifications may also be involved in the progression of histologic patterns. Immunologically, solid LUADs are characterized by a predominance of exhausted T cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells, where the hypoxic, acidified and nutrient-deprived TME has a non-negligible impact. Discrepancies in stromal cell function, evidenced by varying degrees of stromal remodeling and fibrosis, may also contribute to the specific immune phenotype of solid LUADs. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our research proposes several potential entry points to improve the immunosuppressive TME of solid LUADs, thereby synergistically potentiating their immunotherapeutic efficacy, and may provide precise therapeutic strategies for LUAD patients of distinct histologic subtype constitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianke Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Huansha Yu
- Experimental Animal Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Junjie Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Shaoling Li
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yilv Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Shuangyi Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Liangdong Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Gening Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Likun Hou
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Lele Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, No. 507 Zhengmin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China. .,Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University Medical College, Shihezi, 832000, Xinjiang, China.
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Jin Y, Jung SN, Lim MA, Oh C, Piao Y, Kim HJ, Nguyena Q, Kang YE, Chang JW, Won HR, Koo BS. SHMT2 Induces Stemness and Progression of Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179714. [PMID: 36077112 PMCID: PMC9456418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Various enzymes in the one-carbon metabolic pathway are closely related to the development of tumors, and they can all be potential targets for cancer therapy. Serine hydroxymethyltransferase2 (SHMT2), a key metabolic enzyme, is very important for the proliferation and growth of cancer cells. However, the function and mechanism of SHMT2 in head and neck cancer (HNC) are not clear. An analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data showed that the expression of SHMT2 was higher in tumor tissue than in normal tissue, and its expression was significantly associated with male sex, aggressive histological grade, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, advanced TNM stage, and lymphovascular invasion in HNC. SHMT2 knockdown in FADU and SNU1041 cell lines significantly inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses using TCGA data revealed that SHMT2 was closely related to cancer stem cell regulation and maintenance. Furthermore, we found that silencing SHMT2 inhibited the expression of stemness markers and tumor spheroid formation compared with a control group. On the contrary, stemness markers were significantly increased after SHMT2 overexpression in HEP-2 cells. Interestingly, we found that knocking down SHMT2 reduced the expression of genes related to the Notch and Wnt pathways. Finally, silencing SHMT2 significantly reduced tumor growth and decreased stemness markers in a xenograft model. Taken together, our study suggests that targeting SHMT2 may play an important role in inhibiting HNC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Jin
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Seung-Nam Jung
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Mi Ae Lim
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Chan Oh
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Yudan Piao
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Hae Jong Kim
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - QuocKhanh Nguyena
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Yea Eun Kang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Jae Won Chang
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Ho-Ryun Won
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
| | - Bon Seok Koo
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-42-280-7690
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Liu J, Hong S, Yang J, Zhang X, Wang Y, Wang H, Peng J, Hong L. Targeting purine metabolism in ovarian cancer. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:93. [PMID: 35964092 PMCID: PMC9375293 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01022-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purine, an abundant substrate in organisms, is a critical raw material for cell proliferation and an important factor for immune regulation. The purine de novo pathway and salvage pathway are tightly regulated by multiple enzymes, and dysfunction in these enzymes leads to excessive cell proliferation and immune imbalance that result in tumor progression. Maintaining the homeostasis of purine pools is an effective way to control cell growth and tumor evolution, and exploiting purine metabolism to suppress tumors suggests interesting directions for future research. In this review, we describe the process of purine metabolism and summarize the role and potential therapeutic effects of the major purine-metabolizing enzymes in ovarian cancer, including CD39, CD73, adenosine deaminase, adenylate kinase, hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase, inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, purine nucleoside phosphorylase, dihydrofolate reductase and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Purinergic signaling is also described. We then provide an overview of the application of purine antimetabolites, comprising 6-thioguanine, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate, fludarabine and clopidogrel. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future opportunities for targeting purine metabolism in the treatment-relevant cellular mechanisms of ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingchun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shasha Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaxin Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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Regulation and Therapeutic Targeting of MTHFD2 and EZH2 in KRAS-Mutated Human Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12070652. [PMID: 35888776 PMCID: PMC9324032 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12070652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Activating KRAS mutations occur in about 30% of pulmonary adenocarcinoma (AC) cases and the discovery of specific inhibitors of G12C-mutated KRAS has considerably improved the prognosis for a subgroup of about 14% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, even in patients with a KRAS G12C mutation, the overall response rate only reaches about 40% and mutations other than G12C still cannot be targeted. Despite the fact that one-carbon metabolism (1CM) and epigenetic regulation are known to be dysregulated by aberrant KRAS activity, we still lack evidence that co-treatment with drugs that regulate these factors might ameliorate response rates and patient prognosis. In this study, we show a direct dependency of Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) and Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) expression on mutationally activated KRAS and their prognostic relevance in KRAS-mutated AC. We show that aberrant KRAS activity generates a vulnerability of AC cancer cell lines to both MTHFD2 and EZH2 inhibitors. Importantly, co-inhibition of both factors was synergistically effective and comparable to KRASG12C inhibition alone, paving the way for their use in a therapeutic approach for NSCLC cancer patients.
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Targeting mitochondrial one-carbon enzyme MTHFD2 together with pemetrexed confers therapeutic advantages in lung adenocarcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:307. [PMID: 35790743 PMCID: PMC9256677 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01098-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
AbstractMetabolic remodeling is the fundamental molecular feature of malignant tumors. Cancer cells require sufficient energy supplies supporting their high proliferative rate. MTHFD2, a mitochondrial one-carbon metabolic enzyme, is dysregulated in several malignancies and may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate in cancer treatment. Here, our data confirmed that MTHFD2 gene and protein was upregulated in the cancerous tissues of LUAD patients and was correlated with a poor survival in LUAD. MTHFD2 was involved in lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis by mediating its downstream molecules, such as DNA helicases (MCM4 and MCM7), as well as ZEB1, Vimentin and SNAI1, which contributed to tumor cell growth and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Moreover, we identified that miRNA-99a-3p appeared to be an upstream mediator directly regulating MTHFD2 and MCM4 expression. Moreover, specific inhibition of MTHFD2 functions by siRNA or a chemical compound, improved anti-tumor sensitivities induced by pemetrexed in LUAD. Taken together, our study revealed the underlying molecular mechanisms of MTHFD2 in regulating cell proliferation and identified a novel therapeutic strategy improving the treatment efficacies in LUAD.
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Wallace-Povirk A, Rubinsak L, Malysa A, Dzinic SH, Ravindra M, Schneider M, Glassbrook J, O'Connor C, Hou Z, Kim S, Back J, Polin L, Morris RT, Gangjee A, Gibson H, Matherly LH. Targeted therapy of pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine antifolates in a syngeneic mouse model of high grade serous ovarian cancer and the impact on the tumor microenvironment. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11346. [PMID: 35790779 PMCID: PMC9256750 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14788-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel therapies are urgently needed for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. In addition, therapies that target unique vulnerabilities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of EOC have largely been unrealized. One strategy to achieve selective drug delivery for EOC therapy involves use of targeted antifolates via their uptake by folate receptor (FR) proteins, resulting in inhibition of essential one-carbon (C1) metabolic pathways. FRα is highly expressed in EOCs, along with the proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT); FRβ is expressed on activated macrophages, a major infiltrating immune population in EOC. Thus, there is great potential for targeting both the tumor and the TME with agents delivered via selective transport by FRs and PCFT. In this report, we investigated the therapeutic potential of a novel cytosolic C1 6-substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine inhibitor AGF94, with selectivity for uptake by FRs and PCFT and inhibition of de novo purine nucleotide biosynthesis, against a syngeneic model of ovarian cancer (BR-Luc) which recapitulates high-grade serous ovarian cancer in patients. In vitro activity of AGF94 was extended in vivo against orthotopic BR-Luc tumors. With late-stage subcutaneous BR-Luc xenografts, AGF94 treatment resulted in substantial anti-tumor efficacy, accompanied by significantly decreased M2-like FRβ-expressing macrophages and increased CD3+ T cells, whereas CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were unaffected. Our studies demonstrate potent anti-tumor efficacy of AGF94 in the therapy of EOC in the context of an intact immune system, and provide a framework for targeting the immunosuppressive TME as an essential component of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Rubinsak
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Agnes Malysa
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Sijana H Dzinic
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Manasa Ravindra
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA
| | - Mathew Schneider
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - James Glassbrook
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Carrie O'Connor
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Zhanjun Hou
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Seongho Kim
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Jessica Back
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Lisa Polin
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Robert T Morris
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Aleem Gangjee
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - Heather Gibson
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Larry H Matherly
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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Hong Y, Zhou Z, Zhang N, He Q, Guo Z, Liu L, Song Y, Chen P, Wei Y, Xu Q, Li Y, Wang B, Qin X, Xu X, Duan Y. Association between plasma Vitamin B5 levels and all-cause mortality: A nested case-control study. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2022; 24:945-954. [PMID: 35699663 PMCID: PMC9278592 DOI: 10.1111/jch.14516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the prospective association of vitamin B5 with all‐cause mortality and explore its potential modifiers in Chinese adults with hypertension. A nested, case‐control study was conducted in the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial, including 505 deaths of all causes and 505 matched controls. The median follow‐up duration was 4.5 years. The primary outcome measure in this investigation was all‐cause mortality, which encompassed deaths for any reason. The mean plasma vitamin B5 concentration for cases (43.7 ng/mL) was higher than that in controls (40.9 ng/mL) (p = .001). When vitamin B5 was further assessed as quintiles, compared with the reference group (Q1: < 33.0 ng/mL), the risk of all‐cause mortality increased by 29% (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.83‐2.01) in Q2, 22% (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.77‐1.94) in Q3, 62% (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.00‐2.62) in Q4, and 77% (OR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.06‐2.95) in Q5. The trend test was significant (p = .022). When Q4‐Q5 were combined, a significant 41% increment (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.95) in all‐cause death risk was found compared with Q1‐Q3. The adverse effects were more pronounced in those with normal folate levels (p‐interaction = .019) and older people (p‐interaction = .037). This study suggests that higher baseline levels of plasma vitamin B5 are a risk factor for all‐cause mortality among Chinese patients with hypertension, especially among older adults and those with adequate folate levels. The findings, if confirmed, may inform novel clinical and nutritional guidelines and interventions to optimize vitamin B5 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Hong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Ziyi Zhou
- Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Evergreen Medical Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiangqiang He
- Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Evergreen Medical Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhangyou Guo
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Lishun Liu
- Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Evergreen Medical Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun Song
- Institute of Biomedicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaping Wei
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Food Sciences and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuyue Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Ya Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Binyan Wang
- Institute of Biomedicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory for Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianhui Qin
- Institute of Biomedicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory for Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiping Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Food Sciences and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, State Key Laboratory for Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Duan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Kunming, China
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The Emerging Role of MTHFD Family Genes in Regulating the Tumor Immunity of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:4867730. [PMID: 35693982 PMCID: PMC9187492 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4867730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the function and regulatory mechanisms of methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD) family genes in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), especially focus on their regulating role in tumor immunity. Methods The publicly available data from the TCGA database were used to investigate the expression pattern and regulatory role of MTHFD family genes in OSCC. More importantly, the involvement of MTHFD family genes in tumor immunity was investigated in terms of immune and stromal cell infiltration in tumor microenvironment, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and immunomodulatory genes (e.g., immunoinhibitory genes and immunostimulatory genes). Statistical analysis was performed using R software packages and public web servers. Results MTHFD family genes were considerably upregulated in OSCC as compared with normal oral tissue. Patients with high MTHFD2 expression presented worse survival outcomes than those with low MTHFD2 expression. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the top 100 positively and negatively correlated genes of the MTHFD family genes were significantly enriched in several KEGG pathways, including cell cycle, spliceosome, DNA replication, and Th17 cell differentiation. As a result of tumor immunity analysis, MTHFD2L expression was found to be negatively related to the Estimate-Stromal-Immune score in OSCC; however, there was no statistical significance between the Estimate-Stromal-Immune score and MTHFD1, MTHFD1L, or MTHFD2 in OSCC. Additionally, MTHFD family genes were found to be significantly positively correlated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells, including Treg and Th17 cells. Moreover, MTHFD family genes were significantly correlated with several immune inhibitory genes such as CD274 and CTLA4 and several immune-stimulatory genes such as CXCL12, CXCR4, and TMIGD2. Conclusion Given the expression pattern, prognostic value, biological functions, and involvement in tumor immunity, MTHFD family genes could serve as potential therapeutic biomarkers in targeting tumor immunity in oral cancer.
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Knockdown of MTHFD2 inhibits proliferation and migration of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells through the ERK signaling pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 614:47-55. [PMID: 35567943 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.05.007] [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: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism (FOCM) plays a vital role in supporting cancer cells hyperproliferation. Malignant cells, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells, are characterized by rapid proliferation and thus need large numbers of nucleotides and nutrients generated from FOCM. However, the mechanism and key genes involved in FOCM playing a vital role in NPC progression are still unclear. This study aimed to find out the key gene, and its functions in NPC and explore the potential mechanism. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis based on TCGA and GSEA database were performed to screen the key FOCM related gene in HNSCC. The effects of MTHFD2 on cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration were conducted through MTHFD2 knockdown cell lines in vitro experiments. Cell proliferation was explored by CCK8 assay and colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was tested through flow cytometry. Transwell migration assay was performed to study the cell migration. The potential pathway was explored by RNA-seq and the ERK inhibitor SCH772984 and the ERK activator tBHQ were applied to verify the effect of MTHFD2 in NPC via the ERK pathway. Finally, xenograft tumor model was used to explore the tumorigenicity of NPC cells in vivo and IHC was performed to study the expression of related proteins. RESULTS MTHFD2 was highly expressed in NPC and associated with a poor prognosis. MTHFD2 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration and induced apoptosis of NPC cells in vitro. In consistent with cellular results, knockdown of MTHFD2 suppressed the tumorigenicity of NPC cells in vivo. MAPK pathway was enriched among DEGs between MTHFD2 knockdown cells and control cells. And the level of p-ERK1/2 and p-p38 MAPK was decreased in MTHFD2 knockdown cells and xenograft tumors of MTHFD2 knockdown cells. Furthermore, the application of the selective ERK inhibitor SCH772984 and the ERK activator tBHQ confirmed that MTHFD2-knockdown inhibited the proliferation and migration of NPC cells via the ERK signaling pathway. CONCLUSION MTHFD2 was up-regulated in NPC tissues and its high expression was linked to a poor prognosis. Knockdown of MTHFD2 inhibited proliferation and migration of NPC cells through the ERK signaling pathway, which may provide new clues and targets for the treatment of NPC.
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Liao M, Qin R, Huang W, Zhu HP, Peng F, Han B, Liu B. Targeting regulated cell death (RCD) with small-molecule compounds in triple-negative breast cancer: a revisited perspective from molecular mechanisms to targeted therapies. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:44. [PMID: 35414025 PMCID: PMC9006445 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01260-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of human breast cancer with one of the worst prognoses, with no targeted therapeutic strategies currently available. Regulated cell death (RCD), also known as programmed cell death (PCD), has been widely reported to have numerous links to the progression and therapy of many types of human cancer. Of note, RCD can be divided into numerous different subroutines, including autophagy-dependent cell death, apoptosis, mitotic catastrophe, necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis and anoikis. More recently, targeting the subroutines of RCD with small-molecule compounds has been emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy, which has rapidly progressed in the treatment of TNBC. Therefore, in this review, we focus on summarizing the molecular mechanisms of the above-mentioned seven major RCD subroutines related to TNBC and the latest progress of small-molecule compounds targeting different RCD subroutines. Moreover, we further discuss the combined strategies of one drug (e.g., narciclasine) or more drugs (e.g., torin-1 combined with chloroquine) to achieve the therapeutic potential on TNBC by regulating RCD subroutines. More importantly, we demonstrate several small-molecule compounds (e.g., ONC201 and NCT03733119) by targeting the subroutines of RCD in TNBC clinical trials. Taken together, these findings will provide a clue on illuminating more actionable low-hanging-fruit druggable targets and candidate small-molecule drugs for potential RCD-related TNBC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minru Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rui Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Hong-Ping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.,Antibiotics Research and Re-Evaluation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Industrial Institute of Antibiotics, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Cui L, Zhao X, Jin Z, Wang H, Yang SF, Hu S. Melatonin modulates metabolic remodeling in HNSCC by suppressing MTHFD1L-formate axis. J Pineal Res 2021; 71:e12767. [PMID: 34533844 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic remodeling is now widely recognized as a hallmark of cancer, yet its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains largely unknown. In this study, metabolomic analysis of melatonin-treated HNSCC cell lines revealed that exogenous melatonin inhibited many important metabolic pathways including folate cycle in HNSCC cells. Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 like (MTHFD1L), a metabolic enzyme of the folate cycle regulating the production of formate, was identified as a downstream target of melatonin. MTHFD1L was found to be markedly upregulated in HNSCC, and MTHFD1L overexpression was significantly associated with unfavorable clinical outcome of HNSCC patients. In addition, MTHFD1L promoted HNSCC progression in vitro and in vivo and reversed the oncostatic effects of exogenous melatonin. More importantly, the malignant phenotypes suppressed by knockdown of MTHFD1L or exogenous melatonin could be partially rescued by formate. Furthermore, we found that melatonin inhibited the expression of MTHFD1L in HNSCC cells through the downregulation of cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein 1 (CREB1) phosphorylation. Lastly, this novel regulatory axis of melatonin-p-CREB1-MTHFD1L-formate was also verified in HNSCC tissues. Collectively, our findings have demonstrated that MTHFD1L-formate axis promotes HNSCC progression and melatonin inhibits HNSCC progression through CREB1-mediated downregulation of MTHFD1L and formate. These findings have revealed new metabolic mechanisms in HNSCC and may provide novel insights on the therapeutic intervention of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Cui
- School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenning Jin
- School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hailin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shun-Fa Yang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shen Hu
- School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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41
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Liu X, Liu S, Piao C, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Jiang Y, Kong C. Non-metabolic function of MTHFD2 activates CDK2 in bladder cancer. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:4909-4919. [PMID: 34632667 PMCID: PMC8645701 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is a common tumor with a high recurrence rate and high fatality rate, and its mechanism of occurrence and development remains unclear. Many proteins and metabolites reprogram at different stages of tumor development to support tumor cell growth. The moonlighting effect happens when a protein performs multiple functions simultaneously in a cell. In this study, we identified a metabolic protein, MTHFD2, which participates in the cell cycle by binding to CDK2 in bladder cancer. MTHFD2 has been shown to affect bladder cancer cell growth, which is independent of its metabolic function. We found that MTHFD2 was involved in cell cycle regulation and could encourage cell cycle progression by activating CDK2 and sequentially affecting E2F1 activation. In addition, moonlighting MTHFD2 might be regulated by the dynamics of the mitochondria. In conclusion, MTHFD2 localizes in the nucleus to perform a distinct function of catalyzing metabolic reactions. Moreover, the nuclear MTHFD2 activates CDK2 and promotes bladder cancer cell growth by modulating the cell cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Liu
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Shuangjie Liu
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Chiyuan Piao
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Xiaotong Zhang
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Yuanjun Jiang
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Chuize Kong
- Department of UrologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
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42
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Ren X, Rong Z, Liu X, Gao J, Xu X, Zi Y, Mu Y, Guan Y, Cao Z, Zhang Y, Zeng Z, Fan Q, Wang X, Pei Q, Wang X, Xin H, Li Z, Nie Y, Qiu Z, Li N, Sun L, Deng Y. The protein kinase activity of NME7 activates Wnt/β-Catenin signaling to promote one-carbon metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Res 2021; 82:60-74. [PMID: 34764205 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-1020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming by oncogenic signaling is a hallmark of cancer. Hyperactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been reported in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanisms inducing hyperactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and strategies for targeting this pathway are incompletely understood. In this study, we find nucleoside diphosphate kinase 7 (NME7) to be a positive regulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Upregulation of NME7 positively correlated with the clinical features of HCC. Knockdown of NME7 inhibited HCC growth in vitro and in vivo, while overexpression of NME7 cooperated with c-Myc to drive tumorigenesis in a mouse model and promote the growth of tumor-derived organoids. Mechanistically, NME7 bound and phosphorylated serine 9 of GSK3β to promote β-catenin activation. Furthermore, MTHFD2, the key enzyme in one-carbon metabolism, was a target gene of β-catenin and mediated the effects of NME7. Tumor-derived organoids with NME7 overexpression exhibited increased sensitivity to MTHFD2 inhibition. Additionally, expression levels of NME7, β-catenin and MTHFD2 correlated with each other and with poor prognosis in HCC patients. Collectively, this study emphasizes the crucial roles of NME7 protein kinase activity in promoting Wnt/β-catenin signaling and one-carbon metabolism, suggesting NME7 and MTHFD2 as potential therapeutic targets for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Ren
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Zhuoxian Rong
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital
| | - Jie Gao
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Xu Xu
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
| | - Yuyuan Zi
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Yun Mu
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | | | - Zhen Cao
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Yuefang Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Kay Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Zimei Zeng
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Qi Fan
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Xitao Wang
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Qian Pei
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
| | - Haiguang Xin
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
| | - Zhi Li
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | | | - Zilong Qiu
- Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience, Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Nan Li
- The Eestern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University
| | | | - Yuezhen Deng
- Xiangya Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
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Chen J, Yang Y, Lin B, Xu Z, Yang X, Ye S, Xie Z, Li Y, Hong J, Huang Z, Huang W. Hollow mesoporous organosilica nanotheranostics incorporating formimidoyltransferase cyclodeaminase (FTCD) plasmids for magnetic resonance imaging and tetrahydrofolate metabolism fission on hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Pharm 2021; 612:121281. [PMID: 34774692 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The formimidoyltransferase cyclodeaminase (FTCD) gene encodes an enzyme required for the catabolism of histidine and tetrahydrofolate (THF). Previous studies showed that FTCD plays a role as a tumour suppressor gene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is unknown whether the restoration of functional FTCD may exhibit an anti-tumour effect on HCC. This study constructed a delivery system based on hollow mesoporous organosilica nanotheranostics (HMON) capable of efficiently loading Mn ions and FTCD plasmids. This study showed that the Mn-doped and FTCD-loaded nanoparticles (HMON@Mn-PEI@FTCD) could efficiently induce the expression of FTCD and achieve enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. In vitro results demonstrated that the upregulation of FTCD induced by HMON@Mn-PEI@FTCD nanoparticles dramatically reduced intracellular THF levels, inhibited of NADPH/NADP+ and GSH/GSSG ratios, and induced reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondrial oxidative stress. As a result, cytochrome c release increased with the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, which finally activated the caspase-dependent cell apoptosis pathway. Therefore, our designed HMON@Mn-PEI@FTCD could induce apoptosis by activating the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis signalling pathway, and finally significantly suppressed the proliferation of HCC both in vitro and in vivo, which provides an effective strategy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China; National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Doctoral Workstation, Chaozhou Central Hospital, Chaozhou 521000, China
| | - Yang Yang
- National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Bingquan Lin
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zexian Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China
| | - Shaoguang Ye
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China
| | - Zhaoxiong Xie
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China
| | - Yanbing Li
- National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China.
| | - Jianwen Hong
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Chaozhou Central Hospital of Southern Medical University, Chaozhou 521000 China; Guangdong Doctoral Workstation, Chaozhou Central Hospital, Chaozhou 521000, China.
| | - Zehai Huang
- Department of Urology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China.
| | - Wenhua Huang
- National Key Discipline of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China; The third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China.
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44
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Meghoufel ZF, Cherifi F, Boukra A, Terki F. Ab-initioinvestigation on the electronic and thermoelectric properties of new half-Heusler compounds KBi X( X= Ba and Sr). JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2021; 33:395701. [PMID: 34229317 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac1180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Electronic structures and thermoelectric (TE) properties of KBiBa and KBiSr half-Heusler compounds are investigated by using the combined framework of first-principles and semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory. Elastic and phonon properties calculations reveal that these compounds are mechanically and dynamically stable. Band structures calculations, using the Tran and Blaha modified Becke-Johnson potential including spin-orbit coupling, show that KBiBa and KBiSr compounds are semiconductors with an indirect bandgap of 0.88 and 0.95 eV respectively. Performing calculations on lattice thermal conductivity, deformation potential, effective mass of charge carriers and their relaxation times allow us to deduce the dependence of the figure of merit ZT on doping concentration and temperature. At 1200 K, KBiBa and KBiSr compounds exhibit a ZT peak value of 2.68 and 1.56 at optimizedn-doping values of 2.2 × 1019and 1.7 × 1019 cm-3, respectively. Considering high ZT values, KBiBa and KBiSr are considered to be ideal TE candidates at high temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z F Meghoufel
- Laboratoire de Structure, Elaboration et Application des Matériaux Moléculaires, SEA2M, Université Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - F Cherifi
- Laboratoire de Structure, Elaboration et Application des Matériaux Moléculaires, SEA2M, Université Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - A Boukra
- Laboratoire de Structure, Elaboration et Application des Matériaux Moléculaires, SEA2M, Université Abdelhamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - F Terki
- Physiologie et Médecine Expérimentale du Cœur et des Muscles PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, CHU Arnaud de Villeneuve 371 avenue du Doyen Gaston Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, Cedex 5, France
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