The Fos family of transcription factors and their role in tumourigenesis

Phenethyl isothiocyanate inhibits the carcinogenic properties of hepatocellular carcinoma Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with limited effective treatment options. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a bioactive substance present primarily in the cruciferous vegetables. PEITC has exhibited anti-cancer properties in various cancers, including lung, bile duct, and prostate cancers. It has been demonstrated that PEITC can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of SK-Hep1 cells, while effectively inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HepG2 cells. However, knowledge of its anti-carcinogenic effects on Huh7.5.1 cells and its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the anti-carcinogenic effects of PEITC on human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells.

Methods

MTT assay and colony formation assay was performed to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of PEITC against Huh7.5.1 cells. The pro-apoptosis effects of PEITC were determined by Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assay by flow cytometry (FCM), mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MMP) measurement, and Caspase-3 activity detection. A DAPI staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay was conducted to estimate the DNA damage in Huh7.5.1 cells induced by PEITC. Cell cycle progression was determined by FCM. Transwell invasion assay and wound healing migration assay were performed to investigate the impact of PEITC on the migration and invasion of Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, transcriptome sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of the inhibitory effects of PEITC on HCC. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis was performed to verify the transcriptome data.

Results

MTT assay showed that treatment of Huh7.5.1 cells with PEITC resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in viability, and colony formation assay further confirmed its anti-proliferative effect. Furthermore, we found that PEITC could induce mitochondrial-related apoptotic responses, including a decrease of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, activation of Caspase-3 activity, and generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. It was also observed that PEITC caused DNA damage and cell cycle arrest in the S-phase in Huh7.5.1 cells. In addition, the inhibitory effect of PEITC on the migration and invasion ability of Huh7.5.1 cells was assessed. Transcriptome sequencing analysis further suggested that PEITC could activate the typical MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and p53 signaling pathways, revealing the potential mechanism of PEITC in inhibiting the carcinogenic properties of Huh7.5.1 cells.

Conclusion

PEITC exhibits anti-carcinogenic activities against human HCC Huh7.5.1 cells by activating MAPK/PI3K-Akt/p53 signaling pathways. Our results suggest that PEITC may be useful for the anti-HCC treatment.

The application of a self-designed microfluidic lung chip in the assessment of different inhalable aerosols

Microfluidic-based assessment platforms have recently attracted considerable attention and have been widely used for evaluating in vitro toxic effects. In the present study, we developed an original real-time aerosol exposure system, which focused on a self-designed microfluidic chip, in order to evaluate the toxicological effects following exposure to inhalable aerosols. The three-layer structured microfluidic chip enables real-time aerosol exposure at the gas-liquid interface. The comprehensive detection of toxic effect biomarkers based on this assessment platform encompasses transcriptomics, in situ fluorescence detection, and the identification of extracellular secretagogues. Correspondingly, the effects of selected inhalable aerosols such as cigarette smoke (CS), heated tobacco product smoke (HS), and electronic cigarette smoke (ES) on gene expression profiles, cell viability, intracellular biomarkers (reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide), apoptosis (caspase-3/7 activity), and extracellular biomarkers (IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, and malondialdehyde) in the BEAS-2B cells present on the chip were investigated. Following exposure to aerosols derived from CS, HS, and ES, the transcriptome analysis revealed differential expression in these cells. In addition, the overlapping DEGs from the different treatment groups were found to be primarily associated with stimuli and inflammatory responses. Correspondingly, each of the three categories of selected inhalable aerosols was confirmed to induce significant changes in biomarkers that were associated with toxic effects. These results suggest that the original real-time aerosol exposure system centered around a self-designed chip can be applied to the toxic effect evaluation of inhalable aerosol exposure.

Transcription Factors in Prostate Cancer: Insights for Disease Development and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins essential for the regulation of gene expression, and they regulate the genes involved in different cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, survival, and apoptosis. Although their expression is essential in normal physiological conditions, abnormal regulation of TFs plays critical role in several diseases, including cancer. In prostate cancer, the most common malignancy in men, TFs are known to play crucial roles in the initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy of the disease. Understanding the interplay between these TFs and their downstream targets provides insights into the molecular basis of prostate cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the involvement of key TFs, including the E26 Transformation-Specific (ETS) Family (ERG and SPDEF), NF-κB, Activating Protein-1 (AP-1), MYC, and androgen receptor (AR), in prostate cancer while focusing on the molecular mechanisms involved in prostate cancer development. We also discuss emerging diagnostic strategies, early detection, and risk stratification using TFs. Furthermore, we explore the development of therapeutic interventions targeting TF pathways, including the use of small molecule inhibitors, gene therapies, and immunotherapies, aimed at disrupting oncogenic TF signaling and improving patient outcomes. Understanding the complex regulation of TFs in prostate cancer provides valuable insights into disease biology, which ultimately may lead to advancing precision approaches for patients.

Mitochondria-mediated ferroptosis induced by CARD9 ablation prevents MDSCs-dependent antifungal immunity

BACKGROUND

Caspase Recruitment Domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9) expressed in myeloid cells has been demonstrated to play an antifungal immunity role in protecting against disseminated candidiasis. Hereditary CARD9 ablation leads to fatal disseminated candidiasis. However, the myeloid cell types and molecular mechanisms implicated in CARD9 protecting against disseminated candidiasis remain wholly elusive.

METHODS

The role of CARD9 ablation in exacerbating disseminated candidiasis was determined in vivo and in vitro. The molecular mechanism by which CARD9 ablation promotes acute kidney injury in disseminated candidiasis was identified by RNA-sequencing analysis. The expression of mitochondrial proteins and ferroptosis-associated proteins were measured by Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot.

RESULTS

CARD9 ablation resulted in a reduced proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and a substantially lower expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) in the kidneys, which increased susceptibility to acute kidney injury and renal ferroptosis during disseminated Candida tropicalis (C. tropicalis) infection. Moreover, CARD9-deficient MDSCs were susceptible to ferroptosis upon stimulation with C. tropicalis, which was attributed to augmented mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) caused by reduced SLC7A11 expression. Mechanistically, C-type lectin receptors (CLRs)-mediated recognition of C. tropicalis promoted the expression of SLC7A11 which was transcriptionally manipulated by the Syk-PKCδ-CARD9-FosB signaling axis in MDSCs. FosB enhanced SLC7A11 transcription by binding to the promoter of SLC7A11 in MDSCs stimulated with C. tropicalis. Mitochondrial OXPHOS, which was negatively regulated by SLC7A11, was responsible for inducing ferroptosis of MDSCs upon C. tropicalis stimulation. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial OXPHOS or ferroptosis significantly increased the number of MDSCs in the kidneys to augment host antifungal immunity, thereby attenuating ferroptosis and acute kidney injury exacerbated by CARD9 ablation during disseminated candidiasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our findings show that CARD9 ablation enhances mitochondria-mediated ferroptosis in MDSCs, which negatively regulates antifungal immunity. We also identify mitochondria-mediated ferroptosis in MDSCs as a new molecular mechanism of CARD9 ablation-exacerbated acute kidney injury during disseminated candidiasis, thus targeting mitochondria-mediated ferroptosis is a novel therapeutic strategy for acute kidney injury in disseminated candidiasis.

AP-1/C-FOS and AP-1/FRA2 differentially regulate early and late adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells

Obesity is defined as an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue in the body and is a major global health problem due to increased morbidity and mortality. Adipose tissue is made up of adipocytes, which are fat-storing cells, and the differentiation of these fat cells is known as adipogenesis. Several transcription factors (TFs) such as CEBPβ, CEBPα, PPARγ, GATA, and KLF have been reported to play a key role in adipogenesis. In this study, we report one more TF AP-1, which is found to be involved in adipogenesis. Human mesenchymal stem cells  were differentiated into adipocytes, and the expression pattern of different subunits of AP-1 was examined during adipogenesis. It was observed that C-FOS was predominantly expressed at an early stage (Day 2), whereas FRA2 expression peaked at later stages (Days 6 and 8) of adipogenesis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing analysis revealed that C-FOS binds mainly to the promoters of WNT1, miR-30a, and ANAPC7 and regulates their expression during mitotic clonal expansion. In contrast, FRA2 binds to the promoters of CIDEA, NOTCH1, ARAF, and MYLK, regulating their expression and lipid metabolism. Data obtained clearly indicate that the differential expression of C-FOS and FRA2 is crucial for different stages of adipogenesis. This also raises the possibility of considering AP-1 as a therapeutic target for treating obesity and related disorders.

Primary vascular tumors of bone: A comprehensive literature review on classification, diagnosis and treatment

Primary vascular tumors of bone are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, ranging from benign hemangiomas to frankly malignant epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas and angiosarcomas. Over the years, their classification has been a matter of discussion, due to morphologic similarities and uncertainty regarding biologic behavior. Over the past decade, with the development of next-generation sequencing, there has been a significant improvement in the molecular characterization of these lesions. The integration of their morphologic, immunohistochemical and molecular features has led to a better stratification, with important prognostic and therapeutic implications. Nevertheless, primary vascular bone tumors still represent a challenge for medical oncologists. Given their rarity and heterogeneity, in the last few years, there has been no significant progress in medical treatment options, so further research is needed. Here we present a review of the current knowledge regarding primary vascular tumors of the bone, correlating clinicopathologic features with tumor behavior and therapeutic approaches.

Iron overload promotes the progression of MLL-AF9 induced acute myeloid leukemia by upregulation of FOS

Systemic iron overload is a common clinical challenge leading to significantly serious complications in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which affects both the quality of life and the overall survival of patients. Symptoms can be relieved after iron chelation therapy in clinical practice. However, the roles and mechanisms of iron overload on the initiation and progression of leukemia remain elusive. Here we studied the correlation between iron overload and AML clinical outcome, and further explored the role and pathophysiologic mechanism of iron overload in AML by using two mouse models: an iron overload MLL-AF9-induced AML mouse model and a nude xenograft mouse model. Patients with AML had an increased ferritin level, particularly in the myelomonocytic (M4) or monocytic (M5) subtypes. High level of iron expression correlated with a worsened prognosis in AML patients and a shortened survival time in AML mice. Furthermore, iron overload increased the tumor load in the bone marrow (BM) and extramedullary tissues by promoting the proliferation of leukemia cells through the upregulation of FOS. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into the roles of iron overload in AML. Additionally, this study may provide a potential therapeutic target to improve the outcome of AML patients and a rationale for the prospective evaluation of iron chelation therapy in AML.

Role of Fra-2 in cancer

Fos-related antigen-2 (Fra-2) is the most recently discovered member of the Fos family and, by dimerizing with Jun proteins, forms the activator protein 1 (AP-1) transcription factor. By inducing or repressing the transcription of several target genes, Fra-2 is critically involved in the modulation of cell response to a variety of extracellular stimuli, stressors and intracellular changes. In physiological conditions, Fra-2 has been found to be ubiquitously expressed in human cells, regulating differentiation and homeostasis of bone, muscle, nervous, lymphoid and other tissues. While other AP-1 members, like Jun and Fos, are well characterized, studies of Fra-2 functions in cancer are still at an early stage. Due to the lack of a trans-activating domain, which is present in other Fos proteins, it has been suggested that Fra-2 might inhibit cell transformation, eventually exerting an anti-tumor effect. In human malignancies, however, Fra-2 activity is enhanced (or induced) by dysregulation of microRNAs, oncogenes and extracellular signaling, suggesting a multifaceted role. Therefore, Fra-2 can promote or prevent transformation, proliferation, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, drug resistance and metastasis formation in a tumor- and context-dependent manner. Intriguingly, recent data reports that Fra-2 is also expressed in cancer associated cells, contributing to the intricate crosstalk between neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells, that leads to the evolution and remodeling of the tumor microenvironment. In this review we summarize three decades of research on Fra-2, focusing on its oncogenic and anti-oncogenic effects in tumor progression and dissemination.

Plant homeodomain-finger protein 5A: A key player in cancer progression

PHF5A is a member of the zinc-finger proteins. To advance knowledge on their role in carcinogenesis, data from experimental studies, animal models and clinical studies in different tumorigenesis have been reviewed. Furthermore, PHF5A as an oncogenic function, is frequently high expressed in tumor cells and a potential prognostic marker for different cancers. PHF5A is implicated in the regulation of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration and metastasis. Knockdown of PHF5A prevented the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. Here, the role of PHF5A in different cancers and their possible mechanism in relation to recent literature is reviewed and discussed. There is an open promising perspective to their therapeutic management for different cancer types.

Integrated Stress Response (ISR) Pathway: Unraveling Its Role in Cellular Senescence

Cellular senescence is a complex process characterized by irreversible cell cycle arrest. Senescent cells accumulate with age, promoting disease development, yet the absence of specific markers hampers the development of selective anti-senescence drugs. The integrated stress response (ISR), an evolutionarily highly conserved signaling network activated in response to stress, globally downregulates protein translation while initiating the translation of specific protein sets including transcription factors. We propose that ISR signaling plays a central role in controlling senescence, given that senescence is considered a form of cellular stress. Exploring the intricate relationship between the ISR pathway and cellular senescence, we emphasize its potential as a regulatory mechanism in senescence and cellular metabolism. The ISR emerges as a master regulator of cellular metabolism during stress, activating autophagy and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response, crucial for maintaining mitochondrial quality and efficiency. Our review comprehensively examines ISR molecular mechanisms, focusing on ATF4-interacting partners, ISR modulators, and their impact on senescence-related conditions. By shedding light on the intricate relationship between ISR and cellular senescence, we aim to inspire future research directions and advance the development of targeted anti-senescence therapies based on ISR modulation.

FTO up-regulation induced by MYC suppresses tumour progression in Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is regarded as a distinct molecular subtype of GC, accounting for approximately 9% of all GC cases. Clinically, EBVaGC patients are found to have a significantly lower frequency of lymph node metastasis and better prognosis than uninfected individuals. RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has an indispensable role in modulating tumour progression in various cancer types. However, its impact on EBVaGC remains unclear.

METHODS

Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and m6A dot blot were conducted to compare the m6A modification levels between EBVaGC and EBV-negative GC (EBVnGC) cells. Western blot, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry were applied to explore the underlying mechanism of the reduced m6A modification in EBVaGC. The biological function of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) was determined in vivo and in vitro. The target genes of FTO were screened by MeRIP-seq, RT-qPCR and Western blot. The m6A binding proteins of target genes were verified by RNA pulldown and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and Luciferase report assays were performed to investigate the mechanism how EBV up-regulated FTO expression.

RESULTS

M6A demethylase FTO was notably increased in EBVaGC, leading to a reduction in m6A modification, and higher FTO expression was associated with better clinical outcomes. Furthermore, FTO depressed EBVaGC cell metastasis and aggressiveness by reducing the expression of target gene AP-1 transcription factor subunit (FOS). Methylated FOS mRNA was specifically recognized by the m6A 'reader' insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 1/2 (IGF2BP1/2), which enhanced its transcripts stability. Moreover, MYC activated by EBV in EBVaGC elevated FTO expression by binding to a specific region of the FTO promoter.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanistically, our work uncovered a crucial suppressive role of FTO in EBVaGC metastasis and invasiveness via an m6A-FOS-IGF2BP1/2-dependent manner, suggesting a promising biomarker panel for GC metastatic prediction and therapy.

Dynamic compartmentalization of the pro-invasive transcription factor NHR-67 reveals a role for Groucho in regulating a proliferative-invasive cellular switch in C. elegans

A growing body of evidence suggests that cell division and basement membrane invasion are mutually exclusive cellular behaviors. How cells switch between proliferative and invasive states is not well understood. Here, we investigated this dichotomy in vivo by examining two cell types in the developing Caenorhabditis elegans somatic gonad that derive from equipotent progenitors, but exhibit distinct cell behaviors: the post-mitotic, invasive anchor cell and the neighboring proliferative, non-invasive ventral uterine (VU) cells. We show that the fates of these cells post-specification are more plastic than previously appreciated and that levels of NHR-67 are important for discriminating between invasive and proliferative behavior. Transcription of NHR-67 is downregulated following post-translational degradation of its direct upstream regulator, HLH-2 (E/Daughterless) in VU cells. In the nuclei of VU cells, residual NHR-67 protein is compartmentalized into discrete punctae that are dynamic over the cell cycle and exhibit liquid-like properties. By screening for proteins that colocalize with NHR-67 punctae, we identified new regulators of uterine cell fate maintenance: homologs of the transcriptional co-repressor Groucho (UNC-37 and LSY-22), as well as the TCF/LEF homolog POP-1. We propose a model in which the association of NHR-67 with the Groucho/TCF complex suppresses the default invasive state in non-invasive cells, which complements transcriptional regulation to add robustness to the proliferative-invasive cellular switch in vivo.

Transcriptional Profiling of SARS-CoV-2-Infected Calu-3 Cells Reveals Immune-Related Signaling Pathways

The COVID-19 disease, caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in late 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide, becoming a pandemic that infected millions of people and caused significant deaths. COVID-19 continues to be a major threat, and there is a need to deepen our understanding of the virus and its mechanisms of infection. To study the cellular responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection, we performed an RNA sequencing of infected vs. uninfected Calu-3 cells. Total RNA was extracted from infected (0.5 MOI) and control Calu-3 cells and converted to cDNA. Sequencing was performed, and the obtained reads were quality-analyzed and pre-processed. Differential expression was assessed with the EdgeR package, and functional enrichment was performed in EnrichR for Gene Ontology, KEGG pathways, and WikiPathways. A total of 1040 differentially expressed genes were found in infected vs. uninfected Calu-3 cells, of which 695 were up-regulated and 345 were down-regulated. Functional enrichment analyses revealed the predominant up-regulation of genes related to innate immune response, response to virus, inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. These transcriptional changes following SARS-CoV-2 infection may reflect a cellular response to the infection and help to elucidate COVID-19 pathogenesis, in addition to revealing potential biomarkers and drug targets.

FOS Inhibits the Differentiation of Intramuscular Adipocytes in Goats

Goat intramuscular fat (IMF) deposition is precisely regulated by many key genes as well as transcription factors. Nevertheless, the potential of the regulators of goat IMF deposition remains undefined. In this work, we reported that the transcription factor FOS is expressed at a low level at the early differentiation stage and at a high level in late differentiation. The overexpression of FOS inhibited intramuscular adipocyte lipid accumulation and significantly downregulated the expressions of PPARγ, C/EBPβ, C/EBPα, AP2, SREBP1, FASN, ACC, HSL, and ATGL. Consistently, the knockdown of FOS, facilitated by two distinct siRNAs, significantly promoted intramuscular adipocyte lipid accumulation. Moreover, our analysis revealed multiple potential binding sites for FOS on the promoters of PPARγ, C/EBPβ, and C/EBPα. The expression changes in PPARγ, C/EBPβ, and C/EBPα during intramuscular adipogenesis were opposite to that of FOS. In summary, FOS inhibits intramuscular lipogenesis in goats and potentially negatively regulates the expressions of PPARγ, C/EBPβ, and C/EBPα genes. Our research will provide valuable data for the underlying molecular mechanism of the FOS regulation network of intramuscular lipogenesis.

Automated exploitation of deep learning for cancer patient stratification across multiple types

MOTIVATION

Recent frameworks based on deep learning have been developed to identify cancer subtypes from high-throughput gene expression profiles. Unfortunately, the performance of deep learning is highly dependent on its neural network architectures which are often hand-crafted with expertise in deep neural networks, meanwhile, the optimization and adjustment of the network are usually costly and time consuming.

RESULTS

To address such limitations, we proposed a fully automated deep neural architecture search model for diagnosing consensus molecular subtypes from gene expression data (DNAS). The proposed model uses ant colony algorithm, one of the heuristic swarm intelligence algorithms, to search and optimize neural network architecture, and it can automatically find the optimal deep learning model architecture for cancer diagnosis in its search space. We validated DNAS on eight colorectal cancer datasets, achieving the average accuracy of 95.48%, the average specificity of 98.07%, and the average sensitivity of 96.24%, respectively. Without the loss of generality, we investigated the general applicability of DNAS further on other cancer types from different platforms including lung cancer and breast cancer, and DNAS achieved an area under the curve of 95% and 96%, respectively. In addition, we conducted gene ontology enrichment and pathological analysis to reveal interesting insights into cancer subtype identification and characterization across multiple cancer types.

AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION

The source code and data can be downloaded from https://github.com/userd113/DNAS-main. And the web server of DNAS is publicly accessible at 119.45.145.120:5001.

Phloretin alleviates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity through regulating Hif3a transcription via targeting transcription factor Fos

BACKGROUND

Doxorubicin (Dox), a chemotherapeutic agent known for its efficacy, has been associated with the development of severe cardiotoxicity, commonly referred to as doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC). The role and mechanism of action of phloretin (Phl) in cardiovascular diseases are well-established; however, its specific function and underlying mechanism in the context of DIC have yet to be fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This research aimed to uncover the protective effect of Phl against DIC in vivo and in vitro, while also providing a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved.

METHODS

DIC cell and murine models were established. The action targets and mechanism of Phl against DIC were comprehensively examined by systematic network pharmacology, molecular docking, transcriptomics technologies, transcription factor (TF) prediction, and experimental validation.

RESULTS

Phl relieved Dox-induced cell apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Through network pharmacology analysis, a total of 554 co-targeted genes of Phl and Dox were identified. Enrichment analysis revealed several key pathways including the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Apoptosis, and the IL-17 signaling pathway. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis identified 24 core co-targeted genes, such as Fos, Jun, Hif1a, which were predicted to bind well to Phl based on molecular docking. Transcriptomics analysis was performed to identify the top 20 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 202 transcription factors (TFs) were predicted for these DEGs. Among these TFs, 10 TFs (Fos, Jun, Hif1a, etc.) are also the co-targeted genes, and 3 TFs (Fos, Jun, Hif1a) are also the core co-targeted genes. Further experiments validated the finding that Phl reduced the elevated levels of Hif3a (one of the top 20 DEGs) and Fos (one of Hif3a's predicted TFs) induced by Dox. Moreover, the interaction between Fos protein and the Hif3a promoter was confirmed through luciferase reporter assays.

CONCLUSION

Phl actively targeted and down-regulated the Fos protein to inhibit its binding to the promoter region of Hif3a, thereby providing protection against DIC.

From cultivation to cancer: formation of N-nitrosamines and other carcinogens in smokeless tobacco and their mutagenic implications

Tobacco use is a major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality globally. Tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco (ST), generally contain tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNAs), such as N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-butanone (NNK), which are potent carcinogens that cause mutations in critical genes in human DNA. This review covers the series of biochemical and chemical transformations, related to TSNAs, leading from tobacco cultivation to cancer initiation. A key aim of this review is to provide a greater understanding of TSNAs: their precursors, the microbial and chemical mechanisms that contribute to their formation in ST, their mutagenicity leading to cancer due to ST use, and potential means of lowering TSNA levels in tobacco products. TSNAs are not present in harvested tobacco but can form due to nitrosating agents reacting with tobacco alkaloids present in tobacco during certain types of curing. TSNAs can also form during or following ST production when certain microorganisms perform nitrate metabolism, with dissimilatory nitrate reductases converting nitrate to nitrite that is then released into tobacco and reacts chemically with tobacco alkaloids. When ST usage occurs, TSNAs are absorbed and metabolized to reactive compounds that form DNA adducts leading to mutations in critical target genes, including the RAS oncogenes and the p53 tumor suppressor gene. DNA repair mechanisms remove most adducts induced by carcinogens, thus preventing many but not all mutations. Lastly, because TSNAs and other agents cause cancer, previously documented strategies for lowering their levels in ST products are discussed, including using tobacco with lower nornicotine levels, pasteurization and other means of eliminating microorganisms, omitting fermentation and fire-curing, refrigerating ST products, and including nitrite scavenging chemicals as ST ingredients.

New kids on the block: FOS and FOSB gene

FOS and FOSB proto-oncogens are involved in a wide variety of tumourigenic processes. FOS and FOSB gene rearrangements are observed in epithelioid haemangioma, pseudomyogenic haemangioendothelioma, osteoid osteoma/osteoblastoma/cementoblastoma and proliferative myositis/fasciitis. In this review, we provide an overview of FOS and FOSB, including their functions and the differences between lesions with known FOS/FOSB gene rearrangements. Additionally, we discuss the use of FOS/FOSB immunohistochemistry as a diagnostic tool for these lesions.

Transcriptome analysis of divergent residual feed intake phenotypes in the M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum of Wannan Yellow rabbits

Introduction: Feed efficiency is an important economic trait in rabbit meat production. The identification of molecular mechanisms and candidate genes for feed efficiency may improve the economic and environmental benefits of the rabbit meat industry. As an alternative to the conventional feed conversion ratio, residual feed intake (RFI) can be used as an accurate indicator of feed efficiency. Methods: RNA sequencing was used to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum of eight Wannan Yellow rabbits with excessively high or low RFIs (HRFI or LRFI, respectively). Thereafter, Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, enrichment using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was conducted. Results: In total, 445 DEGs were identified in the M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum of rabbits with high and low RFIs. The significantly enriched GO terms identified in these two groups were primarily involved in energy and mitochondrial metabolism and oxidation-reduction processes. KEGG analysis identified 11 significantly enriched pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation, PI3K-Akt signaling, and extracellular matrix-receptor interaction pathways. According to GSEA, the expressions of genes and pathways related to mitochondrial function were upregulated in HRFI rabbits, whereas genes with upregulated expressions in LRFI rabbits were related to immune response and energy metabolism. Additionally, PPI network analysis revealed five potential candidate genetic markers. Conclusion: Comparative analysis of the M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum transcriptomes in HRFI and LRFI rabbits revealed FOS, MYC, PRKACB, ITGA2, and FN1 as potential candidate genes that affect feed efficiency in rabbits. In addition, key signaling pathways involved in oxidative phosphorylation and PI3K-Akt and ECM-receptor interaction signaling impact rabbit feed efficiency. These findings will aid in breeding programs to improve feed efficiency and optimize RFI selection of rabbits for meat production.

Identification of signature genes for renal ischemia‒reperfusion injury based on machine learning and WGCNA

Background

As an inevitable event after kidney transplantation, ischemia‒reperfusion injury (IRI) can lead to a decrease in kidney transplant success. The search for signature genes of renal ischemia‒reperfusion injury (RIRI) is helpful in improving the diagnosis and guiding clinical treatment.

Methods

We first downloaded 3 datasets from the GEO database. Then, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and applied for functional enrichment analysis. After that, we performed three machine learning methods, including random forest (RF), Lasso regression analysis, and support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE), to further predict candidate genes. WGCNA was also executed to screen candidate genes from DEGs. Then, we took the intersection of candidate genes to obtain the signature genes of RIRI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to measure the predictive ability of the signature genes. Kaplan‒Meier analysis was used for association analysis between signature genes and graft survival. Verifying the expression of signature genes in the ischemia cell model.

Results

A total of 117 DEGs were screened out. Subsequently, RF, Lasso regression analysis, SVM-RFE and WGCNA identified 17, 25, 18 and 74 candidate genes, respectively. Finally, 3 signature genes (DUSP1, FOS, JUN) were screened out through the intersection of candidate genes. ROC analysis suggested that the 3 signature genes could well diagnose and predict RIRI. Kaplan‒Meier analysis indicated that patients with low FOS or JUN expression had a longer OS than those with high FOS or JUN expression. Finally, we validated using the ischemia cell model that compared to the control group, the expression level of JUN increased under hypoxic conditions.

Conclusions

Three signature genes (DUSP1, FOS, JUN) offer a good prediction for RIRI outcome and may serve as potential therapeutic targets for RIRI intervention, especially JUN. The prediction of graft survival by FOS and JUN may improve graft survival in patients with RIRI.

Genomic Profiling of the Craniofacial Ossifying Fibroma by Next-Generation Sequencing

BACKGROUND

Ossifying fibroma (OF) of the craniofacial skeleton is a fibro-osseous lesion characterized by various patterns of bone formation in a cellular fibroblastic stroma. The molecular landscape of OF remains mostly unknown. There are a few known pathogenic abnormalities in OF, including HRPT2 mutations in conventional OF and SATB2 translocations in juvenile psammomatoid OF. On the other hand, conflicting reports exist regarding MDM2 gene amplification and chromosomal copy number alterations (CNA) in OF.

METHODS

Surgically removed biopsies and curettage specimens from OF patients were obtained. Clinical, radiographic, and pathologic features of tumors were reviewed. Genomic DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded blocks of tumor tissue. Capture-based DNA next-generation sequencing targeting the coding regions 529 cancer genes and select introns was performed.

RESULTS

We identified 17 OF cases from 8 male and 8 female patients with mean age of 22 years (range 1-58 years). Nine case occurred in the gnathic bones and 8 in the extragnathic craniofacial bones. These cases included 3 juvenile psammomatoid OF, 6 conventional OF and 8 juvenile trabecular OF. Large-scale CNAs were present in 6 of 17 cases. Seven cases (41%) had focal amplifications including FOSB (n = 2, 11%), FOS (n = 4, 23%), COL1A1 (n = 4, 23%) and TBX3 (n = 5, 29%). Three cases (17%) had pathogenic CDC73 mutations. No cases showed focal MDM2 amplification.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we provided a comprehensive molecular characterization of OF that reveals a heterogeneous genetic profile with occasional large-scale CNAs (n = 6, 35%). FOS, FOSB, and TBX3 genes that regulate AP-1 transcriptional complex are frequently altered in OF (n = 7, 41%), chiefly in juvenile trabecular OF. These genes encode transcription factors that act as downstream effectors of the MAP kinase signaling pathway. MDM2 amplification is an exceedingly rare event in OF, if present at all, so identification of this event should continue to raise concern for low-grade gnathic osteosarcoma. In summary, our findings suggest that OF represents a heterogeneous group of tumors at the genetic level but dysregulation of the AP-1 pathway may play a role in pathogenesis of juvenile trabecular OF.

Disruption of fos causes craniofacial anomalies in developing zebrafish

Craniofacial development is a complex and tightly regulated process and disruptions can lead to structural birth defects, the most common being nonsyndromic cleft lip and palate (NSCLP). Previously, we identified FOS as a candidate regulator of NSCLP through family-based association studies, yet its specific contributions to oral and palatal formation are poorly understood. This study investigated the role of fos during zebrafish craniofacial development through genetic disruption and knockdown approaches. Fos was expressed in the periderm, olfactory epithelium and other cell populations in the head. Genetic perturbation of fos produced an abnormal craniofacial phenotype with a hypoplastic oral cavity that showed significant changes in midface dimensions by quantitative facial morphometric analysis. Loss and knockdown of fos caused increased cell apoptosis in the head, followed by a significant reduction in cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) populating the upper and lower jaws. These changes resulted in abnormalities of cartilage, bone and pharyngeal teeth formation. Periderm cells surrounding the oral cavity showed altered morphology and a subset of cells in the upper and lower lip showed disrupted Wnt/β-catenin activation, consistent with modified inductive interactions between mesenchymal and epithelial cells. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that perturbation of fos has detrimental effects on oral epithelial and CNCC-derived tissues suggesting that it plays a critical role in zebrafish craniofacial development and a potential role in NSCLP.

LncRNA RP4-639F20.1 interacts with THRAP3 to attenuate atherosclerosis by regulating c-FOS in vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and migration

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The aberrant proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play an essential role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported as important regulators in a number of diseases. However, very little is known regarding the functional role of lncRNAs in governing proliferation and migration of VSMCs and AS development.

METHODS

Both in vitro and in vivo assays were performed to investigate the role of lncRNA in the pathophysiology of AS. Our previous lncRNA arrays revealed that lncRNA RP4-639F20.1 was significantly decreased in atherosclerotic plaques. Lentivirus overexpressing RP4-639F20.1 and lncRNA RP4-639F20.1 silencing vectors (Si-lnc-RP4-639F20.1) were constructed and transfected in VSMCs. The in vitro functions of lncRNA were analyzed by CCK-8 assays, EdU assays, scratch wound assays, transwell assays, qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization, immunoprecipitation and mRNA microarrays were used to explore the underlying mechanism. Adeno-associated-virus-9 (AAV9) overexpressing RP4-639F20.1 was constructed and injected intravenously into ApoE-/- mice to explore the role of lncRNA in vivo.

RESULTS

In vitro experiments showed that lncRNA RP4-639F20.1 interacted with THRAP3 and downregulated c-FOS expression. Both increase of lncRNA RP4-639F20.1 expression and knockdown of c-FOS inhibited the expression of MMP10 and VEGF-α in VSMCs and suppressed VSMCs proliferation and migration. In vivo experiments using ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet demonstrated that lncRNA RP4-639F20.1 overexpression deterred atherosclerosis and decreased lipid levels in atherosclerotic lesions. Patients with coronary artery disease were found to have higher c-FOS levels than healthy individuals and c-FOS expression was positively correlated with the SYNTAX score of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these data indicated that lncRNA RP4-639F20.1/THRAP3/c-FOS pathway protects against the development of atherosclerosis by suppressing VSMCs proliferation and migration. LncRNA RP4-639F20.1 and c-FOS could represent potential therapeutic targets to ameliorate atherosclerosis-related diseases.

The potential of activator protein 1 (AP-1) in cancer targeted therapy

Activator protein-1 (AP-1) is a transcription factor that consists of a diverse group of members including Jun, Fos, Maf, and ATF. AP-1 involves a number of processes such as proliferation, migration, and invasion in cells. Dysfunctional AP-1 activity is associated with cancer initiation, development, invasion, migration and drug resistance. Therefore, AP-1 is a potential target for cancer targeted therapy. Currently, some small molecule inhibitors targeting AP-1 have been developed and tested, showing some anticancer effects. However, AP-1 is complex and diverse in its structure and function, and different dimers may play different roles in different type of cancers. Therefore, more research is needed to reveal the specific mechanisms of AP-1 in cancer, and how to select appropriate inhibitors and treatment strategies. Ultimately, this review summarizes the potential of combination therapy for cancer.

Genomic Loss and Epigenetic Silencing of the FOSL1 Tumor Suppressor Gene in Radiation-induced Neoplastic Transformation of Human CGL1 Cells Alters the Tumorigenic Phenotype In Vitro and In Vivo

The CGL1 human hybrid cell system has been utilized for many decades as an excellent cellular tool for investigating neoplastic transformation. Substantial work has been done previously implicating genetic factors related to chromosome 11 to the alteration of tumorigenic phenotype in CGL1 cells. This includes candidate tumor suppressor gene FOSL1, a member of the AP-1 transcription factor complex which encodes for protein FRA1. Here we present novel evidence supporting the role of FOSL1 in the suppression of tumorigenicity in segregants of the CGL1 system. Gamma-induced mutant (GIM) and control (CON) cells were isolated from 7 Gy gamma-irradiated CGL1s. Western, Southern and Northern blot analysis were utilized to assess FOSL1/FRA1 expression as well as methylation studies. GIMs were transfected to re-express FRA1 and in vivo tumorigenicity studies were conducted. Global transcriptomic microarray and RT-qPCR analysis were used to further characterize these unique cell segregants. GIMs were found to be tumorigenic in vivo when injected into nude mice whereas CON cells were not. GIMs show loss of Fosl/FRA1 expression as confirmed by Western blot. Southern and Northern blot analysis further reveals that FRA1 reduction in tumorigenic CGL1 segregants is likely due to transcriptional suppression. Results suggest that radiation-induced neoplastic transformation of CGL1 is in part due to silencing of the FOSL1 tumor suppressor gene promoter by methylation. The radiation-induced tumorigenic GIMs transfected to re-express FRA1 resulted in suppression of subcutaneous tumor growth in nude mice in vivo. Global microarray analysis and RT-qPCR validation elucidated several hundred differentially expressed genes. Downstream analysis reveals a significant number of altered pathways and enriched Gene Ontology terms genes related to cellular adhesion, proliferation, and migration. Together these findings provide strong evidence that FRA1 is a tumor suppressor gene deleted and epigenetically silenced after ionizing radiation-induced neoplastic transformation in the CGL1 human hybrid cell system.

Unraveling the complexity of histone-arginine methyltransferase CARM1 in cancer: From underlying mechanisms to targeted therapeutics

Coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1), a type I protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT), has been widely reported to catalyze arginine methylation of histone and non-histone substrates, which is closely associated with the occurrence and progression of cancer. Recently, accumulating studies have demonstrated the oncogenic role of CARM1 in many types of human cancers. More importantly, CARM1 has been emerging as an attractive therapeutic target for discovery of new candidate anti-tumor drugs. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the molecular structure of CARM1 and its key regulatory pathways, as well as further discuss the rapid progress in better understanding of the oncogenic functions of CARM1. Moreover, we further demonstrate several representative targeted CARM1 inhibitors, especially focusing on demonstrating their designing strategies and potential therapeutic applications. Together, these inspiring findings would shed new light on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of CARM1 and provide a clue on discovery of more potent and selective CARM1 inhibitors for the future targeted cancer therapy.

Loss of function of GATA3 regulates FRA1 and c-FOS to activate EMT and promote mammary tumorigenesis and metastasis

Basal-like breast cancers (BLBCs) are among the most aggressive cancers, partly due to their enrichment of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Breast CSCs can be generated from luminal-type cancer cells via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). GATA3 maintains luminal cell fate, and its expression is lost or reduced in BLBCs. However, deletion of Gata3 in mice or cells results in early lethality or proliferative defects. It is unknown how loss-of-function of GATA3 regulates EMT and CSCs in breast cancer. We report here that haploid loss of Gata3 in mice lacking p18Ink4c, a cell cycle inhibitor, up-regulates Fra1, an AP-1 family protein that promotes mesenchymal traits, and downregulates c-Fos, another AP-1 family protein that maintains epithelial fate, leading to activation of EMT and promotion of mammary tumor initiation and metastasis. Depletion of Gata3 in luminal tumor cells similarly regulates Fra1 and c-Fos in activation of EMT. GATA3 binds to FOSL1 (encoding FRA1) and FOS (encoding c-FOS) loci to repress FOSL1 and activate FOS transcription. Deletion of Fra1 or reconstitution of Gata3, but not reconstitution of c-Fos, in Gata3 deficient tumor cells inhibits EMT, preventing tumorigenesis and/or metastasis. In human breast cancers, GATA3 expression is negatively correlated with FRA1 and positively correlated with c-FOS. Low GATA3 and FOS, but high FOSL1, are characteristics of BLBCs. Together, these data provide the first genetic evidence indicating that loss of function of GATA3 in mammary tumor cells activates FOSL1 to promote mesenchymal traits and CSC function, while concurrently repressing FOS to lose epithelial features. We demonstrate that FRA1 is required for the activation of EMT in GATA3 deficient tumorigenesis and metastasis.

FRA-1 as a Regulator of EMT and Metastasis in Breast Cancer

Among FOS-related components of the dimeric AP-1 transcription factor, the oncoprotein FRA-1 (encoded by FOSL1) is a key regulator of invasion and metastasis. The well-established FRA-1 pro-invasive activity in breast cancer, in which FOSL1 is overexpressed in the TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer)/basal subtypes, correlates with the FRA-1-dependent transcriptional regulation of EMT (Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition). After summarizing the major findings on FRA-1 in breast cancer invasiveness, we discuss the FRA-1 mechanistic links with EMT and cancer cell stemness, mediated by transcriptional and posttranscriptional interactions between FOSL1/FRA-1 and EMT-regulating transcription factors, miRNAs, RNA binding proteins and cytokines, along with other target genes involved in EMT. In addition to the FRA-1/AP-1 effects on the architecture of target promoters, we discuss the diagnostic and prognostic significance of the EMT-related FRA-1 transcriptome, along with therapeutic implications. Finally, we consider several novel perspectives regarding the less explored roles of FRA-1 in the tumor microenvironment and in control of the recently characterized hybrid EMT correlated with cancer cell plasticity, stemness, and metastatic potential. We will also examine the application of emerging technologies, such as single-cell analyses, along with animal models of TNBC and tumor-derived CTCs and PDXs (Circulating Tumor Cells and Patient-Derived Xenografts) for studying the FRA-1-mediated mechanisms in in vivo systems of EMT and metastasis.

EGFR-TKIs plus Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Stage IV Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled phase II study

BACKGROUND

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have a significant therapeutic effect in the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations. However, the acquired resistance greatly limits the survival benefit of EGFR-TKIs for EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) plus EGFR-TKIs in these patients.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized, controlled, phase 2 study, participants were recruited from 4 different hospitals in Wuhan, China. Eligible patients were histologically confirmed to have NSCLC with an EGFR-sensitive mutation (19DEL or 21L858R) and diagnosed at stage IV. Patients who had received first-line EGFR-TKIs treatment including gefitinib, erlotinib, and icotinib and achieved stable disease or partial response were enrolled after three months. Eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive SBRT plus EGFR-TKIs or EGFR-TKIs treatment alone. In the combination-group, different tumor sites were irradiated at doses ranging from 30-50Gy in five fractions. Considering the short duration of SBRT, the TKIs were continued during the radiotherapy. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), and the secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and safety. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, with the registration number of NCT03595644.

RESULTS

Between May 4, 2018 and Dec 20, 2019, 74 patients were screened, of whom 62 patients were enrolled and randomized. The study was closed early with 62/72 patients due to slow accrual. The enrolled patients were randomly assigned to receive SBRT plus EGFR-TKI(n=31) or EGFR-TKI alone (n=31). One patient who was randomized to the SBRT plus EGFR-TKI group refused to receive SBRT during the treatment, and, 61 patients were included the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) analysis, with 30 in the SBRT plus EGFR-TKI and 31 in the EGFR-TKI group. As of the clinical cutoff date (Feb 14, 2022), the median follow-up was 29.4 months (IQR 6.9-38.9). The median PFS of the EGFR-TKI group and SBRT combination group was 9.0 vs 17.6 months (hazard ratio [HR]=0.52, 95% confidence interval [95%CI], 0.31-0.89, P=0.016). Meanwhile, the median OS was 23.2 vs 33.6 months (HR [95%CI], 0.53(0.30-0.95); P= 0.026). There was no grade 3 or greater toxicity observed in either group, the grade 2 adverse events were 50% in the EGFR-TKIs+SBRT group while the percentage was 45.2% in the EGFR-TKIs+SBRT group.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of SBRT significantly delayed the onset of acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs and prolonged the PFS and OS of patients. Radiotherapy of the primary lesion alone might be superior to metastatic sites. Further confirmatory studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Identification of key modules and candidate genes associated with endometriosis based on transcriptome data via bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUNDS

Endometriosis is a common disease in women, but the signaling pathways and genes involved remain unclear. This study screened genes that were differentially expressed in ectopic endometrium (EC) and eutopic endometrium (EU) in endometriosis and provided clues for subsequent experimental verification.

METHODS

Endometriosis samples were harvested from inpatients that underwent surgery from 2017 to 2019 with pathological evidence of endometriosis. We assessed the mRNA expression profiles in endometriosis and further conducted gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify potential biomarkers in endometriosis. Finally, we further validated hub genes using public databases and immunohistochemistry assays.

RESULTS

The upregulated DEGs of ectopic endometrium from endometriosis patients were mainly involved in cell adhesion, MAPK signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, cytokine receptor interactions, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT)-associated signaling pathways. The downregulated DEGs between ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium were related to decidualization-associated genes in endometriosis. The correlated gene modules in eutopic endometrial cells were mainly enriched in cell adhesion, embryo implantation and inflammation. The eutopic and ectopic endometrial lesions in endometriosis were involved in the EMT process. Furthermore, we identified 18 co-expression modules during WGCNA analysis. Hub genes in the pale turquoise module were FOSB, JUNB, ATF3, CXCL2, FOS, etc. Significantly enriched KEGG pathways included the TNF, MAPK, foxO, oxytocin, and p53 signaling pathways. Enrichment pathways were directly related to immune surveillance, stem cell self-renewal, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. Several pathways and modules of endometriosis are related to cancer-associated pathways, which substantiates the correlation between endometriosis and various gynecological tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Endometriosis was tightly correlated with EMT and fibrosis mediated by inflammatory immunity, cytokines, estrogen, kinases and protooncogene through transcriptomics. Overall, our findings lay the groundwork for understanding the pathogenesis of endometriosis and its relationship with malignant transformation.

FLI1 and FRA1 transcription factors drive the transcriptional regulatory networks characterizing muscle invasive bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is mostly present in the form of urothelium carcinoma, causing over 150,000 deaths each year. Its histopathological classification as muscle invasive (MIBC) and non-muscle invasive (NMIBC) is the most prominent aspect, affecting the prognosis and progression of this disease. In this study, we defined the active regulatory landscape of MIBC and NMIBC cell lines using H3K27ac ChIP-seq and used an integrative approach to combine our findings with existing data. Our analysis revealed FRA1 and FLI1 as two critical transcription factors differentially regulating MIBC regulatory landscape. We show that FRA1 and FLI1 regulate the genes involved in epithelial cell migration and cell junction organization. Knock-down of FRA1 and FLI1 in MIBC revealed the downregulation of several EMT-related genes such as MAP4K4 and FLOT1. Further, ChIP-SICAP performed for FRA1 and FLI1 enabled us to infer chromatin binding partners of these transcription factors and link this information with their target genes. Finally, we show that knock-down of FRA1 and FLI1 result in significant reduction of invasion capacity of MIBC cells towards muscle microenvironment using IC-CHIP assays. Our results collectively highlight the role of these transcription factors in selection and design of targeted options for treatment of MIBC.

Single-cell transcriptomic profile of satellite glial cells in trigeminal ganglion

Satellite glial cells (SGCs) play an important role in regulating the function of trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons. Multiple mediators are involved in the bidirectional communication between SGCs and neurons in different physiological and pathological states. However, molecular insights into the transcript characteristics of SGCs are limited. Moreover, little is known about the heterogeneity of SGCs in TG, and a more in-depth understanding of the interactions between SGCs and neuron subtypes is needed. Here we show the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) profile of SGCs in TG under physiological conditions. Our results demonstrate TG includes nine types of cell clusters, such as neurons, SGCs, myeloid Schwann cells (mSCs), non-myeloid Schwann cells (nmSCs), immune cells, etc., and the corresponding markers are also presented. We reveal the signature gene expression of SGCs, mSCs and nmSCs in the TG, and analyze the ligand-receptor pairs between neuron subtypes and SGCs in the TG. In the heterogeneity analysis of SGCs, four SGCs subtypes are identified, including subtypes enriched for genes associated with extracellular matrix organization, immediate early genes, interferon beta, and cell adhesion molecules, respectively. Our data suggest the molecular characteristics, heterogeneity of SGCs, and bidirectional interactions between SGCs and neurons, providing a valuable resource for studying SGCs in the TG.

Nobiletin inhibits breast cancer cell migration and invasion by suppressing the IL-6-induced ERK-STAT and JNK-c-JUN pathways

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, affecting more than 2 million women worldwide annually. However, effective treatments for breast cancer are limited. Nobiletin is a flavonoid present in the dried mature pericarp of mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco), which is used to prepare Citri Renetulatae Pericarpium and can inhibit tumour growth and progression according to modern pharmacological studies. However, whether nobiletin exhibits an antimetastatic role in breast cancer and its potential mechanism need to be further investigated.

PURPOSE

This study aims to evaluate the inhibitory effect of nobiletin on breast cancer and to elucidate potential mechanisms against invasion and migration.

METHODS

Cell viability was determined by cell counting kit-8 and colony formation assays. Wound healing and Boyden chamber assays detected cancer cell migration and invasion capabilities. Immunoblotting and qPCR were applied to determine the protein and mRNA expression levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) and the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signalling pathways. Molecular docking was used to assess the degree of nobiletin binding to phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). Xenografts and liver metastases were constructed in BALB/c nude mice to evaluate the anticancer effect of nobiletin in vivo. H&E staining and immunohistochemistry were used to detect proliferation and the expression of related proteins.

RESULTS

Nobiletin induced cell death in a concentration- and time-dependent manner and possessed anti-invasion and anti-migration effects on MCF-7 and T47D cells by suppressing the interleukin-6-induced ERK and JNK signalling pathways. In addition, nobiletin docked with the binding site of PI3K, and the binding score was -8.0 kcal/mol. Furthermore, the inhibition of breast cancer growth and metastasis by nobiletin was demonstrated by constructing xenografts and liver metastases in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Nobiletin inhibited liver metastasis of breast cancer by downregulating the ERK-STAT and JNK-c-JUN pathways, and its safety and efficacy were verified, indicating the potential of nobiletin as an anticancer agent.

Low expression of the dynamic network markers FOS/JUN in pre-deteriorated epithelial cells is associated with the progression of colorectal adenoma to carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Deterioration of normal intestinal epithelial cells is crucial for colorectal tumorigenesis. However, the process of epithelial cell deterioration and molecular networks that contribute to this process remain unclear.

METHODS

Single-cell data and clinical information were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We used the recently proposed dynamic network biomarker (DNB) method to identify the critical stage of epithelial cell deterioration. Data analysis and visualization were performed using R and Cytoscape software. In addition, Single-Cell rEgulatory Network Inference and Clustering (SCENIC) analysis was used to identify potential transcription factors, and CellChat analysis was conducted to evaluate possible interactions among cell populations. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

The trajectory of epithelial cell deterioration in adenoma to carcinoma progression was delineated, and the subpopulation of pre-deteriorated epithelial cells during colorectal cancer (CRC) initialization was identified at the single-cell level. Additionally, FOS/JUN were identified as biomarkers for pre-deteriorated epithelial cell subpopulations in CRC. Notably, FOS/JUN triggered low expression of P53-regulated downstream pro-apoptotic genes and high expression of anti-apoptotic genes through suppression of P53 expression, which in turn inhibited P53-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, malignant epithelial cells contributed to the progression of pre-deteriorated epithelial cells through the GDF signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the trajectory of epithelial cell deterioration and used DNB to characterize pre-deteriorated epithelial cells at the single-cell level. The expression of DNB-neighboring genes and cellular communication were triggered by DNB genes, which may be involved in epithelial cell deterioration. The DNB genes FOS/JUN provide new insights into early intervention in CRC.

PHF5A facilitates the development and progression of gastric cancer through SKP2-mediated stabilization of FOS

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer death worldwide. Plant homeodomain (PHD)-finger domain protein PHF5A has been demonstrated to play a promoting role in a variety of cancers. This study aimed to clarify the role of PHF5A in the progression of GC and its potential mechanism of action.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical staining experiments were performed based on tissues from clinical GC patients to reveal PHF5A expression. A series of functional experiments in vitro and in vivo were used to clarify the role of PHF5A in GC.

RESULTS

Clinically, PHF5A was abundantly expressed in GC and existed clinical value indicating poor prognosis. In addition, GC cells with knockdown of PHF5A expression showed slowed proliferation, enhanced sensitivity to apoptosis and inhibition of migration. Mechanically, knockdown of PHF5A led to decreased protein stability of FOS, which was mediated ubiquitination of E3 ubiquitin ligase S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (SKP2). Moreover, downregulation of FOS attenuated the promotion of PHF5A overexpression on GC cells. Consistently, Pladienolide B (PHF5A inhibitor) treatment reversed the induction of PHF5A overexpression on the malignant phenotypes and tumor formation of GC cells.

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of PHF5A inhibited the progression of GC through SKP2-mediated ubiquitination of FOS, which may be a promising candidate target with potential therapeutic value.

Regulation of effector and memory CD8 + T cell differentiation: a focus on orphan nuclear receptor NR4A family, transcription factor, and metabolism

CD8 + T cells undergo rapid expansion followed by contraction and the development of memory cells after their receptors are activated. The development of immunological memory following acute infection is a complex phenomenon that involves several molecular, transcriptional, and metabolic mechanisms. As memory cells confer long-term protection and respond to secondary stimulation with strong effector function, understanding the mechanisms that influence their development is of great importance. Orphan nuclear receptors, NR4As, are immediate early genes that function as transcription factors and bind with the NBRE region of chromatin. Interestingly, the NBRE region of activated CD8 + T cells is highly accessible at the same time the expression of NR4As is induced. This suggests a potential role of NR4As in the early events post T cell activation that determines cell fate decisions. In this review, we will discuss the influence of NR4As on the differentiation of CD8 + T cells during the immune response to acute infection and the development of immunological memory. We will also discuss the signals, transcription factors, and metabolic mechanisms that control cell fate decisions. HIGHLIGHTS: Memory CD8 + T cells are an essential subset that mediates long-term protection after pathogen encounters. Some specific environmental cues, transcriptional factors, and metabolic pathways regulate the differentiation of CD8 + T cells and the development of memory cells. Orphan nuclear receptor NR4As are early genes that act as transcription factors and are highly expressed post-T cell receptor activation. NR4As influence the effector function and differentiation of CD8 + T cells and also control the development of immunological memory following acute infection.

Construction of ceRNA network and key gene screening in cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to construct an endogenous competition network for cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions using differential gene screening.

METHODS

GSE149763 was used to screen differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs to predict correlated microRNAs (miRNAs). The correlated miRNAs and GSE105409 were used to screen differentially expressed miRNAs for differential co-expression analysis, and the co-expressed differentially expressed miRNAs were used to predict correlated mRNAs. Differentially expressed mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs were visualized, and differential gene screening, enrichment, and pathway analysis were performed.

RESULTS

The ceRNA network of cervical squamous intraepithelial was successfully established and a potential differentially expressed network was identified. The key genes were VEGFA and FOS, and the key pathway was the MAPK signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The differential expression and potential effects of the lncRNA BACH1-IT1/miR-140-5p/VEGFA axis, key genes, VEGFA and FOS, and MAPK signaling in CIN were clarified, and the occurrence and potential effects of CIN were further clarified. The underlying molecular mechanism provides a certain degree of reference for subsequent treatments and experimental research.

Molecular profile of the NF-κB signalling pathway in human colorectal cancer

The development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) have been associated with inflammation processes that involve the overactivation of the NF-κB signalling pathway. The characterization of the NF-κB expression profile in CRC is an important topic since the suppression of NF-κB represents a potential therapeutic approach. In this study, we assessed the expression levels of 84 NF-κB-related genes in paired tumoral (T) and peritumoral (PT) tissues from 18 CRC patients and 18 normal colonic mucosae, and the expression levels of three miRNAs targeting the most dysregulated genes revealed by the case-control analysis. Comparing the gene expression profile of T and controls, 60 genes were dysregulated. The comparison of T and PT revealed 17 dysregulated genes in the tumoral tissues, with IL1B, CXCL8, IL1A, and CSF2 being the most upregulated. Notably, through a bioinformatics analysis, the differential gene expression of 11 out of the 17 genes was validated on a larger cohort of 308 CRC patients compared with 41 controls. Moreover, a decrease in the levels of RELA, NOD1, CASP8, BCL2L1, ELK1, and IKBKB was identified in poorly differentiated tumours compared to moderately differentiated tumours. The analysis of the three miRNAs targeting IL1B, CXCL8, IL1A, and CSF2 showed that miR-182-5p was upregulated in T compared with PT, whereas miR-10b-5p was downregulated in T compared with PT and control tissues. Our results may contribute to the design of new experimental therapeutic strategies based on endogenous molecules, such as miRNAs, to target the genetic key players of the NF- κB pathway.

Heat Shock Transcription Factor 2 Is Significantly Involved in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Cancer, Male Infertility, and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: The Novel Mechanisms of Several Severe Diseases

HSF (heat shock transcription factor or heat shock factor) was discovered as a transcription factor indispensable for heat shock response. Although four classical HSFs were discovered in mammals and two major HSFs, HSF1 and HSF2, were cloned in the same year of 1991, only HSF1 was intensively studied because HSF1 can give rise to heat shock response through the induction of various HSPs' expression. On the other hand, HSF2 was not well studied for some time, which was probably due to an underestimate of HSF2 itself. Since the beginning of the 21st century, HSF2 research has progressed and many biologically significant functions of HSF2 have been revealed. For example, the roles of HSF2 in nervous system protection, inflammation, maintenance of mitosis and meiosis, and cancer cell survival and death have been gradually unveiled. However, we feel that the fact HSF2 has a relationship with various factors is not yet widely recognized; therefore, the biological significance of HSF2 has been underestimated. We strongly hope to widely communicate the significance of HSF2 to researchers and readers in broad research fields through this review. In addition, we also hope that many readers will have great interest in the molecular mechanism in which HSF2 acts as an active transcription factor and gene bookmarking mechanism of HSF2 during cell cycle progression, as is summarized in this review.

Expression and potential role of FOSB in glioma

Background

FOSB is reported to be an oncogene in a variety of tumors. However, the expression and role of FOSB in glioma remain obscure. In this study, we aimed to explore the expression of FOSB in glioma and its biological role in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Methods

Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were used to detect the expression of FOSB in clinical samples. FOSB was knocked down in cells to determine the effects of FOSB on the phenotypic changes of tumors by plate cloning, CCK-8 assay, and Transwell assay. Finally, subcutaneous tumorigenesis in nude mice was used to observe the tumorigenesis of glioma cell lines after the knockdown of the FOSB gene.

Results

FOSB expression was higher in glioma compared with normal brain tissue. After the downregulation of FOSB, the expression of cleaved caspase-3 increased. Plate cloning and CCK-8 experiments showed that the proliferation of glioma cell lines decreased. The Transwell assay demonstrated that the glioblastoma cell lines had lower migration ability after the knockdown of FOSB. Finally, the tumor volume of U87 glioma cells in group sh-FOSB was smaller than that in the control group. The TUNEL staining in vitro showed that the apoptosis of sh-FOSB glioma cells increased.

Conclusion

FOSB was highly expressed in glioma tissues. The viability of glioma cells decreased, and the ability of glioma cells to proliferate and migrate was reduced when FOSB was downregulated. Hence, FOSB may promote the development and migration of gliomas.

Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma: A misleading vascular tumor

Introduction

Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma (PHE) is a rare vascular soft tissue tumor of intermediate malignancy. The aim of this study was to present a rare case of PHE in the back and to review its clinicopathological features, therapeutic modalities, evolutionary aspects and prognosis.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 21-year-old man who consulted for a multinodular mass at the scapula level, that increased in size within 2 months. An excisional surgery was performed. Macroscopic examination showed ulcerated centimetric nodules with a crusty surface. Microscopic examination showed a multinodular proliferation arranged in clusters, made of spindle cells or epithelioid cells with variable atypia. Immunohistochemical study showed the expression ofAE1-AE3, ERG and INI-1. There was no staining for EMA, CD34, and CD-31. The diagnosis of PHE was retained.

Discussion

PHE affects young adult males and usually develops in the extremities. Clinically, more than half of the patients present with local recurrence. Distant metastases have also been reported. Microscopically, PHE resembles a myoid tumor or epithelioid sarcoma because of the abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and cell shape. Tumor cells express cytokeratin and inconsistently CD34 and CD31. Hence the need to complete the study of ERG and INI1 expression in all soft tissue epithelioid tumors. The translocation t(7;19)(q22; q13) as well as the expression of FOSB in immunohistochemistry allow to differentiate with epithelioid sarcoma. Surgery is the treatment option.

Conclusion

PHE is a confusing entity with several mesenchymal neoplasms that must be carefully differentiated. Data regarding age, sex, location, course, and recurrence are important for proper diagnosis.

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Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma is a rare vascular tumor.

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It can be misdiagnosed with several mesenchymal neoplasms, importantly an epithelioid sarcoma which prognosis is poor.

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Local recurrence and late metastasis can occur, so a strict follow-up is mandatory.

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Wide excision is the treatment option.

Involvement of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase I in the regulation of the expression of connexin 43 in MA-10 tumor Leydig cells

Connexin 43 (Cx43, also known as Gja1) is the most abundant testicular gap junction protein. It has a crucial role in the support of spermatogenesis by Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules as well as in androgen synthesis by Leydig cells. The multifunctional family of Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMK) is composed of CaMK I, II, and IV and each can serve as a mediator of nuclear Ca²⁺ signals. These kinases can control gene expression by phosphorylation of key regulatory sites on transcription factors. Among these, AP-1 members cFos and cJun are interesting candidates that seem to cooperate with CaMKs to regulate Cx43 expression in Leydig cells. In this study, the Cx43 promoter region important for CaMK-dependent activation is characterized using co-transfection of plasmid reporter-constructs with different plasmids coding for CaMKs and/or AP-1 members in MA-10 Leydig cells. Here we report that the activation of Cx43 expression by cFos and cJun is increased by CaMKI. Furthermore, results from chromatin immunoprecipitation suggest that the recruitment of AP-1 family members to the proximal region of the Cx43 promoter may involve another uncharacterized AP-1 DNA regulatory element and/or protein-protein interactions with other partners. Thus, our data provide new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanisms that control mouse Cx43 transcription in testicular Leydig cells.

Identification of key genes and mechanisms of epicardial adipose tissue in patients with diabetes through bioinformatic analysis

Background

In recent years, peri-organ fat has emerged as a diagnostic and therapeutic target in metabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) transcriptome expression differences between diabetic and non-diabetic participants and explored the possible mechanisms using various bioinformatic tools.

Methods

RNA-seq datasets GSE108971 and GSE179455 for EAT between diabetic and non-diabetic patients were obtained from the public functional genomics database Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the R package DESeq2, then Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were analyzed. Next, a PPI (protein–protein interaction) network was constructed, and hub genes were mined using STRING and Cytoscape. Additionally, CIBERSORT was used to analyze the immune cell infiltration, and key transcription factors were predicted based on ChEA3.

Results

By comparing EAT samples between diabetic and non-diabetic patients, a total of 238 DEGs were identified, including 161 upregulated genes and 77 downregulated genes. A total of 10 genes (IL-1β, CD274, PDCD1, ITGAX, PRDM1, LAG3, TNFRSF18, CCL20, IL1RN, and SPP1) were selected as hub genes. GO and KEGG analysis showed that DEGs were mainly enriched in the inflammatory response and cytokine activity. Immune cell infiltration analysis indicated that macrophage M2 and T cells CD4 memory resting accounted for the largest proportion of these immune cells. CSRNP1, RELB, NFKB2, SNAI1, and FOSB were detected as potential transcription factors.

Conclusion

Comprehensive bioinformatic analysis was used to compare the difference in EAT between diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Several hub genes, transcription factors, and immune cell infiltration were identified. Diabetic EAT is significantly different in the inflammatory response and cytokine activity. These findings may provide new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, as well as reduce potential cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients through EAT modification.

Inflammatory Lobular Hemangioma (T-cell Rich Angiomatoid Polypoid Pseudolymphoma) - Assessment of FOS/FOSB and Lymphoid Markers and Comparison with Epithelioid Hemangioma

BACKGROUND

T-cell rich angiomatoid polypoid pseudolymphoma (TRAPP) and inflammatory lobular hemangioma (ILH) encompass a spectrum of cutaneous vascular lesions in which a prominent lymphoplasmacytic component may impart a pattern highly reminiscent of low-grade cutaneous lymphoma (pseudolymphoma). Epithelioid hemangioma, including its most common variant angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia (ALHE), is a distinct entity associated with FOS and/or FOSB expression detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). These entities can show significant morphological overlap.

METHODS

We performed IHC for FOSB, FOS and lymphoid markers in a series of TRAPP/ILH and ALHE.

RESULTS

We identified 13 cases of ILH/TRAPP, which showed a predominance in CD8+ T cells (CD8>CD4: 11/13) while FOSB and FOS were expressed in 36% (4/11) and 27% (3/11) of cases, respectively. ALHE (n=9) showed a predominance in CD4+T cell (67%) with FOSB and FOS co-expression in 78% (7/9) of the cases.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated, based on FOS and/or FOSB immunohistochemical expression, that there is a possible link between ILH/TRAPP and epithelioid hemangioma / ALHE. The use of FOS and FOSB IHC in the routine diagnostic setting of cutaneous vascular lesions will help to redefine cases of ILH/TRAPP as a subset of these may represent inflammatory variants of epithelioid hemangioma.

Elevated expression of ADAP2 is associated with aggressive behavior of human clear-cell renal cell carcinoma and poor patient survival

BACKGROUND

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common and lethal cancer of the adult kidney. ADAP2 is a GTPase-activating protein was upregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The role of ADAP2 in ccRCC progression is unknown.

METHODS

ADAP2 expression in ccRCC cell lines and tissues was examined via real-time PCR, Western blot and IHC. MTS, colony formation and transwell assay to explore the role of ADAP2 in ccRCC. ADAP2 in growth and metastasis of ccRCC were evaluated in vivo through ccRCC xenograft tumor growth, lung metastatic mice model. The prognostic role of ADAP2 was evaluated by survival analysis.

RESULTS

ADAP2 mRNA was expressed at significantly higher levels in 23 pairs of ccRCC tissues than in normal kidney tissues (P < 0.01). Immunohistochemical analysis of 298 ccRCC tissues revealed elevated ADAP2 expression as an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for the overall survival (P = 0.0042) and progression-free survival (P = 0.0232) of patients. The KaplanMeier survival curve showed that patients with a higher expression of ADAP2 showed a significantly lower overall survival rate and disease-free survival rate. Moreover, high expression of ADAP2 at the mRNA level was associated with a worse prognosis for overall survival (P = 0.0083) in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort. In vivo and in vitro functional study showed that overexpression of ADAP2 promotes ccRCC cell proliferation and metastasis ability, whereas knockdown of ADAP2 inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion.

CONCLUSION

ADAP2 is a novel prognostic marker and could promotes tumor progression in ccRCC.

C-Myc Expression in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Molecular Mechanisms in Cell Survival and Cancer Progression

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represents 90% of malignant epithelial cancer that occurs in the oral cavity. The c-Myc factor is expressed in multiple types of cancer, comprising head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), where it plays a fundamental role in tumor prognosis and in the self-renewal of tumor stem cells. However, the role of c-Myc in controlling OSCC cells is not well-known. The aim of the present study is the evaluation of the biological roles and regulatory mechanism of c-Myc in the pathogenesis of OSCC. Results indicated that c-Myc, c-Jun, Bcl-2, hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), ERK 1/2 and pERK1/2 were overexpressed in a cellular model of squamous cell carcinoma, Cal-27. Doxorubicin (Doxo), a common chemotherapeutic agent, inhibited cell invasion, hypoxia, angiogenesis and inflammation in a cellular model of Cal-27 cells as indicated by downregulation of MMP-9, VEGF, ERK 1/2 and pERK 1/2 as well as promoted apoptosis as evidenced by the downregulation of Bcl-2 protein. This work aimed at underlying the functional relevance of c-Myc in OSCC and the HIF-Myc collaboration by integrating the knowledge on this molecular link in an OSCC tumor microenvironment. The results obtained showed for the first time the vital role of c-Myc in Cal-27 in cell survival/proliferation and tumor growth as well as the negative regulatory effect of Doxo against c-Myc signaling pathway.

A deletion variant within the FGF5 gene in goats is associated with gene expression levels and cashmere growth

The FGF5 gene has been associated with the regulation of fibre length in mammals, including cashmere goats. A deletion variant at ~14 kb downstream of the FGF5 gene showed significant divergence between cashmere and non-cashmere goats in previous studies. In this study, we designed specific primers to genotype the deletion variant. The results of gel electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing revealed that a 507-bp deletion mutation is located at 95 454 685-95 455 191 of chromosome 6 in goats. Genotyping data from a large panel of 288 goats showed that the deletion at the FGF5 gene locus appeared to be associated with cashmere length. The deletion variant was close to fixation (frequency 0.97) in cashmere goats. Furthermore, electrophoretic mobility shift assays for evaluating DNA-protein interaction and mRNA expression levels of FGF5 suggested that the deletion variant may serve as a cis-acting element by specifically binding transcription factors to mediate quantitative changes in FGF5 mRNA expression. Our study illustrates how a structural mutation of the FGF5 gene has contributed to the cashmere growth phenotype in domestic goats. The deletion mutation within the FGF5 gene could potentially serve as a molecular marker of cashmere growth in cashmere goat breeding.

Immunohistochemistry for FOSB and FOS is a Useful Ancillary Tool in the Diagnosis of Epithelioid Hemangioma but There are Pitfalls in Interpretation Including Expression in Other Vascular Lesions

Introduction: Epithelioid hemangioma is a benign vascular neoplasm associated with FOS and/or FOSB protein overexpression detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Methods: The aim of our study was to determine the co-expression or independent IHC expression of FOS and FOSB in a cohort of epithelioid hemangiomas. We also included two cohorts of other vascular lesions: papillary endothelial hyperplasia and lobular capillary hemangioma / pyogenic granuloma. Results: We identified 50 cases of epithelioid hemangioma, 84% of which were cutaneous and the remaining involved other anatomic locations. Over two thirds of all cases expressed FOSB (68%; 34/50) while FOS immunoreactivity was identified in 46% of all cases. Co-expression of FOSB and FOS occurred in 37% of cases while 76% of all cases stained for at least one of the antibodies. Fifty-eight percent (n = 14/24) and 33% (8/24) of all cases of papillary endothelial hyperplasia expressed FOS and FOSB, respectively. Thirty-two per cent of lobular capillary hemangiomas (n = 8/25) were positive for either FOS or FOSB. Conclusion: In summary, we present the largest cohort of epithelioid hemangiomas assessed with both FOS and FOSB and demonstrated that the use of both antibodies increases the detection rate of these proliferations by 10%. Nonetheless, the use of thresholds may not be appropriate, as only a subset of lesional endothelial cells label with FOS/FOSB. Over half of all cases of papillary endothelial hyperplasia and a third of lobular capillary hemangiomas also displayed immunoreactivity with FOS and/or FOSB.

Functional characterization and clinical significance of super-enhancers in lung adenocarcinoma

Super-enhancers (SEs) are important transcriptional regulators in tumorigenesis; however, the functional characterization and clinical significance of SEs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain unclear. By using H3K27ac ChIP-seq data of two LUAD cell lines and eight lung tissues, we detected 1045 cancer-specific and 5032 normal-specific SEs. Compared to normal-specific SEs, cancer-specific SEs have different regulatory mechanisms where associated target genes were enriched in critical tumor-related pathways and tended to be regulated by transcription factors of Fos Proto-Oncogene, AP-1 Transcription Factor Subunit and Jun Proto-Oncogene, AP-1 Transcription Factor Subunit families. By using expression data of 513 LUAD and 57 adjacent samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas and 80 tumor-normal paired LUAD samples from the Nanjing Lung Cancer Cohort study, we performed differential expression analysis of target genes for SEs and defined 243 crucial SEs. Unsupervised clustering of crucial SEs revealed two subtypes with different levels of genomic aberrations (i.e., mutation and copy number alteration) and clinical outcomes (progression-free interval: p = 0.030; disease-free interval: p = 0.047). In addition, patients with adverse clinical outcomes were more sensitive to three small molecule inhibitors (bortezomib, doxorubicin, and etoposide), and their targets (PSMB5 and TOP2A) also have elevated expression levels among these patients. Taken together, our findings provided a comprehensive characterization of SEs in LUAD and emphasized their clinical significance in LUAD therapy.

A Long-Lasting PARP1-Activation Mediates Signal-Induced Gene Expression

This overview presents recent evidence for a long-lasting PARP1 activation by a variety of signal transduction mechanisms, mediating signal-induced gene expression and chromatin remodeling. This mode of PARP1 activation has been reported in a variety of cell types, under physiological conditions. In this mechanism, PARP1 is not transiently activated by binding to DNA breaks. Moreover, damaged DNA interfered with this long-lasting PARP1 activation.