The Role and Function of Ras-association domain family in Cancer: A Review

Probing the Electrostatic Effects of H-Ras Tyrosine 32 Mutations on Intrinsic GTP Hydrolysis Using Vibrational Stark Effect Spectroscopy of a Thiocyanate Probe

The wildtype H-Ras protein functions as a molecular switch in a variety of cell signaling pathways, and mutations to key residues result in a constitutively active oncoprotein. However, there is some debate regarding the mechanism of the intrinsic GTPase activity of H-Ras. It has been hypothesized that ordered water molecules are coordinated at the active site by Q61, a highly transforming amino acid site, and Y32, a position that has not previously been investigated. Here, we examine the electrostatic contribution of the Y32 position to GTP hydrolysis by comparing the rate of GTP hydrolysis of Y32X mutants to the vibrational energy shift of each mutation measured by a nearby thiocyanate vibrational probe to estimate changes in the electrostatic environment caused by changes at the Y32 position. We further compared vibrational energy shifts for each mutation to the hydration potential of the respective side chain and demonstrated that Y32 is less critical for recruiting water molecules into the active site to promote hydrolysis than Q61. Our results show a clear interplay between a steric contribution from Y32 and an electrostatic contribution from Q61 that are both critical for intrinsic GTP hydrolysis.

Therapeutic targeting of DNA methylation alterations in cancer

DNA methylation is a critical component of gene regulation and plays an important role in the development of cancer. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes and silencing of DNA repair pathways facilitate uncontrolled cell growth and synergize with oncogenic mutations to perpetuate cancer phenotypes. Additionally, aberrant DNA methylation hinders immune responses crucial for antitumor immunity. Thus, inhibiting dysregulated DNA methylation is a promising cancer therapy. Pharmacologic inhibition of DNA methylation reactivates silenced tumor suppressors and bolster immune responses through induction of viral mimicry. Now, with the advent of immunotherapies and discovery of the immune-modulatory effects of DNA methylation inhibitors, there is great interest in understanding how targeting DNA methylation in combination with other therapies can enhance antitumor immunity. Here, we describe the role of aberrant DNA methylation in cancer and mechanisms by which it promotes tumorigenesis and modulates immune responses. Finally, we review the initial discoveries and ongoing efforts to target DNA methylation as a cancer therapeutic.

Exploring the DNA Methylation Profile of Genes Associated with Bladder Cancer in Bladder Tissue of Patients with Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

DNA methylation is an epigenetic process that commonly occurs in genes' promoters and results in the transcriptional silencing of genes. DNA methylation is a frequent event in bladder cancer, participating in tumor initiation and progression. Bladder cancer is a major health issue in patients suffering from neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD), although the pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease remain unclear. In this population, bladder cancer is characterized by aggressive histopathology, advanced stage during diagnosis, and high mortality rates. To assess the DNA methylation profiles of five genes' promoters previously known to be associated with bladder cancer in bladder tissue of NLUTD patients, we conducted a prospective study recruiting NLUTD patients from the neuro-urology unit of a public teaching hospital. Cystoscopy combined with biopsy for bladder cancer screening was performed in all patients following written informed consent being obtained. Quantitative methylation-specific PCR was used to determine the methylation status of RASSF1, RARβ, DAPK, hTERT, and APC genes' promoters in bladder tissue samples. Twenty-four patients suffering from mixed NLUTD etiology for a median duration of 10 (IQR: 12) years were recruited in this study. DNA hypermethylation was detected in at least one gene of the panel in all tissue samples. RAR-β was hypermethylated in 91.7% samples, RASSF and DAPK were hypermethylated in 83.3% samples, APC 37.5% samples, and TERT in none of the tissue samples. In 45.8% of the samples, three genes of the panel were hypermethylated, in 29.2% four genes were hypermethylated, and in 16.7% and in 8.3% of the samples, two and one gene were hypermethylated, respectively. The number of hypermethylated genes of the panel was significantly associated with recurrent UTIs (p = 0.0048). No other significant association was found between DNA hypermethylation or the number of hypermethylated genes and the clinical characteristics of the patients. Histopathological findings were normal in 8.3% of patients, while chronic inflammation was found in 83.3% of patients and squamous cell metaplasia in 16.7% of patients. In this study, we observed high rates of DNA hypermethylation of genes associated with bladder cancer in NLUTD patients, suggesting an epigenetic field effect and possible risk of bladder cancer development. Recurrent UTIs seem to be associated with increased DNA hypermethylation. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of recurrent UTIs and chronic inflammation in DNA hypermethylation and bladder cancer etiopathogenesis in NLUTD patients.

Ginger polysaccharide alleviates the effects of acute exposure to carbonate in crucian carp (Carassius auratus) by regulating immunity, intestinal microbiota, and intestinal metabolism

Alkaline stress poses a significant challenge to the healthy growth of fish. Ginger polysaccharide (GP) is one of the main active substances in ginger and has pharmacological effects, such as anti-oxidation and immune regulation. However, the physiological regulatory mechanism of GP addition to diet on alkalinity stress in crucian carp remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of dietary GP on antioxidant capacity, gene expression levels, intestinal microbiome, and metabolomics of crucian carp exposed to carbonate (NaHCO3). The CK group (no GP supplementation) and COG group (NaHCO3 stress and no GP supplementation) were set up. The GPCS group (NaHCO3 stress and 0.4% GP supplementation) was stressed for seven days. Based on these data, GP significantly increased the activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), acid phosphatase (ACP), and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) in carp under alkalinity stress (p < 0.05) and decreased the activity of malon dialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05). GP restored the activity of GSH-PX, ACP, and AKP to CK levels. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor β (TGF-β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and interleukin 8 (IL-8) genes were decreased, and the expression levels of determination factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) genes were increased (p < 0.05). Based on 16 S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, GP improved the changes in the intestinal microbial diversity and structural composition of crucian carp caused by NaHCO3 exposure. In particular, GP increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes and decreased the relative abundance of Actinobacteria. The metabolic response of GP to NaHCO3 exposed crucian carp guts was studied using LC/MS. Compared to the COG group, the GPCS group had 64 different metabolites and enriched 10 metabolic pathways, including lipid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism. The addition of GP to feed can promote galactose metabolism and provide an energy supply to crucian carp, thus alleviating the damage induced by alkalinity stress. In conclusion, GP can mitigate the effects of NaHCO3 alkalinity stress by regulating immune function, intestinal flora, and intestinal metabolism in crucian carp. These findings provide a novel idea for studying the mechanism of salt-alkali tolerance in crucian carp by adding GP to feed.

Plasma Proteomic Signature of Endometrial Cancer in Patients with Diabetes

The incidence and mortality of endometrial cancer (EC) have increased in recent years. There is mounting evidence that diabetes may play a role in the greater incidence of EC. The molecular mechanisms of the interaction between type 2 diabetes and EC are not yet clearly understood yet. The present study was undertaken to investigate the plasma proteomics of EC patients with diabetes in comparison to those of EC patients without diabetes. Plasma samples were obtained from age-matched patients (EC diabetic and EC nondiabetic). Untargeted proteomic analysis was carried out using a two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Of the 33 proteins identified, which significantly differed in the plasma abundance between groups, 17 were upregulated and 16 were downregulated. The majority of the altered proteins are involved in the acute phase reaction, cholesterol metabolism, scavenging of heme from plasma, and plasma lipoprotein assembly and mobilization. α-2-macroglobulin, Ras association domain-containing protein 3, apolipoprotein A-I, α-1B-glycoprotein, and zinc-α-2-glycoprotein were significantly upregulated. The significantly downregulated proteins included haptoglobin, apolipoprotein A-IV, hemopexin, and α-1-antichymotrypsin. The differential expression of proteins found in patients who had EC and diabetes indicated severe disease and a poor prognosis. The protein interaction analysis showed dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism and heme scavenging pathways in these patients.

Identifying potential ferroptosis key genes for diagnosis and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis through competitive endogenous RNA network analysis

Objective

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common systemic metabolic bone disorder that is owing to the reduced estrogen secretion and imbalance of bone absorption and bone formation in postmenopausal women. Ferroptosis has been identified as a novel modulatory mechanism of osteoporosis. Nevertheless, the particular modulatory mechanism between ferroptosis and PMOP is still unclear. The objective of the current investigation was to detect potential biomarkers connected to ferroptosis in PMOP and discover its probable mechanism through bioinformatics.

Methods

We downloaded PMOP-related microarray datasets from the database of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and obtained the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Utilizing bioinformatics analysis, the DEGs were intersected with the ferroptosis dataset to obtain ferroptosis-connected mRNAs. Enrichment analysis employing KOBAS 3.0 was conducted to comprehend the biological functions and enrichment pathways of the DEGs. The generation of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was conducted with the aim of identifying central genes. Lastly, the coexpression and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were built using Cytoscape. With the help of external datasets GSE56815 to verify the reliability of the hub genes by plotting ROC curves.

Results

We identified 178 DE microRNAs (miRNAs), 138 DE circular RNAs (circRNAs), and 86 ferroptosis-related mRNAs. Enrichment analysis exhibited that mRNAs were primarily connected with the signaling pathways of PI3K/Akt, metabolism, mTOR, FoxO, HIF-1, AMPK, MAPK, ferroptosis, VEGF, and NOD-like receptors. Generation of the PPI network detected eight hub genes. The circRNA/miR-23b-3p/PTEN axis may relieve PMOP by inhibiting ferroptosis through targeting the pathway of PI3K/Akt signaling, which is a vital modulatory pathway for PMOP progression. Moreover, the ROC curves ultimately indicates that the four hub genes have greater diagnostic importance in PMOP samples in contrast to the normal group samples, which may be possible markers for PMOP diagnosis.

Conclusions

Bioinformatics analysis identified four hub genes, namely, PTEN, SIRT1, VEGFA, and KRAS, as potential biomarkers for PMOP diagnosis and management. Moreover, the circRNA/miR-23b-3p/PTEN axis may relieve PMOP by suppressing ferroptosis through targeting the pathway of PI3K/Akt signaling, providing a new avenue to explore the pathogenesis of PMOP.

RGD-p21Ras-scFv expressed prokaryotically on a pilot scale inhibits ras-driven colorectal cancer growth by blocking p21Ras-GTP

BACKGROUND

Ras gene mutation and/or overexpression are drivers in the progression of cancers, including colorectal cancer. Blocking the Ras signaling has become a significant strategy for cancer therapy. Previously, we constructed a recombinant scFv, RGD-p21Ras-scFv by linking RGD membrane-penetrating peptide gene with the anti-p21Ras scFv gene. Here, we expressed prokaryotically RGD-p21Ras-scFv on a pilot scale, then investigated the anti-tumor effect and the mechanism of blocking Ras signaling.

METHODS

The E. coli bacteria which could highly express RGD-p21Ras-scFv was screened and grown in 100 L fermentation tank to produce RGD-p21Ras-scFv on optimized induced expression conditions. The scFv was purified from E. coli bacteria using His Ni-NTA column. ELISA was adopted to test the immunoreactivity of RGD-p21Ras-scFv against p21Ras proteins, and the IC50 of RGD-p21Ras-scFv was analyzed by CCK-8. Immunofluorescence colocalization and pull-down assays were used to determine the localization and binding between RGD-p21Ras-scFv and p21Ras. The interaction forces between RGD-p21Ras-scFv and p21Ras after binding were analyzed by molecular docking, and the stability after binding was determined by molecular dynamics simulations. p21Ras-GTP interaction was detected by Ras pull-down. Changes in the MEK-ERK /PI3K-AKT signaling paths downstream of Ras were detected by WB assays. The anti-tumor activity of RGD-p21Ras-scFv was investigated by nude mouse xenograft models.

RESULTS

The technique of RGD-p21Ras-scFv expression on a pilot scale was established. The wet weight of the harvested bacteria was 31.064 g/L, and 31.6 mg RGD-p21Ras-scFv was obtained from 1 L of bacterial medium. The purity of the recombinant antibody was above 85%, we found that the prepared on a pilot scale RGD-p21Ras-scFv could penetrate the cell membrane of colon cancer cells and bind to p21Ras, then led to reduce of p21Ras-GTP (active p21Ras). The phosphorylation of downstream effectors MEK-ERK /PI3K-AKT was downregulated. In vivo antitumor activity assays showed that the RGD-p21Ras-scFv inhibited the proliferation of colorectal cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSION

RGD-p21Ras-scFv prokaryotic expressed on pilot-scale could inhibited Ras-driven colorectal cancer growth by partially blocking p21Ras-GTP and might be able to be a hidden therapeutic antibody for treating RAS-driven tumors.

Analysis of genetic biomarkers, polymorphisms in ADME-related genes and their impact on pharmacotherapy for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a non-cutaneous malignancy in males with wide variation in incidence rates across the globe. It is the second most reported cause of cancer death. Its etiology may have been linked to genetic polymorphisms, which are not only dominating cause of malignancy casualties but also exerts significant effects on pharmacotherapy outcomes. Although many therapeutic options are available, but suitable candidates identified by useful biomarkers can exhibit maximum therapeutic efficacy. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reported in androgen receptor signaling genes influence the effectiveness of androgen receptor pathway inhibitors and androgen deprivation therapy. Furthermore, SNPs located in genes involved in transport, drug metabolism, and efflux pumps also influence the efficacy of pharmacotherapy. Hence, SNPs biomarkers provide the basis for individualized pharmacotherapy. The pharmacotherapeutic options for PCa include hormonal therapy, chemotherapy (Docetaxel, Mitoxantrone, Cabazitaxel, and Estramustine, etc.), and radiotherapy. Here, we overview the impact of SNPs reported in various genes on the pharmacotherapy for PCa and evaluate current genetic biomarkers with an emphasis on early diagnosis and individualized treatment strategy in PCa.

Role of NF-κB pathway in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma and its potential therapeutic implications

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), a common malignant tumor of the urinary system, is the most aggressive renal tumor subtype. Since the discovery of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in 1986, many studies have demonstrated abnormal NF-κB signaling is associated with the development of various cancers, including kidney renal clear cell carcinoma. In this study, the relationship between NF-κB and kidney renal clear cell carcinoma was confirmed using bioinformatics analysis. First, we explored the differential expression of copy number variation (CNV), single nucleotide variant (SNV), and messenger RNA (mRNA) in NF-κB-related genes in different types of cancer, as well as the impact on cancer prognosis and sensitivity to common chemotherapy drugs. Then, we divided the mRNA expression levels of NF-κB-related genes in KIRC patients into three groups through GSVA cluster analysis and explored the correlation between the NF-κB pathway and clinical data of KIRC patients, classical cancer-related genes, common anticancer drug responsiveness, and immune cell infiltration. Finally, 11 tumor-related genes were screened using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression to construct a prognostic model. In addition, we used the UALCAN and HPA databases to verify the protein levels of three key NF-κB-related genes (CHUK, IKGGB, and IKBKG) in KIRC. In conclusion, our study established a prognostic survival model based on NF-κB-related genes, which can be used to predict the prognosis of patients with KIRC.

A Study of DNA Methylation of Bladder Cancer Biomarkers in the Urine of Patients with Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

Background: Bladder cancer (BCa) in patients suffering from neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is a significant concern due to its advanced stage at diagnosis and high mortality rate. Currently, there is a scarcity of specific guidelines for BCa screening in these patients. The development of urine biomarkers for BCa seems to be an attractive non-invasive method of screening or risk stratification in this patient population. DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification, resulting in the transcriptional silencing of tumor suppression genes, that is frequently detected in the urine of BCa patients. Objectives: We aimed to investigate DNA hypermethylation in five gene promoters, previously associated with BCa, in the urine of NLUTD patients, and in comparison with healthy controls. Design, setting and participants: This was a prospective case-control study that recruited neurourology outpatients from a public teaching hospital who had suffered from NLUTD for at least 5 years. They all underwent cystoscopy combined with biopsy for BCa screening following written informed consent. DNA was extracted and DNA methylation was assessed for the RASSF1, RARβ, DAPK, TERT and APC gene promoters via quantitative methylation-specific PCR in urine specimens from the patients and controls. Results: Forty-one patients of mixed NLUTD etiology and 35 controls were enrolled. DNA was detected in 36 patients' urine specimens and in those of 22 controls. In the urine specimens, DNA was hypermethylated in at least one of five gene promoters in 17/36 patients and in 3/22 controls (47.22% vs. 13.64%, respectively, p = 0.009). RASSF1 was hypermethylated in 10/17 (58.82%) specimens with detected methylation, APC in 7/17 (41.18%), DAPK in 4/17 (23.53%), RAR-β2 in 3/17 (17.56%) and TERT in none. According to a multivariate logistic regression analysis, NLUTD and male gender were significantly associated with hypermethylation (OR = 7.43, p = 0.007 and OR = 4.21; p = 0.04, respectively). In the tissue specimens, histology revealed TaLG BCa in two patients and urothelial squamous metaplasia in five patients. Chronic bladder inflammation was present in 35/41 bladder biopsies. Conclusions: DNA hypermethylation in a panel of five BCa-associated genes in the urine was significantly more frequent in NLUTD patients than in the controls. Our results warrant further evaluation in longitudinal studies assessing the clinical implications and possible associations between DNA hypermethylation, chronic inflammation and BCa in the NLUTD population.

Setting sail: Maneuvering SHP2 activity and its effects in cancer

Since the discovery of tyrosine phosphorylation being a critical modulator of cancer signaling, proteins regulating phosphotyrosine levels in cells have fast become targets of therapeutic intervention. The nonreceptor protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) coded by the PTPN11 gene "SHP2" integrates phosphotyrosine signaling from growth factor receptors into the RAS/RAF/ERK pathway and is centrally positioned in processes regulating cell development and oncogenic transformation. Dysregulation of SHP2 expression or activity is linked to tumorigenesis and developmental defects. Even as a compelling anti-cancer target, SHP2 was considered "undruggable" for a long time owing to its conserved catalytic PTP domain that evaded drug development. Recently, SHP2 has risen from the "undruggable curse" with the discovery of small molecules that manipulate its intrinsic allostery for effective inhibition. SHP2's unique domain arrangement and conformation(s) allow for a truly novel paradigm of inhibitor development relying on skillful targeting of noncatalytic sites on proteins. In this review we summarize the biological functions, signaling properties, structural attributes, allostery and inhibitors of SHP2.

Targeting epithelial cell-derived TWIST1 alleviates allergic asthma

It is well known that the T Helper (Th)2 bias plays a critical role in allergic asthma. Whereas the Th2 bias is maintained in the local tissues is uncertain. IL-33 is vital for the development of the Th2 polarization. TWIST-1 has an effect on regulating cellular functions. The aberrant activation of RAS sustains certain cellular activities. The aim of this study is to study the role of the interaction between activation of TWIST1 and RAS in inducing and maintaining Th2 polarization in allergic asthma. The epithelial cells of the airways (AEC) were isolated from the broncho-alveolar lavage fluids in patients with asthma. The mediators involved in the over-expression of IL-33 were determined by RNA sequencing. A mouse model was established to test the role of TWIST1 and RAS in developing allergic asthma. We observed a strong expression of TWIST1 in patients with allergic asthma that showed a positive correlation with asthmatic responses. TWIST1 favored the expression of the IL-33 in the AEC. Twist1-deficient AEC-carrying mice did not induce Th2 polarization in the airways. The expression TWIST1 in AECs was positively associated with RAS activation in AECs in patients with allergic asthma. The interaction between RAS and TWIST1 in AECs sustained airway allergic inflammation. Inhibition of TWIST1 or RAS prevented asthma-like inflammation in the mouse airways. In summary, the interaction between TWIST1 and RAS induces and maintains IL-33 expression in AECs to facilitate allergic inflammation in the respiratory tract. Inhibition of TWIST1 or RAS can prevent experimental allergic asthma.

Identification of MYEOV-Associated Gene Network as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Pancreatic Cancer

The molecular mechanism that promotes pancreatic cancer remains unclear, so it is important to find the molecular network of important genes related to pancreatic cancer. To find the key molecule of pancreatic cancer, differential gene expression analyses were analyzed by the Deseq2 package, edgeR package, and limma-voom package, respectively. Pancreatic cancer survival-related genes were analyzed by COX survival analysis. Finally, we integrated the results to obtain the significantly differentially expressed gene, MYEOV (myeloma overexpressed gene), most strongly related to survival in pancreatic cancer. Experimental verification by qRT-PCR confirmed that transcription levels of MYEOV mRNA markedly increased in pancreatic cancer cells relative to normal human pancreatic ductal epithelial cells (HPDE). Through the comprehensive analysis of multiple databases, we constructed a molecular network centered on MYEOV and found specific links between molecules in this network and tumor-associated immune cells. It was noted that MYEOV could serve as a ceRNA by producing molecular sponging effects on hsa-miR-103a-3p and hsa-miR-107, thus affecting the role of GPRC5A, SERPINB5, EGFR, KRAS, EIF4G2, and PDCD4 on pancreatic cancer progression. Besides, we also identified that infiltrated immune cells are potential mediators for the molecules in the MYEOV-related network to promote pancreatic cancer progression. It is the first report to focus on the possibility that MYEOV may act as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to form an interactive network with some pancreatic cancer-related genes such as KRAS and serve as a key therapeutic target of pancreatic cancer treatment.

The use of adenoviral vectors in gene therapy and vaccine approaches

Adenovirus was first identified in the 1950s and since then this pathogenic group of viruses has been explored and transformed into a genetic transfer vehicle. Modification or deletion of few genes are necessary to transform it into a conditionally or non-replicative vector, creating a versatile tool capable of transducing different tissues and inducing high levels of transgene expression. In the early years of vector development, the application in monogenic diseases faced several hurdles, including short-term gene expression and even a fatality. On the other hand, an adenoviral delivery strategy for treatment of cancer was the first approved gene therapy product. There is an increasing interest in expressing transgenes with therapeutic potential targeting the cancer hallmarks, inhibiting metastasis, inducing cancer cell death or modulating the immune system to attack the tumor cells. Replicative adenovirus as vaccines may be even older and date to a few years of its discovery, application of non-replicative adenovirus for vaccination against different microorganisms has been investigated, but only recently, it demonstrated its full potential being one of the leading vaccination tools for COVID-19. This is not a new vector nor a new technology, but the result of decades of careful and intense work in this field.

Adagrasib, a KRAS G12C inhibitor, reverses the multidrug resistance mediated by ABCB1 in vitro and in vivo

Background

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a complex phenomenon that frequently leads to chemotherapy failure during cancer treatment. The overexpression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters represents the major mechanism contributing to MDR. To date, no effective MDR modulator has been applied in clinic. Adagrasib (MRTX849), a specific inhibitor targeting KRAS G12C mutant, is currently under investigation in clinical trials for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study focused on investigating the circumvention of MDR by MRTX849.

Methods

The cytotoxicity and MDR reversal effect of MRTX849 were assessed by MTT assay. Drug accumulation and drug efflux were evaluated by flow cytometry. The MDR reversal by MRTX849 in vivo was investigated in two ABCB1-overexpressing tumor xenograft models in nude mice. The interaction between MRTX849 and ABCB1 substrate binding sites was studied by the [125I]-IAAP-photoaffinity labeling assay. The vanadate-sensitive ATPase assay was performed to identify whether MRTX849 would change ABCB1 ATPase activity. The effect of MRTX849 on expression of ABCB1 and PI3K/AKT signaling molecules was examined by flow cytometry, Western blot and Quantitative Real-time PCR analyses.

Results

MRTX849 was shown to enhance the anticancer efficacy of ABCB1 substrate drugs in the transporter-overexpressing cells both in vitro and in vivo. The MDR reversal effect was specific against ABCB1 because no similar effect was observed in the parental sensitive cells or in ABCG2-mediated MDR cells. Mechanistically, MRTX849 increased the cellular accumulation of ABCB1 substrates including doxorubicin (Dox) and rhodamine 123 (Rho123) in ABCB1-overexpressing MDR cells by suppressing ABCB1 efflux activity. Additionally, MRTX849 stimulated ABCB1 ATPase activity and competed with [125I]-IAAP for photolabeling of ABCB1 in a concentration-dependent manner. However, MRTX849 did not alter ABCB1 expression or phosphorylation of AKT/ERK at the effective MDR reversal drug concentrations.

Conclusions

In summary, MRTX849 was found to overcome ABCB1-mediated MDR both in vitro and in vivo by specifically attenuating ABCB1 efflux activity in drug-resistant cancer cells. Further studies are warranted to translate the combination of MRTX849 and conventional chemotherapy to clinical application for circumvention of MDR.

Expression and prognosis analysis of PAQR5 in kidney cancer

Progestin and adipoQ receptor 5 (PAQR5) affects the development of various malignancies and is specifically expressed in kidney. However, the role of PAQR5 in renal carcinoma remains unclear. We assessed the state of PAQR5 expression in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) by The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus datasets. Moreover, immunohistochemistry was performed to observe the expressions of PAQR5 protein in tumor tissues. The relationships between PAQR5 expression and clinical characteristics were investigated by UALCAN. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and Kaplan–Meier plotter were used to analyze the effect of PAQR5 expression levels on overall survival and relapse-free survival (RFS). The re lationships between clinical characteristics and survival were also evaluated by univariate and multifactorial Cox regression. Gene Ontology term analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis were performed on PAQR5 to explain the enrichment pathways and functions. Protein and protein interactions were explained by GeneMANIA and STRING. We also explored the relevance of PAQR5 to tumor immune cell infiltration and immunomodulatory molecules by TIMER and GEPIA. Finally, we explored the correlation of PAQR5 with the pathway proteins STATs, HIF-1α, and mTOR using the GSE40435 dataset. PAQR5 expression was low in KIRC and correlated significantly with clinical characteristics including cancer stage, tumor grade, and nodal metastasis status. Low PAQR5 expression was significantly associated with poorer survival. Cox regression analysis indicated that upregulation of PAQR5 was an independent factor for a good prognosis of KIRC. PAQR5 downregulation was associated mainly with STAT3 target upregulation, tumorigenesis, and poor differentiation. PAQR5 expression also correlated positively with B cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells and negatively with the infiltration of FOXP3⁺ Treg cells and the immune checkpoint molecules PD-1, CTLA4, and LAG3. Moreover, PAQR5 expression in KIRC was negatively correlated with the pathway proteins STAT1/2/3/4/5A, HIF-1α, and mTOR. PAQR5 is an excellent predictor of KIRC prognosis and may be a potential molecular therapeutic target.

KRAS G12C-Mutant Non-Small-Cell Lung Adenocarcinoma: First Documented Report in the Arabian Gulf

We report the first documented case series of two lung adenocarcinoma patients demonstrating Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) G12C mutations by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction techniques from Saudi Arabia. Both patients were males aged 64 and 76 years. The first had a heavy smoking history, while the second did not report any history of smoking. The tumor subtype was identified to be non-mucinous lung adenocarcinoma in both cases. The younger patient presented with generalized lymphadenopathy and a right-sided lung mass lesion, while the older patient exhibited stage III-A left lung adenocarcinoma that required rapid response. An initial examination of the first case showed a right-sided mediastinal shift, bilateral neck lymphadenopathy, and poorly differentiated neoplasm from a right supraclavicular core biopsy, leading to treatment with palliatives along with regular checkups. The second case was afebrile after being confirmed to be vitally stable and laboratory testing (Neutr 100). Further studies, specifically on large numbers of patients from the Arabian Gulf, are needed to confirm significant differences between the national and international populations. Additionally, future studies should investigate more differences in the differentiation of KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma between patients from the Arabian Gulf and others.

GPR110 promotes progression and metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, and approximately 70% of all breast cancer patients use endocrine therapy, such as estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors. In particular, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains a major threat due to the lack of targeted treatment options and poor clinical outcomes. Here, we found that GPR110 was highly expressed in TNBC and GPR110 plays a key role in TNBC progression by engaging the RAS signaling pathway (via Gαs activation). High expression of GPR110 promoted EMT and CSC phenotypes in breast cancer. Consequently, our study highlights the critical role of GPR110 as a therapeutic target and inhibition of GPR110 could provide a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of TNBC patients.

ACAGT-007a, an ERK MAPK Signaling Modulator, in Combination with AKT Signaling Inhibition Induces Apoptosis in KRAS Mutant Pancreatic Cancer T3M4 and MIA-Pa-Ca-2 Cells

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/ERK and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways are dysregulated in various human cancers, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which has a very poor prognosis due to its lack of efficient therapies. We have previously identified ACAGT-007a (GT-7), an anti-cancer compound that kills ERK-active melanoma cells by inducing ERK-dependent apoptosis. Here, we investigated the apoptosis-inducing effect of GT-7 on three PDAC cell lines and its relevance with the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. GT-7 induced apoptosis in PDAC cells with different KRAS mutations (MIA-Pa-Ca-2 (KRAS G12C), T3M4 (KRAS Q61H), and PANC-1 (KRAS G12D)), being T3M4 most susceptible, followed by MIA-Pa-Ca-2, and PANC-1 was most resistant to apoptosis induction by GT-7. GT-7 stimulated ERK phosphorylation in the three PDAC cells, but only T3M4 displayed ERK-activation-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, GT-7 induced a marked down-regulation of AKT phosphorylation after a transient peak in T3M4, whereas PANC-1 displayed the strongest and most sustained AKT activation, followed by MIA-Pa-Ca-2, suggesting that sustained AKT phosphorylation as a determinant for the resistance to GT-7-mediated apoptosis. Consistently, a PI3K inhibitor, Wortmannin, abolished AKT phosphorylation and enhanced GT-7-mediated apoptosis in T3M4 and MIA-Pa-Ca-2, but not in PANC-1, which showed residual AKT phosphorylation. This is the first report that ERK stimulation alone or in combination with AKT signaling inhibition can effectively induce apoptosis in PDAC and provides a rationale for a novel concurrent targeting of the PI3K/AKT and ERK pathways.

Molecular Signatures of KRAS-Mutated Lung Adenocarcinoma: Analysis of Concomitant EGFR, ALK, STK11, and PD-L1 Status

Background

KRAS mutations are the most common oncogenic driver mutations of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the Western world. Mutations of the KRAS gene are most prevalent in the patient population of current and former cigarette smokers. With the recent pivotal approval of a targeted inhibitor therapy for patients with KRAS p.G12C mutated and pretreated NSCLC, analysis of the heterogeneity of KRAS mutations and concomitant molecular alterations in patients with these tumors at all clinical stages is indicated.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, patient pathology records were reviewed for all cases receiving a pathologic diagnosis of NSCLC within our hospital system. All data were collected with IRB approval. Cases of indeterminate tumor type favoring a non-lung primary, as well as non-adenocarcinoma NSCLC (eg, squamous) were excluded from the cohort. In this hospital system, molecular testing for KRAS mutations is part of a molecular biomarker panel that is reflex ordered at initial diagnosis by the pathologist and may be performed as a single gene test or as a solid organ cancer hotspot panel by next generation sequencing. For each patient, KRAS mutational status and specific KRAS mutations, if present, were collated. Additional information assessed for this study included patient demographics (age, gender, and smoking history), tumor staging if available, PD-L1 expression levels by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the presence of other genetic alterations (EGFR, ALK, and STK11).

Results

Between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2019, there were 276 patients diagnosed with NSCLC of all stages who had KRAS mutational analysis performed in our hospital system and who met the criteria for inclusion into the study cohort. A KRAS driver mutation was detected in 29% of these patients. The most frequently identified KRAS mutation was p.G12C (38%), followed by p.G12D (21%) and p.G12V (13%). KRAS-mutated lung adenocarcinoma was significantly associated with current or former patient smoking status in this cohort (29/202 (14%) smokers and 1/74 (1%) non-smokers; P = .0006). PD-L1 expression of at least 1% by IHC was present in 43% of KRAS-mutated lung adenocarcinomas and 45% of non-KRAS-mutated adenocarcinomas. In this study, KRAS mutations were not found to co-occur with gene alterations in EGFR, ALK, or STK11. In 48% of cases, at least one genetic alteration (KRAS, ALK, EGFR, or STK11) was identified.

Conclusions

In this study cohort, KRAS-mutated lung adenocarcinoma demonstrated significant mutational heterogeneity, which is consistent with previously published studies. KRAS mutational status was also significantly associated with a current or former smoking history. Notably, p.G12C was the most frequently identified KRAS mutation in this cohort, with a frequency of 38%. This finding is particularly relevant given the recent approval of a KRAS p.G12C-specific targeted inhibitor therapy and the continued development of additional KRAS targeted therapies that may prove effective in treating NSCLC. These findings also highlight the necessity of considering molecular testing for KRAS mutations in patients with NSCLC and a smoking history, as this population most frequently harbors KRAS mutations and may benefit from these emerging targeted therapies.

Hypermethylation of the RASSF1A gene promoter as the tumor DNA marker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

BACKGROUND

RASSF1A is a tumor suppressor gene. The methylation of RASSF1A has been reported to be associated with nasopharyngeal tumorigenesis. However, the heterogeneity was high among different studies. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the value of RASSF1A methylation for the diagnosis and early screening of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

METHODS

Relevant articles were identified by searching the MEDLINE database. Frequency and odds ratio (OR) were applied to estimate the effect of CDH-1 methylation based on random-/fixed-effect models. The meta-analysis was performed by using MedCalc^® software. Subgroup analyses were performed by test method, ethnicity, and source of nasopharyngeal carcinoma samples to determine likely sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A total of 17 studies, including 1688 samples (1165 nasopharyngeal carcinoma samples, and 523 from non-cancerous samples) were used for the meta-analysis. The overall frequencies of RASSF1A methylation were 59.68% and 2.65% in case-group and control-group, respectively. By removing the poor relative studies, the heterogeneity was not observed among the studies included. The association between RASSF1A gene methylation and the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma was also confirmed by calculating the OR value of 30.32 (95%CI  = 18.22-50.47) in the fixed-effect model (Q = 16.41, p = 0.36,I² = 8.62, 95% CI = 0.00-45.27). Additionally, the significant association was also found between the methylation of the RASSF1A gene and the subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first meta-analysis that has provided scientific evidence that the methylation of RASSF1A is the potential diagnosis, prognosis, and early screening biomarker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Insights into the post-translational modification and its emerging role in shaping the tumor microenvironment

More and more in-depth studies have revealed that the occurrence and development of tumors depend on gene mutation and tumor heterogeneity. The most important manifestation of tumor heterogeneity is the dynamic change of tumor microenvironment (TME) heterogeneity. This depends not only on the tumor cells themselves in the microenvironment where the infiltrating immune cells and matrix together forming an antitumor and/or pro-tumor network. TME has resulted in novel therapeutic interventions as a place beyond tumor beds. The malignant cancer cells, tumor infiltrate immune cells, angiogenic vascular cells, lymphatic endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblastic cells, and the released factors including intracellular metabolites, hormonal signals and inflammatory mediators all contribute actively to cancer progression. Protein post-translational modification (PTM) is often regarded as a degradative mechanism in protein destruction or turnover to maintain physiological homeostasis. Advances in quantitative transcriptomics, proteomics, and nuclease-based gene editing are now paving the global ways for exploring PTMs. In this review, we focus on recent developments in the PTM area and speculate on their importance as a critical functional readout for the regulation of TME. A wealth of information has been emerging to prove useful in the search for conventional therapies and the development of global therapeutic strategies.

Opportunities and challenges in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most malignant tumours with a poor prognosis. In recent years, the incidence of pancreatic cancer is on the rise. Traditional chemotherapy and radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer have been improved, first-line and second-line palliative treatments have been developed, and adjuvant treatments have also been used in clinical. However, the 5-year survival rate is still less than 10% and new treatment methods such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy need to be investigated. In the past decades, many clinical trials of targeted therapies and immunotherapies for pancreatic cancer were launched and some of them showed an ideal prospect in a subgroup of pancreatic cancer patients. The experience of both success and failure of these clinical trials will be helpful to improve these therapies in the future. Therefore, the current research progress and challenges of selected targeted therapies and immunotherapies for pancreatic cancer are reviewed.

A perspective on the role of autophagy in cancer

Autophagy refers to a ubiquitous set of catabolic pathways required to achieve proper cellular homeostasis. Aberrant autophagy has been implicated in a multitude of diseases including cancer. In this review, we highlight pioneering and groundbreaking research that centers on delineating the role of autophagy in cancer initiation, proliferation and metastasis. First, we discuss the autophagy-related (ATG) proteins and their respective roles in the de novo formation of autophagosomes and the subsequent delivery of cargo to the lysosome for recycling. Next, we touch upon the history of cancer research that centers upon ATG proteins and regulatory mechanisms that control an appropriate autophagic response and how these are altered in the diseased state. Then, we discuss the various discoveries that led to the idea of autophagy as a double-edged sword when it comes to cancer therapy. This review also briefly narrates how different types of autophagy-selective macroautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy, have been linked to different cancers. Overall, these studies build upon a steadfast trajectory that aims to solve the monumentally daunting challenge of finding a cure for many types of cancer by modulating autophagy either through inhibition or induction.

Proteomic Research on the Antitumor Properties of Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms are increasingly being recognized as an important therapeutic modality in complementary oncology. Until now, more than 800 mushroom species have been known to possess significant pharmacological properties, of which antitumor and immunomodulatory properties have been the most researched. Besides a number of medicinal mushroom preparations being used as dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, several isolates from mushrooms have been used as official antitumor drugs in clinical settings for several decades. Various proteomic approaches allow for the identification of a large number of differentially regulated proteins serendipitously, thereby providing an important platform for a discovery of new potential therapeutic targets and approaches as well as biomarkers of malignant disease. This review is focused on the current state of proteomic research into antitumor mechanisms of some of the most researched medicinal mushroom species, including Phellinus linteus, Ganoderma lucidum, Auricularia auricula, Agrocybe aegerita, Grifola frondosa, and Lentinus edodes, as whole body extracts or various isolates, as well as of complex extract mixtures.

Engineered variants of the Ras effector protein RASSF5 (NORE1A) promote anticancer activities in lung adenocarcinoma

Within the superfamily of small GTPases, Ras appears to be the master regulator of such processes as cell cycle progression, cell division, and apoptosis. Several oncogenic Ras mutations at amino acid positions 12, 13, and 61 have been identified that lose their ability to hydrolyze GTP, giving rise to constitutive signaling and eventually development of cancer. While disruption of the Ras/effector interface is an attractive strategy for drug design to prevent this constitutive activity, inhibition of this interaction using small molecules is impractical due to the absence of a cavity to which such molecules could bind. However, proteins and especially natural Ras effectors that bind to the Ras/effector interface with high affinity could disrupt Ras/effector interactions and abolish procancer pathways initiated by Ras oncogene. Using a combination of computational design and in vitro evolution, we engineered high-affinity Ras-binding proteins starting from a natural Ras effector, RASSF5 (NORE1A), which is encoded by a tumor suppressor gene. Unlike previously reported Ras oncogene inhibitors, the proteins we designed not only inhibit Ras-regulated procancer pathways, but also stimulate anticancer pathways initiated by RASSF5. We show that upon introduction into A549 lung carcinoma cells, the engineered RASSF5 mutants decreased cell viability and mobility to a significantly greater extent than WT RASSF5. In addition, these mutant proteins induce cellular senescence by increasing acetylation and decreasing phosphorylation of p53. In conclusion, engineered RASSF5 variants provide an attractive therapeutic strategy able to oppose cancer development by means of inhibiting of procancer pathways and stimulating anticancer processes.

Potential Molecular Biomarkers of Vestibular Schwannoma Growth: Progress and Prospects

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs, also known as acoustic neuromas) are relatively rare benign brain tumors stem from the Schwann cells of the eighth cranial nerve. Tumor growth is the paramount factor for neurosurgeons to decide whether to choose aggressive treatment approach or careful follow-up with regular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as surgery and radiation can introduce significant trauma and affect neurological function, while tumor enlargement during long-term follow-up will compress the adjacent nerves and tissues, causing progressive hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo. Recently, with the deepening research of VS biology, some proteins that regulate merlin conformation changes, inflammatory cytokines, miRNAs, tissue proteins and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) components have been proposed to be closely related to tumor volume increase. In this review, we discuss advances in the study of biomarkers that associated with VS growth, providing a reference for exploring the growth course of VS and determining the optimal treatment strategy for each patient.

A "Janus" face of the RASSF4 signal in cell fate

RASSF4 (Ras-association domain family 4) is a protein-coding gene, regarded as a tumor suppressor regulated by DNA methylation. However, RASSF4 acts as a "Janus" in cell fate: death and survival. This review article focuses on the regulatory mechanisms of RASSF4 on cell death and cell survival and puts forward a comprehensive analysis of the relevant signaling pathways. The participation of RASSF4 in the regulation of intracellular store-operated Ca²⁺ entry also affects cell survival. Moreover, the mechanism of inducing abnormal expression of RASSF4 was summarized. We highlight recent advances in our knowledge of RASSF4 function in the development of cancer and other clinical diseases, which may provide insight into the controversial functions of RASSF4 and its potential application in disease therapy.

RAS GTPase signalling to alternative effector pathways

RAS GTPases are fundamental regulators of development and drivers of an extraordinary number of human cancers. RAS oncoproteins constitutively signal through downstream effector proteins, triggering cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. In the absence of targeted therapeutics to mutant RAS itself, inhibitors of downstream pathways controlled by the effector kinases RAF and PI3K have become tools in the treatment of RAS-driven tumours. Unfortunately, the efficacy of this approach has been greatly minimized by the prevalence of acquired drug resistance. Decades of research have established that RAS signalling is highly complex, and in addition to RAF and PI3K these small GTPase proteins can interact with an array of alternative effectors that feature RAS binding domains. The consequence of RAS binding to these effectors remains relatively unexplored, but these pathways may provide targets for combinatorial therapeutics. We discuss here three candidate alternative effectors: RALGEFs, RASSF5 and AFDN, detailing their interaction with RAS GTPases and their biological significance. The metastatic nature of RAS-driven cancers suggests more attention should be granted to these alternate pathways, as they are highly implicated in the regulation of cell adhesion, polarity, cell size and cytoskeletal architecture.

Interaction between Ras and Bcl2L12 in B cells suppresses IL-10 expression

The pathogenesis of recurrent tonsillitis is to be further investigated. B cell-derived interleukin (IL)-10 plays a critical role in immune regulation. Ras activation plays an important role in cancer and many immune disorders. This study aims to investigate the role of Ras activation in down regulating IL-10 expression in tonsillar B cells. Surgically removed tonsil tissues were collected from patients with recurrent acute tonsillar inflammation; B cells were isolated from the tonsillar tissues by flow cytometry sorting to be analyzed by the Ras-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and pertinent immunological approaches. We found that, compared to peripheral B cells (pBC), B cells isolated from the tonsillar tissues with recurrent inflammation (tBC) showed higher Ras activation, lower IL-10 expression and higher Bcl2L12 expression. Bcl2L12 formed a complex with GAP (GTPase activating protein) to prevent Ras from deactivating. The Ras activation triggered the MAPK/Sp1 pathway to promote the Bcl2L12 expression in B cells. Bcl2L12 prevented the IL-10 expression in tBCs, that was counteracted by inhibition of Ras or the Ras signal transduction pathway. In conclusion, Bcl2L12 interacts with Ras activation to compromise immune tolerance in the tonsils by inhibiting the IL-10 expression in tBCs. Inhibition of Bcl2L12 can restore the IL-10 expression in tBCs.

LZTR1: A promising adaptor of the CUL3 family

The study of the disorders of ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation may unravel the molecular basis of human diseases, such as cancer (prostate cancer, lung cancer and liver cancer, etc.) and nervous system disease (Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease, etc.) and help in the design of new therapeutic methods. Leucine zipper-like transcription regulator 1 (LZTR1) is an important substrate recognition subunit of cullin-RING E3 ligase that plays an important role in the regulation of cellular functions. Mutations in LZTR1 and dysregulation of associated downstream signaling pathways contribute to the pathogenesis of Noonan syndrome (NS), glioblastoma and chronic myeloid leukemia. Understanding the molecular mechanism of the normal function of LZTR1 is thus critical for its eventual therapeutic targeting. In the present review, the structure and function of LZTR1 are described. Moreover, recent advances in the current knowledge of the functions of LZTR1 in NS, glioblastoma (GBM), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and schwannomatosis and the influence of LZTR1 mutations are also discussed, providing insight into how LZTR1 may be targeted for therapeutic purposes.

Neurofibromin Deficiency and Extracellular Matrix Cooperate to Increase Transforming Potential through FAK-Dependent Signaling

Simple Summary

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a genetic disease that predisposes to tumors of the nervous system, primarily the neurofibroma. Plexiform neurofibromas (Pnfs) are of the greatest concern because of location, size, and frequent progression to malignancy. Although research is making great progress, the lack of in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving neoplastic progression results in the absence of prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets. We document that cell–cell cooperativity and the dynamics of the extracellular matrix play important roles in the growth and transformation of Pnf cells, directly through the cooperation of RAS and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling. In turn, we found that treatment of Pnf cells with both MEK and FAK inhibitors is effective in abolishing the transforming ability of these cells.

Abstract

Plexiform neurofibromas (Pnfs) are benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors that are major features of the human genetic syndrome, neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Pnfs are derived from Schwann cells (SCs) undergoing loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at the NF1 locus in an NF1^+/− milieu and thus are variably lacking in the key Ras-controlling protein, neurofibromin (Nfn). As these SCs are embedded in a dense desmoplastic milieu of stromal cells and abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM), cell–cell cooperativity (CCC) and the molecular microenvironment play essential roles in Pnf progression towards a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST). The complexity of Pnf biology makes treatment challenging. The only approved drug, the MEK inhibitor Selumetinib, displays a variable and partial therapeutic response. Here, we explored ECM contributions to the growth of cells lacking Nfn. In a 3D in vitro culture, NF1 loss sensitizes cells to signals from a Pnf-mimicking ECM through focal adhesion kinase (FAK) hyperactivation. This hyperactivation correlated with phosphorylation of the downstream effectors, Src, ERK, and AKT, and with colony formation. Expression of the GAP-related domain of Nfn only partially decreased activation of this signaling pathway and only slowed down 3D colony growth of cells lacking Nfn. However, combinatorial treatment with both the FAK inhibitor Defactinib (VS-6063) and Selumetinib (AZD6244) fully suppressed colony growth. These observations pave the way for a new combined therapeutic strategy simultaneously interfering with both intracellular signals and the interplay between the various tumor cells and the ECM.

The Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-kB) signaling in cancer development and immune diseases

The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) family of transcription factors plays an essential role as stressors in the cellular environment, and controls the expression of important regulatory genes such as immunity, inflammation, death, and cell proliferation. NF-kB protein is located in the cytoplasm, and can be activated by various cellular stimuli. There are two pathways for NF-kB activation, as the canonical and non-canonical pathways, which require complex molecular interactions with adapter proteins and phosphorylation and ubiquitinase enzymes. Accordingly, this increases NF-kB translocation in the nucleus and regulates gene expression. In this study, the concepts that emerge in different cellular systems allow the design of NF-kB function in humans. This would not only allow the development for rare diseases associated with NF-kB, but would also be used as a source of useful information to eliminate widespread consequences such as cancer or inflammatory/immune diseases.

Statistical profiling reveals correlations between the cell response to and the primary structure of Rho-GAPs

Rho-GTPase-activating proteins (Rho-GAPs) are essential upstream regulators of the Rho family of GTPases. Currently, it remains unclear if the phenotypic change caused by perturbations to a Rho-GAP is predictable from its amino acid sequence. Here we analyze the relationship between the morphological response of cells to the silencing of Rho-GAPs and their primary structure. For all possible pairs of 57 different Rho-GAPs expressed in MCF10A epithelial cells, the similarity in the Rho-GAP silencing-induced morphological change was quantified and compared to the similarity in the primary structure of the corresponding pairs. We found a distinct correlation between the morphological and sequence similarities in a specific group of RhoA-targeting Rho-GAPs. Thus, the family-wide analysis revealed a common feature shared by the specific Rho-GAPs.

Pulmonary Inflammation and KRAS Mutation in Lung Cancer

Chronic lung infection and lung cancer are two of the most important pulmonary diseases. Respiratory infection and its associated inflammation have been increasingly investigated for their role in increasing the risk of respiratory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) is one of the most important regulators of cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. KRAS mutations are among the most common drivers of cancer. Lung cancer harboring KRAS mutations accounted for ~25% of the incidence but the relationship between KRAS mutation and inflammation remains unclear. In this chapter, we will describe the roles of KRAS mutation in lung cancer and how elevated inflammatory responses may increase KRAS mutation rate and create a vicious cycle of chronic inflammation and KRAS mutation that likely results in persistent potentiation for KRAS-associated lung tumorigenesis. We will discuss in this chapter regarding the studies of KRAS gene mutations in specimens from lung cancer patients and in animal models for investigating the role of inflammation in increasing the risk of lung tumorigenesis driven primarily by oncogenic KRAS.

Clinical significance of HRAS and KRAS genes expression in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer - preliminary findings

Background

The RAS family protooncogenes, including KRAS, NRAS and HRAS, encode proteins responsible for the regulation of growth, differentiation and survival of many cell types. The HRAS and KRAS oncogene mutations are well defined, however, the clinical significance of RAS expressions in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is still uncertain.

Methods

A total of 39 whole blood samples of NSCLC (the investigated group), collected at three points of time: at the time of diagnosis, 100 days and 1 year after the surgery as well as 35 tissue samples obtained during the surgery were included in this study. HRAS and KRAS genes mRNA expression were assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques.

Results

Increased relative HRAS mRNA level in blood was found significantly more frequently in the group of smokers (p = 0.008). Patients with squamous cell carcinoma subtypes of NSCLC were more likely to show an overexpression of HRAS gene in blood, but not statistically significant (p = 0.065). In tumor tissue overexpression of HRAS gene was associated with adenocarcinoma subtype (p = 0.049). No statistically significant associations were found for the expression of KRAS with any clinicopathological parameters, except the age of patients, within the study. There were no differences between the relative HRAS and KRAS genes expression levels in blood samples taken from the same patients during the 3 observation points, as well as between blood collected from patients before surgery and tissue samples obtained during operation.

Conclusion

The potential associations between high HRAS expression levels, age, smoking status and histological type of cancer were observed, which emphasizes the need for further study of the RAS family. Therefore, subsequent research involving larger numbers of patients and a longer follow-up, as well as multicenter study are necessary to confirm our findings.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-07858-w.

Toxoplasma and Eimeria co-opt the host cFos expression for intracellular development in mammalian cells

•

Gene expression profiles differ significantly between Toxoplasma and Eimeria-infected host cells.

•

Several distinct and shared host-signaling cascades are regulated by coccidian parasites.

•

cFos is one of the few host transcripts mutually regulated during infection by both pathogens.

•

Host cFos is required for optimal in vitro development of E. falciformis and T. gondii.

•

Transcriptomics of parasitized wild-type and cFos^-/- host cells reveals a perturbation of cFos network.

Successful asexual reproduction of intracellular pathogens depends on their potential to exploit host resources and subvert antimicrobial defense. In this work, we deployed two prevalent apicomplexan parasites of mammalian cells, namely Toxoplasma gondii and Eimeria falciformis, to identify potential host determinants of infection. Expression analyses of the young adult mouse colonic (YAMC) epithelial cells upon infection by either parasite showed regulation of several distinct transcripts, indicating that these two pathogens program their intracellular niches in a tailored manner. Conversely, parasitized mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) displayed a divergent transcriptome compared to corresponding YAMC epithelial cells, suggesting that individual host cells mount a fairly discrete response when encountering a particular pathogen. Among several host transcripts similarly altered by T. gondii and E. falciformis, we identified cFos, a master transcription factor, that was consistently induced throughout the infection. Indeed, asexual growth of both parasites was strongly impaired in MEF host cells lacking cFos expression. Last but not the least, our differential transcriptomics of the infected MEFs (parental and cFos^-/- mutant) and YAMC epithelial cells disclosed a cFos-centered network, underlying signal cascades, as well as a repertoire of nucleotides- and ion-binding proteins, which presumably act in consort to acclimatize the mammalian cell and thereby facilitate the parasite development.

Effect of photodynamic therapy on expression of HRAS, NRAS and caspase 3 genes at mRNA levels, apoptosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell line

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on expression of CASP3, NRAS and HRAS genes at mRNA levels, and apoptosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In order to complete the present in vitro study, HNSCC cell line (NCBI C196 HN5) purchased from Pasteur Institute. Cells were divided into four groups; Group 1: photodynamic treatment (laser + methylene blue (MB) as photosensitizer), group 2: MB, group 3: laser (with 660 nm wavelength), and group 4: control (without any treatment). To determine the optimal concentration of MB, in a pilot study, toxicity of MB in different concentration was assessed using MTT assay. Cells in group 1, 2 and 3 was treated at optimal concentration of MB (1.6 μg/mL). Gene expression at mRNA levels was assessed after 24 h incubation, using real-time (qRT)-PCR. The expression of BAX and BCL2 genes at the mRNA levels was analyzed to evaluate apoptosis. 2^-ΔΔCt values of BCL2, BAX, CASP3, NRAS, and HRAS in groups was analyzed using ANOVA. Tukey's HSD and Games Howell test was used to compare between two groups.

RESULTS

Over-expression of BAX (p < 0.001), CASP3 (p < 0.001) and down-regulation of BCL2 (p = 0.004), HRAS (p = 0.023) and NRAS (p = 0.045) were noted in group 1 (PDT), compared with the control group. Treatment by laser alone induce down-regulation of CASP3 (p < 0.05), BAX (p < 0.05), BCL2 (p > 0.05), HRAS (p > 0.05) and NRAS (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

PDT caused down-regulation of NRAS, HRAS and BCL2 and over-expression of CASP3 and BAX genes at mRNA levels in HNSCC cell line. The present study raises the possibility that the role of MB on BCL2 down-regulation and BAX and CASP3 over-expression was higher than laser alone while it seems that laser alone was more effective than MB in HRAS and NRAS down-regulation.

GABRD promotes progression and predicts poor prognosis in colorectal cancer

Little is known about the functional roles of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit delta (GABRD) in colorectal cancer (CRC). The expression of GABRD between CRCs and adjacent normal tissues (NTs), metastasis and primary tumors was compared using public transcriptomic datasets. A tissue microarray and immunohistochemical staining (IHC) were used to determine the clinical and prognostic significance of the GABRD in CRC. We used gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments to investigate the in vitro roles of GABRD in cultured CRC cells. We characterized the potential mechanism of GABRD’s activities in CRC using a Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) with The Cancer Genome Atlas Colon Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-COAD) dataset. We found that the GABRD expression was significantly increased in CRCs compared to that in NTs, but was similar between metastasis and primary tumors. Overexpression of GABRD was significantly associated with later pTNM stages and unfavorable patient survival. Overexpression of GABRD accelerated while knock-down of GABRD inhibited cell growth and migration. Mechanistically, the function of GABRD might be ascribed to its influence on major oncogenic events such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and hedgehog signaling. Collectively, GABRD could be a novel prognostic predictor for CRC that deserves further investigation.

Characterization of the Immunomodulatory Mechanism of a Pleurotus eryngii Protein by Isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantitation Proteomics

PEP 1b is a novel immunoregulatory protein isolated from Pleurotus eryngii, a popular edible mushroom. In this study, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) approach and bioinformatics analysis were used to characterize the PEP-1b-induced proteome alterations in Raw 264.7 macrophage cells, to comprehensively excavate the molecular mechanisms involved in the immunoregulatory effects of PEP 1b. In comparison to the control group, PEP 1b treatment significantly changed the expression of 292 proteins, including 191 upregulated and 101 downregulated proteins. Bioinformatics analysis showed that PEP-1b-regulated proteins were involved in 437 biological process domains, 131 cellular component domains, and 90 molecular function domains. Moreover, PEP 1b played the role of immunomodulator by mainly modulating the Rap1 signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Interestingly, PEP 1b regulated the proteins involved in the immune system, signal transduction, and transport processes, which were related to the immunoregulatory effects of PEP 1b. The western blotting analysis confirmed that the immune-boosting activities of PEP 1b were associated with modulating the expression of Sqstm1, Cox2, Rap1b, and Pyk2. The current research provided a comprehensive understanding of the immunoregulatory effects and molecular mechanisms involved in the PEP 1b supplementation.

Blockade of IGF/IGF-1R signaling axis with soluble IGF-1R mutants suppresses the cell proliferation and tumor growth of human osteosarcoma

Primary bone tumor, also known as osteosarcoma (OS), is the most common primary malignancy of bone in children and young adults. Current treatment protocols yield a 5-year survival rate of near 70% although approximately 80% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. However, long-term survival rates have remained virtually unchanged for nearly four decades, largely due to our limited understanding of the disease process. One major signaling pathway that has been implicated in human OS tumorigenesis is the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling axis. IGF1R is a heterotetrameric α2β2 receptor, in which the α subunits comprise the ligand binding site, whereas the β subunits are transmembrane proteins containing intracellular tyrosine kinase domains. Although numerous strategies have been devised to target IGF/IGF1R axis, most of them have failed in clinical trials due to the lack of specificity and/or limited efficacy. Here, we investigated whether a more effective and specific blockade of IGF1R activity in human OS cells can be accomplished by employing dominant-negative IGF1R (dnIGF1R) mutants. We engineered the recombinant adenoviruses expressing two IGF1R mutants derived from the α (aa 1-524) and β (aa 741-936) subunits, and found that either dnIGF1Rα and/or dnIGF1Rβ effectively inhibited cell migration, colony formation, and cell cycle progression of human OS cells, which could be reversed by exogenous IGF1. Furthermore, dnIGF1Rα and/or dnIGF1Rβ inhibited OS xenograft tumor growth in vivo, with the greatest inhibition of tumor growth shown by dnIGF1Rα. Mechanistically, the dnIGF1R mutants down-regulated the expression of PI3K/AKT and RAS/RAF/MAPK, BCL2, Cyclin D1 and most EMT regulators, while up-regulating pro-apoptotic genes in human OS cells. Collectively, these findings strongly suggest that the dnIGF1R mutants, especially dnIGF1Rα, may be further developed as novel anticancer agents that target IGF signaling axis with high specificity and efficacy.

Neurocutaneous melanocytosis (melanosis)

Neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM; MIM # 249400; ORPHA: 2481], first reported by the Bohemian pathologist Rokitansky in 1861, and now more precisely defined as neurocutaneous melanocytosis, is a rare, congenital syndrome characterised by the association of (1) congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) of the skin with overlying hypertrichosis, presenting as (a) large (LCMN) or giant and/or multiple (MCMN) melanocytic lesions (or both; sometimes associated with smaller "satellite" nevi) or (b) as proliferative melanocytic nodules; and (2) melanocytosis (with infiltration) of the brain parenchyma and/or leptomeninges. CMN of the skin and leptomeningeal/nervous system infiltration are usually benign, more rarely may progress to melanoma or non-malignant melanosis of the brain. Approximately 12% of individuals with LCMN will develop NCM: wide extension and/or dorsal axial distribution of LCMN increases the risk of NCM. The CMN are recognised at birth and are distributed over the skin according to 6 or more patterns (6B patterns) in line with the archetypical patterns of distribution of mosaic skin disorders. Neurological manifestations can appear acutely in infancy, or more frequently later in childhood or adult life, and include signs/symptoms of intracranial hypertension, seizures/epilepsy, cranial nerve palsies, motor/sensory deficits, cognitive/behavioural abnormalities, sleep cycle anomalies, and eventually neurological deterioration. NMC patients may be symptomatic or asymptomatic, with or without evidence of the typical nervous system changes at MRI. Associated brain and spinal cord malformations include the Dandy-Walker malformation (DWM) complex, hemimegalencephaly, cortical dysplasia, arachnoid cysts, Chiari I and II malformations, syringomyelia, meningoceles, occult spinal dysraphism, and CNS lipoma/lipomatosis. There is no systemic involvement, or only rarely. Pathogenically, single postzygotic mutations in the NRAS (neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homologue; MIM # 164790; at 1p13.2) proto-oncogene explain the occurrence of single/multiple CMNs and melanocytic and non-melanocytic nervous system lesions in NCM: these disrupt the RAS/ERK/mTOR/PI3K/akt pathways. Diagnostic/surveillance work-ups require physical examination, ophthalmoscopy, brain/spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography (MRA), positron emission tomography (PET), and video-EEG and IQ testing. Treatment strategies include laser therapy, chemical peeling, dermabrasion, and surgical removal/grafting for CMNs and shunt surgery and surgical removal/chemo/radiotherapy for CNS lesions. Biologically targeted therapies tailored (a) BRAF/MEK in NCM mice (MEK162) and GCMN (trametinib); (b) PI3K/mTOR (omipalisib/GSK2126458) in NMC cells; (c) RAS/MEK (vemurafenib and trametinib) in LCMNs cells; or created experimental NMC cells (YP-MEL).

Biology, pathology, and therapeutic targeting of RAS

RAS was identified as a human oncogene in the early 1980s and subsequently found to be mutated in nearly 30% of all human cancers. More importantly, RAS plays a central role in driving tumor development and maintenance. Despite decades of effort, there remain no FDA approved drugs that directly inhibit RAS. The prevalence of RAS mutations in cancer and the lack of effective anti-RAS therapies stem from RAS' core role in growth factor signaling, unique structural features, and biochemistry. However, recent advances have brought promising new drugs to clinical trials and shone a ray of hope in the field. Here, we will exposit the details of RAS biology that illustrate its key role in cell signaling and shed light on the difficulties in therapeutically targeting RAS. Furthermore, past and current efforts to develop RAS inhibitors will be discussed in depth.

VPS33B suppresses lung adenocarcinoma metastasis and chemoresistance to cisplatin

The presence of VPS33B in tumors has rarely been reported. Downregulated VPS33B protein expression is an unfavorable factor that promotes the pathogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Overexpressed VPS33B was shown to reduce the migration, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance of LUAD cells to cisplatin (DDP) in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistic analyses have indicated that VPS33B first suppresses epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) Ras/ERK signaling, which further reduces the expression of the oncogenic factor c-Myc. Downregulated c-Myc expression reduces the rate at which it binds the p53 promoter and weakens its transcription inhibition; therefore, decreased c-Myc stimulates p53 expression, leading to decreased epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) signal. NESG1 has been shown to be an unfavorable indicator of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, NESG1 was identified as an interactive protein of VPS33B. In addition, NESG1 was found to exhibit mutual stimulation with VPS33B via reduced RAS/ERK/c-Jun-mediated transcription repression. Knockdown of NESG1 activated EGFR/Ras/ERK/c-Myc signaling and further downregulated p53 expression, which thus activated EMT signaling and promoted LUAD migration and invasion. Finally, we observed that nicotine suppressed VPS33B expression by inducing PI3K/AKT/c-Jun-mediated transcription suppression. Our study demonstrates that VPS33B as a tumor suppressor is significantly involved in the pathogenesis of LUAD.

The Hippo Tumor Suppressor Pathway (YAP/TAZ/TEAD/MST/LATS) and EGFR-RAS-RAF-MEK in cancer metastasis

Hippo Tumor Suppressor Pathway is the main pathway for cell growth that regulates tissue enlargement and organ size by limiting cell growth. This pathway is activated in response to cell cycle arrest signals (cell polarity, transduction, and DNA damage) and limited by growth factors or mitogens associated with EGF and LPA. The major pathway consists of the central kinase of Ste20 MAPK (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Hpo (Drosophila melanogaster) or MST kinases (mammalian) that activates the mammalian AGC kinase dmWts or LATS effector (MST and LATS). YAP in the nucleus work as a cofactor for a wide range of transcription factors involved in proliferation (TEA domain family, TEAD1-4), stem cells (Oct4 mononuclear factor and SMAD-related TGFβ effector), differentiation (RUNX1), and Cell cycle/apoptosis control (p53, p63, and p73 family members). This is due to the diverse roles of YAP and may limit tumor progression and establishment. TEAD also coordinates various signal transduction pathways such as Hippo, WNT, TGFβ and EGFR, and effects on lack of regulation of TEAD cancerous genes, such as KRAS, BRAF, LKB1, NF2 and MYC, which play essential roles in tumor progression, metastasis, cancer metabolism, immunity, and drug resistance. However, RAS signaling is a pivotal factor in the inactivation of Hippo, which controls EGFR-RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK-mediated interaction of Hippo signaling. Thus, the loss of the Hippo pathway may have significant consequences on the targets of RAS-RAF mutations in cancer.