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Liu C, Gao F, Yang J, Liu C, Tian Z. Wilms' Tumor 1-Associating Protein Promotes Nonsmall-Cell Lung Cancer Through the Expression of Carcinoembryonic Antigen-Related Cell Adhesion Molecule 5. Am J Clin Oncol 2024:00000421-990000000-00201. [PMID: 38898559 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to analyze the functional roles and molecular mechanism of Wilms' tumor 1-associating protein (WTAP) in the tumorigenesis of nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS Retrospective analysis was used. Tumor tissues and surrounding nontumor tissues of 150 patients with NSCLS who were surgically resected in the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from January 2016 to January 2018 were selected. The expression of WTAP in NSCLC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. Clinicopathologic parameters were then subjected to univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis in purpose of uncovering the independent risk factors for overall survival time. MTS (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-zyl]-5-[3-carboxymethoxyphenyl]-2-[4-sulfophenyl]-2H-tetrazoliuzolium, inner salt) assay, colony formation assay, and transwell assays were performed to estimate cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Meanwhile, the relationship between WTAP and the cell migration and invasion marker-related proteins were evaluated by Western blot analysis and RT-qPCR. WTAP expression was knocked-down in cell lines by shRNA, and RNA-Seq was performed to investigate the pathways regulated by WTAP. RESULTS In NSCLC patients, WTAP was highly expressed in tumor tissues and the higher expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (OS) (P<0.01). Compared with the control group in vitro, the overexpression of WTAP could significantly promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion (P<0.01), while knock-down WTAP significantly reduces the above effects (P<0.01). In a mouse orthotopic implantation model, higher WTAP abundance could significantly promote tumor enlargement compared with the control group (P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the knock-down of WTAP significantly inhibit the expression of carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5 (CEACAM5) in cell lines (P<0.01). Besides, in NSCLC, knocked-down CEACAM5 significantly reduced the impact of WTAP on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion compared with the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that high expression of WTAP was associated with poor clinical outcomes. CEACAM5 may play a synergistic role with WTAP to jointly promote NSCLC progression by enhancing cell proliferation, invasion, and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changjiang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Chengang Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ziqiang Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Wang C, Cao S, Cheng X, Jin L, Ren R, Zhou F. circRNA6448-14/miR-455-3p/OTUB2 axis stimulates glycolysis and stemness of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:9485-9497. [PMID: 38819228 PMCID: PMC11210236 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a gastrointestinal malignancy with high incidence. This study aimed to reveal the complete circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in ESCC and validate its function mechanism. METHOD Expression of OTU Domain-Containing Ubiquitin Aldehyde-Binding Protein 2 (OTUB2) in ESCC was analyzed by bioinformatics to find the binding sites between circRNA6448-14 and miR-455-3p, as well as miR-455-3p and OTUB2. The binding relationships were verified by RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual-luciferase assay. The expressions of circRNA6448-14, miR-455-3p, and OTUB2 were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MTT assay measured cell viability, and the spheroid formation assay assessed the ability of stem cell sphere formation. Western blot (WB) determined the expression of marker proteins of stem cell surface and rate-limiting enzyme of glycolysis. The Seahorse XFe96 extracellular flux analyzer measured the rate of extracellular acidification rate and cellular oxygen consumption. Corresponding assay kits assessed cellular glucose consumption, lactate production, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation. RESULTS In ESCC, circRNA6448-14 and OTUB2 were highly expressed in contrast to miR-455-3p. Knocking down circRNA6448-14 could prevent the glycolysis and stemness of ESCC cells. Additionally, circRNA6448-14 enhanced the expression of OTUB2 by sponging miR-455-3p. Overexpression of OTUB2 or silencing miR-455-3p reversed the inhibitory effect of knockdown of circRNA6448-14 on ESCC glycolysis and stemness. CONCLUSION This research demonstrated that the circRNA6448-14/miR-455-3p/OTUB2 axis induced the glycolysis and stemness of ESCC cells. Our study revealed a novel function of circRNA6448-14, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaowen Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Heming Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Chenyu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Shasha Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Xinyu Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Linzhi Jin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Runchuan Ren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Fuyou Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Affiliated Anyang Tumor Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Medical key Laboratory of Precise Prevention and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer, Anyang 455000, China
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Ranjbar-Niavol F, Rezaei N, Zhao Y, Mirzaei H, Hassan M, Vosough M. P53/NANOG balance; the leading switch between poorly to well differentiated status in liver cancer cells. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1377761. [PMID: 38846985 PMCID: PMC11153735 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1377761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Enforcing a well-differentiated state on cells requires tumor suppressor p53 activation as a key player in apoptosis induction and well differentiation. In addition, recent investigations showed a significant correlation between poorly differentiated status and higher expression of NANOG. Inducing the expression of NANOG and decreasing p53 level switch the status of liver cancer cells from well differentiated to poorly status. In this review, we highlighted p53 and NANOG cross-talk in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which is regulated through mitophagy and makes it a novel molecular target to attenuate cancerous phenotype in the management of this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazeleh Ranjbar-Niavol
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Rezaei
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ying Zhao
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Moustapha Hassan
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
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García-Hernández AP, Sánchez-Sánchez G, Carlos-Reyes A, López-Camarillo C. Functional roles of microRNAs in vasculogenic mimicry and resistance to therapy in human cancers: an update. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38712535 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2024.2352484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) alludes to the ability of cancer cells to organize on three-dimensional channel-like structures to obtain nutrients and oxygen. This mechanism confers an aggressive phenotype, metastatic potential, and resistance to chemotherapy resulting in a poor prognosis. Recent studies have been focused on the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) that regulate the VM representing potential therapeutic targets in cancer. AREAS COVERED An overview of the roles of miRNAs on VM development and their functional relationships with tumor microenvironment. The functions of cancer stem-like cells in VM, and resistance to therapy are also discussed. Moreover, the modulation of VM by natural compounds is explored. The clinical significance of deregulated miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets in tumors showing VM is further highlighted. EXPERT OPINION The miRNAs are regulators of protein-encoding genes involved in VM; however, their specific expression signatures with clinical value in large cohorts of patients have not been established yet. We considered that genomic profiling of miRNAs could be useful to define some hallmarks of tumors such as stemness, drug resistance, and VM in cancer patients. However, additional studies are needed to establish the relevant role of miRNAs as effective therapeutic targets in tumors that have developed VM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angeles Carlos-Reyes
- Laboratorio de Onco-Inmunobiología, Departamento de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Ciudad de México
| | - César López-Camarillo
- Posgrado en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México
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Markowska A, Kojs Z, Twardawa D, Pietras J, Markowska J. Selected markers of ovarian cancer and their relation to targeted therapy (Review). Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:236. [PMID: 38628658 PMCID: PMC11019661 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in surgical treatment techniques and chemotherapy-including anti-angiogenic and immune poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, the 5-year survival rate in ovarian cancer (OC) remains low. The reasons for this are the diagnosis of cancer in advanced clinical stages, chemoresistance and cancer recurrence. New therapeutic approaches are being developed, including the search for new biomarkers that are also targets for targeted therapy. The present review describes new molecular markers with relevance to targeted therapy, which to date have been studied only in experimental research. These include the angiogenic protein angiopoietin-2, the transmembrane glycoprotein ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1, the adhesion protein E-cadherin, the TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 and Kruppel-like factor 7. Drugs affecting cancer stem cells (CSCs) in OC, such as metformin and salinomycin, as well as inhibitors of CSCs markers aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (with the drug ATRA) and the transcription factor Nanog homeobox (microRNA) are also discussed. A new approach to prevention and possible therapies under investigation such as development of vaccines containing a subpopulation of CD117(+) and CD44(+) stem cells with a promising option for use in women with OC was described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Markowska
- Department of Perinatology and Women's Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Kojs
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, 31-826 Kraków, Poland
| | - Damian Twardawa
- Medical Department, Bausch Health Poland, 02-674 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Pietras
- Department of Perinatology and Women's Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland
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Loda A, Semeraro F, Parolini S, Ronca R, Rezzola S. Cancer stem-like cells in uveal melanoma: novel insights and therapeutic implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189104. [PMID: 38701937 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary ocular tumor in the adult population. Even though these primary tumors are successfully treated in 90% of cases, almost 50% of patients ultimately develop metastasis, mainly in the liver, via hematological dissemination, with a median survival spanning from 6 to 12 months after diagnosis. In this context, chemotherapy regimens and molecular targeted therapies have demonstrated poor response rates and failed to improve survival. Among the multiple reasons for therapy failure, the presence of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) represents the main cause of resistance to anticancer therapies. In the last few years, the existence of CSCs in UM has been demonstrated both in preclinical and clinical studies, and new molecular pathways and mechanisms have been described for this subpopulation of UM cells. Here, we will discuss the state of the art of CSC biology and their potential exploitation as therapeutic target in UM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Loda
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Parolini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; National Center for Gene Therapy and Drugs based on RNA Technology - CN3, Padova, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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7
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MacLean MR, Walker OL, Arun RP, Fernando W, Marcato P. Informed by Cancer Stem Cells of Solid Tumors: Advances in Treatments Targeting Tumor-Promoting Factors and Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4102. [PMID: 38612911 PMCID: PMC11012648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation within tumors that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence due to their self-renewal capacity and resistance to conventional therapies. CSC-specific markers and signaling pathways highly active in CSCs have emerged as a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic targets associated with CSCs of solid tumors across various cancer types, including key molecular markers aldehyde dehydrogenases, CD44, epithelial cellular adhesion molecule, and CD133 and signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Sonic Hedgehog. We discuss a wide array of therapeutic modalities ranging from targeted antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and near-infrared photoimmunotherapy to advanced genetic approaches like RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, CAR natural killer cells, bispecific T cell engagers, immunotoxins, drug-antibody conjugates, therapeutic peptides, and dendritic cell vaccines. This review spans developments from preclinical investigations to ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the innovative targeting strategies that have been informed by CSC-associated pathways and molecules to overcome therapeutic resistance. We aim to provide insights into the potential of these therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, underscoring the critical need for a multi-faceted approach in the battle against cancer. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates how advances made in the CSC field have informed significant developments in novel targeted therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of achieving more effective and durable responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R. MacLean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Olivia L. Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Raj Pranap Arun
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Wasundara Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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Ke C, Zhou H, Xia T, Xie X, Jiang B. GTP binding protein 2 maintains the quiescence, self-renewal, and chemoresistance of mouse colorectal cancer stem cells via promoting Wnt signaling activation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27159. [PMID: 38468952 PMCID: PMC10926081 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers and the second most deadly cancer across the globe. Colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) fuel CRC growth, metastasis, relapse, and chemoresistance. A complete understanding of the modulatory mechanisms of CCSC biology is essential for developing efficacious CRC treatment. In the current study, we characterized the expression and function of GTP binding protein 2 (GTPBP2) in a chemical-induced mouse CRC model. We found that GTPBP2 was expressed at a higher level in CD133+CD44+ CCSCs compared with other CRC cells. Using a lentivirus-based Cas9/sgRNA system, GTPBP2 expression was ablated in CRC cells in vitro. GTPBP2 deficiency caused the following effects on CCSCs: 1) Significantly accelerating proliferation and increasing the proportions of cells at G1, S, and G2/M phase; 2) Impairing resistance to 5-Fluorouracil; 3) Weakening self-renewal but not impacting cell migration. In addition, GTPBP2 deficiency remarkably decreased β-catenin expression while increasing β-catenin phosphorylation in CCSCs. These effects of GTPBP2 were present in CCSCs but not in other CRC cell populations. The Wnt agonist SKL2001 completely abolished these changes in GTPBP2-deficient CCSCs. When GTPBP2-deficient CCSCs were implanted in nude mice, they exhibited consistent changes compared with GTPBP2-expressing CCSCs. Collectively, this study indicates that GTPBP2 positively modulates Wnt signaling to reinforce the quiescence, self-renewal, and chemoresistance of mouse CCSCs. Therefore, we disclose a novel mechanism underlying CCSC biology and GTPBP2 could be a therapeutic target in future CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ke
- The Department of Gastrointestinal, Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital (Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University), 241 Pengliuyang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430060, China
| | - Hongjian Zhou
- The Department of Gastrointestinal, Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital (Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University), 241 Pengliuyang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430060, China
| | - Tian Xia
- The Department of Gastrointestinal, Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital (Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University), 241 Pengliuyang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430060, China
| | - Xingwang Xie
- The Department of Gastrointestinal, Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital (Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University), 241 Pengliuyang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430060, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- The Department of Gastrointestinal, Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital (Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University), 241 Pengliuyang Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430060, China
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Luu N, Zhang S, Lam RHW, Chen W. Mechanical Constraints in Tumor Guide Emergent Spatial Patterns of Glioblastoma Cancer Stem Cells. MECHANOBIOLOGY IN MEDICINE 2024; 2:100027. [PMID: 38770108 PMCID: PMC11105673 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbm.2023.100027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The mechanical constraints in the overcrowding glioblastoma (GBM) microenvironment have been implicated in the regulation of tumor heterogeneity and disease progression. Especially, such mechanical cues can alter cellular DNA transcription and give rise to a subpopulation of tumor cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs). These CSCs with stem-like properties are critical drivers of tumorigenesis, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Yet, the biophysical and molecular machinery underlying the emergence of CSCs in tumor remained unexplored. This work employed a two-dimensional micropatterned multicellular model to examine the impact of mechanical constraints arisen from geometric confinement on the emergence and spatial patterning of CSCs in GBM tumor. Our study identified distinct spatial distributions of GBM CSCs in different geometric patterns, where CSCs mostly emerged in the peripheral regions. The spatial pattern of CSCs was found to correspond to the gradients of mechanical stresses resulted from the interplay between the cell-ECM and cell-cell interactions within the confined environment. Further mechanistic study highlighted a Piezo1-RhoA-focal adhesion signaling axis in regulating GBM cell mechanosensing and the subsequent CSC phenotypic transformation. These findings provide new insights into the biophysical origin of the unique spatial pattern of CSCs in GBM tumor and offer potential avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc Luu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Shuhao Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Raymond H. W. Lam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiqiang Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
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10
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Alam S, Giri PK. Novel players in the development of chemoresistance in ovarian cancer: ovarian cancer stem cells, non-coding RNA and nuclear receptors. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2024; 7:6. [PMID: 38434767 PMCID: PMC10905178 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) ranks as the fifth leading factor for female mortality globally, with a substantial burden of new cases and mortality recorded annually. Survival rates vary significantly based on the stage of diagnosis, with advanced stages posing significant challenges to treatment. OC is primarily categorized as epithelial, constituting approximately 90% of cases, and correct staging is essential for tailored treatment. The debulking followed by chemotherapy is the prevailing treatment, involving platinum-based drugs in combination with taxanes. However, the efficacy of chemotherapy is hindered by the development of chemoresistance, both acquired during treatment (acquired chemoresistance) and intrinsic to the patient (intrinsic chemoresistance). The emergence of chemoresistance leads to increased mortality rates, with many advanced patients experiencing disease relapse shortly after initial treatment. This review delves into the multifactorial nature of chemoresistance in OC, addressing mechanisms involving transport systems, apoptosis, DNA repair, and ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs). While previous research has identified genes associated with these mechanisms, the regulatory roles of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) and nuclear receptors in modulating gene expression to confer chemoresistance have remained poorly understood and underexplored. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the genes linked to different chemoresistance mechanisms in OC and their intricate regulation by ncRNA and nuclear receptors. Specifically, we examine how these molecular players influence the chemoresistance mechanism. By exploring the interplay between these factors and gene expression regulation, this review seeks to provide a comprehensive mechanism driving chemoresistance in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pankaj Kumar Giri
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, South Asian University, New Delhi 110068, India
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Hasan A, Khan NA, Uddin S, Khan AQ, Steinhoff M. Deregulated transcription factors in the emerging cancer hallmarks. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 98:31-50. [PMID: 38123029 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cancer progression is a multifaceted process that entails several stages and demands the persistent expression or activation of transcription factors (TFs) to facilitate growth and survival. TFs are a cluster of proteins with DNA-binding domains that attach to promoter or enhancer DNA strands to start the transcription of genes by collaborating with RNA polymerase and other supporting proteins. They are generally acknowledged as the major regulatory molecules that coordinate biological homeostasis and the appropriate functioning of cellular components, subsequently contributing to human physiology. TFs proteins are crucial for controlling transcription during the embryonic stage and development, and the stability of different cell types depends on how they function in different cell types. The development and progression of cancer cells and tumors might be triggered by any anomaly in transcription factor function. It has long been acknowledged that cancer development is accompanied by the dysregulated activity of TF alterations which might result in faulty gene expression. Recent studies have suggested that dysregulated transcription factors play a major role in developing various human malignancies by altering and rewiring metabolic processes, modifying the immune response, and triggering oncogenic signaling cascades. This review emphasizes the interplay between TFs involved in metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming, evading immune attacks, cellular senescence, and the maintenance of cancer stemness in cancerous cells. The insights presented herein will facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic modalities to tackle the dysregulated transcription factors underlying cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Naushad Ahmad Khan
- Department of Surgery, Trauma and Vascular Surgery Clinical Research, Hamad General Hospital, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar.
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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12
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Zhu Y, Xia T, Chen DQ, Xiong X, Shi L, Zuo Y, Xiao H, Liu L. Promising role of protein arginine methyltransferases in overcoming anti-cancer drug resistance. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 72:101016. [PMID: 37980859 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.101016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance remains a major challenge in cancer treatment, necessitating the development of novel strategies to overcome it. Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) are enzymes responsible for epigenetic arginine methylation, which regulates various biological and pathological processes, as a result, they are attractive therapeutic targets for overcoming anti-cancer drug resistance. The ongoing development of small molecules targeting PRMTs has resulted in the generation of chemical probes for modulating most PRMTs and facilitated clinical treatment for the most advanced oncology targets, including PRMT1 and PRMT5. In this review, we summarize various mechanisms underlying protein arginine methylation and the roles of specific PRMTs in driving cancer drug resistance. Furthermore, we highlight the potential clinical implications of PRMT inhibitors in decreasing cancer drug resistance. PRMTs promote the formation and maintenance of drug-tolerant cells via several mechanisms, including altered drug efflux transporters, autophagy, DNA damage repair, cancer stem cell-related function, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and disordered tumor microenvironment. Multiple preclinical and ongoing clinical trials have demonstrated that PRMT inhibitors, particularly PRMT5 inhibitors, can sensitize cancer cells to various anti-cancer drugs, including chemotherapeutic, targeted therapeutic, and immunotherapeutic agents. Combining PRMT inhibitors with existing anti-cancer strategies will be a promising approach for overcoming anti-cancer drug resistance. Furthermore, enhanced knowledge of the complex functions of arginine methylation and PRMTs in drug resistance will guide the future development of PRMT inhibitors and may help identify new clinical indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxia Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tong Xia
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Da-Qian Chen
- Department of Medicine Oncology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen 518110, China
| | - Xia Xiong
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Lihong Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yueqi Zuo
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Institute of Basic Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China.
| | - Hongtao Xiao
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China.
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13
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Almási S, Nagy Á, Krenács T, Lantos T, Zombori T, Cserni G. The prognostic value of stem cell markers in triple-negative breast cancer. Pathol Oncol Res 2023; 29:1611365. [PMID: 38188613 PMCID: PMC10766821 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2023.1611365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Among the many consecutive theories of cancer, the stem cell theory is currently the most accepted one. Cancer stem cells are located in small niches with specific environment, renew themselves and are believed to be responsible for many recurrences. They can be highlighted with stem cell markers, but often these markers also label tumor cells, and this may represent a phenotypical change associated with prognosis. In this study, we attempted to match tumor outcomes with the expression of the following stem cell markers: ALDH1, AnnexinA1, CD44, CD117, CD166, Nanog and oct-4. Tissue microarray blocks from triple-negative breast cancers were immunostained for the listed markers, and their expression by the majority of tumor cells (diffuse positivity) was correlated with prognosis. Of the 106 tumors investigated, diffuse positivity was seen in 7 (ALDH1), 33 (AnnexinA1), 53 (CD44), 44 (CD117 membranous only), 49 (CD117), 72 (CD166), 19 (Nanog), and 11 (oct-4) cases. With a median follow-up of 83 months, ALDH1 and CD117 expression was associated with DFS, whereas CD44, CD117 and CD166 were associated with OS estimates, based on Kaplan-Meier analyses. In the multivariate Cox proportional hazard models (including the examined markers and clinicopathological data which had a statistical impact in the univariate analysis), the pN category and the lack of ALDH1 expression were independent prognosticators for DFS, and the pN category and diffuse CD44 staining were independent prognosticators for OS. In the multivariate analysis including all of the examined clinicopathological data and markers, only CD117 showed a statistical impact on OS. We failed to demonstrate a prognostic impact for most stem cell markers tested in triple-negative breast cancer, but lack of ALDH1 staining and CD44 expression appears as of prognostic value, requiring further examination in independent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szintia Almási
- Department of Pathology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical Centre, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Nagy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Krenács
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Lantos
- Department of Medical Physics and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Zombori
- Department of Pathology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical Centre, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Cserni
- Department of Pathology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical Centre, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Pathology, Bács-Kiskun County Teaching Hospital, Kecskemét, Hungary
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14
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Chang Y, Chen L, Tang J, Chen G, Ji J, Xu M. USP7-mediated JUND suppresses RCAN2 transcription and elevates NFATC1 to enhance stem cell property in colorectal cancer. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:3121-3140. [PMID: 37535148 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-023-09822-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) encompass a subset of highly aggressive tumor cells that are involved in tumor initiation and progression. This study investigates the function of regulator of calcineurin 2 (RCAN2) in the stem cell property in colorectal cancer (CRC). By analyzing four GEO datasets, we obtained RCAN2 as a stemness-related gene in CRC. RCAN2 was poorly expressed in CRC tissues and cells, especially in CSCs. RCAN2 restoration reduced calcineurin activity and promoted phosphorylation and degradation of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATC1) protein, leading to reduced stemness of CSCs. JunD proto-oncogene (JUND), whose protein level was increased in CRC samples and CRC stem cells, bound to RCAN2 and suppressed its transcription. The abundant ubiquitin specific peptidase 7 (USP7) in CSCs enhanced JUND protein stability through deubiquitination modification. Lentivirus-mediated knockdown of USP7 or JUND also blocked the calcineurin-NFATC1 signaling and reduced the protein levels of stemness-related proteins. Moreover, the USP7 knockdown weakened the colony/sphere formation ability as well as the tumorigenicity of CSCs, and it reduced the CSC content in xenograft tumors. However, further restoration of JUND rescued the stemness of the CSCs. Overall, this study demonstrates that USP7-mediated JUND suppresses RCAN2 transcription and activates NFATC1 to enhance stem cell property in CRC. 1. RCAN2 is poorly expressed in CRC tissues and cells and especially in CSCs. 2. RCAN2 reduces stemness of CSCs by blocking calcineurin-NFATC1 signal transduction. 3. JUND binds to RCAN2 promoter to suppresses RCAN2 transcription. 4. USP7 enhances JUND protein stability via deubiquitination modification. 5. Downregulation of USP7 or JUND restores RCAN2 level and suppresses stemness of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunli Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoyu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China
| | - Jieru Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital, No. 490, Chuanhuan South Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201299, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Faghihkhorasani A, Dalvand A, Derafsh E, Tavakoli F, Younis NK, Yasamineh S, Gholizadeh O, Shokri P. The role of oncolytic virotherapy and viral oncogenes in the cancer stem cells: a review of virus in cancer stem cells. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:250. [PMID: 37880659 PMCID: PMC10599042 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03099-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) are the main "seeds" for the initiation, growth, metastasis, and recurrence of tumors. According to many studies, several viral infections, including the human papillomaviruses, hepatitis B virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and hepatitis C virus, promote the aggressiveness of cancer by encouraging the development of CSC features. Therefore, a better method for the targeted elimination of CSCs and knowledge of their regulatory mechanisms in human carcinogenesis may lead to the development of a future tool for the management and treatment of cancer. Oncolytic viruses (OVs), which include the herpes virus, adenovirus, vaccinia, and reovirus, are also a new class of cancer therapeutics that have favorable properties such as selective replication in tumor cells, delivery of numerous eukaryotic transgene payloads, induction of immunogenic cell death and promotion of antitumor immunity, as well as a tolerable safety profile that essentially differs from that of other cancer therapeutics. The effects of viral infection on the development of CSCs and the suppression of CSCs by OV therapy were examined in this paper. The purpose of this review is to investigate the dual role of viruses in CSCs (oncolytic virotherapy and viral oncogenes).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alaleh Dalvand
- Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Derafsh
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Windsor University School of Medicine, Brighton's Estate, Cayton, St. Kitts And Nevis
| | - Farnaz Tavakoli
- Nephrology and Transplantation Ward, Shariati Hospital Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Saman Yasamineh
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Pooria Shokri
- Department of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical Science, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
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16
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Zaarour RF, Ribeiro M, Azzarone B, Kapoor S, Chouaib S. Tumor microenvironment-induced tumor cell plasticity: relationship with hypoxic stress and impact on tumor resistance. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1222575. [PMID: 37886168 PMCID: PMC10598765 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1222575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of tumor interaction with stromal components during carcinogenesis is crucial for the design of efficient cancer treatment approaches. It is widely admitted that tumor hypoxic stress is associated with tumor aggressiveness and thus impacts susceptibility and resistance to different types of treatments. Notable biological processes that hypoxia functions in include its regulation of tumor heterogeneity and plasticity. While hypoxia has been reported as a major player in tumor survival and dissemination regulation, the significance of hypoxia inducible factors in cancer stem cell development remains poorly understood. Several reports indicate that the emergence of cancer stem cells in addition to their phenotype and function within a hypoxic tumor microenvironment impacts cancer progression. In this respect, evidence showed that cancer stem cells are key elements of intratumoral heterogeneity and more importantly are responsible for tumor relapse and escape to treatments. This paper briefly reviews our current knowledge of the interaction between tumor hypoxic stress and its role in stemness acquisition and maintenance. Our review extensively covers the influence of hypoxia on the formation and maintenance of cancer stem cells and discusses the potential of targeting hypoxia-induced alterations in the expression and function of the so far known stem cell markers in cancer therapy approaches. We believe that a better and integrated understanding of the effect of hypoxia on stemness during carcinogenesis might lead to new strategies for exploiting hypoxia-associated pathways and their targeting in the clinical setting in order to overcome resistance mechanisms. More importantly, at the present time, efforts are oriented towards the design of innovative therapeutical approaches that specifically target cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- RF. Zaarour
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - M. Ribeiro
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - B. Azzarone
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - S. Kapoor
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - S. Chouaib
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- INSERM UMR 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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17
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Lambis-Anaya L, Fernández-Ruiz M, Liscano Y, Suarez-Causado A. High OCT4 Expression Might Be Associated with an Aggressive Phenotype in Rectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3740. [PMID: 37509401 PMCID: PMC10378144 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Rectal cancer (RC) is one of the most common malignant neoplasms, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) of the intestinal tract have been implicated in its origin. The oncofetal protein OCT4 has been linked to neoplastic processes, but its role and clinical significance in RC are unknown. This study investigates the expression of the stem cell marker OCT4 related to clinical-pathological characteristics and its clinical significance in RC patients. The expression level of stem cell marker OCT4 was analyzed in 22 primary rectal tumors by western blot. The association between OCT4 protein expression and the clinical-pathological features of tumors was evaluated by χ2 test and Fisher's exact test. We demonstrated that the expression of the stem cell marker OCT4 was observed in tumor tissue but not adjacent non-tumor tissue. High expression of the stem cell marker OCT4 was significantly associated with histological differentiation grade (p = 0.039), tumor invasion level (p = 0.004), lymph node involvement (p = 0.044), tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage (p = 0.002), and clinical stage (p = 0.021). These findings suggest that high OCT4 expression is associated with a more aggressive RC phenotype, with a greater likelihood of progression and metastasis. These results shed light on the importance of targeting this CSC marker to attenuate RC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Lambis-Anaya
- Grupo Prometeus & Biomedicina Aplicada a las Ciencias Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena 130014, Colombia
| | - Mashiel Fernández-Ruiz
- Grupo Prometeus & Biomedicina Aplicada a las Ciencias Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena 130014, Colombia
| | - Yamil Liscano
- Grupo de Investigación en Salud Integral (GISI), Departamento Facultad de Salud, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia
| | - Amileth Suarez-Causado
- Grupo Prometeus & Biomedicina Aplicada a las Ciencias Clínicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena 130014, Colombia
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18
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Ferreira LAM, Bezerra MADS, Kawasaki-Oyama RS, Fernandes GMDM, Castanhole-Nunes MMU, Serafim Junior V, Castilho RM, Pavarino ÉC, Maniglia JV, Goloni-Bertollo EM. Effect of ZEB1 Associated with microRNAs on Tumor Stem Cells in Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065916. [PMID: 36982993 PMCID: PMC10052136 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer biologists have focused on studying cancer stem cells (CSCs) because of their ability to self-renew and recapitulate tumor heterogeneity, which increases their resistance to chemotherapy and is associated with cancer relapse. Here, we used two approaches to isolate CSCs: the first involved the metabolic enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH, and the second involved the three cell surface markers CD44, CD117, and CD133. ALDH cells showed a higher zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) microRNA (miRNA) expression than CD44/CD117/133 triple-positive cells, which overexpressed miRNA 200c-3p: a well-known microRNA ZEB1 inhibitor. We found that ZEB1 inhibition was driven by miR-101-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-144-3p, miR-199b-5p, and miR-200c-3p and that the FaDu Cell Line inhibition occurred at the mRNA level, whereas HN13 did not affect mRNA expression but decreased protein levels. Furthermore, we demonstrated the ability of the ZEB1 inhibitor miRNAs to modulate CSC-related genes, such as TrkB, ALDH, NANOG, and HIF1A, using transfection technology. We showed that ALDH was upregulated upon ZEB1-suppressed miRNA transfection (Mann-Whitney ** p101 = 0.009, t-test ** p139 = 0.009, t-test ** p144 = 0.002, and t-test *** p199 = 0.0006). Overall, our study enabled an improved understanding of the role of ZEB1-suppressed miRNAs in CSC biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia Antunes Muniz Ferreira
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Antonia Dos Santos Bezerra
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosa Sayoko Kawasaki-Oyama
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Maria de Mendonça Fernandes
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Márcia Maria Urbanin Castanhole-Nunes
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vilson Serafim Junior
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rogério Moraes Castilho
- Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Érika Cristina Pavarino
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Victor Maniglia
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eny Maria Goloni-Bertollo
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Research Unit (UPGEM), Medical School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, São Paulo, Brazil
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19
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Losada-García A, Salido-Guadarrama I, Cortes-Ramirez SA, Cruz-Burgos M, Morales-Pacheco M, Vazquez-Santillan K, Rodriguez-Martinez G, González-Ramírez I, Gonzalez-Covarrubias V, Perez-Plascencia C, Rodríguez-Dorantes M. SFRP1 induces a stem cell phenotype in prostate cancer cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1096923. [PMID: 36968194 PMCID: PMC10033548 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1096923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks second in incidence and sixth in deaths globally. The treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) continues to be a significant clinical problem. Emerging evidence suggests that prostate cancer progression toward castration resistance is associated with paracrine signals from the stroma. SFRP1 is one of the extracellular proteins that modulate the WNT pathway, and it has been identified as a mediator of stromal epithelium communication. The WNT pathway is involved in processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, cell anchoring, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation as well as the regulation of stem cell populations in the prostatic epithelium. In the present study, we explored the role of exogenous SFRP1 on the stem cell phenotype in prostate cancer. The results reveal that cancer stem cell markers are significantly increased by exogenous SFRP1 treatments, as well as the downstream target genes of the Wnt/-catenin pathway. The pluripotent transcription factors SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4 were also up-regulated. Furthermore, SFRP1 promoted prostate cancer stem cell (PCSC) properties in vitro, including tumorsphere formation, migration, bicalutamide resistance, and decreased apoptosis. Taken together, our results indicate that SFRP1 participates in the paracrine signaling of epithelial cells, influencing them and positively regulating the stem cell phenotype through deregulation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway, which could contribute to disease progression and therapeutic failure. This research increases our molecular understanding of how CRPC progresses, which could help us find new ways to diagnose and treat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Losada-García
- Laboratorio de Oncogenomica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iván Salido-Guadarrama
- Departamento de Bioinformatìca y Análisis Estadísticos, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Marian Cruz-Burgos
- Laboratorio de Oncogenomica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel Morales-Pacheco
- Laboratorio de Oncogenomica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Imelda González-Ramírez
- Departamento de Atención a la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Xochimilco, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Carlos Perez-Plascencia
- Unidad de Genómica y Cáncer, Subdirección de Investigación Básica, INCan, SSA and Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Rodríguez-Dorantes
- Laboratorio de Oncogenomica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genomica, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Mauricio Rodríguez-Dorantes,
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20
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Zhang L, Wu J, Wu Q, Zhang X, Lin S, Ran W, Zhu L, Tang C, Wang X. Sex steroid axes in determining male predominance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2023; 555:216037. [PMID: 36563929 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.216037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death. The mechanisms for male propensity in HCC incidence, prognosis and treatment responses are complicated and remain inconclusive. Sex-biased molecular signatures in carcinogenesis, viral infections and immune responses have been studied predominantly within the context of sex hormones effects. This review integrates current knowledge on the mechanisms through which the hormones regulate HCC development in sexually dimorphic fashion. Firstly, the androgen/androgen receptor (AR) accelerate cell proliferation and virus infection, especially during the initial stage of HCC, while estrogen/estrogen receptor (ER) function in an opposite way to induce cell apoptosis and immune responses. Interestingly, the controversial effects of AR in late stage of HCC metastasis are summarized and the reasons are attributed to inconsistent cancer grading or experimental models between the studies. In addition, the new insights into these intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphism are fully discussed. A detailed understanding of sex hormones-associated regulation to male predominance in HCC may help to develop personalized therapeutic strategies in high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - JinFeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - QiuMei Wu
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - XiangJuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - ShuaiCai Lin
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - WanLi Ran
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - ChengYan Tang
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Ministry of Education), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
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21
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AT7867 Inhibits the Growth of Colorectal Cancer Stem-Like Cells and Stemness by Regulating the Stem Cell Maintenance Factor Ascl2 and Akt Signaling. Stem Cells Int 2023; 2023:4199052. [PMID: 36824410 PMCID: PMC9943616 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4199052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the core factors leading to recurrence, insensitivity to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and immunotherapy resistance in patients with colorectal cancer. AT7867, a potent oral AKT inhibitor, was found to have antitumor activity in colorectal cancer; however, the effect on colorectal cancer stem cells is still unclear. This study was conducted to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying the CSC growth inhibitory effects of AT7867. We cultured colorectal cancer cells (CRCs) in a serum-free medium and enriched colorectal cancer stem cells. Subsequently, the effects of AT7867 on CSCs were analyzed by CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence assays. The results indicated that AT7867 induces G2/M phase arrest and cell apoptosis in cancer stem cells. Subsequently, we identified Ascl2 as the main gene affecting the stemness of colorectal cancer in AT7867 by RNA sequencing. The current study showed that Ascl2 is involved in the metastasis, invasion, and proliferation of CRCs. The next experiments demonstrated that overexpression of Ascl2 did affect the therapeutic effect of AT7867 on CRC stemness. Furthermore, compared with other Akt inhibitors, AT7867 could promote the differentiation of colorectal cancer stem cells. Thus, AT7867 might be a potential antitumor drug candidate to treat CRC by targeting CSCs.
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22
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Tsochantaridis I, Roupas A, Mohlin S, Pappa A, Voulgaridou GP. The Concept of Cancer Stem Cells: Elaborating on ALDH1B1 as an Emerging Marker of Cancer Progression. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:life13010197. [PMID: 36676146 PMCID: PMC9863106 DOI: 10.3390/life13010197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a multifactorial, complex disease exhibiting extraordinary phenotypic plasticity and diversity. One of the greatest challenges in cancer treatment is intratumoral heterogeneity, which obstructs the efficient eradication of the tumor. Tumor heterogeneity is often associated with the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), a cancer cell sub-population possessing a panel of stem-like properties, such as a self-renewal ability and multipotency potential. CSCs are associated with enhanced chemoresistance due to the enhanced efflux of chemotherapeutic agents and the existence of powerful antioxidant and DNA damage repair mechanisms. The distinctive characteristics of CSCs make them ideal targets for clinical therapeutic approaches, and the identification of efficient and specific CSCs biomarkers is of utmost importance. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) comprise a wide superfamily of metabolic enzymes that, over the last years, have gained increasing attention due to their association with stem-related features in a wide panel of hematopoietic malignancies and solid cancers. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1B1 (ALDH1B1) is an isoform that has been characterized as a marker of colon cancer progression, while various studies suggest its importance in additional malignancies. Here, we review the basic concepts related to CSCs and discuss the potential role of ALDH1B1 in cancer development and its contribution to the CSC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Tsochantaridis
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Angelos Roupas
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Sofie Mohlin
- Division of Pediatrics, Clinical Sciences, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University Cancer Center, 22384 Lund, Sweden
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgia-Persephoni Voulgaridou
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
- Correspondence:
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23
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Abd El-Fattah EE. Tumor lysis syndrome promotes cancer chemoresistance and relapse through AMPK inhibition. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109568. [PMID: 36527883 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a disease caused when cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues. There are different therapeutic modalities that control cancer growth, of which surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment approach in which medications are used to inhibit cell proliferation and tumor multiplication, thus avoiding invasion and metastasis and thus eradicate cancer. One of the common complications associated with cancer chemotherapy is rapid lysis of expanding tumor cells, known as tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). TLS is associated with number of metabolic changes such as hyperuricemia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypocalcemia. Among the consequences of hyperuricemia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypocalcemia is the inhibition of 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Inhibition of AMPK induced different cancer chemo-resistance mechanisms such as cancer stem cells (CSCs), p-glycoproteins, Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT-4), homeobox protein NANOG, Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and immune microenvironment and thus leads to poor response to chemotherapy and even relapses after treatment. Our review aims to uncover new mechanisms underlying the metabolic consequences of tumor lysis on AMPK in tumor microenvironment. In this review, we also investigated the effect of AMPK on different cancer chemo-resistance mechanisms such as cancer stem cells, p-glycoproteins, OCT-4, NANOG, KLF4 and immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eslam E Abd El-Fattah
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt.
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24
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Tsolou A, Koparanis D, Lamprou I, Giatromanolaki A, Koukourakis MI. Increased glucose influx and glycogenesis in lung cancer cells surviving after irradiation. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:692-701. [PMID: 35976051 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2113837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lung cancer is considered as one of the most frequent malignancies worldwide. Radiotherapy is the main treatment modality applied for locally advanced disease, but remnant surviving cancer tissue results in disease progression in the majority of irradiated lung carcinomas. Metabolic reprogramming is regarded as a cancer hallmark and is associated with resistance to radiation therapy. Here, we explored metabolic alterations possibly related to cancer cell radioresistance. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compared the expression of metabolism-related enzymes in the parental A549 lung cancer cell line along with two new cell lines derived from A549 cells after recovery from three (A549-IR3) and six (A549-IR6) irradiation doses with 4 Gy. Differential GLUT1 and GYS1 expression on proliferation and radioresistance were also comparatively investigated. RESULTS A549-IR cells displayed increased extracellular glucose absorption, and enhanced mRNA and protein levels of the GLUT1 glucose transporter. GLUT1 inhibition with BAY-876, suppressed cell proliferation and the effect was significantly more profound on A549-IR3 cells. Protein levels of molecules associated with aerobic or anaerobic glycolysis, or the phosphate pentose pathway were similar in all three cell lines. However, glycogen synthase 1 (GYS1) was upregulated, especially in the A549-IR3 cell line, suggestive of glycogen accumulation in cells surviving post irradiation. GYS1-gene silencing repressed the proliferation capacity of A549, but this increased their radioresistance. The radio-protective effect of the suppression of proliferative activity induced by GYS1 silencing did not protect A549-IR3 cells against further irradiation. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that GYS1 activity is a critical component of the metabolism of lung cancer cells surviving after fractionated radiotherapy. Targeting the glycogen metabolic reprogramming after irradiation may be a valuable approach to pursue eradication of the post-radiotherapy remnant of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avgi Tsolou
- Department of Radiotherapy/Oncology, Democritus University of Thrace and University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Koparanis
- Department of Radiotherapy/Oncology, Democritus University of Thrace and University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Ioannis Lamprou
- Department of Radiotherapy/Oncology, Democritus University of Thrace and University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Alexandra Giatromanolaki
- Department of Pathology, Democritus University of Thrace and University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Michael I Koukourakis
- Department of Radiotherapy/Oncology, Democritus University of Thrace and University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Modulation of Spheroid Forming Capacity and TRAIL Sensitivity by KLF4 and Nanog in Gastric Cancer Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 45:233-248. [PMID: 36661504 PMCID: PMC9857986 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression of pluripotency factors, and their associations with clinicopathological parameters and drug response have been described in various cancers, including gastric cancer. This study investigated the association of pluripotency factor expression with the clinicopathological characteristics of gastric cancer patients, as well as changes in the expression of these factors upon the stem cell-enriching spheroid culture of gastric cancer cells, regulation of sphere-forming capacity, and response to cisplatin and TRAIL treatments by Nanog and KLF4. Nanog expression was significantly associated with the emergence of a new tumor and a worse prognosis in gastric cancer patients. The expression of the pluripotency factors varied among six gastric cancer cells. KLF4 and Nanog were expressed high in SNU-601, whereas SOX2 was expressed high in SNU-484. The expression of KLF4 and SOX2 was increased upon the spheroid culture of SNU-601 (KLF4/Nanog-high) and SNU-638 (KLF4/Nanog-low). The spheroid culture of them enhanced TRAIL-induced viability reduction, which was accompanied by the upregulation of death receptors, DR4 and DR5. Knockdown and overexpression of Nanog in SNU-601 and SNU-638, respectively, did not affect spheroid-forming capacity, however, its expression was inversely correlated with DR4/DR5 expression and TRAIL sensitivity. In contrast, KLF4 overexpression in SNU-638 increased spheroid formation, susceptibility to cisplatin and TRAIL treatments, and DR4/DR5 expression, while the opposite was found in KLF4-silenced SNU-601. KLF4 is supposed to play a critical role in DR4/DR5 expression and responses to TRAIL and cisplatin, whereas Nanog is only implicated in the former events only. Direct regulation of death receptor expression and TRAIL response by KLF4 and Nanog have not been well documented previously, and the regulatory mechanism behind the process remains to be elucidated.
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26
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Ervin EH, French R, Chang CH, Pauklin S. Inside the stemness engine: Mechanistic links between deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:48-83. [PMID: 36347438 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cell identity is largely determined by its transcriptional profile. In tumour, deregulation of transcription factor expression and/or activity enables cancer cell to acquire a stem-like state characterised by capacity to self-renew, differentiate and form tumours in vivo. These stem-like cancer cells are highly metastatic and therapy resistant, thus warranting a more complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms downstream of the transcription factors that mediate the establishment of stemness state. Here, we review recent research findings that provide a mechanistic link between the commonly deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. In particular, we describe the role of master transcription factors (SOX, OCT4, NANOG, KLF, BRACHYURY, SALL, HOX, FOX and RUNX), signalling-regulated transcription factors (SMAD, β-catenin, YAP, TAZ, AP-1, NOTCH, STAT, GLI, ETS and NF-κB) and unclassified transcription factors (c-MYC, HIF, EMT transcription factors and P53) across diverse tumour types, thereby yielding a comprehensive overview identifying shared downstream targets, highlighting unique mechanisms and discussing complexities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egle-Helene Ervin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Rhiannon French
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Chao-Hui Chang
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
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27
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An T, Lu Y, Yan X, Hou J. Insights Into the Properties, Biological Functions, and Regulation of USP21. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:944089. [PMID: 35846989 PMCID: PMC9279671 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.944089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs) antagonize ubiquitination by removing ubiquitin from their substrates. The role of DUBs in controlling various physiological and pathological processes has been extensively studied, and some members of DUBs have been identified as potential therapeutic targets in diseases ranging from tumors to neurodegeneration. Ubiquitin-specific protease 21 (USP21) is a member of the ubiquitin-specific protease family, the largest subfamily of DUBs. Although USP21 was discovered late and early research progress was slow, numerous studies in the last decade have gradually revealed the importance of USP21 in a wide variety of biological processes. In particular, the pro-carcinogenic effect of USP21 has been well elucidated in the last 2 years. In the present review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on USP21, including its properties, biological functions, pathophysiological roles, and cellular regulation. Limited pharmacological interventions for USP21 have also been introduced, highlighting the importance of developing novel and specific inhibitors targeting USP21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao An
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China
| | - Yanting Lu
- College of TCM, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xu Yan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China
| | - Jingjing Hou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, School of Medicine, Institute of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- *Correspondence: Jingjing Hou,
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28
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Isoliquiritigenin Inhibits Gastric Cancer Stemness, Modulates Tumor Microenvironment, and Suppresses Tumor Growth through Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 Downregulation. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061350. [PMID: 35740372 PMCID: PMC9220208 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for gastric cancer; however, the currently available therapeutic drugs for treatment have limited efficacy. Cancer stemness and the tumor microenvironment may play crucial roles in tumor growth and chemoresistance. Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) is an endoplasmic reticulum chaperone facilitating protein folding and cell homeostasis during stress and may participate in chemoresistance. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a bioactive flavonoid found in licorice. In this study, we demonstrated the role of GRP78 in gastric cancer stemness and evaluated GRP78-mediated stemness inhibition, tumor microenvironment regulation, and chemosensitivity promotion by ISL. ISL not only suppressed GRP78-mediated gastric cancer stem cell–like characteristics, stemness-related protein expression, and cancer-associated fibroblast activation but also gastric tumor growth in xenograft animal studies. The findings indicated that ISL is a promising candidate for clinical use in combination chemotherapy.
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