CDC25A is strongly associated with colorectal cancer stem cells and poor clinical outcome of patients

Pro-inflammatory responses after peptide-based cancer immunotherapy

Therapeutic vaccinations are designed to prevent cancer by inducing immune responses against tumor antigens. in cancer cells, tumor-associated antigens (TAA) or tumor-specific (mutated) derived peptides are presented within the clefts of main histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I or class II molecules, they either activate cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs), CD4+ T or CD8+ T lymphocytes, which release cytokines that can suppress tumor cells growth. In cancer immunotherapies, CD8+ T lymphocytes are a major mediator of tumor repression. The effect of peptide-based vaccinations on cytokines in the activating CD8+ T cell against targeted tumor antigens is the subject of this review. It is believed that peptide-based vaccines increased IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, and IL-12, secreting CTL line by interacting with dendritic cell (DC), supposed to stimulate immune system. Additionally, mechanisms of CTL activation and dysfunction were also studied. According to most of the data resulted from in vivo and in vitro research works, it is assumed that peptide-based vaccines increased IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, and IL-12.

The role of key biomarkers in lymphatic malformation: An updated review

The lymphatic system, crucial for tissue fluid balance and immune surveillance, can be severely impacted by disorders that hinder its activities. Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are caused by fluid accumulation in tissues owing to defects in lymphatic channel formation, the obstruction of lymphatic vessels or injury to lymphatic tissues. Somatic mutations, varying in symptoms based on lesions' location and size, provide insights into their molecular pathogenesis by identifying LMs' genetic causes. In this review, we collected the most recent findings about the role of genetic and inflammatory biomarkers in LMs that control the formation of these malformations. A thorough evaluation of the literature from 2000 to the present was conducted using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Although it is obvious that the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 mutation accounts for a significant proportion of LM patients, several mutations in other genes thought to be linked to LM have also been discovered. Also, inflammatory mediators like interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and mammalian target of rapamycin are the most commonly associated biomarkers with LM. Understanding the mutations and genes expression responsible for the abnormalities in lymphatic endothelial cells could lead to novel therapeutic strategies based on molecular pathways.

Key biomarkers in cerebral arteriovenous malformations: Updated review

The formation of vascular networks consisting of arteries, capillaries, and veins is vital in embryogenesis. It is also crucial in adulthood for the formation of a functional vasculature. Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (CAVMs) are linked with a remarkable risk of intracerebral hemorrhage because arterial blood is directly shunted into the veins before the arterial blood pressure is dissipated. The underlying mechanisms responsible for arteriovenous malformation (AVM) growth, progression, and rupture are not fully known, yet the critical role of inflammation in AVM pathogenesis has been noted. The proinflammatory cytokines are upregulated in CAVM, which stimulates overexpression of cell adhesion molecules in endothelial cells (ECs), leading to improved leukocyte recruitment. It is well-known that metalloproteinase-9 secretion by leukocytes disrupts CAVM walls resulting in rupture. Moreover, inflammation alters the angioarchitecture of CAVMs by upregulating angiogenic factors impacting the apoptosis, migration, and proliferation of ECs. A better understanding of the molecular signature of CAVM might allow us to identify biomarkers predicting this complication, acting as a goal for further investigations that may be potentially targeted in gene therapy. The present review is focused on the numerous studies conducted on the molecular signature of CAVM and the associated hemorrhage. The association of numerous molecular signatures with a higher risk of CAVM rupture is shown through inducing proinflammatory mediators, as well as growth factors signaling, Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase-extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and NOTCH pathways, which are accompanied by cellular level inflammation and endothelial alterations resulting in vascular wall instability. According to the studies, it is assumed that matrix metalloproteinase, interleukin-6, and vascular endothelial growth factor are the biomarkers most associated with CAVM and the rate of hemorrhage, as well as diagnostic methods, with respect to enhancing the patient-specific risk estimation and improving treatment choices.

6-Regioisomeric 5,8-quinolinediones as potent CDC25 inhibitors against colorectal cancers

Precise and accurate control of cell cycle progression is required to maintain cell identity and proliferation. Failing to keep it will lead to genome instability and tumorigenesis. Cell Division Cycle 25 (CDC25) phosphatases are the key to regulating the activity of the master cell cycle controller, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). Dysregulation of CDC25 has been shown to associate with several human malignancies. Here, we reported a series of derivatives of the CDC25 inhibitor, NSC663284, bearing quinones as core scaffolds and morpholin alkylamino side chains. Among these derivatives, the cytotoxic activity of the 6-isomer of 5,8-quinolinedione derivatives (6b, 16b, 17b, and 18b) displayed higher potency against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Compound 6b possessed the most antiproliferative activity, with IC₅₀ values of 0.59 μM (DLD1) and 0.44 μM (HCT116). The treatment of compound 6b resulted in a remarkable effect on cell cycle progression, blocking S-phase progression in DLD1 cells straight away while slowing S-phase progression and accumulated cells in the G₂/M phase in HCT116 cells. Furthermore, we showed that compound 6b inhibited CDK1 dephosphorylation and H4K20 methylation in cells. The treatment with compound 6b induced DNA damage and triggered apoptosis. Our study identifies compound 6b as a potent CDC25 inhibitor that induces genome instability and kills cancer cells through an apoptotic pathway, deserving further investigation to fulfill its candidacy as an anti-CRC agent.

EpCAM aptamer activated 5-FU-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in CRC treatment; in vitro and in vivo study

In this study, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) aptamer-activated nanoparticles (Ap-NPs) were synthesised to enhance treatment efficiency in colorectal cancer (CRC). PLGA [poly(d, l-lactide-co-glycolide)] copolymer was fabricated by conjugation of COOH-PEG-NH₂ to PLGA-COOH through an EDC/NHS-mediated chemistry. Afterwards, 5-fluorouracil-loaded (FU) nanoparticles were prepared using the water/oil/water double emulsion solvent evaporation method. The in vitro cytotoxicity of formulations was evaluated using the MTT assay in HCT-116, CT-26 and HEK-293 cell lines. For in vivo study, tumour-bearing BALB/c mice were established by subcutaneous injection of CT-26 cell line. The results indicated that fabricated AP-FU-NPs had 101 nm size with a spherical surface, relatively homogeneously and, satisfactory encapsulation efficiency (83.93%). In vitro experiments revealed that Ap-FU-NPs had a superior in vitro cytotoxicity than both FU-NPs and free 5-FU in CT-26 and HCT-116 cells but, were significantly low toxic against HEK-293 cells relative to free 5-FU. Furthermore, in vivo results showed no significant haemolytic effect, hepatic and renal injury, or weight loss. After treatment of various animal groups with formulations, notable tumour growth delay was observed following the order: Ap-FU-NPs < FU-NPs < 5-FU < PBS. The results suggest that AP-FU-NPs could be an effective and promising carrier for 5-FU delivery to the EpCAM overexpressing CRC cells.

Nanoparticles Containing Oxaliplatin and the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly widespread malignancy and ranks as the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality.

OBJECTIVE

Cancer patients, including those with CRC, who undergo chemotherapy, are often treated with platinum- based anticancer drugs such as oxaliplatin (OXA). Nevertheless, the administration of OXA is associated with a range of gastrointestinal problems, neuropathy, and respiratory tract infections. Hence, it is necessary to devise a potential strategy that can effectively tackle these aforementioned challenges. The use of nanocarriers has shown great potential in cancer treatment due to their ability to minimize side effects, target drugs directly to cancer cells, and improve drug efficacy. Furthermore, numerous studies have been published regarding the therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticles in the management of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

In this review, we present the most relevant nanostructures used for OXA encapsulation in recent years, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, polysaccharides, proteins, silica nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, and synthetic polymer-carriers. Additionally, the paper provides a summary of the disadvantages and limits associated with nanoparticles.

RESULTS

The use of different carriers for the delivery of oxaliplatin increased the efficiency and reduced the side effects of the drug. It has been observed that the majority of research investigations have focused on liposomes and polysaccharides.

CONCLUSION

This potentially auspicious method has the potential to enhance results and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, additional investigation is required to ascertain the most suitable medium for the transportation of oxaliplatin and to assess its efficacy through clinical trials.

A network-based pharmacological investigation to identify the mechanistic regulatory pathway of andrographolide against colorectal cancer

Traditional cancer treatments have posed numerous obstacles, including toxicity, multiple drug resistance, and financial cost. On the contrary, bioactive phytochemicals used in complementary alternative medicine have recently increased attention due to their potential to modulate a wide range of molecular mechanisms with a less toxic effect. Therefore, we investigated the potential regulatory mechanisms of andrographolide to treat colorectal cancer (CRC) using a network pharmacology approach. Target genes of andrographolide were retrieved from public databases (PharmMapper, Swiss target prediction, Targetnet, STITCH, and SuperPred), while targets related to CRC were retrieved from disease databases (Genecards and DisGeNet) and expression datasets (GSE32323 and GSE8671) were retrieved from gene expression omnibus (GEO). Protein-protein interaction networks (PPI) were generated using STRING and Cytoscape, and hub genes were identified by topology analysis and MCODE. Annotation of target proteins was performed using Gene Ontology (GO) database DAVID and signaling pathway enrichment analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia and Genome Database (KEGG). Survival and molecular docking analysis for the hub genes revealed three genes (PDGFRA, PTGS2, and MMP9) were involved in the overall survival of CRC patients, and the top three genes with the lowest binding energy include PDGFRA, MET, and MAPK1. MET gene upregulation and PDGFRA and PTGS2 gene downregulation are associated with the survival of CRC patients, as revealed by box plots and correlation analysis. In conclusion, this study has provided the first scientific evidence to support the use of andrographolide to inhibit cellular proliferation, migration, and growth, and induce apoptosis by targeting the hub genes (PDGFRA, PTGS2, MMP9, MAPK1, and MET) involved in CRC migration and invasion.

Aptamer-conjugated nanoliposomes containing COL1A1 siRNA sensitize CRC cells to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs

COL1A1 is an important extracellular matrix component that is associated with poor prognosis in cancers. In this study, As1411 aptamer-conjugated liposomes were used for targeted siRNA delivery against the COL1A1 gene in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Cationic liposomes were synthesized and siRNA loading and conjugation of aptamer were confirmed by gel shift assay and spectrophotometry method. Release of siRNA from liposomes was assessed using dialysis method. Binding and uptake of aptamer-conjugated liposomes to and into cancer cells was assessed by fluorescence microscopy and flowcytometry. Gene expression was evaluated using qRT-PCR. Cell viability, chemosensitivity and apoptosis were determined by MTT assay and Annexin/PI kit. Cellular studies showed that liposomal transfer of COL1A1 siRNA into HCT116 and HEK293 cells significantly reduced the expression level of corresponding gen and cell viability, and significantly increased the sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs while free siRNA had no such effects. Aptamer conjugation was associated with increased cellular effects in HCT116 cells, but not in HEK293 cells. Our study revealed that delivery of COL1A1 siRNA via AS1411-targeted liposomes is a promising therapeutic approach to overcome treatment resistance in CRC.

Identification of Significant Modules and Targets of Xian-Lian-Jie-Du Decoction Based on the Analysis of Transcriptomics, Proteomics and Single-Cell Transcriptomics in Colorectal Tumor

Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the third most common tumor worldwide. Ulcerative colitis (UC) could cause chronic inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum. UC is a risk factor for a high incidence of CRC, and the incidence of UC-associated CRC (UC-CRC) is still increasing. Chinese medicine prescription, Xian-Lian-Jie-Du decoction (XLJDD), has been proven its efficacy in some UC-CRC patients. However, the mechanism of XLJDD in treating UC-CRC remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of XLJDD in treating UC-CRC.

Methods

We constructed an AOM/DSS mouse model that could simulate the various stages of UC-CRC in humans. XLJDD and its 5 main components are used to treat the AOM/DSS model, respectively. With the power of high-throughput sequencing technology, we described the mechanism of XLJDD from transcriptomics, proteomics, and single-cell transcriptomics.

Results

Our results showed that XLJDD could effectively suppress the occurrence and development of colorectal tumors. Using the weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), several mRNA and protein modules that respond to XLJDD have been identified. Moreover, two essential genes, Mfsd2a and Ccdc85c, were caught our attention. They were prognostic markers in CRC patients, and their expression could be significantly modulated by XLJDD, showing their potential as effective targets of XLJDD. In addition, we also discovered that XLJDD could affect the cell composition of the colorectal tumor environment, especially in the infiltration of B cells.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that XLJDD could prevent the initiation and development of colorectal tumors by modulating the expression of Mfsd2a and Ccdc85c and reducing the infiltration of B cells in the tumor microenvironment of colorectal tumor.

A Novel Defined Necroptosis-Related miRNAs Signature for Predicting the Prognosis of Colon Cancer

Objective

This study aims at exploring the relationship between necroptosis-related miRNAs and colon cancer prognosis.

Methods

We downloaded the miRNA sequencing data from the TCGA, and eight differentially expressed necroptosis-related miRNAs were screened. Then, we used Cox regression analysis to establish a prediction model of necroptosis-related miRNA. Finally, the prognosis related miRNAs were used to predict the target genes, and functional analysis was used to explore the potential mechanism of these target genes.

Results

The miRNA-seq data of 444 COAD cases were downloaded from TCGA. We identified 8 differentially expressed miRNAs (has-miR-16-5p, has-miR-141-3p, has-miR-148a-3p, has-miR-425-5p, has-miR-7-5p, has-miR-223-3p, has-miR-200a-5p, and has-miR-500a-3p), then Cox analysis was performed for determining eight-miRNA signature prognostic biomarkers with obviously different OS. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival were 0.663, 0.653 and 0.639, respectively. The multivariate analysis also implied that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor considering other confounding factors (HR = 1.847, 95% CI = 1.197–2.848, P = 0.006). According to the Kaplan–Meier analysis, the expression of hsa-miR-500a-3p (P = 0.003), hsa-miR-16-5p (P = 0.004) and hsa-miR-148a-3p (P = 0.035) significantly affected OS outcomes. We predicted the target genes of these three miRNAs and then screened 10 hub genes (CCND1, SMAD3, SMAD2, CDK1, TGFB2, CDC25A, CHEK1, VEGFA, CCNE1, WEE1). In addition, CHEK1 was associated with the survival prognosis.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that necroptosis is closely associated with colon cancer, and the model of eight necroptosis-related miRNAs are potentially useful prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for colon cancer.