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Guan B, Li M, Cui D, Shen C, Hao Z, Li X. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma: Deciphering the role of APP within the tumour microenvironment. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18186. [PMID: 38445803 PMCID: PMC10915830 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18186] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) represents a significant challenge in oncology, primarily due to its resistance to conventional therapies. Understanding the tumour microenvironment (TME) is crucial for developing new treatment strategies. This study focuses on the role of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) within the ccRCC TME, exploring its potential as a prognostic biomarker. Basing TAM-related genes, the prognostic model was important to constructed. Employing advanced single-cell transcriptomic analysis, this research dissects the TME of ccRCC at an unprecedented cellular resolution. By isolating and examining the gene expression profiles of individual cells, particularly focusing on TAMs, the study investigates the expression levels of APP and their association with the clinical outcomes of ccRCC patients. The analysis reveals a significant correlation between the expression of APP in TAMs and patient prognosis in ccRCC. Patients with higher APP expression in TAMs showed differing clinical outcomes compared to those with lower expression. This finding suggests that APP could serve as a novel prognostic biomarker for ccRCC, providing insights into the disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. This study underscores the importance of single-cell transcriptomics in understanding the complex dynamics of the TME in ccRCC. The correlation between APP expression in TAMs and patient prognosis highlights APP as a potential prognostic biomarker. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic implications of APP in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Guan
- Department of UrologyFuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityFuyangChina
| | - Ming Li
- Department of UrologyFuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityFuyangChina
| | - Di Cui
- Fuyang Medical CollegeFuyang Normal UniversityFuyangChina
| | - Chen Shen
- Department of UrologyFuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityFuyangChina
- Department of UrologyRenji HospitalShanghaiChina
| | - Zongyao Hao
- Department of UrologyFuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityFuyangChina
- Department of Urologythe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityAnhuiChina
- Institute of UrologyAnhui Medical UniversityAnhuiChina
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Department of NephrologyFuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityFuyangChina
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Feng M, Santhanam RK, Xing H, Zhou M, Jia H. Inhibition of γ-secretase/Notch pathway as a potential therapy for reversing cancer drug resistance. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:115991. [PMID: 38135129 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism of tumor drug resistance is complex and may involve stem cell maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, the activation of survival signaling pathways, transporter protein expression, and tumor microenvironment remodeling, all of which are linked to γ-secretase/Notch signaling. Increasing evidence has shown that the activation of the γ-secretase/Notch pathway is a key driver of cancer progression and drug resistance development and that γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) may be the most promising agents for reversing chemotherapy resistance of tumors by targeting the γ-secretase/Notch pathway. Here, we systematically summarize the roles in supporting γ-secretase/Notch activation-associated transformation of cancer cells into cancer stem cells, promotion of the EMT process, PI3K/Akt, MEK/ERK and NF-κB activation, enhancement of ABC transporter protein expression, and TME alteration in mediating tumor drug resistance. Subsequently, we analyze the mechanism of GSIs targeting the γ-secretase/Notch pathway to reverse tumor drug resistance and propose the outstanding advantages of GSIs in treating breast cancer drug resistance over other tumors. Finally, we emphasize that the development of GSIs for reversing tumor drug resistance is promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Feng
- Science and Experimental Research Center of Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China; Shenyang Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Ramesh Kumar Santhanam
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Huan Xing
- Science and Experimental Research Center of Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Mingsheng Zhou
- Science and Experimental Research Center of Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China; Shenyang Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology, Shenyang 110034, China.
| | - Hui Jia
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China.
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3
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Singh A, Mishra R, Mazumder A. Breast cancer and its therapeutic targets: A comprehensive review. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14384. [PMID: 37919259 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14384] [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: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a common and deadly disease, so there is a constant need for research to find efficient targets and therapeutic approaches. Breast cancer can be classified on a molecular and histological base. Breast cancer can be divided into ER (estrogen receptor)-positive and ER-negative, HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor2)-positive and HER2-negative subtypes based on the presence of specific biomarkers. Targeting hormone receptors, such as the HER2, progesterone receptor (PR), and ER, is very significant and plays a vital role in the onset and progression of breast cancer. Endocrine treatments and HER2-targeted drugs are examples of targeted therapies now being used against these receptors. Emerging immune-based medicines with promising outcomes in the treatment of breast cancer include immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive T-cell therapy. It is also explored how immune cells and the tumor microenvironment affect breast cancer development and treatment response. The major biochemical pathways, signaling cascades, and DNA repair mechanisms that are involved in the development and progression of breast cancer, include the PI3K/AKT/mTOR system, the MAPK pathway, and others. These pathways are intended to be inhibited by a variety of targeted drugs, which are then delivered with the goal of restoring normal cellular function. This review aims to shed light on types of breast cancer with the summarization of different therapeutic approaches which can target different pathways for tailored medicines and better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Singh
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rakhi Mishra
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Avijit Mazumder
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Hossain F, Ucar DA, Monticone G, Ran Y, Majumder S, Larter K, Luu H, Wyczechowska D, Heidari S, Xu K, Shanthalingam S, Matossian M, Xi Y, Burow M, Collins-Burow B, Del Valle L, Hicks C, Zabaleta J, Golde T, Osborne B, Miele L. Sulindac sulfide as a non-immune suppressive γ-secretase modulator to target triple-negative breast cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1244159. [PMID: 37901240 PMCID: PMC10612326 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1244159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) comprises a heterogeneous group of clinically aggressive tumors with high risk of recurrence and metastasis. Current pharmacological treatment options remain largely limited to chemotherapy. Despite promising results, the efficacy of immunotherapy and chemo-immunotherapy in TNBC remains limited. There is strong evidence supporting the involvement of Notch signaling in TNBC progression. Expression of Notch1 and its ligand Jagged1 correlate with poor prognosis. Notch inhibitors, including g-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), are quite effective in preclinical models of TNBC. However, the success of GSIs in clinical trials has been limited by their intestinal toxicity and potential for adverse immunological effects, since Notch plays key roles in T-cell activation, including CD8 T-cells in tumors. Our overarching goal is to replace GSIs with agents that lack their systemic toxicity and ideally, do not affect tumor immunity. We identified sulindac sulfide (SS), the active metabolite of FDA-approved NSAID sulindac, as a potential candidate to replace GSIs. Methods We investigated the pharmacological and immunotherapeutic properties of SS in TNBC models in vitro, ex-vivo and in vivo. Results We confirmed that SS, a known γ-secretase modulator (GSM), inhibits Notch1 cleavage in TNBC cells. SS significantly inhibited mammosphere growth in all human and murine TNBC models tested. In a transplantable mouse TNBC tumor model (C0321), SS had remarkable single-agent anti-tumor activity and eliminated Notch1 protein expression in tumors. Importantly, SS did not inhibit Notch cleavage in T- cells, and the anti-tumor effects of SS were significantly enhanced when combined with a-PD1 immunotherapy in our TNBC organoids and in vivo. Discussion Our data support further investigation of SS for the treatment of TNBC, in conjunction with chemo- or -chemo-immunotherapy. Repurposing an FDA-approved, safe agent for the treatment of TNBC may be a cost-effective, rapidly deployable therapeutic option for a patient population in need of more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fokhrul Hossain
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Deniz A. Ucar
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Giulia Monticone
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Yong Ran
- Department of Pharmacological and Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Samarpan Majumder
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Kristina Larter
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Hanh Luu
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Dorota Wyczechowska
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, LSUHSC-NO, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Soroor Heidari
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Keli Xu
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Sudarvili Shanthalingam
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | | | - Yaguang Xi
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Matthew Burow
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | | | - Luis Del Valle
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, LSUHSC-NO, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Pathology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Chindo Hicks
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Jovanny Zabaleta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, LSUHSC-NO, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Todd Golde
- Department of Pharmacological and Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Barbara Osborne
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO), New Orleans, LA, United States
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Chi M, Jie Y, Li Y, Wang D, Li M, Li D, E M, Li Y, Liu N, Gu A, Rong G. Novel structured ADAM17 small-molecule inhibitor represses ADAM17/Notch pathway activation and the NSCLC cells' resistance to anti-tumour drugs. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1189245. [PMID: 37456760 PMCID: PMC10338884 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1189245] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: The outcomes of current treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are unsatisfactory and development of new and more efficacious therapeutic strategies are required. The Notch pathway, which is necessary for cell survival to avert apoptosis, induces the resistance of cancer cells to antitumour drugs. Notch pathway activation is controlled by the cleavage of Notch proteins/receptors mediated by A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM17); therefore, ADAM17 is a reliable intervention target for anti-tumour therapy to overcome the drug resistance of cancer cells. This work aims to develop and elucidate the activation of Compound 2b, a novel-structured small-molecule inhibitor of ADAM17, which was designed and developed and its therapeutic efficacy in NSCLC was assessed via multi-assays. Methods and results: A lead compound for a potential inhibitor of ADAM17 was explored via pharmacophore modelling, molecular docking, and biochemical screening. It was augmented by substituting two important chemical groups [R1 and R2 of the quinoxaline-2,3-diamine (its chemical skeleton)]; subsequently, serial homologs of the lead compound were used to obtain anoptimized compound (2b) with high inhibitory activity compared with leading compound against ADAM17 to inhibit the cleavage of Notch proteins and the accumulation of the Notch intracellular domain in the nuclei of NSCLC cells. The inhibitory activity of compound 2b was demonstrated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The specificity of compound 2b on ADAM17 was confirmed via point-mutation. Compound 2b enhanced the activation of antitumor drugs on NSCLC cells, in cell lines and nude mice models, by targeting the ADAM17/Notch pathway. Conclusion: Compound 2b may be a promising strategy for NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Chi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yamin Jie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ying Li
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Hard Tissue Development and Regeneration, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Duo Wang
- Department of Neurology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Endoscopy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mingyan E
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yongwu Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Anxin Gu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Guanghua Rong
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Pandey P, Khan F, Choi M, Singh SK, Kang HN, Park MN, Ko SG, Sahu SK, Mazumder R, Kim B. Review deciphering potent therapeutic approaches targeting Notch signaling pathway in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114938. [PMID: 37267635 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current period of drug development, natural products have provided an unrivaled supply of anticancer medications. By modifying the cancer microenvironment and various signaling pathways, natural products and their derivatives and analogs play a significant role in cancer treatment. These substances are effective against several signaling pathways, particularly the cell death pathways (apoptosis and autophagy) and embryonic developmental pathways (Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog pathways). Natural products have a long history, but more research is needed to understand their current function in the research and development of cancer treatments and the potential for natural products to serve as a significant source of therapeutic agents in the future. Several target-specific anticancer medications failed to treat cancer, necessitating research into natural compounds with multiple target properties. To help develop a better treatment plan for managing breast cancer, this review has outlined the anticancerous potential of several therapeutic approaches targeting the notch signaling system in breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, Greater Noida 201306, India
| | - Fahad Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, Greater Noida 201306, India.
| | - Min Choi
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea; Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea
| | - Sujeet Kumar Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, Greater Noida 201306, India
| | - Han Na Kang
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea; Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Sahu
- School of pharmaceutical sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Rupa Mazumder
- Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology (Pharmacy Institute), Greater Noida 201306, India
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea; Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, the Republic of Korea.
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Derkaczew M, Martyniuk P, Osowski A, Wojtkiewicz J. Cyclitols: From Basic Understanding to Their Association with Neurodegeneration. Nutrients 2023; 15:2029. [PMID: 37432155 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092029] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common cyclitols found in eukaryotic cells-Myo-inositol (MI) and its derivatives play a key role in many cellular processes such as ion channel physiology, signal transduction, phosphate storage, cell wall formation, membrane biogenesis and osmoregulation. The aim of this paper is to characterize the possibility of neurodegenerative disorders treatment using MI and the research of other therapeutic methods linked to MI's derivatives. Based on the reviewed literature the researchers focus on the most common neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and Spinocerebellar ataxias, but there are also works describing other seldom encountered diseases. The use of MI, d-pinitol and other methods altering MI's metabolism, although research on this topic has been conducted for years, still needs much closer examination. The dietary supplementation of MI shows a promising effect on the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and can be of great help in alleviating the accompanying depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Derkaczew
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
- Students' Scientific Club of Pathophysiologists, Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Piotr Martyniuk
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
- Students' Scientific Club of Pathophysiologists, Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Adam Osowski
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Wojtkiewicz
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland
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Wang H, Chu F, Zhang XF, Zhang P, Li LX, Zhuang YL, Niu XF, He X, Li ZJ, Bai Y, Mao D, Liu ZW, Zhang DL, Li BA. TPX2 enhances the transcription factor activation of PXR and enhances the resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to antitumor drugs. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:64. [PMID: 36707511 PMCID: PMC9883482 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05537-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The pregnane X receptor (PXR) is an important regulator of hepatocellular carcinoma cellular resistance to antitumor drugs. Activation of PXR was modulated by the co-regulators. The target protein for the Xenopus plus end-directed kinesin-like protein (Xklp2) known as TPX2 that was previously considered as a tubulin regulator, also functions as the regulator of some transcription factors and pro-oncogenes in human malignances. However, the actions of TPX2 on PXR and HCC cells are still unclear. In the present study, our results demonstrate that the high expression of endogenous mRNA level of TPX2 not only correlated with the poor prognosis of advanced HCC patients who received sorafenib treatment but also with expression of PXR's downstream genes, cyp3a4 and/or mdr-1. Results from luciferase and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) showed that TPX2 leads to enhancement of the transcription factor activation of PXR. Protein-protein interactions between PXR and TPX2 were identified using co-immunoprecipitation. Mechanically, overexpression of TPX2 led to enhancement of PXR recruitment to its downstream gene cyp3a4's promoter region (the PXRE region) or enhancer region (the XREM region). Treatment of HCC cells with paclitaxel, a microtubule promoter, led to enhancement of the effects of TPX2, whereas vincristine, a microtubule depolymerizing agent caused a decrease in TPX2-associated effects. TPX2 was found to cause acceleration of the metabolism or clearance of sorafenib, a typical tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) in HCC cells and in turn led to the resistance to sorafenib by HCC cells. By establishing novel actions of TXP2 on PXR in HCC cells, the results indicate that TPX2 could be considered a promising therapeutic target to enhance HCC cells sensitivity to antitumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbo Wang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Fang Chu
- Department of Emergency, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Urology, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital/Chinese PLA Medical Academy, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Li-Xin Li
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yun-Long Zhuang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Niu
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xi He
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Li
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Ying Bai
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Da Mao
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Division of Chemical Metrology and Analytical Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhen-Wen Liu
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Da-Li Zhang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Bo-An Li
- Clinical Laboratory, the Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
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9
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Den Hartog L, Asakura A. Implications of notch signaling in duchenne muscular dystrophy. Front Physiol 2022; 13:984373. [PMID: 36237531 PMCID: PMC9553129 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.984373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses upon the implications of the Notch signaling pathway in muscular dystrophies, particularly Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD): a pervasive and catastrophic condition concerned with skeletal muscle degeneration. Prior work has defined the pathogenesis of DMD, and several therapeutic approaches have been undertaken in order to regenerate skeletal muscle tissue and ameliorate the phenotype. There is presently no cure for DMD, but a promising avenue for novel therapies is inducing muscle regeneration via satellite cells (muscle stem cells). One specific target using this approach is the Notch signaling pathway. The canonical Notch signaling pathway has been well-characterized and it ultimately governs cell fate decision, cell proliferation, and induction of differentiation. Additionally, inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway has been directly implicated in the deficits seen with muscular dystrophies. Here, we explore the connection between the Notch signaling pathway and DMD, as well as how Notch signaling may be targeted to improve the muscle degeneration seen in muscular dystrophies.
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10
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Mao D, Xu M, Jiang Q, Sun H, Sun F, Yang R, Chai Y, Li X, Li B, Li Y. A Single Nucleotide Mixture Enhances the Antitumor Activity of Molecular-Targeted Drugs Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:951831. [PMID: 35833031 PMCID: PMC9271877 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.951831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
New strategies for molecular-targeted drug therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ignore the contribution of the nutritional status of patients and nutritional support to improve physical status and immunity. We aimed to elucidate the role of a single nucleotide mixture (SNM) in the anti-tumor therapy of HCC, and to explore the importance of a SNM as adjuvant therapy for HCC. Compared with a lipid emulsion (commonly used nutritional supplement for HCC patients), the SNM could not induce metabolic abnormalities in HCC cells (Warburg effect), and did not affect expression of metabolic abnormality-related factors in HCC cells. The SNM could also attenuate the lymphocyte injury induced by antitumor drugs in vitro and in vivo, and promote the recruitment and survival of lymphocytes in HCC tissues. Using HCC models in SCID (server combined immune-deficiency) mice or BalB/c mice, the SNM had anti-tumor activity, and could significantly upregulate the antitumor activity of molecular-targeted drugs (tyrosine-kinase inhibitors [TKI] and immune-checkpoint inhibitors [ICI]) against HCC. We employed research models in vivo and in vitro to reveal the anti-tumor activity of the SNM on HCC. Our findings expand understanding of the SNM and contribute to HCC (especially nutritional support) therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Mao
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Division of Chemical Metrology and Analytical Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, China
| | - Meihong Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwei Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruichuang Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yantao Chai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Boan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Li, ; Boan Li,
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Li, ; Boan Li,
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11
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Identification of Potential RBPJ-Specific Inhibitors for Blocking Notch Signaling in Breast Cancer Using a Drug Repurposing Strategy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050556. [PMID: 35631382 PMCID: PMC9146688 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is a key parameter in regulating cell fate during tissue homeostasis, and an aberrant Notch pathway can result in mammary gland carcinoma and has been associated with poor breast cancer diagnosis. Although inhibiting Notch signaling would be advantageous in the treatment of breast cancer, the currently available Notch inhibitors have a variety of side effects and their clinical trials have been discontinued. Thus, in search of a more effective and safer Notch inhibitor, inhibiting recombinant signal binding protein for immunoglobin kappaJ region (RBPJ) specifically makes sense, as RBPJ forms a transcriptional complex that activates Notch signaling. From our established database of more than 10,527 compounds, a drug repurposing strategy-combined docking study and molecular dynamic simulation were used to identify novel RBPJ-specific inhibitors. The compounds with the best performance were examined using an in vitro cellular assay and an in vivo anticancer investigation. Finally, an FDA-approved antibiotic, fidaxomicin, was identified as a potential RBPJ inhibitor, and its ability to block RBPJ-dependent transcription and thereby inhibit breast cancer growth was experimentally verified. Our study demonstrated that fidaxomicin suppressed Notch signaling and may be repurposed for the treatment of breast cancer.
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12
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Liu YY, Ding CZ, Chen JL, Wang ZS, Yang B, Wu XM. A Novel Small Molecular Inhibitor of DNMT1 Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Radiofrequency Ablation in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:863339. [PMID: 35401185 PMCID: PMC8983860 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.863339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a relatively new and effective therapeutic strategy for treating lung squamous cell carcinomas (LSCCs). However, RFA is rarely used in the clinic for LSCC which still suffers from a lack of effective comprehensive treatment strategies. In the present work, we investigate iDNMT, a novel small molecular inhibitor of DNMT1 with a unique structure. In clinical LSCC specimens, endogenous DNMT1 was positively associated with methylation rates of miR-27-3p's promoter. Moreover, endogenous DNMT1 was negatively correlated with miR-27-3p expression which targets PSEN-1, the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase, which mediates the cleavage and activation of the Notch pathway. We found that DNMT1 increased activation of the Notch pathway in clinical LSCC samples while downregulating miR-27-3p expression and hypermethylation of miR-27-3p's promoter. In addition of inhibiting activation of the Notch pathway by repressing methylation of the miR-27-3p promoter, treatment of LSCC cells with iDNMT1 also enhanced the sensitivity of LSCC tumor tissues to RFA treatment. These data suggest that iDNMT-induced inhibition of DNMT-1 enhances miR-27-3p expression in LSCC to inhibit activation of the Notch pathway. Furthermore, the combination of iDNMT and RFA may be a promising therapeutic strategy for LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, He Nan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Zhi Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, He Nan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jia-Ling Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, He Nan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zheng-Shuai Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou Xinhua Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, He Nan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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13
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Small molecules targeting γ-secretase and their potential biological applications. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 232:114169. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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Kieran R, de Paula BHR, Hubank M, Barker A, Paterson AL, Gilligan D, Doherty GJ. Response of NOTCH1-Activated Tracheal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma to the Gamma Secretase Inhibitor Nirogacestat. JCO Precis Oncol 2022; 5:1579-1583. [PMID: 34994644 DOI: 10.1200/po.21.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Kieran
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno H R de Paula
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Early Phase Trials Unit, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Allanah Barker
- Department of Radiology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anna L Paterson
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David Gilligan
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gary J Doherty
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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15
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Liu J, Yang C, Huang XM, Lv PP, Yang YK, Zhao JN, Zhao SY, Sun WJ. Knockdown of FBI-1 Inhibits the Warburg Effect and Enhances the Sensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Molecular Targeted Agents via miR-3692/HIF-1α. Front Oncol 2021; 11:796839. [PMID: 34869045 PMCID: PMC8633402 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.796839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription suppressor factor FBI-1 (the factor that binds to inducer of short transcripts-1) is an important regulator of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this work, the results showed that FBI-1 promoted the Warburg effect and enhances the resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to molecular targeted agents. Knockdown of FBI-1 via its small-interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibited the ATP level, lactate productions, glucose uptake or lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activation of HCC cells. Transfection of siFBI-1 also decreased the expression of the Warburg-effect-related factors: hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), or GLUT1, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related factors, Vimentin or N-cadherin. The positive correlation between the expression of FBI-1 with HIF-1α, LDHA, or GLUT1 was confirmed in HCC tissues. Mechanistically, the miR-30c repressed the expression of HIF-1α by binding to the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of HIF-1α in a sequence-specific manner, and FBI-1 enhanced the expression of HIF-1α and HIF-1α pathway's activation by repressing the expression of miR. By modulating the miR-30c/HIF-1α, FBI-1 promoted the Warburg effect or the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of HCC cells and promoted the resistance of HCC cells to molecular targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Liu
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Huang
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Pan-Pan Lv
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Kun Yang
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Na Zhao
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Yuan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Huicheng Medical Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Wan-Jun Sun
- Department of Hematology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
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16
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Wang JH, Zeng Z, Sun J, Chen Y, Gao X. A novel small-molecule antagonist enhances the sensitivity of osteosarcoma to cabozantinib in vitro and in vivo by targeting DNMT-1 correlated with disease severity in human patients. Pharmacol Res 2021; 173:105869. [PMID: 34481973 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Advanced osteosarcoma (OSA) is highly aggressive and can lead to distant metastasis or recurrence. Here, a novel small-molecule inhibitor/antagonist of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT-1) named DI-1 (inhibitor of DNMT-1) was explored to enhance the antitumor effect of a molecular-targeted agent, cabozantinib, on OSA cell lines. In patients with OSA, expression of DNMT-1 was negatively related with that of microRNA (miR)-34a and associated with a poor prognosis. In OSA cell lines (OSA cell line U2OS and an OSA cell line U2OSR resistance to cabozantinib), DI-1 treatment enhanced miR-34a expression by inhibiting hypermethylation of the promoter region of miR-34a mediated by DNMT-1. DI-1 enhanced the sensitivity of OSA cells (U2OS, 143B and MG63) to cabozantinib and other molecular-targeted agents by enhancing miR-34a expression and repressing activation of the Notch pathway. Mechanistically, DI-1 repressed recruitment of DNMT-1 to the promoter region of miR-34a and, in turn, decreased the methylation rate in the promoter region of miR-34a in OSA cells. These results suggest that repressing DNMT-1 activation by DI-1 enhances miR-34a expression in OSA cells and could be a promising therapeutic strategy for OSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hai Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan Province, China.
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Department of Liver Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China.
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China.
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Liver Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China.
| | - Xudong Gao
- Department of Liver Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China.
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17
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Dittmer J. Nuclear Mechanisms Involved in Endocrine Resistance. Front Oncol 2021; 11:736597. [PMID: 34604071 PMCID: PMC8480308 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.736597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is a standard treatment offered to patients with ERα (estrogen receptor α)-positive breast cancer. In endocrine therapy, ERα is either directly targeted by anti-estrogens or indirectly by aromatase inhibitors which cause estrogen deficiency. Resistance to these drugs (endocrine resistance) compromises the efficiency of this treatment and requires additional measures. Endocrine resistance is often caused by deregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and/or cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 activities allowing inhibitors of these factors to be used clinically to counteract endocrine resistance. The nuclear mechanisms involved in endocrine resistance are beginning to emerge. Exploring these mechanisms may reveal additional druggable targets, which could help to further improve patients' outcome in an endocrine resistance setting. This review intends to summarize our current knowledge on the nuclear mechanisms linked to endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Dittmer
- Clinic for Gynecology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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18
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Fornari F, Giovannini C, Piscaglia F, Gramantieri L. Elucidating the Molecular Basis of Sorafenib Resistance in HCC: Current Findings and Future Directions. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:741-757. [PMID: 34239844 PMCID: PMC8260177 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s285726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Sorafenib is the first multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for HCC and it has represented the standard of care for advanced HCC for almost 10 years, offering a survival benefit when compared to placebo. However, this benefit is limited, showing rare objective responses and a disease control rate approaching 50–60%, with most patients experiencing disease progression at 6 months. These scant results dictate the urgent need for strategies to overcome both primary and acquired resistance. Herein we report several mechanisms supporting resistance to sorafenib in HCC patients, including activation of oncogenic pathways. Among these, the AKT/mTOR pathway plays a crucial role being at the crossroad of multiple driving events. Autophagy, multidrug-resistant phenotype, hypoxia-related mechanisms and endoplasmic reticulum stress are gaining more and more relevance as crucial events driving the response to anticancer drugs, including sorafenib. Several HCC-specific miRNAs take part to the regulation of these cellular processes. Remarkably, molecularly targeted strategies able to overcome resistance in these settings have also been reported. So far, the vast majority of data has been derived from laboratory studies, which means the need for an extensive validation. Indeed, most of the possible drug associations displaying promising effects in improving sorafenib efficacy herein described derive from preclinical explorations. Notably, data obtained in animal models can be inconsistent with regard to the human disease for efficacy, safety, side effects, best formulation and pharmacokinetics. However, they represent the necessary preliminary step to improve the management of advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fornari
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
| | - Catia Giovannini
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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19
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Jiang Q, Ma Y, Han J, Chu J, Ma X, Shen L, Liu B, Li BA, Hou J, Bi Q. MDM2 Binding Protein Induces the Resistance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Molecular Targeting Agents via Enhancing the Transcription Factor Activity of the Pregnane X Receptor. Front Oncol 2021; 11:715193. [PMID: 34249768 PMCID: PMC8264664 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.715193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The MDM2 binding protein (MTBP) has been considered an important regulator of human malignancies. In this study, we demonstrate that the high level of MTBP’s endogenous expression is correlated with poor prognosis of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who received sorafenib. MTBP interacted with the Pregnane X receptor (PXR) and enhanced the transcription factor activity of PXR. Moreover, MTBP enhanced the accumulation of PXR in HCC cells’ nuclear and the recruitment of PXR to its downstream gene’s (cyp3a4’s) promoter region. Mechanically, the knockdown of MTBP in MHCC97-H cells with high levels of MTBP decelerated the clearance or metabolism of sorafenib in HCC cells and led to the resistance of HCC cells to sorafenib. Whereas overexpression of MTBP in in MHCC97-L cells with low levels of MTBP showed the opposite trend. By establishing the interaction between MTBP and PXR, our results indicate that MTBP could function as a co-activator of PXR and could be a promising therapeutic target to enhance the sensitivity of HCC cells to molecular targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyu Jiang
- Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sangzhi County National Hospital, Zhangjiajie City, China
| | - Jingdong Chu
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xuemei Ma
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Shen
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bo-An Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Hou
- Institute of Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Bi
- Endoscopy Center, Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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20
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Zhao M, Sun B, Wang Y, Qu G, Yang H, Wang P. miR-27-3p Enhances the Sensitivity of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells to the Antitumor Agent Olaparib by Targeting PSEN-1, the Catalytic Subunit of Γ-Secretase. Front Oncol 2021; 11:694491. [PMID: 34169001 PMCID: PMC8217819 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.694491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Olaparib has been used in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with BRCA mutations. In the present study, we demonstrated the effect of miR-27-3p on the γ-secretase pathway by regulating the sensitivity of TNBC cells to olaparib. miR-27-3p, a microRNA with the potential to target PSEN-1, the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase mediating the second step of the cleavage of the Notch protein, was identified by the online tool miRDB and found to inhibit the expression of PSEN-1 by directly targeting the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of PSEN-1. The overexpression of miR-27-3p inhibited the activation of the Notch pathway via the inhibition of the cleavage of the Notch protein, mediated by γ-secretase, and, in turn, enhanced the sensitivity of TNBC cells to the antitumor agent olaparib. Transfection with PSEN-1 containing mutated targeting sites for miR-27-3p or the expression vector of the Notch protein intracellular domain (NICD) almost completely blocked the effect of miR-27-3p on the Notch pathway or the sensitivity of TNBC cells to olaparib, respectively. Therefore, our results suggest that the miR-27-3p/γ-secretase axis participates in the regulation of TNBC and that the overexpression of miR-27-3p represents a potential approach to enhancing the sensitivity of TNBC to olaparib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Baisheng Sun
- Emergency Department, Fifth Medical Center of the General Hospital of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Gengbao Qu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Cancer Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy, Baoding City, China
| | - Pilin Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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21
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Zou XZ, Zhou XH, Feng YQ, Hao JF, Liang B, Jia MW. Novel inhibitor of OCT1 enhances the sensitivity of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells to antitumor agents. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 907:174222. [PMID: 34087221 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most fatal malignancies of the digestive system, and shows an especially high incidence in some regions of China. Octamer transcription factors are a family of transcription factors whose DNA-binding domain is a POU domain. OCT transcription factors (OCT-TFs) mediate maintenance of the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells. We measured expression of OCT-TFs in ESCC clinical specimens. Among the OCTs tested, OCT1 showed the highest expression in ESCC tissues. Using molecular docking, we discovered a small-molecule inhibitor, which we named "novel inhibitor of OCT1" (NIO-1), for OCT1. Treatment with NIO-1 inhibited recruitment of OCT1 to the promoter region of its downstream genes and, consequently, repressed OCT1 activation. Treatment with NIO-1 enhanced the susceptibility of ESCC cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Therefore, OCT1 may be a valuable target for ESCC treatment, and NIO-1 could be a promising therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Zheng Zou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Xiu-Hua Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Ying-Qi Feng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Jun-Feng Hao
- Department of Nephrology, Jin Qiu Hospital of Liaoning Province / Geriatric Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Bing Liang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Meng-Wei Jia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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