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Haewphet T, Parhira S, Chaisupasakul P, Wangteeraprasert A, Phoungpetchara I, Pekthong D, Kaewkong W, Jiang ZH, Bai LP, Somran J, Srisawang P. The dichloromethane fraction from Calotropis gigantea (L.) dryand. Stem bark extract prevents liver cancer in SDT rats with insulin-independent diabetes mellitus. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118516. [PMID: 38971341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand. (C. gigantea) is a traditional medicinal plant, recognized for its effectiveness in managing diabetes, along with its notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by chronic metabolic disorders associated with an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to hyperglycemia and impaired insulin response. The scientific validation of C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy offers advantages in alleviating cancer progression in T2DM complications, enriching existing knowledge and potentially aiding future clinical cancer treatments. AIM This study aimed to investigate the preventive potential of the dichloromethane fraction of C. gigantea stem bark extract (CGDCM) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC in T2DM rats, aiming to reduce cancer incidence associated with diabetes while validating C. gigantea's ethnopharmacological efficacy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats were administered DEN to induce HCC (SDT-DEN-VEH), followed by treatment with CGDCM. Metformin was used as a positive control (SDT-DEN-MET). All the treatments were administered for 10 weeks after the initial DEN injection. Diabetes-related parameters, including serum levels of glucose, insulin, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), as well as liver function enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase), were quantified. Serum inflammation biomarkers interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated. Liver tissue samples were analyzed for inflammation protein expression (IL-6, TNF-α, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)). Histopathological evaluation was performed to assess hepatic necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Liver cell proliferation was determined using immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 expression. RESULTS Rats with SDT-DEN-induced HCC treated with CGDCM exhibited reduced serum glucose levels, elevated insulin levels, and decreased HbA1c levels. CGDCM treatment also reduced elevated hepatic IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and α-SMA levels in SDT-DEN-VEH rats. Additionally, CGDCM treatment prevented hepatocyte damage, fibrosis, and cell proliferation. No adverse effects on normal organs were observed with CGDCM treatment, suggesting its safety for the treatment of HCC complications associated with diabetes. Additionally, the absence of adverse effects in SD rats treated with CGDCM at 2.5 mg/kg further supports the notion of its safe usage. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that C. gigantea stem bark extract exerts preventive effects against the development of HCC complications in patients with T2DM, expanding the potential benefits of its ethnopharmacological advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaiyawat Haewphet
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Supawadee Parhira
- Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Environmental Health and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Pattaraporn Chaisupasakul
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | | | - Ittipon Phoungpetchara
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Dumrongsak Pekthong
- Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Environmental Health and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Worasak Kaewkong
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Zhi-Hong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, China.
| | - Li-Ping Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Respiratory Infectious Disease, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, China.
| | - Julintorn Somran
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Piyarat Srisawang
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
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Shteinfer-Kuzmine A, Santhanam M, Shoshan-Barmatz V. VDAC1-Based Peptides as Potential Modulators of VDAC1 Interactions with Its Partners and as a Therapeutic for Cancer, NASH, and Diabetes. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1139. [PMID: 39334905 PMCID: PMC11430116 DOI: 10.3390/biom14091139] [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: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents current knowledge related to the voltage-dependent anion channel-1 (VDAC1) as a multi-functional mitochondrial protein that acts in regulating both cell life and death. The location of VDAC1 at the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) allows control of metabolic cross-talk between the mitochondria and the rest of the cell, and also enables its interaction with proteins that are involved in metabolic, cell death, and survival pathways. VDAC1's interactions with over 150 proteins can mediate and regulate the integration of mitochondrial functions with cellular activities. To target these protein-protein interactions, VDAC1-derived peptides have been developed. This review focuses specifically on cell-penetrating VDAC1-based peptides that were developed and used as a "decoy" to compete with VDAC1 for its VDAC1-interacting proteins. These peptides interfere with VDAC1 interactions, for example, with metabolism-associated proteins such as hexokinase (HK), or with anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. These and other VDAC1-interacting proteins are highly expressed in many cancers. The VDAC1-based peptides in cells in culture selectively affect cancerous, but not non-cancerous cells, inducing cell death in a variety of cancers, regardless of the cancer origin or genetics. They inhibit cell energy production, eliminate cancer stem cells, and act very rapidly and at low micro-molar concentrations. The activity of these peptides has been validated in several mouse cancer models of glioblastoma, lung, and breast cancers. Their anti-cancer activity involves a multi-pronged attack targeting the hallmarks of cancer. They were also found to be effective in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetes mellitus. Thus, VDAC1-based peptides, by targeting VDAC1-interacting proteins, offer an affordable and innovative new conceptual therapeutic paradigm that can potentially overcome heterogeneity, chemoresistance, and invasive metastatic formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Shteinfer-Kuzmine
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Manikandan Santhanam
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
| | - Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
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Xu Y, Yu C, Zhang H, Wang T, Liu Y, Wu L, Zhong S, Hong Z. Downregulation of Brf1 Induces Liver Failure and Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression by Promoting Apoptosis. J Cancer 2024; 15:5577-5593. [PMID: 39308682 PMCID: PMC11414613 DOI: 10.7150/jca.97277] [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: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are closely related to abnormal apoptosis. Brf1 is highly expressed in HCC and has clinical prognostic value. Here, attenuation of Brf1-induced apoptosis was found, and the related mechanism was explored. In the study, general bioinformatics data for Brf1 were obtained from The Human Protein Atlas (HPA). Analyses of the clinical prognostic value of Brf1 in HCC were performed with the Xiantao Academic web server using R software. The basic data were obtained from the GTEx database and TCGA database. Brf1 conditional knockout mice were obtained by repeated mating of C57BL/6 Brf1LoxP/LoxP and C57BL/6 NS5A-alb-Cre-ERT2 mice and verified by genotyping. Liver function measurements, hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to explore the cause of mouse death after Brf1 knockout. The Brf1 knockdown HCC cell model was generated using lentiviral vector-based shRNA transduction. Cell proliferation assays, plate colony formation assays, anchorage-independent colony formation assays and mouse subcutaneous tumor models were used to evaluate the progression of HCC. Western blot (WB) analysis, flow cytometry, and TUNEL assays were used to detect apoptosis. DNA sequencing, transcriptomics, and proteomics analyses were carried out to explore the antiapoptotic mechanism of Brf1. We found that Brf1 was highly expressed in HCC and had clinical prognostic value. Brf1 knockout led to liver failure and hepatocyte apoptosis in mice. Downregulation of Brf1 slowed HCC cell proliferation, colony growth, and mouse subcutaneous tumor growth and increased the sensitivity of HCC cells to apoptosis induced by chemotherapy drugs. The expression of Brf1 was positively related to that of the apoptosis gene Bcl-2. The sequencing, transcriptomics and proteomics analyses consistently showed that energy metabolism played an important role in Brf1 function, that protein-protein interaction was the primary mode, and that organelles such as mitochondria were the main sites. In Conclusions, downregulation of Brf1 inhibits HCC development by inducing apoptosis. Energy metabolism plays an important role in Brf1 function. These results provide a scientific basis for combating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Xu
- Key laboratory of functional and clinical translational medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian Province,China
| | - Chundong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian Province, China
| | - Hongbin Zhang
- Endoscopy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Xinglin District of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361022, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yujian Liu
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic and Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Lupeng Wu
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic and Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shuping Zhong
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Zaifa Hong
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic and Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, Fujian Province, China
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Han B, Cheng D, Luo H, Li J, Wu J, Jia X, Xu M, Sun P, Cheng S. Peptidomic analysis reveals novel peptide PDLC promotes cell proliferation in hepatocellular carcinoma via Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18757. [PMID: 39138279 PMCID: PMC11322383 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69789-3] [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: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) still presents poor prognosis with low overall survival rates and limited therapeutic options available. Recently, attention has been drawn to peptidomic analysis, an emerging field of proteomics for the exploration of new potential peptide drugs for the treatment of various diseases. However, research on the potential function of HCC peptides is lacking. Here, we analyzed the peptide spectrum in HCC tissues using peptidomic techniques and explored the potentially beneficial peptides involved in HCC. Changes in peptide profiles in HCC were examined using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Analyze the physicochemical properties and function of differently expressed peptides using bioinformatics. The effect of candidate functional peptides on HCC cell growth and migration was evaluated using the CCK-8, colony formation, and transwell assays. Transcriptome sequencing analysis and western blot were employed to delve into the mode of action of potential peptide on HCC. Peptidomic analysis of HCC tissue yielded a total of 8683 peptides, of which 452 exhibited up-regulation and 362 showed down-regulation. The peptides that were differentially expressed, according to bioinformatic analysis, were closely linked to carbon metabolism and the mitochondrial inner membrane. The peptide functional validation identified a novel peptide, PDLC (peptide derived from liver cancer), which was found to dramatically boost HCC cell proliferation through the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling cascade. Our research defined the peptide's properties and pattern of expression in HCC and identified a novel peptide, PDLC, with a function in encouraging HCC progression, offering an entirely new potential therapeutic target the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Han
- Key Laboratory for Translational Research and Innovative Therapeutics of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Daqing Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huizhao Luo
- Rehabilitation Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jutang Li
- Key Laboratory for Translational Research and Innovative Therapeutics of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaoxiang Wu
- Key Laboratory for Translational Research and Innovative Therapeutics of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Jia
- Department of Urology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Sheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory for Translational Research and Innovative Therapeutics of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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AbouSamra MM. Liposomal nano-carriers mediated targeting of liver disorders: mechanisms and applications. J Liposome Res 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38988127 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2024.2377085] [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: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Liver disorders present a significant global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of innovative treatment modalities. Liposomal nanocarriers have emerged as promising candidates for targeted drug delivery to the liver. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the mechanisms and applications of liposomal nanocarriers in addressing various liver disorders. Firstly discussing the liver disorders and the conventional treatment approaches, the review delves into the liposomal structure and composition. Moreover, it tackles the different mechanisms of liposomal targeting including both passive and active strategies. After that, the review moves on to explore the therapeutic potentials of liposomal nanocarriers in treating liver cirrhosis, fibrosis, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Through discussing recent advancements and envisioning future perspectives, this review highlights the role of liposomal nanocarriers in enhancing the effectiveness and the safety of liver disorders and consequently improving patient outcomes and enhances life quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona M AbouSamra
- Pharmaceutical Technology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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Conti Nibali S, De Siervi S, Luchinat E, Magrì A, Messina A, Brocca L, Mantovani S, Oliviero B, Mondelli MU, De Pinto V, Turato C, Arrigoni C, Lolicato M. VDAC1-interacting molecules promote cell death in cancer organoids through mitochondrial-dependent metabolic interference. iScience 2024; 27:109853. [PMID: 38784007 PMCID: PMC11112339 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The voltage-dependent anion-selective channel isoform 1 (VDAC1) is a pivotal component in cellular metabolism and apoptosis with a prominent role in many cancer types, offering a unique therapeutic intervention point. Through an in-silico-to-in-vitro approach we identified a set of VA molecules (VDAC Antagonists) that selectively bind to VDAC1 and display specificity toward cancer cells. Biochemical characterization showed that VA molecules can directly interact with VDAC1 with micromolar affinity by competing with the endogenous ligand NADH for a partially shared binding site. NADH displacement results in mitochondrial distress and reduced cell proliferation, especially when compared to non-cancerous cells. Experiments performed on organoids derived from intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in cell viability upon treatment with VA molecules with lower impact on healthy cells than conventional treatments like gemcitabine. VA molecules are chemical entities representing promising candidates for further optimization and development as cancer therapy strategies through precise metabolic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia De Siervi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Enrico Luchinat
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Firenze, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Risonanze Magnetiche di Metallo Proteine – CIRMMP, Via Luigi Sacconi 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Andrea Magrì
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Angela Messina
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lorenza Brocca
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mantovani
- Research Department, Division of Clinical Immunology—Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Research Department, Division of Clinical Immunology—Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario U. Mondelli
- Research Department, Division of Clinical Immunology—Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vito De Pinto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biology & Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Cristian Turato
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Marco Lolicato
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Lin X, Yang M, Huang Y, Huang X, Shi H, Chen B, Kang J, Ke S. Gene signatures of endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitophagy for prognostic risk prediction in lung adenocarcinoma. IET Syst Biol 2024; 18:103-117. [PMID: 38813617 PMCID: PMC11179159 DOI: 10.1049/syb2.12092] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Genes associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and mitophagy can be conducive to predicting solid tumour prognosis. The authors aimed to develop a prognosis prediction model for these genes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Relevant gene expression and clinical information were collected from public databases including Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). A total of 265 differentially expressed genes was finally selected (71 up-regulated and 194 downregulated) in the LUAD dataset. Among these, 15 candidate ERS and mitophagy genes (ATG12, CSNK2A1, MAP1LC3A, MAP1LC3B, MFN2, PGAM5, PINK1, RPS27A, SQSTM1, SRC, UBA52, UBB, UBC, ULK1, and VDAC1) might be critical to LUAD based on the expression analysis after crossing with the ERS and mitochondrial autophagy genes. The prediction model demonstrated the ability to effectively predict the 5-, 3-, and 1-year prognoses of LUAD patients in both GEO and TCGA databases. Moreover, high VDAC1 expression was associated with poor overall survival in LUAD (p < 0.001), suggesting it might be a critical gene for LUAD prognosis prediction. Overall, the prognosis model based on ERS and mitophagy genes in LUAD can be useful for evaluating the prognosis of patients with LUAD, and VDAC1 may serve as a promising biomarker for LUAD prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiong Lin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Miaoling Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yuanling Huang
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Huibo Shi
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Jianle Kang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Sunkui Ke
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Li N, Yang C, Xia J, Wang W, Xiong W. Molecular mechanisms of Codonopsis pilosula in inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metastasis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155338. [PMID: 38520835 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver cancer, one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, accounts for millions of cases annually. With its multi-target and wide-ranging therapeutic effects, traditional Chinese medicine has emerged as a potential approach for treating various tumors. Codonopsis pilosula, a traditional herb, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms of Codonopsis pilosula in regulating the inhibition of CDK1 and the modulation of PDK1/β-catenin, which are involved in hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metastasis. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS Firstly, we screened the active chemical constituents of Codonopsis pilosula and identified their respective target proteins using the Herb database. Then, we applied the GeneCards database and transcriptome sequencing analysis to screen for critical genes associated with the occurrence and development of liver cancer. The intersection of the target proteins and disease-related genes was used to determine the potential targets of Codonopsis pilosula in hepatocellular carcinoma. Protein-protein interaction analysis and GO/KEGG analysis were subsequently performed to uncover the pathways through which Codonopsis pilosula acts on liver cancer. The Huh-7 cell line, exhibiting the highest sensitivity to Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharide solution (CPP) intervention, was chosen for subsequent studies. Cell viability was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay was conducted to determine cell proliferation capacity, flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle, TUNEL staining was performed to assess cell apoptosis, scratch assay was carried out to evaluate cell migration ability, the expression of EMT-related proteins was detected and analyzed, and cell sphere formation assay was conducted to investigate cell stemness. Finally, a liver cancer animal model was established, and different doses of CPP were administered via gavage the next day. The expression levels of CDK1, PDK1, and β-catenin in mouse liver tissues were detected and analyzed, immunohistochemistry staining was performed to assess the expression of tumor cell proliferation-related proteins Ki67 and PCNA in mouse xenografts, and TUNEL staining was carried out to evaluate cell apoptosis in mouse liver tissues. After intervention with CDK1 expression, the expression levels of CDK1, PDK1, and β-catenin proteins and mRNA in each group of cells were detected using Western blot and RT-qPCR. RESULTS Through network pharmacology analysis, transcriptome sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis, 35 target genes through which Codonopsis pilosula acts on liver cancer were identified. Among them, CDK1, with the highest degree in the PPI network, was considered an essential target protein for Codonopsis pilosula in treating liver cancer. In vitro cell experiments revealed that CPP could inhibit the expression of CDK1/PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis factors, suppress cell proliferation, decrease cell migration ability, influence the EMT process, and reduce cell stemness by inhibiting CDK1 and affecting the PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis. Similarly, in vivo experiments demonstrated that CPP could regulate the CDK1/PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis, inhibit tumor growth, and induce cell apoptosis. CONCLUSION Codonopsis pilosula may inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma growth by suppressing CDK1 and affecting the PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis, limiting cell EMT and reducing cell stemness. These findings provide insights into the potential therapeutic role of Codonopsis pilosula in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Ce Yang
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Wenxiang Wang
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China.
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Tang J, Li S, Zhou Z, Wang Y, Ni D, Zhou S. MiR-3680-3p is a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer and is involved in regulating the progression of liver cancer. IUBMB Life 2024. [PMID: 38822621 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that can actively participate in post-transcriptional regulation of genes. A number of studies have shown that miRNAs can serve as important regulators of cancer cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. They can also act as markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of certain cancers. To explore the potential prognosis-related miRNAs in liver cancer patients, to provide theoretical basis for early diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer, as well as to provide a new direction for the targeted therapy of liver cancer. The miRNA expression profiles of liver cancer patients in the the Cancer Genome Atlas database were comprehensively analyzed and various prognostic-related miRNAs of liver cancer were screened out. The data was further subjected to survival analysis, prognostic analysis, gene ontology and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis, microenvironment analysis, and drug sensitivity analysis by R Language version 4.2.0. Finally, the screened miRNAs were further validated by different experiments. Thus, miNRAs involved in liver cancer diagnosis and prognosis were identified. MiRNA-3680-3p was found to be significantly different in 10 different cancers, including liver cancer, and was significantly associated with the microenvironment, survival, and prognosis of liver cancer patients. In addition, drug sensitivity analysis revealed that miRNA-3680-3p can provide a useful reference for drug selection in targeted therapy for liver cancer. MiRNA-3680-3p can serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer patients and down-regulation of miRNA-3680-3p could significantly inhibit both the proliferation and migration of liver cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Tang
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Tissue Transplantation, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Song Li
- Department of Hepatobilary Pancreatic Gastrointestinal Surgery, JinHua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Zixiao Zhou
- Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yongqiang Wang
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - DeSheng Ni
- Department of Hepatobilary Pancreatic Gastrointestinal Surgery, JinHua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Shaobo Zhou
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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10
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Zeng D, Yu C, Chen S, Zou L, Chen J, Xu L. Assessment of disease control rate and safety of sorafenib in targeted therapy for advanced liver cancer. World J Surg Oncol 2024; 22:93. [PMID: 38605359 PMCID: PMC11010384 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-024-03364-y] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The clinical efficacy and safety of sorafenib in patients with advanced liver cancer (ALC) were evaluated based on transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). METHODS 92 patients with ALC admitted to our hospital from May 2020 to August 2022 were randomly rolled into a control (Ctrl) group and an observation (Obs) group, with 46 patients in each. Patients in the Ctrl group received TACE treatment, while those in the Obs group received sorafenib molecular targeted therapy (SMTT) on the basis of the treatment strategy in the Ctrl group (400 mg/dose, twice daily, followed by a 4-week follow-up observation). Clinical efficacy, disease control rate (DCR), survival time (ST), immune indicators (CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+), and adverse reactions (ARs) (including mild fatigue, liver pain, hand-foot syndrome (HFS), diarrhea, and fever) were compared for patients in different groups after different treatments. RESULTS the DCR in the Obs group (90%) was greatly higher to that in the Ctrl group (78%), showing an obvious difference (P < 0.05). The median ST in the Obs group was obviously longer and the median disease progression time (DPT) was shorter, exhibiting great differences with those in the Ctrl group (P < 0.05). Moreover, no great difference was observed in laboratory indicators between patients in various groups (P > 0.05). After treatment, the Obs group exhibited better levels in all indicators. Furthermore, the incidence of ARs in the Obs group was lower and exhibited a sharp difference with that in the Ctrl group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION SMTT had demonstrated good efficacy in patients with ALC, improving the DCR, enhancing the immune response of the body, and reducing the incidence of ARs, thereby promoting the disease outcome. Therefore, it was a treatment method worthy of promotion and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daolin Zeng
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, 341000, China
| | - Chunlin Yu
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, 341000, China
| | - Shiyao Chen
- Jiangxi Institute of Applied Science and Technology, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330012, China
| | - Long Zou
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Jiangxi Province Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330029, China
| | - Junjun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Personalized Diagnosis and Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, National Health Commission (NHC), Jiangxi Cancer Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330029, China
| | - Linlong Xu
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Jiujiang First People's Hospital, 48 Taling South Road Jiujiang, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China.
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11
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Yu Y, Lou Y, Zhu J, Wang X. Comprehensive analysis of diverse programmed cell death patterns in the prognosis, tumor microenvironment and drug sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36239. [PMID: 38050240 PMCID: PMC10695610 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment failure in patients with liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is primarily caused by tumor progression and therapy resistance. Tumor immunity plays a crucial role in regulating the homeostasis of cells through the process of programmed cell death (PCD). However, the expression profile and clinical significance of PCD-related genes in LIHC require further investigation. In this study, we analyzed twelve commonly observed PCD patterns to construct a prognostic model. We collected RNA-seq data, genomics, and clinical information from TCGA-LIHC and GSE14520 cohorts to validate the prognostic gene signature. We discovered 75 PCD-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with prognostic significance in LIHC. Using these genes, we constructed a PCD-related score (PCDscore) with an 11-gene signature through LASSO COX regression analysis. Validation in the GSE14520 cohort demonstrated that LIHC patients with high PCDscore had poorer prognoses. Unsupervised clustering based on the 11 model genes revealed 3 molecular subtypes of LIHC with distinct prognoses. By incorporating PCDscore with clinical features, we constructed a highly predictive nomogram. Additionally, PCDscore was correlated with immune checkpoint genes and immune cell infiltration. LIHC patients with high PCDscore exhibited sensitivity to common chemotherapy drugs (such as cisplatin and docetaxel). To summarize, our study developed a novel PCDscore model that comprehensively analyzed different cell death modes, providing an accurate prediction of clinical prognosis and drug sensitivity for LIHC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youlin Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanglieguang Lou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jinlong Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
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12
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He Z, Lin J, Peng D, Zeng J, Pan X, Zheng R, Li P, Du B. Peptide fractions from Sacha inchi induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells via P53 activation and a mitochondria-mediated pathway. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2023; 103:7621-7630. [PMID: 37495560 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.12845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sacha inchi is known for its high protein content and medicinal properties. Bioactive peptides have been reported to have therapeutic potential in various human diseases. However, there is a lack of research evaluating the pharmacological value of peptides derived from Sacha inchi. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anti-hepatoma effect of Sacha inchi peptides (SPs) and their underlying mechanism. RESULTS The study found that treatment with SPs significantly reduced the proliferation of HepG2 cells by inducing apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. SPs also induced HepG2 cell apoptosis by increasing the levels of proteins such as Bax, Caspase-3 and P53. The study identified nine novel peptides in SPs, of which LLEPDVR, ALVEKAKAS and TGDGSLRPY exhibited higher cell proliferative inhibition rates compared to other peptides. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest that Sacha inchi peptides have potential pharmacological effects in the treatment of liver cancer. SPs effectively suppress the cell cycle and facilitate cell apoptosis, indicating their anti-hepatoma effect. The novel peptides identified in SPs may have therapeutic value for liver cancer treatment. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilin He
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinming Lin
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong Peng
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieyu Zeng
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangmin Pan
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Zheng
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pan Li
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bing Du
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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13
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Jia Y, Liu R, Shi L, Feng Y, Zhang L, Guo N, He A, Kong G. Integrative analysis of the prognostic value and immune microenvironment of mitophagy-related signature for multiple myeloma. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:859. [PMID: 37700273 PMCID: PMC10496355 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11371-7] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple myeloma (MM) is a fatal malignant tumor in hematology. Mitophagy plays vital roles in the pathogenesis and drug sensitivity of MM. METHODS We acquired transcriptomic expression data and clinical index of MM patients from NCI public database, and 36 genes involved in mitophagy from the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) database. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis was conducted to construct a risk score prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and receiver operation characteristic curves (ROC) were conducted to identify the efficiency of prognosis and diagnosis. ESTIMATE algorithm and immune-related single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to uncover the level of immune infiltration. QRT-PCR was performed to verify gene expression in clinical samples of MM patients. The sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs was evaluated upon the database of the genomics of drug sensitivity in cancer (GDSC). RESULTS Fifty mitophagy-related genes were differently expressed in two independent cohorts. Ten out of these genes were identified to be related to MM overall survival (OS) rate. A prognostic risk signature model was built upon on these genes: VDAC1, PINK1, VPS13C, ATG13, and HUWE1, which predicted the survival of MM accurately and stably both in training and validation cohorts. MM patients suffered more adverse prognosis showed more higher risk core. In addition, the risk score was considered as an independent prognostic element for OS of MM patients by multivariate cox regression analysis. Functional pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) based on risk score showed terms of cell cycle, immune response, mTOR pathway, and MYC targets were obviously enriched. Furthermore, MM patients with higher risk score were observed lower immune scores and lower immune infiltration levels. The results of qRT-PCR verified VDAC1, PINK1, and HUWE1 were dysregulated in new diagnosed MM patients. Finally, further analysis indicated MM patients showed more susceptive to bortezomib, lenalidomide and rapamycin in high-risk group. CONCLUSION Our research provided a neoteric prognostic model of MM based on mitophagy genes. The immune infiltration level based on risk score paved a better understanding of the participation of mitophagy in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yachun Jia
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Luyi Shi
- Precision Medical Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yuandong Feng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
- Precision Medical Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Ni Guo
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Aili He
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Guangyao Kong
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
- Precision Medical Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China.
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14
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Dutta A, Halder P, Gayen A, Mukherjee A, Mukherjee C, Majumder S. Increase in primary cilia number and length upon VDAC1 depletion contributes to attenuated proliferation of cancer cells. Exp Cell Res 2023:113671. [PMID: 37276998 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113671] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary cilia (PCs) that are present in most human cells and perform sensory function or signal transduction are lost in many solid tumors. Previously, we identified VDAC1, best known to regulate mitochondrial bioenergetics, to negatively regulate ciliogenesis. Here, we show that downregulation of VDAC1 in pancreatic cancer-derived Panc1 and glioblastoma-derived U-87MG cells significantly increased ciliation. Those PCs were significantly longer than the control cells. Such increased ciliation possibly inhibited cell cycle, which contributed to reduced proliferation of these cells. VDAC1-depletion also led to longer PCs in quiescent RPE1 cells. Therefore, serum-induced PC disassembly was slower in VDAC1-depleted RPE1 cells. Overall, this study reiterates the importance of VDAC1 in modulating tumorigenesis, due to its novel role in regulating PC disassembly and cilia length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Dutta
- Institute of Health Sciences, Presidency University, India
| | | | - Anakshi Gayen
- Institute of Health Sciences, Presidency University, India; RNABio Lab, Institute of Health Sciences, Presidency University, India
| | - Avik Mukherjee
- RNABio Lab, Institute of Health Sciences, Presidency University, India
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15
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Geng J, Wang J, Wang H. Emerging Landscape of Cell-Penetrating Peptide-Mediated Organelle Restoration and Replacement. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:229-244. [PMID: 36798470 PMCID: PMC9926530 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00229] [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: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Organelles are specialized subunits within a cell membrane that perform specific roles or functions, and their dysfunction can lead to a variety of pathophysiologies including developmental defects, aging, and diseases (cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases). Recent studies have shown that cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-based pharmacological therapies delivered to organelles or even directly resulting in organelle replacement can restore cell function and improve or prevent disease. In this review, we summarized the current developments in the precise delivery of exogenous cargoes via CPPs at the organelle level, CPP-mediated organelle delivery, and discuss their feasibility as next-generation targeting strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases at the organelle level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Geng
- Department
of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang443002, China
- Interdisciplinary
Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097Warszawa, Poland
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute
of Cell Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland21215, United States
| | - Hu Wang
- Department
of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang443002, China
- Institute
of Cell Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland21215, United States
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16
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Ye X, Li J, Liu Z, Sun X, Wei D, Song L, Wu C. Peptide mediated therapy in fibrosis: Mechanisms, advances and prospects. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 157:113978. [PMID: 36423541 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113978] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, a disease characterized by an excess accumulation of extracellular matrix components, could lead to organ failure and death, and is to blame for up to 45 % of all fatalities in developed nations. These disorders all share the common trait of an unchecked and increasing accumulation of fibrotic tissue in the affected organs, which leads to their malfunction and eventual failure, even if their underlying causes are highly diverse and, in some cases, remain unclear. Numerous studies have identified activated myofibroblasts as the common cellular elements ultimately responsible for the replacement of normal tissues with nonfunctional fibrotic tissue. The transforming growth factor-β pathway, for instance, plays a significant role in practically all kinds of fibrosis. However, there is no specific drug for the treatment of fibrosis, several medications with anti-hepatic fibrosis properties are still in the research and development stages. Peptide, which refers to a substance consisting of 2-50 amino acids, is characterized by structural diversity, low toxicity, biological activities, easy absorption, specific targeting, few side effects, and has been proven to be effective in anti-fibrosis. Here, we summarized various anti-fibrosis peptides in fibrosis including the liver, lungs, kidneys, and other organs. This review will provide a new insight into peptide mediated anti-fibrosis and is helpful to creation of antifibrotic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Jinhu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Zibo Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Xue Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Daneng Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Linjiang Song
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, PR China.
| | - Chunjie Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China.
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17
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Dang Q, Sun Z, Wang Y, Wang L, Liu Z, Han X. Ferroptosis: a double-edged sword mediating immune tolerance of cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:925. [PMID: 36335094 PMCID: PMC9637147 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05384-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The term ferroptosis was put forward in 2012 and has been researched exponentially over the past few years. Ferroptosis is an unconventional pattern of iron-dependent programmed cell death, which belongs to a type of necrosis and is distinguished from apoptosis and autophagy. Actuated by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation, ferroptosis is modulated by various cellular metabolic and signaling pathways, including amino acid, lipid, iron, and mitochondrial metabolism. Notably, ferroptosis is associated with numerous diseases and plays a double-edged sword role. Particularly, metastasis-prone or highly-mutated tumor cells are sensitive to ferroptosis. Hence, inducing or prohibiting ferroptosis in tumor cells has vastly promising potential in treating drug-resistant cancers. Immunotolerant cancer cells are not sensitive to the traditional cell death pathway such as apoptosis and necroptosis, while ferroptosis plays a crucial role in mediating tumor and immune cells to antagonize immune tolerance, which has broad prospects in the clinical setting. Herein, we summarized the mechanisms and delineated the regulatory network of ferroptosis, emphasized its dual role in mediating immune tolerance, proposed its significant clinical benefits in the tumor immune microenvironment, and ultimately presented some provocative doubts. This review aims to provide practical guidelines and research directions for the clinical practice of ferroptosis in treating immune-resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Dang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Ziqi Sun
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Libo Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
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18
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Zhou Z, Zhou P, Mu Y, Wang L, Cao Z, Dong S, Bao H, Yang B, Xin M, Li R, Ge RL, Tang F. Therapeutic effect on Alveolar echinococcosis by targeting EM-Leucine aminopeptidase. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1027500. [PMID: 36311709 PMCID: PMC9614657 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1027500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a parasitic disease caused by E. multilocularis metacestodes and it is highly prevalent in the northern hemisphere. We have previously found that vaccination with E. multilocularis Leucine aminopeptidase (EM-LAP) induced specific immune response and had an inhibiting effect on the parasites. In this study, the therapeutic effect of recombinant EM-LAP (rEM-LAP) on AE was evaluated and verified using Ubenimex, a broad-spectrum inhibitor of LAP. The results reveal that rEM-LAP could inhibit cyst growth and invasion and induce specific immunity response in BALB/c mice infected with E. multilocularis protoscoleces. The ultrasonic, MRI, and morphological results show that treatment with rEM-LAP inhibits E. multilocularis infection and reduces cyst weight, number, fibrosis and invasion. The same effect is observed for the treatment with Ubenimex by inhibiting LAP activity. The indirect ELISA shows that rEM-LAP could induce specific immunity response and produce high levels of IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, IgM, and IgA, and the serum levels of IFN-γ and IL-4 are significantly increased compared to the control groups, indicating that treatment with rEM-LAP leads to a Th1 and Th2 mixed-type immune response. This study suggests that EM-LAP could be a potential therapeutic target of E. multilocularis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zhou
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Pei Zhou
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Yalin Mu
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital DE Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenjin Cao
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Shizhong Dong
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Haihua Bao
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Baoliang Yang
- Department of ENT, Qinghai Red Cross Hospital, Xining, China
| | - Minyuan Xin
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Runle Li
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- *Correspondence: Runle Li, ; Ri-Li Ge, ; Feng Tang,
| | - Ri-Li Ge
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- *Correspondence: Runle Li, ; Ri-Li Ge, ; Feng Tang,
| | - Feng Tang
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, China
- *Correspondence: Runle Li, ; Ri-Li Ge, ; Feng Tang,
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Sawong S, Pekthong D, Suknoppakit P, Winitchaikul T, Kaewkong W, Somran J, Intapa C, Parhira S, Srisawang P. Calotropis gigantea stem bark extracts inhibit liver cancer induced by diethylnitrosamine. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12151. [PMID: 35840761 PMCID: PMC9287404 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16321-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Several fractions of Calotropis gigantea extracts have been proposed to have potential anticancer activity in many cancer models. The present study evaluated the anticancer activity of C. gigantea stem bark extracts in liver cancer HepG2 cells and diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced primary liver cancer in rats. The carcinogenesis model induced by DEN administration has been widely used to study pathophysiological features and responses in rats that are comparable to those seen in cancer patients. The dichloromethane (CGDCM), ethyl acetate, and water fractions obtained from partitioning crude ethanolic extract were quantitatively analyzed for several groups of secondary metabolites and calactin contents. A combination of C. gigantea stem bark extracts with doxorubicin (DOX) was assessed in this study to demonstrate the enhanced cytotoxic effect to cancer compared to the single administration. The combination of DOX and CGDCM, which had the most potential cytotoxic effect in HepG2 cells when compared to the other three fractions, significantly increased cytotoxicity through the apoptotic effect with increased caspase-3 expression. This combination treatment also reduced ATP levels, implying a correlation between ATP and apoptosis induction. In a rat model of DEN-induced liver cancer, treatment with DOX, C. gigantea at low (CGDCM-L) and high (CGDCM-H) doses, and DOX + CGDCM-H for 4 weeks decreased the progression of liver cancer by lowering the liver weight/body weight ratio and the occurrence of liver hyperplastic nodules, fibrosis, and proliferative cells. The therapeutic applications lowered TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β, and α-SMA inflammatory cytokines in a similar way, implying that CGDCM had a curative effect against the inflammation-induced liver carcinogenesis produced by DEN exposure. Furthermore, CGDCM and DOX therapy decreased ATP and fatty acid synthesis in rat liver cancer, which was correlated with apoptosis inhibition. CGDCM reduced cleaved caspase-3 expression in liver cancer rats when used alone or in combination with DOX, implying that apoptosis-inducing hepatic carcinogenesis was suppressed. Our results also verified the low toxicity of CGDCM injection on the internal organs of rats. Thus, this research clearly demonstrated a promising, novel anticancer approach that could be applied in future clinical studies of CGDCM and combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suphunwadee Sawong
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Dumrongsak Pekthong
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Pennapha Suknoppakit
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Thanwarat Winitchaikul
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Worasak Kaewkong
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Julintorn Somran
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Chaidan Intapa
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Faculty of Dentistry, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Supawadee Parhira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
| | - Piyarat Srisawang
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand.
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Fang Y, Liu J, Zhang Q, She C, Zheng R, Zhang R, Chen Z, Chen C, Wu J. Overexpressed VDAC1 in breast cancer as a novel prognostic biomarker and correlates with immune infiltrates. World J Surg Oncol 2022; 20:211. [PMID: 35729567 PMCID: PMC9215028 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-022-02667-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More and more evidence suggests that cancer is a mitochondrial metabolic disease recently and mitochondria dysfunction is critical to tumorigenesis. As a gatekeeper of mitochondria, the voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) is associated with the development of breast cancer (BC). However, its potential mechanism and clinical significance remain unclear; thus, in this research, we aimed to explore it. METHODS VDAC1 expression in BC tissues and normal tissues was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and validated by datasets from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Then, the relationships between VDAC1 expression and clinicopathological features were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used to identify the diagnostic value of VDAC1. The prognostic value was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression analysis. VDAC1 with its co-expression genes were subjected to enrichment analysis to explore potential mechanisms in BC and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. At last, the association between VDAC1 expression and infiltration levels of immune cell infiltration by various methods, as well as their corresponding markers, was analyzed. We also analyzed the correction between VDAC1 expression and eight immune checkpoint genes and the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) scores of each BC sample in TCGA were calculated and the differences between high and low VDAC1 expression groups were analyzed. RESULTS VDAC1 expression was remarkably elevated in BC (p < 0.001), and high expression of VDAC1 was associated with the positive expression of ER (p = 0.004), PR (p = 0.033), and HER2 (p = 0.001). ROC analysis suggested that VDAC1 had diagnosed value in BC. The Kaplan-Meier analysis suggested that higher expression of VDAC1 was associated with shorter overall survival (OS), and further Cox regression analysis revealed that VDAC1 was an independent factor of unfavorable prognosis in BC patients. Enrichment analysis of VDAC1 and its co-expression suggested that VDAC1 was related to the regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism and protein modification, and the HIF-1 singing pathway might be the potential mechanism in BC. Notably, we found that VDAC1 expression was infiltration levels of most types of immune cells, as well as the expression of marker genes of immune cells. The ICGs PDCD1, CTLA4, LAG3, SIGLEC15, and TIGIT were negatively corrected with VDAC1 expression in BC. TIDE scores between the low and high expression groups showed no difference. CONCLUSION Overexpressed VDAC1 in BC could be severed as a novel biomarker for diagnosis and VDAC1 was an independent factor for adverse prognosis prediction. Our study revealed that VDAC1 might inhibit tumor immunity and might be a novel therapeutic target in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Fang
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Junpeng Liu
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Qunchen Zhang
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Chuanghong She
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Rongji Zheng
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Rendong Zhang
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Zexiao Chen
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Chunfa Chen
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
| | - Jundong Wu
- The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 7 Raoping Rd, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
- The Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041 Guangdong China
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Yang Y, Chen HY, Hao H, Wang KJ. The Anticancer Activity Conferred by the Mud Crab Antimicrobial Peptide Scyreprocin through Apoptosis and Membrane Disruption. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105500. [PMID: 35628312 PMCID: PMC9142079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Scyreprocin is an antimicrobial peptide first identified in the mud crab Scylla paramamosain. Herein, we showed that its recombinant product (rScyreprocin) could significantly inhibit the growth of human lung cancer NCI-H460 cells (H460), but showed no cytotoxicity to human lung fibroblasts (HFL1). rScyreprocin was a membrane-active peptide that firstly induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in H460, and led to endoplasmic reticulum stress and Ca2+ release, which resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequently activation of caspase-3 cascades, and ultimately led to apoptosis. The comprehensive results indicated that rScyreprocin exerted anticancer activity by disrupting cell membrane and inducing apoptosis. The in vivo efficacy test demonstrated that intratumoral injection of rScyreprocin significantly inhibited the growth of H460 xenografts, which was close to that of the cisplatin (inhibition rate: 69.94% vs. 80.76%). Therefore, rScyreprocin is expected to become a promising candidate for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (H.-Y.C.); (H.H.)
| | - Hui-Yun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (H.-Y.C.); (H.H.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Hua Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (H.-Y.C.); (H.H.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ke-Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (H.-Y.C.); (H.H.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- Correspondence:
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22
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Lai HT, Canoy RJ, Campanella M, Vassetzky Y, Brenner C. Ca2+ Transportome and the Interorganelle Communication in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050815. [PMID: 35269437 PMCID: PMC8909868 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of liver cancer with a poor prognosis for survival given the complications it bears on the patient. Though damages to the liver are acknowledged prodromic factors, the precise molecular aetiology remains ill-defined. However, many genes coding for proteins involved in calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis emerge as either mutated or deregulated. Ca2+ is a versatile signalling messenger that regulates functions that prime and drive oncogenesis, favouring metabolic reprogramming and gene expression. Ca2+ is present in cell compartments, between which it is trafficked through a network of transporters and exchangers, known as the Ca2+ transportome. The latter regulates and controls Ca2+ dynamics and tonicity. In HCC, the deregulation of the Ca2+ transportome contributes to tumorigenesis, the formation of metastasizing cells, and evasion of cell death. In this review, we reflect on these aspects by summarizing the current knowledge of the Ca2+ transportome and overviewing its composition in the plasma membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, and the mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Toan Lai
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects Métaboliques et Systémiques de l’Oncogénèse pour de Nouvelles Approches Thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France; (H.-T.L.); (R.J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.V.)
| | - Reynand Jay Canoy
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects Métaboliques et Systémiques de l’Oncogénèse pour de Nouvelles Approches Thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France; (H.-T.L.); (R.J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.V.)
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Michelangelo Campanella
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects Métaboliques et Systémiques de l’Oncogénèse pour de Nouvelles Approches Thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France; (H.-T.L.); (R.J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.V.)
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 0TU, UK
- Consortium for Mitochondrial Research, University College London, London WC1 0TU, UK
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Yegor Vassetzky
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects Métaboliques et Systémiques de l’Oncogénèse pour de Nouvelles Approches Thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France; (H.-T.L.); (R.J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.V.)
| | - Catherine Brenner
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects Métaboliques et Systémiques de l’Oncogénèse pour de Nouvelles Approches Thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, 94805 Villejuif, France; (H.-T.L.); (R.J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.V.)
- Correspondence:
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23
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Li Y, Zhang R, Xu Z, Wang Z. Advances in Nanoliposomes for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:909-925. [PMID: 35250267 PMCID: PMC8893038 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s349426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mortality rate of liver cancer is gradually increasing worldwide due to the increasing risk factors such as fatty liver, diabetes, and alcoholic cirrhosis. The diagnostic methods of liver cancer include ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), among others. The treatment of liver cancer includes surgical resection, transplantation, ablation, and chemoembolization; however, treatment still faces multiple challenges due to its insidious development, high rate of recurrence after surgical resection, and high failure rate of transplantation. The emergence of liposomes has provided new insights into the treatment of liver cancer. Due to their excellent carrier properties and maneuverability, liposomes can be used to perform a variety of functions such as aiding in imaging diagnoses, combinatorial therapies, and integrating disease diagnosis and treatment. In this paper, we further discuss such advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology (Jilin University), School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruihang Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology (Jilin University), School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhicheng Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology (Jilin University), School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Zhicheng Wang, NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology (Jilin University), School of Public Health, Jilin University, 1163 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13843131059, Fax +86 431185619443, Email
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24
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Bakrania A, Zheng G, Bhat M. Nanomedicine in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A New Frontier in Targeted Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:41. [PMID: 35056937 PMCID: PMC8779722 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death and is associated with a dismal median survival of 2-9 months. The fundamental limitations and ineffectiveness of current HCC treatments have led to the development of a vast range of nanotechnologies with the goal of improving the safety and efficacy of treatment for HCC. Although remarkable success has been achieved in nanomedicine research, there are unique considerations such as molecular heterogeneity and concomitant liver dysfunction that complicate the translation of nanotheranostics in HCC. This review highlights the progress, challenges, and targeting opportunities in HCC nanomedicine based on the growing literature in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Bakrania
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada;
| | - Gang Zheng
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada;
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
- Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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Shoshan-Barmatz V, Anand U, Nahon-Crystal E, Di Carlo M, Shteinfer-Kuzmine A. Adverse Effects of Metformin From Diabetes to COVID-19, Cancer, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Aging: Is VDAC1 a Common Target? Front Physiol 2021; 12:730048. [PMID: 34671273 PMCID: PMC8521008 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.730048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin has been used for treating diabetes mellitus since the late 1950s. In addition to its antihyperglycemic activity, it was shown to be a potential drug candidate for treating a range of other diseases that include various cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetic kidney disease, neurodegenerative diseases, renal diseases, obesity, inflammation, COVID-19 in diabetic patients, and aging. In this review, we focus on the important aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in energy metabolism and cell death with their gatekeeper VDAC1 (voltage-dependent anion channel 1) as a possible metformin target, and summarize metformin's effects in several diseases and gut microbiota. We question how the same drug can act on diseases with opposite characteristics, such as increasing apoptotic cell death in cancer, while inhibiting it in neurodegenerative diseases. Interestingly, metformin's adverse effects in many diseases all show VDAC1 involvement, suggesting that it is a common factor in metformin-affecting diseases. The findings that metformin has an opposite effect on various diseases are consistent with the fact that VDAC1 controls cell life and death, supporting the idea that it is a target for metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | | | - Marta Di Carlo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Shteinfer-Kuzmine
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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Xu F, Li H, Pan Y, Zeng Y, Li J, Li S. Effects of Ganfule capsule on microbial and metabolic profiles in anti-hepatocellular carcinoma. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 132:2280-2292. [PMID: 34564943 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Based on the gut microbiota and plasma metabolites, the underlying mechanism was analysed for the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects of Ganfule capsule (GFL) in the study. METHODS AND RESULTS The UPLC-Q-TOF/MS results showed that 13 key compounds were identified in GFL and the major active ingredients included amygdalin, saikosaponin A, astragaloside I, etc. The nude mice received HepG2 injection, and GFL showed lower volume and weight of the tumour. In addition, the apoptosis proteins (Bax and Bcl2) were altered in response to GFL treatment, and apoptosis cells were increased, indicating an anti-HCC effect. Interestingly, 16S rDNA results showed that GFL treatment improved gut microbiota diversity and compositions, especially for the beneficial bacteria, such as Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillaceae, Firmicutes, Lactobacillus_reuteri and Lactobacillus_gasseri. Metabonomics further identified 426 metabolites and 343 metabolites variation in the positive and negative ion modes after GFL treatment, which might be associated with amino acid, lipid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism pathways, indicating these metabolites might involve in the protective role of GFL in HCC. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between gut microbiota and plasma metabolites. CONCLUSION In conclusion, GFL exerted an anti-HCC effect in the nude murine model, which might be associated with microbial and metabolic improvements. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study is the first to report the anti-HCC effect of GFL associated with gut microbiota and plasma metabolites. GFL may improve the gut microbiota structure, such as increasing probiotics - Lactobacillus. It also provides a new strategy for the scientific demonstration of the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hanyin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Pan
- Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medical Plants, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yangli Zeng
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Juan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shunxiang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Mild Hyperthermia Responsive Liposomes for Enhanced In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Efficacy of Doxorubicin against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081310. [PMID: 34452271 PMCID: PMC8400916 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study is aimed to fabricate doxorubicin (Dox) loaded mild temperature responsive liposomes (MTLs) by thin film hydration technique for enhanced in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma. The aforementioned Dox loaded MTLs were developed and optimized with extrusion and drug loading techniques. The optimized MTLs were in optimum size range (118.20 ± 2.81–187.13 ± 4.15 nm), colloidal stability (−13.27 ± 0.04 to −32.34 ± 0.15 mV), and enhanced entrapment of Dox (28.71 ± 2.01–79.24 ± 2.16). Furthermore, the optimized formulation (MTL1-E(AL)) embodied improved physicochemical stability deducted by Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and mild hyperthermia-based phase transition demonstrated from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). An in vitro drug release study revealed mild hyperthermia assisted rapid in vitro Dox release from MTLs-E(AL) (T100% ≈ 1 h) by Korsmeyer–Peppas model based Fickian diffusion (n < 0.45). Likewise, an in vitro cytotoxicity study and lower IC50 values also symbolized mild hyperthermia (40.2 °C) based quick and improved cytotoxicity of MTL1-E(AL) in HepG2 and MCF-7 cells than Dox. The fluorescence microscopy also represented enhanced cellular internalization of MTL1-E(AL) at mild hyperthermia compared to the normothermia (37.2 °C). In addition, an in vivo animal study portrayed the safety, improved anticancer efficacy and healing of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through MTL1-E(AL). In brief, the Dox loaded MTLs could be utilized as safe and effective therapeutic strategy against HCC.
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Zhang F, Angelova A, Garamus VM, Angelov B, Tu S, Kong L, Zhang X, Li N, Zou A. Mitochondrial Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel 1-Hexokinase-II Complex-Targeted Strategy for Melanoma Inhibition Using Designed Multiblock Peptide Amphiphiles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:35281-35293. [PMID: 34309373 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c04385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Targeted therapies of melanoma are of urgent need considering the resistance of this aggressive type of cancer to chemotherapeutics. The voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1)-hexokinase-II (HK-II) complex is an emerging target for novel anticancer therapies based on induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. The low cell membrane permeability of the anticancer 12-mer peptide N-Ter (RDVFTKGYGFGL) derived from the N-terminal fragment of the VDAC1 protein impedes the intracellular targeting. Here, novel multiblock VDAC1-derived cationic amphiphilic peptides (referred to as Pal-N-Ter-TAT, pFL-N-Ter-TAT, and Pal-pFL-N-Ter-TAT) are designed with a self-assembly propensity and cell-penetrating properties. The created multiblock amphiphilic peptides of partial α-helical conformations form nanoparticles of ellipsoid-like shapes and are characterized by enhanced cellular uptake. The amphiphilic peptides can target mitochondria and dissociate the VDAC1-HK-II complex at the outer mitochondrial membrane, which result in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. The latter is associated with decrease of the mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, and changes of the expression levels of the apoptotic proteins in A375 melanoma cells. Importantly, the mitochondrial VDAC1-derived amphiphilic peptides have a comparable IC50 value for melanoma cells to a small-molecule drug, sorafenib, which has been previously used in clinical trials for melanoma. These results demonstrate the potential of the designed peptide constructs for efficient melanoma inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Angelina Angelova
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institute Galien Paris-Saclay UMR8612, Châtenay-Malabry F-92290, France
| | | | - Borislav Angelov
- Institute of Physics, ELI Beamlines, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Na Slovance 2, Prague CZ-18221, Czech Republic
| | - Shuyang Tu
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute (Zhangjiang Laboratory), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Liangliang Kong
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute (Zhangjiang Laboratory), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Xinlei Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Na Li
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute (Zhangjiang Laboratory), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Aihua Zou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, P. R. China
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Middleton P, Vergis N. Mitochondrial dysfunction and liver disease: role, relevance, and potential for therapeutic modulation. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2021; 14:17562848211031394. [PMID: 34377148 PMCID: PMC8320552 DOI: 10.1177/17562848211031394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are key organelles involved in energy production as well as numerous metabolic processes. There is a growing interest in the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of common chronic diseases as well as in cancer development. This review will examine the role mitochondria play in the pathophysiology of common liver diseases, including alcohol-related liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis B and hepatocellular carcinoma. Mitochondrial dysfunction is described widely in the literature in studies examining patient tissue and in disease models. Despite significant differences in pathophysiology between chronic liver diseases, common mitochondrial defects are described, including increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and impaired oxidative phosphorylation. We review the current literature on mitochondrial-targeted therapies, which have the potential to open new therapeutic avenues in the management of patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikhil Vergis
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Dai W, Chen C, Feng H, Li G, Peng W, Liu X, Yang J, Hu X. Protection of Ficus pandurata Hance against acute alcohol-induced liver damage in mice via suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 275:114140. [PMID: 33915134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ficus pandurata Hance (FPH) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, which is commonly used for liver protection in the folk of Southeast China. However, the medicinal part and pharmacological mechanism have not been clarified yet. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the medicinal part of FPH for liver protection and uncover the potential mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Acute alcoholic liver damage (ALD) mice model induced by intragastric administration with 50% alcohol was used to evaluate the liver protection of FPH. Different parts of FPH, including the root (FPHR), stem (FPHS), leaf (FPHL), and whole plant (FPHWP), were selected to investigate the liver-protected efficacy and determine which part is the medicinal part. Acute oral toxicity (AOT) test was performed to determine the acute toxicity of FPH on Kunming mice. The liver-protected effect of FPH was determined by evaluating the liver function, liver morphological changes, and liver pathological changes. The underlying mechanism was investigated by evaluating the effect on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in liver tissues via ELISA, H&E staining, Western Blot, and TUNEL staining assays. RESULTS In the screening test for medicinal parts of FPH, all of the extracts from FPHR, FPHS, FPHL, and FPHWP could alleviate the acute ALD of mice, including reducing abnormal levels of AST, ALT, and relative liver weight. Especially, the alleviated efficacies of FPHS and FPHL were better than those of FPHWP and FPHR, showing that the aerial part (FPHAP, including the stem and leaf), is probably the medicinal part of FPH against acute ALD. In the AOT test, FPHAP at the maximum administration dosage (480 g/kg, calculated based on the quantity of crude material) did not induce obvious abnormality and death of mice, and had no significant influence on body weight, as well as the relative organ weight, showing that the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of FPHAP was 480 g/kg on Kunming mice. In the anti-acute ALD study, FPHAP significantly reduced the levels of AST, ALT, LDH, ROS, MDA, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-6, alleviated the morphology of liver injury, increased the levels of SOD and GSH, up-regulated the expressions of Nrf-2, HO-1 and NQO1, and reduced apoptosis of liver cells in acute ALD mice, indicating that FPHAP could significantly alleviate acute ALD by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS FPH could protect acute alcohol-induced liver damage of mice by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Our study provides scientific evidence for the therapeutic effect of Ficus pandurata Hance in acute ALD mice and suggests its potential development in humans for liver protection, supporting its traditional application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Dai
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Chang Chen
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Huiting Feng
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Guangru Li
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Weiwen Peng
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China.
| | - Xin Liu
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China
| | - Xianjing Hu
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, China; Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China; Biotechnological Institute of Chinese Materia Medical, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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Zhang X, Lai M, Wu D, Luo P, Fu S. The Effect of 5A nursing intervention on living quality and self-care efficacy of patients undergoing chemotherapy after hepatocellular carcinoma surgery. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:6638-6645. [PMID: 34306407 PMCID: PMC8290751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper explored and analyzed the effect of 5A nursing intervention on living quality and self-care efficacy of patients undergoing postoperative chemotherapy after hepatocellular carcinoma surgery. METHODS A total of 97 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma hospitalized from March 2017 to June 2019 were chosen as subjects and separated to the control group (n=47) and observation group (n=50) based on the admission time. The control-group received a conventional nursing care mode, and the observation-group was given the 5A nursing care mode in addition to the conventional care mode in the control group. Self-care efficacy, SF-36 quality of life, cancer-related fatigue degree and satisfaction with nursing work of patients pre- and post-intervention were compared between the two groups. RESULTS The self-care efficacy of the two groups post-intervention was critically higher than during pre-intervention (P<0.05), and the index of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). The scores in each dimension of life quality in both groups after intervention were remarkably higher than those for pre-intervention (P<0.05), and the index in observation group was notably higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Cancer-related fatigue degree of the two groups of patients during post-intervention was critically higher than those in pre-intervention (P<0.05), while during post-intervention, the index in control group was notably higher than in observation group (P<0.05). The satisfaction degree of nursing skills, service attitude, health training and hospital condition in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The model of 5A nursing intervention can ameliorate the self-care efficacy and living quality of patients undergoing chemotherapy after hepatocellular carcinoma surgery. The intervention can also help alleviate cancer-related fatigue during treatment, and improve the satisfaction degree of patients with nursing care, which is worthy of clinical promotion and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejuan Zhang
- Department of Digestive Medicine, Sanya People’s HospitalSanya 572000, Hainan, China
| | - Min Lai
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Cancer HospitalHaikou 570312, Hainan, China
| | - Donghan Wu
- Department of Digestive Medicine, Sanya People’s HospitalSanya 572000, Hainan, China
| | - Pidan Luo
- Department of Digestive Medicine, Sanya People’s HospitalSanya 572000, Hainan, China
| | - Shuixi Fu
- CT Room, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou HospitalHaikou 570208, Hainan, China
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Szabo I, Zoratti M, Biasutto L. Targeting mitochondrial ion channels for cancer therapy. Redox Biol 2021; 42:101846. [PMID: 33419703 PMCID: PMC8113036 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological targeting of mitochondrial ion channels is emerging as a promising approach to eliminate cancer cells; as most of these channels are differentially expressed and/or regulated in cancer cells in comparison to healthy ones, this strategy may selectively eliminate the former. Perturbation of ion fluxes across the outer and inner membranes is linked to alterations of redox state, membrane potential and bioenergetic efficiency. This leads to indirect modulation of oxidative phosphorylation, which is/may be fundamental for both cancer and cancer stem cell survival. Furthermore, given the crucial contribution of mitochondria to intrinsic apoptosis, modulation of their ion channels leading to cytochrome c release may be of great advantage in case of resistance to drugs triggering apoptotic events upstream of the mitochondrial phase. In the present review, we give an overview of the known mitochondrial ion channels and of their modulators capable of killing cancer cells. In addition, we discuss state-of-the-art strategies using mitochondriotropic drugs or peptide-based approaches allowing a more efficient and selective targeting of mitochondrial ion channel-linked events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildiko Szabo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Italy; CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy.
| | | | - Lucia Biasutto
- CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Padova, Italy; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Italy
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Wen L, Hu J, Zhang J, Yang J. Phenylethanol glycosides from Herba Cistanche improve the hypoxic tumor microenvironment and enhance the effects of oxaliplatin via the HIF‑1α signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:517. [PMID: 34013363 PMCID: PMC8160477 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common types of malignant tumor, and is characterized by high malignancy, rapid progression, high morbidity and mortality. Oxaliplatin (OXA) has been reported to have marked efficiency against advanced liver cancer with tolerable toxicity. In solid tumors, the hypoxic microenvironment promotes epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT), which can also induce drug resistance of liver cancer to platinum drugs. Herba Cistanche (Cistanche tubulosa) has been frequently used in traditional Chinese medicine and the phenylethanol glycosides from Herba Cistanche (CPhGs) are the major active components. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of CPhGs on viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion of liver cancer cells. HepG2 liver cancer cells were divided into the control, DMSO, CoCl2, OXA, OXA + CoCl2 and CPhGs + OXA + CoCl2 groups. Subsequently, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blot analysis were performed to determine the expression levels of hypoxia‑inducible factor 1α (HIF‑1α), lysyl oxidase‑like 2 (LOXL2) and EMT‑related genes and proteins (i.e., E‑cadherin and Twist), in order to investigate the effects of CPhGs on liver cancer. The results demonstrated that CPhGs could enhance the effects of OXA on liver cancer, and inhibit the migration, invasion and apoptotic rate of liver cancer cells. Additionally, CPhGs treatment effectively induced downregulation of HIF‑1α, LOXL2 and Twist, and upregulation of E‑cadherin. The present findings indicated that CPhGs triggered a significant increase in sensitivity to OXA and suppression of hypoxia‑induced EMT in liver cancer by inhibiting the HIF‑1α signaling pathway. Therefore, CPhGs may be considered an effective platinum drug sensitizer, which could improve chemotherapeutic efficacy in patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limei Wen
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830054, P.R. China
| | - Junping Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830054, P.R. China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830054, P.R. China
| | - Jianhua Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830054, P.R. China
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Genovese I, Carinci M, Modesti L, Aguiari G, Pinton P, Giorgi C. Mitochondria: Insights into Crucial Features to Overcome Cancer Chemoresistance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094770. [PMID: 33946271 PMCID: PMC8124268 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are key regulators of cell survival and are involved in a plethora of mechanisms, such as metabolism, Ca2+ signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitophagy and mitochondrial transfer, fusion, and fission (known as mitochondrial dynamics). The tuning of these processes in pathophysiological conditions is fundamental to the balance between cell death and survival. Indeed, ROS overproduction and mitochondrial Ca2+ overload are linked to the induction of apoptosis, while the impairment of mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism can have a double-faceted role in the decision between cell survival and death. Tumorigenesis involves an intricate series of cellular impairments not yet completely clarified, and a further level of complexity is added by the onset of apoptosis resistance mechanisms in cancer cells. In the majority of cases, cancer relapse or lack of responsiveness is related to the emergence of chemoresistance, which may be due to the cooperation of several cellular protection mechanisms, often mitochondria-related. With this review, we aim to critically report the current evidence on the relationship between mitochondria and cancer chemoresistance with a particular focus on the involvement of mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling, oxidative stress, and metabolism to possibly identify new approaches or targets for overcoming cancer resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Genovese
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.G.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Marianna Carinci
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.G.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Lorenzo Modesti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.G.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Gianluca Aguiari
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.G.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Carlotta Giorgi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.G.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (P.P.)
- Correspondence:
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Sun Z, Tan Z, Peng C, Yi W. HK2 is associated with the Warburg effect and proliferation in liver cancer: Targets for effective therapy with glycyrrhizin. Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:343. [PMID: 33760124 PMCID: PMC7974329 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.11982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycyrrhizin (GA) is the most essential active ingredient in licorice root, and has a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. The present study aimed to conduct a detailed analysis of the effects of GA on liver cancer (LC) cell proliferation and the Warburg effect. Hexokinase‑2 (HK2) is a glycolytic enzyme that catalyzes the Warburg effect. To this end, the LC HepG2 cell line was transfected with small interfering RNA‑HK2 or pCDNA3.1‑HK2, followed by GA treatment. A Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay and EdU staining were employed to evaluate the proliferation rate of LC cells. The expression levels of HK2 and the phosphorylation level of AKT were measured by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting, respectively. Furthermore, the glucose uptake capacity and lactic acid content were assessed by kits, and the glycolysis level was evaluated by assessing the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and the oxygen consumption rate (OCR). A pronounced increase in the OCR, and decreases in the cell proliferation, glucose uptake capacity, lactic acid content, ECAR and HK2 expression were detected in LC cells subjected to GA treatment or HK2‑knockdown. Conversely, overexpression of HK2 reversed these trends, indicating that glycyrrhizin may inhibit LC cell proliferation and the Warburg effect through suppression of HK2. In addition, it was revealed that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was associated with LC cell proliferation and the Warburg effect; notably, treatment of LC cells with the AKT agonist SC79 induced elevation of the ECAR, cell proliferation, glucose uptake capacity, lactic acid content, phosphorylated‑AKT and HK2 expression, and suppressed the OCR. In conclusion, GA may inhibit the Warburg effect and cell proliferation in LC by suppressing HK2 through blockade of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengpeng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Changsha, Hunan 410005, P.R. China
| | - Zhiguo Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Changsha, Hunan 410005, P.R. China
| | - Chuang Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Changsha, Hunan 410005, P.R. China
| | - Weimin Yi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Changsha, Hunan 410005, P.R. China
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Shoshan-Barmatz V, Shteinfer-Kuzmine A, Verma A. VDAC1 at the Intersection of Cell Metabolism, Apoptosis, and Diseases. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1485. [PMID: 33114780 PMCID: PMC7693975 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) protein, is an important regulator of mitochondrial function, and serves as a mitochondrial gatekeeper, with responsibility for cellular fate. In addition to control over energy sources and metabolism, the protein also regulates epigenomic elements and apoptosis via mediating the release of apoptotic proteins from the mitochondria. Apoptotic and pathological conditions, as well as certain viruses, induce cell death by inducing VDAC1 overexpression leading to oligomerization, and the formation of a large channel within the VDAC1 homo-oligomer. This then permits the release of pro-apoptotic proteins from the mitochondria and subsequent apoptosis. Mitochondrial DNA can also be released through this channel, which triggers type-Ι interferon responses. VDAC1 also participates in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria cross-talk, and in the regulation of autophagy, and inflammation. Its location in the outer mitochondrial membrane, makes VDAC1 ideally placed to interact with over 100 proteins, and to orchestrate the interaction of mitochondrial and cellular activities through a number of signaling pathways. Here, we provide insights into the multiple functions of VDAC1 and describe its involvement in several diseases, which demonstrate the potential of this protein as a druggable target in a wide variety of pathologies, including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- Department of Life Sciences and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel; (A.S.-K.); (A.V.)
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Zhu Y, Zhang C, Xu F, Zhao M, Bergquist J, Yang C, Liu X, Tan Y, Wang X, Li S, Jiang W, Ong Q, Lu L, Mi J, Tian G. System biology analysis reveals the role of voltage-dependent anion channel in mitochondrial dysfunction during non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression into hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:4288-4302. [PMID: 32945042 PMCID: PMC7648023 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms behind the correlation of NAFLD with HCC are unclear. We aimed to uncover the genes and potential mechanisms that drive this progression. This study uncovered the genes and potential mechanisms through a multiple ’omics integration approach. Quantitative proteomics combined with phenotype‐association analysis was performed. To investigate the potential mechanisms, a comprehensive transcriptome/lipidome/phenome‐wide association analysis was performed in genetic reference panel BXD mice strains. The quantitative proteomics combined with phenotype‐association results showed that VDAC1 was significantly increased in tumor tissues and correlated with NAFLD‐related traits. Gene co‐expression network analysis indicated that VDAC1 is involved in mitochondria dysfunction in the tumorigenic/tumor progression. The association between VDAC1 and mitochondria dysfunction can be explained by the fact that VDAC1 was associated with mitochondria membrane lipids cardiolipin (CL) composition shift. VDAC1 was correlated with the suppression of mature specie CL(LLLL) and elevation level of nascent CL species. Such profiling shift was supported by the significant positive correlation between VDAC1 and PTPMT1, as well as negative correlation with CL remodeling enzyme Tafazzin (TAZ). This study confirmed that the expression of VADC1 was dysregulated in NAFLD‐driven HCC and associated with NAFLD progression. The VDAC1‐driven mitochondria dysfunction is associated with cardiolipin composition shift, which causes alteration of mitochondria membrane properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chao Zhang
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Fuyi Xu
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - Jonas Bergquist
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.,Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Xiuxiu Liu
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Ying Tan
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Shasha Li
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | | | - Qunxiang Ong
- Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lu Lu
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jia Mi
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Geng Tian
- Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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Tornesello AL, Borrelli A, Buonaguro L, Buonaguro FM, Tornesello ML. Antimicrobial Peptides as Anticancer Agents: Functional Properties and Biological Activities. Molecules 2020; 25:E2850. [PMID: 32575664 PMCID: PMC7356147 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25122850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), or host defense peptides, are small cationic or amphipathic molecules produced by prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms that play a key role in the innate immune defense against viruses, bacteria and fungi. AMPs have either antimicrobial or anticancer activities. Indeed, cationic AMPs are able to disrupt microbial cell membranes by interacting with negatively charged phospholipids. Moreover, several peptides are capable to trigger cytotoxicity of human cancer cells by binding to negatively charged phosphatidylserine moieties which are selectively exposed on the outer surface of cancer cell plasma membranes. In addition, some AMPs, such as LTX-315, have shown to induce release of tumor antigens and potent damage associated molecular patterns by causing alterations in the intracellular organelles of cancer cells. Given the recognized medical need of novel anticancer drugs, AMPs could represent a potential source of effective therapeutic agents, either alone or in combination with other small molecules, in oncology. In this review we summarize and describe the properties and the mode of action of AMPs as well as the strategies to increase their selectivity toward specific cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lucia Tornesello
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.B.); (M.L.T.)
| | - Antonella Borrelli
- Innovative Immunological Models, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Luigi Buonaguro
- Innovative Immunological Models, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Franco Maria Buonaguro
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.B.); (M.L.T.)
| | - Maria Lina Tornesello
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS “Fondazione G. Pascale”, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (F.M.B.); (M.L.T.)
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Rosenfeld L, Sananes A, Zur Y, Cohen S, Dhara K, Gelkop S, Ben Zeev E, Shahar A, Lobel L, Akabayov B, Arbely E, Papo N. Nanobodies Targeting Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen for the Imaging and Therapy of Prostate Cancer. J Med Chem 2020; 63:7601-7615. [PMID: 32442375 PMCID: PMC7383930 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The repertoire of
methods for the detection and chemotherapeutic
treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) is currently limited. Prostate-specific
membrane antigen (PSMA) is overexpressed in PCa tumors and can be
exploited for both imaging and drug delivery. We developed and characterized
four nanobodies that present tight and specific binding and internalization
into PSMA+ cells and that accumulate specifically in PSMA+ tumors. We then conjugated one of these nanobodies to the
cytotoxic drug doxorubicin, and we show that the conjugate internalizes
specifically into PSMA+ cells, where the drug is released
and induces cytotoxic activity. In vivo studies show
that the extent of tumor growth inhibition is similar when mice are
treated with commercial doxorubicin and with a 42-fold lower amount
of the nanobody-conjugated doxorubicin, attesting to the efficacy
of the conjugated drug. These data highlight nanobodies as promising
agents for the imaging of PCa tumors and for the targeted delivery
of chemotherapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lior Rosenfeld
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Amiram Sananes
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Yuval Zur
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Shira Cohen
- Department of Chemistry, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Kalyan Dhara
- Department of Chemistry and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Sigal Gelkop
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Efrat Ben Zeev
- The Nancy and Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Anat Shahar
- The National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Leslie Lobel
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Barak Akabayov
- Department of Chemistry, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Eyal Arbely
- Department of Chemistry and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Niv Papo
- Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
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Ivanova H, Vervliet T, Monaco G, Terry LE, Rosa N, Baker MR, Parys JB, Serysheva II, Yule DI, Bultynck G. Bcl-2-Protein Family as Modulators of IP 3 Receptors and Other Organellar Ca 2+ Channels. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2020; 12:cshperspect.a035089. [PMID: 31501195 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a035089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The pro- and antiapoptotic proteins belonging to the B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family exert a critical control over cell-death processes by enabling or counteracting mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. Beyond this mitochondrial function, several Bcl-2 family members have emerged as critical modulators of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and dynamics, showing proapoptotic and antiapoptotic functions. Bcl-2 family proteins specifically target several intracellular Ca2+-transport systems, including organellar Ca2+ channels: inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) and ryanodine receptors (RyRs), Ca2+-release channels mediating Ca2+ flux from the endoplasmic reticulum, as well as voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs), which mediate Ca2+ flux across the mitochondrial outer membrane into the mitochondria. Although the formation of protein complexes between Bcl-2 proteins and these channels has been extensively studied, a major advance during recent years has been elucidating the complex interaction of Bcl-2 proteins with IP3Rs. Distinct interaction sites for different Bcl-2 family members were identified in the primary structure of IP3Rs. The unique molecular profiles of these Bcl-2 proteins may account for their distinct functional outcomes when bound to IP3Rs. Furthermore, Bcl-2 inhibitors used in cancer therapy may affect IP3R function as part of their proapoptotic effect and/or as an adverse effect in healthy cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristina Ivanova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tim Vervliet
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Giovanni Monaco
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lara E Terry
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Nicolas Rosa
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mariah R Baker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Structural Biology Imaging Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jan B Parys
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Irina I Serysheva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Structural Biology Imaging Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - David I Yule
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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The VDAC1-based R-Tf-D-LP4 Peptide as a Potential Treatment for Diabetes Mellitus. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020481. [PMID: 32093016 PMCID: PMC7072803 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder approaching epidemic proportions. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) regularly coexists with metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Recently, we demonstrated that the voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) is involved in NAFLD. VDAC1 is an outer mitochondria membrane protein that serves as a mitochondrial gatekeeper, controlling metabolic and energy homeostasis, as well as crosstalk between the mitochondria and the rest of the cell. It is also involved in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Here, we demonstrate that the VDAC1-based peptide, R-Tf-D-LP4, affects several parameters of a NAFLD mouse model in which administration of streptozotocin (STZ) and high-fat diet 32 (STZ/HFD-32) led to both type 2 diabetes (T2D) and NAFLD phenotypes. We focused on diabetes, showing that R-Tf-D-LP4 peptide treatment of STZ/HFD-32 fed mice restored the elevated blood glucose back to close to normal levels, and increased the number and average size of islets and their insulin content as compared to untreated controls. Similar results were obtained when staining the islets for glucose transporter type 2. In addition, the R-Tf-D-LP4 peptide decreased the elevated glucose levels in a mouse displaying obese, diabetic, and metabolic symptoms due to a mutation in the obese (ob) gene. To explore the cause of the peptide-induced improvement in the endocrine pancreas phenotype, we analyzed the expression levels of the proliferation marker, Ki-67, and found it to be increased in the islets of STZ/HFD-32 fed mice treated with the R-Tf-D-LP4 peptide. Moreover, peptide treatment of STZ/HFD-32 fed mice caused an increase in the expression of β-cell maturation and differentiation PDX1 transcription factor that enhances the expression of the insulin-encoding gene, and is essential for islet development, function, proliferation, and maintenance of glucose homeostasis in the pancreas. This increase occurred mainly in the β-cells, suggesting that the source of their increased number after R-Tf-D-LP4 peptide treatment was most likely due to β-cell proliferation. These results suggest that the VDAC1-based R-Tf-D-LP4 peptide has potential as a treatment for diabetes.
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Zhao S, Zhen Y, Fu L, Gao F, Zhou X, Huang S, Zhang L. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of benzamide derivatives as novel NTCP inhibitors that induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2019; 29:126623. [PMID: 31439379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2019.126623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Sodium taurocholate cotransport polypeptide (NTCP) plays an important role in the development of hepatitis and acts as a switch to allow hepatitis virus to enter hepatic cells. As the entry receptor protein of hepatitis virus, NTCP is also an effective target for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Herein, twenty-five benzamide analogues were synthesized based on the virtual screening design and their anti-proliferative activities against HepG2 cells were evaluated in vitro. Compound 35 was found to be promising, with an IC50 value of 2.8 μM. The apoptosis induced by 35 was characterized by the regulation of markers, including an increase in Bax, cleaved-caspase 3, and cleaved-PARP proteins, and a decrease in Bcl-2 protein. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation confirmed that compound 35 can bind tightly to NTCP. Western blot analysis also showed that NTCP was inhibited. Altogether, these results indicate that compound 35 acts as a novel NTCP inhibitor to induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangmei Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Yongqi Zhen
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Leilei Fu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Feng Gao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Xianli Zhou
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Shuai Huang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China.
| | - Lan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, PR China.
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43
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Pittala S, Krelin Y, Kuperman Y, Shoshan-Barmatz V. A Mitochondrial VDAC1-Based Peptide Greatly Suppresses Steatosis and NASH-Associated Pathologies in a Mouse Model. Mol Ther 2019; 27:1848-1862. [PMID: 31375359 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatosis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are liver pathologies characterized by severe metabolic alterations due to fat accumulation that lead to liver damage, inflammation, and fibrosis. We demonstrate that the voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1)-based peptide R-Tf-D-LP4 arrested steatosis and NASH progression, as produced by a high-fat diet (HFD-32) in a mouse model, and reversed liver pathology to a normal-like state. VDAC1, a multi-functional mitochondrial protein, regulates cellular metabolic and energetic functions and apoptosis and interacts with many proteins. R-Tf-D-LP4 treatment eliminated hepatocyte ballooning degeneration, inflammation, and liver fibrosis associated with steatosis, NASH, and hepatocarcinoma, and it restored liver pathology-associated enzyme and glucose levels. Peptide treatment affected carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, increasing the expression of enzymes and factors associated with fatty acid transport to mitochondria, enhancing β-oxidation and thermogenic processes, yet decreasing the expression of enzymes and regulators of fatty acid synthesis. The VDAC1-based peptide thus offers a promising therapeutic approach for steatosis and NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Pittala
- Department of Life Sciences and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Yakov Krelin
- Department of Life Sciences and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Yael Kuperman
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Varda Shoshan-Barmatz
- Department of Life Sciences and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel.
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44
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Yang G, Zhou D, Li J, Wang W, Zhong W, Fan W, Yu M, Cheng H. VDAC1 is regulated by BRD4 and contributes to JQ1 resistance in breast cancer. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:2340-2347. [PMID: 31452730 PMCID: PMC6676538 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs) are situated in the outer membrane of the mitochondria and serve as gatekeepers that control metabolite and ion exchange between the cytosol and mitochondria. VDAC1 is one of the most studied members of the VDAC protein family and is overexpressed in multiple types of cancer. However, the specific biological function and regulatory mechanism of VDAC1 in breast cancer remains unclear. The present study investigated the biological role of VDAC1 in breast cancer cells using an MTS assay. The association of clinicopathological features with VDAC1 in breast cancer was analyzed by Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis. The regulatory mechanism of VDAC1 was determined by cell transfection, western blot analysis, reverse transcription-quantitative (q)PCR analysis, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and ChIP-qPCR analysis. The results of the present study demonstrated that VDAC1 promoted breast cancer proliferation and was associated with a poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. Additionally, it was observed that the expression of VDAC1 could be decreased by the bromodomain inhibitor (JQ1), and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) was indicated to be a regulator of VDAC1. Furthermore, results suggested that VDAC1 may be involved in the resistance of breast cancer to JQ1. Collectively, the present findings uncovered important aspects of the function of VDAC1 in the tumor progression of breast cancer, and may provide a basis for potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guochao Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Rongjun Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Dianwei Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xianning Central Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100, P.R. China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Wei Fan
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Mancheng Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
| | - Hongtao Cheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, P.R. China
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45
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Zhang C, Yang M, Ericsson AC. Antimicrobial Peptides: Potential Application in Liver Cancer. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1257. [PMID: 31231341 PMCID: PMC6560174 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The physicochemical properties of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) including size, net charge, amphipathic structure, hydrophobicity, and mode-of-action together determine their broad-spectrum activities against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. Recent studies show that some AMPs have both antimicrobial and anticancer activities, suggesting a new strategy for cancer therapy. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the primary liver cancer, is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and lacks effective treatment. Anticancer peptides (ACPs) derived from AMPs or natural resources could be applied to combat HCC directly or as a synergistic treatment. However, the number of known ACPs is low compared to the number of antibacterial and antifungal peptides, and very few of them can be applied clinically for HCC treatment. In this review, we first summarize recent studies related to ACPs for HCC, followed by a description of potential modes-of-action including direct killing, anti-inflammation, immune modulation, and enhanced wound healing. We then describe the structures of AMPs and methods to design and modify these peptides to improve their anticancer efficacy. Finally, we explore the potential application of ACPs as vaccines or nanoparticles for HCC treatment. Overall, ACPs display several attractive properties as therapeutic agents, including broad-spectrum anticancer activity, ease-of-design and modification, and low production costs. As this is an emerging and novel area of cancer therapy, additional studies are needed to identify existing candidate AMPs with ACP activity, and assess their anticancer activity and specificity, and immunomodulatory effects, using in vitro, in silico, and in vivo approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunye Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Aaron C. Ericsson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- University of Missouri Metagenomics Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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46
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Contribution of Mitochondrial Ion Channels to Chemo-Resistance in Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11060761. [PMID: 31159324 PMCID: PMC6627730 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11060761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial ion channels are emerging oncological targets, as modulation of these ion-transporting proteins may impact on mitochondrial membrane potential, efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation and reactive oxygen production. In turn, these factors affect the release of cytochrome c, which is the point of no return during mitochondrial apoptosis. Many of the currently used chemotherapeutics induce programmed cell death causing damage to DNA and subsequent activation of p53-dependent pathways that finally leads to cytochrome c release from the mitochondrial inter-membrane space. The view is emerging, as summarized in the present review, that ion channels located in this organelle may account in several cases for the resistance that cancer cells can develop against classical chemotherapeutics, by preventing drug-induced apoptosis. Thus, pharmacological modulation of these channel activities might be beneficial to fight chemo-resistance of different types of cancer cells.
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47
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Kerkhofs M, Bultynck G, Vervliet T, Monaco G. Therapeutic implications of novel peptides targeting ER-mitochondria Ca 2+-flux systems. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1092-1103. [PMID: 30910738 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+-flux systems located at the ER-mitochondrial axis govern mitochondrial Ca2+ balance and cell fate. Multiple yet incurable pathologies are characterized by insufficient or excessive Ca2+ fluxes toward the mitochondria, in turn leading to aberrant cell life or death dynamics. The discovery and ongoing molecular characterization of the main interorganellar Ca2+ gateways have resulted in a novel class of peptide tools able to regulate relevant protein-protein interactions (PPIs) underlying this signaling scenario. Here, we review peptides, molecularly derived from Ca2+-flux systems or their accessory proteins. We discuss how they alter Ca2+-signaling protein complexes and modulate cell survival in light of their forthcoming therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn Kerkhofs
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Leuven Kanker Instituut, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I bus 802, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Leuven Kanker Instituut, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I bus 802, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Tim Vervliet
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Leuven Kanker Instituut, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I bus 802, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Giovanni Monaco
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Leuven Kanker Instituut, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I bus 802, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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48
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Leanza L, Checchetto V, Biasutto L, Rossa A, Costa R, Bachmann M, Zoratti M, Szabo I. Pharmacological modulation of mitochondrial ion channels. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:4258-4283. [PMID: 30440086 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of mitochondrial ion channels has undergone a rapid development during the last three decades, due to the molecular identification of some of the channels residing in the outer and inner membranes. Relevant information about the function of these channels in physiological and pathological settings was gained thanks to genetic models for a few, mitochondria-specific channels. However, many ion channels have multiple localizations within the cell, hampering a clear-cut determination of their function by pharmacological means. The present review summarizes our current knowledge about the ins and outs of mitochondrial ion channels, with special focus on the channels that have received much attention in recent years, namely, the voltage-dependent anion channels, the permeability transition pore (also called mitochondrial megachannel), the mitochondrial calcium uniporter and some of the inner membrane-located potassium channels. In addition, possible strategies to overcome the difficulties of specifically targeting mitochondrial channels versus their counterparts active in other membranes are discussed, as well as the possibilities of modulating channel function by small peptides that compete for binding with protein interacting partners. Altogether, these promising tools along with large-scale chemical screenings set up to identify new, specific channel modulators will hopefully allow us to pinpoint the actual function of most mitochondrial ion channels in the near future and to pharmacologically affect important pathologies in which they are involved, such as neurodegeneration, ischaemic damage and cancer. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Featured Mechanisms and Approaches for Therapy Translation. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Leanza
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Biasutto
- CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossa
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Costa
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Mario Zoratti
- CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ildiko Szabo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,CNR Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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