Restoring E-cadherin Expression by Natural Compounds for Anticancer Therapies in Genital and Urinary Cancers

Inhibitory effect of recombinant tyrosine‑sulfated madanin‑1, a thrombin inhibitor, on the behavior of MDA‑MB‑231 and SKOV3 cells in vitro

Thrombin, which plays a crucial role in hemostasis, is also implicated in cancer progression. In the present study, the effects of the thrombin‑targeting recombinant tyrosine‑sulfated madanin‑1 on cancer cell behavior and signaling pathways compared with madanin‑1 wild‑type (WT) were investigated. Recombinant madanin‑1 2 sulfation (madanin‑1 2S) and madanin‑1 WT proteins were generated using Escherichia coli. SKOV3 and MDA‑MB‑231 cells were treated with purified recombinant proteins with or without thrombin stimulation. Migration and invasion of cells were analyzed by wound healing assay and Transwell assay, respectively. Thrombin markedly increased cell migration and invasion in both SKOV3 and MDA‑MB‑231 cells, which were significantly suppressed by madanin‑1 2S (P<0.05). Madanin‑1 2S also significantly suppressed thrombin‑induced expression of phosphorylated (p)‑Akt and p‑extracellular signal‑regulated kinase in both cell lines (P<0.05), whereas madanin‑1 WT had no effect on the expression levels of these proteins in MDA‑MB‑231 cells. Furthermore, madanin‑1 2S significantly reversed the effects of thrombin on E‑cadherin, N‑cadherin and vimentin expression in MDA‑MB‑231 cells (P<0.05), whereas madanin‑1 WT did not show any effect. In conclusion, madanin‑1 2S suppressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells more effectively than madanin‑1 WT. It is hypothesized that inhibiting thrombin via the sulfated form of madanin‑1 may be a potential candidate for enhanced cancer therapy; however, further in vivo validation is required.

Multiaction Pt(IV) Prodrugs Releasing Cisplatin and Dasatinib Are Potent Anticancer and Anti-Invasive Agents Displaying Synergism between the Two Drugs

Herein, we describe the general design, synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of new multitargeting Pt(IV) prodrugs that combine antitumor cisplatin and dasatinib, a potent inhibitor of Src kinase. These prodrugs exhibit impressive antiproliferative and anti-invasive activities in tumor cell lines in both two-dimensional (2D) monolayers of cell cultures and three-dimensional (3D) spheroids. We show that the cisplatin moiety and dasatinib in the investigated Pt(IV) complexes are both involved in the mechanism of action in MCF7 breast cancer cells and act synergistically. Thus, combining dasatinib and cisplatin into one molecule, compared to using individual components in a mix, may bring several advantages, such as significantly higher activity in cancer cell lines and higher selectivity for tumor cells. Most importantly, Pt(IV)-dasatinib complexes hold significant promise for potential anticancer therapies by targeting epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thus preventing the spread and metastasis of tumors, a value unachievable by a simple combination of both individual components.

E-cadherin re-expression: Its potential in combating TRAIL resistance and reversing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition

The major limitation of conventional chemotherapy drugs is their lack of specificity for cancer cells. As a selective apoptosis-inducing agent, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has emerged as an attractive alternative. However, most of the cancer cells are found to be either intrinsically resistant to the TRAIL protein or may develop resistance after multiple treatments, and TRAIL resistance can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) at a later stage, promoting cancer invasion and migration. Interestingly, E-cadherin loss has been linked to TRAIL resistance and initiation of EMT, making E-cadherin re-expression a potential target to overcome these obstacles. Recent research suggests that re-expressing E-cadherin may reduce TRAIL resistance by enhancing TRAIL-induced apoptosis and preventing EMT by modulating EMT signalling factors. This reversal of EMT, can also aid in improving TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Therefore, this review provides remarkable insights into the mechanisms underlying E-cadherin re-expression, clinical implications, and potentiation, as well as the research gaps of E-cadherin re-expression in the current cancer treatment.

Phytochemical composition of the diethyl ether extract of Artemisia lactiflora Wall. ex DC and its antimetastatic activity in human lung cancer cells

Artemisia lactiflora Wall. ex DC. is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant used in the treatment of menstrual and hepatic disorders due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its anti-metastatic activity, which is the clinical challenge of lung cancer treatment, has not yet been reported. From the diethyl ether extract of Artemisia lactiflora, the four terpenoids, including dihydroactinidiolide, megastigmatrienone, alpha-curcumene, and dehydrovomifoliol, were the most intense peaks observed using LC-MS/MS, whereas bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate was a contaminant. In a transwell assay, the A. lactiflora diethyl ether extract (32 μg/ml) and dihydroactinidiolide (250 μg/ml) markedly inhibited the migration and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, similar to the standard anti-metastatic drug (capmatinib). Western blot analysis revealed that mesenchymal N-cadherin is downregulated in NSCLC cells under the treatment conditions. The potential anti-metastatic property of dihydroactinidiolide is promising as a new candidate anti-metastatic agent for lung cancer treatment.

Soluble guanylyl cyclase beta1 subunit targets epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and downregulates Akt pathway in human endometrial and cervical cancer cells

Endometrial and cervical cancer are among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies globally. Nitric oxide receptor-soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is a heterodimeric enzyme composed of two subunits, α1 and β1. Previously we showed that sGCα1 subunit promotes cell survival, proliferation, and migration, but the role of sGCβ1 subunit has not been addressed. The aim of the present work was to study the impact of sGCβ1 restoration in proliferation, survival, migration, and cell signaling in endometrial and cervical cancer cells. We found that sGCβ1 transcript levels are reduced in endometrial and cervical tumors vs normal tissues. We confirmed nuclear enrichment of sGCβ1, unlike sGCα1. Overexpression of sGCβ1 reduced cell viability and augmented apoptotic index. Cell migration and invasion were also negatively affected. All these sGCβ1-driven effects were independent of sGC enzymatic activity. sGCβ1 reduced the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition factors such as N-cadherin and β-catenin and increased the expression of E-cadherin. sGCβ1 impacted signaling in endometrial and cervical cancer cells through significant downregulation of Akt pathway affecting some of its main targets such as GSK-3β and c-Raf. Our results show for the first time that sGCβ1 exerts several antiproliferative actions in ECC-1 and HeLa cell lines by targeting key regulatory pathways.

System Biology Approach in Investigating Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a trans-differentiating and reversible process that leads to dramatic cell phenotypic changes, enabling epithelial cells in acquiring mesenchymal phenotypes and behaviors. EMT plays a crucial role during embryogenesis, and occurs in several para-physiologic and pathological conditions, as during fibrosis or cancer development. EMT displays some hallmarks of critical transitions, as a sudden change in the overall configuration of a system in correspondence of specific tipping point around which a "catastrophic bifurcation" happens. The transition occurs when external conditions breach specific thresholds. This definition helps in highlighting two main aspects: (1) the change involves the overall system, rather than single, discrete components; (2) cues from the microenvironment play an irreplaceable role in triggering the transition. This evidence implies that critical transition should be ascertained focusing the investigation at the system level (rather than investigating only molecular parameters) in a well-defined context, as the transition is strictly dependent on the microenvironment in which it occurs. Therefore, we need a systems biology approach to investigate EMT across the Waddington-like epigenetic landscape wherein the participation of both internal and external cues can be studied to follow the extent and the main characteristics of the phenotypic transition. Herein, we suggest a set of systems parameters (motility, invasiveness) altogether with specific molecular/histological markers to identify those critical observables, which can be integrated into a comprehensive mechanistic model.

Reversible photoregulation of cell-cell adhesions with opto-E-cadherin

E-cadherin-based cell-cell adhesions are dynamically and locally regulated in many essential processes, including embryogenesis, wound healing and tissue organization, with dysregulation manifesting as tumorigenesis and metastasis. However, the lack of tools that would provide control of the high spatiotemporal precision observed with E-cadherin adhesions hampers investigation of the underlying mechanisms. Here, we present an optogenetic tool, opto-E-cadherin, that allows reversible control of E-cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesions with blue light. With opto-E-cadherin, functionally essential calcium binding is photoregulated such that cells expressing opto-E-cadherin at their surface adhere to each other in the dark but not upon illumination. Consequently, opto-E-cadherin provides remote control over multicellular aggregation, E-cadherin-associated intracellular signalling and F-actin organization in 2D and 3D cell cultures. Opto-E-cadherin also allows switching of multicellular behaviour between single and collective cell migration, as well as of cell invasiveness in vitro and in vivo. Overall, opto-E-cadherin is a powerful optogenetic tool capable of controlling cell-cell adhesions at the molecular, cellular and behavioural level that opens up perspectives for the study of dynamics and spatiotemporal control of E-cadherin in biological processes.

How do cells stiffen?

Cell stiffness is an important characteristic of cells and their response to external stimuli. In this review, we survey methods used to measure cell stiffness, summarize stimuli that alter cell stiffness, and discuss signaling pathways and mechanisms that control cell stiffness. Several pathological states are characterized by changes in cell stiffness, suggesting this property can serve as a potential diagnostic marker or therapeutic target. Therefore, we consider the effect of cell stiffness on signaling and growth processes required for homeostasis and dysfunction in healthy and pathological states. Specifically, the composition and structure of the cell membrane and cytoskeleton are major determinants of cell stiffness, and studies have identified signaling pathways that affect cytoskeletal dynamics both directly and by altered gene expression. We present the results of studies interrogating the effects of biophysical and biochemical stimuli on the cytoskeleton and other cellular components and how these factors determine the stiffness of both individual cells and multicellular structures. Overall, these studies represent an intersection of the fields of polymer physics, protein biochemistry, and mechanics, and identify specific mechanisms involved in mediating cell stiffness that can serve as therapeutic targets.

Celastrol inhibits the migration and invasion and enhances the anti-cancer effects of docetaxel in human triple-negative breast cancer cells

The molecular mechanism of anti-metastatic effect of celastrol is not fully understood in breast cancer cells. Herein, we investigated the activity and molecular mechanism of celastrol in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, which is a more aggressive subtype of breast cancer. The results of wound healing assay and trans-well assay revealed that celastrol inhibited cell migration and invasion under sub-cytotoxic concentrations in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cells. Molecular data showed that the effect of celastrol on TNBC cells might be mediated via up-regulation of E-cadherin, a key protein involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In addition, Hakai, an E3 ligase responsible for E-cadherin complex ubiquitination and degradation, was down-regulated under celastrol treatment. Hakai partially contributed to celastrol-induced anti-invasive effect. In addition, celastrol and docetaxel could synergistically inhibit growth and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results showing anti-migratory/anti-invasive effects of celastrol and associated mechanisms provide new evidence for the development of celastrol as a potential anti-metastatic compound against highly aggressive breast cancer, and celastrol in combination with docetaxel might potentially be used as a novel regimen for the treatment of TNBC.

Glycosphingolipids are mediators of cancer plasticity through independent signaling pathways

The molecular repertoire promoting cancer cell plasticity is not fully elucidated. Here, we propose that glycosphingolipids (GSLs), specifically the globo and ganglio series, correlate and promote the transition between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The epithelial character of ovarian cancer remains stable throughout disease progression, and spatial glycosphingolipidomics reveals elevated globosides in the tumor compartment compared with the ganglioside-rich stroma. CRISPR-Cas9 knockin mediated truncation of endogenous E-cadherin induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and decreases globosides. The transcriptomics analysis identifies the ganglioside-synthesizing enzyme ST8SIA1 to be consistently elevated in mesenchymal-like samples, predicting poor outcome. Subsequent deletion of ST8SIA1 induces epithelial cell features through mTOR^S2448 phosphorylation, whereas loss of globosides in ΔA4GALT cells, resulting in EMT, is accompanied by increased ERK^Y202/T204 and AKT^S124. The GSL composition dynamics corroborate cancer cell plasticity, and further evidence suggests that mesenchymal cells are maintained through ganglioside-dependent, calcium-mediated mechanisms.

Using the Power of Junctional Adhesion Molecules Combined with the Target of CAR-T to Inhibit Cancer Proliferation, Metastasis and Eradicate Tumors

Decades of evidence suggest that alterations in the adhesion properties of neoplastic cells endow them with an invasive and migratory phenotype. Tight junctions (TJs) are present in endothelial and epithelial cells. Tumors arise from such tissues, thus, the role of TJ proteins in the tumor microenvironment is highly relevant. In the TJ, junctional adhesion molecules (JAM) play a key role in assembly of the TJ and control of cell–cell adhesion. Reprogramming of immune cells using chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) to allow for target recognition and eradication of tumors is an FDA approved therapy. The best-studied CAR-T cells recognize CD19, a B-cell surface molecule. CD19 is not a unique marker for tumors, liquid or solid. To address this limitation, we developed a biologic containing three domains: (1) pH-low-insertion peptide (pHLIP), which recognizes the low pH of the cancer cells, leading to the insertion of the peptide into the plasma membrane. (2) An extracellular domain of JAM proteins that fosters cell–cell interactions. (3) CD19 to be targeted by CAR-T cells. Our modular design only targets cancer cells and when coupled with anti-CD19 CAR-T cells, it decreases proliferation and metastasis in at least two cancer cell lines.

A Low Dose Combination of Withaferin A and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Possesses Anti-Metastatic Potential In Vitro: Molecular Targets and Mechanisms

Simple Summary

Cancer therapy suffers from its high cost and high rate of adverse effects and relapse of the disease. Hence, the new (preferably natural), economic and safer therapeutic as well preventive measures have been on demand and have been subject of priority research. We have, earlier, demonstrated anticancer activity in the extracts of Ashwagandha leaves and propolis. A combination of Wi-A (an active anticancer ingredient in Ashwagandha extract) and CAPE (an active anticancer ingredient in propolis) was earlier shown to offer higher and cancer cell-selective cytotoxicity. In the present study, we report an anti-metastasis activity in the low dose combination of Wi-A and CAPE along with its mechanism of action and propose its use in cancer metastasis treatment.

Abstract

Withaferin A (Wi-A) and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) are the bioactive ingredients of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and propolis, respectively. Both of these natural compounds have been shown to possess anticancer activity. In the present study, we recruited a low dose of each of these compounds and developed a combination that exhibited remarkably potent anti-migratory and anti-angiogenic activities. Extensive molecular analyses including a cDNA array and expression analyses of the specific gene targets demonstrated that such activities are mediated through their effect on cell adhesion/tight junction proteins (Claudins, E-cadherin), inhibition of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways and the consequent downregulation of EMT-signaling proteins (Vimentin, MMPs, VEGF and VEGFR) that play a critical role in cancer metastasis. The data supported that this novel combination of Wi-A and CAPE (Wi-ACAPE, containing 0.5 µM of Wi-A and 10 µM of CAPE) may be recruited for the treatment of metastatic and aggressive cancers and, hence, warrant further evaluation by recruiting a variety of experimental and clinical metastatic models.

Directing hypoxic tumor microenvironment and HIF to illuminate cancer immunotherapy's existing prospects and challenges in drug targets

Cancer is now also reflected as a disease of the tumor microenvironment, primarily supposed to be a decontrolled genetic and cellular expression disease. Over the past two decades, significant and rapid progress has been made in recognizing the dynamics of the tumor's microenvironment and its contribution to influencing the response to various anti-cancer therapies and drugs. Modulations in the tumor microenvironment and immune checkpoint blockade are interesting in cancer immunotherapy and drug targets. Simultaneously, the immunotherapeutic strategy can be done by modulating the immune regulatory pathway; however, the tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in suppressing the antitumor's immunity by its substantial heterogeneity. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) is a significant contributor to solid tumor heterogeneity and a key stressor in the tumor microenvironment to drive adaptations to prevent immune surveillance. Checkpoint inhibitors here halt the ability of cancer cells to stop the immune system from activating, and in turn, amplify your body's immune system to help destroy cancer cells. Common checkpoints that these inhibitors affect are the PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 pathways and important drugs involved are Ipilimumab and Nivolumab, mainly along with other drugs in this group. Targeting the hypoxic tumor microenvironment may provide a novel immunotherapy strategy, break down traditional cancer therapy resistance, and build the framework for personalized precision medicine and cancer drug targets. We hope that this knowledge can provide insight into the therapeutic potential of targeting Hypoxia and help to develop novel combination approaches of cancer drugs to increase the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies, including immunotherapy.

Role of Silymarin in Cancer Treatment: Facts, Hypotheses, and Questions

The flavonoid silymarin extracted from the seeds of Sylibum marianum is a mixture of 6 flavolignan isomers. The 3 more important isomers are silybin (or silibinin), silydianin, and silychristin. Silybin is functionally the most active of these compounds. This group of flavonoids has been extensively studied and they have been used as hepato-protective substances for the mushroom Amanita phalloides intoxication and mainly chronic liver diseases such as alcoholic cirrhosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver. Hepatitis C progression is not, or slightly, modified by silymarin. Recently, it has also been proposed for SARS COVID-19 infection therapy. The biochemical and molecular mechanisms of action of these substances in cancer are subjects of ongoing research. Paradoxically, many of its identified actions such as antioxidant, promoter of ribosomal synthesis, and mitochondrial membrane stabilization, may seem protumoral at first sight, however, silymarin compounds have clear anticancer effects. Some of them are: decreasing migration through multiple targeting, decreasing hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression, inducing apoptosis in some malignant cells, and inhibiting promitotic signaling among others. Interestingly, the antitumoral activity of silymarin compounds is limited to malignant cells while the nonmalignant cells seem not to be affected. Furthermore, there is a long history of silymarin use in human diseases without toxicity after prolonged administration. The ample distribution and easy accessibility to milk thistle-the source of silymarin compounds, its over the counter availability, the fact that it is a weed, some controversial issues regarding bioavailability, and being a nutraceutical rather than a drug, has somehow led medical professionals to view its anticancer effects with skepticism. This is a fundamental reason why it never achieved bedside status in cancer treatment. However, in spite of all the antitumoral effects, silymarin actually has dual effects and in some cases such as pancreatic cancer it can promote stemness. This review deals with recent investigations to elucidate the molecular actions of this flavonoid in cancer, and to consider the possibility of repurposing it. Particular attention is dedicated to silymarin's dual role in cancer and to some controversies of its real effectiveness.

Cyclophilin A regulates A549 cells apoptosis via stabilizing Twist1 protein

Cyclophilin A (CypA) is an essential member of the immunophilin family. As an intracellular target of immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA) or a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase), it catalyzes the cis-trans isomerization of proline amidic peptide bonds, through which, it regulates a variety of biological processes, such as intracellular signaling, transcription, and apoptosis. In this study, we found that intracellular CypA enhanced Twist1 phosphorylation at Ser68 and inhibited apoptosis in A549 cells. Mechanistically, CypA could mediate the phosphorylation of Twist1 at Ser68 via p38 MAPK, which inhibited its ubiquitination-mediated degradation. In addition, CypA increased Twist-p65 interaction and nuclear accumulation, which regulated Twist1-dependent expression of CDH1 and CDH2. Our findings collectively indicated the role of CypA in Twist1-mediated A549 cells apoptosis through stabilizing Twist1 protein.

Anti-cancer impact of Hypericin in B-CPAP cells: Extrinsic caspase dependent apoptosis induction and metastasis obstruction

Thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine-related cancer. According to the literature, its incidence is not very high, but its rate increasing especially in developed countries. With this regard, finding approaches to prevent, and exert anti-tumor activity with the least side effects on the normal cells at the next step after diagnosis is demanded. Herbal medicine is a branch of integrative oncology that seems to be a practically beneficial goddess for cancer treatment in many cases. Here we utilized Hypericin (HYP) to investigate its anti-tumor (apoptotic and anti-metastatic) activity on B-CPAP (a thyroid cancer cell line) and cytotoxicity on TPC-1 (thyroid cancer cell line with wild type TP53) cell lines. To assess whether HYP may exert preventive and anti-tumor effects and does not have a potential side effect, we dubbed the experiments on the fibroblast cells (as a normal cell line). Cytotoxicity and kind of cellular death were examined by MTT and AnnexinV/PI respectively. Extrinsic/intrinsic apoptosis pathway induction was clarified by western blotting on pro/cleaved caspases 9, 8, and 3. According to our data HYP induces an extrinsic apoptosis pathway and no other types (necroptosis, necrosis, etc.) in B-CPAP cells. Moreover, CDH1 mRNA expression calculated to be up-regulated, and that of LGALS3 down-regulated in the B-CPAP cell line after treatment. Besides tumor cytotoxic activity, we suggest that HYP impedes with invasion and/or metastasis process.

Dysregulation of Non-coding RNAs mediates Cisplatin Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and therapeutic strategies

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth major contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide, and patients mostly have poor prognosis. Although several drugs have been approved for the treatment of HCC, cisplatin (CDDP) is still applied in treatment of HCC as a classical chemotherapeutic drug. Unfortunately, the emergence of CDDP resistance has caused HCC patients to exhibit poor drug response. How to mitigate or even reverse CDDP resistance is an urgent clinical issue to be solved. Because of critical roles in biological functional processes and disease developments, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been extensively studied in HCC in recent years. Importantly, ncRNAs have also been demonstrated to be involved in the development of HCC to CDDP resistance process. Therefore, this review highlighted the regulatory roles of ncRNAs in CDDP resistance of HCC, elucidated the multiple potential mechanisms by which HCC develops CDDP resistance, and attempted to propose multiple drug delivery systems to alleviate CDDP resistance. Recently, ncRNA-based therapy may be a feasible strategy to alleviate CDDP resistance in HCC. Meanwhile, nanoparticles can overcome the deficiencies in ncRNA-based therapy and make it possible to reverse tumor drug resistance. The combined use of these strategies provides clues for reversing CDDP resistance and overcoming the poor prognosis of HCC.

Urolithins: The Gut Based Polyphenol Metabolites of Ellagitannins in Cancer Prevention, a Review

Cancer as a disease continues to ravage the world population without regard to sex, age, and race. Due to the growing number of cases worldwide, cancer exerts a significant negative impact on global health and the economy. Interestingly, chemotherapy has been used over the years as a therapeutic intervention against cancer. However, high cost, resistance, and toxic by-effects to treatment have overshadowed some of its benefits. In recent times, efforts have been ongoing in searching for anticancer therapeutics of plant origin, focusing on polyphenols. Urolithins are secondary polyphenol metabolites derived from the gut microbial action on ellagitannins and ellagic acid-rich foods such as pomegranate, berries, and nuts. Urolithins are emerging as a new class of anticancer compounds that can mediate their cancer-preventive activities through cell cycle arrest, aromatase inhibition, induction of apoptosis, tumor suppression, promotion of autophagy, and senescence, transcriptional regulation of oncogenes, and growth factor receptors. In this review, we discussed the growing shreds of evidence supporting these secondary phenolic metabolites' anticancer properties. Furthermore, we have pointed out some of the future directions needed to establish urolithins as anticancer agents.

Anti-cancer Effects of Epigenetics Drugs Scriptaid and Zebularine in Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells

BACKGROUND

High relapse and metastasis progression in breast cancer patients have prompted the need to explore alternative treatments. Epigenetic therapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic strategy due to the reversibility of epigenome structures.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the anti-cancer effects of epigenetic drugs scriptaid and zebularine in human breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells.

METHODS

First, the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of scriptaid, zebularine and the combination of both drugs on human breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells was determined. Next, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were treated with scriptaid, zebularine and the combination of both. After treatments, the anti-cancer effects were evaluated via cell migration assay, cell cycle analysis and apoptotic studies, which included histochemical staining and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of the apoptotic genes.

RESULTS

Both epigenetic drugs inhibited cell viability in a dose-dependent manner with 2 nM scriptaid, 8 µM zebularine and combination of 2 nM scriptaid and 2 µM zebularine. Both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells exhibited a reduction in cell migration after the treatments. In particular, MDA-MB-231 cells exhibited a significant reduction in cell migration (p < 0.05) after the treatments of zebularine and the combination of scriptaid and zebularine. Besides, cell cycle analysis demonstrated that scriptaid and the combination of both drugs could induce cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, histochemical staining allowed the observation of apoptotic features, such as nuclear chromatin condensation, cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, nuclear chromatin fragmentation and cytoplasmic extension, in both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells after the treatments. Further apoptotic studies revealed that the upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bax, downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and elevation of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were found in MDA-MB-231 cells treated with zebularine and MCF-7 cells treated with all drug regimens.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these findings suggest that scriptaid and zebularine are potential anti-cancer drugs, either single or in combination, for the therapy of breast cancer. Further investigations of the gene regulatory pathways directed by scriptaid and zebularine are definitely warranted in the future.

Fabrication of PNIPAm-based thermoresponsive hydrogel microwell arrays for tumor spheroid formation

Complex three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures are being increasingly implemented in biomedical research as they provide important insights into complex cancer biology, and cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in the tumor microenvironment. However, most methods used today for 3D cell culture are limited by high cost, the need for specialized skills, low throughput and the use of unnatural culture environments. We report the development of a unique biomimetic hydrogel microwell array platform for the generation and stress-free isolation of cancer spheroids. The poly N-isopropylacrylamide-based hydrogel microwell array (PHMA) has thermoresponsive properties allowing for the attachment and growth of cell aggregates/ spheroids at 37 °C, and their easy isolation at room temperature (RT). The reversible phase transition of the microwell arrays at 35 °C was confirmed visually and by differential scanning calorimetry. Swelling/ shrinking studies and EVOS imaging established that the microwell arrays are hydrophilic and swollen at temperatures <35 °C, while they shrink and are hydrophobic at temperatures >35 °C. Spheroid development within the PHMA was optimized for seeding density, incubation time and cell viability. Spheroids of A549, HeLa and MG-63 cancer cell lines, and human lung fibroblast (HLF) cell line generated within the PHMAs had relatively spherical morphology with hypoxic cores. Finally, using MG-63 cell spheroids as representative models, a proof-of-concept drug response study using doxorubicin hydrochloride was conducted. Overall, we demonstrate that the PHMAs are an innovative alternative to currently used 3D cell culture techniques, for the high-throughput generation of cell spheroids for disease modeling and drug screening applications.

Paving the way for small-molecule drug discovery

Small-molecule drugs are organic compounds affecting molecular pathways by targeting important proteins, which have a low molecular weight, making them penetrate cells easily. Small-molecule drugs can be developed from leads derived from rational drug design or isolated from natural resources. As commonly used medications, small-molecule drugs can be taken orally, which enter cells to act on intracellular targets. These characteristics make small-molecule drugs promising candidates for drug development, and they are increasingly favored in the pharmaceutical market. Despite the advancements in molecular genetics and effective new processes in drug development, the drugs currently used in clinical practice are inadequate due to their poor efficacy or severe side effects. Therefore, developing new safe and efficient drugs is a top priority for disease control and curing.

PET-CT radiomics by integrating primary tumor and peritumoral areas predicts E-cadherin expression and correlates with pelvic lymph node metastasis in early-stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVES

To explore the role of radiomics in integrating primary tumor and peritumoral areas based on PET-CT scans for predicting E-cadherin (E-cad) expression in early-stage cervical cancer (ESCC) and its correlation with pelvic lymph node metastasis (PLNM).

METHODS

Ninety-seven ESCC patients who had undergone PET-CT scans were retrospectively analyzed. The ROI of primary tumors, peritumoral areas, and plus tumors were semi-automatically segmented on PET-CT images. A total of 1188 radiomics features were extracted, selected, and eventually integrated into radiomics score (rad-score). The rad-score difference between patients with E-cad expression of high and low was analyzed using Mann-Whitney tests. Characteristic correlation was tested using a Spearman analysis. Four models were established using logistic regression algorithms and evaluated using ROC and calibration curves. A DeLong test was used to perform pairwise comparisons of AUCs.

RESULTS

The rad-score of patients with low E-cad expression was higher than that of patients with high E-cad expression in both training and testing cohorts (p < 0.001 and p = 0.027, respectively). A significant correlation was observed between the rad-score and E-cad (p < 0.001). PLNM correlated slightly with rad-score and E-cad values (p = 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). The ROC curve and calibration curve of the rad-score model performed best in both training and testing cohorts (AUC = 0.915, 0.844, p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The radiomics of integrating primary tumor and peritumoral areas based on PET-CT showed correlations with PLNM. It was also able to predict E-cad expression in ESCC patients, allowing for evaluation of those patients' prognosis and more individualized medical treatment.

KEY POINTS

• By integrating the primary tumor and peritumoral area based on PET-CT, radiomics was feasible. • The rad-score was associated with E-cad expression and PLNM in patients with ESCC. • Radiomics that integrated the primary tumor and peritumoral areas based on PET-CT could predict E-cad expression in patients with ESCC.

Dexamethasone Reduces Cell Adhesion and Migration of T47D Breast Cancer Cell Line

BACKGROUND

Aberrant expression of cell adhesion molecules and matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) plays a pivotal role in tumor biological processes including progression and metastasis of cancer cells. Targeting these processes and detailed understanding of their underlying molecular mechanism is an essential step in cancer treatment. Dexamethasone (Dex) is a type of synthetic corticosteroid hormone used as adjuvant therapy in combination with current cancer treatments such as chemotherapy in order to alleviate its side effects like acute nausea and vomiting. Recent evidences have suggested that Dex may have antitumor characteristics.

OBJECTIVE

Dex affects the migration and adhesion of T47D breast cancer cells as well as cell adhesion molecules e.g., cadherin and integrin, and MMPs by regulating the expression levels of associated genes.

METHODS

In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxicity of Dex on the T47D breast cancer cell line through MTT assay. Cell adhesion assay and wound healing assay were performed to determine the impact of Dex on cell adhesion and cell migration, respectively. Moreover, real-time PCR was used to measure the levels of α and β integrin, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, MMP-2, and MMP-9.

RESULTS

Dex decreased the viability of T47D cells in a time and dose-dependent manner. Cell adhesion and migration of T47D cells were reduced upon Dex treatment. The expression of α and β integrin, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, MMP-2, and MMP-9 were altered in response to the Dex treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that Dex may have a role in the prevention of metastasis in this cell line.

MicroRNA-941 regulates the proliferation of breast cancer cells by altering histone H3 Ser 10 phosphorylation

Breast cancer including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents an important clinical challenge, as these tumours often develop resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics. MicroRNAs play a crucial role in cell-cycle regulation, differentiation, apoptosis, and migration. Herein, we performed Affymetrix Gene Chip miRNA 4.0 microarray and observed differential regulation of miRNAs (75 upregulated and 199 downregulated) in metastatic MDA-MB-231 cells as compared to immortalized human non-tumorigenic breast epithelial (MCF-10A) cells. MicroRNA-941 was significantly upregulated in MDA-MB-231 cells (almost nine-fold increase) in comparison to MCF-10A cells. Transfection of MiRNA-941 inhibitor significantly decreased the proliferation and migration of MDA-MB-231 cells by altering the expressions of p21, Cyclin D1, PP2B-B1, E-cadherin and MMP-13. Interestingly, we provide first evidence that inhibiting miR-941 prevents cell proliferation and phosphorylation of histone H3 at Ser10 residue. Xenograft model of breast cancer was developed by subcutaneous injection of MDA-MB-231 cells into the mammary fat pad of female athymic nude mice (Crl:NU-Foxn1nu). The tumours were allowed to grow to around 60 mm³, thereafter which we divided the animals into seven groups (n = 5). Notably, intratumoral injection of miR-941 inhibitor significantly abolished the tumour growth in MDA-MB-231 xenograft model. 5-Fluorouracil (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was used as positive control in our study. To the best of our knowledge, we report for the first time that targeting miR-941 improves the sensitivity of MDA-MB-231 cells to 5-fluorouracil. This can be of profound clinical significance, as it provides novel therapeutic approach for treating variety of cancers (overexpressing miRNA-941) in general and breast cancers in particular.

E-cadherin might be a stage-dependent modulator in aggressiveness in pancreatic cancer cells

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) pathology is known for its uncontrollable progress due to highly invasive characteristics and refractory behavior against existing chemotherapies. The aberrant expression of CDH1 (expresses the protein E-cadherin) is associated with increased overall survival in various cancers, however, E-cadherin expression in PDAC progression has remained elusive. We investigated the impact of exogenously elevated E-cadherin levels on the tumorigenicity of transduced low grade and metastatic PDAC cell lines, Panc-1 and AsPC-1, respectively. Constitutive expression of E-cadherin promoted a more hybrid E/M state in AsPC-1 cells, while it was associated with the acquisition of a more epithelial-like state in Panc1 cells. Our study suggests that E-cadherin may play differential roles in determining the metastatic characteristics of primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer cells.

The roles of carbonic anhydrases IX and XII in cancer cell adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis

The main function of carbonic anhydrases (CAs) in cancer cells is the pH regulation through a conversion of H₂ O and CO₂ to H⁺ and HCO₃ ^- . However, the data of in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that transmembrane isoforms of CA IX and CA XII are involved in various steps of cancer cell migration, invasion and metastasis. According to literature, inhibition of these CAs can affect the expression of multiple proteins. Some scientific groups have reported the possible interactions between CA IX and E-cadherin-catenin system, CA IX and integrins, CA IX, CA XII and ion transporters, which all are highly involved in cell-to-cell adhesion, the formation of membrane protrusions and focal adhesions. Nevertheless, CA IX and CA XII have a high impact on tumour growth and metastases formation. The data discussed in this review are quite recent. It highly support the role of CA IX and CA XII in various cancer metastasis processes through their interactions to other invasion proteins. Nevertheless, all findings show the great potential of these CAs in the context of research and application in clinical use.

Chrysin Inhibits Melanoma Tumor Metastasis via Interfering with the FOXM1/β-Catenin Signaling

Melanoma, which features high metastasis and high lethality, is one of the toughest tumors to treat. Chrysin, which is rich in various plants, has shown a great inhibitory effect on melanoma proliferation. Here, we evaluated the metastasis suppressive effect of chrysin on melanoma in vivo and in vitro. In vitro, chrysin effectively inhibited ankios resistance from 5 μM cell migration, invasion from 10 μM, and tube formation capacity of melanoma cells from 20 μM. We discovered that chrysin interfered with the mesenchymal-epithelial transition via regulating FOXM1/β-catenin signaling, as the expression of key regulatory factors was downregulated by chrysin treatment, and overexpression of FOXM1 will attenuate the antimetastasis effect of chrysin. We also tested chrysin on lung colonization in melanoma metastasis, where we found fewer tumors were formed in the lungs of chrysin-treated mice. In addition, the expression of FOXM1 was also downregulated by chrysin in vivo. Collectively, our findings suggested the ability of chrysin treatment to lower the metastatic rate of melanoma through regulating FOXM1/β-catenin signaling, indicating the application potential of chrysin for melanoma therapy.

A Novel Pharmacological Approach to Enhance the Integrity and Accelerate Restitution of the Intestinal Epithelial Barrier

BACKGROUND

Disruption of the gut barrier is an essential mechanism of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) contributing to the development of mucosal inflammation. A hallmark of barrier disruption is the disassembly of epithelial adherens junctions (AJs) driven by decreased expression of a major AJ protein, E-cadherin. A group of isoxazole compounds, such as E-cadherin-upregulator (ECU) and ML327, were previously shown to stimulate E-cadherin expression in poorly differentiated human cancer cells. This study was designed to examine whether these isoxazole compounds can enhance and protect model intestinal epithelial barriers in vitro.

METHODS

The study was conducted using T84, SK-CO15, and HT-29 human colonic epithelial cell monolayers. Disruption of the epithelial barrier was induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interferon-γ. Barrier integrity and epithelial junction assembly was examined using different permeability assays, immunofluorescence labeling, and confocal microscopy. Epithelial restitution was analyzed using a scratch wound healing assay.

RESULTS

E-cadherin-upregulator and ML327 treatment of intestinal epithelial cell monolayers resulted in several barrier-protective effects, including reduced steady-state epithelial permeability, inhibition of cytokine-induced barrier disruption and junction disassembly, and acceleration of epithelial wound healing. Surprisingly, these effects were not due to upregulation of E-cadherin expression but were mediated by multiple mechanisms including inhibition of junction protein endocytosis, attenuation of cytokine-induced apoptosis, and activation of promigratory Src and AKT signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data highlight ECU and ML327 as promising compounds for developing new therapeutic strategies to protect the integrity and accelerate the restitution of the intestinal epithelial barrier in IBD and other inflammatory disorders.

Targeted next-generation sequencing of matched localized and metastatic primary high-risk SCCs identifies driver and co-occurring mutations and novel therapeutic targets

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer and is responsible for over one million cases annually. While only 3-5 % of SCCs metastasize, those that do are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Using gene mutations to help predict metastasis and select therapeutics is still being explored.

OBJECTIVE

To present novel data from targeted sequencing of 20 case-matched localized and metastatic high-risk SCCs.

METHODS

A cancer-associated gene panel of 76 genes was run from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of 20 case-matched localized (10) and metastatic (10) high-risk SCCs (Vela Diagnostics).

RESULTS

Using spatial clustering analysis, primary driver mutations were identified asEGFR in localized SCC and CDH1 in metastatic SCC. ERBB4 and STK11 were found to be significant co-occurring mutations in localized SCC. Pathway analyses showed the RTK/RAS, TP53, TGF-b, NOTCH1, PI3K, and cell cycle pathways to be highly relevant in all high-risk SCCs with the Wnt pathway enhanced in metastatic SCC only.

CONCLUSIONS

This study compared gene mutations between localized and metastatic SCC with the intent of identifying key differences and new potential targeted treatment options. To our knowledge, the co-occurrence ofERBB4 and STK11 mutations has not been previously reported. Targeted inhibition of CDH1 and the Wnt pathway should be further explored in metastatic SCC.

Resveratrol Suppresses Prostate Cancer Epithelial Cell Scatter/Invasion by Targeting Inhibition of Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Secretion by Prostate Stromal Cells and Upregulation of E-cadherin by Prostate Cancer Epithelial Cells

Cancer mortality is primarily attributed to metastasis and the resulting compromise of organs secondary to the initial tumor site. Metastasis is a multi-step process in which the tumor cells must first acquire a migratory phenotype and invade through the surrounding tissue for spread to distant organs in the body. The ability of malignant cells to migrate and breach surrounding tissue/matrix barriers is among the most daunting challenges to disease management for men in the United States diagnosed with prostate cancer (CaP), especially since, at diagnosis, a high proportion of patients already have occult or clinically-detectable metastasis. The interaction between hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) secreted by the stroma, with its receptor c-Met located in the epithelium, must occur for epithelial CaP cells to become migratory. We studied the effects of grape-derived phytochemical resveratrol on the transition of epithelial tumor cells from sedentary to a mobile, penetrant phenotype. A time lapse microscopy assay was used to monitor the acquisition of the migratory phenotype by resveratrol. The results show that resveratrol inhibits HGF-mediated interaction between the stroma and epithelium and suppresses epithelial CaP cell migration by attenuating the control of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

A rare case of the recurrent surgery for cribriform-morular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

The cribriform-morular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (CMV-PTC) is an uncommon subtype of PTC, and it is associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We describe a 32-year-old female who presented recurrent CMV-PTC with FAP. Surgery performed after the recurrent disease resulted in left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy due to formation of strong scar after initial operation. The histopathological examination revealed the recurrent CMV-PTC without thyroid capsular invasion in remnant thyroid tissue of berry ligament. In addition, the immunohistochemical analysis showed that β-Catenin was diffusely positive in both cytoplasm and nucleus in CMV-PTC tissue.

CONCLUSION

Total thyroidectomy in CMV-PTC with FAP should be performed at initial surgery due to high recurrence.

Anticancer Effect and Mechanism of Hydroxygenkwanin in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The incidence and mortality of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are high, and the number of oral cancers had risen in the world. However, chemotherapy drugs have numerous side effects. There is an urgent requirement to develop a novel drug that can be used to treat oral cancer. Hydroxygenkwanin (HGK) is a nature flavonoid extracted from Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc. (Thymelaeaceae). Previous studies had demonstrated that HGK exhibits anticancer effect, but the effect is still unclear in oral cancer. HGK inhibited cell growth dose-dependently in SAS and OCEM1 cells. The functional enrichment analysis showed the significant pathway in cellular movement, cell cycle and cellular growth and proliferation. We further demonstrated the HGK induced the cell cycle arrest by flow cytometry and inhibited colony formation ability and cell movement. The western blot showed that HGK induced cell cycle arrest through p21 activation and caused intrinsic cell apoptosis pathway. HGK inhibited the cell invasion and migration through down-regulation vimentin. HGK might be an effective natural product for oral cancer therapy.