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Huang H, Xie J, Wang F, Jiao S, Li X, Wang L, Liu D, Wang C, Wei X, Tan P, Tu P, Li J, Hu Z. Commiphora myrrha n-hexane extract suppressed breast cancer progression through induction of G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptotic cell death by inhibiting the Cyclin D1/CDK4-Rb signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1425157. [PMID: 39161904 PMCID: PMC11330881 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1425157] [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: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most frequently observed malignancies globally, yet drug development for BC has been encountering escalating challenges. Commiphora myrrha is derived from the dried resin of C. myrrha (T. Nees) Engl., and is widely adopted in China for treating BC. However, the anti-BC effect and underlying mechanism of C. myrrha remain largely unclear. Methods MTT assay, EdU assay, and colony formation were used to determine the effect of C. myrrha n-hexane extract (CMHE) on the proliferation of human BC cells. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were assessed via flow cytometry analysis. Moreover, metastatic potential was evaluated using wound-scratch assay and matrigel invasion assay. The 4T1 breast cancer-bearing mouse model was established to evaluate the anti-BC efficacy of CMHE in vivo. RNA-sequencing analysis, quantitative real-time PCR, immunoblotting, immunohistochemical analysis, RNA interference assay, and database analysis were conducted to uncover the underlying mechanism of the anti-BC effect of CMHE. Results We demonstrated the significant inhibition in the proliferative capability of BC cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 by CMHE. Moreover, CMHE-induced G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis of the above two BC cell lines were also observed. CMHE dramatically repressed the metastatic potential of these two cells in vitro. Additionally, the administration of CMHE remarkably suppressed tumor growth in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. No obvious toxic or side effects of CMHE administration in mice were noted. Furthermore, immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis demonstrated that CMHE treatment inhibited the proliferative and metastatic abilities of cancer cells, while also promoting apoptosis in the tumor tissues of mice. Based on RNA sequencing analysis, quantitative real-time PCR, immunoblotting, and IHC assay, the administration of CMHE downregulated Cyclin D1/CDK4-Rb signaling pathway in BC. Furthermore, RNA interference assay and database analysis showed that downregulated Cyclin D1/CDK4 signaling cascade participated in the anti-BC activity of CMHE. Conclusion CMHE treatment resulted in the suppression of BC cell growth through the stimulation of cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase and the induction of apoptotic cell death via the inhibition of the Cyclin D1/CDK4-Rb pathway, thereby enhancing the anti-BC effect of CMHE. CMHE has potential anti-BC effects, particularly in those harboring aberrant activation of Cyclin D1/CDK4-Rb signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiming Huang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jinxin Xie
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shungang Jiao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xingxing Li
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Longyan Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dongxiao Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chaochao Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejiao Wei
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Tan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Tu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongdong Hu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Ogiji ED, Aboheimed N, Ross K, Voller C, Siner R, Jensen RL, Jolly CE, Carr DF. Greater mechanistic understanding of the cutaneous pathogenesis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis can shed light on novel therapeutic strategies: a comprehensive review. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 24:218-227. [PMID: 38753537 PMCID: PMC11213502 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0000000000000993] [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] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs) characterized by widespread epithelial detachment and blistering, which affects the skin and mucocutaneous membranes. To date, therapeutic interventions for SJS/TEN have focused on systematic suppression of the inflammatory response using high-dose corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin G (IgG), for example. No targeted therapies for SJS/TEN currently exist. RECENT FINDINGS Though our understanding of the pathogenesis of SJS/TEN has advanced from both an immunological and dermatological perspective, this knowledge is yet to translate into the development of new targeted therapies. SUMMARY Greater mechanistic insight into SJS/TEN would potentially unlock new opportunities for identifying or repurposing targeted therapies to limit or even prevent epidermal injury and blistering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emeka D. Ogiji
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Nourah Aboheimed
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kehinde Ross
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University
| | - Calum Voller
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ryan Siner
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rebecca L. Jensen
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Carol E. Jolly
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel F. Carr
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Wang BR, Ma HH, Chang CH, Liao CH, Chang WS, Mong MC, Yang YC, Gu J, Bau DT, Tsai CW. Contribution of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 to Upper Tract Urothelial Cancer Risk in Taiwan. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:801. [PMID: 39063556 PMCID: PMC11277778 DOI: 10.3390/life14070801] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, which degrade type IV collagen, are linked to cancer invasion and metastasis. Gene polymorphisms in MMP-2 and MMP-9 can influence their function, impacting cancer development and progression. This study analyzed the association between polymorphisms MMP-2 rs243865 (C-1306T), rs2285053 (C-735T), and MMP-9 rs3918242 (C-1562T) with serum concentrations of these enzymes in upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC) patients. We conducted a case-control study with 218 UTUC patients and 580 healthy individuals in Taiwan. Genotyping was performed using PCR/RFLP on DNA from blood samples, and MMP-2 and MMP-9 serum levels and mRNA expressions in 30 UTUC patients were measured using ELISA and real-time PCR. Statistical analysis showed that MMP-2 rs2285053 and MMP-9 rs3918242 genotypes were differently distributed between UTUC patients and controls (p = 0.0199 and 0.0020). The MMP-2 rs2285053 TT genotype was associated with higher UTUC risk compared to the CC genotype (OR = 2.20, p = 0.0190). Similarly, MMP-9 rs3918242 CT and TT genotypes were linked to increased UTUC risk (OR = 1.51 and 2.92, p = 0.0272 and 0.0054). In UTUC patients, TT carriers of MMP-2 rs2285053 and MMP-9 rs3918242 showed higher mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that MMP-2 rs2285053 and MMP-9 rs3918242 genotypes are significant markers for UTUC risk and metastasis in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Ren Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Taichung Armed Forces General Hospital, Taichung 41152, Taiwan
- National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Huan Ma
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Taichung 427003, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hsiang Chang
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsi Liao
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Taichung Armed Forces General Hospital, Taichung 41152, Taiwan
- National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Shin Chang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mei-Chin Mong
- Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chen Yang
- Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
| | - Jian Gu
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Da-Tian Bau
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Terry Fox Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Xu E, Gu H, Xu H. Validation of biomarkers and immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using bioinformatics and Mendelian randomization. Int J Neurosci 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38687340 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2024.2349952] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To promote carcinogenesis through diverse molecular pathways involving dysregulation of gene expression and abnormalities. METHODS We employed Mendelian randomization (MR) to uncover causal relationships between genetic factors and HNSCC. We used the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) method as the primary MR analysis, and validated the results through complementary approaches like MR-Egger regression, weighted median, and mode analyses. RESULTS Our analysis identified 2210 genes that are differentially expressed in head and neck cancer (HNSCC) compared to normal tissues. Within the protein interaction network, the genes IL1B, CXCL8, CXCL1, and CCL2 stood out as central hubs. Further investigation revealed that these key genes are involved in important biological processes like skin development, wound healing, and fat metabolism. Notably, our Mendelian randomization analysis provided evidence for a causal relationship between the expression of the IL1B gene and the development of HNSCC. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis identified 5 key genes - IL1B, CXCL8, CXCL1, CCL2, and IL1B - that show significant changes in expression in head and neck cancer. These genes could serve as important new biomarkers to help diagnose this disease and track how it progresses over time. Importantly, these genes are involved in regulating the immune system, suggesting that the body's immune response plays a critical role in head and neck cancer. This provides new avenues for future research to better understand the complex gene expression patterns underlying this type of cancer. Further investigation of these key genes and their regulatory networks could lead to important insights and potential new treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enhong Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Naval Medical Center of People's Liberation Army of China (PLA), Shanghai, China
| | - Huanhuan Gu
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - He Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Arnold L, Yap M, Jackson L, Barry M, Ly T, Morrison A, Gomez JP, Washburn MP, Standing D, Yellapu NK, Li L, Umar S, Anant S, Thomas SM. DCLK1-Mediated Regulation of Invadopodia Dynamics and Matrix Metalloproteinase Trafficking Drives Invasive Progression in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.06.588339. [PMID: 38645056 PMCID: PMC11030349 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.06.588339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a major health concern due to its high mortality from poor treatment responses and locoregional tumor invasion into life sustaining structures in the head and neck. A deeper comprehension of HNSCC invasion mechanisms holds the potential to inform targeted therapies that may enhance patient survival. We previously reported that doublecortin like kinase 1 (DCLK1) regulates invasion of HNSCC cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that DCLK1 regulates proteins within invadopodia to facilitate HNSCC invasion. Invadopodia are specialized subcellular protrusions secreting matrix metalloproteinases that degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM). Through a comprehensive proteome analysis comparing DCLK1 control and shDCLK1 conditions, our findings reveal that DCLK1 plays a pivotal role in regulating proteins that orchestrate cytoskeletal and ECM remodeling, contributing to cell invasion. Further, we demonstrate in TCGA datasets that DCLK1 levels correlate with increasing histological grade and lymph node metastasis. We identified higher expression of DCLK1 in the leading edge of HNSCC tissue. Knockdown of DCLK1 in HNSCC reduced the number of invadopodia, cell adhesion and colony formation. Using super resolution microscopy, we demonstrate localization of DCLK1 in invadopodia and colocalization with mature invadopodia markers TKS4, TKS5, cortactin and MT1-MMP. We carried out phosphoproteomics and validated using immunofluorescence and proximity ligation assays, the interaction between DCLK1 and motor protein KIF16B. Pharmacological inhibition or knockdown of DCLK1 reduced interaction with KIF16B, secretion of MMPs, and cell invasion. This research unveils a novel function of DCLK1 within invadopodia to regulate the trafficking of matrix degrading cargo. The work highlights the impact of targeting DCLK1 to inhibit locoregional invasion, a life-threatening attribute of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levi Arnold
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Marion Yap
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Laura Jackson
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Michael Barry
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Thuc Ly
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Austin Morrison
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Juan P. Gomez
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Michael P. Washburn
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - David Standing
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Nanda Kumar Yellapu
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Linheng Li
- Stowers Institute, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Shahid Umar
- Department of Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Shrikant Anant
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
| | - Sufi Mary Thomas
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
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Arini APK, Namangkalakul W, Limraksasin P, Osathanon T. Effects of lactalbumin enzymatic hydrolysate on human squamous cell carcinoma cells-an in vitro study. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2024; 14:222-229. [PMID: 38495954 PMCID: PMC10940804 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2024.02.011] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Alpha-lactalbumin, the protein from human and bovine milk has been found to be promising as an alternative of anticancer agent. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of lactalbumin enzymatic hydrolysate (LAH) on cell proliferation, migration, and mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) on human squamous cell carcinoma (hSCC) cell lines, in vitro. Methods Tongue (HSC-4 and 7) and pharyngeal (HN-30 and 31) hSCC cell lines were treated with a two-fold dilution of LAH (0.39-100 mg/ml). Cell viability and cell proliferation were examined by MTT assay. Colony forming unit (CFU) was assessed by crystal violet blue staining. Cell migration was investigated by scratch wound healing assay. Gene expression of metastasis-associated MMPs was assessed by RT-qPCR. Statistical analyses were evaluated at p value = 0.05. Results LAH at concentration of 50 and 100 mg/ml exhibited cytotoxicity on hSCC cells. The proliferation and CFU ability of hSCC cells were significantly attenuated after LAH treatment. The mRNA expression of MMP2, MMP9, and MMP14 was reduced in HN-30 and HN-31 cells while expression of MMP2 and MMP14 was downregulated in HSC-7 cells. Only MMP1 mRNA level was reduced in HSC-4 cells. However, cell migration of all hSCC cell lines did not alter after LAH treatment. Conclusion LAH treatment exhibits inhibitory effects on hSCC cell growth, proliferation and MMPs gene expression. Thus, LAH should be the promising alternative agent to develop the prospective anti-cancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Worachat Namangkalakul
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Dental Stem Cell Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Phoonsuk Limraksasin
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Dental Stem Cell Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Thanaphum Osathanon
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Dental Stem Cell Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
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Czerwonka A, Kałafut J, Nees M. Modulation of Notch Signaling by Small-Molecular Compounds and Its Potential in Anticancer Studies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4563. [PMID: 37760535 PMCID: PMC10526229 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184563] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is responsible for conveying messages between cells through direct contact, playing a pivotal role in tissue development and homeostasis. The modulation of Notch-related processes, such as cell growth, differentiation, viability, and cell fate, offer opportunities to better understand and prevent disease progression, including cancer. Currently, research efforts are mainly focused on attempts to inhibit Notch signaling in tumors with strong oncogenic, gain-of-function (GoF) or hyperactivation of Notch signaling. The goal is to reduce the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, interfere with neo-angiogenesis, increase chemosensitivity, potentially target cancer stem cells, tumor dormancy, and invasion, and induce apoptosis. Attempts to pharmacologically enhance or restore disturbed Notch signaling for anticancer therapies are less frequent. However, in some cancer types, such as squamous cell carcinomas, preferentially, loss-of-function (LoF) mutations have been confirmed, and restoring but not blocking Notch functions may be beneficial for therapy. The modulation of Notch signaling can be performed at several key levels related to NOTCH receptor expression, translation, posttranslational (proteolytic) processing, glycosylation, transport, and activation. This further includes blocking the interaction with Notch-related nuclear DNA transcription. Examples of small-molecular chemical compounds, that modulate individual elements of Notch signaling at the mentioned levels, have been described in the recent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiusz Czerwonka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.N.)
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Zhang Y, Dong P, Yang L. The role of nanotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by targeting tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1189323. [PMID: 37292204 PMCID: PMC10244756 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1189323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) refers to a group of highly malignant and pathogenically complex tumors. Traditional treatment methods include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, with advancements in genetics, molecular medicine, and nanotherapy, more effective and safer treatments have been developed. Nanotherapy, in particular, has the potential to be an alternative therapeutic option for HNSCC patients, given its advantageous targeting capabilities, low toxicity and modifiability. Recent research has highlighted the important role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the development of HNSCC. The TME is composed of various cellular components, such as fibroblasts, vascular endothelial cells, and immune cells, as well as non-cellular agents such as cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, extracellular matrix (ECM), and extracellular vesicles (EVs). These components greatly influence the prognosis and therapeutic efficacy of HNSCC, making the TME a potential target for treatment using nanotherapy. By regulating angiogenesis, immune response, tumor metastasis and other factors, nanotherapy can potentially alleviate HNSCC symptoms. This review aims to summarize and discuss the application of nanotherapy that targets HNSCC's TME. We highlight the therapeutic value of nanotherapy for HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology/Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Pengbo Dong
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology/Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
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Thioalbamide inhibits F oF 1-ATPase in breast cancer cells and reduces tumor proliferation and invasiveness in breast cancer in vivo models. Mol Metab 2023; 68:101674. [PMID: 36657563 PMCID: PMC9883262 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2023.101674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Thioalbamide is a ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide (RiPP) belonging to the family of thioamitides, a rare class of microbial specialized metabolites with unusual post-translational modifications and promising biological activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the ability of thioalbamide to exert highly selective cytotoxic effects on tumor cells by affecting their energy metabolism, thus causing abnormal ROS production and triggering apoptosis. This study is aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the antitumor activity of thioalbamide in order to identify its exact molecular target. METHODS Wild type MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines as well as cancer cells deprived of mitochondrial DNA (ρ0 cells) were employed in order to assess thioalbamide effects on tumor bioenergetics. In this regard, metabolic profile was evaluated by a Seahorse XFe96 analyzer, and the activity of the enzyme complexes involved in oxidative phosphorylation was quantified by spectrophotometric assays. Thioalbamide effects on tumor invasiveness were assessed by gelatin zymography experiments and invasion assays. In vivo experiments were carried out on breast cancer xenograft and "experimental metastasis" mouse models. RESULTS Experiments carried out on ρ0 breast cancer cells, together with Seahorse analysis and the application of spectrophotometric enzymatic assays, highlighted the ability of thioalbamide to affect the mitochondrial respiration process, and allowed to propose the FoF1-ATPase complex as its main molecular target in breast cancer cells. Additionally, thioalbamide-mediated OXPHOS inhibition was shown, for the first time, to reduce tumor invasiveness by inhibiting metalloproteinase-9 secretion. Furthermore, this study has confirmed the antitumor potential of thioalbamide in two different in vivo models. In particular, experiments on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 xenograft mouse models have confirmed in vivo its high anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity, while experiments on MDA-MB-231 ″experimental metastasis" mouse models have highlighted its ability to inhibit breast cancer cell invasiveness. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our results shed more light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the pharmacological potential of thioamidated peptides, thus reducing the gap that separates this rare class of microbial metabolites from clinical studies, which could validate them as effective tools for cancer treatment.
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Caruntu C, Tsatsakis AM, Tampa M, Georgescu SR, Gonzalez S. Editorial: Recent advances in keratinocyte carcinomas: From molecular mechanisms to clinical perspectives. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1078020. [DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1078020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Talib WH, Abuawad A, Thiab S, Alshweiat A, Mahmod AI. Flavonoid-based nanomedicines to target tumor microenvironment. OPENNANO 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.onano.2022.100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Opdenakker G, Vermeire S, Abu El-Asrar A. How to place the duality of specific MMP-9 inhibition for treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases into clinical opportunities? Front Immunol 2022; 13:983964. [PMID: 36164340 PMCID: PMC9509204 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.983964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) with the involvement of immune cells and molecules, including cytokines, chemokines and proteases. A previous extensive review about the molecular biology of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases (TIMPs), related to intestinal barrier destruction and restoration functions in IBD, is here complemented with the literature from the last five years. We also compare IBD as a prototypic mucosal inflammation of an epithelial barrier against microorganisms with inflammatory retinopathy as a disease with a barrier dysfunction at the level of blood vessels. Multiple reasons are at the basis of halting clinical trials with monoclonal antibodies against MMP-9 for IBD treatment. These include (i) the absence of a causative role of MMP-9 in the pathology in animal models of IBD, (ii) the fact that endotoxins, crossing the intestinal barrier, induce massive local release of both neutrophil collagenase (MMP-8) and gelatinase B (MMP-9), (iii) insufficient recognition that MMPs modify the activities of cytokines, chemokines and their receptors, (iv) ignorance that MMPs exist as mixtures of proteoforms with different posttranslational modifications and with different specific activities and (v) the fact that MMPs and TIMPs act in an interactive network, possibly having also beneficial effects on IBD evolution. Nevertheless, inhibition of MMPs may be a useful therapeutic approach during specific IBD disease phases or in specific sub-phenotypes. This temporary “window of opportunity” for MMP-9 inhibition may be complemented by a locoregional one, provided that the pharmacological agents are targeted in time to affected tissues, as is achieved in ophthalmological inflammation. Thus, in order to discover spatial and temporal windows of opportunity for MMP inhibition as treatment of IBD, more preclinical work including well controlled animal studies will be further needed. In this respect, MMP-9/NGAL complex analysis in various body compartments is helpful for better stratification of IBD patients who may benefit from anti-MMP-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghislain Opdenakker
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Ophthalmology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Ghislain Opdenakker,
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