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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Miyazaki T, Cabral H, Masamune A, Kano MR. Targeting ROCK2 improves macromolecular permeability in a 3D fibrotic pancreatic cancer microenvironment model. J Control Release 2024; 369:283-295. [PMID: 38522816 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.041] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is characterized by a densely fibrotic stroma. The fibrotic stroma hinders the intratumoral penetration of nanomedicine and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Fibrosis is characterized by an abnormal organization of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, namely the abnormal deposition and/or orientation of collagen and fibronectin. Abnormal ECM organization is chiefly driven by pathological signaling in pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), the main cell type involved in fibrogenesis. However, whether targeting signaling pathways involved in abnormal ECM organization improves the intratumoral penetration of nanomedicines is unknown. Here, we show that targeting transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)/Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) 1/2 signaling in PSCs normalizes ECM organization and concomitantly improves macromolecular permeability of the fibrotic stroma. Using a 3-dimensional cell culture model of the fibrotic pancreatic cancer microenvironment, we found that pharmacological inhibition of TGFβ or ROCK1/2 improves the permeation of various macromolecules. By using an isoform-specific pharmacological inhibitor and siRNAs, we show that targeting ROCK2, but not ROCK1, alone is sufficient to normalize ECM organization and improve macromolecular permeability. Moreover, we found that ROCK2 inhibition/knockdown attenuates Yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear localization in fibroblasts co-cultured with pancreatic cancer cells in 3D. Finally, pharmacological inhibition or siRNA-mediated knockdown of YAP normalized ECM organization and improved macromolecular permeability. Our results together suggest that the TGFβ/ROCK2/YAP signaling axis may be therapeutically targeted to normalize ECM organization and improve macromolecular permeability to augment therapeutic efficacy of nanomedicines in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takuya Miyazaki
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (KISTEC), 705-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina-shi, Kanagawa 243-0435, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi 980-8574, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-8530, Japan.
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2
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Huang Y, Mao CR, Lou Y, Zhan S, Chen Z, Ding W, Ma Z. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of an Orally Bioavailable, Potent, and Selective ROCK2 Inhibitor for Psoriasis Treatment. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15205-15229. [PMID: 37943013 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis, a prevalent chronic skin disorder, remains a significant therapeutic obstacle. This study centers on rho-associated coiled-coil-containing kinase2 (ROCK2) as an advantageous target for treating psoriasis and identifies five potent and selective ROCK2 inhibitors (A31-35). Notably, A32-35 outperform KD025 in ROCK2/ROCK1 selectivity by up to 216-fold. Among these candidates, A31 emerged as an exceedingly promising molecule, showcasing remarkable inhibitory potency (IC50 = 3.7 ± 0.8 nM), 19-fold ROCK2/ROCK1 selectivity, and favorable pharmacokinetics. Insights from the binding mode study further underscored the pivotal role of interactions with Phe103 on the P-loop in determining the selectivity between ROCK1 and ROCK2. In an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model, oral administration of A31 notably ameliorated symptoms by targeting the IL-23/Th17 axis. Based on these compelling findings, A31 was selected as a highly promising compound for further investigation as a potential treatment for psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Huang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Chu-Ru Mao
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Yijie Lou
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shuai Zhan
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Wanjing Ding
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
| | - Zhongjun Ma
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, China
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
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3
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Polopalli S, Saha A, Niri P, Kumar M, Das P, Kamboj DV, Chattopadhyay P. ROCK Inhibitors as an Alternative Therapy for Corneal Grafting: A Systematic Review. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:585-599. [PMID: 37738326 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, corneal blindness is affecting >10 million individuals worldwide, and there is a significant unmet medical need because only 1.5% of transplantation needs are met globally due to a lack of high-quality grafts. In light of this global health disaster, researchers are developing corneal substitutes that can resemble the human cornea in vivo and replace human donor tissue. Thus, this review examines ROCK (Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinases) inhibitors as a potential corneal wound-healing (CWH) therapy by reviewing the existing clinical and nonclinical findings. The systematic review was done from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for CWH, corneal injury, corneal endothelial wound healing, ROCK inhibitors, Fasudil, Netarsudil, Ripasudil, Y-27632, clinical trial, clinical study, case series, case reports, preclinical study, in vivo, and in vitro studies. After removing duplicates, all downloaded articles were examined. The literature search included the data till January 2023. This review summarized the results of ROCK inhibitors in clinical and preclinical trials. In a clinical trial, various ROCK inhibitors improved CWH in individuals with open-angle glaucoma, cataract, iris cyst, ocular hypertension, and other ocular diseases. ROCK inhibitors also improved ocular wound healing by increasing cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation in vitro and in vivo. ROCK inhibitors have antifibrotic, antiangiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic characteristics in CWH, according to the existing research. ROCK inhibitors were effective topical treatments for corneal infections. Ripasudil, Y-27632, H-1152, Y-39983, and AMA0526 are a few new ROCK inhibitors that may help CWH and replace human donor tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subramanyam Polopalli
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Achintya Saha
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Pakter Niri
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
- Department of Chemical Technology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Mohit Kumar
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
| | - Parikshit Das
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
| | - Dev Vrat Kamboj
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
| | - Pronobesh Chattopadhyay
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Tezpur, India
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4
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Candido MF, Medeiros M, Veronez LC, Bastos D, Oliveira KL, Pezuk JA, Valera ET, Brassesco MS. Drugging Hijacked Kinase Pathways in Pediatric Oncology: Opportunities and Current Scenario. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020664. [PMID: 36839989 PMCID: PMC9966033 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020664] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Childhood cancer is considered rare, corresponding to ~3% of all malignant neoplasms in the human population. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a universal occurrence of more than 15 cases per 100,000 inhabitants around the globe, and despite improvements in diagnosis, treatment and supportive care, one child dies of cancer every 3 min. Consequently, more efficient, selective and affordable therapeutics are still needed in order to improve outcomes and avoid long-term sequelae. Alterations in kinases' functionality is a trademark of cancer and the concept of exploiting them as drug targets has burgeoned in academia and in the pharmaceutical industry of the 21st century. Consequently, an increasing plethora of inhibitors has emerged. In the present study, the expression patterns of a selected group of kinases (including tyrosine receptors, members of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK pathways, coordinators of cell cycle progression, and chromosome segregation) and their correlation with clinical outcomes in pediatric solid tumors were accessed through the R2: Genomics Analysis and Visualization Platform and by a thorough search of published literature. To further illustrate the importance of kinase dysregulation in the pathophysiology of pediatric cancer, we analyzed the vulnerability of different cancer cell lines against their inhibition through the Cancer Dependency Map portal, and performed a search for kinase-targeted compounds with approval and clinical applicability through the CanSAR knowledgebase. Finally, we provide a detailed literature review of a considerable set of small molecules that mitigate kinase activity under experimental testing and clinical trials for the treatment of pediatric tumors, while discuss critical challenges that must be overcome before translation into clinical options, including the absence of compounds designed specifically for childhood tumors which often show differential mutational burdens, intrinsic and acquired resistance, lack of selectivity and adverse effects on a growing organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ferreira Candido
- Department of Cell Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Medeiros
- Regional Blood Center, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana Chain Veronez
- Department of Pediatrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - David Bastos
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla Laissa Oliveira
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil
| | - Julia Alejandra Pezuk
- Departament of Biotechnology and Innovation, Anhanguera University of São Paulo, UNIAN/SP, São Paulo 04119-001, SP, Brazil
| | - Elvis Terci Valera
- Department of Pediatrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - María Sol Brassesco
- Departament of Biotechnology and Innovation, Anhanguera University of São Paulo, UNIAN/SP, São Paulo 04119-001, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-16-3315-9144; Fax: +55-16-3315-4886
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Liu X, Jiang Y, Zhou H, Zhao X, Li M, Bao Z, Wang Z, Zhang C, Xie Z, Zhao J, Dong Z, Liu K, Guo Z. Dasabuvir suppresses esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo through targeting ROCK1. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:118. [PMID: 36781836 PMCID: PMC9924867 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05633-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an upper gastrointestinal cancer with high morbidity and mortality. New strategies are urgently needed to prolong patients' survival. Through screening FDA-approved drugs, we found dasabuvir, a drug approved for hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, suppressed ESCC proliferation. Dasabuvir could inhibit the growth of ESCC cells in a time and dose-dependent manner and arrested cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. The antitumor activity was further validated in vivo using patient-derived xenograft tumor models. In terms of mechanism, we unveil that dasabuvir is a Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) inhibitor. Dasabuvir can bind to ROCK1 and suppress its kinase activity, thus downregulating the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 by ROCK1 and the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) and cyclin D1. These results provide evidence that dasabuvir suppresses ESCC growth in vivo and in vitro through blocking ROCK1/ERK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinning Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Jiang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaokun Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Mingzhu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhuo Bao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zitong Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chenyang Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhenliang Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jimin Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, China
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Henan Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, China.
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Zhiping Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- China-US Hormel (Henan) Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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6
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Hu P, Wan P, Xu A, Yan B, Liu C, Xu Q, Wei Z, Xu J, Liu S, Yang G, Pan Y. Neferine, a novel ROCK1-targeting inhibitor, blocks EMT process and induces apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:553-566. [PMID: 35984492 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04280-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The compounds derived from Traditional Chinese Medicines have shown various pharmacological activities with unique advantages, especially in the aspect of antitumor. Neferine (Nef), a natural compound, extracted from green seed embryos of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) also exerts antitumor effects on cancers. In this study, the effects and mechanisms of Nef on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were evaluated. The results showed that Nef had the antitumor effects in vivo and in vitro. Nef significantly suppressed cell viability and induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells, with elevated reactive oxygen species and reduced BCL2/BAX ratio. Nef was also demonstrated to inhibit the invasion, metastasis and EMT process of NSCLC cells, and attenuate EMT-related changes of E-cadherin, N-cadherin and Vimentin at both transcriptional and translational levels. Moreover, we concluded that the inhibitory effects of Nef on EMT was achieved by targeting Rho-associated protein kinase 1, a protein mediating the process of EMT in various cancers. These results showed that Nef had a significant antitumor effect on NSCLC cells by inducing apoptosis and blocking EMT, providing the therapeutical prospect on NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Peng Wan
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Anna Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Binghui Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chunmei Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qixuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhenhuan Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jingyi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Siqi Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Guangming Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yang Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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7
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Espejo-Cruz ML, González-Rubio S, Espejo JJ, Zamora-Olaya JM, Alejandre-Altamirano RM, Prieto-Torre M, Linares CI, Guerrero-Misas M, Barrera-Baena P, Poyato-González A, Sánchez-Frías M, Ayllón MD, Rodríguez-Perálvarez ML, de la Mata M, Ferrín G. Enumeration and Characterization of Circulating Tumor Cells in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Transarterial Chemoembolization. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032558. [PMID: 36768881 PMCID: PMC9916725 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and particularly circulating cancer stem cells (cCSC), are prognostic biomarkers for different malignancies and may be detected using liquid biopsies. The ex vivo culture of cCSCs would provide valuable information regarding biological aggressiveness and would allow monitoring the adaptive changes acquired by the tumor in real time. In this prospective pilot study, we analyzed the presence of EpCAM+ CTCs using the IsoFlux system in the peripheral blood of 37 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). The average patient age was 63.5 ± 7.9 years and 91.9% of the patients were men. All patients had detectable CTCs at baseline and 20 patients (54.1%) showed CTC aggregates or clusters in their peripheral blood. The increased total tumor diameter (OR: 2.5 (95% CI: 1.3-4.8), p = 0.006) and the absence of clusters of CTCs at baseline (OR: 0.2 (95% CI: 0.0-1.0), p = 0.049) were independent predictors of a diminished response to TACE. Culture of cCSC was successful in five out of thirty-three patients, mostly using negative enrichment of CD45- cells, ultra-low adherence, high glucose, and a short period of hypoxia followed by normoxia. In conclusion, the identification of clusters of CTCs before TACE and the implementation of standardized approaches for cCSC culture could aid to predict outcomes and to define the optimal adjuvant therapeutic strategy for a true personalized medicine in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- María L. Espejo-Cruz
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra González-Rubio
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Juan J. Espejo
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Javier M. Zamora-Olaya
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Rafael M. Alejandre-Altamirano
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - María Prieto-Torre
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Clara I. Linares
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Marta Guerrero-Misas
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Pilar Barrera-Baena
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Poyato-González
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Marina Sánchez-Frías
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - María D. Ayllón
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel L. Rodríguez-Perálvarez
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Manuel de la Mata
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Gustavo Ferrín
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Du X, Wei H, Zhang B, Wang B, Li Z, Pang LK, Zhao R, Yao W. Molecular mechanisms of osteosarcoma metastasis and possible treatment opportunities. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1117867. [PMID: 37197432 PMCID: PMC10183593 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1117867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In osteosarcoma patients, metastasis of the primary cancer is the leading cause of death. At present, management options to prevent metastasis are limited and non-curative. In this study, we review the current state of knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of metastasis and discuss promising new therapies to combat osteosarcoma metastasis. Genomic and epigenomic changes, metabolic reprogramming, transcription factors, dysregulation of physiologic pathways, and alterations to the tumor microenvironment are some of the changes reportedly involved in the regulation of osteosarcoma metastasis. Key factors within the tumor microenvironment include infiltrating lymphocytes, macrophages, cancer-associated fibroblasts, platelets, and extracellular components such as vesicles, proteins, and other secreted molecules. We conclude by discussing potential osteosarcoma-limiting agents and their clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhui Du
- Bone Soft Tissue Department, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Digital Assessment of Spinal-Pelvic Tumor and Surgical Aid Tools Design (Zhengzhou), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Perioperative Digital Assessment of Bone Tumors (Henan), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Xinhui Du,
| | - Hua Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Boya Zhang
- Bone Soft Tissue Department, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Digital Assessment of Spinal-Pelvic Tumor and Surgical Aid Tools Design (Zhengzhou), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Perioperative Digital Assessment of Bone Tumors (Henan), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bangmin Wang
- Bone Soft Tissue Department, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Digital Assessment of Spinal-Pelvic Tumor and Surgical Aid Tools Design (Zhengzhou), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Perioperative Digital Assessment of Bone Tumors (Henan), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhehuang Li
- Bone Soft Tissue Department, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Digital Assessment of Spinal-Pelvic Tumor and Surgical Aid Tools Design (Zhengzhou), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Perioperative Digital Assessment of Bone Tumors (Henan), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lon Kai Pang
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ruiying Zhao
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Weitao Yao
- Bone Soft Tissue Department, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Digital Assessment of Spinal-Pelvic Tumor and Surgical Aid Tools Design (Zhengzhou), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Perioperative Digital Assessment of Bone Tumors (Henan), Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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9
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Jeon JH, Im S, Kim HS, Lee D, Jeong K, Ku JM, Nam TG. Chemical Chaperones to Inhibit Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress: Implications in Diseases. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:4385-4397. [PMID: 36583112 PMCID: PMC9793730 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s393816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for structural transformation or folding of de novo proteins for transport to the Golgi. When the folding capacity of the ER is exceeded or excessive accumulation of misfolded proteins occurs, the ER enters a stressed condition (ER stress) and unfolded protein responses (UPR) are triggered in order to rescue cells from the stress. Recovery of ER proceeds toward either survival or cell apoptosis. ER stress is implicated in many pathologies, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, neurodegeneration, and lysosomal storage diseases. As a survival or adaptation mechanism, chaperone molecules are upregulated to manage ER stress. Chemical versions of chaperone have been developed in search of drug candidates for ER stress-related diseases. In this review, synthetic or semi-synthetic chemical chaperones are categorized according to potential therapeutic area and listed along with their chemical structure and activity. Although only a few chemical chaperones have been approved as pharmaceutical drugs, a dramatic increase in literatures over the recent decades indicates enormous amount of efforts paid by many researchers. The efforts warrant clearer understanding of ER stress and the related diseases and consequently will offer a promising drug discovery platform with chaperone activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Ho Jeon
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA campus, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Somyoung Im
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA campus, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Shin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA campus, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongyun Lee
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA campus, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwiwan Jeong
- Gyeonggi Bio-Center, Gyeonggido Business and Science Accelerator, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Mo Ku
- Gyeonggi Bio-Center, Gyeonggido Business and Science Accelerator, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Gyu Nam
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA campus, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea,Correspondence: Tae-Gyu Nam, Tel +82-31-400-5807, Fax +82-31-400-5958, Email
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10
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Axonal Regeneration: Underlying Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123186. [PMID: 36551942 PMCID: PMC9775075 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Axons in the peripheral nervous system have the ability to repair themselves after damage, whereas axons in the central nervous system are unable to do so. A common and important characteristic of damage to the spinal cord, brain, and peripheral nerves is the disruption of axonal regrowth. Interestingly, intrinsic growth factors play a significant role in the axonal regeneration of injured nerves. Various factors such as proteomic profile, microtubule stability, ribosomal location, and signalling pathways mark a line between the central and peripheral axons' capacity for self-renewal. Unfortunately, glial scar development, myelin-associated inhibitor molecules, lack of neurotrophic factors, and inflammatory reactions are among the factors that restrict axonal regeneration. Molecular pathways such as cAMP, MAPK, JAK/STAT, ATF3/CREB, BMP/SMAD, AKT/mTORC1/p70S6K, PI3K/AKT, GSK-3β/CLASP, BDNF/Trk, Ras/ERK, integrin/FAK, RhoA/ROCK/LIMK, and POSTN/integrin are activated after nerve injury and are considered significant players in axonal regeneration. In addition to the aforementioned pathways, growth factors, microRNAs, and astrocytes are also commendable participants in regeneration. In this review, we discuss the detailed mechanism of each pathway along with key players that can be potentially valuable targets to help achieve quick axonal healing. We also identify the prospective targets that could help close knowledge gaps in the molecular pathways underlying regeneration and shed light on the creation of more powerful strategies to encourage axonal regeneration after nervous system injury.
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11
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Pan T, Wang S, Feng H, Xu J, Zhang M, Yao Y, Xu K, Niu M. Preclinical evaluation of the ROCK1 inhibitor, GSK269962A, in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1064470. [PMID: 36561342 PMCID: PMC9763303 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1064470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy with high mortality that urgently requires new treatments. ROCK1 plays an essential role in regulating growth and survival in AML cells. In this study, we evaluated GSK269962A, a selective ROCK1 inhibitor, in preclinical models of AML. Compared with solid tumors, GSK269962A selectively inhibited cell growth and clonogenicity of AML cells. Furthermore, GSK269962A arrested AML cells in the G2 phase and induced apoptosis by regulating multiple cell cycle- and apoptosis-associated proteins. Strikingly, GSK269962A could eliminate leukemia cells from bone marrow, liver, and spleen in an animal model of AML and significantly prolong mouse survival. Mechanistically, GSK269962A could inhibit the growth of AML by blocking ROCK1/c-Raf/ERK signaling pathway. Notably, a correlation was found between the expression levels of ROCK1 protein and the sensitivity of GSK269962A in AML. These data highlight the potential role of ROCK1 as an attractive target for treating AML, as well as the potential of GSK269962A for use in clinical trials of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Pan
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sijia Wang
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hao Feng
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiawen Xu
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kailin Xu
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Kailin Xu, ; Mingshan Niu,
| | - Mingshan Niu
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Kailin Xu, ; Mingshan Niu,
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12
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Liu Q, Zhu A, Gao W, Gui F, Zou Y, Zhou X, Hong Z. miR‑5590‑3p inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of renal cancer cells by targeting ROCK2 to inhibit proliferation, migration and invasion. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:377. [PMID: 36238848 PMCID: PMC9494665 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to clarify the role of microRNA (miR)-5590-3p in the progression of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and investigate the underlying mechanisms. The expression levels of miR-5590-3p, Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK)2 and β-catenin in RCC cells were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis. Following overexpression of miR-5590-3p and ROCK2 by transfection of miR-5590-3p mimics and GV367-ROCK2, respectively, changes in the proliferation, migration and invasion of RCC cells were determined through colony-formation, wound-healing and Transwell assays, respectively. The direct binding interaction between miR-5590-3p and ROCK2, initially predicted using Targetscan, was validated by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. The results indicated that miR-5590-3p was downregulated in RCC. Overexpression of miR-5590-3p led to downregulation of ROCK2 and β-catenin and inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of RCC cells. The dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed the binding relationship between miR-5590-3p and ROCK2. Of note, overexpression of ROCK2 effectively reversed the regulatory effects of miR-5590-3p on RCC cells. In conclusion, miR-5590-3p inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of RCC cells by targeting ROCK2, which is a potential molecular biomarker and therapeutic target for RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queling Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Anyi Zhu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Weiyin Gao
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fu Gui
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yan Zou
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xiaocheng Zhou
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhengdong Hong
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Feng Z, Ou Y, Hao L. The roles of glycolysis in osteosarcoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:950886. [PMID: 36059961 PMCID: PMC9428632 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.950886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is of great significance in the progression of various cancers and is critical for cancer progression, diagnosis, and treatment. Cellular metabolic pathways mainly include glycolysis, fat metabolism, glutamine decomposition, and oxidative phosphorylation. In cancer cells, reprogramming metabolic pathways is used to meet the massive energy requirement for tumorigenesis and development. Metabolisms are also altered in malignant osteosarcoma (OS) cells. Among reprogrammed metabolisms, alterations in aerobic glycolysis are key to the massive biosynthesis and energy demands of OS cells to sustain their growth and metastasis. Numerous studies have demonstrated that compared to normal cells, glycolysis in OS cells under aerobic conditions is substantially enhanced to promote malignant behaviors such as proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of OS. Glycolysis in OS is closely related to various oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and numerous signaling pathways have been reported to be involved in the regulation of glycolysis. In recent years, a vast number of inhibitors and natural products have been discovered to inhibit OS progression by targeting glycolysis-related proteins. These potential inhibitors and natural products may be ideal candidates for the treatment of osteosarcoma following hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials. In this article, we explore key pathways, glycolysis enzymes, non-coding RNAs, inhibitors, and natural products regulating aerobic glycolysis in OS cells to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between glycolysis and the progression of OS and discover novel therapeutic approaches targeting glycolytic metabolism in OS.
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14
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Shi J, Wei L. Rho Kinases in Embryonic Development and Stem Cell Research. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2022; 70:4. [PMID: 35043239 PMCID: PMC8766376 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-022-00642-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinases (ROCKs or Rho kinases) belong to the AGC (PKA/PKG/PKC) family of serine/threonine kinases and are major downstream effectors of small GTPase RhoA, a key regulator of actin-cytoskeleton reorganization. The ROCK family contains two members, ROCK1 and ROCK2, which share 65% overall identity and 92% identity in kinase domain. ROCK1 and ROCK2 were assumed to be functionally redundant, based largely on their major common activators, their high degree kinase domain homology, and study results from overexpression with kinase constructs or chemical inhibitors. ROCK signaling research has expanded to all areas of biology and medicine since its discovery in 1996. The rapid advance is befitting ROCK’s versatile functions in modulating various cell behavior, such as contraction, adhesion, migration, proliferation, polarity, cytokinesis, and differentiation. The rapid advance is noticeably driven by an extensive linking with clinical medicine, including cardiovascular abnormalities, aberrant immune responsive, and cancer development and metastasis. The rapid advance during the past decade is further powered by novel biotechnologies including CRISPR-Cas and single cell omics. Current consensus, derived mainly from gene targeting and RNA interference approaches, is that the two ROCK isoforms have overlapping and distinct cellular, physiological and pathophysiology roles. In this review, we present an overview of the milestone discoveries in ROCK research. We then focus on the current understanding of ROCK signaling in embryonic development, current research status using knockout and knockin mouse models, and stem cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjian Shi
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Indiana University, 1044 West Walnut Street, R4-370, Indianapolis, IN, 46202-5225, USA.
| | - Lei Wei
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Indiana University, 1044 West Walnut Street, R4-370, Indianapolis, IN, 46202-5225, USA.
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15
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Espejo-Cruz ML, González-Rubio S, Zamora-Olaya J, Amado-Torres V, Alejandre R, Sánchez-Frías M, Ciria R, De la Mata M, Rodríguez-Perálvarez M, Ferrín G. Circulating Tumor Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review and Critical Appraisal. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313073. [PMID: 34884878 PMCID: PMC8657934 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common neoplasm and a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide. There is no ideal biomarker allowing early diagnosis of HCC and tumor surveillance in patients receiving therapy. Liquid biopsy, and particularly circulating tumor cells (CTCs), have emerged as a useful tool for diagnosis and monitoring therapeutic responses in different tumors. In the present manuscript, we evaluate the current evidence supporting the quantitative and qualitative assessment of CTCs as potential biomarkers of HCC, as well as technical aspects related to isolation, identification, and classification of CTCs. Although the dynamic assessment of CTCs in patients with HCC may aid the decision-making process, there are still many uncertainties and technical caveats to be solved before this methodology has a true impact on clinical practice guidelines. More studies are needed to identify the optimal combination of surface markers, to increase the efficiency of ex-vivo expansion of CTCs, or even to target CTCs as a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent HCC recurrence after surgery or to hamper tumor progression and extrahepatic spreading.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Lola Espejo-Cruz
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
| | - Sandra González-Rubio
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
| | - Javier Zamora-Olaya
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Víctor Amado-Torres
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Rafael Alejandre
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Marina Sánchez-Frías
- Department of Pathology, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain;
| | - Rubén Ciria
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel De la Mata
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Rodríguez-Perálvarez
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Gustavo Ferrín
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (M.L.E.-C.); (S.G.-R.); (J.Z.-O.); (V.A.-T.); (R.A.); (R.C.); (M.D.l.M.); (G.F.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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