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Shirima CA, Bleotu C, Spandidos DA, El-Naggar AK, Pircalabioru GG, Michalopoulos I. Epithelial‑derived head and neck squamous tumourigenesis (Review). Oncol Rep 2024; 52:141. [PMID: 39219259 PMCID: PMC11358675 DOI: 10.3892/or.2024.8800] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), a heterogeneous group of cancers that arise from the mucosal epithelia cells in the head and neck areas, present great challenges in diagnosis, treatment and prognosis due to their complex aetiology and various clinical manifestations. Several factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, oncogenic genes, growth factors, Epstein‑Barr virus and human papillomavirus infections can contribute to HNSCC development. The unpredictable tumour microenvironment adds to the complexity of managing HNSCC. Despite significant advances in therapies, the prediction of outcome after treatment for patients with HNSCC remains poor, and the 5‑year overall survival rate is low due to late diagnosis. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment. The present review aimed to bring together the latest findings related to the molecular mechanisms of HNSCC carcinogenesis and progression. Comprehensive genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, microbiome and proteomic analyses allow researchers to identify important biological markers such as genetic alterations, gene expression signatures and protein markers that drive HNSCC tumours. These biomarkers associated with the stages of initiation, progression and metastasis of cancer are useful in the management of patients with cancer in order to improve their life expectancy and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Adolfu Shirima
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Coralia Bleotu
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Department, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Adel K. El-Naggar
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | | | - Ioannis Michalopoulos
- Centre of Systems Biology, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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2
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Lai J, Yang H, Chen J, Chen S, Chen X. Predicting radiotherapy efficacy and prognosis in tongue squamous cell carcinoma through an in-depth analysis of a radiosensitivity gene signature. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1334747. [PMID: 39252950 PMCID: PMC11381225 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1334747] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is a prevalent tumor that affects many people worldwide. Radiotherapy is a common treatment option, but its efficacy varies greatly. This study seeks to validate the identified gene signature associated with radiosensitivity in TSCC, and its potential in predicting radiotherapy response and prognosis. Methods We analyzed 122 TSCC patients from TCGA database using the radiosensitivity signature and classified them into radiosensitive (RS) and radioresistant (RR) groups. Immune infiltration analysis methods were applied to investigate the immune status between different subgroups. Immunophenotype Score (IPS) and pRRophetic algorithm were employed to estimate the efficiency of treatment. A radioresistant TSCC cell line was established by gradually increasing radiation doses. Cell radiosensitivity was evaluated using the CCK-8 and colony formation assays. The expression of radiosensitivity-related genes was validated by qRT-PCR. Results Our study validated the predictive capacity of a previously identified "31-gene signature" in the TCGA-TSCC cohort, which effectively stratified patients into RS and RR groups. We observed that the RS group exhibited superior overall survival and progression-free survival rates relative to the RR group when treated with radiotherapy. The RS group was significantly enriched in most immune-related hallmark pathways, and may therefore benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, the RS group displayed lower sensitivity to first-line chemotherapy. A radioresistant TSCC cell line (CAL-27R) exhibited increased clonogenic potential and cell viability following irradiation, accompanied by downregulation of three radiosensitivity-related genes compared to its parental non-resistant cell (CAL-27). In addition, we constructed and validated a radiosensitivity-related prognostic index (PI) using 4 radiosensitivity-related genes associated with TSCC prognosis. Conclusion We assessed the ability of the radiosensitivity gene signature to predict outcomes in TSCC patients. our research provided valuable insights into the molecular pathways associated with radiosensitivity in TSCC and offered clinicians a practical tool to predict patient radiotherapy effectiveness and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhi Lai
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Hainan Yang
- Department of Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Junjun Chen
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Personalized Diagnosis and Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Jiangxi Cancer Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shoubo Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaofang Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
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Campolo M, Scuderi SA, Filippone A, Bova V, Lombardo SP, Colarossi L, Sava S, Capra AP, De Gaetano F, Portelli M, Militi A, Esposito E, Paterniti I. EZH2 Inhibition to Counteract Oral Cancer Progression through Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Modulation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1102. [PMID: 39204206 PMCID: PMC11357505 DOI: 10.3390/ph17081102] [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: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide. The molecular mechanisms of OSCC pathogenesis are still unknown; however, in recent years, several reports have focused on the role of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in OSCC. Therefore, in this study we aimed to investigate the effects of GSK343, a selective EZH2 inhibitor, and its impact on the signaling pathways in OSCC, using an in vitro and in vivo orthotopic model. In the in vitro model, GSK343 (1, 10, and 25 μM) significantly decreased OSCC cell viability and cell migration through EZH2 inhibition, modulating NF-κB/IκBα pathway activation and eNOS, VEGF, and TGFβ expression, important markers of angiogenesis. In the in vivo model, GSK343 (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) restored tongue tissue architecture and reduced tumor progression through EZH2 inhibition and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway modulation. Moreover, GSK343 reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators; eNOS and TGFβ, markers of angiogenesis; and CD31 and CD34, markers of micro vessel density, respectively. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that GSK343 counteracts oral cancer progression through EZH2/Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation, suggesting that it could be a promising therapeutic approach for OSCC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Campolo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Sarah Adriana Scuderi
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Alessia Filippone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Valentina Bova
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Sofia Paola Lombardo
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, CT, Italy; (S.P.L.); (L.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Lorenzo Colarossi
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, CT, Italy; (S.P.L.); (L.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Serena Sava
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, CT, Italy; (S.P.L.); (L.C.); (S.S.)
| | - Anna Paola Capra
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Federica De Gaetano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Marco Portelli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Science, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Angela Militi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Science, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Emanuela Esposito
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Irene Paterniti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, ME, Italy; (M.C.); (S.A.S.); (A.F.); (V.B.); (A.P.C.); (F.D.G.); (I.P.)
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Park JC, Shin D. Current Landscape of Antibody-Drug Conjugate Development in Head and Neck Cancer. JCO Precis Oncol 2024; 8:e2400179. [PMID: 39151109 DOI: 10.1200/po.24.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are fusions of therapeutic drugs and antibodies conjugated by a linker, designed to deliver a therapeutic payload to cells expressing the target antigen. By delivering the highly cytotoxic agent directly to cancer cells, ADCs are designed to enhance safety and broaden the therapeutic window. Recently, ADCs have demonstrated promising efficacy in various solid tumors and are rapidly expanding their indications. The prognosis of patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains poor, with no new therapeutics since the advent of anti-PD-1 antibodies in 2016, highlighting a critical need for innovative therapies. Recent preliminary results suggest that ADCs could be promising treatment options for HNSCC as they explore a variety of target antigens, payloads, and linkers. However, for successful adaptation of ADCs in the treatment of HNSCC, addressing key challenges such as payload toxicities, antigen heterogeneity, and adaptive resistance will be essential. Current research focused on new ADC structures, including multispecific antibodies and noncytotoxic payloads, and diverse combination approaches, show promise for future advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Chul Park
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Donghoon Shin
- MetroWest Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Framingham, MA
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Jiang W, Yang Q, Yang X, Gan R, Hua H, Ding Z, Si D, Zhu X, Wang X, Zhang H, Gao C. T cell proliferation-related subtypes, prognosis model and characterization of tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34221. [PMID: 39082023 PMCID: PMC11284379 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34221] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Thirty-three synthetic driver genes of T-cell proliferation have recently been identified through genome-scale screening. However, the tumor microenvironment (TME) cell infiltration, prognosis, and response to immunotherapy mediated by multiple T cell proliferation-related genes (TRGs) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remain unclear. Methods This study examined the genetic and transcriptional changes in 771 patients with HNSC by analyzing the TRGs from two independent datasets. Two different subtypes were analyzed to investigate their relationship with immune infiltrating cells in the TME and patient prognosis. The study also developed and validated a risk score to predict overall survival (OS). Furthermore, to enhance the clinical utility of the risk score, an accurate nomogram was constructed by combining the characteristics of this study. Results The low-risk score observed in this study was associated with high levels of immune checkpoint expression and TME immune activation, indicating a favorable OS outcome. Additionally, various factors related to risk scores were depicted. Conclusion Through comprehensive analysis of TRGs in HNSC, our study has revealed the characteristics of the TME and prognosis, providing a basis for further investigation into TRGs and the development of more effective immunotherapy and targeted therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjin Jiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, 241000, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Xiaonan Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Ruijia Gan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Hongting Hua
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Zhimin Ding
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Dongyu Si
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Xinbei Zhu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, 230011, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Huabing Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Metabolic Disease Research Center, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Chaobing Gao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
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6
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Miao Y, Chen Q, Liu X, Bu J, Zhang Z, Liu T, Yue Z, Huang L, Sun S, Li H, Yang A, Yang Z, Chen C. Comprehensive analysis of endoplasmic reticulum stress related signature in head and neck squamous carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16972. [PMID: 39043683 PMCID: PMC11266686 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65090-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSC) is a prevalent malignant disease, with the majority of patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is considered to be a process that promotes tumorigenesis and impacts the tumor microenvironment (TME) in various cancers. The study aims to investigate the predictive value of ERS in HNSC and explore the correlation between ERS-related genes and TME. A series of bioinformatics analyses were carried out based on mRNA and scRNA-seq data from the TCGA and GEO databases. We conducted RT-qPCR and western blot to validate the signature, and performed cell functional experiments to investigate the in vitro biological functions of the gene. We identified 63 ERS-related genes that were associated with outcome and stage in HNSC. A three-gene signature (ATF6, TRIB3, and UBXN6) was developed, which presents predictive value in the prognosis and immunotherapy response of HNSC patients. The high-risk group exhibited a worse prognosis but may benefit from immunotherapy. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between the signature and immune infiltration. In the high-risk group, fibroblasts were more active in intercellular communication, and more T cells were observed at the end of the sequential phase. The genes in the ERS-related signature were overexpressed in HNSC cells, and the knockdown of TRIB3 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration. This study established a novel ERS-related signature that has potential implications for HNSC therapy and the understanding of TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Miao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaorong Chen
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Bu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuoqi Zhang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongjing Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenjie Yue
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhen Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuaishuai Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Li
- The Second Clinical College of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570100, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankui Yang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyuan Yang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Cuifang Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, 16th Floor, No. 2 Inpatient Building, Qingyuan, People's Republic of China.
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Wang Q, Meng D, Shen S, Cao Y, Zhang P, Liu Y, Du L, Li H, Shao C, Dong Q. P4HA3 promotes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma progression via the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 260:155481. [PMID: 39053135 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Here, we explored the role of Prolyl 4-Hydroxylase Subunit Alpha 3 (P4HA3), the most recently identified member of the prolyl-4-hydroxylase (P4H) family, in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) progression. P4HA3 is upregulated during cancer progression; however, its specific role in HNSCC progression remains elusive. Thus, this study aimed to elucidate the regulatory function of P4HA3 in HNSCC development and progression and to describe the underlying mechanisms. Initially, we analyzed the correlation between the expression of P4HA3 and the WNT pathway genes and clinicopathologic features in HNSCC based on microarray data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Next, we used Gene Oncology (GO) functional data to describe several potentially associated pathways in HNSCC. Then, we knocked down P4HA3 in SCC15 and SCC25 cells, two classic HNSCC cell lines, and assessed the resulting changes using RT-qPCR. Furthermore, we used Western blot to evaluate the regulatory role of P4HA3 in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. To explore the effect of P4HA3 knockdown on tumor progression, in vivo experiments were conducted using a murine model. Immunohistochemistry assays were then employed to identify proteins associated with EMT and the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway in tumor tissues. Upregulated P4HA3 in HNSCC patient tumor tissues was positively correlated with poor prognosis. Notably, P4HA3 knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferative and invasive abilities of HNSCC. The levels of genes and proteins associated with EMT and the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway were also markedly reduced by P4HA3 knockdown. Importantly, the in vivo experiments demonstrated that P4HA3 can promote subcutaneous tumorigenesis in nude mice and knockdown of P4HA3 induce a significant ihibitation of EMT and WNT/β-catenin pathway detected by immunohistochemistry assay in tumor tissues. In summary, we demonstrated that P4HA3 is a promising diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for HNSCC. As an oncogene, P4HA3 increases HNSCC proliferation by inducing the EMT and activating the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quannian Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154007, China; Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Danyang Meng
- School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154007, China; Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Si Shen
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Pengcheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Lianqun Du
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Hua Li
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300050, China.
| | - Changli Shao
- School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154007, China.
| | - Qingyang Dong
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China.
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Ostapowicz J, Ostrowska K, Golusiński W, Kulcenty K, Suchorska WM. Improving therapeutic strategies for Head and Neck Cancer: Insights from 3D hypoxic cell culture models in treatment response evaluation. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:368-376. [PMID: 39047970 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.07.007] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Hypoxia in the tumor core negatively affects the outcome of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Nevertheless, its role in predicting treatment response requires further exploration. Typically, reduced oxygen levels in the tumor core correlate with diminished efficacy of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, which are commonly used for HNSCC patients' treatment. Understanding the mechanistic underpinnings of these varied treatment responses in HNSCC is crucial for enhancing therapeutic outcomes and extending patients' overall survival (OS) rates. Standard monolayer cell culture conditions have major limitations in mimicking tumor physiological features and the complexity of the tumor microenvironment. Three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures enable the recreation of the in vivo tumor attributes, encompassing oxygen and nutrient gradients, cellular morphology, and intracellular connections. It is vital to use the 3D model in treatment response studies to mimic the tumor microenvironment, as evidenced by the decreased sensitivity of 3D structures to anticancer therapy. Accordingly, the aim of the study was to delineate the utility of the 3D models of hypoxic head and neck tumors in drug screening and treatment response studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ostapowicz
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Radiobiology Laboratory, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland; Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Kamila Ostrowska
- Radiobiology Laboratory, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland; Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wojciech Golusiński
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kulcenty
- Radiobiology Laboratory, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Wiktoria M Suchorska
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Radiobiology Laboratory, The Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
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9
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Zhang JW, Gao XL, Li S, Zhuang SH, Liang QW. Integrated analysis of methylation and transcriptome identifies a novel risk model for diagnosis, prognosis, and immune characteristics in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Genet Genomics 2024; 299:71. [PMID: 39031208 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-024-02164-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification that plays a crucial role in the development and progression of various tumors. However, the association between methylation‑driven genes and diagnosis, prognosis, and immune characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear. METHODS We obtained transcriptome, methylation, and clinical data from HNSCC patients in TCGA database, and used MethylMix algorithm to identify methylation-driven genes. A methylation driven gene-related risk model was constructed using Lasso regression analysis, and validated using data from GEO database. Immune infiltration and immune function analysis of the expression profiles were conducted using ssGSEA. Differences in immune checkpoint-related genes were analyzed, and the efficacy of immunotherapy was evaluated using TCIA database. Finally, a series of cell functional experiments were conducted to validate the results. RESULTS Five methylation-driven genes were identified and utilized to construct a prognostic risk model. Based on the median risk score, all patients were categorized into high-risk and low-risk groups. The K-M analysis revealed that patients in the high-risk group have a worse prognosis. Additionally, the risk model demonstrated better prognostic predictive value as indicated by ROC analysis. GSEA enrichment analysis indicated that gene sets in the high and low-risk groups were primarily enriched in pathways associated with tumor immunity and metabolism. Our subsequent investigations showed that high-risk patients exhibited more immunosuppressive phenotypes, while low-risk patients were more likely to respond positively to immunotherapy. CONCLUSION These findings of our research have the potential to improve patient stratification, guide treatment decisions, and advance the development of personalized therapies for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Wei Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Longgang Center Hospital, the Ninth People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Xi-Lin Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology of Longgang Center Hospital, the Ninth People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Longgang Center Hospital, the Ninth People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Shuang-Hao Zhuang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Longgang Center Hospital, the Ninth People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Qi-Wei Liang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Longgang Center Hospital, the Ninth People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518116, China.
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Arumugam P, M SM, Jayaseelan VP. Pathogenic loss-of-function mutations in LRP1B are associated with poor survival in head and neck cancer patients. JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 2024:101971. [PMID: 39032644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2024.101971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) present a significant challenge in the medical field due to treatment resistance, which often hinders successful outcomes. The dysregulation of the LRP1B gene is linked to various cancers, but its specific role in HNSCC is poorly understood. METHODS This study investigated the link between pathogenic loss-of-function mutations in the LRP1B gene and survival outcomes in HNSCC patients. The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC cohort, comprised of 520 tumor and 44 normal tissues, was analyzed using cBioportal, and UALCAN tools. Expression patterns, survival outcomes, and clinical correlations of LRP1B were evaluated. In-depth analyses involved validation of mRNA expression using RT-qPCR and functional exploration using various in-silico tools. RESULTS Analysis of data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and cBioPortal revealed a high frequency (25 %) of LRP1B mutations in HNSCC patients. Notably, splice mutation, truncating mutation, and deep deletion, considered potential drivers, are commonly associated with LRP1B mutations. Patients with LRP1B mutations also exhibit poorer overall survival rates compared to those without these mutations. Furthermore, LRP1B mRNA expression is significantly reduced in HNSCC tissues compared to normal tissues and is correlated with advanced tumor stage, higher tumor grade, and nodal metastasis. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that LRP1B may function as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target in HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramasivam Arumugam
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
| | - Senthil Murugan M
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Vijayashree Priyadharsini Jayaseelan
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, India
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11
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Mao C, Gong L, Kang W. Effect and mechanism of resveratrol on ferroptosis mediated by p53/SLC7A11 in oral squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:773. [PMID: 38987730 PMCID: PMC11238462 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04395-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Resveratrol (Res) is a natural phytoestrogen with antitumor activity. This study sought to investigate the role of Res in ferroptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODS Normal human oral keratinocyte (HOK)/oral OSCC (CAL-27/SCC-9) cell lines were treated with different doses of Res. Res toxicity was determined by MTT assay, with half maximal inhibitory concentration values of Res on CAL-27 and SCC-9 cells calculated. Cell viability/colony formation efficiency/migration/invasion/cycle were assessed by CCK-8/colony formation assay/transwell assay/flow cytometry. The expression of p53 protein in the nucleus and cytoplasm, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression, and SLC7A11 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels were determined by Western blot and RT-qPCR. Fe2+ content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, reduced glutathione (GSH), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were assessed. RESULTS Medium- to low-dose Res had no toxic effect on HOK cells, while high-dose Res markedly reduced HOK cell viability. Res significantly suppressed the viability of OSCC cells (CAL-27 and SCC-9). Res inhibited OSCC cell colony formation/migration/invasion, and induced G1 phase arrest. Res caused the translocation of p53 protein to the nucleus, obviously increased Fe2+ content, ROS level and LDH release, decreased GSH content and GPX4 protein expression, and induced ferroptosis. Down-regulation of p53 partially reversed the inhibitory effects of Res on CAL-27 cell malignant behaviors. Res inhibited SLC7A11 transcription by promoting p53 entry into the nucleus. SLC7A11 overexpression negated the the regulatory effects of p53 knockout on the role of Res in OSCC cell malignant behaviors and ferroptosis. CONCLUSION Res accelerated ferroptosis and inhibited malignant behaviors in OSCC cells by regulating p53/SLC7A11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Mao
- Department of Stomatology, Loudi Central Hospital of Hunan Province, 51 Changqing Middle Street, Loudi, 417000, Hunan, China.
| | - Liqiang Gong
- Department of Stomatology, Loudi Central Hospital of Hunan Province, 51 Changqing Middle Street, Loudi, 417000, Hunan, China
| | - Wenming Kang
- Department of Stomatology, Loudi Central Hospital of Hunan Province, 51 Changqing Middle Street, Loudi, 417000, Hunan, China
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12
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Ye Z, Xiao M, Zhang Y, Zheng A, Zhang D, Chen J, Du F, Zhao Y, Wu X, Li M, Chen Y, Deng S, Shen J, Zhang X, Wen Q, Zhang J, Xiao Z. Identification of tumor stemness and immunity related prognostic factors and sensitive drugs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15962. [PMID: 38987626 PMCID: PMC11236973 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66196-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) contributes significantly to treatment resistance in various cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Despite this, the relationship between cancer stemness and immunity remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to identify potential immunotherapeutic targets and sensitive drugs for CSCs in HNSCC. Using data from public databases, we analyzed expression patterns and prognostic values in HNSCC. The stemness index was calculated using the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssgsea) algorithm, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to screen for key stemness-related modules. Consensus clustering was then used to group samples for further analysis, and prognosis-related key genes were identified through regression analysis. Our results showed that tumor samples from HNSCC exhibited higher stemness indices compared to normal samples. WGCNA identified a module highly correlated with stemness, comprising 187 genes, which were significantly enriched in protein digestion and absorption pathways. Furthermore, we identified sensitive drugs targeting prognostic genes associated with tumor stemness. Notably, two genes, HLF and CCL11, were found to be highly associated with both stemness and immunity. In conclusion, our study identifies a stemness-related gene signature and promising drug candidates for CSCs of HNSCC. Additionally, HLF and CCL11, which are associated with both stemness and immunity, represent potential targets for immunotherapy in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Ye
- Department of Medical Oncology Center, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Mintao Xiao
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yinping Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Anfu Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Duoli Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuai Deng
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- School of Data Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qinglian Wen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Junkai Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology Center, Zhongshan People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China.
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Sichuan College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mianyang, 621000, Sichuan, China.
- Gulin Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Luzhou, China.
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Krsek A, Baticic L, Sotosek V, Braut T. The Role of Biomarkers in HPV-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Towards Precision Medicine. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1448. [PMID: 39001338 PMCID: PMC11241541 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14131448] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) represents a significant global health challenge, with squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) accounting for approximately 90% of all HNC cases. These malignancies, collectively referred to as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), originate from the mucosal epithelium lining the larynx, pharynx, and oral cavity. The primary risk factors associated with HNSCC in economically disadvantaged nations have been chronic alcohol consumption and tobacco use. However, in more affluent countries, the landscape of HNSCC has shifted with the identification of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16, as a major risk factor, especially among nonsmokers. Understanding the evolving risk factors and the distinct biological behaviors of HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC is critical for developing targeted treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes in this complex and diverse group of cancers. Accurate diagnosis of HPV-positive HNSCC is essential for developing a comprehensive model that integrates the molecular characteristics, immune microenvironment, and clinical outcomes. The aim of this comprehensive review was to summarize the current knowledge and advances in the identification of DNA, RNA, and protein biomarkers in bodily fluids and tissues that have introduced new possibilities for minimally or non-invasive cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and assessment of therapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antea Krsek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| | - Lara Baticic
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Vlatka Sotosek
- Department of Clinical Medical Sciences I, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
- Department of Anesthesiology, Reanimatology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tamara Braut
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
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14
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Xie Y, Zuo J, Ding A, Xiong P. Nanocatalytic NO gas therapy against orthotopic oral squamous cell carcinoma by single iron atomic nanocatalysts. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF ADVANCED MATERIALS 2024; 25:2368452. [PMID: 38993242 PMCID: PMC11238653 DOI: 10.1080/14686996.2024.2368452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been being one of the most malignant carcinomas featuring high metastatic and recurrence rates. The current OSCC treatment modalities in clinics severely deteriorate the quality of life of patients due to the impaired oral and maxillofacial functions. In the present work, we have engineered the single-atom Fe nanocatalysts (SAF NCs) with a NO donor (S-nitrosothiol, SNO) via surface modification to achieve synergistic nanocatalytic NO gas therapy against orthotopic OSCC. Upon near-infrared laser irradiation, the photonic hyperthermia could effectively augment the heterogeneous Fenton catalytic activity, meanwhile trigger the thermal decomposition of the engineered NO donor, thus producing toxic hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and antitumor therapeutic NO gas at tumor lesion simultaneously, and consequently inducing the apoptotic cell death of tumors via mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. This therapeutic paradigm presents an effective local OSCC therapeutics in a synergistic manner based on the nanocatalytic NO gas therapy, providing a promising antitumor modality with high biocompatibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jiaxin Zuo
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Angang Ding
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Ping Xiong
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
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15
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Zhai P, Tong T, Wang X, Li C, Liu C, Qin X, Li S, Xie F, Mao J, Zhang J, Guo H. Nuclear miR-451a activates KDM7A and leads to cetuximab resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:282. [PMID: 38943031 PMCID: PMC11335205 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05324-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Cetuximab resistance has been a major challenge for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients receiving targeted therapy. However, the mechanism that causes cetuximab resistance, especially microRNA (miRNA) regulation, remains unclear. Growing evidence suggests that miRNAs may act as "nuclear activating miRNAs" for targeting promoter regions or enhancers related to target genes. This study elucidates a novel mechanism underlying cetuximab resistance in HNSCC involving the nuclear activation of KDM7A transcription via miR-451a. Herein, small RNA sequencing, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) results provided compelling evidence of miR-451a nuclear enrichment in response to cetuximab treatment. Chromatin isolation via RNA purification, microarray analysis, and bioinformatic analysis revealed that miR-451a interacts with an enhancer region in KDM7A, activating its expression and further facilitating cetuximab resistance. It has also been demonstrated that the activation of KDM7A by nuclear miR-451a is induced by cetuximab treatment and is AGO2 dependent. Logistic regression analyses of 87 HNSCC samples indicated the significance of miR-451a and KDM7A in the development of cetuximab resistance. These discoveries support the potential of miR-451a and KDM7A as valuable biomarkers for cetuximab resistance and emphasize the function of nuclear-activating miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peisong Zhai
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong Tong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200001, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Craniomaxillofacial Development and Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuwen Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Qin
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Xie
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Mao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Li X, González-Maroto C, Tavassoli M. Crosstalk between CAFs and tumour cells in head and neck cancer. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:303. [PMID: 38926351 PMCID: PMC11208506 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02053-9] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are amongst the most aggressive, complex, and heterogeneous malignancies. The standard of care treatments for HNC patients include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or their combination. However, around 50% do not benefit while suffering severe toxic side effects, costing the individuals and society. Decades have been spent to improve HNSCC treatment outcomes with only limited success. Much of the research in HNSCC treatment has focused on understanding the genetics of the HNSCC malignant cells, but it has become clear that tumour microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in the progression as well as treatment response in HNSCC. Understanding the crosstalk between cancer cells and TME is crucial for inhibiting progression and treatment resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the predominant component of stroma in HNSCC, serve as the primary source of extra-cellular matrix (ECM) and various pro-tumoral composites in TME. The activation of CAFs in HNSCC is primarily driven by cancer cell-secreted molecules, which in turn induce phenotypic changes, elevated secretive status, and altered ECM production profile. Concurrently, CAFs play a pivotal role in modulating the cell cycle, stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and resistance to targeted and chemoradiotherapy in HNSCC cells. This modulation occurs through interactions with secreted molecules or direct contact with the ECM or CAF. Co-culture and 3D models of tumour cells and other TME cell types allows to mimic the HNSCC tumour milieu and enable modulating tumour hypoxia and reprograming cancer stem cells (CSC). This review aims to provide an update on the development of HNSCC tumour models comprising CAFs to obtain better understanding of the interaction between CAFs and tumour cells, and for providing preclinical testing platforms of current and combination with emerging therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Li
- Head and Neck Oncology Group, Centre for Host Microbiome Interaction, King's College London, Hodgkin Building, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Celia González-Maroto
- Head and Neck Oncology Group, Centre for Host Microbiome Interaction, King's College London, Hodgkin Building, London, SE1 1UL, UK
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Mahvash Tavassoli
- Head and Neck Oncology Group, Centre for Host Microbiome Interaction, King's College London, Hodgkin Building, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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17
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Li Y, Pan X, Luo W, Gamalla Y, Ma Z, Zhou P, Dai C, Han D. TMErisk score: A tumor microenvironment-based model for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31877. [PMID: 38845978 PMCID: PMC11152963 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31877] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) is closely associated with the progression and prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). To investigate potential biomarkers for predicting therapeutic outcomes in HNSCC, we analyzed the immune and stromal status of HNSCC based on the genes associated with TME using the ESTIMATE algorithm. Immune and stromal genes were identified with differential gene expression and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). From these genes, 118 were initially selected through Cox univariate regression and then further input into least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. As a result, 11 genes were screened out for the TME-related risk (TMErisk) score model which presented promising overall survival predictive potential. The TMErisk score was negatively associated with immune and stromal scores but positively associated with tumor purity. Individuals with high TMErisk scores exhibited decreased expression of most immune checkpoints and all human leukocyte antigen family genes, and reduced abundance of infiltrating immune cells. Divergent genes were mutated in HNSCC. In both high and low TMErisk score groups, the tumor protein P53 exhibited the highest mutation frequency. A higher TMErisk score was found to be associated with reduced overall survival probability and worse outcomes of immunotherapy. Therefore, the TMErisk score could serve as a valuable model for the outcome prediction of HNSCC in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity, and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- College of Health Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Department of Otolaryngology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Department of the Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye Ear Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xiaozhou Pan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity, and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- College of Health Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Wenwei Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guang-dong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yaser Gamalla
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
- Department of Oncology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Zhan Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity, and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- College of Health Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Pei Zhou
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Chunfu Dai
- Department of the Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye Ear Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Dingding Han
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity, and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- College of Health Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
- Medical School, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
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Liu B, Si W, Wei B, Zhang X, Chen P. Tumor Necrosis Factor α-Induced Protein 8-Like 1 Binds to Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 1 to Suppress the Methylation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 and Cell Growth in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:1126-1136. [PMID: 38432512 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The tumor necrosis factor α-induced protein 8 (TIPE, also TNFAIP8 or OXi-α) family is a newly discovered series of proteins involved in immune regulation and tumorigenesis. TIPE1, a member of the TIPE/TNFAIP8/OXi-α family, has emerged as an anticancer-drug target, as it promotes cancer cell apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation. The current study aimed to systematically reveal that TIPE1 regulates the activity of protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT)-1 and the subsequent methylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 to suppress oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) growth. TIPE1 was down-regulated in the OSCC cell lines (Tca8113, SCC25, Cal27, SCC15, and HSC27). TIPE1 overexpression significantly inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, in vivo tumorgenicity, and Ki-67 expression in OSCC. TIPE1 interacted with the catalytic region of PRMT1 and inhibited STAT3 methylation. The effects of TIPE1 on OSCC cells were alleviated after PRMT1 overexpression, confirming the importance of this interaction to the tumor-suppressive effects of TIPE1. Together, these findings confirmed that TIPE1 mediated PRMT1 suppression through direct binding to its catalytic domain and subsequently inhibited the methylation and expression of STAT3 in OSCC cells, thereby inhibiting cell growth and tumorgenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Liu
- Department of Stomatology, Air Force Medical Center, Air Force Medical University, People's Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
| | - Wen Si
- Department of Medical Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital-Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Wei
- Department of Stomatology, First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Innovative Medicine Department, Hospital Management Research Institute, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Stomatology, First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Deuss E, Kürten C, Fehr L, Kahl L, Zimmer S, Künzel J, Stauber RH, Lang S, Hussain T, Brandau S. Standardized Digital Image Analysis of PD-L1 Expression in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Reveals Intra- and Inter-Sample Heterogeneity with Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2103. [PMID: 38893222 PMCID: PMC11171694 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
For practical reasons, in many studies PD-L1 expression is measured by combined positive score (CPS) from a single tumor sample. This does not reflect the heterogeneity of PD-L1 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We investigated the extent and relevance of PD-L1 expression heterogeneity in HNSCC analyzing primary tumors and recurrences (LRs), as well as metastases. Tumor tissue from 200 HNSCC patients was immunohistochemically stained for PD-L1 and analyzed using image-analysis software QuPath v3.4 with multiple specimens per patient. CPS was ≥20 in 25.6% of primary tumors. Intra-tumoral heterogeneity led to a therapeutically relevant underestimation of PD-L1 expression in 28.7% of patients, when only one specimen per patient was analyzed. Inter-tumoral differences in PD-L1 expression between primary tumors and lymph node metastasis (LNM) or LR occurred in 44.4% and 61.5% (CPS) and in 40.6% and 50% of cases (TPS). Overall survival was increased in patients with CPS ≥ 1 vs. CPS < 1 in primary tumors and LNM (hazard ratio: 0.46 and 0.35; p < 0.005); CPS in LR was not prognostic. Our analysis shows clinically relevant intra- and inter-sample heterogeneity of PD-L1 expression in HNSCC. To account for heterogeneity and improve patient selection for immunotherapy, multiple sample analyses should be performed, particularly in patients with CPS/TPS < 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Deuss
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Cornelius Kürten
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Lara Fehr
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Laura Kahl
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefanie Zimmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Julian Künzel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Roland H. Stauber
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Institute for Biotechnology, Shanxi University, No. 92 Wucheng Road, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Stephan Lang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Timon Hussain
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Brandau
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany (T.H.); (S.B.)
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20
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Li Y, Gu F, Huang X, Huang W, Xiang J, Yue J, Wang Y, Chen R. FRZB: a potential prognostic marker for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Braz J Med Biol Res 2024; 57:e13368. [PMID: 38775547 PMCID: PMC11101165 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2024e13368] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, with approximately 600,000 new cases each year. A small number of HNSCCs are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Frizzled related protein (FRZB) has been reported in many inflammatory diseases and cancers, but it is yet unclear how FRZB affects HNSCC, as well as its role and underlying mechanism. TIMER2 database was utilized to evaluate FRZB expression in cancer tissues, and FRZB expression in HNSCC tissues was confirmed by samples obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus. To identify whether FRZB could be used as a prognostic predictor, we performed univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. FRZB co-expression profile was explored using the LinkedOmics database, then Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology enrichment analyses were performed for these FRZB-related genes in HNSCC samples. Lasso regression analysis was subsequently used to screen for prognostic variables, and we determined the infiltration of immune cells in HNSCC patients to clarify the influence of FRZB on tumor immune microenvironment. At last, we assessed the association between FRZB expression and immune checkpoint gene, and compared the sensitivity of common chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, we found that FRZB was dysregulated in HNSCC tumor tissues and had a relationship with clinical parameters. The reliability and independence of FRZB as a factor in determining a patient's prognosis for HNSCC was also established. Additional investigation revealed that FRZB was linked to common immune checkpoint genes and may be implicated in immune infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunshan Li
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Feihan Gu
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Xu Huang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Wenkai Huang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Junwei Xiang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Jiayuan Yue
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyin Wang
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| | - Ran Chen
- College & Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University,
Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
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21
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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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22
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Guo ZC, Jing SL, Jia XY, Elayah SA, Xie LY, Cui H, Tu JB, Na SJ. Porphyromonas gingivalis promotes the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma by stimulating the release of neutrophil extracellular traps in the tumor immune microenvironment. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:693-705. [PMID: 38150024 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-023-01822-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) on the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) through neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the tumor immune microenvironment. METHODS The expression of NETs-related markers was identified through immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting in different clinical stages of OSCC samples. The relationship between NETs-related markers and clinicopathological characteristics in 180 samples was analyzed using immunohistochemistry data. Furthermore, the ability to predict the prognosis of OSCC patients was determined by ROC curve analysis and survival analysis. The effect of P. gingivalis on the release of NETs was identified through immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry, both in vitro and in vivo. CAL27 and SCC25 cell lines were subjected to NETs stimulation to elucidate the influence of NETs on various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis in vitro. Furthermore, the impact of NETs on the growth and metastatic potential of OSCC was assessed using in vivo models involving tumor-bearing mice and tumor metastasis mouse models. RESULTS Immunochemistry analysis revealed a significant correlation between the NETs-related markers and clinical stage, living status as well as TN stage. P. gingivalis has demonstrated its ability to effectively induce the release of NETs both in vivo and in vitro. NETs have the potential to facilitate cell migration, invasion, and colony formation. Moreover, in vivo experiments have demonstrated that NETs play a pivotal role in promoting tumor metastasis. CONCLUSION High expression of NETs-related markers demonstrates a strong correlation with the progression of OSCC. Inhibition of the NETs release process stimulated by P. gingivalis and targeted NETs could potentially open up a novel avenue in the field of immunotherapy for patients afflicted with OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Chen Guo
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Si-Li Jing
- Shannxi Eye Hospital, Xi'an People's Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital), Affiliated People's Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Xin-Yu Jia
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Sadam Ahmed Elayah
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Jiblah University for Medical and Health Sciences, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Lin-Yang Xie
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Hao Cui
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jun-Bo Tu
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
| | - Si-Jia Na
- Key Laboratory of Shanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
- Laboratory Center of Stomatology, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China.
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23
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Liu H, Zheng Y, Kan S, Hao M, Jiang H, Li S, Li R, Wang Y, Wang D, Liu W. Melatonin inhibits tongue squamous cell carcinoma: Interplay of ER stress-induced apoptosis and autophagy with cell migration. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29291. [PMID: 38644851 PMCID: PMC11033109 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29291] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) occupies a high proportion of oral squamous cell carcinoma. TSCC features high lymph node metastasis rates and chemotherapy resistance with a poor prognosis. Therefore, an effective therapy strategy is needed to improve patient prognosis. Melatonin (MT) is a natural indole compound shown to have anti-tumor effects in several cancers. This study focused on the role and mechanism of MT in TSCC cells. The results of the study suggest that MT could inhibit cell proliferation in CRL-1623 cells. Western blot analysis showed the down-regulate of cyclin B1 and the up-regulate P21 protein by MT. MT was also shown to down-regulate the expression of Zeb1, Wnt5A/B, and β-catenin protein and up-regulate E-cadherin to inhibit the migration of CRL-1623 cells. MT also promoted the expression of ATF4, ATF6, Bip, BAP31 and CHOP in CRL-1623 cells leading to endoplasmic reticulum stress, and induced autophagy and apoptosis in CRL-1623 cells. Western blots showed that MT could promote the expression of Bax, LC3, and Beclin1 proteins and inhibit the expression of p62. We screened differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in MT-treated cells and found that the expression of MALAT1 and H19 decreased. Moreover, MT inhibited tumor growth in nude mice inoculated with CRL-1623 cells. These results suggest that MT could induce autophagy, promote apoptosis, and provide a potential natural compound for the treatment of TSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
- Department of Stomatology, Shunyi District Hospital, NO.3 Guangming South Street, Shunyi District, Beijing 101300, China
| | - Ye Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Shaoning Kan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Ming Hao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Huan Jiang
- Department of Orthodontics, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Shuangji Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Rong Li
- Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yinyu Wang
- Stomatology Hospital, Baicheng Medical College, Baicheng, 130300, China
| | - Dongxu Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
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24
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Zhang X, Liu Q, Wang L, Peng Q. Identification of protein methyltransferases 5 associated with ferroptosis and immune cell infiltration of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7426-7436. [PMID: 38663941 PMCID: PMC11087109 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205768] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck tumors are malignant tumors that appear in the head and neck. Although much progress has been made in the treatment of head and neck tumors, many challenges remain. The prognosis of some advanced cases remains poor and survival and quality of life after treatment face certain limitations. Therefore, further research into the pathogenesis and treatment options for head and neck tumors is important in order to improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients. The Protein Arginine Methyltransferase (PRMT) family is a class of enzymes that are responsible for adding methyl groups to arginine residues in proteins. PRMT family members play important roles in regulating many cellular processes, such as transcriptional regulation, signaling, and cell cycle regulation. Recent studies have shown that the PRMT family also plays an important function in tumorigenesis and development. Here, we found that PRMT family members are significantly overexpressed in head and neck tumors and that PRMT5 may serve as an independent prognostic factor in head and neck tumors. We found that PRMT5-regulated differential genes were significantly enriched in tumor-associated signaling pathways such as IL-17 and p53. And we also found that the expression of PRMT5 in head and neck tumors was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration, m6A as well as the expression of ferroptosis-related genes, and drug sensitivity. These results suggest that PRMT may play an important role in the development of head and neck tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Zhang
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Second Department of Breast Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lujuan Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiu Peng
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
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25
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Zou J, Dai Y, Xu G, Kai Y, Lan L, Zhang J, Wang Y. Identification of two distinct head and neck squamous cell carcinoma subtypes based on fatty acid metabolism-related signatures: Implications for immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37824. [PMID: 38640298 PMCID: PMC11029997 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of lipid metabolism is a critical factor in the initiation and progression of tumors. In this investigation, we aim to characterize the molecular subtypes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) based on their association with fatty acid metabolism and develop a prognostic risk model. The transcriptomic and clinical data about HNSCC were obtained from public databases. Clustering analysis was conducted on fatty acid metabolism genes (FAMG) associated with prognosis, utilizing the non-negative matrix factorization algorithm. The immune infiltration, response to immune therapy, and drug sensitivity between molecular subtypes were evaluated. Differential expression genes were identified between subtypes, and a prognostic model was constructed using Cox regression analyses. A nomogram for HNSCC was constructed and evaluated. Thirty FAMGs have been found to exhibit differential expression in HNSCC, out of which three are associated with HNSCC prognosis. By performing clustering analysis on these 3 genes, 2 distinct molecular subtypes of HNSCC were identified that exhibit significant heterogeneity in prognosis, immune landscape, and treatment response. Using a set of 7778 genes that displayed differential expression between the 2 molecular subtypes, a prognostic risk model for HNSCC was constructed comprising 11 genes. This model has the ability to stratify HNSCC patients into high-risk and low-risk groups, which exhibit significant differences in prognosis, immune infiltration, and immune therapy response. Moreover, our data suggest that this risk model is negatively correlated with B cells and most T cells, but positively correlated with macrophages, mast cells, and dendritic cells. Ultimately, we constructed a nomogram incorporating both the risk signature and radiotherapy, which has demonstrated exceptional performance in predicting prognosis for HNSCC patients. A molecular classification system and prognostic risk models were developed for HNSCC based on FAMGs. This study revealed the potential involvement of FAMGs in modulating tumor immune microenvironment and response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Zou
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital (Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanbi Dai
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangbo Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yilong Kai
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingfeng Lan
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
| | - Junkun Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First People’s Hospital of Yuhang District (The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Branch), Hangzhou, China
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26
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Jia X, Tian J, Fu Y, Wang Y, Yang Y, Zhang M, Yang C, Liu Y. Identification of AURKA as a Biomarker Associated with Cuproptosis and Ferroptosis in HNSCC. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4372. [PMID: 38673957 PMCID: PMC11050640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cuproptosis and ferroptosis represent copper- and iron-dependent forms of cell death, respectively, and both are known to play pivotal roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, few studies have explored the prognostic signatures related to cuproptosis and ferroptosis in HNSCC. Our objective was to construct a prognostic model based on genes associated with cuproptosis and ferroptosis. We randomly assigned 502 HSNCC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) into training and testing sets. Pearson correlation analysis was utilized to identify cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes in the training set. Cox proportional hazards (COX) regression and least absolute shrinkage operator (LASSO) were employed to construct the prognostic model. The performance of the prognostic model was internally validated using single-factor COX regression, multifactor COX regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis. Additionally, we obtained 97 samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for external validation. The constructed model, based on 12 cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes, proved to be an independent predictor of HNSCC prognosis. Among these genes, the increased expression of aurora kinase A (AURKA) has been implicated in various cancers. To further investigate, we employed small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to knock down AURKA expression and conducted functional experiments. The results demonstrated that AURKA knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HNSCC cells (Cal27 and CNE2). Therefore, AURKA may serve as a potential biomarker in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law University, Beijing 100088, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Jiao Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yueyue Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yiqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Mengzhou Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law University, Beijing 100088, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yijin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300000, China; (X.J.); (J.T.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.); (Y.Y.)
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Sheng N, Fu R, Zhou C, Li Y, Fan Y, Wang J, Nan X. SOX9 promotes stemness in the CAL27 cell line of tongue squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4000. [PMID: 38566395 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is a prevalent form of oral malignancy, with increasing incidence. Unfortunately, the 5-year survival rate for patients has not exceeded 50%. Studies have shown that sex-determining region Y box 9 (SOX9) correlates with malignancy and tumor stemness in a variety of tumors. To investigate the role of SOX9 in TSCC stemness, we analyzed its influence on various aspects of tumor biology, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, sphere and clone formation, and drug resistance in TSCC. Our data suggest a close association between SOX9 expression and both the stemness phenotype and drug resistance in TSCC. Immunohistochemical experiments revealed a progressive increase of SOX9 expression in normal oral mucosa, paracancerous tissues, and tongue squamous carcinoma tissues. Furthermore, the expression of SOX9 was closely linked to the TNM stage, but not to lymph node metastasis or tumor diameter. SOX9 is a crucial gene in TSCC responsible for promoting the stemness function of cancer stem cells. Developing drugs that target SOX9 is extremely important in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanning Sheng
- Faculty of Stomatology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Cancer, Taiyuan, China
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Taiyuan, China
| | - Rong Fu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chuhuan Zhou
- Faculty of Stomatology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Cancer, Taiyuan, China
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yawei Fan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Faculty of Stomatology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Prosthodontics, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xinrong Nan
- Faculty of Stomatology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Shao J, Xiong B, Lei D, Chen X. Unveiling NRlncRNAs as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma through machine learning. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:2439-2451. [PMID: 38205899 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients often exhibit insensitivity to immunotherapy, leading to treatment failure. Identifying potential biomarkers that can predict prognosis and improve the efficacy of treatment is crucial. In this study, we aimed to identify necroptosis-related long noncoding RNAs (NRlncRNAs) as potential therapeutic targets to improve the prognosis of HNSCC patients. By exploring the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project (GTEx) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, we identified NRlncRNAs and developed a risk model comprising 17 NRlncRNAs to predict the prognosis of HNSCC patients and to classify patients into two clusters based on their expression levels. We conducted various analyses, such as the Kaplan-Meier analysis, GSEA and IC50 prediction, to evaluate the differences in sensitivity to immunotherapy between the two clusters. Our findings suggest that NRlncRNAs have potential as therapeutic targets for improving the prognosis of HNSCC patients, and that individualized treatment approaches based on NRlncRNA expression levels can improve the sensitivity of immunotherapy and overall treatment outcomes. This study highlights new perspectives within clinical cancer informatics and provides insight into potential therapeutic strategies for HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Shao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bo Xiong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, School of Stomatology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Deru Lei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaojian Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Zhang ZM, Zhao Z, Chen ZX. Impact of Laryngocarcinoma at Different Sites in 16,255 Individuals. EAR, NOSE & THROAT JOURNAL 2024; 103:NP207-NP218. [PMID: 34379550 DOI: 10.1177/01455613211036771] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laryngocarcinoma (LC) is a common malignant tumor of the head and neck, accounting for 1% to 5% of human tumors. The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the survival time of patients with LC at different sites. METHODS Information concerning patients with LC was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 1975 and 2016. RESULTS In total, 16 255 patients with LC were selected from the SEER database. Among all patients, 80.2% were male; males also predominated in each tumor site subgroup. Most of the patients were aged between 60 and 69 years, had white ethnicity, were single, and had American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I cancer with T1, N0, and M0. The present study investigated the role of interventions in all LCs at different AJCC stages. Across the whole population, regardless of the intervention used, survival increased in patients at any cancer site. CONCLUSIONS The study found that male sex, age ≥80 years, black ethnicity, single status, T4, N4, M1, and AJCC stage IV were associated with higher mortality rates at all sites of LC. Aggressive interventions, especially surgery and radiotherapy, may improve survival in patients with LC at different sites and with different AJCC stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hubei NO.3 People's Hospital of Jianghan University, Wuhan 430033, Hubei, China
| | - Zhang Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hubei NO.3 People's Hospital of Jianghan University, Wuhan 430033, Hubei, China
| | - Zhu-Xiang Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hubei NO.3 People's Hospital of Jianghan University, Wuhan 430033, Hubei, China
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Rong M, Zhang M, Dong F, Wu K, Cai B, Niu J, Yang L, Li Z, Lu HY. LncRNA RASAL2-AS1 promotes METTL14-mediated m6A methylation in the proliferation and progression of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:113. [PMID: 38528591 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03302-8] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulators of the 6-methyladenosine (m6A) epigenetic modification, playing a role in the initiation and progression of tumors. However, the regulatory mechanisms in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the molecular regulatory mechanisms of the lncRNA RASAL2-AS1 in the occurrence and development of HNSCC tumors. METHODS A bioinformatics analysis was conducted to analyze the expression level of RASAL2-AS1 in HNSCC and normal tissues. RASAL2-AS1 mRNA and protein levels were detected using RT-PCR and Western blotting. Wound healing, transwell assays, flow cytometry, M6A dot blot, and RNA immunoprecipitation experiments were conducted to explore the regulatory role of the RASAL2-AS1 and downstream targets METTL14/LIS1 signaling pathway in HNSCC. Immunohistochemical examination was conducted to evaluate the expression of METTL14 and LIS1 in HNSCC and normal tissues. A tumor xenograft model of BALB/c nude mice was established to assess the impact of RASAL2-AS1 on cell proliferation and growth. RESULTS RASAL2-AS1 high expression in HNSCC and cells deteriorated with survival rates of HNSCC. RASAL2-AS1 overexpression in HNSCC accelerated cell migration, colony formation, cell proliferation, cell cycle in S stage, while RASAL2-AS1 knockdown in HNSC cells inhibited cell cycle in G1 stage. After silencing METTL14, the above effects induced by overexpression of the RASAL2-AS1 were reversed. RASAL2-AS1 overexpression prompted LIS1 expression, whereas RASAL2-AS1 silencing reduced LIS1 levels in HNSCC cells, which was confirmed by immunohistological staining. Results demonstrated elevated expression of METTL14 or LIS1 in tongue cancer tissues. Overexpression of RASAL2-AS1 promoted tumor weight and tumor volume, which was counteracted by pcDNA3.1 RASAL2-AS1 plus silencing METTL14 and METTL14 and LIS1 were significantly decreased. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the functional importance of the LncRNA RASAL2-AS1 in HNSCC and might assist in the development of a prognostic stratification and therapeutic approach. Which regulates HNSCC with the dependence of m6a manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiting Rong
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Feihong Dong
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Ke Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Bingkun Cai
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Jinrui Niu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Le Yang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Zhongyan Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Hui-Yi Lu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, #467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China.
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Jin Y, Huang S, Zhou H, Wang Z, Zhou Y. Multi-omics comprehensive analyses of programmed cell death patterns to regulate the immune characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2024; 41:101862. [PMID: 38237211 PMCID: PMC10825548 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101862] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a heterogeneous cancer with high morbidity and mortality. Triggering the programmed cell death (PCD) to enhance the anti-tumor therapies is being applied in multiple cancers. However, the limited understanding of genetic heterogeneity in HNSCC severely hampers the clinical efficacy. We systematically analyzed 14 types of PCD in HNSCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We utilized ssGSEA to calculate the PCD scores and classify patients into two clusters. Subsequently, we displayed the genomic alteration landscape to unravel the significant differences in copy number alterations and gene mutations. Furthermore, we calculated the IC50 values of targeted drugs to predict the differences in sensitivity. To identify the immune-related prognostic types, we comprehensively estimated the relationship between immune indicators and all prognostic PCD in three datasets (TCGA, GSE65858, GSE41613). Finally, 7 regulators were filtered. Subsequently, we integrated 10 machine learning algorithms and 101 algorithm combinations to test the clinical predictive efficacy. Using WGCNA as a basis, we built a weighted co-expression network to identify modules involved in the immune landscape with different colors. Meanwhile, our results indicated that blue and red modules containing crucial regulators closely related to the CD4+, CD8+ T cells, TMB or PD-L1. FCGR2A from blue module, CSF2, INHBA, and THBS1 from the red module were determined. After verifying in vivo experiments, FCGR2A was identified as hub gene. In conclusion, our findings suggest a potential role of PCD in HNSCC, offering new insights into effective immunotherapy and anti-tumor therapies in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.
| | - Siwei Huang
- School of Humanities and Management, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China; Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Zhanwang Wang
- Department of Oncology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.
| | - Yonghong Zhou
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China.
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Young RJ, Angel C, Bressel M, Pizzolla A, Thai AA, Porceddu SV, Liu H, Idrizi R, Metta J, Lim AM, Solomon BJ, Rischin D. Characterising B cell expression and prognostic significance in human papillomavirus positive oropharyngeal cancer. Oral Oncol 2024; 150:106687. [PMID: 38262249 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2024.106687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The incidence of human papillomavirus positive oropharyngeal cancer (HPV+OPC) is increasing, and new biomarkers are required to better define prognostic groups and guide treatment. Infiltrating T cells have been well studied in head and neck cancer, however the presence and role of B cells and tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) in the tumor microenvironment has not, even though the interplay between T and B cells is increasingly being recognised. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using CD20 immunohistochemistry (IHC) to identify B cells and TLS in a cohort of 159 HPV + OPC patients, we semi-quantitatively scored abundance and location (intra-tumoral or stromal) and correlated findings with patient survival. RESULTS 32% (51/157) of patients had high intra-tumoral (IT) abundance of CD20+ B cells (≥5%) and this was prognostic for improved overall survival (OS) with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.2 (95 % CI 0.0-0.7, p = 0.014). We validated our results in an independent cohort comprising 171 HPV + OPC where 14% (23/171) were IT CD20+ high, again showing improved survival with an adjusted HR for OS of 0.2 (95 % CI 0.0-1.4, p = 0.003). Neither stromal abundance nor the presence of TLS were prognostic in either cohort. B cells were subtyped by multispectral IHC, identifying CD20+CD27+ cells, consistent with memory B cells, as the predominant subtype. Combined with validated biomarker CD103, a marker of tissue-resident memory T cells, IT CD20+ B cells abundance was able to prognostically stratify patients further. CONCLUSIONS CD20+ B cell abundance has the potential to be used as a biomarker to identify good and poor prognosis HPV + OPC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Young
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher Angel
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mathias Bressel
- Centre for Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Angela Pizzolla
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alesha A Thai
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sandro V Porceddu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Howard Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rejhan Idrizi
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Advanced Histology and Microscopy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jana Metta
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Advanced Histology and Microscopy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Annette M Lim
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Solomon
- Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Danny Rischin
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
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Hu X, Dong Y, Xie S, Song Y, Yu C, He Y, Wang Z, Hu Q, Ni Y, Ding L. Immune checkpoint CD161/LLT1-associated immunological landscape and diagnostic value in oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Pathol Clin Res 2024; 10:e353. [PMID: 38502058 PMCID: PMC10792702 DOI: 10.1002/cjp2.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
An active host adaptive response is characterized by the existence of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)+ /IFN-γ+ cytotoxic T cells and IFN-γ-induced PD-L1+ tumor cells (TCs), which predicts high response rate to anti-PD-1/L1 therapy. Recently, CD161 and its ligand LLT1 (CLEC2D) have been identified as an emerging checkpoint for immunotherapy. Clarifying its heterogeneous clinical expression pattern and its immune landscape is a prerequisite for maximizing the response rate of CD161 blockade therapy in a specific population of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Here, we investigated the expression pattern of CD161/LLT1 and its association with major immunocytes (T cells, B cells, NK cells, and macrophages) by multiplex immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry in 109 OSCC tissues and 102 peripheral blood samples. TCs showed higher LLT1 levels than tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), whereas CD161 was highly expressed in CD8+ T cells at the tumor front, which was decreased in paracancerous tissue. High expression of TC-derived LLT1 (LLT1TC ) conferred poor clinical outcomes, whereas higher CD161+ and LLT1+ TILs were associated with better prognosis. Meanwhile, patients with high LLT1TC showed a decreased ratio of CD8+ /Foxp3+ T cells in situ, but CD161+ TILs correlated with more peripheral CD3+ T cells. Interestingly, treatment of OSCC patients with nivolumab (anti-PD-1) could restore tumoral CD161/LLT1 signal. Furthermore, an OSCC subgroup characterized by high LLT1+ TCs and low CD161+ CD8+ T cells showed fewer peripheral T cells and a higher risk of lymph node metastasis, leading to a shorter 5-year survival time (29%). More LLT1TC at the invasive front was another risk characteristic of exhausted T cells. In conclusion, in view of this heterogeneity, the LLT1/CD161 distribution pattern should be determined before CD161-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Hu
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Yuexin Dong
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Shixin Xie
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Yuxian Song
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Chenhang Yu
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Yijia He
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Zhiyong Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Qingang Hu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Yanhong Ni
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
| | - Liang Ding
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingPR China
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Meci A, Goyal N, Slonimsky G. Mechanisms of Resistance and Therapeutic Perspectives in Immunotherapy for Advanced Head and Neck Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:703. [PMID: 38398094 PMCID: PMC10887076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040703] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is emerging as an effective treatment for advanced head and neck cancers and interest in this treatment modality has led to rapid expansion of this research. Pembrolizumab and nivolumab, monoclonal antibodies directed against the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) receptor, are US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- and European Medical Agency (EMA)-approved immunotherapies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Resistance to immunotherapy is common, with about 60% of patients with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC not responding to immunotherapy and only 20-30% of patients without disease progression in the long term. Overcoming resistance to immunotherapy is therefore essential for augmenting the effectiveness of immunotherapy in HNSCC. This review details the innate and adaptive mechanisms by which head and neck cancers can become resistant to immunotherapeutic agents, biomarkers that can be used for immunotherapy patient selection, as well as other factors of the tumor microenvironment correlated with therapeutic response and prognosis. Numerous combinations and novel immunotherapies are currently being trialed, based on better understood immune evasion mechanisms. These potential treatments hold the promise of overcoming resistance to immunotherapy in head and neck cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Meci
- The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Neerav Goyal
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Penn State Health, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
| | - Guy Slonimsky
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Penn State Health, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, USA;
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Ma P, He M, Lian H, Li J, Gao Y, Wu J, Men K, Men Y, Li C. Systemic and Local Administration of a Dual-siRNA Complex Efficiently Inhibits Tumor Growth and Bone Invasion in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:661-676. [PMID: 38175819 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00802] [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: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for nearly 90% of oral and oropharyngeal cancer cases and is characterized by high mortality and poor prognosis. RNA-based gene therapies have been developed as an emerging option for cancer treatment, but it has not been widely explored in OSCC. In this work, we developed an efficient siRNA cationic micelle DOTAP-mPEG-PCL (DMP) by self-assembling the cationic lipid DOTAP and monomethoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) (mPEG-PCL) polymer. We tested the characteristics and transformation efficiency of this micelle and combined DMP with siRNA targeting STAT3 and TGF-β to evaluate the antitumor effect and bone invasion interfering in vitro and in vivo. The average size of the DMP was 28.27 ± 1.62 nm with an average zeta potential of 54.60 ± 0.29 mV. The DMP/siRNA complex showed high delivery efficiency, with rates of 97.47 ± 0.42% for HSC-3. In vitro, the DMP/siSTAT3 complex exhibited an obvious cell growth inhibition effect detected by MTT assay (an average cell viability of 25.1%) and clonogenic assay (an average inhibition rate of 51.9%). Besides, the supernatant from HSC-3 transfected by DMP/siTGF-β complexes was found to interfere with osteoclast differentiation in vitro. Irrespective of local or systemic administration, DMP/siSTAT3+siTGF-β showed antitumor effects and bone invasion inhibition in the OSCC mice mandibular invasion model according to tumor volume assays and Micro-CT scanning. The complex constructed by DMP cationic micelles and siSTAT3+siTGF-β represents a potential RNA-based gene therapy delivery system for OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingchuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan China
| | - Mingxia He
- Joint National Laboratory for Antibody Drug Engineering, School of Medicine, Henan University, 475004 Kaifeng, China
| | - Haosen Lian
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan China
| | - Jingmei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province China
| | - Yan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province China
| | - Jieping Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province China
| | - Ke Men
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province China
| | - Yi Men
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan China
| | - Chunjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan China
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Liu S, Wang R, Fang J. Exploring the frontiers: tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:22. [PMID: 38294629 PMCID: PMC10830966 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-00870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of head and neck malignancies positions them as the sixth most common form of cancer, with the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) representing the predominant histological subtype. Despite advancements in multidisciplinary approaches and molecular targeted therapies, the therapeutic outcomes for HNSCC have only marginally improved, particularly in cases of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC (R/MHNSCC). This situation underscores the critical necessity for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Such strategies are essential not only to enhance the efficacy of HNSCC treatment but also to minimize the incidence of associated complications, thus improving overall patient prognosis. Cancer immunotherapy represents a cutting-edge cancer treatment that leverages the immune system for targeting and destroying cancer cells. It's applied to multiple cancers, including melanoma and lung cancer, offering precision, adaptability, and the potential for long-lasting remission through immune memory. It is observed that while HNSCC patients responsive to immunotherapy often experience prolonged therapeutic benefits, only a limited subset demonstrates such responsiveness. Additionally, significant clinical challenges remain, including the development of resistance to immunotherapy. The biological characteristics, dynamic inhibitory changes, and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HNSCC play critical roles in its pathogenesis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. This review aims to elucidate the functions and mechanisms of anti-tumor immune cells and extracellular components within the HNSCC TME. It also introduces several immunosuppressive agents commonly utilized in HNSCC immunotherapy, examines factors influencing the effectiveness of these treatments, and provides a comprehensive summary of immunotherapeutic strategies relevant to HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokun Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ru Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Jugao Fang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Yao S, Xiao H, Wei C, Chen S. ANKRD2 expression combined with TNFRSF19 expression for evaluating the prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma patients. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24091. [PMID: 38234906 PMCID: PMC10792581 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24091] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective As an important chemotherapy drug, cisplatin has been widely used in the treatment of many cancers. However, many patients, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients, experience unacceptable outcomes from cisplatin treatment. Thus, we devised a risk model for predicting the sensitivity of OSCC patients to cisplatin treatment, to provide a reference for clinical practice. Methods CAL-27 and SCC-9 cell lines treated or not with cisplatin and data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were screened for simultaneously and significantly differentially expressed genes. Next, we built a risk model for predicting cisplatin sensitivity in OSCC patients. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), pathological samples and clinical data were used to examine the reliability of the model. Results ANKRD2 and TNFRSF19 were differentially expressed between the OSCC metastasis cell line HSC-3 treated and not treated with cisplatin, as well as between the OSCC cell line SCC-25 and the cell line SCC25-DDP, which has cisplatin chemoresistance. We found that the expression of ANKRD2 and TNFRSF19 had a significant influence on the prognosis of OSCC patients. The risk model that combined ANKRD2 and TNFRSF19 to predict sensitivity to cisplatin in OSCC patients was confirmed by analysing the pathological samples and follow-up information of clinical patients. Conclusions The expression of ANKRD2 and TNFRSF19 is associated with cisplatin sensitivity and prognosis in patients with OSCC. The survival outcome of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) was found to be significantly worse in those with high expression of ANKRD2 combined with low expression of TNFRSF19. ANKRD2 and TNFRSF19 may be targets for cisplatin sensitivity prediction in OSCC patients. These findings may provide novel strategies for overcoming cisplatin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shucong Yao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongwei Xiao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Changji Wei
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shisheng Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
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Minafò YA, Antonini D, Dellambra E. NAD+ Metabolism-Related Gene Profile Can Be a Relevant Source of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Biomarkers. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:309. [PMID: 38254798 PMCID: PMC10814490 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020309] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Poor survival rates of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are associated with high recurrence, metastasis, and late diagnosis, due in part to a limited number of reliable biomarkers. Thus, the identification of signatures improving the diagnosis of different SCC types is mandatory. Considering the relevant role of NAD+ metabolism in SCC chemoprevention and therapy, the study aimed at identifying new biomarkers based on NAD+ metabolism-related gene (NMRG) expression. Gene expression of 18 NMRGs and clinical-pathological information for patients with head and neck SCC (HNSCC), lung SCC (LuSCC), and cervix SCC (CeSCC) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were analyzed by several bioinformatic tools. We identified a 16-NMRG profile discriminating 3 SCCs from 3 non-correlated tumors. We found several genes for HNSCC, LuSCC, and CeSCC with high diagnostic power. Notably, three NMRGs were SCC-type specific biomarkers. Furthermore, specific signatures displayed high diagnostic power for several clinical-pathological characteristics. Analyzing tumor-infiltrating immune cell profiles and PD-1/PD-L1 levels, we found that NMRG expression was associated with suppressive immune microenvironment mainly in HNSCC. Finally, the evaluation of patient survival identified specific genes for HNSCC, LuSCC, and CeSCC with potential prognostic power. Therefore, our analyses indicate NAD+ metabolism as an important source of SCC biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ylenia Aura Minafò
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Fondazione Luigi Maria Monti, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta, 104, 00167 Rome, Italy
| | - Dario Antonini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Dellambra
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Fondazione Luigi Maria Monti, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta, 104, 00167 Rome, Italy
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Liu DX, Wu KH, Zang XY, Lu JY, Liu MY, Li CM, Gao L. Dickkopf-related protein 1 as a biomarker of local immune status and worse prognosis of Oral squamous cell carcinoma. Technol Health Care 2024; 32:1473-1488. [PMID: 38073341 DOI: 10.3233/thc-230527] [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: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an infiltrative malignancy characterized by a significantly elevated recurrence rate. Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1), which plays an oncogene role in many cancers, acts as an inhibitor of the Wingless protein (Wnt) signaling pathway. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding the role of DKK1 in OSCC or its clinical significance. OBJECTIVE To examine the role and effect of DKK1 in OSCC. METHODS The identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in OSCC was conducted by utilizing databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). A comprehensive analysis of gene expression profile interactions (GEPIA) and Kaplan-Meier curve were conducted to investigate the associations among DEGs, patient survival and prognosis in individuals with OSCC. The biological function of DKK1 in OSCC was investigated by using molecular biology approaches. RESULTS The expression of DKK1 was found to be upregulated in OSCC tissues at various stages. High levels of DKK1 expression exhibited a positive correlation with the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates among OSCC patients. DKK1 knockdown suppressed the proliferation and induced apoptotic response in OSCC cells. Moreover, DKK1 exerted a positive regulatory effect on HMGA2 expression, thereby modulating cell growth and apoptosis in OSCC. The expression of DKK1 was found to be positively correlated with the infiltration of immune cells in patients with OSCC. Additionally, higher levels of CD4 + T cells were associated with improved 5-year survival rates. CONCLUSION DKK1 is a prognostic biomarker for patients with OSCC.
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Cai F, Xu H, Song S, Wang G, Zhang Y, Qian J, Xu L. Knockdown of Ubiquitin-Conjugating Enzyme E2 T Abolishes the Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Inhibiting NF-Κb Signaling and inducing Ferroptosis. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2024; 25:577-585. [PMID: 38584528 DOI: 10.2174/0113892037287640240322084946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2T (UBE2T) has been reported to be associated with uncontrolled cell growth and tumorigenesis in multiple cancer types. However, the understanding of its regulatory role in the carcinogenesis of Head And Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSC) is limited. METHODS UBE2T expression in HNSC patient samples and the correlation between its expression and patients' survival rates were evaluated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Cell survival and proliferation were investigated in UM-SCC1 and UM-SCC15 cells infected with control and shUBE2T lentivirus. The xenograft mouse model was established using UM-SCC15 cells to examine HNSC tumorigenesis with or without UBE2T. Western blot, qRT-PCR, and ferroptosis assays were carried out to disclose the interaction between UBE2T and NF-κB signaling and ferroptosis. RESULTS The increased expression of UBE2T was noted in tumor tissues of patients with HNSC, correlating with a significantly reduced overall survival time in this patient cohort. Knockdown of UBE2T inhibited HNSC tumorigenesis and tumor growth. Mechanistically, inhibition of UBE2T suppressed NF-κB signaling and induced ferroptosis in HNSC. CONCLUSION Our study underscores the multifaceted role of UBE2T in HNSC, illuminating its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Hongbo Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Shilong Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Gengming Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Yajun Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Qian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Zhihuai Road, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
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Zhu Y, Peng B, Luo X, Sun W, Liu D, Li N, Qiu P, Long G. High-Resolution Profiling of Head and Neck Squamous Cells Carcinoma Identifies Specific Biomarkers and Expression Subtypes of Clinically Relevant Vulnerabilities. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2431-2448. [PMID: 37936459 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673276128231031112655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is the seventh most common cancer worldwide. Although there are several options for the treatment of HNSC, there is still a lack of better biomarkers to accurately predict the response to treatment and thus be more able to correctly treat the therapeutic modality. METHODS First, we typed cases from the TCGA-HNSC cohort into subtypes by a Bayesian non-negative matrix factorization (BayesNMF)-based consensus clustering approach. Subsequently, genomic and proteomic data from HNSC cell lines were integrated to identify biomarkers of response to targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, associations between HNSC subtypes and CD8 T-cell-associated effector molecules, common immune checkpoint genes, were compared to assess the potential of HNSC subtypes as clinically predictive immune checkpoint blockade therapy. RESULTS The 500 HNSC cases from TCGA were put through a consensus clustering approach to identify six HNSC expression subtypes. In addition, subtypes with unique proteomics and dependency profiles were defined based on HNSC cell line histology and proteomics data. Subtype 4 (S4) exhibits hyperproliferative and hyperimmune properties, and S4-associated cell lines show specific vulnerability to ADAT2, EIF5AL1, and PAK2. PD-L1 and CASP1 inhibitors have therapeutic potential in S4, and we have also demonstrated that S4 is more responsive to immune checkpoint blockade therapy. CONCLUSION Overall, our HNSC typing approach identified robust tumor-expressing subtypes, and data from multiple screens also revealed subtype-specific biology and vulnerabilities. These HNSC expression subtypes and their biomarkers will help develop more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bi Peng
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Luo
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dongbo Liu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Medical, Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, Shenzhen, 518038, China
| | - Ping Qiu
- Department of Medical, Shenzhen Engineering Center for Translational Medicine of Precision Cancer Immunodiagnosis and Therapy, Shenzhen, 518038, China
| | - Guoxian Long
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
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Li Z, Zheng C, Liu H, Lv J, Wang Y, Zhang K, Kong S, Chen F, Kong Y, Yang X, Cheng Y, Yang Z, Zhang C, Tian Y. A novel oxidative stress-related gene signature as an indicator of prognosis and immunotherapy responses in HNSCC. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:14957-14984. [PMID: 38157249 PMCID: PMC10781479 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205323] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify molecular subtypes of oxidative stress-related genes in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and to construct a scoring model of oxidative stress-related genes. METHODS R language based scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq analyses were used to identify molecular isoforms of oxidative stress-related genes in HNSCC. An oxidative stress-related gene scoring (OSRS) model was constructed, which were verified through online data and immunohistochemical staining of clinical samples. RESULTS Using TCGA-HNSCC datasets, nine predictive genes for overall patient survival, rarely reported in previous similar studies, were screened. AREG and CES1 were identified as prognostic risk factors. CSTA, FDCSP, JCHAIN, IFFO2, PGLYRP4, SPOCK2 and SPINK6 were identified as prognostic factors. Collectively, all genes formed a prognostic risk signature model for oxidative stress in HNSCC, which were validated in GSE41613, GSE103322 and PRJEB23709 datasets. Immunohistochemical staining of SPINK6 in nasopharyngeal cancer samples validated the gene panel. Subsequent analysis indicated that subgroups of the oxidative stress prognostic signature played important roles during cellular communication, the immune microenvironment, the differential activation of transcription factors, oxidative stress and immunotherapeutic responses. CONCLUSIONS The risk model might predict HNSCC prognosis and immunotherapeutic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoqi Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
- Radiotherapy Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
| | - Chunning Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Hongtao Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Jiling Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Generalsurgery Department, Wenshang County People’s Hospital, Wenshang, Shandong 272500, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Kong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, P.R. China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong 250117, P.R. China
| | - Yongmei Kong
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
- Radiotherapy Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
| | - Xiaowei Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Intervention, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, P.R. China
| | - Yuxia Cheng
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Zhensong Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250033, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
- Radiotherapy Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250299, P.R. China
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Miller ZA, Mueller A, Kim T, Jolivert JF, Ma RZ, Muthuswami S, Park A, McMahon DB, Nead KT, Carey RM, Lee RJ. Lidocaine induces apoptosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through activation of bitter taste receptor T2R14. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113437. [PMID: 37995679 PMCID: PMC10842818 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) have high mortality and significant treatment-related morbidity. It is vital to discover effective, minimally invasive therapies that improve survival and quality of life. Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are expressed in HNSCCs, and T2R activation can induce apoptosis. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that also activates bitter taste receptor 14 (T2R14). Lidocaine has some anti-cancer effects, but the mechanisms are unclear. Here, we find that lidocaine causes intracellular Ca2+ mobilization through activation of T2R14 in HNSCC cells. T2R14 activation with lidocaine depolarizes mitochondria, inhibits proliferation, and induces apoptosis. Concomitant with mitochondrial Ca2+ influx, ROS production causes T2R14-dependent accumulation of poly-ubiquitinated proteins, suggesting that proteasome inhibition contributes to T2R14-induced apoptosis. Lidocaine may have therapeutic potential in HNSCCs as a topical gel or intratumor injection. In addition, we find that HPV-associated (HPV+) HNSCCs are associated with increased TAS2R14 expression. Lidocaine treatment may benefit these patients, warranting future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoey A Miller
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Pharmacology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Arielle Mueller
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - TaeBeom Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer F Jolivert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ray Z Ma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sahil Muthuswami
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - April Park
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Derek B McMahon
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kevin T Nead
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ryan M Carey
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Robert J Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Katase N, Nishimatsu SI, Yamauchi A, Okano S, Fujita S. DKK3 expression is correlated with poorer prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A bioinformatics study based on the TCGA database. J Oral Biosci 2023; 65:334-346. [PMID: 37716425 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2023.09.002] [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] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We previously reported that dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3 (DKK3) expression is correlated with poorer prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Here we investigated DKK3 expression by using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) public database and bioinformatic analyses. METHODS We used the RNA sequence data and divided the tumor samples into "DKK3-high" and "DKK3-low" groups according to median DKK3 expression. The correlations between DKK3 expression and the clinical data were investigated. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected using DESEq2 and analyzed by ShinyGO 0.77. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was also performed using GSEA software. The DEGs were also analyzed with TargetMine to establish the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. RESULTS DKK3 expression was significantly increased in cancer samples, and a high DKK3 expression was significantly associated with shorter overall survival. We identified 854 DEGs, including 284 up-regulated and 570 down-regulated. Functional enrichment analyses revealed several Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways associated with extracellular matrix remodeling. The PPI network identified COL8A1, AGTR1, FN1, P4HA3, PDGFRB, and CEP126 as the key genes. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested the cancer-promoting ability of DKK3, the expression of which is a promising prognostic marker and therapeutic target for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Katase
- Department of Oral Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Sakamoto 1-7-1, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan.
| | - Shin-Ichiro Nishimatsu
- Department of Natural Sciences, Kawasaki Medical School, Matsushima 577, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan.
| | - Akira Yamauchi
- Department of Biochemistry, Kawasaki Medical School, Matsushima 577, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan.
| | - Shinji Okano
- Department of Pathology, Nagasaki University Hospital, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan; Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan.
| | - Shuichi Fujita
- Department of Oral Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Sakamoto 1-7-1, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan.
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Shi E, Shan T, Wang H, Mao L, Liang Y, Cao M, Wu Q, Li C, Wang Y, Wang Y. A Bacterial Nanomedicine Combines Photodynamic-Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy for Enhanced Treatment of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2304014. [PMID: 37653616 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial therapy is an emerging hotspot in tumor immunotherapy, which can initiate antitumor immune activation through multiple mechanisms. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), a pathogenic bacterium inhabiting the oral cavity, contains a great deal of pathogen associated molecular patterns that can activate various innate immune cells to promote antitumor immunity. Owing to the presence of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), Pg is also an excellent photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) via the in situ generation of reactive oxygen species. This study reports a bacterial nanomedicine (nmPg) fabricated from Pg through lysozyme degradation, ammonium chloride lysis, and nanoextrusion, which has potent PDT and immune activation performances for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) treatment. To further promote the tumoricidal efficacy, a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX) is efficiently encapsulated into nmPg through a simple incubation method. nmPg/DOX thus prepared exhibits significant synergistic effects on inhibiting the growth and metastasis of OSCC both in vitro and in vivo via photodynamic-immunotherapy and chemotherapy. In summary, this work develops a promising bacterial nanomedicine for enhanced treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enyu Shi
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Tianhe Shan
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Hanping Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Lujia Mao
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yanjie Liang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Mingxin Cao
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Qiqi Wu
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Changyi Li
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yue Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yinsong Wang
- School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics (Theranostics), School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
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Zohud O, Lone IM, Nashef A, Iraqi FA. Towards system genetics analysis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using the mouse model, cellular platform, and clinical human data. Animal Model Exp Med 2023; 6:537-558. [PMID: 38129938 PMCID: PMC10757216 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) is a leading global malignancy. Every year, More than 830 000 people are diagnosed with HNSCC globally, with more than 430 000 fatalities. HNSCC is a deadly diverse malignancy with many tumor locations and biological characteristics. It originates from the squamous epithelium of the oral cavity, oropharynx, nasopharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx. The most frequently impacted regions are the tongue and larynx. Previous investigations have demonstrated the critical role of host genetic susceptibility in the progression of HNSCC. Despite the advances in our knowledge, the improved survival rate of HNSCC patients over the last 40 years has been limited. Failure to identify the molecular origins of development of HNSCC and the genetic basis of the disease and its biological heterogeneity impedes the development of new therapeutic methods. These results indicate a need to identify more genetic factors underlying this complex disease, which can be better used in early detection and prevention strategies. The lack of reliable animal models to investigate the underlying molecular processes is one of the most significant barriers to understanding HNSCC tumors. In this report, we explore and discuss potential research prospects utilizing the Collaborative Cross mouse model and crossing it to mice carrying single or double knockout genes (e.g. Smad4 and P53 genes) to identify genetic factors affecting the development of this complex disease using genome-wide association studies, epigenetics, microRNA, long noncoding RNA, lncRNA, histone modifications, methylation, phosphorylation, and proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osayd Zohud
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of MedicineTel‐Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
| | - Iqbal M. Lone
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of MedicineTel‐Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
| | - Aysar Nashef
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryBaruch Padeh Medical CenterPoriyaIsrael
- Azrieli Faculty of MedicineBar‐Ilan UniversityRamat GanIsrael
| | - Fuad A. Iraqi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of MedicineTel‐Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
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Li T, Tian L, Cao J, Liu M. Cancer-associated fibroblasts secret extracellular vesicles to support cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Probes 2023; 72:101934. [PMID: 37777021 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101934] [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] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
As the critical components of tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) support the development of various type of cancers, including laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), but the detailed molecular mechanisms by which cancer-associated fibroblasts interact with LSCC cells to facilitate its progression have not been fully uncovered. In the present study, by analyzing the contents from normal fibroblasts (NFs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) with Real-Time qPCR analysis, we found that the tumor-initiating LncRNA TUC338 was significantly upregulated in the cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles, compared to the normal fibroblasts-secreted extracellular vesicles. Further experiments confirmed that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles promoted cell proliferation, colony formation abilities, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumorigenesis of LSCC cells via delivering LncRNA TUC338. The mechanical experiments verified that LncRNA TUC338 was stabilized by METTL3/YTHDF1-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications, and elevated LncRNA TUC338 sponged miR-8485 to upregulate chromobox homolog 2 (CBX2) in LSCC cells in a competing endogenous RNA mechanisms-dependent manner. Moreover, our rescue experiments evidenced that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived LncRNA TUC338-containing extracellular vesicles-induced supportive effects in LSCC aggressiveness were all abrogated by overexpressing miR-8485 and silencing CBX2. Collectively, this study is the first to identify a novel m6A/LncRNA TUC338/miR-8485/CBX2 axis in CAFs-EVs-mediated LSCC development, and to show its potential as a diagnostic biomarker for LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Linli Tian
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
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Deng H, Wei Z, Du J, Shen Z, Zhou C. Predicting the prognosis, immune response, and immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using a novel risk model based on anoikis-related lncRNAs. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:548. [PMID: 38017579 PMCID: PMC10683111 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01521-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an extremely heterogeneous and metastatic disease. Anoikis, which is a specific type of programmed apoptosis, is involved in tumor metastasis, tissue homeostasis, and development. Herein, we constructed an anoikis-related long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) signature to predict the prognosis, immune responses, and therapeutic effects in HNSCC patients. METHODS A total of 501 HNSCC samples were acquired from the TCGA database and randomly classified into the training and validation groups (1:1 ratio). Thereafter, the results derived from the training set were analyzed with the LASSO regression analysis, and a novel anoikis-related lncRNA risk model was constructed. Time-dependent ROC curves and Kaplan-Meier analysis were carried out to assess the diagnostic value and survival outcomes. A nomogram was utilized to predict the prognostic accuracy. Furthermore, we studied the tumor microenvironment, tumor mutation burden, enrichment pathways, and the response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. RESULTS Seven anoikis-related lncRNAs (AC015878.1, CYTOR, EMSLR, LINC01503, LINC02084, RAB11B-AS1, Z97200.1) were screened to design a novel risk model, which was recognized as the independent prognostic factor for HNSCC patients. The findings implied that low-risk patients showed significantly longer OS, PFS, and DSS compared to those high-risk patients. The two groups that were classified using the risk model showed significant differences in their immune landscape. The risk model also predicted that low-risk HNSCC patients could attain a better response to immunotherapy, while high-risk patients would be more sensitive to gemcitabine, docetaxel, and cisplatin. CONCLUSIONS We constructed a novel risk model that could be employed for effectively predicting patient prognosis with a good independent prognostic value for HNSCC patients. Furthermore, this model could be used for designing new immunotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic strategies, and it helps clinicians establish personalized and detailed strategies for HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Deng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, NingboZhejiang, 315040, China
| | - Zhengyu Wei
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, NingboZhejiang, 315040, China
| | - Juan Du
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhisen Shen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, NingboZhejiang, 315040, China
| | - Chongchang Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, NingboZhejiang, 315040, China.
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Kozłowska-Masłoń J, Guglas K, Kolenda T, Lamperska K, Makałowska I. miRNA in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas: promising but still distant future of personalized oncology. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2023; 28:681-697. [PMID: 38179293 PMCID: PMC10764040 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.96666] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common and fatal cancers worldwide. Lack of appropriate preventive screening tests, late detection, and high heterogeneity of these tumors are the main reasons for the unsatisfactory effects of therapy and, consequently, unfavorable outcomes for patients. An opportunity to improve the quality of diagnostics and treatment of this group of cancers are microRNAs (miRNAs) - molecules with a great potential both as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review aims to present the characteristics of these short non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and summarize the current reports on their use in oncology focused on medical strategies tailored to patients' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kozłowska-Masłoń
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater oland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
- Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Kacper Guglas
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater oland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kolenda
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater oland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
- Research and Implementation Unit, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Lamperska
- Laboratory of Cancer Genetics, Greater oland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
- Research and Implementation Unit, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Izabela Makałowska
- Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
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50
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Luo J, Huang Y, Wu J, Dai L, Dong M, Cheng B. A novel hypoxia-associated gene signature for prognosis prediction in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:864. [PMID: 37964257 PMCID: PMC10647095 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the most common malignant tumor of head and neck, which seriously threatens human life and health. However, the mechanism of hypoxia-associated genes (HAGs) in HNSCC remains unelucidated. This study aims to establish a hypoxia-associated gene signature and the nomogram for predicting the prognosis of patients with HNSCC. METHODS Previous literature reports provided a list of HAGs. The TCGA database provided genetic and clinical information on HNSCC patients. First, a hypoxia-associated gene risk model was constructed for predicting overall survival (OS) in HNSCC patients and externally validated in four GEO datasets (GSE27020, GSE41613, GSE42743, and GSE117973). Then, immune status and metabolic pathways were analyzed. A nomogram was constructed and assessed the predictive value. Finally, experimental validation of the core genes was performed by qRT-PCR. RESULTS A HNSCC prognostic model was constructed based on 8 HAGs. This risk model was validated in four external datasets and exhibited high predictive value in various clinical subgroups. Significant differences in immune cell infiltration levels and metabolic pathways were found between high and low risk subgroups. The nomogram was highly accurate for predicting OS in HNSCC patients. CONCLUSIONS The 8 hypoxia-associated gene signature can serve as novel independent prognostic indicators in HNSCC patients. The nomogram combining the risk score and clinical stage enhanced predictive performance in predicting OS compared to the risk model and clinical characteristics alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Luo
- Department of Stomatology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yuejiao Huang
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, No. 98 Chengxiang Road, Youjiang District, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Jiahe Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Dai
- Department of Stomatology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, No. 215 Zhongshan Road, Qiaokou District, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Mingyou Dong
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, No. 98 Chengxiang Road, Youjiang District, Baise, 533000, China.
| | - Bo Cheng
- Department of Stomatology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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