Vimentin and cytokeratin: Good alone, bad together

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is a prevalent invasive neoplasm in the gastrointestinal system with a high degree of malignancy. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms of its recurrence and metastasis remain elusive.Rho GTPase activating protein 4 (ARHGAP4), a member of the small GTPases protein family, may be closely related to tumor metastasis, and its expression is increased in colon cancer. However, the role of ARHGAP4 in colon cancer metastasis is uncertain. This study investigates the impact of ARHGAP4 on the metastasis of colon cancer cells. Our objective is to determine the role of ARHGAP4 in regulating the invasive behavior of colon cancer cells.

METHODS

We downloaded colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and performed differential analysis and survival analysis. By using the CIBERSORT algorithm, we evaluated the proportion of infiltrating immune cells in colon cancer. We further analyzed whether ARHGAP4 is associated with T cell exhaustion. Finally, we investigated the impact of ARHGAP4 knockdown on the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells through in vitro cell experiments. Additionally, we utilized western blotting to assess the expression of protein related to the TGF-β signaling pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

RESULTS

We found that ARHGAP4 is upregulated in colon cancer. Subsequent survival analysis revealed that the high-expression group had significantly lower survival rates compared to the low-expression group. Immune infiltration analysis showed that ARHGAP4 was not only positively correlated with CD8+ T cells, but also positively correlated with T cell exhaustion markers programmed cell death 1 (PDCD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), and lymphocyte activating 3 (LAG-3). In vitro cell experiments, the knockdown of ARHGAP4 inhibited the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Among EMT-related proteins, when ARHGAP4 was knocked down, the expression of E-cadherin was increased, while the expression of N-cadherin and Vimentin was decreased. Meanwhile, the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3, which are associated with the TGF-β/Smad pathway, all decreased.

CONCLUSION

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion. It plays an important role in the progression of colon cancer and may serve as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition associated markers in sarcomatoid transformation of clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of many cancers. Partial EMT (pEMT) could represent a critical step in tumor migration and dissemination. Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (sRCC) is an aggressive form of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) composed of a carcinomatous (sRCC-Ca) and sarcomatous (sRCC-Sa) component. The role of (p)EMT in the progression of RCC to sRCC remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of (p)EMT in RCC and sRCC. Tissue samples from 10 patients with clear cell RCC (ccRCC) and 10 patients with sRCC were selected. The expression of main EMT markers (miR-200 family, miR-205, SNAI1/2, TWIST1/2, ZEB1/2, CDH1/2, VIM) was analyzed by qPCR in ccRCC, sRCC-Ca, and sRCC-Sa and compared to non-neoplastic tissue and between both groups. Expression of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin and ZEB2 was analyzed using immunohistochemistry. miR-200c was downregulated in sRCC-Ca compared to ccRCC, while miR-200a was downregulated in sRCC-Sa compared to ccRCC. CDH1 was downregulated in sRCC-Sa when compared to any other group. ZEB2 was downregulated in ccRCC and sRCC compared to corresponding non-neoplastic kidney. A positive correlation was observed between CDH1 expression and miR-200a/b/c. Our results suggest that full EMT is not present in sRCC. Instead, discreet molecular differences exist between ccRCC, sRCC-Ca, and sRCC-Sa, possibly representing distinct intermediary states undergoing pEMT.

p38 Signaling Mediates Naringin-Induced Osteogenic Differentiation of Porcine Metanephric Mesenchymal Cells

OBJECTIVE

To explore the potential of metanephric mesenchymal cells (MMCs) for osteogenesis and naringin's ability to enhance this process and its molecular mechanism.

METHODS

Porcine MMCs at 70 days of gestation were used as tool cells, cultured in osteogenic induction medium, identified by immunocytochemistry staining. Osteogenic potential of porcine MMCs and naringin's ability to enhance this process was tested by detecting changes in cell viability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteopontin (OPN) and osteocalcin (OCN), and the formation of mineralized nodules, and the application of the p38 signaling pathway inhibitor SB203580 vitiated the osteogenesis-promoting effect of naringin.

RESULTS

Immunocytochemical staining showed that the cells were Vimentin and Six2(+), E-cadherin and CK-18(-). Naringin can activate the p38 signaling pathway to enhance the osteogenesis of porcine MMCs by increasing cell viability, ALP activity, the expressions of Runx2, OPN and OCN, and the formation of mineralized nodules (P<0.05). The application of p38 signaling pathway inhibitor SB203580 vitiated the osteogenesis-promoting effect of naringin, manifested by decreased ALP activity, the expressions of Runx2, OPN and OCN, and the formation of mineralized nodules (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Naringin, the active ingredient of Chinese herbal medicine Rhizoma Drynariae for nourishing Shen (Kidney) and strengthening bone, enhances the osteogenic differentiation of renal MMCs through the p38 signaling pathway.

Development and dysfunction of structural cells in eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a disorder characterized by dysfunction and chronic local inflammation of the esophagus. The incidence and prevalence of EoE are increasing worldwide. The mechanisms responsible are poorly understood, and effective treatment options are limited. From the lumen outward, the esophagus comprises stratified squamous epithelium, lamina propria, and muscle. The tissue-specific nature of EoE strongly suggests that structural cells in the esophagus are involved in the EoE diathesis. Epithelial basal cell hyperplasia and dilated intercellular spaces are cardinal features of EoE. Some patients with EoE develop lamina propria fibrosis, strictures, or esophageal muscle dysmotility. Clinical symptoms of EoE are only weakly correlated with peak eosinophil count, implying that other cell types contribute to EoE pathogenesis. Epithelial, endothelial, muscle, and fibroblast cells can each initiate inflammation and repair, regulate tissue resident immune cells, recruit peripheral leukocytes, and tailor adaptive immune cell responses. A better understanding of how structural cells maintain tissue homeostasis, respond to cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic stressors, and exacerbate and/or resolve inflammatory responses in the esophagus is needed. This knowledge will facilitate the development of more efficacious treatment strategies for EoE that can restore homeostasis of both hematopoietic and structural elements in the esophagus.

Proteomics-based identification of biomarkers reflecting endogenous and exogenous exposure to the advanced glycation end product precursor methylglyoxal in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells

Methylglyoxal (MGO), a highly reactive precursor of advanced glycation end products, is endogenously produced and prevalent in various food products. This study aimed to characterize protein modifications in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells induced by MGO and identify potential biomarkers for its exposure and toxicity. A shot-gun proteomic analysis was applied to characterize protein modifications in cells incubated with and without exogenous MGO. Seventy-seven proteins were identified as highly susceptible to MGO modification, among which eight, including vimentin and histone H2B type 2-F, showing concentration-dependent modifications by externally added MGO, were defined as biomarkers for exogenous MGO exposure. Remarkably, up to 10 modification sites were identified on vimentin. Myosin light polypeptide 6 emerged as a biomarker for MGO toxicity, with modifications exclusively observed under cytotoxic MGO levels. Additionally, proteins like serine/threonine-protein kinase SIK2 and calcyphosin, exhibiting comparable or even higher modification levels in control compared to exogenous MGO-treated cells, were defined as biomarkers for endogenous exposure. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that motor proteins, cytoskeleton components, and glycolysis proteins were overrepresented among those highly susceptible to MGO modification. These results identify biomarkers for both endogenous and exogenous MGO exposure and provide insights into the cellular effects of endogenously formed versus externally added MGO.

Generation and application of immortalized sheep fetal fibroblast cell line

BACKGROUND

Primary sheep fetal fibroblasts (SFFCs) have emerged as a valuable resource for investigating the molecular and pathogenic mechanisms of orf viruses (ORFV). However, their utilization is considerably restricted due to the exorbitant expenses associated with their isolation and culture, their abbreviated lifespan, and the laborious procedure.

RESULTS

In our investigation, the primary SFFCs were obtained and immortalized by introducing a lentiviral recombinant plasmid containing the large T antigen from simian virus 40 (SV40). The expression of fibronectin and vimentin proteins, activity of SV40 large T antigen, cell proliferation assays, and analysis of programmed cell death revealed that the immortalized large T antigen SFFCs (TSFFCs) maintained the same physiological characteristics and biological functions as the primary SFFCs. Moreover, TSFFCs demonstrated robust resistance to apoptosis, extended lifespan, and enhanced proliferative activity compared to primary SFFCs. Notably, the primary SFFCs did not undergo in vitro transformation or exhibit any indications of malignancy in nude mice. Furthermore, the immortalized TSFFCs displayed live ORFV vaccine susceptibility.

CONCLUSIONS

Immortalized TSFFCs present valuable in vitro models for exploring the characteristics of ORFV using various techniques. This indicates their potential for secure utilization in future studies involving virus isolation, vaccine development, and drug screening.

Evidence of promoting effects of 6:2 Cl-PFESA on hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation in humans: An ideal alternative for PFOS in terms of environmental health?

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are synthetic chemicals, encompassing compounds like perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), which have widespread applications across various industries, including food packaging and firefighting. In recent years, China has increasingly employed 6:2 Cl-PFESA as an alternative to PFOS. Although the association between PFAS exposure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been demonstrated, the underlying mechanisms that promote HCC proliferation are uncleared. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects and differences of PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFESA on HCC proliferation through in vivo and in vitro tumor models. Our results reveal that both PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFESA significantly contribute to HCC proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Exposure led to reduced population doubling times, enlarged cell colony sizes, enhanced DNA synthesis efficiency, and a higher proportion of cells undergoing mitosis. Furthermore, both PFOS and 6:2 Cl-PFES) have been shown to activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and inhibit necroptosis. This action consequently enhances the proliferation of HCC cells. Our phenotypic assay findings suggest that the tumorigenic potential of 6:2 Cl-PFESA surpasses that of PFOS; in a subcutaneous tumor model using nude mice, the mean tumor weight for the 6:2 Cl-PFESA-treated cohort was 2.33 times that observed in the PFOS cohort (p < 0.01). Despite 6:2 Cl-PFESA being considered a safer substitute for PFOS, the pronounced effects of this chemical on HCC cell growth warrant a thorough assessment of hepatotoxicity risks linked to its usage.

Cytoskeletal crosstalk: A focus on intermediate filaments

The cytoskeleton, comprising actin microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments, is crucial for cell motility and tissue integrity. While prior studies largely focused on individual cytoskeletal networks, recent research underscores the interconnected nature of these systems in fundamental cellular functions like adhesion, migration, and division. Understanding the coordination of these distinct networks in both time and space is essential. This review synthesizes current findings on the intricate interplay between these networks, emphasizing the pivotal role of intermediate filaments. Notably, these filaments engage in extensive crosstalk with microfilaments and microtubules through direct molecular interactions, cytoskeletal linkers, and molecular motors that form molecular bridges, as well as via more complex regulation of intracellular signaling.

Targeting vimentin: a multifaceted approach to combatting cancer metastasis and drug resistance

This comprehensive review explores vimentin as a pivotal therapeutic target in cancer treatment, with a primary focus on mitigating metastasis and overcoming drug resistance. Vimentin, a key player in cancer progression, is intricately involved in processes such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance mechanisms to standard cancer therapies. The review delves into diverse vimentin inhibition strategies. Precision tools, including antibodies and nanobodies, selectively neutralize vimentin's pro-tumorigenic effects. DNA and RNA aptamers disrupt vimentin-associated signaling pathways through their adaptable binding properties. Innovative approaches, such as vimentin-targeted vaccines and microRNAs (miRNAs), harness the immune system and post-transcriptional regulation to combat vimentin-expressing cancer cells. By dissecting vimentin inhibition strategies across these categories, this review provides a comprehensive overview of anti-vimentin therapeutics in cancer treatment. It underscores the growing recognition of vimentin as a pivotal therapeutic target in cancer and presents a diverse array of inhibitors, including antibodies, nanobodies, DNA and RNA aptamers, vaccines, and miRNAs. These multifaceted approaches hold substantial promise for tackling metastasis and overcoming drug resistance, collectively presenting new avenues for enhanced cancer therapy.

KIF4A promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition by activating the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway in glioma cells

Gliomas are the most prevalent type of primary brain tumor, with poor prognosis reported in patients with high-grade glioma. Kinesin family member 4 A (KIF4A) stimulates the proliferation, migration, and invasion of tumor cells. However, its function in gliomas has not been clearly established. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of KIF4A on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and invasion of glioma cells. We searched The Cancer Genome Atlas and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas databases to identify KIF4A-related signaling pathways and downstream genes. We further validated them using western blotting, transwell migration and invasion, wound-healing scratch, and dual-luciferase reporter assays in U251 and U87 human glioblastoma cells. Our analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas data showed elevated KIF4A expression in patients with gliomas and was associated with clinical grade. Here, KIF4A overexpression promoted the migration, invasion, and proliferation of glioma cells, whereas KIF4A knockdown showed contrasting results. Gene Ontology (GO) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analyses demonstrated that KIF4A positively controls TGF-β/SMAD signaling in glioma cells. Additionally, genetic correlation analysis revealed that KIF4A transcriptionally controls benzimidazoles-1 expression in glioma cells. KIF4A promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition by regulating the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway via benzimidazoles-1 in glioma cells.

Sulforaphane Inhibits Adhesion and Migration of Cisplatin- and Gemcitabine-Resistant Bladder Cancer Cells In Vitro

Only 20% of patients with muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma respond to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Since the natural phytochemical sulforaphane (SFN) exhibits antitumor properties, its influence on the adhesive and migratory properties of cisplatin- and gemcitabine-sensitive and cisplatin- and gemcitabine-resistant RT4, RT112, T24, and TCCSUP bladder cancer cells was evaluated. Mechanisms behind the SFN influence were explored by assessing levels of the integrin adhesion receptors β1 (total and activated) and β4 and their functional relevance. To evaluate cell differentiation processes, E- and N-cadherin, vimentin and cytokeratin (CK) 8/18 expression were examined. SFN down-regulated bladder cancer cell adhesion with cell line and resistance-specific differences. Different responses to SFN were reflected in integrin expression that depended on the cell line and presence of resistance. Chemotactic movement of RT112, T24, and TCCSUP (RT4 did not migrate) was markedly blocked by SFN in both chemo-sensitive and chemo-resistant cells. Integrin-blocking studies indicated β1 and β4 as chemotaxis regulators. N-cadherin was diminished by SFN, particularly in sensitive and resistant T24 and RT112 cells, whereas E-cadherin was increased in RT112 cells (not detectable in RT4 and TCCSup cells). Alterations in vimentin and CK8/18 were also apparent, though not the same in all cell lines. SFN exposure resulted in translocation of E-cadherin (RT112), N-cadherin (RT112, T24), and vimentin (T24). SFN down-regulated adhesion and migration in chemo-sensitive and chemo-resistant bladder cancer cells by acting on integrin β1 and β4 expression and inducing the mesenchymal-epithelial translocation of cadherins and vimentin. SFN does, therefore, possess potential to improve bladder cancer therapy.

A tumor suppressor protein encoded by circKEAP1 inhibits osteosarcoma cell stemness and metastasis by promoting vimentin proteasome degradation and activating anti-tumor immunity

BACKGROUND

Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of most commonly diagnosed bone cancer. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of highly stable non-coding RNA, the majority of which have not been characterized functionally. The underlying function and molecular mechanisms of circRNAs in OS have not been fully demonstrated.

METHOD

Microarray analysis was performed to identify circRNAs that are differentially-expressed between OS and corresponding normal tissues. The biological function of circKEAP1 was confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Mass spectrometry and western blot assays were used to identify the circKEAP1-encoded protein KEAP1-259aa. The molecular mechanism of circKEAP1 was investigated by RNA sequencing and RNA immunoprecipitation analyses.

RESULTS

Here, we identified a tumor suppressor circKEAP1, originating from the back-splicing of exon2 of the KEAP1 gene. Clinically, circKEAP1 is downregulated in OS tumors and associated with better survival in cancer patients. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) at a specific adenosine leads to low expression of circKEAP1. Further analysis revealed that circKEAP1 contained a 777 nt long ORF and encoded a truncated protein KEAP1-259aa that reduces cell proliferation, invasion and tumorsphere formation of OS cells. Mechanistically, KEAP1-259aa bound to vimentin in the cytoplasm to promote vimentin proteasome degradation by interacting with the E3 ligase ARIH1. Moreover, circKEAP1 interacted with RIG-I to activate anti-tumor immunity via the IFN-γ pathway.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our findings characterize a tumor suppressor circKEAP1 as a key tumor suppressor regulating of OS cell stemness, proliferation and migration, providing potential therapeutic targets for treatment of OS.

Contribution of Autophagy to Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition Induction during Cancer Progression

Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a dedifferentiation process implicated in many physio-pathological conditions including tumor transformation. EMT is regulated by several extracellular mediators and under certain conditions it can be reversible. Autophagy is a conserved catabolic process in which intracellular components such as protein/DNA aggregates and abnormal organelles are degraded in specific lysosomes. In cancer, autophagy plays a controversial role, acting in different conditions as both a tumor suppressor and a tumor-promoting mechanism. Experimental evidence shows that deep interrelations exist between EMT and autophagy-related pathways. Although this interplay has already been analyzed in previous studies, understanding mechanisms and the translational implications of autophagy/EMT need further study. The role of autophagy in EMT is not limited to morphological changes, but activation of autophagy could be important to DNA repair/damage system, cell adhesion molecules, and cell proliferation and differentiation processes. Based on this, both autophagy and EMT and related pathways are now considered as targets for cancer therapy. In this review article, the contribution of autophagy to EMT and progression of cancer is discussed. This article also describes the multiple connections between EMT and autophagy and their implication in cancer treatment.

The prognostic role of single cell invasion and nuclear diameter in early oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The clinical significance of single cell invasion and large nuclear diameter is not well documented in early-stage oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC).

METHODS

We used hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections to evaluate the presence of single cell invasion and large nuclei in a multicenter cohort of 311 cases treated for early-stage OTSCC.

RESULTS

Single cell invasion was associated in multivariable analysis with poor disease-specific survival (DSS) with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.089 (95% CI 1.224-3.566, P = 0.007), as well as with disease-free survival (DFS) with a HR of 1.666 (95% CI 1.080-2.571, P = 0.021). Furthermore, large nuclei were associated with worse DSS (HR 2.070, 95% CI 1.216-3.523, P = 0.007) and with DFS in multivariable analysis (HR 1.645, 95% CI 1.067-2.538, P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Single cell invasion and large nuclei can be utilized for classifying early OTSCC into risk groups.

OLFM2 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion in colorectal cancer through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an aggressive tumor of the gastrointestinal tract, which is a major public health concern worldwide. Despite numerous studies, the precise mechanism of metastasis behind its progression remains elusive. As a member of the containing olfactomedin domains protein family, olfactomedin 2 (OLFM2) may play a role in tumor metastasis. It is highly expressed in colorectal cancer, and its role in the metastasis of CRC is still unclear. As such, this study seeks to explore the function of OLFM2 on CRC metastasis and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to study the expression of OLFM2 in human CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown and overexpression OLFM2 cell lines were constructed using siRNA and overexpression plasmids to explore the role of OLFM2 in the migration and invasion of CRC through transwell, and wound healing experiments. Finally, the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) -related proteins and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins was investigated using western blotting.

RESULTS

In this study, we observed an elevation of OLFM2 expression levels in CRC tissues. To investigate the function of OLFM2, we overexpressed and knocked down OLFM2. We discovered that OLFM2 knockdown inhibited migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, E-cadherin expression increased while N-cadherin and Vimentin expression were opposite. It is no surprise that overexpressing OLFM2 had the opposite effects. We also identified that OLFM2 knockdown resulted in reduced TGF-βR1 and downstream molecules p-Smad2 and p-Smad3, which are related to the TGF-β / Smad pathway. In contrast, overexpressing OLFM2 significantly boosted their expression levels.

CONCLUSION

The protein OLFM2 has been identified as a crucial determinant in the progression of CRC. Its mechanism of action involves the facilitation of EMT through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Given its pivotal role in CRC, OLFM2 has emerged as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for the disease. These results indicate the potential of OLFM2 as a valuable biomarker for CRC diagnosis and treatment and highlight the need for further research exploring its clinical significance.

The E3 ligase NEURL3 suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma by promoting vimentin degradation

BACKGROUND

Metastasis has emerged as the major reason of treatment failure and mortality in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Growing evidence links abnormal DNA methylation to the initiation and progression of NPC. However, the precise regulatory mechanism behind these processes remains poorly understood.

METHODS

Bisulfite pyrosequencing, RT-qPCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to test the methylation and expression level of NEURL3 and its clinical significance. The biological function of NEURL3 was examined both in vitro and in vivo. Mass spectrometry, co-immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, and ubiquitin assays were performed to explore the regulatory mechanism of NEURL3.

RESULTS

The promoter region of NEURL3, encoding an E3 ubiquitin ligase, was obviously hypermethylated, leading to its downregulated expression in NPC. Clinically, NPC patients with a low NEURL3 expression indicated an unfavorable prognosis and were prone to develop distant metastasis. Overexpression of NEURL3 could suppress the epithelial mesenchymal transition and metastasis of NPC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NEURL3 promoted Vimentin degradation by increasing its K48-linked polyubiquitination at lysine 97. Specifically, the restoration of Vimentin expression could fully reverse the tumor suppressive effect of NEURL3 overexpression in NPC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our study uncovers a novel mechanism by which NEURL3 inhibits NPC metastasis, thereby providing a promising therapeutic target for NPC treatment.

Calcified Pilocytic Astrocytomas and Calcifying Pseudoneoplasms of the Neuraxis: A Diagnostic Challenge

Pilocytic astrocytoma (PA), recognized as the most prevalent central nervous system (CNS) tumor, has long been associated with calcifications, a characteristic often attributed to benign or indolent growth patterns. In this study, we explored the calcified attributes in these tumors that beckon a deeper understanding. This is a retrospective study, on a set of seven cases, with a histopathological diagnosis of pilocytic astrocytoma with calcifications and psammoma bodies (PB). Despite an encouraging overall survival outcome, the recurrence in four cases cast some doubt on the conventional classification. The histological study of these cases revealed a spectrum of calcifications, varying in size and morphology, all of which exhibited positive reactivity to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), osteoconduction, and osteopontin. Notably, the immunohistochemistry showed hyaline bodies displaying an atypical immune profile, strikingly negative for vimentin and GFAP, and a robust positivity for epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). These results stimulated speculation that the identity of these calcified tumors may have extended and potentially embraced the realm of calcifying pseudoneoplasms of the neuraxis (CAPNON), underscored by intense pilot gliosis. This study transcends mere anatomical exploration; it delves into the intricacies of calcified tumors, casting a spotlight on the dynamic interplay between PA and CAPNON. As we traverse the frontiers of neuro-oncology, these findings pave the way for innovative avenues in the diagnostics and therapeutics of these tumors.

Stabilizing vimentin phosphorylation inhibits stem-like cell properties and metastasis of hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal carcinomas

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) empowers epithelial cells with mesenchymal and stem-like attributes, facilitating metastasis, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) cells, retaining both epithelial and mesenchymal traits, exhibit heightened metastatic potential and stemness. The mesenchymal intermediate filament, vimentin, is upregulated during EMT, enhancing the resilience and invasiveness of carcinoma cells. The phosphorylation of vimentin is critical to its structure and function. Here, we identify that stabilizing vimentin phosphorylation at serine 56 induces multinucleation, specifically in hybrid E/M cells with stemness properties but not epithelial or mesenchymal cells. Cancer stem-like cells are especially susceptible to vimentin-induced multinucleation relative to differentiated cells, leading to a reduction in self-renewal and stemness. As a result, vimentin-induced multinucleation leads to sustained inhibition of stemness properties, tumor initiation, and metastasis. These observations indicate that a single, targetable phosphorylation event in vimentin is critical for stemness and metastasis in carcinomas with hybrid E/M properties.

Development and characterization of an immortalized swine respiratory cell line for influenza A virus research

Introduction

Swine serve as an important intermediate host species for generating novel influenza A viruses (IAVs) with pandemic potential because of the host's susceptibility to IAVs of swine, human and avian origin. Primary respiratory cell lines are used in IAV research to model the host's upper respiratory tract in vitro. However, primary cell lines are limited by their passaging capacity and are time-consuming for use in industry and research pipelines. We were interested in developing and characterizing a biologically relevant immortalized swine respiratory cell line that could be used for efficient propagation and characterization of swine IAV isolates.

Methods

Lung tissue for the generation of primary swine respiratory cells were isolated from the bronchi of an 8-week-old Yorkshire/Hampshire pig, which were immortalized by transduction of the SV40 T antigen using a lentivirus vector. The transduction of the SV40 T antigen was confirmed by Real Time RT-PCR in cells passaged greater than twenty times.

Results

Immortalized swine respiratory cells expressed primarily α2,6 sialic acid receptors and were susceptible to both swine and human IAVs, with swine viruses exhibiting higher replication rates. Notably, infection with a swine H3N2 isolate prompted increased IL-6 and IL-1α protein secretion compared to a seasonal human H3N2 virus. Even after 20 passages, the immortalized cells maintained the primary respiratory cell phenotype and remained permissive to IAV infection without exogenous trypsin.

Discussion

In summary, our developed immortalized swine respiratory cell line offers an alternative in vitro substrate for studying IAV replication and transmission dynamics in pigs, overcoming the limitations of primary respiratory cells in terms of low passage survivability and cost.

Histological characterization of the human masticatory oral mucosa. A histochemical and immunohistochemical study

BACKGROUND

Histology of human oral mucosa is closely related with its function and anatomical location, and a proper characterization of the human masticatory oral mucosa could be very useful in periodontal pathology.

OBJECTIVE

In the present work, we have carried out a comprehensive study in order to determine the main histological features of parakeratinized (POM) and orthokeratinized (OOM) masticatory human oral mucosa using light and electron microscopy.

METHODS

To perform this, we have used several histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical methods to detect key markets at the epithelial, basement membrane and connective tissue levels.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that POM and OOM share many histological similarities, as expected. However, important differences were observed at the epithelial layer of POM, that was significantly thicker than the epithelial layer found in OOM, especially due to a higher number of cells at the stratum spinosum. The expression pattern of CK10 and filaggrin revealed intense signal expression in OOM as compared to POM. Collagen and proteoglycans were more abundant in OOM stroma than in POM. No differences were found for blood vessels and basement membrane.

CONCLUSION

These results may contribute to a better understanding of the pathological conditions affecting the human masticatory oral mucosa. In addition, these findings could be useful for the generation of different types of oral mucosa by tissue engineering techniques.

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Microscopical features of parakeratinized and orthokeratinized masticatory human oral mucosa showed important differences at both, epithelial and stromal levels. Parakeratinized masticatory human oral mucosa exert thicker epithelial layer, especially, at the stratum spinosum in comparison to orthokeratinized human oral mucosa. Cytokeratin 10 and filaggrin human epithelial markers were intensively expressed in orthokeratinized masticatory human oral mucosa in comparison to parakeratinized masticatory human oral mucosa. At the stromal level, orthokeratinized masticatory human oral mucosa exhibit higher levels of collagen and proteoglycans than parakeratinized masticatory oral mucosa. The deep knowledge of histological features of masticatory oral mucosa could lead to a better understanding of oral mucosa pathology and advanced treatments.

Vimentin promotes glioma progression and maintains glioma cell resistance to oxidative phosphorylation inhibition

PURPOSE

Glioma has been demonstrated as one of the most malignant intracranial tumors and currently there is no effective treatment. Based on our previous RNA-sequencing data for oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)-inhibition resistant and OXPHOS-inhibition sensitive cancer cells, we found that vimentin (VIM) is highly expressed in the OXPHOS-inhibition resistant cancer cells, especially in glioma cancer cells. Further study of VIM in the literature indicates that it plays important roles in cancer progression, immunotherapy suppression, cancer stemness and drug resistance. However, its role in glioma remains elusive. This study aims to decipher the role of VIM in glioma, especially its role in OXPHOS-inhibition sensitivity, which may provide a promising therapeutic target for glioma treatment.

METHODS

The expression of VIM in glioma and the normal tissue has been obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and further validated in Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA). And the single-cell sequencing data was obtained from TISCH2. The immune infiltration was calculated via Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), Estimation of Stromal and Immune Cells in Malignant Tumors using Expression Data (ESTIMATE) and ssGSEA, and the Immunophenoscore (IPS) was calculated via R package. The differentiated expressed genes were analyzed including GO/KEGG and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) between the VIM-high and -low groups. The methylation of VIM was checked at the EWAS and Methsurv. The correlation between VIM expression and cancer stemness was obtained from SangerBox. We also employed DepMap data and verified the role of VIM by knocking down it in VIM-high glioma cell and over-expressing it in VIM-low glioma cells to check the cell viability.

RESULTS

Vim is highly expressed in the glioma patients compared to normal samples and its high expression negatively correlates with patients' survival. The DNA methylation in VIM promoters in glioma patients is lower than that in the normal samples. High VIM expression positively correlates with the immune infiltration and tumor progression. Furthermore, Vim is expressed high in the OXPHOS-inhibition glioma cancer cells and low in the OXPHOS-inhibition sensitive ones and its expression maintains the OXPHOS-inhibition resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we comprehensively deciphered the role of VIM in the progression of glioma and its clinical outcomes. Thus provide new insights into targeting VIM in glioma cancer immunotherapy in combination with the current treatment.

Is cancer an intelligent species?

Some relevant emerging properties of intelligent systems are "adaptation to a changing environment," "reaction to unexpected situations," "capacity of problem solving," and "ability to communicate." Single cells have remarkable abilities to adapt, make adequate context-dependent decision, take constructive actions, and communicate, thus theoretically meeting all the above-mentioned requirements. From a biological point of view, cancer can be viewed as an invasive species, composed of cells that move from primary to distant sites, being continuously exposed to changes in the environmental conditions. Blood represents the first hostile habitat that a cancer cell encounters once detached from the primary site, so that cancer cells must rapidly carry out multiple adaptation strategies to survive. The aim of this review was to deepen the adaptation mechanisms of cancer cells in the blood microenvironment, particularly referring to four adaptation strategies typical of animal species (phenotypic adaptation, metabolic adaptation, niche adaptation, and collective adaptation), which together define the broad concept of biological intelligence. We provided evidence that the required adaptations (either structural, metabolic, and related to metastatic niche formation) and "social" behavior are useful principles allowing putting into a coherent frame many features of circulating cancer cells. This interpretative frame is described by the comparison with analog behavioral traits typical of various animal models.

Biosensors for the detection of lung cancer biomarkers: A review on biomarkers, transducing techniques and recent graphene-based implementations

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death. In addition to chest X-rays and computerised tomography, the detection of cancer biomarkers serves as an emerging diagnostic tool for lung cancer. This review explores biomarkers including the rat sarcoma gene, the tumour protein 53 gene, the epidermal growth factor receptor, the neuron-specific enolase, the cytokeratin-19 fragment 21-1 and carcinoembryonic antigen as potential indicators of lung cancer. Biosensors, which utilise various transduction techniques, present a promising solution for the detection of lung cancer biomarkers. Therefore, this review also explores the working principles and recent implementations of transducers in the detection of lung cancer biomarkers. The transducing techniques explored include optical techniques, electrochemical techniques and mass-based techniques for detecting biomarkers and cancer-related volatile organic compounds. Graphene has outstanding properties in terms of charge transfer, surface area, thermal conductivity and optical characteristics, on top of allowing easy incorporation of other nanomaterials. Exploiting the collective merits of both graphene and biosensor is an emerging trend, as evidenced by the growing number of studies on graphene-based biosensors for the detection of lung cancer biomarkers. This work provides a comprehensive review of these studies, including information on modification schemes, nanomaterials, amplification strategies, real sample applications, and sensor performance. The paper concludes with a discussion of the challenges and future outlook of lung cancer biosensors, including scalable graphene synthesis, multi-biomarker detection, portability, miniaturisation, financial support, and commercialisation.

Development of a primary cell model derived from porcine dorsal soft palate for foot-and-mouth disease virus research and diagnosis

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals that has a significant socio-economic impact. One concern associated with this disease is the ability of its etiological agent, the FMD virus (FMDV), to persist in its hosts through underlying mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. While persistence has been described in cattle and small ruminants, it is unlikely to occur in pigs. One of the factors limiting the progress in understanding FMDV persistence and, in particular, differential persistence is the lack of suitable in vitro models. A primary bovine cell model derived from the dorsal soft palate, which is the primary site of replication and persistence of FMDV in cattle, has been developed, and it seemed relevant to develop a similar porcine model. Cells from two sites of FMDV replication in pigs, namely, the dorsal soft palate and the oropharyngeal tonsils, were isolated and cultured. The epithelial character of the cells from the dorsal soft palate was then assessed by immunofluorescence. The FMDV-sensitivity of these cells was assessed after monolayer infection with FMDV O/FRA/1/2001 Clone 2.2. These cells were also grown in multilayers at the air-liquid interface to mimic a stratified epithelium susceptible to FMDV infection. Consistent with what has been shown in vivo in pigs, our study showed no evidence of persistence of FMDV in either the monolayer or multilayer model, with no infectious virus detected 28 days after infection. The development of such a model opens up new possibilities for the study and diagnosis of FMDV in porcine cells.

[18F] AlF-NOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT can predict treatment response and survival in patients receiving chemotherapy for inoperable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

We investigated whether uptake of [18F] AlF-NOTA-FAPI-04 on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) could predict treatment response and survival in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 47 patients with histopathologically confirmed primary PDAC who provided pretreatment [18F] AlF-NOTA-FAPI-04 scans to detect fibroblast activation protein (FAP) on the tumor surface by uptake of [18F] AlF-NOTA-FAPI-04. PDAC specimens were immunohistochemically stained with cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) markers. We obtained a second PET scan after one cycle of chemotherapy to study changes in FAPI uptake variables from before to during treatment. Correlations between baseline PET variables and CAF-related immunohistochemical markers were assessed with Spearman's rank test. Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier methods were used to assess relationships between disease progression and potential predictors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to define the optimal cut-off points for distinguishing patients according to good response vs. poor response per RECIST v.1.1.

RESULTS

The FAPI PET variables maximum and mean standardized uptake values (SUVmax, SUVmean), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion FAP expression (TLF) were positively correlated with CAF markers (FAP, α-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, S100A4, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α/β, all P < 0.05). MTV was associated with survival in patients with inoperable PDAC (all P < 0.05). Cox multivariate regression showed that MTV was associated with overall survival (MTV hazard ratio [HR] = 1.016, P = 0.016). Greater changes from before to during chemotherapy in SUVmax, MTV, and TLF were associated with good treatment response (all P < 0.05). ΔMTV, ΔTLF, and ΔSUVmax had larger areas under the curve than ΔCA19-9 for predicting treatment response. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the extent of change in MTV and TLF from before to after treatment predicted progression-free survival, with cut-off values (based on medians) of - 4.95 for ΔMTV (HR = 8.09, P = 0.013) and - 77.83 for ΔTLF (HR = 4.62, P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

A higher baseline MTV on [18F] AlF-NOTA-FAPI-04 scans was associated with poorer survival in patients with inoperable PDAC. ΔMTV was more sensitive for predicting response than ΔCA19-9. These results are clinically meaningful for identifying patients with PDAC who are at high risk of disease progression.

A novel 3D biofabrication strategy to improve cell proliferation and differentiation of human Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stromal cells for cell therapy and tissue engineering

Purpose: Obtaining sufficient numbers of cells in a short time is a major goal of cell culturing in cell therapy and tissue engineering. However, current bidimensional (2D) culture methods are associated to several limitations, including low efficiency and the loss of key cell differentiation markers on cultured cells. Methods: In the present work, we have designed a novel biofabrication method based on a three-dimensional (3D) culture system (FIBRIAGAR-3D). Human Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (HWJSC) were cultured in 3D using 100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% concentrations of fibrin-agarose biomaterials (FA100, FA75, FA50 and FA25 group) and compared with control cells cultured using classical 2D systems (CTR-2D). Results: Our results showed a significant increase in the number of cells generated after 7 days of culture, with cells displaying numerous expansions towards the biomaterial, and a significant overexpression of the cell proliferation marker KI67 was found for the FA75 and FA100 groups. TUNEL and qRT-PCR analyses demonstrated that the use of FIBRIAGAR-3D was not associated with an induction of apoptosis by cultured cells. Instead, the 3D system retained the expression of typical phenotypic markers of HWJSC, including CD73, CD90, CD105, NANOG and OCT4, and biosynthesis markers such as types-I and IV collagens, with significant increase of some of these markers, especially in the FA100 group. Finally, our analysis of 8 cell signaling molecules revealed a significant decrease of GM-CSF, IFN-g, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL8, and TNFα, suggesting that the 3D culture system did not induce the expression of pro-inflammatory molecules. Conclusion: These results confirm the usefulness of FIBRIAGAR-3D culture systems to increase cell proliferation without altering cell phenotype of immunogenicity and opens the door to the possibility of using this novel biofabrication method in cell therapy and tissue engineering of the human cornea, oral mucosa, skin, urethra, among other structures.

Tumor cells-derived exosomal PD-L1 promotes the growth and invasion of lung cancer cells <em>in vitro via</em> mediating macrophages M2 polarization

Lung cancer originating from the bronchial epithelium is the most common lung malignancy. It has been reported that programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and tumor-associated macrophages are closely related to the development of lung cancer. However, whether tumor-derived exosomal PD-L1 could mediate the regulation of macrophage polarization in lung cancer remains unclear. For this research, the level of PD-L1 in normal tissues and lung cancer tissues was evaluated using RT-qPCR. Next, the apoptosis of lung cancer cells was evaluated using flow cytometry assay. Then, the structure and morphology of vesicles were observed using transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Later on, the internalization of exosomes by macrophage was observed using fluorescence microscopy. Our results showed that the level of PD-L1 was upregulated in tumor tissues and lung cancer cells. Knockdown of PD-L1 notably inhibited the viability, migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. In addition, lung cancer cells-derived exosomal PD-L1 could be absorbed by macrophages. Meanwhile, exosomal PD-L1 was able to promote macrophages M2 polarization. Moreover, macrophages M2 polarization induced by exosomal PD-L1 further remarkably promoted the viability, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition process of lung cancer cells. Collectively, knockdown of PD-L1 notably inhibited the viability, migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. Tumor cell-derived exosomal PD-L1 could promote the growth of lung cancer cells by mediating macrophages M2 polarization. Thus, inhibiting macrophages M2 polarization might be a promoting therapy for the treatment of lung cancer.

Protein Z modulates the metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma cells

Protein Z (PZ), a vitamin-K-dependent anticoagulant glycoprotein, is reported to be highly expressed in various malignant tissues and correlated with a poor prognosis in patients with lung cancer. This study aimed to investigate the pathological activity of PZ on lung cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis. PZ was assessed by Western blot in three non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines (A549, H1299, and H1975). Meanwhile,western blot was used to detect the expression of EMT pathway-related proteins (Slug, Vimentin, and N-cadherin) in the A549 cells knocked down with siRNA. The cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion were detected by Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8, wound healing, and Transwell assays in the A549 cells. The results showed that PZ expression was higher in A549, H1299, and H1975 cells, according to Western blot. CCK-8, wound healing, and Transwell assays showed that knockdown of PZ significantly decreased cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as the protein levels of Slug, Vimentin, and N-cadherin in the A549 cells. In conclusion, the pro-metastasis activity of PZ may modulate the epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway in lung cancer A549 cells.

GBA Regulates EMT/MET and Chemoresistance in Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells by Modulating the Cellular Glycosphingolipid Profile

Glycosphingolipids (GSL) are plasma membrane components that influence molecular processes involved in cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic responses. They also modulate receptor tyrosine kinases involved in EMT. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that regulate GSLs in cancer has important therapeutic potential. One critical regulator of GSLs is the lysosomal glucosylceramidase β1 (GBA) that catalyzes the last step in GSL degradation. We show that, in cancer, GBA copy number amplifications and increased expression are widespread. We show that depleting GBA in squamous cell carcinoma cell lines results in a mesenchymal-to-epithelial shift, decreased invasion and migration, increased chemotherapeutic sensitivity, and decreased activation of receptor tyrosine kinases that are involved in regulating EMT. Untargeted lipidomics shows that GBA depletion had significant effects on sphingolipids and GSLs, suggesting that increased GBA activity in cancer sustains EMT and chemoresistance by modulating receptor tyrosine kinase activity and signaling via effects on the cellular lipid profile.

Golgi-protein 73 facilitates vimentin polymerization in hepatocellular carcinoma

Golgi-protein 73 (GP73) is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and, as a secretory protein, it has been proposed as a serum biomarker indicating progression of HCC. The underlying mechanism by which GP73 may promote HCC metastasis is still poorly understood. In this study, we discovered that GP73 interacted with vimentin to facilitate Serine/Threonine-protein phosphatase PP1-alpha (PP1A)-mediated dephosphorylation of vimentin at S56 and facilitated vimentin polymerization, which blocked vimentin degradation via TRIM56-mediated ubiquitin/proteasome-dependent pathway. Strikingly, Clomipramine, a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor (5-HTR) agonist approved for the treatment of depression, impaired GP73-mediated vimentin polymerization to effectively inhibit metastasis of HCC with high GP73 expression, which provided a new strategy against HCC metastasis. Lastly, it was found that serum GP73 (sGP73) correlated positively with vimentin in primary tissues of HCC, suggesting that sGP73 might serve as a potential serum biomarker for companion diagnosis of HCC with highly expressed vimentin. In summary, this study reveals the process of GP73-mediated vimentin polymerization and proves that Clomipramine serves as a potential drug targeting vimentin for metastatic HCC patients with high sGP73 level.

Oxidative stress induced by Pollonein-LAAO, a new L-amino acid oxidase from Bothrops moojeni venom, prompts prostate tumor spheroid cell death and impairs the cellular invasion process in vitro

Cancer cells produce abnormal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to promote their malignant phenotype. In this framework, we hypothesized that the change in ROS concentration above threshold could impair key events of prostate cancer cells (PC-3) progression. Our results demonstrated that Pollonein-LAAO, a new L-amino acid oxidase obtained from Bothrops moojeni venom, was cytotoxic to PC-3 cells in two-dimensional and in tumor spheroid assays. Pollonein-LAAO was able to increase the intracellular ROS generation that culminates in cell death from apoptosis by both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways due to the up-regulation of TP53, BAX, BAD, TNFRSF10B and CASP8. Additionally, Pollonein-LAAO reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and caused G0/G1 phase to delay, due to the up-regulation of CDKN1A and the down-regulation of the expression of CDK2 and E2F. Interestingly, Pollonein-LAAO inhibited critical steps of the cellular invasion process (migration, invasion and adhesion), due to the down-regulation of SNAI1, VIM, MMP2, ITGA2, ITGAV and ITGB3. Furthermore, the Pollonein-LAAO effects were associated with the intracellular ROS production, since the presence of catalase restored the invasiveness of PC-3 cells. In this sense, this study contributes to the potential use of Pollonein-LAAO as ROS-based agent to enhance the current understanding of cancer treatment strategies.

Unraveling the Role of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Salivary Glands: A Comprehensive Review

Salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) is considered a challenging malignancy; it is characterized by a slow-growing nature, yet a high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis, presenting significant hurdles in its treatment and management. At present, there are no approved targeted agents available for the management of SACC and systemic chemotherapy protocols that have demonstrated efficacy remain to be elucidated. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex process that is closely associated with tumor progression and metastasis, enabling epithelial cells to acquire mesenchymal properties, including increased mobility and invasiveness. Several molecular signaling pathways have been implicated in the regulation of EMT in SACC, and understanding these mechanisms is crucial to identifying new therapeutic targets and developing more effective treatment approaches. This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest research on the role of EMT in SACC, including the molecular pathways and biomarkers involved in EMT regulation. By highlighting the most recent findings, this review offers insights into potential new therapeutic strategies that could improve the management of SACC patients, especially those with recurrent or metastatic disease.

Estrogen Receptor β4 Regulates Chemotherapy Resistance and Induces Cancer Stem Cells in Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) has the worst prognosis among all breast cancers, and survival in patients with recurrence is rarely beyond 12 months due to acquired resistance to chemotherapy, which is the standard of care for these patients. Our hypothesis is that Estrogen Receptor β1 (ERβ1) increases response to chemotherapy but is opposed by ERβ4, which it preferentially dimerizes with. The role of ERβ1 and ERβ4 in influencing chemotherapy sensitivity has never been studied before. CRISPR/CAS9 was used to truncate ERβ1 Ligand Binding Domain (LBD) and knock down the exon unique to ERβ4. We show that the truncated ERβ1 LBD in a variety of mutant p53 TNBC cell lines, where ERβ1 ligand dependent function was inactivated, had increased resistance to Paclitaxel, whereas the ERβ4 knockdown cell line was sensitized to Paclitaxel. We further show that ERβ1 LBD truncation, as well as treatment with ERβ1 antagonist 2-phenyl-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-5,7-bis(trifluoromethyl)-pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidine (PHTPP), leads to increase in the drug efflux transporters. Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIFs) activate factors involved in pluripotency and regulate the stem cell phenotype, both in normal and cancer cells. Here we show that the ERβ1 and ERβ4 regulate these stem cell markers like SOX2, OCT4, and Nanog in an opposing manner; and we further show that this regulation is mediated by HIFs. We show the increase of cancer cell stemness due to ERβ1 LBD truncation is attenuated when HIF1/2α is knocked down by siRNA. Finally, we show an increase in the breast cancer stem cell population due to ERβ1 antagonist using both ALDEFLUOR^TM and SOX2/OCT4 response element (SORE6) reporters in SUM159 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Since most TNBC cancers are ERβ4 positive, while only a small proportion of TNBC patients are ERβ1 positive, we believe that simultaneous activation of ERβ1 with agonists and inactivation of ERβ4, in combination with paclitaxel, can be more efficacious and yield better outcome for chemotherapy resistant TNBC patients.

Molecules promoting circulating clusters of cancer cells suggest novel therapeutic targets for treatment of metastatic cancers

Treatment of metastatic disease remains among the most challenging tasks in oncology. One of the early events that predicts a poor prognosis and precedes the development of metastasis is the occurrence of clusters of cancer cells in the blood flow. Moreover, the presence of heterogeneous clusters of cancerous and noncancerous cells in the circulation is even more dangerous. Review of pathological mechanisms and biological molecules directly involved in the formation and pathogenesis of the heterotypic circulating tumor cell (CTC) clusters revealed their common properties, which include increased adhesiveness, combined epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype, CTC-white blood cell interaction, and polyploidy. Several molecules involved in the heterotypic CTC interactions and their metastatic properties, including IL6R, CXCR4 and EPCAM, are targets of approved or experimental anticancer drugs. Accordingly, analysis of patient survival data from the published literature and public datasets revealed that the expression of several molecules affecting the formation of CTC clusters predicts patient survival in multiple cancer types. Thus, targeting of molecules involved in CTC heterotypic interactions might be a valuable strategy for the treatment of metastatic cancers.

Thymosin beta-4 - A potential tool in healing middle ear lesions in adult mammals

Acute tympanic membrane perforations primarily occur due to injury or infection in humans. In acute cases, nearly 80-94 % of the perforations heal spontaneously. In chronic cases, non-surgical treatment becomes significantly limited, and the perforation can be restored only by myringoplasty. In addition to classical grafts such as the fascia or cartilage, promising results have been reported with various biological materials including silk or acellular collagen. However, despite of all the efforts, healing remains insufficient. Consequentially, a need for substances which actively promote tympanic cell migration and proliferation is deemed essential. In our study, we utilized Thymosin beta-4 (TB4), a 43aa peptide possessing many regenerative properties in various organ systems. Our aim was to reveal the impact of externally administered TB4 regarding impairments of the middle ear, particularly the tympanic membrane. We harvested tympanic membranes from adult mice and treated these with TB4 or PBS on both collagen gel matrixes and in the form of floating, ex vivo explants. Cell migration and proliferation was measured, while immunocytochemical analyses were performed to determine cell type and the nature of the targeted molecules. We discovered the peptide affects the behavior of epidermal and epithelial cells of the tympanic membrane in vitro. Moreover, as our initial results imply, it is not the differentiated, yet most likely the local epidermal progenitor cells which are the primary targets of the molecule. Our present results unveil a new, thus far undiscovered field regarding clinical utilization for TB4 in the future.

MALDI-IHC-Guided In-Depth Spatial Proteomics: Targeted and Untargeted MSI Combined

Recently, a novel technology was published, utilizing the strengths of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), achieving highly multiplexed, targeted imaging of biomolecules in tissue. This new technique, called MALDI-IHC, opened up workflows to target molecules of interest using MALDI-MSI that are usually targeted by standard IHC. In this paper, the utility of targeted MALDI-IHC and its complementarity with untargeted on-tissue bottom-up spatial proteomics is explored using breast cancer tissue. Furthermore, the MALDI-2 effect was investigated and demonstrated to improve MALDI-IHC. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human breast cancer tissue sections were stained for multiplex MALDI-IHC with six photocleavable mass-tagged (PC-MT) antibodies constituting a breast cancer antibody panel (CD20, actin-αSM, HER2, CD68, vimentin, and panCK). K-means spatial clusters were created based on the MALDI-IHC images and cut out using laser-capture microdissection (LMD) for further untargeted LC-MS-based bottom-up proteomics analyses. Numerous peptides could be tentatively assigned to multiple proteins, of which three proteins were also part of the antibody panel (vimentin, keratins, and actin). Post-ionization with MALDI-2 showed an increased intensity of the PC-MTs and suggests options for the development of new mass-tags. Although the on-tissue digestion covered a wider range of proteins, the MALDI-IHC allowed for easy and straightforward identification of proteins that were not detected in untargeted approaches. The combination of the multiplexed MALDI-IHC with image-guided proteomics showed great potential to further investigate diseases by providing complementary information from the same tissue section and without the need for customized instrumentation.

Pituitary Stem Cell Regulation by Zeb2 and BMP Signaling

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is important for many developing organs, and for wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer. Pituitary stem cells undergo an EMT-like process as they migrate and initiate differentiation, but little is known about the input of signaling pathways or the genetic hierarchy of the transcriptional cascade. Prop1 mutant stem cells fail to undergo changes in cellular morphology, migration, and transition to the Pou1f1 lineage. We used Prop1 mutant mice to identify the changes in gene expression that are affiliated with EMT-like processes. BMP and TGF-β family gene expression was reduced in Prop1 mutants and Elf5, a transcription factor that characteristically suppresses EMT, had elevated expression. Genes involved in cell-cell contact such as cadherins and claudins were elevated in Prop1 mutants. To establish the genetic hierarchy of control, we manipulated gene expression in pituitary stem cell colonies. We determined that the EMT inducer, Zeb2, is necessary for robust BMP signaling and repression of Elf5. We demonstrated that inhibition of BMP signaling affects expression of target genes in the Id family, but it does not affect expression of other EMT genes. Zeb2 is necessary for expression of the SHH effector gene Gli2. However, knock down of Gli2 has little effect on the EMT-related genes, suggesting that it acts through a separate pathway. Thus, we have established the genetic hierarchy involved in the transition of pituitary stem cells to differentiation.

Prognostic prediction and immune infiltration analysis based on ferroptosis and EMT state in hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Ferroptosis is one of the main mechanisms of sorafenib against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in the heterogeneity, tumor metastasis, immunosuppressive microenvironment, and drug resistance of HCC. However, there are few studies looking into the relationship between ferroptosis and EMT and how they may affect the prognosis of HCC collectively.

Methods

We downloaded gene expression and clinical data of HCC patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) databases for prognostic model construction and validation respectively. The Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression was used for model construction. The predictive ability of the model was assessed by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. We performed the expression profiles analysis to evaluate the ferroptosis and EMT state. CIBERSORT and single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) methods were used for immune infiltration analysis.

Results

A total of thirteen crucial genes were identified for ferroptosis-related and EMT-related prognostic model (FEPM) stratifying patients into two risk groups. The high-FEPM group had shorter overall survivals than the low-FEPM group (p<0.0001 in the TCGA cohort and p<0.05 in the ICGC cohort). The FEPM score was proved to be an independent prognostic risk factor (HR>1, p<0.01). Furthermore, the expression profiles analysis suggested that the high-FEPM group appeared to have a more suppressive ferroptosis status and a more active EMT status than the low- FEPM group. Immune infiltration analysis showed that the myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were highly enriched in the high-FEPM group. Finally, a nomogram enrolling FEPM score and TNM stage was constructed showing outstanding predictive capacity for the prognosis of patients in the two cohorts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we developed a ferroptosis-related and EMT-related prognostic model, which could help predict overall survival for HCC patients. It might provide a new idea for predicting the response to targeted therapies and immunotherapies in HCC patients.

Adding a new dimension: Multi-level structure and organization of mixed-species Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in a 4-D wound microenvironment

Biofilms in wounds typically consist of aggregates of bacteria, most often Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, in close association with each other and the host microenvironment. Given this, the interplay across host and microbial elements, including the biochemical and nutrient profile of the microenvironment, likely influences the structure and organization of wound biofilms. While clinical studies, in vivo and ex vivo model systems have provided insights into the distribution of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in wounds, they are limited in their ability to provide a detailed characterization of biofilm structure and organization across the host-microbial interface. On the other hand, biomimetic in vitro systems, such as host cell surfaces and simulant media conditions, albeit reductionist, have been shown to support the co-existence of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus biofilms, with species-dependent localization patterns and interspecies interactions. Therefore, composite in vitro models that bring together key features of the wound microenvironment could provide unprecedented insights into the structure and organization of mixed-species biofilms. We have built a four-dimensional (4-D) wound microenvironment consisting of a 3-D host cell scaffold of co-cultured human epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts, and an in vitro wound milieu (IVWM); the IVWM provides the fourth dimension that represents the biochemical and nutrient profile of the wound infection state. We leveraged this 4-D wound microenvironment, in comparison with biofilms in IVWM alone and standard laboratory media, to probe the structure of mixed-species P. aeruginosa and S. aureus biofilms across multiple levels of organization such as aggregate dimensions and biomass thickness, species co-localization and spatial organization within the biomass, overall biomass composition and interspecies interactions. In doing so, the 4-D wound microenvironment platform provides multi-level insights into the structure of mixed-species biofilms, which we incorporate into the current understanding of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus organization in the wound bed.

Enhanced migration and immunoregulatory capacity of BMSCs mediated by overexpression of CXCR4 and IL-35

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been widely studied for their applications in immunoregulation and tissue repair. However, the therapeutic effects of BMSCs in the body are limited, partly due to the low homing efficiency of BMSCs to affected parts. The stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1)/C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) axis is well known to play an essential role in the homing of BMSCs. Interleukin 35 (IL-35) is a newly discovered cytokine confirmed to inhibit overactivated immune function and have a good therapeutic effect on autoimmune diseases. In this study, we innovatively developed dual gene modification of BMSCs by transducing CXCR4 and IL-35 and found that the migration and immunomodulatory activity of genetically engineered BMSCs were significantly enhanced compared to their natural counterparts. These results suggest that BMSCs modified by dual overexpression of CXCR4 and IL-35 may provide a potential treatment strategy for autoimmune diseases.