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Zhang Y, Yan H, Wei Y, Wei X. Decoding mitochondria's role in immunity and cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189107. [PMID: 38734035 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The functions of mitochondria, including energy production and biomolecule synthesis, have been known for a long time. Given the rising incidence of cancer, the role of mitochondria in cancer has become increasingly popular. Activated by components released by mitochondria, various pathways interact with each other to induce immune responses to protect organisms from attack. However, mitochondria play dual roles in the progression of cancer. Abnormalities in proteins, which are the elementary structures of mitochondria, are closely linked with oncogenesis. Both the aberrant accumulation of intermediates and mutations in enzymes result in the generation and progression of cancer. Therefore, targeting mitochondria to treat cancer may be a new strategy. Several drugs aimed at inhibiting mutated enzymes and accumulated intermediates have been tested clinically. Here, we discuss the current understanding of mitochondria in cancer and the interactions between mitochondrial functions, immune responses, and oncogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss mitochondria as hopeful targets for cancer therapy, providing insights into the progression of future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041 Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hong Yan
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041 Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041 Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041 Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
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2
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Noè R, Carrer A. Diet predisposes to pancreatic cancer through cellular nutrient sensing pathways. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38886112 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14959] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with limited effective treatments. A deeper understanding of its molecular mechanisms is crucial to reduce incidence and mortality. Epidemiological evidence suggests a link between diet and disease risk, though dietary recommendations for at-risk individuals remain debated. Here, we propose that cell-intrinsic nutrient sensing pathways respond to specific diet-derived cues to facilitate oncogenic transformation of pancreatic epithelial cells. This review explores how diet influences pancreatic cancer predisposition through nutrient sensing and downstream consequences for (pre-)cancer cell biology. We also examine experimental evidence connecting specific food intake to pancreatic cancer progression, highlighting nutrient sensing as a promising target for therapeutic development to mitigate disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Noè
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Carrer
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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3
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Shi H, Chen L, Wang T, Zhang W, Liu J, Huang Y, Li J, Qi H, Wu Z, Wang Y, Chen H, Zhu Y, Li Q. Nur77-IRF1 axis inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth and improves anti-PD-1 treatment efficacy. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:254. [PMID: 38789431 PMCID: PMC11126585 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02019-x] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor Nur77 plays paradoxical roles in numerous cancers. However, whether Nur77 inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) growth and affects immunological responses against ESCC has not been determined. The functional role of Nur77 in ESCC was investigated in this study using human ESCC cell lines, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cell proliferation and colony formation assays, flow cytometry analysis, western blotting and animal models. The target gene controlled by Nur77 was verified using dual-luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis and functional rescue experiments. To examine the clinical importance of Nur77, 72 human primary ESCC tissues were subjected to immunohistochemistry. Taken together, these findings showed that, both in vitro and in vivo, Nur77 dramatically reduced ESCC cell growth and triggered apoptosis. Nur77 directly interacts with the interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) promoter to inhibit its activity in ESCC. Pharmacological induction of Nur77 using cytosporone B (CsnB) inhibited ESCC cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, CsnB increased CD8+ T-cell infiltration and cytotoxicity to inhibit the formation of ESCC tumors in an immunocompetent mouse model. In ESCC tissues, Nur77 expression was downregulated, and IRF1 expression was increased; moreover, their expression levels were negatively related. IRF1 and Nur77 were strongly correlated with overall survival. These findings suggested that Nur77 targets and regulates the IRF1/PD-L1 axis to serve as a tumor suppressor in ESCC. Graphical abstract of the regulatory mechanism of Nur77 overexpression downregulates IRF1 in the inhibition of ESCC progression and enhance anti-PD-1 therapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanying Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Tianxiao Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jiafeng Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yuxin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jiyifan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Huijie Qi
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zimei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Haifei Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Yongjun Zhu
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Qunyi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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Luo W, Zou Z, Nie Y, Luo J, Ming Z, Hu X, Luo T, Ouyang M, Liu M, Tang H, Xie Y, Peng K, Chen L, Zhou J, Luo Z. ASS1 inhibits triple-negative breast cancer by regulating PHGDH stability and de novo serine synthesis. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:319. [PMID: 38710705 PMCID: PMC11074131 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06672-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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Argininosuccinate synthase (ASS1), a critical enzyme in the urea cycle, acts as a tumor suppressor in many cancers. To date, the anticancer mechanism of ASS1 has not been fully elucidated. Here, we found that phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH), a key rate-limiting enzyme in serine synthesis, is a pivotal protein that interacts with ASS1. Our results showed that ASS1 directly binds to PHGDH and promotes its ubiquitination-mediated degradation to inhibit serine synthesis, consequently suppressing tumorigenesis. Importantly, the tumor suppressive effects of ASS1 were strongly abrogated by PHGDH knockout. In addition, ASS1 knockout and knockdown partially rescued cell proliferation when serine and glycine were depleted, while the inhibitory effect of ASS1 overexpression on cell proliferation was restored by the addition of serine and glycine. These findings unveil a novel role of ASS1 and suggest that the ASS1/PHGDH serine synthesis pathway is a promising target for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wensong Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zizheng Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Yiyang Key Laboratory of Chemical Small Molecule Anti-Tumor Targeted Therapy, Department of Scientific Research, Yiyang Medical College, Yiyang, 413000, China
| | - Yuan Nie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Junli Luo
- The Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhengnan Ming
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiyuan Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tiao Luo
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Min Ouyang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingquan Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huicheng Tang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuanzhu Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Kunjian Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiyong Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Yu XW, She PW, Chen FC, Chen YY, Zhou S, Wang XM, Lin XR, Liu QL, Huang ZJ, Qiu Y. Metabolic subtypes and immune landscapes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: prognostic implications and potential for personalized therapies. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:230. [PMID: 38373930 PMCID: PMC10875771 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11890-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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to identify metabolic subtypes in ESCA, explore their relationship with immune landscapes, and establish a metabolic index for accurate prognosis assessment. METHODS Clinical, SNP, and RNA-seq data were collected from 80 ESCA patients from the TCGA database and RNA-seq data from the GSE19417 dataset. Metabolic genes associated with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were selected, and k-means clustering was performed. Immune-related pathways, immune infiltration, and response to immunotherapy were predicted using bioinformatic algorithms. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted to identify metabolic genes associated with co-expression modules. Lastly, cell culture and functional analysis were performed using patient tissue samples and ESCA cell lines to verify the identified genes and their roles. RESULTS Molecular subtypes were identified based on the expression profiles of metabolic genes, and univariate survival analysis revealed 163 metabolic genes associated with ESCA prognosis. Consensus clustering analysis classified ESCA samples into three distinct subtypes, with MC1 showing the poorest prognosis and MC3 having the best prognosis. The subtypes also exhibited significant differences in immune cell infiltration, with MC3 showing the highest scores. Additionally, the MC3 subtype demonstrated the poorest response to immunotherapy, while the MC1 subtype was the most sensitive. WGCNA analysis identified gene modules associated with the metabolic index, with SLC5A1, NT5DC4, and MTHFD2 emerging as prognostic markers. Gene and protein expression analysis validated the upregulation of MTHFD2 in ESCA. MTHFD2 promotes the progression of ESCA and may be a potential therapeutic target for ESCA. CONCLUSION The established metabolic index and identified metabolic genes offer potential for prognostic assessment and personalized therapeutic interventions for ESCA, underscoring the importance of targeting metabolism-immune interactions in ESCA. MTHFD2 promotes the progression of ESCA and may be a potential therapeutic target for ESCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wan Yu
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China.
| | - Pei-Wei She
- Shengli Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, P. R. China
- Center for Experimental Research in Clinical Medicine, Fujian Provincial Hospital, 350001, Fuzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Fang-Chuan Chen
- Stomatology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Yu Chen
- Stomatology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Zhou
- Central Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Xi-Min Wang
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Rong Lin
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Qiao-Ling Liu
- Clinical Laboratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Jun Huang
- Esophageal Surgery Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China
| | - Yu Qiu
- Reproductive Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 362000, Quanzhou, Fujian, P. R. China.
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Xiao N, Xiong S, Zhou Z, Zhong M, Bai H, Li Q, Tang Y, Xie J. Recent progress in biomaterials-driven ferroptosis for cancer therapy. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:288-307. [PMID: 38189655 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01832f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Ferroptosis, first suggested in 2012, is a type of non-apoptotic programmed cell death caused by the buildup of lipid peroxidation and marked by an overabundance of oxidized poly unsaturated fatty acids. During the last decade, researchers have uncovered the formation of ferroptosis and created multiple drugs aimed at it, but due to poor selectivity and pharmacokinetics, clinical application has been hindered. In recent years, biomedical discoveries and developments in nanotechnology have spurred the investigation of ferroptosis nanomaterials, providing new opportunities for the ferroptosis driven tumours treatment. Additionally, hydrogels have been widely studied in ferroptosis because of their unique 3D structure and excellent controllability. By using these biomaterials, it is possible to achieve controlled release and targeted delivery of drugs, thus increasing the potency of the drugs and minimizing adverse effects. Therefore, summarizing the biomedical nanomaterials, including hydrogels, used in ferroptosis for cancer therapy is a must. This article provides an overview of ferroptosis, detailing its properties and underlying mechanisms. It also categorizes and reviews the use of various nanomaterials in ferroptosis, along with relevant explanations and illustrations. In addition, we discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the application of nanomaterials in ferroptosis. Finally, the development prospects of this field are prospected. This review is intended to provide a foundation for the development and application of biomedical nanomaterials in ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianting Xiao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Su Xiong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Ziwei Zhou
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Min Zhong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Huayang Bai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Qiyu Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Yaqin Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Jing Xie
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
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Li C, Shi S. Gut microbiota and metabolic profiles in chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced rats: disease-associated dysbiosis and metabolic disturbances. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1224396. [PMID: 38283743 PMCID: PMC10811599 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1224396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a key characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome, a chronic respiratory disorder. The mechanisms of CIH-induced metabolic disturbance and histopathological damage remain unclear. Methods CIH-induced rats underwent daily 8-h CIH, characterized by oxygen levels decreasing from 21% to 8.5% over 4 min, remaining for 2 min, and quickly returning to 21% for 1 min. The control rats received a continuous 21% oxygen supply. The levels of hypersensitive C reactive protein (h-CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) were measured by ELISA. Histological analysis of the soft palates was conducted using HE staining. The microbial profiling of fecal samples was carried out by Accu16STM assay. Untargeted metabolomics of serum and soft palate tissue samples were analyzed by UPLC-MS. The protein expression of cAMP-related pathways in the soft palate was determined by Western blot. Results After 28 h of CIH induction, a significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed in the serum, along with mucosal layer thickening and soft palate tissue hypertrophy. CIH induction altered the diversity and composition of fecal microbiota, specifically reducing beneficial bacteria while increasing harmful bacteria/opportunistic pathogens. Notably, CIH induction led to a significant enrichment of genera such as Dorea, Oscillibacter, Enteractinococcus, Paenibacillus, Globicatella, and Flaviflexus genera. Meanwhile, Additionally, CIH induction had a notable impact on 108 serum marker metabolites. These marker metabolites, primarily involving amino acids, organic acids, and a limited number of flavonoids or sterols, were associated with protein transport, digestion and absorption, amino acid synthesis and metabolism, as well as cancer development. Furthermore, these differential serum metabolites significantly affected 175 differential metabolites in soft palate tissue, mainly related to cancer development, signaling pathways, amino acid metabolism, nucleotide precursor or intermediate metabolism, respiratory processes, and disease. Importantly, CIH induction could significantly affect the expression of the cAMP pathway in soft palate tissue. Conclusions Our findings suggest that targeting differential metabolites in serum and soft palate tissue may represent a new approach to clinical intervention and treatment of OSA simulated by the CIH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Song Shi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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8
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Zhao X, Li X, Xu Y. Ferroptosis: a dual-edged sword in tumour growth. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1330910. [PMID: 38273826 PMCID: PMC10808349 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1330910] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a recently identified form of non-apoptotic cell death, is distinguished by its dependence on iron-triggered lipid peroxidation and accumulation of iron. It has been linked to various disorders, including the development of tumours. Interestingly, ferroptosis appears to exhibit a dual role in the context of tumour growth. This article provides a thorough exploration of the inherent ambivalence within ferroptosis, encompassing both its facilitation and inhibition of tumorous proliferation. It examines potential therapeutic targets associated with ferroptosis, the susceptibility of cancerous cells to ferroptosis, strategies to enhance the efficacy of existing cancer treatments, the interaction between ferroptosis and the immune response to tumours, and the fundamental mechanisms governing ferroptosis-induced tumour progression. A comprehensive understanding of how ferroptosis contributes to tumour biology and the strategic management of its dual nature are crucial for maximizing its therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yinghui Xu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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9
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Sadida HQ, Abdulla A, Marzooqi SA, Hashem S, Macha MA, Akil ASAS, Bhat AA. Epigenetic modifications: Key players in cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance. Transl Oncol 2024; 39:101821. [PMID: 37931371 PMCID: PMC10654239 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance remain pivotal obstacles in effective cancer treatment and management. One major contributor to these challenges is epigenetic modifications - gene regulation that does not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself but significantly impacts gene expression. As we elucidate these phenomena, we underscore the pivotal role of epigenetic modifications in regulating gene expression, contributing to cellular diversity, and driving adaptive changes that can instigate therapeutic resistance. This review dissects essential epigenetic modifications - DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling - illustrating their significant yet complex contributions to cancer biology. While these changes offer potential avenues for therapeutic intervention due to their reversible nature, the interplay of epigenetic and genetic changes in cancer cells presents unique challenges that must be addressed to harness their full potential. By critically analyzing the current research landscape, we identify knowledge gaps and propose future research directions, exploring the potential of epigenetic therapies and discussing the obstacles in translating these concepts into effective treatments. This comprehensive review aims to stimulate further research and aid in developing innovative, patient-centered cancer therapies. Understanding the role of epigenetic modifications in cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance is critical for scientific advancement and paves the way towards improving patient outcomes in the fight against this formidable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Q Sadida
- Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar
| | - Alanoud Abdulla
- Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar
| | - Sara Al Marzooqi
- Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar
| | - Sheema Hashem
- Laboratory of Genomic Medicine, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Ammira S Al-Shabeeb Akil
- Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer, Department of Population Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha 26999, Qatar.
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10
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Fang Y, Yang W, Wu L, Yao L, Cao X, Chen H. An aging-related gene signature to predict the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36715. [PMID: 38134103 PMCID: PMC10735142 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036715] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging increases the susceptibility of various diseases, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to establish an aging-related prognostic model for HCC and to investigate the role of aging-related genes in HCC progression. Transcriptome and clinical information of HCC cases were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Aging-related prognostic genes were identified through univariate Cox regression analysis, protein-protein interaction analysis, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. An aging-related risk signature was then constructed, including LDHA, MMP12, ATAD3A, CD8A, TPI1, CST3, and TPM1. The risk score was inversely associated with the overall survival of patients with HCC and correlated well with known prognostic factors. The area under the curve of 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival in the training dataset was 0.83, 0.83, and 0.84, respectively. Univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis verified that the aging-related risk signature independently predicted the overall survival in HCC. To increase the clinical utility of the prognostic model, a nomogram was developed by incorporating the risk score with key clinical features. Finally, single-cell transcriptomes of HCC were analyzed to elucidate the expression pattern of the prognostic genes across different tissues, pathologic stages, and cell types. Collectively, the aging-related prognostic model shed light on HCC pathogenesis and held potential for optimizing the management of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Fang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lexi Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingya Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianghan Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haotian Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Zhang J, Ye ZW, Chakraborty P, Luo Z, Culpepper J, Aslam M, Zhang L, Johansson K, Haeggström JZ, Xu J, Olsson M, Townsend DM, Mehrotra S, Morgenstern R, Tew KD. Microsomal glutathione transferase 1 controls metastasis and therapeutic response in melanoma. Pharmacol Res 2023; 196:106899. [PMID: 37648102 PMCID: PMC10623471 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
While recent targeted and immunotherapies in malignant melanoma are encouraging, most patients acquire resistance, implicating a need to identify additional drug targets to improve outcomes. Recently, attention has been given to pathways that regulate redox homeostasis, especially the lipid peroxidase pathway that protects cells against ferroptosis. Here we identify microsomal glutathione S-transferase 1 (MGST1), a non-selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase, as highly expressed in malignant and drug resistant melanomas and as a specific determinant of metastatic spread and therapeutic sensitivity. Loss of MGST1 in mouse and human melanoma enhanced cellular oxidative stress, and diminished glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and pentose phosphate pathway. Gp100 activated pmel-1 T cells killed more Mgst1 KD than control melanoma cells and KD cells were more sensitive to cytotoxic anticancer drugs and ferroptotic cell death. When compared to control, mice bearing Mgst1 KD B16 tumors had more CD8+ T cell infiltration with reduced expression of inhibitory receptors and increased cytokine response, large reduction of lung metastases and enhanced survival. Targeting MGST1 alters the redox balance and limits metastases in melanoma, enhancing the therapeutic index for chemo- and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States.
| | - Zhi-Wei Ye
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Paramita Chakraborty
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Zhenwu Luo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - John Culpepper
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Muhammad Aslam
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Leilei Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | | | - Jesper Z Haeggström
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Divisions of Biochemistry and Chemisty 2, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum 9A, 17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jianqiang Xu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Panjin Institute of Industrial Technology (PIIT), Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Magnus Olsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Division of Biochemical Toxicology, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Danyelle M Townsend
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Shikhar Mehrotra
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Ralf Morgenstern
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Division of Biochemical Toxicology, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kenneth D Tew
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States.
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12
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Ta N, Jiang X, Zhang Y, Wang H. Ferroptosis as a promising therapeutic strategy for melanoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1252567. [PMID: 37795022 PMCID: PMC10546212 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1252567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma (MM) is the most common and deadliest type of skin cancer and is associated with high mortality rates across all races and ethnicities. Although present treatment options combined with surgery provide short-term clinical benefit in patients and early diagnosis of non-metastatic MM significantly increases the probability of survival, no efficacious treatments are available for MM. The etiology and pathogenesis of MM are complex. Acquired drug resistance is associated with a pool prognosis in patients with advanced-stage MM. Thus, these patients require new therapeutic strategies to improve their treatment response and prognosis. Multiple studies have revealed that ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic form of regulated cell death (RCD) characterized by iron dependant lipid peroxidation, can prevent the development of MM. Recent studies have indicated that targeting ferroptosis is a promising treatment strategy for MM. This review article summarizes the core mechanisms underlying the development of ferroptosis in MM cells and its potential role as a therapeutic target in MM. We emphasize the emerging types of small molecules inducing ferroptosis pathways by boosting the antitumor activity of BRAFi and immunotherapy and uncover their beneficial effects to treat MM. We also summarize the application of nanosensitizer-mediated unique dynamic therapeutic strategies and ferroptosis-based nanodrug targeting strategies as therapeutic options for MM. This review suggests that pharmacological induction of ferroptosis may be a potential therapeutic target for MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ta
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chifeng University, Chifeng, China
| | - Xiaodong Jiang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medicine, Chifeng University Health Science Center, Chifeng, China
| | - Yongchun Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Chifeng University, Chifeng, China
| | - Hongquan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin’s Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
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13
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Zeng F, Nijiati S, Tang L, Ye J, Zhou Z, Chen X. Ferroptosis Detection: From Approaches to Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202300379. [PMID: 36828775 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202300379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the intricate molecular machinery that governs ferroptosis and leveraging this accumulating knowledge could facilitate disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Emerging approaches for the in situ detection of the major regulators and biological events across cellular, tissue, and in living subjects provide a multiscale perspective for studying ferroptosis. Furthermore, advanced applications that integrate ferroptosis detection and the latest technologies hold tremendous promise in ferroptosis research. In this review, we first briefly summarize the mechanisms and key regulators underlying ferroptosis. Ferroptosis detection approaches are then presented to delineate their design, mechanisms of action, and applications. Special interest is placed on advanced ferroptosis applications that integrate multifunctional platforms. Finally, we discuss the prospects and challenges of ferroptosis detection approaches and applications, with the aim of providing a roadmap for the theranostic development of a broad range of ferroptosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fantian Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Sureya Nijiati
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Longguang Tang
- Affiliated Gaozhou People's Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong, 524023, China
| | - Jinmin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Zijian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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14
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Kobayashi H, Yoshimoto C, Matsubara S, Shigetomi H, Imanaka S. A comprehensive overview of recent developments on the mechanisms and pathways of ferroptosis in cancer: the potential implications for therapeutic strategies in ovarian cancer. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:547-566. [PMID: 37842240 PMCID: PMC10571061 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells adapt to environmental changes and alter their metabolic pathways to promote survival and proliferation. Metabolic reprogramming not only allows tumor cells to maintain a reduction-oxidation balance by rewiring resources for survival, but also causes nutrient addiction or metabolic vulnerability. Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death characterized by the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides. Excess iron in ovarian cancer amplifies free oxidative radicals and drives the Fenton reaction, thereby inducing ferroptosis. However, ovarian cancer is characterized by ferroptosis resistance. Therefore, the induction of ferroptosis is an exciting new targeted therapy for ovarian cancer. In this review, potential metabolic pathways targeting ferroptosis were summarized to promote anticancer effects, and current knowledge and future perspectives on ferroptosis for ovarian cancer therapy were discussed. Two therapeutic strategies were highlighted in this review: directly inducing the ferroptosis pathway and targeting metabolic vulnerabilities that affect ferroptosis. The overexpression of SLC7A11, a cystine/glutamate antiporter SLC7A11 (also known as xCT), is involved in the suppression of ferroptosis. xCT inhibition by ferroptosis inducers (e.g., erastin) can promote cell death when carbon as an energy source of glucose, glutamine, or fatty acids is abundant. On the contrary, xCT regulation has been reported to be highly dependent on the metabolic vulnerability. Drugs that target intrinsic metabolic vulnerabilities (e.g., GLUT1 inhibitors, PDK4 inhibitors, or glutaminase inhibitors) predispose cancer cells to death, which is triggered by decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate generation or increased reactive oxygen species accumulation. Therefore, therapeutic approaches that either directly inhibit the xCT pathway or target metabolic vulnerabilities may be effective in overcoming ferroptosis resistance. Real-time monitoring of changes in metabolic pathways may aid in selecting personalized treatment modalities. Despite the rapid development of ferroptosis-inducing agents, therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerability remain in their infancy. Thus, further studies must be conducted to comprehensively understand the precise mechanism linking metabolic rewiring with ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms.Clinic MayOne, Kashihara 634-0813, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
| | - Chiharu Yoshimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Prefecture General Medical Center, Nara 630-8581, Japan
| | - Sho Matsubara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
- Department of Medicine, Kei Oushin Clinic, Nishinomiya 663-8184, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Shigetomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Aska Ladies Clinic, Nara 634-0001, Japan
| | - Shogo Imanaka
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms.Clinic MayOne, Kashihara 634-0813, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
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15
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Offermans K, Jenniskens JCA, Simons CCJM, Samarska I, Fazzi GE, Smits KM, Schouten LJ, Weijenberg MP, Grabsch HI, van den Brandt PA. Association between adjuvant therapy and survival in colorectal cancer patients according to metabolic Warburg-subtypes. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:6271-6282. [PMID: 36723668 PMCID: PMC10356897 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04581-w] [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: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tumor location and tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage guide treatment decisions in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, patients with the same disease stage do not benefit equally from adjuvant therapy. Hence, there remains an urgent clinical need to identify prognostic and/or predictive biomarker(s) to personalize treatment decisions. In this exploratory study, we investigated whether our previously defined metabolic Warburg-subtypes can predict which CRC patients might derive survival benefit from adjuvant therapy. METHODS Information regarding treatment (surgery only: n = 1451; adjuvant radiotherapy: n = 82; or adjuvant chemotherapy: n = 260) and Warburg-subtype (Warburg-low: n = 485, -moderate: n = 641, or -high: n = 667) was available for 1793 CRC patients from the Netherlands Cohort Study (NLCS). Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression models were used to investigate survival benefit from adjuvant therapy compared to surgery-only for the different Warburg-subtypes. RESULTS Patients with Warburg-moderate CRC (HRCRC-specific 0.64; 95% CI 0.47-0.86, HRoverall 0.61; 95% CI 0.47-0.80), and possibly Warburg-high CRC (HRCRC-specific 0.86; 95% CI 0.65-1.14, HRoverall 0.82; 95% CI 0.64-1.05), had survival benefit from adjuvant therapy. No survival benefit was observed for patients with Warburg-low CRC (HRCRC-specific 1.07; 95% CI 0.76-1.52, HRoverall 0.95; 95% CI 0.70-1.30). There was a significant interaction between Warburg-subtype and adjuvant therapy for CRC-specific survival (p = 0.049) and overall survival (p = 0.035). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that Warburg-subtypes may predict survival benefit from adjuvant therapy in CRC patients. A survival benefit from adjuvant therapy was observed for patients with Warburg-moderate and possibly Warburg-high CRC, but not for patients with Warburg-low CRC. Future prospective studies are necessary to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Offermans
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Josien C A Jenniskens
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Colinda C J M Simons
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Iryna Samarska
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gregorio E Fazzi
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim M Smits
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Leo J Schouten
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Matty P Weijenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Heike I Grabsch
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Pathology and Data Analytics, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - Piet A van den Brandt
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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16
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Ma H, Chen X, Mo S, Zhang Y, Mao X, Chen J, Liu Y, Tong WM, Lu Z, Yu S, Chen J. Targeting N-glycosylation of 4F2hc mediated by glycosyltransferase B3GNT3 sensitizes ferroptosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:1988-2004. [PMID: 37479744 PMCID: PMC10406883 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01188-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a highly fatal malignancy partially due to the acquired alterations related to aberrant protein glycosylation that pathologically remodel molecular biological processes and protect PDAC cells from death. Ferroptosis driven by lethal lipid peroxidation provides a targetable vulnerability for PDAC. However, the crosstalk between glycosylation and ferroptosis remains unclear. Here, we identified 4F2hc, a subunit of the glutamate-cystine antiporter system Xc-, and its asparagine (N)-glycosylation is involved in PDAC ferroptosis by N- and O-linked glycoproteomics. Knockdown of SLC3A2 (gene name of 4F2hc) or blocking the N-glycosylation of 4F2hc potentiates ferroptosis sensitization of PDAC cells by impairing the activity of system Xc- manifested by a marked decrease in intracellular glutathione. Mechanistically, we found that the glycosyltransferase B3GNT3 catalyzes the glycosylation of 4F2hc, stabilizes the 4F2hc protein, and enhances the interaction between 4F2hc and xCT. Knockout of B3GNT3 or deletion of enzymatically active B3GNT3 sensitizes PDAC cells to ferroptosis. Reconstitution of 4F2hc-deficient cells with wildtype 4F2hc restores ferroptosis resistance while glycosylation-mutated 4F2hc does not. Additionally, upon combination with a ferroptosis inducer, treatment with the classical N-glycosylation inhibitor tunicamycin (TM) markedly triggers the overactivation of lipid peroxidation and enhances the sensitivity of PDAC cells to ferroptosis. Notably, we confirmed that genetic perturbation of SLC3A2 or combination treatment with TM significantly augments ferroptosis-induced inhibition of orthotopic PDAC. Clinically, high expression of 4F2hc and B3GNT3 contributes to the progression and poor survival of PDAC patients. Collectively, our findings reveal a previously unappreciated function of N-glycosylation of 4F2hc in ferroptosis and suggest that dual targeting the vulnerabilities of N-glycosylation and ferroptosis may be an innovative therapeutic strategy for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Ma
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xianlong Chen
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Shengwei Mo
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xinxin Mao
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jingci Chen
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wei-Min Tong
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhaohui Lu
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Shuangni Yu
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Benito-Lopez JJ, Marroquin-Muciño M, Perez-Medina M, Chavez-Dominguez R, Aguilar-Cazares D, Galicia-Velasco M, Lopez-Gonzalez JS. Partners in crime: The feedback loop between metabolic reprogramming and immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1101503. [PMID: 36713558 PMCID: PMC9879362 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1101503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and constantly changing cellular system composed of heterogeneous populations of tumor cells and non-transformed stromal cells, such as stem cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and innate and adaptive immune cells. Tumor, stromal, and immune cells consume available nutrients to sustain their proliferation and effector functions and, as a result of their metabolism, produce a wide array of by-products that gradually alter the composition of the milieu. The resulting depletion of essential nutrients and enrichment of by-products work together with other features of the hostile TME to inhibit the antitumor functions of immune cells and skew their phenotype to promote tumor progression. This review briefly describes the participation of the innate and adaptive immune cells in recognizing and eliminating tumor cells and how the gradual metabolic changes in the TME alter their antitumor functions. In addition, we discuss the overexpression of the immune checkpoints and their ligands as a result of nutrient deprivation and by-products accumulation, as well as the amplification of the metabolic alterations induced by the immune checkpoints, which creates an immunosuppressive feedback loop in the TME. Finally, the combination of metabolic and immune checkpoint inhibitors as a potential strategy to treat cancer and enhance the outcome of patients is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus J Benito-Lopez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Marroquin-Muciño
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Perez-Medina
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Quimioterapia Experimental, Departamento de Bioquimica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Chavez-Dominguez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Dolores Aguilar-Cazares
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miriam Galicia-Velasco
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jose S Lopez-Gonzalez
- Laboratorio de Investigacion en Cancer Pulmonar, Departamento de Enfermedades Cronico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias "Ismael Cosio Villegas", Mexico City, Mexico
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chi V Dang
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA.
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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19
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Yan C, Gao R, Gao C, Hong K, Cheng M, Liu X, Zhang Q, Zhang J. FDXR drives primary and endocrine-resistant tumor cell growth in ER+ breast cancer via CPT1A-mediated fatty acid oxidation. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1105117. [PMID: 37207154 PMCID: PMC10189134 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1105117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The majority of breast cancers (BCs) expressing estrogen receptor (ER) have shown endocrine resistance. Our previous study demonstrated that ferredoxin reductase (FDXR) promoted mitochondrial function and ER+ breast tumorigenesis. But the underlying mechanism is not clear. Methods Liquid chromatography (LC) tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)-based metabolite profiling was utilized to reveal the metabolites regulated by FDXR. RNA microarray was utilized to determine the potential downstream targets of FDXR. Seahorse XF24 analyzer was performed to analyze the FAO-mediated oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Q-PCR and western blotting assays were used to measure expression levels of FDXR and CPT1A. MTS, 2D colony formation and anchorage-independent growth assays were used to evaluate the effects of FDXR or drug treatments on tumor cell growth of primary or endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells. Results We found that depletion of FDXR inhibited fatty acid oxidation (FAO) by suppressing CPT1A expression. Endocrine treatment increased the expression levels of both FDXR and CPT1A. Further, we showed that depletion of FDXR or FAO inhibitor etomoxir treatment reduced primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth. Therapeutically, combining endocrine therapy with FAO inhibitor etomoxir synergistically inhibits primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth. Discussion We reveal that the FDXR-CPT1A-FAO signaling axis is essential for primary and endocrine-resistant breast cancer cell growth, thus providing a potential combinatory therapy against endocrine resistance in ER+ breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaojun Yan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ronghui Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuan Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Cheng
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Xiaojing Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Jing Zhang, ; Qing Zhang,
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Zhang, ; Qing Zhang,
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20
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Liu J, Zhang C, Zhang T, Chang CY, Wang J, Bazile L, Zhang L, Haffty BG, Hu W, Feng Z. Metabolic enzyme LDHA activates Rac1 GTPase as a noncanonical mechanism to promote cancer. Nat Metab 2022; 4:1830-1846. [PMID: 36536137 PMCID: PMC9794117 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00708-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The glycolytic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) is frequently overexpressed in cancer, which promotes glycolysis and cancer. The oncogenic effect of LDHA has been attributed to its glycolytic enzyme activity. Here we report an unexpected noncanonical oncogenic mechanism of LDHA; LDHA activates small GTPase Rac1 to promote cancer independently of its glycolytic enzyme activity. Mechanistically, LDHA interacts with the active form of Rac1, Rac1-GTP, to inhibit Rac1-GTP interaction with its negative regulator, GTPase-activating proteins, leading to Rac1 activation in cancer cells and mouse tissues. In clinical breast cancer specimens, LDHA overexpression is associated with higher Rac1 activity. Rac1 inhibition suppresses the oncogenic effect of LDHA. Combination inhibition of LDHA enzyme activity and Rac1 activity by small-molecule inhibitors displays a synergistic inhibitory effect on breast cancers with LDHA overexpression. These results reveal a critical oncogenic mechanism of LDHA and suggest a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancers with LDHA overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Cen Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Tianliang Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Chun-Yuan Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jianming Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Ludvinna Bazile
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
- Department of Pathology, Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro, NJ, USA
| | - Bruce G Haffty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Wenwei Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
| | - Zhaohui Feng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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21
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Li X, Yang Y, Zhang B, Lin X, Fu X, An Y, Zou Y, Wang JX, Wang Z, Yu T. Lactate metabolism in human health and disease. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:305. [PMID: 36050306 PMCID: PMC9434547 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01151-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 106.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The current understanding of lactate extends from its origins as a byproduct of glycolysis to its role in tumor metabolism, as identified by studies on the Warburg effect. The lactate shuttle hypothesis suggests that lactate plays an important role as a bridging signaling molecule that coordinates signaling among different cells, organs and tissues. Lactylation is a posttranslational modification initially reported by Professor Yingming Zhao’s research group in 2019. Subsequent studies confirmed that lactylation is a vital component of lactate function and is involved in tumor proliferation, neural excitation, inflammation and other biological processes. An indispensable substance for various physiological cellular functions, lactate plays a regulatory role in different aspects of energy metabolism and signal transduction. Therefore, a comprehensive review and summary of lactate is presented to clarify the role of lactate in disease and to provide a reference and direction for future research. This review offers a systematic overview of lactate homeostasis and its roles in physiological and pathological processes, as well as a comprehensive overview of the effects of lactylation in various diseases, particularly inflammation and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Li
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xiaotong Lin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266011, China
| | - Xiuxiu Fu
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yi An
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 1677 Wutaishan Road, Qingdao, 266555, China
| | - Yulin Zou
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Jian-Xun Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zhibin Wang
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, China.
| | - Tao Yu
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, China.
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22
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Lai HT, Naumova N, Marchais A, Gaspar N, Geoerger B, Brenner C. Insight into the interplay between mitochondria-regulated cell death and energetic metabolism in osteosarcoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:948097. [PMID: 36072341 PMCID: PMC9441498 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.948097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a pediatric malignant bone tumor that predominantly affects adolescent and young adults. It has high risk for relapse and over the last four decades no improvement of prognosis was achieved. It is therefore crucial to identify new drug candidates for OS treatment to combat drug resistance, limit relapse, and stop metastatic spread. Two acquired hallmarks of cancer cells, mitochondria-related regulated cell death (RCD) and metabolism are intimately connected. Both have been shown to be dysregulated in OS, making them attractive targets for novel treatment. Promising OS treatment strategies focus on promoting RCD by targeting key molecular actors in metabolic reprogramming. The exact interplay in OS, however, has not been systematically analyzed. We therefore review these aspects by synthesizing current knowledge in apoptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy in OS. Additionally, we outline an overview of mitochondrial function and metabolic profiles in different preclinical OS models. Finally, we discuss the mechanism of action of two novel molecule combinations currently investigated in active clinical trials: metformin and the combination of ADI-PEG20, Docetaxel and Gemcitabine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Toan Lai
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects métaboliques et systémiques de l’oncogénèse pour de nouvelles approches thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Nataliia Naumova
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects métaboliques et systémiques de l’oncogénèse pour de nouvelles approches thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Antonin Marchais
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Nathalie Gaspar
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Catherine Brenner
- CNRS, Institut Gustave Roussy, Aspects métaboliques et systémiques de l’oncogénèse pour de nouvelles approches thérapeutiques, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- *Correspondence: Catherine Brenner,
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23
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Deng S, Chen B, Huo J, Liu X. Therapeutic potential of NR4A1 in cancer: Focus on metabolism. Front Oncol 2022; 12:972984. [PMID: 36052242 PMCID: PMC9424640 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.972984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming is a vital hallmark of cancer, and it provides the necessary energy and biological materials to support the continuous proliferation and survival of tumor cells. NR4A1 is belonging to nuclear subfamily 4 (NR4A) receptors. NR4A1 plays diverse roles in many tumors, including melanoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and hepatocellular cancer, to regulate cell growth, apoptosis, metastasis. Recent reports shown that NR4A1 exhibits unique metabolic regulating effects in cancers. This receptor was first found to mediate glycolysis via key enzymes glucose transporters (GLUTs), hexokinase 2 (HK2), fructose phosphate kinase (PFK), and pyruvate kinase (PK). Then its functions extended to fatty acid synthesis by modulating CD36, fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), glutamine by Myc, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and hypoxia-inducible factors alpha (HIF-1α), respectively. In addition, NR4A1 is involving in amino acid metabolism and tumor immunity by metabolic processes. More and more NR4A1 ligands are found to participate in tumor metabolic reprogramming, suggesting that regulating NR4A1 by novel ligands is a promising approach to alter metabolism signaling pathways in cancer therapy. Basic on this, this review highlighted the diverse metabolic roles of NR4A1 in cancers, which provides vital references for the clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Deng
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Materials Science and Devices Institute, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiege Huo
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin Liu, ; Jiege Huo,
| | - Xin Liu
- Third School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Nanjing Lishui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin Liu, ; Jiege Huo,
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24
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Khan MW, Terry AR, Priyadarshini M, Ilievski V, Farooq Z, Guzman G, Cordoba-Chacon J, Ben-Sahra I, Wicksteed B, Layden BT. The hexokinase "HKDC1" interaction with the mitochondria is essential for liver cancer progression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:660. [PMID: 35902556 PMCID: PMC9334634 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04999-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer (LC) is the fourth leading cause of death from cancer malignancies. Recently, a putative fifth hexokinase, hexokinase domain containing 1 (HKDC1), was shown to have significant overexpression in LC compared to healthy liver tissue. Using a combination of in vitro and in vivo tools, we examined the role of HKDC1 in LC development and progression. Importantly, HKDC1 ablation stops LC development and progression via its action at the mitochondria by promoting metabolic reprogramming and a shift of glucose flux away from the TCA cycle. HKDC1 ablation leads to mitochondrial dysfunction resulting in less cellular energy, which cannot be compensated by enhanced glucose uptake. Moreover, we show that the interaction of HKDC1 with the mitochondria is essential for its role in LC progression, and without this interaction, mitochondrial dysfunction occurs. As HKDC1 is highly expressed in LC cells, but only to a minimal degree in hepatocytes under normal conditions, targeting HKDC1, specifically its interaction with the mitochondria, may represent a highly selective approach to target cancer cells in LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Wasim Khan
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Alexander R. Terry
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607 USA
| | - Medha Priyadarshini
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Vladimir Ilievski
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Zeenat Farooq
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Grace Guzman
- grid.412973.a0000 0004 0434 4425Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Cancer Center, University of Illinois Hospital and Health Science Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Jose Cordoba-Chacon
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Issam Ben-Sahra
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Barton Wicksteed
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Brian T. Layden
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA ,grid.280892.90000 0004 0419 4711Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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25
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Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death that is triggered by the toxic build-up of lipid peroxides on cellular membranes. In recent years, ferroptosis has garnered enormous interest in cancer research communities, partly because it is a unique cell death modality that is mechanistically and morphologically different from other forms of cell death, such as apoptosis, and therefore holds great potential for cancer therapy. In this Review, we summarize the current understanding of ferroptosis-inducing and ferroptosis defence mechanisms, dissect the roles and mechanisms of ferroptosis in tumour suppression and tumour immunity, conceptualize the diverse vulnerabilities of cancer cells to ferroptosis, and explore therapeutic strategies for targeting ferroptosis in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Lei
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Li Zhuang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Boyi Gan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
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26
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Serra M, Di Matteo M, Serneels J, Pal R, Cafarello ST, Lanza M, Sanchez-Martin C, Evert M, Castegna A, Calvisi DF, Mazzone M, Columbano A. Deletion of Lactate Dehydrogenase-A Impairs Oncogene-Induced Mouse Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 14:609-624. [PMID: 35714859 PMCID: PMC9307943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multistep process whereby abnormally proliferating cancer cells undergo extensive metabolic reprogramming. Metabolic alterations in hepatocarcinogenesis depend on the activation of specific oncogenes, thus partially explaining HCC heterogeneity. c-Myc oncogene overexpression, frequently observed in human HCCs, leads to a metabolic rewiring toward a Warburg phenotype and production of lactate, resulting in the acidification of the extracellular space, favoring the emergence of an immune-permissive tumor microenvironment. Here, we investigated whether Ldha genetic ablation interferes with metabolic reprogramming and HCC development in the mouse. METHODS We characterized the metabolic reprogramming in tumors induced in C57BL/6J mice hydrodynamically cotransfected with c-Myc and h-Ras. Using the same experimental model, we investigated the effect of Ldha inhibition-gained through the inducible and hepatocyte-specific Ldha knockout-on cancer cell metabolic reprogramming, number and size of HCC lesions, and tumor microenvironment alterations. RESULTS c-Myc/h-Ras-driven tumors display a striking glycolytic metabolism, suggesting a switch to a Warburg phenotype. The tumors also exhibited enhanced pentose phosphate pathway activity, the switch of glutamine to sustain glutathione synthesis instead of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and the impairment of oxidative phosphorylation. In addition, Ldha abrogation significantly hampered tumor number and size together with an evident inhibition of the Warburg-like metabolic feature and a remarkable increase of CD4+ lymphocytes compared with Ldha wild-type livers. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that Ldha deletion significantly impairs mouse HCC development and suggest lactate dehydrogenase as a potential target to enhance the efficacy of the current therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Di Matteo
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium,Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jens Serneels
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium,Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rajesh Pal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sarah Trusso Cafarello
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium,Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Martina Lanza
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carlos Sanchez-Martin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alessandra Castegna
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Leuven, Belgium,Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amedeo Columbano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Amedeo Columbano, PhD, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SP 8, Km 0.700, 09042, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy. fax: 070 666062.
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27
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Iannuccelli M, Lo Surdo P, Licata L, Castagnoli L, Cesareni G, Perfetto L. A Resource to Infer Molecular Paths Linking Cancer Mutations to Perturbation of Cell Metabolism. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:893256. [PMID: 35664677 PMCID: PMC9158333 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.893256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Some inherited or somatically-acquired gene variants are observed significantly more frequently in the genome of cancer cells. Although many of these cannot be confidently classified as driver mutations, they may contribute to shaping a cell environment that favours cancer onset and development. Understanding how these gene variants causally affect cancer phenotypes may help developing strategies for reverting the disease phenotype. Here we focus on variants of genes whose products have the potential to modulate metabolism to support uncontrolled cell growth. Over recent months our team of expert curators has undertaken an effort to annotate in the database SIGNOR 1) metabolic pathways that are deregulated in cancer and 2) interactions connecting oncogenes and tumour suppressors to metabolic enzymes. In addition, we refined a recently developed graph analysis tool that permits users to infer causal paths leading from any human gene to modulation of metabolic pathways. The tool grounds on a human signed and directed network that connects ∼8400 biological entities such as proteins and protein complexes via causal relationships. The network, which is based on more than 30,000 published causal links, can be downloaded from the SIGNOR website. In addition, as SIGNOR stores information on drugs or other chemicals targeting the activity of many of the genes in the network, the identification of likely functional paths offers a rational framework for exploring new therapeutic strategies that revert the disease phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Prisca Lo Surdo
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Luana Licata
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Castagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Cesareni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gianni Cesareni, ; Livia Perfetto,
| | - Livia Perfetto
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gianni Cesareni, ; Livia Perfetto,
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28
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Yue X, Wang J, Chang CY, Liu J, Yang X, Zhou F, Qiu X, Bhatt V, Guo JY, Su X, Zhang L, Feng Z, Hu W. Leukemia inhibitory factor drives glucose metabolic reprogramming to promote breast tumorigenesis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:370. [PMID: 35440095 PMCID: PMC9018736 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04820-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
LIF, a multifunctional cytokine, is frequently overexpressed in many types of solid tumors, including breast cancer, and plays an important role in promoting tumorigenesis. Currently, how LIF promotes tumorigenesis is not well-understood. Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer cells and a key contributor to cancer progression. However, the role of LIF in cancer metabolic reprogramming is unclear. In this study, we found that LIF increases glucose uptake and drives glycolysis, contributing to breast tumorigenesis. Blocking glucose uptake largely abolishes the promoting effect of LIF on breast tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, LIF overexpression enhances glucose uptake via activating the AKT/GLUT1 axis to promote glycolysis. Blocking the AKT signaling by shRNA or its inhibitors greatly inhibits glycolysis driven by LIF and largely abolishes the promoting effect of LIF on breast tumorigenesis. These results demonstrate an important role of LIF overexpression in glucose metabolism reprogramming in breast cancers, which contributes to breast tumorigenesis. This study also reveals an important mechanism underlying metabolic reprogramming of breast cancers, and identifies LIF and its downstream signaling as potential therapeutic targets for breast cancers, especially those with LIF overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuetian Yue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jianming Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Chun-Yuan Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Xue Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Fan Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Xia Qiu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Vrushank Bhatt
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jessie Yanxiang Guo
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Department of Chemical Biology, Rutgers Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Xiaoyang Su
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Metabolomics Shared Resource, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro, NJ, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Zhaohui Feng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
| | - Wenwei Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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29
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Hu J, Wang Z, Yang S, Lu Y, Li G. The edited UPF1 is correlated with elevated asparagine synthetase in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:3713-3720. [PMID: 35129766 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07211-9] [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: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) is a malignant disorder and is the most common pancreatic cancer type. The malignant cells depend on the uptake of asparagine (Asn) for growth. The synthesis of Asn occurs through the enzyme asparagine synthetase (ASNS). Interestingly, ASNS is known as is direct target of nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD). We have previously reported that NMD major factor UPF1 mutations in the pancreatic tumors. However, the relationship between NMD and the level of ASNS is unknown. METHOD We constructed point mutations by site-specific mutagenesis. To evaluate NMD magnitude, we assessed the expression ratio of an exogenously expressed wild-type and mutated β-globin mRNA with N39 allele, and five known NMD targets. Then, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), RT-qPCR and western bolt to determine RNA or protein levels, after knockdown of endogenous UPF1 by small RNA interference in the cells. RESULTS An RNA editing event (c.3101 A > G) at UPF1 transcripts resulting in an Asparagine (p.1034) changed to a Serine is found in one primary PDAC patient. The edited UPF1 increases the ability of degrading of NMD provoking transcripts, such as β-globin mRNA with N39 allele and 5 out of 5 known endogenous NMD substrate mRNAs, including ASNS. In addition, ASNS mRNA is subjected to NMD degradation by virtue of its possessing uORFs at the 5'UTR. A reduction of endogenous ASNS RNA and the increased protein expression level is found either in the PDAC patient or in the cells with edited UPF1 at c.3101 A > G relative to the controls. CONCLUSIONS This edited UPF1 found in the PDAC results in hyperactivated NMD, which is tightly correlation to elevated expression level of ASNS. The targeting of knockdown of ASNS may improve the antitumor potency in PDACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayang Hu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Shunchao Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yanjun Lu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Lemberg KM, Gori SS, Tsukamoto T, Rais R, Slusher BS. Clinical development of metabolic inhibitors for oncology. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e148550. [PMID: 34981784 PMCID: PMC8718137 DOI: 10.1172/jci148550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic inhibitors have been used in oncology for decades, dating back to antimetabolites developed in the 1940s. In the past 25 years, there has been increased recognition of metabolic derangements in tumor cells leading to a resurgence of interest in targeting metabolism. More recently there has been recognition that drugs targeting tumor metabolism also affect the often acidic, hypoxic, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and non-tumor cell populations within it, including immune cells. Here we review small-molecule metabolic inhibitors currently in clinical development for oncology applications. For each agent, we evaluate the preclinical studies demonstrating antitumor and TME effects and review ongoing clinical trials. The goal of this Review is to provide an overview of the landscape of metabolic inhibitors in clinical development for oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Lemberg
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Oncology and The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | | | - Takashi Tsukamoto
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
| | - Rana Rais
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
| | - Barbara S. Slusher
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery
- Department of Oncology and The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences
- Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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31
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Sharma ND, Keewan E, Matlawska-Wasowska K. Metabolic Reprogramming and Cell Adhesion in Acute Leukemia Adaptation to the CNS Niche. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:767510. [PMID: 34957100 PMCID: PMC8703109 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.767510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Involvement of the Central Nervous System (CNS) in acute leukemia confers poor prognosis and lower overall survival. Existing CNS-directed therapies are associated with a significant risk of short- or long-term toxicities. Leukemic cells can metabolically adapt and survive in the microenvironment of the CNS. The supporting role of the CNS microenvironment in leukemia progression and dissemination has not received sufficient attention. Understanding the mechanism by which leukemic cells survive in the nutrient-poor and oxygen-deprived CNS microenvironment will lead to the development of more specific and less toxic therapies. Here, we review the current literature regarding the roles of metabolic reprogramming in leukemic cell adhesion and survival in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitesh D Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Esra'a Keewan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Ksenia Matlawska-Wasowska
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
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32
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Patel S, Globisch C, Pulugu P, Kumar P, Jain A, Shard A. Novel imidazopyrimidines-based molecules induce tetramerization of tumor pyruvate kinase M2 and exhibit potent antiproliferative profile. Eur J Pharm Sci 2021; 170:106112. [PMID: 34971746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2021.106112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Discovery of novel and potent lead molecules for the specific therapeutic targets by de novo drug design is still in infancy. Here, we disclose the unprecedented development of imidazopyri(mi)dine-based tumor pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) modulators by subsequent link and grow strategy. The most potent modulator 15n acts as a PKM2 activator with an AC50 of 90 nM, with considerable cancer cell-selectivity and membrane-permeability. NMR metabolomics studies also revealed that treatment with 15n results in diminution in lactate concentrations in MCF-7 cells. 15n binds to a previously reported site at PKM2 adjacent to the interface of two monomers. In molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies, it was observed that 15n stabilizes the PKM2 at the dimeric interface, assisting in the formation of a biologically active tetramer conformation. 15n was also screened on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines grown on 3-D scaffolds, and the results exhibited better anticancer potential compared to control, paving the way for future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagarkumar Patel
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj-Basan Road, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Priyanka Pulugu
- Department of Medical Devices National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj-Basan Road, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Prasoon Kumar
- Department of Medical Devices National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj-Basan Road, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Alok Jain
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj-Basan Road, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India; Department of Bioengineering, BIT Mesra, Ranchi, India.
| | - Amit Shard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj-Basan Road, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India.
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33
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Iessi E, Vona R, Cittadini C, Matarrese P. Targeting the Interplay between Cancer Metabolic Reprogramming and Cell Death Pathways as a Viable Therapeutic Path. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121942. [PMID: 34944758 PMCID: PMC8698563 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In cancer cells, metabolic adaptations are often observed in terms of nutrient absorption, biosynthesis of macromolecules, and production of energy necessary to meet the needs of the tumor cell such as uncontrolled proliferation, dissemination, and acquisition of resistance to death processes induced by both unfavorable environmental conditions and therapeutic drugs. Many oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have a significant effect on cellular metabolism, as there is a close relationship between the pathways activated by these genes and the various metabolic options. The metabolic adaptations observed in cancer cells not only promote their proliferation and invasion, but also their survival by inducing intrinsic and acquired resistance to various anticancer agents and to various forms of cell death, such as apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. In this review we analyze the main metabolic differences between cancer and non-cancer cells and how these can affect the various cell death pathways, effectively determining the susceptibility of cancer cells to therapy-induced death. Targeting the metabolic peculiarities of cancer could represent in the near future an innovative therapeutic strategy for the treatment of those tumors whose metabolic characteristics are known.
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Stine ZE, Schug ZT, Salvino JM, Dang CV. Targeting cancer metabolism in the era of precision oncology. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 21:141-162. [PMID: 34862480 PMCID: PMC8641543 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00339-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 396] [Impact Index Per Article: 132.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
One hundred years have passed since Warburg discovered alterations in cancer metabolism, more than 70 years since Sidney Farber introduced anti-folates that transformed the treatment of childhood leukaemia, and 20 years since metabolism was linked to oncogenes. However, progress in targeting cancer metabolism therapeutically in the past decade has been limited. Only a few metabolism-based drugs for cancer have been successfully developed, some of which are in - or en route to - clinical trials. Strategies for targeting the intrinsic metabolism of cancer cells often did not account for the metabolism of non-cancer stromal and immune cells, which have pivotal roles in tumour progression and maintenance. By considering immune cell metabolism and the clinical manifestations of inborn errors of metabolism, it may be possible to isolate undesirable off-tumour, on-target effects of metabolic drugs during their development. Hence, the conceptual framework for drug design must consider the metabolic vulnerabilities of non-cancer cells in the tumour immune microenvironment, as well as those of cancer cells. In this Review, we cover the recent developments, notable milestones and setbacks in targeting cancer metabolism, and discuss the way forward for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Chi V Dang
- The Wistar Institute Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research New York, New York, NY, USA.
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35
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Jain S, Hu C, Kluza J, Ke W, Tian G, Giurgiu M, Bleilevens A, Campos AR, Charbono A, Stickeler E, Maurer J, Holinski-Feder E, Vaisburg A, Bureik M, Luo G, Marchetti P, Cheng Y, Wolf DA. Metabolic targeting of cancer by a ubiquinone uncompetitive inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 29:436-450.e15. [PMID: 34852219 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
SMIP004-7 is a small molecule inhibitor of mitochondrial respiration with selective in vivo anti-cancer activity through an as-yet unknown molecular target. We demonstrate here that SMIP004-7 targets drug-resistant cancer cells with stem-like features by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration complex I (NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase, complex I [CI]). Instead of affecting the quinone-binding site targeted by most CI inhibitors, SMIP004-7 and its cytochrome P450-dependent activated metabolite(s) have an uncompetitive mechanism of inhibition involving a distinct N-terminal region of catalytic subunit NDUFS2 that leads to rapid disassembly of CI. SMIP004-7 and an improved chemical analog selectively engage NDUFS2 in vivo to inhibit the growth of triple-negative breast cancer transplants, a response mediated at least in part by boosting CD4+ and CD8+ T cell-mediated immune surveillance. Thus, SMIP004-7 defines an emerging class of ubiquinone uncompetitive CI inhibitors for cell autonomous and microenvironmental metabolic targeting of mitochondrial respiration in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Jain
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92024, USA
| | - Cheng Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Stress Biology and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang'An South Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Jerome Kluza
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, UMR9020 - UMR-S 1277 - Canther - Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Wei Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Stress Biology and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang'An South Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Guiyou Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Stress Biology and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang'An South Road, Xiamen, China
| | | | - Andreas Bleilevens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Adriana Charbono
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92024, USA
| | - Elmar Stickeler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jochen Maurer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Elke Holinski-Feder
- MGZ Medical Genetics Center Munich, 80335 Munich, Germany; Department of Medicine IV, Campus Innenstadt, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Arkadii Vaisburg
- Crocus Laboratories Inc., Montreal, QC, Canada; NuChem Sciences Inc., Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Matthias Bureik
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Guangcheng Luo
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Philippe Marchetti
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut pour la Recherche sur le Cancer de Lille, UMR9020 - UMR-S 1277 - Canther - Cancer Heterogeneity, Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, 59000 Lille, France; Centre de Bio-Pathologie, Banque de Tissus, CHU of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Yabin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Stress Biology and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang'An South Road, Xiamen, China.
| | - Dieter A Wolf
- State Key Laboratory of Stress Biology and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Target Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiang'An South Road, Xiamen, China; MGZ Medical Genetics Center Munich, 80335 Munich, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany.
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36
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Offermans K, Jenniskens JC, Simons CC, Samarska I, Fazzi GE, Smits KM, Schouten LJ, Weijenberg MP, Grabsch HI, van den Brandt PA. Expression of proteins associated with the Warburg-effect and survival in colorectal cancer. JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY CLINICAL RESEARCH 2021; 8:169-180. [PMID: 34791830 PMCID: PMC8822385 DOI: 10.1002/cjp2.250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has suggested that the expression of proteins related to the Warburg effect may have prognostic value in colorectal cancer (CRC), but results remain inconsistent. Our objective was to investigate the relationship between Warburg-subtypes and patient survival in a large population-based series of CRC patients. In the present study, we investigated the expression of six proteins related to the Warburg effect (LDHA, GLUT1, MCT4, PKM2, p53, PTEN) by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays (TMAs) from 2,399 incident CRC patients from the prospective Netherlands Cohort Study. Expression levels of the six proteins were combined into a pathway-based sum-score and patients were categorised into three Warburg-subtypes (low/moderate/high). The associations between Warburg-subtypes and CRC-specific and overall survival were investigated using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression models. CRC patients were classified as Warburg-low (n = 695, 29.0%), Warburg-moderate (n = 858, 35.8%) or Warburg-high (n = 841, 35.1%). Patients with Warburg-high CRC had the poorest CRC-specific [hazard ratio (HR) 1.17; 95% CI 1.00-1.38] and overall survival (HR 1.19; 95% CI 1.05-1.35), independent of known prognostic factors. In stratified analyses, this was particularly true for patients with tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) stage III CRC (HRCRC-specific 1.45; 95% CI 1.10-1.92 and HRoverall 1.47; 95% CI 1.15-1.87), and cancers located in the rectum (HRoverall 1.56; 95% CI 1.15-2.13). To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the prognostic value of immunohistochemistry-based Warburg-subtypes in CRC. Our data suggest that Warburg-subtypes are related to potentially important differences in CRC survival. Further research is required to validate our findings and to investigate the potential clinical utility of these Warburg-subtypes in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Offermans
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Josien Ca Jenniskens
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Colinda Cjm Simons
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Iryna Samarska
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gregorio E Fazzi
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim M Smits
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Leo J Schouten
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Matty P Weijenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Heike I Grabsch
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Pathology and Data Analytics, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Piet A van den Brandt
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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37
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Kwak D, Hammarström LGJ, Haraldsson M, Ernfors P. Glioblastoma cytotoxicity conferred through dual disruption of endolysosomal homeostasis by Vacquinol-1. Neurooncol Adv 2021; 3:vdab152. [PMID: 34765974 PMCID: PMC8577523 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab152] [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] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increased membrane trafficking is observed in numerous cancer types, including glioblastoma. Targeting the oncogenic driven acquired alterations in membrane trafficking by synthetic cationic amphiphilic small molecules has recently been shown to induce death of glioblastoma cells, although the molecular targets are unknown. Methods The mechanism of action of the cationic amphiphilic drug Vacquinol-1 (Vacq1)-induced cytotoxicity was investigated using cell biology, biochemistry, functional experiments, chemical biology, unbiased antibody-based post-translation modification profiling, and mass spectrometry-based chemical proteomic analysis on patient-derived glioblastoma cells. Results Vacq1 induced two types of abnormal endolysosomal vesicles, enlarged vacuoles and acidic vesicle organelles (AVOs). Mechanistically, enlarged vacuoles were formed by the impairment of lysosome reformation through the direct interaction and inhibition of calmodulin (CaM) by Vacq1, while AVO formation was induced by Vacq1 accumulation and acidification in the endosomal compartments through its activation of the v-ATPase. As a consequence of v-ATPase activation, cellular ATP consumption markedly increased, causing cellular energy shortage and cytotoxicity. This effect of Vacq1 was exacerbated by its inhibitory effects on calmodulin, causing lysosomal depletion and a failure of acidic vesicle organelle clearance. Conclusion Our study identifies the targets of Vacq1 and the mechanisms underlying its selective cytotoxicity in glioblastoma cells. The dual function of Vacq1 sets in motion a glioblastoma-specific vicious cycle of ATP consumption resulting in cellular energy crisis and cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongoh Kwak
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars G J Hammarström
- Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Haraldsson
- Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Patrik Ernfors
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Liu J, Niu N, Li X, Zhang X, Sood AK. The life cycle of polyploid giant cancer cells and dormancy in cancer: Opportunities for novel therapeutic interventions. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 81:132-144. [PMID: 34670140 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent data suggest that most genotoxic agents in cancer therapy can lead to shock of genome and increase in cell size, which leads whole genome duplication or multiplication, formation of polyploid giant cancer cells, activation of an early embryonic program, and dedifferentiation of somatic cells. This process is achieved via the giant cell life cycle, a recently proposed mechanism for malignant transformation of somatic cells. Increase in both cell size and ploidy allows cells to completely or partially restructures the genome and develop into a blastocyst-like structure, similar to that observed in blastomere-stage embryogenesis. Although blastocyst-like structures with reprogrammed genome can generate resistant or metastatic daughter cells or benign cells of different lineages, they also acquired ability to undergo embryonic diapause, a reversible state of suspended embryonic development in which cells enter dormancy for survival in response to environmental stress. Therapeutic agents can activate this evolutionarily conserved developmental program, and when cells awaken from embryonic diapause, this leads to recurrence or metastasis. Understanding of the key mechanisms that regulate the different stages of the giant cell life cycle offers new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsong Liu
- Departments of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Departments of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Na Niu
- Departments of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Departments of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Departments of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Anil K Sood
- Departments of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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39
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Wang X, Yung MMH, Sharma R, Chen F, Poon YT, Lam WY, Li B, Ngan HYS, Chan KKL, Chan DW. Epigenetic Silencing of miR-33b Promotes Peritoneal Metastases of Ovarian Cancer by Modulating the TAK1/FASN/CPT1A/NF-κB Axis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194795. [PMID: 34638280 PMCID: PMC8508465 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritoneal metastases are frequently found in high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSOC) patients and are commonly associated with a poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex milieu that plays a critical role in epigenetic alterations driving tumor development and metastatic progression. However, the impact of epigenetic alterations on metastatic ovarian cancer cells in the harsh peritoneal microenvironment remains incompletely understood. Here, we identified that miR-33b is frequently silenced by promoter hypermethylation in HGSOC cells derived from metastatic omental tumor tissues. Enforced expression of miR-33b abrogates the oncogenic properties of ovarian cancer cells cocultured in omental conditioned medium (OCM), which mimics the ascites microenvironment, and in vivo tumor growth. Of note, restoration of miR-33b inhibited OCM-upregulated de novo lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation in ovarian cancer cells, indicating that miR-33b may play a novel tumor suppressor role in the lipid-mediated oncogenic properties of metastatic ovarian cancer cells found in the omentum. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that miR-33b directly targets transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), thereby suppressing the activities of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A) in modulating lipid metabolic activities and simultaneously inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-κB signaling to govern the oncogenic behaviors of ovarian cancer cells. Thus, our data suggest that a lipid-rich microenvironment may cause epigenetic silencing of miR-33b, which negatively modulates ovarian cancer peritoneal metastases, at least in part, by suppressing TAK1/FASN/CPT1A/NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
| | - Mingo M. H. Yung
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences Proteomics and Metabolomics Core, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Fushun Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
| | - Ying-Tung Poon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
| | - Wai-Yip Lam
- Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Ltd., 1/F Building 20E, Phase 3, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China; (W.-Y.L.); (B.L.)
| | - Benjamin Li
- Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Ltd., 1/F Building 20E, Phase 3, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong, China; (W.-Y.L.); (B.L.)
| | - Hextan Y. S. Ngan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
| | - Karen K. L. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
- Correspondence: (K.K.L.C.); (D.W.C.)
| | - David W. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (X.W.); (M.M.H.Y.); (F.C.); (Y.-T.P.); (H.Y.S.N.)
- Correspondence: (K.K.L.C.); (D.W.C.)
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Udono H, Nishida M. Pharmacological effects on anaplerotic pathways alters the metabolic landscape in the tumor microenvironment, causing unpredictable, sustained antitumor immunity. Int Immunol 2021; 34:133-140. [PMID: 34491338 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxab067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To achieve sustained antitumor immunity, tumor-infiltrating effector CD8 T lymphocytes (CD8 TILs) must be able to produce cytokines, including IFNγ and proliferate robustly within the local tumor tissue upon antigen recognition. IFNγ production by CD8 TILs depends on glycolysis, whereas their proliferation additionally requires oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos). The level of OxPhos, and hence the oxygen consumption rate, depends on mitochondrial biogenesis and requires the loading of metabolic precursors into the tricarboxylic acid cycle to keep it functioning. This is referred to as anaplerosis. Recent advances in the field of immuno-metabolism have shown the impact of pharmacological agents on anaplerotic pathways, resulting in metabolic downregulation in tumor cells; in contrast, the agents trigger sustained antitumor immunity by upregulating both glycolysis and OxPhos in CD8 TILs. The opposing effects of pharmacological inhibition (and/or activation) on anaplerosis in tumor cells and CD8 TILs are unpredictable. Careful dissection of the underlying mechanism might confer important knowledge, helping us to step into a new era for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiichiro Udono
- Department of Immunology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Mikako Nishida
- Department of Immunology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Burns JE, Hurst CD, Knowles MA, Phillips RM, Allison SJ. The Warburg effect as a therapeutic target for bladder cancers and intratumoral heterogeneity in associated molecular targets. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:3822-3834. [PMID: 34181805 PMCID: PMC8409428 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide. For muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), treatment includes radical cystectomy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy; however, the outcome is generally poor. For non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), tumor recurrence is common. There is an urgent need for more effective and less harmful therapeutic approaches. Here, bladder cancer cell metabolic reprogramming to rely on aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect) and expression of associated molecular therapeutic targets by bladder cancer cells of different stages and grades, and in freshly resected clinical tissue, is investigated. Importantly, analyses indicate that the Warburg effect is a feature of both NMIBCs and MIBCs. In two in vitro inducible epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) bladder cancer models, EMT stimulation correlated with increased lactate production, the end product of aerobic glycolysis. Protein levels of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDH-A), which promotes pyruvate enzymatic reduction to lactate, were higher in most bladder cancer cell lines (compared with LDH-B, which catalyzes the reverse reaction), but the levels did not closely correlate with aerobic glycolysis rates. Although LDH-A is expressed in normal urothelial cells, LDH-A knockdown by RNAi selectively induced urothelial cancer cell apoptotic death, whereas normal cells were unaffected-identifying LDH-A as a cancer-selective therapeutic target for bladder cancers. LDH-A and other potential therapeutic targets (MCT4 and GLUT1) were expressed in patient clinical specimens; however, positive staining varied in different areas of sections and with distance from a blood vessel. This intratumoral heterogeneity has important therapeutic implications and indicates the possibility of tumor cell metabolic coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie E. Burns
- Leeds Institute of Medical ResearchSt. James’ University HospitalUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Carolyn D. Hurst
- Leeds Institute of Medical ResearchSt. James’ University HospitalUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Margaret A. Knowles
- Leeds Institute of Medical ResearchSt. James’ University HospitalUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | | | - Simon J. Allison
- Leeds Institute of Medical ResearchSt. James’ University HospitalUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
- School of Applied SciencesUniversity of HuddersfieldHuddersfieldUK
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Cinobufagin-induced DNA damage response activates G 2/M checkpoint and apoptosis to cause selective cytotoxicity in cancer cells. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:446. [PMID: 34425836 PMCID: PMC8381584 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02150-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Processed extracts from toad skin and parotoid gland have long been used to treat various illnesses including cancer in many Asian countries. Recent studies have uncovered a family of bufadienolides as the responsible pharmacological compounds, and the two major molecules, cinobufagin and bufalin, have been shown to possess robust antitumor activity; however, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by DCFH-DA staining and flow cytometry, and DNA damage was analyzed by immunofluorescent staining and the alkaline comet assay. Cytotoxicity was measured by MTT as well as colony formation assays, and cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. In addition, apoptosis was further characterized by TUNEL and mitochondrial membrane potential assays. Results Here we showed that sublethal doses of cinobufagin suppressed the viability of many cancer but not noncancerous cell lines. This tumor-selective cytotoxicity was preceded by a rapid, cancer-specific increase in cellular ROS and was significantly reduced by the ROS inhibitor N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), indicating oxidative stress as the primary source of cinobufagin-induced cancer cell toxicity. Sublethal cinobufagin-induced ROS overload resulted in oxidative DNA damage and intense replication stress in cancer cells, leading to strong DNA damage response (DDR) signaling. Subsequent phosphorylation of CDC25C and stabilization of p53 downstream of DDR resulted in activation of the G2/M checkpoint followed by induction of apoptosis. These data indicate that cinobufagin suppresses cancer cell viability via DDR-mediated G2 arrest and apoptosis. Conclusion As elevated oxidative pressure is shared by most cancer cells that renders them sensitive to further oxidative insult, these studies suggest that nontoxic doses of cinobufagin can be used to exploit a cancer vulnerability for induction of cancer-specific cytotoxicity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary materials available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02150-0.
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Koppula P, Olszewski K, Zhang Y, Kondiparthi L, Liu X, Lei G, Das M, Fang B, Poyurovsky MV, Gan B. KEAP1 deficiency drives glucose dependency and sensitizes lung cancer cells and tumors to GLUT inhibition. iScience 2021; 24:102649. [PMID: 34151236 PMCID: PMC8193145 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells can create metabolic liabilities. KEAP1-mutant lung cancer is refractory to most current therapies. Here we show that KEAP1 deficiency promotes glucose dependency in lung cancer cells, and KEAP1-mutant/deficient lung cancer cells are more vulnerable to glucose deprivation than their WT counterparts. Mechanistically, KEAP1 inactivation in lung cancer cells induces constitutive activation of NRF2 transcription factor and aberrant expression of NRF2 target cystine transporter SLC7A11; under glucose limitation, high cystine uptake in KEAP1-inactivated lung cancer cells stimulates toxic intracellular disulfide buildup, NADPH depletion, and cell death, which can be rescued by genetic ablation of NRF2-SLC7A11 axis or treatments inhibiting disulfide accumulation. Finally, we show that KEAP1-inactivated lung cancer cells or xenograft tumors are sensitive to glucose transporter inhibitor. Together, our results reveal that KEAP1 deficiency induces glucose dependency in lung cancer cells and uncover a therapeutically relevant metabolic liability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranavi Koppula
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Yilei Zhang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Xiaoguang Liu
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Guang Lei
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Molina Das
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bingliang Fang
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Boyi Gan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Chen D, Chu B, Yang X, Liu Z, Jin Y, Kon N, Rabadan R, Jiang X, Stockwell BR, Gu W. iPLA2β-mediated lipid detoxification controls p53-driven ferroptosis independent of GPX4. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3644. [PMID: 34131139 PMCID: PMC8206155 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23902-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we identify iPLA2β as a critical regulator for p53-driven ferroptosis upon reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced stress. The calcium-independent phospholipase iPLA2β is known to cleave acyl tails from the glycerol backbone of lipids and release oxidized fatty acids from phospholipids. We found that iPLA2β-mediated detoxification of peroxidized lipids is sufficient to suppress p53-driven ferroptosis upon ROS-induced stress, even in GPX4-null cells. Moreover, iPLA2β is overexpressed in human cancers; inhibition of endogenous iPLA2β sensitizes tumor cells to p53-driven ferroptosis and promotes p53-dependent tumor suppression in xenograft mouse models. These results demonstrate that iPLA2β acts as a major ferroptosis repressor in a GPX4-independent manner. Notably, unlike GPX4, loss of iPLA2β has no obvious effect on normal development or cell viability in normal tissues but iPLA2β plays an essential role in regulating ferroptosis upon ROS-induced stress. Thus, our study suggests that iPLA2β is a promising therapeutic target for activating ferroptosis-mediated tumor suppression without serious toxicity concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delin Chen
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Bo Chu
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Xin Yang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Zhaoqi Liu
- Program for Mathematical Genomics, Departments of Systems Biology and Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ying Jin
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ning Kon
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Raul Rabadan
- Program for Mathematical Genomics, Departments of Systems Biology and Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Xuejun Jiang
- Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Brent R Stockwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Wei Gu
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, and Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, and Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center,Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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Salazar J, Le A. The Heterogeneity of Liver Cancer Metabolism. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1311:127-136. [PMID: 34014539 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-65768-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death around the world. Histologically, it can be divided into two major groups, hepatocellular carcinoma (75% of all liver cancer) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (15% of all liver cancer) [1, 2]. Primary liver cancer usually happens in liver disease or cirrhosis patients [1], and the risk factors for developing HCC depend on the etiology [3] and the country of provenance [1]. There is an urgent need for an accurate diagnostic test given the high proportion of false positives and false negatives for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a common HCC biomarker [4]. Due to often being diagnosed in advanced stages, HCCrelated deaths per year have doubled since 1999 [3]. With the use of metabolomics technologies [5], the aberrant metabolism characteristics of cancer tissues can be discovered and exploited for the new biomarkers and new therapies to treat HCC [6, 7].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Le
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Wang X, Zhao Y, Shi L, Hu Y, Song G, Cai K, Li M, Luo Z. Tumor-Targeted Disruption of Lactate Transport with Reactivity-Reversible Nanocatalysts to Amplify Oxidative Damage. SMALL 2021; 17:e2100130. [PMID: 33811464 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202100130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Nanocatalytic tumor therapy is an emerging antitumor option that employs catalytically-active inorganic nanostructures to produce tumor-damaging reactive oxygen species. However, initiation of nanocatalytic reactions in the tumor intracellular environment is a challenge due to the reliance on acidic pH. By exploiting the pH-selective multifaceted catalytic activities of Prussian blue-based nanomaterials (PBNM) as well as the hyperglycolysis characteristics of tumors, it is demonstrated that blocking the monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4)-mediated lactate effusion in tumor cells can reverse the pH gradient across the tumor cell membrane and cause rapid intracellular acidification as well as neutralization of the extracellular compartment, thus creating vulnerabilities for PBNM-based nanocatalytic therapies in situ while suppressing tumor stemness/metastasis in vivo. For this purpose, MCT4-inhibiting siRNAs are incorporated into reactivity-switchable PBNM-based nanocatalysts to initiate hydroxyl radical production. Meanwhile, β-lapachone, a clinically-approved drug with H2 O2 -generating capabilities, is also integrated to sustain the nanocatalytic process. In contrast, the nanocatalyst shows no apparent toxicity to normal cells due to its catalase-like activities under neutral pH. This treatment strategy can inhibit tumor growth in mice at optimal safety as well as to suppress the cancer cell stemness and lung metastasis, suggesting the clinical translational potential of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Youbo Zhao
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Lei Shi
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Guanbin Song
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Kaiyong Cai
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Menghuan Li
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Zhong Luo
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
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Bai C, Wang H, Dong D, Li T, Yu Z, Guo J, Zhou W, Li D, Yan R, Wang L, Wang Z, Li Y, Ren L. Urea as a By-Product of Ammonia Metabolism Can Be a Potential Serum Biomarker of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:650748. [PMID: 33869206 PMCID: PMC8047217 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.650748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is highly malignant; nearly half of the new cases and deaths are in China. The poor prognosis of HCC is mainly due to late diagnosis; many new biomarkers have been developed for HCC diagnosis. However, few markers are quickly translated into clinical practice; early and differential diagnosis of HCC from cirrhosis and/or hepatitis is still a clinical challenge. Metabolomics and biochemical methods were used to reveal specific serum biomarkers of HCC. Most of the elevated metabolites in HCC and HBV patients were overlapped compared with controls. Urea was the specifically elevated serum biomarker of HCC patients. Moreover, urea combined with AFP and CEA can improve the sensitivity of HCC diagnosis. The plasma ammonia of HCC patients was significantly higher than healthy controls. Co-culture cell model revealed normal liver cells cooperated with cancer cells to metabolize ammonia into urea. The urea metabolism in cancer cells marginally depended on the expression of CPS1. However, the expression of CPS1 did not change with ammonium chloride, which might regulate the urea cycle through enzyme activity. The urea cycle could detoxify high concentrations of ammonia to promote cancer cell proliferation. Therefore, urea was a by-product of ammonia metabolism and could be a potential serum biomarker for HCC. The combined application of metabolomics and biochemical methods can discover new biomarkers for the early diagnosis of HCC and be quickly applied to clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsen Bai
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Department of Cancer Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Dong Dong
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Laboratory, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhi Yu
- Department of Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoyang University, Shaoyang, China
| | - Junfei Guo
- Department of Laboratory, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ding Li
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruochen Yan
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Liyan Wang
- School of Medical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhaosong Wang
- Department of Public Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer, Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Yueguo Li
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Ren
- Department of Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
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A Novel Therapeutic Target, BACH1, Regulates Cancer Metabolism. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030634. [PMID: 33809182 PMCID: PMC8001775 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BTB domain and CNC homology 1 (BACH1) is a transcription factor that is highly expressed in tumors including breast and lung, relative to their non-tumor tissues. BACH1 is known to regulate multiple physiological processes including heme homeostasis, oxidative stress response, senescence, cell cycle, and mitosis. In a tumor, BACH1 promotes invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, and the expression of BACH1 presents a poor outcome for cancer patients including breast and lung cancer patients. Recent studies identified novel functional roles of BACH1 in the regulation of metabolic pathways in cancer cells. BACH1 inhibits mitochondrial metabolism through transcriptional suppression of mitochondrial membrane genes. In addition, BACH1 suppresses activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), a key enzyme that converts pyruvate to acetyl-CoA for the citric acid (TCA) cycle through transcriptional activation of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK). Moreover, BACH1 increases glucose uptake and lactate secretion through the expression of metabolic enzymes involved such as hexokinase 2 (HK2) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) for aerobic glycolysis. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of BACH1 could reprogram by increasing mitochondrial metabolism, subsequently rendering metabolic vulnerability of cancer cells against mitochondrial respiratory inhibition. Furthermore, inhibition of BACH1 decreased antioxidant-induced glycolysis rates as well as reduced migration and invasion of cancer cells, suggesting BACH1 as a potentially useful cancer therapeutic target.
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Cieśla M, Ngoc PCT, Cordero E, Martinez ÁS, Morsing M, Muthukumar S, Beneventi G, Madej M, Munita R, Jönsson T, Lövgren K, Ebbesson A, Nodin B, Hedenfalk I, Jirström K, Vallon-Christersson J, Honeth G, Staaf J, Incarnato D, Pietras K, Bosch A, Bellodi C. Oncogenic translation directs spliceosome dynamics revealing an integral role for SF3A3 in breast cancer. Mol Cell 2021; 81:1453-1468.e12. [PMID: 33662273 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Splicing is a central RNA-based process commonly altered in human cancers; however, how spliceosomal components are co-opted during tumorigenesis remains poorly defined. Here we unravel the core splice factor SF3A3 at the nexus of a translation-based program that rewires splicing during malignant transformation. Upon MYC hyperactivation, SF3A3 levels are modulated translationally through an RNA stem-loop in an eIF3D-dependent manner. This ensures accurate splicing of mRNAs enriched for mitochondrial regulators. Altered SF3A3 translation leads to metabolic reprogramming and stem-like properties that fuel MYC tumorigenic potential in vivo. Our analysis reveals that SF3A3 protein levels predict molecular and phenotypic features of aggressive human breast cancers. These findings unveil a post-transcriptional interplay between splicing and translation that governs critical facets of MYC-driven oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Cieśla
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Phuong Cao Thi Ngoc
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Eugenia Cordero
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
| | - Álvaro Sejas Martinez
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Mikkel Morsing
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sowndarya Muthukumar
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Giulia Beneventi
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Magdalena Madej
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Roberto Munita
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Terese Jönsson
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Kristina Lövgren
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anna Ebbesson
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Nodin
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Hedenfalk
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karin Jirström
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Gabriella Honeth
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Staaf
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Danny Incarnato
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Kristian Pietras
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ana Bosch
- Division of Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Hematology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Cristian Bellodi
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden.
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Kazemi MH, Najafi A, Karami J, Ghazizadeh F, Yousefi H, Falak R, Safari E. Immune and metabolic checkpoints blockade: Dual wielding against tumors. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 94:107461. [PMID: 33592403 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer immunotherapy have raised hopes for treating cancers that are resistant to conventional therapies. Among the various immunotherapy methods, the immune checkpoint (IC) blockers were more promising and have paved their way to the clinic. Tumor cells induce the expression of ICs on the immune cells and derive them to a hyporesponsive exhausted phenotype. IC blockers could hinder immune exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment and reinvigorate immune cells for an efficient antitumor response. Despite the primary success of IC blockers in the clinic, the growing numbers of refractory cases require an in-depth study of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying IC expression and function. Immunometabolism is recently found to be a key factor in the regulation of immune responses. Activated or exhausted immune cells exploit different metabolic pathways. Tumor cells can suppress antitumor responses via immunometabolism alteration. Therefore, it is expected that concurrent targeting of ICs and immunometabolism pathways can cause immune cells to restore their antitumor activity. In this review, we dissected the reciprocal interactions of immune cell metabolism with expression and signaling of ICs in the tumor microenvironment. Recent findings on dual targeting of ICs and metabolic checkpoints have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Kazemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Najafi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Jafar Karami
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran.
| | - Foad Ghazizadeh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Yousefi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, LSUHSC School of Medicine, New Orleans, USA.
| | - Reza Falak
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Elahe Safari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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