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Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling and Neuronal Cell Death. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315186. [PMID: 36499512 PMCID: PMC9740965 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides protein processing, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) has several other functions such as lipid synthesis, the transfer of molecules to other cellular compartments, and the regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis. Before leaving the organelle, proteins must be folded and post-translationally modified. Protein folding and revision require molecular chaperones and a favorable ER environment. When in stressful situations, ER luminal conditions or chaperone capacity are altered, and the cell activates signaling cascades to restore a favorable folding environment triggering the so-called unfolded protein response (UPR) that can lead to autophagy to preserve cell integrity. However, when the UPR is disrupted or insufficient, cell death occurs. This review examines the links between UPR signaling, cell-protective responses, and death following ER stress with a particular focus on those mechanisms that operate in neurons.
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The concept of intrinsic versus extrinsic apoptosis. Biochem J 2022; 479:357-384. [PMID: 35147165 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Regulated cell death is a vital and dynamic process in multicellular organisms that maintains tissue homeostasis and eliminates potentially dangerous cells. Apoptosis, one of the better-known forms of regulated cell death, is activated when cell-surface death receptors like Fas are engaged by their ligands (the extrinsic pathway) or when BCL-2-family pro-apoptotic proteins cause the permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane (the intrinsic pathway). Both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis lead to the activation of a family of proteases, the caspases, which are responsible for the final cell demise in the so-called execution phase of apoptosis. In this review, I will first discuss the most common types of regulated cell death on a morphological basis. I will then consider in detail the molecular pathways of intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis, discussing how they are activated in response to specific stimuli and are sometimes overlapping. In-depth knowledge of the cellular mechanisms of apoptosis is becoming more and more important not only in the field of cellular and molecular biology but also for its translational potential in several pathologies, including neurodegeneration and cancer.
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Zhao LJ, Zhao HY, Wei XL, Guo FF, Wei JY, Wang HJ, Yang J, Yang ZG, Si N, Bian BL. The lipid homeostasis regulation study of arenobufagin in zebrafish HepG2 xenograft model and HepG2 cells using integrated lipidomics-proteomics approach. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 260:112943. [PMID: 32422359 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Arenobufagin (ArBu) is an important anti-tumor ingredient of Chan'su which has long been used as traditional Chinese medicine in clinic for tumor therapy in China. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of our study is to investigate the lipid homeostasis regulation effects of ArBu on zebrafish model of liver cancer and hepatoma cells, and to provide a reference for further clarifying its active mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS The zebrafish xenograft model was established by injecting HepG2 cells stained with CM-Dil red fluorescent dye. Both the xenograft model and HepG2 cells were used to evaluate the anti-hepatoma activity of ArBu. High performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) was the main method to study lipidomics, proteomics and the semiquantification of endogenous metabolites. Bioinformatics was used as an assistant tool to further explore the antitumor mechanism of ArBu. RESULTS The lipidomics analysis revealed that ArBu caused differential lipids changes in a dose-dependent manner, including PCs, PEs, TGs, SMs, DGs, Cer and PA. PCs, PEs, SMs and TGs were markedly altered in both two models. The influence of glycerophospholipid metabolism was the major and commonly affected pathway. Notably, DGs and Cer were significantly changed only in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, the proteomics research in HepG2 cells fished the target proteins related to lipid homeostasis abnormalities and tumor suppression. ArBu reduced the expression of 65 differential proteins associated with the lipid metabolism, apoptosis and autophagy, such as LCLAT1, STAT3, TSPO and RPS27. Meanwhile, 7 amino acids of 29 determined metabolites were significantly changed, including tyrosine, glutamate, glutamine, leucine, threonine, arginine and isoleucine. CONCLUSION ArBu has a significant anti-hepatoma effect in vitro and a therapeutic effect on zebrafish xenograft model. It regulated the lipid homeostasis. Activated SM synthase and arginine deiminase, inhibited sphingomyelinase, amino acid supply and JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway, and the affected glycerophospholipid metabolism might explain these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Hai-Yu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Xiao-Lu Wei
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Fei-Fei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Jun-Ying Wei
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Hong-Jie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Zhi-Gang Yang
- School of Pharmacy Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730020, China.
| | - Nan Si
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Bao-Lin Bian
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
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Sakamoto W, Canals D, Salamone S, Allopenna J, Clarke CJ, Snider J, Obeid LM, Hannun YA. Probing compartment-specific sphingolipids with targeted bacterial sphingomyelinases and ceramidases. J Lipid Res 2019; 60:1841-1850. [PMID: 31243119 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m094722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids contribute to the regulation of cell and tissue homeostasis, and disorders of sphingolipid metabolism lead to diseases such as inflammation, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Sphingolipid metabolic pathways involve an array of enzymes that reside in specific subcellular organelles, resulting in the formation of many diverse sphingolipids with distinct molecular species based on the diversity of the ceramide (Cer) structure. In order to probe compartment-specific metabolism of sphingolipids in this study, we analyzed the Cer and SM species preferentially produced in the inner plasma membrane (PM), Golgi apparatus, ER, mitochondria, nucleus, and cytoplasm by using compartmentally targeted bacterial SMases and ceramidases. The results showed that the length of the acyl chain of Cer becomes longer according to the progress of Cer from synthesis in the ER to the Golgi apparatus, then to the PM. These findings suggest that each organelle shows different properties of SM-derived Cers consistent with its emerging distinct functions in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Sakamoto
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY.,Ono Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd. Oncology Research Laboratories, Osaka, Japan
| | - Daniel Canals
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Silvia Salamone
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Janet Allopenna
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Christopher J Clarke
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Justin Snider
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Lina M Obeid
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY.,Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Northport, NY
| | - Yusuf A Hannun
- Department of Medicine and Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY .,Departments of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Pathology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
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Luger S, Schwebler A, Vutukuri R, Bouzas NF, Labocha S, Schreiber Y, Brunkhorst R, Steinmetz H, Pfeilschifter J, Pfeilschifter W. Beta adrenoceptor blockade ameliorates impaired glucose tolerance and alterations of the cerebral ceramide metabolism in an experimental model of ischemic stroke. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2018; 11:1756286418769830. [PMID: 29774054 PMCID: PMC5949927 DOI: 10.1177/1756286418769830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Sphingolipids are versatile signaling molecules derived from membrane lipids of eukaryotic cells. Ceramides regulate cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis and are involved in cellular stress responses. Experimental evidence suggests a pivotal role of sphingolipids in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic stroke. A neuroprotective effect has been shown for beta-adrenergic antagonists in rodent stroke models and supported by observational clinical data. However, the exact underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still under investigation. We aimed to examine the influence of propranolol on the ceramide metabolism in the stroke-affected brain. Methods: Mice were subjected to 60 or 180 min transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) and infarct size, functional neurological deficits, glucose tolerance, and brain ceramide levels were assessed after 12, 24, and 72 h to evaluate whether the latter two processes occur in a similar time frame. Next, we assessed the effects of propranolol (10 mg/kg bw) at 0, 4 and 8 h after tMCAO and FTY720 (fingolimod; 1 mg/kg) on infarct size, functional outcome, immune cell counts and brain ceramide levels at 24 h after 60 min tMCAO. Results: We found a temporal coincidence between stroke-associated impaired glucose tolerance and brain ceramide accumulation. Whereas propranolol reduced ischemic lesion size, improved functional outcome and reduced brain ceramide accumulation without an effect on circulating immune cells, FTY720 showed the known neuroprotective effect and strong reduction of circulating immune cells without affecting brain ceramide accumulation. Conclusions: Propranolol ameliorates both stroke-associated impairment of glucose tolerance and brain ceramide accumulation which are temporally linked, strengthening the evidence for a role of the sympathetic nervous system in regulating post-stroke glucose metabolism and its metabolic consequences in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Luger
- Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Annette Schwebler
- Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Rajkumar Vutukuri
- Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | - Sandra Labocha
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Yannick Schreiber
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Robert Brunkhorst
- Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Helmuth Steinmetz
- Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Josef Pfeilschifter
- Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Waltraud Pfeilschifter
- Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Neurovascular Lipid Signalling Group (NLSG), Schleusenweg 2-16, Frankfurt am Main, 60528, Germany
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Moro K, Kawaguchi T, Tsuchida J, Gabriel E, Qi Q, Yan L, Wakai T, Takabe K, Nagahashi M. Ceramide species are elevated in human breast cancer and are associated with less aggressiveness. Oncotarget 2018; 9:19874-19890. [PMID: 29731990 PMCID: PMC5929433 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids have emerged as key regulatory molecules in cancer cell survival and death. Although important roles of sphingolipids in breast cancer progression have been reported in experimental models, their roles in human patients are yet to be revealed. The aim of this study was to investigate the ceramide levels and its biosynthesis pathways in human breast cancer patients. Breast cancer, peri-tumor and normal breast tissue samples were collected from surgical specimens from a series of 44 patients with breast cancer. The amount of sphingolipid metabolites in the tissue were determined by mass spectrometry. The Cancer Genome Atlas was used to analyze gene expression related to the sphingolipid metabolism. Ceramide levels were higher in breast cancer tissue compared to both normal and peri-tumor breast tissue. Substrates and enzymes that generate ceramide were significantly increased in all three ceramide biosynthesis pathways in cancer. Further, higher levels of ceramide in breast cancer were associated with less aggressive cancer biology presented by Ki-67 index and nuclear grade of the cancer. Interestingly, patients with higher gene expressions of enzymes in the three major ceramide synthesis pathways showed significantly worse prognosis. This is the first study to reveal the clinical relevance of ceramide metabolism in breast cancer patients. We demonstrated that ceramide levels in breast cancer tissue were significantly higher than those in normal tissue, with activation of the three ceramide biosynthesis pathways. We also identified that ceramide levels have a significant association with aggressive phenotype and its enzymes have prognostic impact on breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Moro
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata City 951-8510, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Kawaguchi
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Junko Tsuchida
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata City 951-8510, Japan
| | - Emmanuel Gabriel
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Qianya Qi
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Li Yan
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA
| | - Toshifumi Wakai
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata City 951-8510, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Takabe
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata City 951-8510, Japan.,Breast Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA.,Department of Surgery, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14203, USA.,Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan.,Department of Surgery, Yokohama City University, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Masayuki Nagahashi
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata City 951-8510, Japan
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Russo SB, Tidhar R, Futerman AH, Cowart LA. Myristate-derived d16:0 sphingolipids constitute a cardiac sphingolipid pool with distinct synthetic routes and functional properties. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:13397-409. [PMID: 23530041 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.428185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myristate is a novel potential substrate for sphingoid base synthesis. RESULTS Myocardial sphingoid base synthesis utilizes myristate; these sphingolipids are functionally non-redundant with canonical sphingoid bases. CONCLUSION d16:0 and d16:1 sphingolipids constitute an appreciable proportion of cardiac dihydrosphingosine and dihydroceramide, with distinct biological roles. SIGNIFICANCE This pool of sphingolipids may play a heretofore unsuspected role in myocardial pathology or protection. The enzyme serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) catalyzes the formation of the sphingoid base "backbone" from which all sphingolipids are derived. Previous studies have shown that inhibition of SPT ameliorates pathological cardiac outcomes in models of lipid overload, but the metabolites responsible for these phenotypes remain unidentified. Recent in vitro studies have shown that incorporation of the novel subunit SPTLC3 broadens the substrate specificity of SPT, allowing utilization of myristoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) in addition to its canonical substrate palmitoyl-CoA. However, the relevance of these findings in vivo has yet to be determined. The present study sought to determine whether myristate-derived d16 sphingolipids are represented among myocardial sphingolipids and, if so, whether their function and metabolic routes were distinct from those of palmitate-derived d18 sphingolipids. Data showed that d16:0 sphingoid bases occurred in more than one-third of total dihydrosphingosine and dihydroceramides in myocardium, and a diet high in saturated fat promoted their de novo production. Intriguingly, d16-ceramides demonstrated highly limited N-acyl chain diversity, and in vitro enzyme activity assays showed that these bases were utilized preferentially to canonical bases by CerS1. Functional differences between myristate- and palmitate-derived sphingolipids were observed in that, unlike d18 sphingolipids and SPTLC2, d16 sphingolipids and SPTLC3 did not appear to contribute to myristate-induced autophagy, whereas only d16 sphingolipids promoted cell death and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase in cardiomyocytes. Thus, these results reveal a previously unappreciated component of cardiac sphingolipids with functional differences from canonical sphingolipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Brice Russo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
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Leblanc F, Zhang D, Liu X, Loughran TP. Large granular lymphocyte leukemia: from dysregulated pathways to therapeutic targets. Future Oncol 2013; 8:787-801. [PMID: 22830400 DOI: 10.2217/fon.12.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Large granular lymphocyte (LGL) leukemia is a clonal lymphoproliferative disorder of cytotoxic lymphocytes characterized by an expansion of CD3(+) cytotoxic T lymphocytes or CD3(-) natural killer cells. Patients present with various cytopenias including neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia. In addition, there is an association of T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia with rheumatoid arthritis. It is believed that LGL leukemia begins as an antigen-driven immune response with subsequent constitutive activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes or natural killer cells through PDGF and IL-15 contributing to their survival. Consequently, this leads to a dysregulation of apoptosis and dysfunction of the activation-induced cell death pathway. Treatment of LGL leukemia is based on a low-dose immunosuppressive regimen using methotrexate or cyclophosphamide. However, no standard of therapy has been established, as large prospective trials have not been conducted. In addition, some patients are refractory to treatment. The lack of a curative therapy for LGL leukemia means that new treatment options are needed. Insight into the various dysregulated signaling pathways in LGL leukemia may provide novel therapeutic treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Leblanc
- Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Experimental Therapeutics, Room 4427, 500 University Drive, PO Box 850, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
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9
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Abstract
Chemotherapy is frequently used to treat primary or metastatic cancers, but intrinsic or acquired drug resistance limits its efficiency. Sphingolipids are important regulators of various cellular processes including proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, angiogenesis, stress, and inflammatory responses which are linked to various aspects of cancer, like tumor growth, neoangiogenesis, and response to chemotherapy. Ceramide, the central molecule of sphingolipid metabolism, generally mediates antiproliferative and proapoptotic functions, whereas sphingosine-1-phosphate and other derivatives have opposing effects. Among the variety of enzymes that control ceramide generation, acid or neutral sphingomyelinases and ceramide synthases are important targets to allow killing of cancer cells by chemotherapeutic drugs. On the contrary, glucosylceramide synthase, ceramidase, and sphingosine kinase are other targets driving cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy. This chapter focuses on ceramide-based mechanisms leading to cancer therapy sensitization or resistance which could have some impacts on the development of novel cancer therapeutic strategies.
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Chatzakos V, Rundlöf AK, Ahmed D, de Verdier PJ, Flygare J. Inhibition of sphingosine kinase 1 enhances cytotoxicity, ceramide levels and ROS formation in liver cancer cells treated with selenite. Biochem Pharmacol 2012; 84:712-21. [PMID: 22727936 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2012.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
High doses of selenite have been shown to induce cell death in acute myeloid leukemia and lung cancer cells. In this study, we combined selenite treatment with modulators of sphingolipid metabolism in the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Huh7. Treatment with 20 μM of selenite reduced the viability of Huh7 cells by half and increased the levels of long chain C14-, C16-, C18- and C18:1- ceramides by two-fold. Inhibition of neutral sphingomyelinase with 3-O-methylsphingosine significantly reduced the cytotoxic effect of selenite. In line with this result, selenite caused a 2.5-fold increase in the activity of neutral sphingomyelinase. The sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1) inhibitor 2-(p-hydroxyanilino)-4-(p-chlorophenyl)thiazole (SK1-II) sensitized the cells to the cytotoxic effects of selenite. Preincubation with 10 μM of SK1-II prior to treatment with 10 μM of selenite caused induction of apoptosis and gave rise to a 2.5-fold increase in C14-, C16-, C18- and C18:1- ceramides. Instead, 50 μM of SK1-II combined with 10 μM of selenite caused accumulation of cells in G1/S phases, but less apoptosis and accumulation of ceramides. The formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) after treatment with 10 μM of selenite was maximally enhanced by 1 μM of SK1-II. Moreover, combined treatment with SK1-II and 10 μM of selenite synergistically reduced the number of viable Huh7 cells, while the non-tumorigenic hepatocyte cell line MIHA remained unaffected by the same treatment. These results raise the possibility that a combination of selenite and SK1 inhibitors could be used to treat liver cancer cells, that are regarded as drug resistant, at doses that are non-toxic to normal liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Chatzakos
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Hartmann D, Lucks J, Fuchs S, Schiffmann S, Schreiber Y, Ferreirós N, Merkens J, Marschalek R, Geisslinger G, Grösch S. Long chain ceramides and very long chain ceramides have opposite effects on human breast and colon cancer cell growth. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2012; 44:620-8. [PMID: 22230369 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2011.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2011] [Revised: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Ceramides are known to be key players in intracellular signaling and are involved in apoptosis, cell senescence, proliferation, cell growth and differentiation. They are synthesized by ceramide synthases (CerS). So far, six different mammalian CerS (CerS1-6) have been described. Recently, we demonstrated that human breast cancer tissue displays increased activity of CerS2, 4, and 6, together with enhanced generation of their products, ceramides C(16:0), C(24:0), and C(24:1). Moreover, these increases were significantly associated with tumor dignity. To clarify the impact of this observation, we manipulated cellular ceramide levels by overexpressing ceramide synthases 2, 4 or 6 in MCF-7 (breast cancer) and HCT-116 (colon cancer) cells, respectively. Overexpression of ceramide synthases 4 and 6 elevated generation of short chain ceramides C(16:0), C(18:0) and C(20:0), while overexpression of ceramide synthase 2 had no effect on ceramide production in vivo, presumably due to limited substrate availability, because external addition of very long chain acyl-CoAs resulted in a significant upregulation of very long chain ceramides. We also demonstrated that upregulation of CerS4 and 6 led to the inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis, whereas upregulation of CerS2 increased cell proliferation. On the basis of our data, we propose that a disequilibrium between ceramides of various chain length is crucial for cancer progression, while normal cells require an equilibrium between very long and long chain ceramides for normal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Hartmann
- Pharmazentrum frankfurt/ZAFES, Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Klinikum der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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Xu S, Sun C, Guo J, Xu K, Wang C. Biopolymer-directed synthesis of high-surface-area magnetite colloidal nanocrystal clusters for dual drug delivery in prostate cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1039/c2jm34877b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Abstract
Nuclear lipid metabolism is implicated in various processes, including transcription, splicing, and DNA repair. Sphingolipids play roles in numerous cellular functions, and an emerging body of literature has identified roles for these lipid mediators in distinct nuclear processes. Different sphingolipid species are localized in various subnuclear domains, including chromatin, the nuclear matrix, and the nuclear envelope, where sphingolipids exert specific regulatory and structural functions. Sphingomyelin, the most abundant nuclear sphingolipid, plays both structural and regulatory roles in chromatin assembly and dynamics in addition to being an integral component of the nuclear matrix. Sphingosine-1-phosphate modulates histone acetylation, sphingosine is a ligand for steroidogenic factor 1, and nuclear accumulation of ceramide has been implicated in apoptosis. Finally, nuclear membrane-associated ganglioside GM1 plays a pivotal role in Ca(2+) homeostasis. This review highlights research on the factors that control nuclear sphingolipid metabolism and summarizes the roles of these lipids in various nuclear processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha C Lucki
- School of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
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14
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Szulc ZM, Bai A, Bielawski J, Mayroo N, Miller DE, Gracz H, Hannun YA, Bielawska A. Synthesis, NMR characterization and divergent biological actions of 2'-hydroxy-ceramide/dihydroceramide stereoisomers in MCF7 cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2010; 18:7565-79. [PMID: 20851613 PMCID: PMC2956829 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2010.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 08/26/2010] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
A straightforward method for the simultaneous preparation of (2S,3R,2'R)- and (2S,3R,2'S)-2'-hydroxy-ceramides (2'-OHCer) from (2S,3R)-sphingosine acetonide precursors and racemic mixtures of 2-hydroxy fatty acids (2-OHFAs) is described. The obtained 2'-OH-C4-, -C6-, -C12-, -C16-Cer and 2'-OH-C6-dhCer pairs of diastereoisomers were characterized thoroughly by TLC, MS, NMR, and optical rotation. Dynamic and multidimensional NMR studies provided evidence that polar interfaces of 2'-OHCers are extended and more rigid than observed for the corresponding non-hydroxylated analogs. Stereospecific profile on growth suppression of MCF7 cells was observed for (2'R)- and (2'S)-2'-OH-C6-Cers and their dihydro analogs. The (2'R)-isomers were more active than the (2'S)-isomers (IC(50) ∼3 μM/8 μM and IC(50) ∼8 μM/12 μM, respectively), surpassing activity of the ordinary C6-Cer (IC(50) ∼12 μM) and C6-dhCer (IC(50) ∼38 μM). Neither isomer of 2'-OH-C6-Cers and 2'-OH-C6-dhCers was metabolized to their cellular long chain 2'-OH-homologs. Surprisingly, the most active (2'R)-isomers did not influence the levels of the cellular Cers nor dhCers. Contrary to this, the (2'S)-isomers generated cellular Cers and dhCers efficiently. In comparison, the ordinary C6-Cer and C6-dhCer also significantly increased the levels of their cellular long chain homologs. These peculiar anabolic responses and SAR data suggest that (2'R)-2'-OHCers/dhCers may interact with some distinct cellular regulatory targets in a specific and more effective manner than their non-hydroxylated analogs. Thus, stereoisomers of 2'-OHCers can be potentially utilized as novel molecular tools to study lipid-protein interactions, cell signaling phenomena and to understand the role of hydroxylated sphingolipids in cancer biology, pathogenesis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdzislaw M. Szulc
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Aiping Bai
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Jacek Bielawski
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Nalini Mayroo
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Doreen E. Miller
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
- Roche Carolina, Inc., Florence, SC 29506
| | - Hanna Gracz
- Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Yusuf A. Hannun
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
| | - Alicja Bielawska
- Lipidomics Shared Resource, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425
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15
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Targeting of survivin by nanoliposomal ceramide induces complete remission in a rat model of NK-LGL leukemia. Blood 2010; 116:4192-201. [PMID: 20671121 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-02-271080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural killer (NK) type of aggressive large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia is a fatal illness that pursues a rapid clinical course. There are no effective therapies for this illness, and pathogenetic mechanisms remain undefined. Here we report that the survivin was highly expressed in both aggressive and chronic leukemic NK cells but not in normal NK cells. In vitro treatment of human and rat NK-LGL leukemia cells with cell-permeable, short-chain C₆-ceramide (C₆) in nanoliposomal formulation led to caspase-dependent apoptosis and diminished survivin protein expression, in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Importantly, systemic intravenous delivery of nanoliposomal ceramide induced complete remission in the syngeneic Fischer F344 rat model of aggressive NK-LGL leukemia. Therapeutic efficacy was associated with decreased expression of survivin in vivo. These data suggest that in vivo targeting of survivin through delivery of nanoliposomal C₆-ceramide may be a promising therapeutic approach for a fatal leukemia.
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Lucki NC, Sewer MB. The interplay between bioactive sphingolipids and steroid hormones. Steroids 2010; 75:390-9. [PMID: 20138078 PMCID: PMC2854287 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2010.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2009] [Revised: 01/25/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Steroid hormones regulate various physiological processes including development, reproduction, and metabolism. These regulatory molecules are synthesized from cholesterol in endocrine organs - such as the adrenal glands and gonads - via a multi-step enzymatic process that is catalyzed by the cytochrome P450 superfamily of monooxygenases and hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Steroidogenesis is induced by trophic peptide hormones primarily via the activation of a cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent pathway. However, other signaling molecules, including cytokines and growth factors, control the steroid hormone biosynthetic pathway. More recently, sphingolipids, including ceramide, sphingosine-1-phosphate, and sphingosine, have been found to modulate steroid hormone secretion at multiple levels. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the mechanisms by which sphingolipids regulate steroidogenesis. In addition, we discuss how steroid hormones control sphingolipid metabolism. Finally, we outline evidence supporting the emerging role of bioactive sphingolipids in various nuclear processes and discuss a role for nuclear sphingolipid metabolism in the control of gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha C. Lucki
- School of Biology and Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 310 Ferst Dr., Atlanta, GA 30332
| | - Marion B. Sewer
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr. MC0704, La Jolla, CA 92093
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17
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Jiang H, Elsner P, Jensen K, Falcicchio A, Marcos V, Jørgensen K. Achieving Molecular Complexity by Organocatalytic One-Pot Strategies-A Fast Entry for Synthesis of Sphingoids, Amino Sugars, and Polyhydroxylated α-Amino Acids. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.200901446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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18
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Jiang H, Elsner P, Jensen K, Falcicchio A, Marcos V, Jørgensen K. Achieving Molecular Complexity by Organocatalytic One-Pot Strategies-A Fast Entry for Synthesis of Sphingoids, Amino Sugars, and Polyhydroxylated α-Amino Acids. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2009; 48:6844-8. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.200901446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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19
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Abstract
A hallmark of tissue injury in various models of ischemia/reperfusion (IR) is mitochondrial dysfunction and the release of mitochondrial proapoptotic proteins leading to cell death. Although IR-induced mitochondrial injury has been extensively studied and key mitochondrial functions affected by IR are chiefly characterized, the nature of the molecule that causes loss of mitochondrial integrity and function remains obscure. It has become increasingly clear that ceramide, a membrane sphingolipid and a key mediator of cell stress responses, could play a critical role in IR-induced mitochondrial damage. Emerging data point to excessive ceramide accumulation in tissue and, specifically, in mitochondria after IR. Exogenously added to isolated mitochondria, ceramide could mimic some of the mitochondrial dysfunctions occurring in IR. The recent identification and characterization of major enzymes in ceramide synthesis is expected to contribute to the understanding of molecular mechanisms of ceramide involvement in mitochondrial damage in IR. This review will examine the experimental evidence supporting the important role of ceramide in mitochondrial dysfunction in IR to highlight potential targets for pharmacological manipulation of ceramide levels.
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20
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Novel roles for ceramides, calpains and caspases in kidney proximal tubule cell apoptosis: Lessons from in vitro cadmium toxicity studies. Biochem Pharmacol 2008; 76:1323-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2008.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2008] [Revised: 07/02/2008] [Accepted: 07/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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21
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Novgorodov SA, Gudz TI, Obeid LM. Long-chain ceramide is a potent inhibitor of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:24707-17. [PMID: 18596045 PMCID: PMC2529003 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m801810200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2008] [Revised: 06/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The sphingolipid ceramide has been implicated in mediating cell death that is accompanied by mitochondrial functional alterations. Moreover, ceramide has been shown to accumulate in mitochondria upon induction of apoptotic processes. In this study, we sought to evaluate the effects of natural, highly hydrophobic long-chain ceramides on mitochondrial function in vitro. Ceramide in a dodecane/ethanol delivery system inhibited the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) induced by either oxidative stress, SH group cross-linking, or high Ca2+ load, suggesting that the inhibitory point is at a level at which major PTP regulatory pathways converge. Moreover, ceramide had no effect on well known mitochondrial components that modulate PTP activity, such as cyclophilin D, voltage-dependent anion channel, adenine nucleotide transporter, and ATP synthase. The inhibitory effect of ceramide on PTP was not stereospecific, nor was there a preference for ceramide over dihydroceramide. However, the effect of ceramide on PTP was significantly influenced by the fatty acid moiety chain length. These studies are the first to show that long-chain ceramide can influence PTP at physiologically relevant concentrations, suggesting that it is the only known potent natural inhibitor of PTP. These results suggest a novel mechanism of ceramide regulation of mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei A. Novgorodov
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical
Center, Charleston, South Carolina 29401 and the Departments of
Medicine,
Neuroscience, and
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical
University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425
| | - Tatyana I. Gudz
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical
Center, Charleston, South Carolina 29401 and the Departments of
Medicine,
Neuroscience, and
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical
University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425
| | - Lina M. Obeid
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical
Center, Charleston, South Carolina 29401 and the Departments of
Medicine,
Neuroscience, and
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical
University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425
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22
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Mimeault M, Mehta PP, Hauke R, Batra SK. Functions of normal and malignant prostatic stem/progenitor cells in tissue regeneration and cancer progression and novel targeting therapies. Endocr Rev 2008; 29:234-52. [PMID: 18292464 PMCID: PMC2528844 DOI: 10.1210/er.2007-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes the recent advancements that have improved our understanding of the functions of prostatic stem/progenitor cells in maintaining homeostasis of the prostate gland. We also describe the oncogenic events that may contribute to their malignant transformation into prostatic cancer stem/progenitor cells during cancer initiation and progression to metastatic disease stages. The molecular mechanisms that may contribute to the intrinsic or the acquisition of a resistant phenotype by the prostatic cancer stem/progenitor cells and their differentiated progenies with a luminal phenotype to the current therapies and disease relapse are also reviewed. The emphasis is on the critical functions of distinct tumorigenic signaling cascades induced through the epidermal growth factor system, hedgehog, Wnt/beta-catenin, and/or stromal cell-derived factor-1/CXC chemokine receptor-4 pathways as well as the deregulated apoptotic signaling elements and ATP-binding cassette multidrug transporter. Of particular therapeutic interest, we also discuss the potential beneficial effects associated with the targeting of these signaling elements to overcome the resistance to current treatments and prostate cancer recurrence. The combined targeted strategies toward distinct oncogenic signaling cascades in prostatic cancer stem/progenitor cells and their progenies as well as their local microenvironment, which could improve the efficacy of current clinical chemotherapeutic treatments against incurable, androgen-independent, and metastatic prostate cancers, are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- and Surinder K. Batra, Ph.D., Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Eppley Institute for Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA.
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23
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Ungvari Z, Parrado-Fernandez C, Csiszar A, de Cabo R. Mechanisms underlying caloric restriction and lifespan regulation: implications for vascular aging. Circ Res 2008; 102:519-28. [PMID: 18340017 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.107.168369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on the emerging evidence that attenuation of the production of reactive oxygen species and inhibition of inflammatory pathways play a central role in the antiaging cardiovascular effects of caloric restriction. Particular emphasis is placed on the potential role of the plasma membrane redox system in caloric restriction-induced pathways responsible for sensing oxidative stress and increasing cellular oxidative stress resistance. We propose that caloric restriction increases bioavailability of NO, decreases vascular reactive oxygen species generation, activates the Nrf2/antioxidant response element pathway, inducing reactive oxygen species detoxification systems, exerts antiinflammatory effects, and, thereby, suppresses initiation/progression of vascular disease that accompany aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Ungvari
- Department of Physiology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, USA
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24
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Divergent syntheses of all stereoisomers of phytosphingosine and their use in the construction of a ceramide library. Bioorg Chem 2008; 36:220-8. [PMID: 18279909 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2007.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2007] [Accepted: 12/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids such as ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate have recently attracted intense research interests because of their functional roles as signaling molecules in many important physiological processes, such as growth arrest, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses, and cell proliferation, vascular maturation and trafficking of lymphocytes. The well-defined modular structures of ceramides and related glycosylceramides are ideally amenable to library formation for medicinal chemistry investigation. We have developed divergent synthetic routes to all eight phytosphingosine stereoisomers and then proceeded to prepare phytosphingosine-based ceramide library composed of more than 500 compounds.
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25
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Kent KD, Clubbs EA, Harper WJ, Bomser JA. Apoptotic Effects of Dietary and Synthetic Sphingolipids in Androgen-Independent (PC-3) Prostate Cancer Cells. Lipids 2008; 43:143-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11745-007-3148-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2007] [Accepted: 12/11/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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26
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Abstract
Steroid hormones are essential regulators of a vast number of physiological processes. The biosynthesis of these chemical messengers occurs in specialized steroidogenic tissues via a multi-step process that is catalyzed by members of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of monooxygenases and hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Though numerous signaling mediators, including cytokines and growth factors control steroidogenesis, trophic peptide hormones are the primary regulators of steroid hormone production. These peptide hormones activate a cAMP/cAMP-dependent kinase (PKA) signaling pathway, however, studies have shown that crosstalk between multiple signal transduction pathways and signaling molecules modulates optimal steroidogenic capacity. Sphingolipids such as ceramide, sphingosine, sphingosine-1-phosphate, sphingomyelin, and gangliosides have been shown to control the steroid hormone biosynthetic pathway at multiple levels, including regulating steroidogenic gene expression and activity as well as acting as second messengers in signaling cascades. In this review, we provide an overview of recent studies that have investigated the role of sphingolipids in adrenal, gonadal, and neural steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha C Lucki
- School of Biology and Parker H, Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 310 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332-0230, USA
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27
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HMGB1 as an autocrine stimulus in human T98G glioblastoma cells: role in cell growth and migration. J Neurooncol 2007; 87:23-33. [DOI: 10.1007/s11060-007-9488-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2007] [Accepted: 10/19/2007] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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28
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Hail N, Carter BZ, Konopleva M, Andreeff M. Apoptosis effector mechanisms: a requiem performed in different keys. Apoptosis 2007; 11:889-904. [PMID: 16547589 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-006-6712-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis is the regulated form of cell death utilized by metazoans to remove unneeded, damaged, or potentially deleterious cells. Certain manifestations of apoptosis may be associated with the proteolytic activity of caspases. These changes are often held as hallmarks of apoptosis in dying cells. Consequently, many regard caspases as the central effectors or executioners of apoptosis. However, this "caspase-centric" paradigm of apoptotic cell death does not appear to be as universal as once believed. In fact, during apoptosis the efficacy of caspases may be highly dependent on the cytotoxic stimulus as well as genetic and epigenetic factors. An ever-increasing number of studies strongly suggest that there are effectors in addition to caspases, which are important in generating apoptotic signatures in dying cells. These seemingly caspase-independent effectors may represent evolutionarily redundant or failsafe mechanisms for apoptotic cell elimination. In this review, we will discuss the molecular regulation of caspases and various caspase-independent effectors of apoptosis, describe the potential context and/or limitations of these mechanisms, and explore why the understanding of these processes may have relevance in cancer where treatment is believed to engage apoptosis to destroy tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hail
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Denver and Health Sciences Center, The University of Colorado, Denver, CO 80262, USA
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29
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Mimeault M, Hauke R, Batra SK. Recent advances on the molecular mechanisms involved in the drug resistance of cancer cells and novel targeting therapies. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2007; 83:673-91. [PMID: 17786164 PMCID: PMC2839198 DOI: 10.1038/sj.clpt.6100296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the recent knowledge obtained on the molecular mechanisms involved in the intrinsic and acquired resistance of cancer cells to current cancer therapies. We describe the cascades that are often altered in cancer cells during cancer progression that may contribute in a crucial manner to drug resistance and disease relapse. The emphasis is on the implication of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) multidrug efflux transporters in drug disposition and antiapoptotic factors, including epidermal growth factor receptor cascades and deregulated enzymes in ceramide metabolic pathways. The altered expression and activity of these signaling elements may have a critical role in the resistance of cancer cells to cytotoxic effects induced by diverse chemotherapeutic drugs and cancer recurrence. Of therapeutic interest, new strategies for reversing the multidrug resistance and developing more effective clinical treatments against the highly aggressive, metastatic, and recurrent cancers, based on the molecular targeting of the cancer progenitor cells and their further differentiated progeny, are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Eppley Institute of Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - R Hauke
- Eppley Institute of Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - SK Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Eppley Institute of Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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30
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Mimeault M, Johansson SL, Vankatraman G, Moore E, Henichart JP, Depreux P, Lin MF, Batra SK. Combined targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor and hedgehog signaling by gefitinib and cyclopamine cooperatively improves the cytotoxic effects of docetaxel on metastatic prostate cancer cells. Mol Cancer Ther 2007; 6:967-78. [PMID: 17363490 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-06-0648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 319] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and hedgehog cascades provide a critical role in prostate cancer progression and contribute to the resistance to clinical therapies and disease relapse. Therefore, we evaluated, for the first time, the antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects induced by a combination of selective inhibitors of EGFR tyrosine kinase and smoothened hedgehog signaling element, gefitinib and cyclopamine, with a current chemotherapeutic drug used in the clinics, docetaxel, on some metastatic prostate cancer cell lines. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed that sonic hedgehog (SHH) expression was enhanced in 39% of primary prostatic adenocarcinomas (Gleason scores 4-10) compared with the corresponding normal tissues of the same prostate gland from 32 prostate cancer patients. The confocal microscopy and Western blot analyses have also indicated the high expression levels of SHH and EGFR in metastatic LNCaP, DU145, and PC3 cells. Moreover, the results revealed that the drugs, alone or in combination, at lower concentrations inhibited the growth of EGF plus SHH-stimulated and serum-stimulated androgen-responsive LNCaP-C33 and androgen-independent LNCaP-C81, DU145, and PC3 cells. Importantly, the combined docetaxel, gefitinib, and cyclopamine also caused a higher rate of apoptotic death of prostate cancer cells compared with individual agents. The cytotoxic effects induced by these drugs in PC3 cells seem to be mediated in part through the cellular ceramide production and activation of caspase cascades via a mitochondrial pathway and the release of cytochrome c into the cytosol. Additionally, the combined agents were more effective at suppressing the invasiveness of PC3 cells through Matrigel in vitro than the single drugs. These findings indicate that the combined use of inhibitors of EGF-EGFR and hedgehog signaling with docetaxel could represent a more promising strategy for treatment in patients with metastatic and androgen-independent prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Eppley Cancer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
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Gilbert SJ, Blain EJ, Jones P, Duance VC, Mason DJ. Exogenous sphingomyelinase increases collagen and sulphated glycosaminoglycan production by primary articular chondrocytes: an in vitro study. Arthritis Res Ther 2007; 8:R89. [PMID: 16696862 PMCID: PMC1779424 DOI: 10.1186/ar1961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2006] [Revised: 04/18/2006] [Accepted: 04/20/2006] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously established a role for the second messenger ceramide in protein kinase R (PKR)-mediated articular cartilage degradation. Ceramide is known to play a dual role in collagen gene regulation, with the effect of ceramide on collagen promoter activity being dependent on its concentration. Treatment of cells with low doses of sphingomyelinase produces small increases in endogenous ceramide. We investigated whether ceramide influences articular chondrocyte matrix homeostasis and, if so, the role of PKR in this process. Bovine articular chondrocytes were stimulated for 7 days with sphingomyelinase to increase endogenous levels of ceramide. To inhibit PKR, 2-aminopurine was added to duplicate cultures. De novo sulphated glycosaminoglycan and collagen synthesis were measured by adding [35S]-sulphate and [3H]-proline to the media, respectively. Chondrocyte phenotype was investigated using RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Over 7 days, sphingomyelinase increased the release of newly synthesized sulphated glycosaminoglycan and collagen into the media, whereas inhibition of PKR in sphingomyelinase-treated cells reduced the level of newly synthesized sulphated glycosaminoglycan and collagen. Sphingomyelinase treated chondrocytes expressed col2a1 mRNA, which is indicative of a normal chondrocyte phenotype; however, a significant reduction in type II collagen protein was detected. Therefore, small increments in endogenous ceramide in chondrocytes appear to push the homeostatic balance toward extracellular matrix synthesis but at the expense of the chondrocytic phenotype, which was, in part, mediated by PKR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie J Gilbert
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Emma J Blain
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Pamela Jones
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Victor C Duance
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Deborah J Mason
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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Abstract
Fenretinide, a synthetic retinoid, has emerged as a promising anticancer agent based on numerous in vitro and animal studies, as well as chemoprevention clinical trials. In vitro observations suggest that the anticancer activity of fenretinide may arise from its ability to induce apoptosis in tumor cells. Diverse signaling molecules including reactive oxygen species, ceramide, and ganglioside GD3 can mediate apoptosis induction by fenretinide in transformed, premalignant, and malignant cells. In many cell types, these signaling intermediates appear to be induced by mechanisms that are independent of retinoic acid receptor activation, and ultimately initiate the intrinsic or mitochondrial-mediated pathway of cell elimination. Numerous investigations conducted during the past 10 years have discovered a great deal about the apoptogenic activity of fenretinide. In this review we explore the mechanisms associated with fenretinide-induced apoptosis and highlight certain mechanistic underpinnings of fenretinide-induced cell death that remain poorly understood and thus warrant further characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hail
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, Box C238, 80262, USA.
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33
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Sanvicens N, Cotter TG. Ceramide is the key mediator of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in retinal photoreceptor cells. J Neurochem 2006; 98:1432-44. [PMID: 16923157 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.03977.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species play a critical role in photoreceptor apoptosis. However, the exact molecular mechanisms triggered by oxidative stress in photoreceptor cell death remain undefined. Here, we demonstrate that the sphingolipid ceramide is the key mediator of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in 661W retinal photoreceptor cells. Treatment of 661W cells with the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, activates acid sphingomyelinase. As a result, sphingomyelin is hydrolysed, which leads to an increase in the concentration of ceramide. We also show that ceramide is responsible for the activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in 661W photoreceptor cells and subsequent activation of the caspase cascade. Furthermore, we show for the first time that ceramide is responsible for the increased Ca2+ levels in the mitochondria and cytosol that precedes activation of the calpain-mediated apoptotic pathway. Additionally, we provide evidence that ceramide also activates the endolysosomal protease cathepsin D pathway. In summary, our findings show that ceramide controls the cell death decisions in photoreceptor cells and highlight the relevance of acid sphingomyelinase as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of retinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Sanvicens
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Bioscience Research Institute, University College, Cork, Ireland
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34
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León F, Brouard I, Rivera A, Torres F, Rubio S, Quintana J, Estévez F, Bermejo J. Isolation, Structure Elucidation, Total Synthesis, and Evaluation of New Natural and Synthetic Ceramides on Human SK-MEL-1 Melanoma Cells. J Med Chem 2006; 49:5830-9. [PMID: 16970407 DOI: 10.1021/jm0605334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Two new long-chain ceramides, trametenamides A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the methanolic extract of the fruiting body of the fungus Trametes menziesii. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses and chemical transformations, and the absolute stereochemistry of trametenamide B (2) was determined by stereoselective total synthesis of four possible diastereomers. The acetyl derivative of the natural ceramide (1a) and synthetic ceramides (24-27) showed cytotoxicity on the human melanoma cell line SK-MEL-1, which was caused by induction of apoptosis as determined by DNA fragmentation, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, and procaspase-9 and -8 processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco León
- Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, C.S.I.C., Instituto Universitario de Bio-Organica Antonio Gonzalez, Avda. Astrofísico F. Sanchez 3, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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35
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Szulc ZM, Bielawski J, Gracz H, Gustilo M, Mayroo N, Hannun YA, Obeid LM, Bielawska A. Tailoring structure-function and targeting properties of ceramides by site-specific cationization. Bioorg Med Chem 2006; 14:7083-104. [PMID: 16919460 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2006.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2006] [Revised: 06/29/2006] [Accepted: 07/01/2006] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the course of our studies on compartment-specific lipid-mediated cell regulation, we identified an intimate connection between ceramides (Cers) and the mitochondria-dependent death-signaling pathways. Here, we report on a new class of cationic Cer mimics, dubbed ceramidoids, designed to act as organelle-targeted sphingolipids (SPLs), based on conjugates of Cer and dihydroceramide (dhCer) with pyridinium salts (CCPS and dhCCPS, respectively). Ceramidoids having the pyridinium salt unit (PSU) placed internally (alpha and gamma- CCPS) or as a tether (omega-CCPS) in the N-acyl moiety were prepared by N-acylation of sphingoid bases with different omega-bromo acids or pyridine carboxylic acid chlorides following capping with respective pyridines or alkyl bromides. Consistent with their design, these analogs, showed a significantly improved solubility in water, well-resolved NMR spectra in D(2)O, broadly modified hydrophobicity, fast cellular uptake, and higher anticancer activities in cells in comparison to uncharged counterparts. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies in MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells revealed that the location of the PSU and its overall chain length affected markedly the cytotoxic effects of these ceramidoids. All omega-CCPSs were more potent (IC(50/48 h): 0.6-8.0 microM) than their alpha/gamma-CCPS (IC(50/48 h): 8-20 microM) or D-erythro-C6-Cer (IC(50/48 h): 15 microM) analogs. omega-DhCCPSs were also moderately potent (IC(50/48 h): 2.5-12.5 microM). Long-chain omega-dhCCPSs were rapidly and efficiently oxidized in cells to the corresponding omega-CCPSs, as established by LC-MS analysis. CCPS analogs also induced acute changes in the levels and composition of endogenous Cers (upregulation of C16-, C14-, and C18-Cers, and downregulation of C24:0- and C24:1-Cers). These novel ceramidoids illustrate the feasibility of compartment-targeted lipids, and they should be useful in cell-based studies as well as potential novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdzislaw M Szulc
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, 29425, USA
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36
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Dyatlovitskaya EV, Kandyba AG. Sphingolipids in tumor metastases and angiogenesis. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2006; 71:347-53. [PMID: 16615853 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297906040018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This review article summarizes data on the involvement of sphingolipids (sphingosine-1-phosphate, sphingosine-1-phosphocholine, neutral glycosphingolipids, and gangliosides) in tumor metastases and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Dyatlovitskaya
- Shemyakin and Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
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37
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Mimeault M, Batra SK. Concise review: recent advances on the significance of stem cells in tissue regeneration and cancer therapies. Stem Cells 2006; 24:2319-45. [PMID: 16794264 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2006-0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we report on recent advances on the functions of embryonic, fetal, and adult stem cell progenitors for tissue regeneration and cancer therapies. We describe new procedures for derivation and maturation of these stem cells into the tissue-specific cell progenitors. The localization of the adult stem cells and their niches, as well as their implication in the tissue repair after injuries and during cancer progression, are also described. The emphasis is on the interactions among certain developmental signaling factors, such as hormones, epidermal growth factor, hedgehog, Wnt/beta-catenin, and Notch. These factors and their pathways are involved in the stringent regulation of the self-renewal and/or differentiation of adult stem cells. Novel strategies for the treatment of both diverse degenerating disorders, by cell replacement, and some metastatic cancer types, by molecular targeting multiple tumorigenic signaling elements in cancer progenitor cells, are also illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Eppley Institute of Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5870, USA.
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38
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Ségui B, Andrieu-Abadie N, Jaffrézou JP, Benoist H, Levade T. Sphingolipids as modulators of cancer cell death: potential therapeutic targets. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2006; 1758:2104-20. [PMID: 16925980 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2006.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2006] [Revised: 05/04/2006] [Accepted: 05/06/2006] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Through modifications in the fine membrane structure, cell-cell or cell-matrix interactions, and/or modulation of intracellular signaling pathways, sphingolipids can affect the tumorigenic potential of numerous cell types. Whereas ceramide and its metabolites have been described as regulators of cell growth and apoptosis, these lipids as well as other sphingolipid molecules can modulate the ability of malignant cells to grow and resist anticancer treatments, and their susceptibility to non-apoptotic cell deaths. This review summarizes our current knowledge on the properties of sphingolipids in the regulation of cancer cell death and tumor development. It also provides an update on the potential perspectives of manipulating sphingolipid metabolism and using sphingolipid analogues in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Ségui
- INSERM U.466, Laboratoire de Biochimie, Institut Louis Bugnard, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rangueil, BP 84225, 31432 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
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39
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Prinetti A, Millimaggi D, D'Ascenzo S, Clarkson M, Bettiga A, Chigorno V, Sonnino S, Pavan A, Dolo V. Lack of ceramide generation and altered sphingolipid composition are associated with drug resistance in human ovarian carcinoma cells. Biochem J 2006; 395:311-8. [PMID: 16356169 PMCID: PMC1422777 DOI: 10.1042/bj20051184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PTX (Paclitaxel) is an antimitotic agent used in the treatment of a number of major solid tumours, particularly in breast and ovarian cancer. This study was undertaken to gain insight into the molecular alterations producing PTX resistance in ovarian cancer. PTX treatment is able to induce apoptosis in the human ovarian carcinoma cell line, CABA I. PTX-induced apoptosis in CABA I cells was accompanied by an increase in the cellular Cer (ceramide) levels and a decrease in the sphingomyelin levels, due to the activation of sphingomyelinases. The inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase decreased PTX-induced apoptosis. Under the same experimental conditions, PTX had no effect on Cer and sphingomyelin levels in the stable PTX-resistant ovarian carcinoma cell line, CABA-PTX.The acquisition of the PTX-resistant phenotype is accompanied by unique alterations in the complex sphingolipid pattern found on lipid extraction. In the drug-resistant cell line, the levels of sphingomyelin and neutral glycosphingolipids were unchanged compared with the drug-sensitive cell line. The ganglioside pattern in CABA I cells is more complex compared with that of CABA-PTX cells. Specifically, we found that the total ganglioside content in CABA-PTX cells was approximately half of that in CABA I cells, and GM3 ganglioside content was remarkably higher in the drug-resistant cell line. Taken together our findings indicate that: i) Cer generated by acid sphingomyelinase is involved in PTX-induced apoptosis in ovarian carcinoma cells, and PTX-resistant cells are characterized by their lack of increased Cer upon drug treatment, ii) PTX resistance might be correlated with an alteration in metabolic Cer patterns specifically affecting cellular ganglioside composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Prinetti
- *Centre of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Milan, 20090 Segrate, Italy
| | - Danilo Millimaggi
- †Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Ascenzo
- †Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Matilda Clarkson
- †Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Arianna Bettiga
- *Centre of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Milan, 20090 Segrate, Italy
| | - Vanna Chigorno
- *Centre of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Milan, 20090 Segrate, Italy
| | - Sandro Sonnino
- *Centre of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Milan, 20090 Segrate, Italy
| | - Antonio Pavan
- †Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenza Dolo
- †Department of Experimental Medicine, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
- To whom correspondence should be addressed (email )
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40
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Detre C, Kiss E, Varga Z, Ludányi K, Pászty K, Enyedi A, Kövesdi D, Panyi G, Rajnavölgyi E, Matkó J. Death or survival: Membrane ceramide controls the fate and activation of antigen-specific T-cells depending on signal strength and duration. Cell Signal 2006; 18:294-306. [PMID: 16099142 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2005.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2005] [Accepted: 05/04/2005] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Sphingomyelinase (SMase)-mediated release of ceramide in the plasma membrane of T-lymphocytes induced by different stimuli such as ligation of Fas/CD95, irradiation, stress, inflammation or anticancer drugs primarily involves mitochondrial apoptosis signaling, but under specific conditions non-apoptotic Fas-signaling was also reported. Here we investigated, using a quantitative simulation model with exogenous C2-ceramide (and SMase), the dependence of activation and fate of T-cells on the strength and duration of ceramide accumulation. A murine, influenza virus hemagglutinin-specific T-helper cell (IP12-7) alone or together with interacting antigen presenting B-cells (APC) was used. C2-ceramide induced apoptosis of TH cells above a 'threshold' stimulus (>25 microM in 'strength' or >30 min in duration), while below the threshold C2-ceramide was non-apoptotic, as confirmed by early and late apoptotic markers (PS-translocation, mitochondrial depolarization, caspase-3 activation, DNA-fragmentation). The modest ceramide stimuli strongly suppressed the calcium response and inhibited several downstream signal events (e.g. ERK1/2-, JNK-phosphorylation, CD69 expression or IL-2 production) in TH cells during both anti-CD3 induced and APC-triggered activation. Ceramide moderately affected the Ca2+ -release from internal stores upon antigen-specific engagement of TCR in immunological synapses, while the influx phase was remarkably reduced in both amplitude and rate, suggesting that the major target(s) of ceramide-effects are membrane-proximal. Ceramide inhibited Kv1.3 potassium channels, store operated Ca2+ -entry (SOC) and depolarized the plasma membrane to which contribution of spontaneously formed ceramide channels is possible. The impaired function of these transporters may be coupled to the quantitative, membrane raft-remodeling effect of ceramide and responsible, in a concerted action, for the suppressed activation. Our results suggest that non-apoptotic Fas stimuli, received from previously activated, FasL+ interacting lymphocytes in the lymph nodes, may negatively regulate subsequent antigen-specific T-cell activation and thus modulate the antigen-specific T-cell response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Detre
- Department of Immunology, Eötvös Lorand University, Pázmány P. sétány 1/C, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
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41
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Kong JY, Klassen SS, Rabkin SW. Ceramide activates a mitochondrial p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase: a potential mechanism for loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential and apoptosis. Mol Cell Biochem 2006; 278:39-51. [PMID: 16180087 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-005-1979-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2004] [Accepted: 02/03/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the impact of ceramide, an intracellular mediator of apoptosis, on the mitochondria to test the hypothesis that ceramide utilized p38 MAPK in the mitochondria to alter mitochondrial potential and induce apoptosis. The capacity of ceramide to adversely affect mitochondria was demonstrated by the significant loss of mitochondrial potential (DeltaPsim), indicated by a J-aggregate fluorescent probe, after embryonic chick cardiomyocytes were treated with the cell permeable ceramide analogue C2-ceramide. p38 MAPK was identified in the mitochondrial fraction of the cell and p38 MAPK phosphorylation in this mitochondrial fraction of the cell occurred with ceramide treatment. In addition, SAPK phosphorylation and a decrease in ERK phosphorylation occurred in whole cell lysates after ceramide treatment. The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB 202190 but not the MEK inhibitor PD 98059 significantly inhibited ceramide-induced apoptosis and loss of DeltaPsim. These data suggest that p38 MAPK is present in the mitochondria and its activation by ceramide indicates local signaling more directly coupled to the mitochondrial pathway in apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Y Kong
- Department of Medicine (Cardiology), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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42
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Dyatlovitskaya EV, Kandyba AG. Role of biologically active sphingolipids in tumor growth. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2006; 71:10-7. [PMID: 16457613 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297906010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This review highlights the literature on the effects of biologically active sphingolipids (sphingosine, ceramide, sphingomyelin, glucosylceramide, gangliosides GM1, GM2, GM3, GD3, etc.) on proliferation, apoptosis, metastases, and invasiveness of tumor cells and the putative role of sphingolipids in chemotherapy of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Dyatlovitskaya
- Shemyakin and Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
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43
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Mimeault M, Brand RE, Sasson AA, Batra SK. Recent advances on the molecular mechanisms involved in pancreatic cancer progression and therapies. Pancreas 2005; 31:301-16. [PMID: 16258363 DOI: 10.1097/01.mpa.0000175893.04660.1b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review describes the recent advances in the molecular events involved in pancreatic cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. Additionally, the importance of deregulated cellular signaling elements as potential targets for developing novel therapeutic strategies against incurable forms of pancreatic cancer is reported. The emphasis is on the critical functions gained by numerous growth factors and their receptors, such as epidermal growth factor receptor, hedgehog signaling, and proangiogenic agents such as vascular endothelial factor and interleukin-8 for the sustained growth, survival, and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. The molecular mechanisms associated with antitumoral properties and the clinical benefits of gemcitabine alone or in combination with other cytotoxic agents for the treatment of pancreatic cancer are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
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44
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Yurkova I, Kisel M, Arnhold J, Shadyro O. Iron-mediated free-radical formation of signaling lipids in a model system. Chem Phys Lipids 2005; 137:29-37. [PMID: 16105667 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2005.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2005] [Revised: 06/09/2005] [Accepted: 06/13/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It has been shown using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and its combination with thin-layer chromatography (TLC) that the action of the ascorbate/Fe(2+)/H(2)O(2) oxidizing system on cardiolipin and galactocerebroside results in the formation of phosphatidic acid (PA) and ceramide (Cer), respectively. These data, when combined with results obtained on radiolysis of similar substances, allowed the conclusion that the formation of PA and Cer occurs via an OH-induced fragmentation taking place in polar moiety of the starting substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Yurkova
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus
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45
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Mimeault M, Batra SK. Recent advances on multiple tumorigenic cascades involved in prostatic cancer progression and targeting therapies. Carcinogenesis 2005; 27:1-22. [PMID: 16195239 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgi229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances on differently-expressed gene products and their functions during the progression from localized androgen-dependent states into androgen-independent and metastatic forms of prostate cancer are reported. The expression levels of numerous oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in distinct prostatic cancer epithelial cell lines and tissues relative to normal prostate cells are described. This is carried out to identify the signaling elements that are altered during the initiation, progression and metastatic process of prostate cancer. Additional information on the interactions between certain deregulated signaling pathways such as androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), hedgehog and Wnt/beta-catenin cascades in controlling the proliferation, survival and invasion of tumor prostate epithelial cells during the disease progression is described. The emphasis is on the critical functions of the AR and EGF-EGFR systems at all stages during prostate carcinogenesis. Of therapeutic interest, new strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of localized and metastatic forms of prostate cancer by targeting multiple tumorigenic signaling elements are also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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46
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Stover TC, Sharma A, Robertson GP, Kester M. Systemic delivery of liposomal short-chain ceramide limits solid tumor growth in murine models of breast adenocarcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2005; 11:3465-74. [PMID: 15867249 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-04-1770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In vitro tumor cell culture models have illuminated the potential therapeutic utility of elevating the intracellular concentration of the antimitogenic and proapoptotic sphingolipid, ceramide. However, although cell-permeable, short-chain ceramide is an effective apoptotic agent in vitro, its use as an in vivo, systemically delivered therapeutic is limited by its inherent lipid hydrophobicity and physicochemical properties. Here, we report that the systemic i.v. delivery of C6-ceramide (C6) in a pegylated liposomal formulation significantly limited the growth of solid tumors in a syngeneic BALB/c mouse tumor model of breast adenocarcinoma. Over a 3-week treatment period, a well-tolerated dose of 36 mg/kg liposomal-C6 elicited a >6-fold reduction in tumor size compared with empty ghost liposomes. Histologic analyses of solid tumors from liposomal-C6-treated mice showed a marked increase in the presence of apoptotic cells, with a coincident decrease in cellular proliferation and in the development of a microvessel network. Liposomal-C6 accumulated within caveolae and mitochondria, suggesting putative mechanisms by which ceramide induces selective cancer cell cytotoxicity. A pharmacokinetic analysis of systemic liposomal-C6 delivery showed that the pegylated liposomal formulation follows first-order kinetics in the blood and achieves a steady-state concentration in tumor tissue. Confirming the therapeutic utility of i.v. liposomal-C6 administration, we also shown diminution of solid tumor growth in a human xenograft model of breast cancer. Together, these results indicate that bioactive ceramide analogues can be incorporated into pegylated liposomal vehicles for improved solubility, drug delivery, and antineoplastic efficacy.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Adenocarcinoma/prevention & control
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Caveolae/metabolism
- Cell Line
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cell Survival/drug effects
- Ceramides/administration & dosage
- Ceramides/pharmacokinetics
- Ceramides/therapeutic use
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Humans
- Injections, Intravenous
- Liposomes
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/prevention & control
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Nude
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Mitochondria/metabolism
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/pathology
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/prevention & control
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Stover
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, USA
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47
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Lossi L, Cantile C, Tamagno I, Merighi A. Apoptosis in the mammalian CNS: Lessons from animal models. Vet J 2005; 170:52-66. [PMID: 15993789 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2004.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2004] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
It is generally assumed that about half of the neurons produced during neurogenesis die before completion of maturation of the central nervous system (CNS). Neural cell death is also relevant in aging and several neurodegenerative diseases. Among the modalities by which neurons die, apoptosis has very much attracted the interest of investigators because in this type of cell death neurons are actively responsible for their own demise by switching on a number of genes and activating a series of specific intracellular pathways. This review focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of apoptosis in normal and transgenic animal models related to naturally occurring neuronal death within the CNS. We will also consider some examples of apoptotic cell death in canine neuropathologies. A thorough analysis of naturally occurring neuronal death in vivo will offer a basis for parallel and future studies involving secondary neuronal loss such as those in neurodegenerative disorders, trauma or ischaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lossi
- Dipartimento di Morfofisiologia Veterinaria, University of Torino, Via Leonardo da Vinci 44, I-10095 Grugliasco, Italy.
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48
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Oskouian B, Saba JD. Death and taxis: what non-mammalian models tell us about sphingosine-1-phosphate. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2005; 15:529-40. [PMID: 15271298 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2004.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a signaling molecule that regulates critical events including mammalian cell proliferation, survival, migration and cell-cell interactions. Most of these signals are triggered by engagement of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors of the Edg family. However, accumulating evidence derived from investigation of non-mammalian models that lack Edg receptors suggests that sphingosine-1-phosphate-like molecules can act through alternative mechanisms and thereby contribute to morphogenesis, development, reproduction and survival. This review provides an overview of sphingosine-1-phosphate metabolism, the isolation of genes in this pathway employing yeast genetics, the evidence for its influence on non-mammalian development, and the pertinence of these findings to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Oskouian
- Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, 5700 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland, CA 94609-1673, USA
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49
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Novgorodov SA, Szulc ZM, Luberto C, Jones JA, Bielawski J, Bielawska A, Hannun YA, Obeid LM. Positively charged ceramide is a potent inducer of mitochondrial permeabilization. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:16096-105. [PMID: 15722351 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m411707200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ceramide-induced cell death is thought to be mediated by change in mitochondrial function, although the precise mechanism is unclear. Proposed models suggest that ceramide induces cell death through interaction with latent binding sites on the outer or inner mitochondrial membranes, followed by an increase in membrane permeability, as an intermediate step in ceramide signal propagation. To investigate these models, we developed a new generation of positively charged ceramides that readily accumulate in isolated and in situ mitochondria. Accumulated, positively charged ceramides increased inner membrane permeability and triggered release of mitochondrial cytochrome c. Furthermore, the positively charged ceramide-induced permeability increase was suppressed by cyclosporin A (60%) and 1,3-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (90%). These observations suggest that the inner membrane permeability increase is due to activation of specific ion transporters, not the generalized loss of lipid bilayer barrier functions. The difference in sensitivity of ceramide-induced ion fluxes to inhibitors of mitochondrial transporters suggests activation of at least two transport systems: the permeability transition pore and the electrogenic H(+) channel. Our results indicate the presence of specific ceramide targets in the mitochondrial matrix, the occupation of which triggers permeability alterations of the inner and outer mitochondrial membranes. These findings also suggest a novel therapeutic role for positively charged ceramides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei A Novgorodov
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina 29401, USA
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Mimeault M, Jouy N, Depreux P, Hénichart JP. Synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic effects induced by mixed epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor ZD1839 and nitric oxide donor in human prostatic cancer cell lines. Prostate 2005; 62:187-99. [PMID: 15389789 DOI: 10.1002/pros.20138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The specific inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, ZD1839 induces potent antitumoral effects on several advanced cancer types. The present study was undertaken to determine whether the combination of ZD1839 with an agent donating nitric oxide (NO(*)), sodium nitroprusside (SNP) results in a synergy of anticarcinogenic responses on metastatic prostate cancer (PC) cells. METHODS The antiproliferative and apoptotic/necrotic effects of ZD1839 and SNP alone or in combination were estimated on EGF- and serum-stimulated LNCaP, DU145, and PC3 cells by MTT growth tests, trypan blue dye exclusion method, and flow cytometric analyses. Moreover, the cellular ceramide levels were evaluated by the diacylglycerol kinase enzymatic method and the amounts of cytosolic cytochrome c by ELISA assays. RESULTS ZD1839 and SNP alone or in combination at lower concentrations induced an inhibition of EGF- and serum-stimulated growth of LNCaP, DU145, and PC3 concomitant with an arrest in the G1 phase of cellular cycle. Interestingly, the mixed ZD1839 and SNP also caused a more substantial apoptotic/necrotic death of these PC cells as compared to drugs alone. Moreover, we have observed that an inhibition of acidic sphingomyelinase, hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) accumulation and caspase cascades results in a significant reduction of apoptotic/necrotic death induced by mixed ZD1839 and SNP in EGF-stimulated PC3 cells. In addition, the combined ZD1839 plus SNP also induced a higher cellular ceramide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial transmembrane potential decrease, and cytochrome c amount released into cytosol as compared to drugs alone. CONCLUSIONS The simultaneous use of EGFR inhibitor and compound releasing NO(*) might lead to a synergy in the ceramide and ROS production which might cause cellular membrane damages resulting in a massive apoptotic/necrotic death of metastatic PC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murielle Mimeault
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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