1
|
Nam DE, Park SJ, Omole S, Um E, Hakami RM, Hahn YS. Activated Gab1 drives hepatocyte proliferation and anti-apoptosis in liver fibrosis via potential involvement of the HGF/c-Met signaling axis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306345. [PMID: 38935609 PMCID: PMC11210754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases are caused by hepatic viral infection, chemicals, and metabolic stress. The protein Grb2-associated binder 1 (Gab1) binds to various growth factor receptors, and triggers cell differentiation/survival signaling pathways. To identify signaling molecules involved in the progression of liver diseases, we performed reverse-phase protein microarray (RPMA)-based screening of hepatocytes isolated from humanized mice after acute HCV infection. Acute viral infection in humanized liver mice significantly decreased the level of hepatocyte p-Gab1. Moreover, hepatoma cells upon HCV infection decreased Gab1 mRNA at later times of infection (D3 to D5) and p-Gab1 level was inversely related to the production of TGF-β. In contrast, the level of p-Gab1 was increased in CCL4-induced fibrotic liver. Hepatoma cells showed elevation of p-Gab1, along with an increase in STAT3 and ERK activation, upon treatment with HGF (ligand of HGF receptor/c-Met) and CCL4. In Gab1 knockdown hepatoma cells, cell proliferative signaling activity was reduced but the level of activated caspase-3 was increased. These findings suggest that hepatocyte Gab1 expression may play a role in promoting liver fibrosis progression by triggering ERK activation and inhibiting apoptosis. It implies that the Gab1-mediated signaling pathway would be a promising therapeutic target to treat chronic liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Da-eun Nam
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Soo-Jeung Park
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Samson Omole
- School of Systems Biology, and Center for Infectious Disease Research, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Eugene Um
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Ramin M. Hakami
- School of Systems Biology, and Center for Infectious Disease Research, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Young S. Hahn
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mohan CD, Shanmugam MK, Gowda SGS, Chinnathambi A, Rangappa KS, Sethi G. c-MET pathway in human malignancies and its targeting by natural compounds for cancer therapy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155379. [PMID: 38503157 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND c-MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase which is classically activated by HGF to activate its downstream signaling cascades such as MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and STAT3. The c-MET modulates cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immune response, morphogenesis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. The c-MET has been shown to serve a prominent role in embryogenesis and early development. The c-MET pathway is deregulated in a broad range of malignancies, due to overexpression of ligands or receptors, genomic amplification, and MET mutations. The link between the deregulation of c-MET signaling and tumor progression has been well-documented. Overexpression or overactivation of c-MET is associated with dismal clinical outcomes and acquired resistance to targeted therapies. Since c-MET activation results in the triggering of oncogenic pathways, abrogating the c-MET pathway is considered to be a pivotal strategy in cancer therapeutics. Herein, an analysis of role of the c-MET pathway in human cancers and its relevance in bone metastasis and therapeutic resistance has been undertaken. Also, an attempt has been made to summarize the inhibitory activity of selected natural compounds towards c-MET signaling in cancers. METHODS The publications related to c-MET pathway in malignancies and its natural compound modulators were obtained from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and summarized based on PRISMA guidelines. Some of the keywords used for extracting relevant literature are c-MET, natural compound inhibitors of c-MET, c-MET in liver cancer, c-MET in breast cancer, c-MET in lung cancer, c-MET in pancreatic cancer, c-MET in head and neck cancer, c-MET in bone metastasis, c-MET in therapeutic resistance, and combination of c-MET inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents. The chemical structure of natural compounds was verified in PubChem database. RESULTS The search yielded 3935 publications, of which 195 reference publications were used for our analysis. Clinical trials were referenced using ClinicalTrials.gov identifier. The c-MET pathway has been recognized as a prominent target to combat the growth, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance in cancers. The key role of the c-MET in bone metastasis as well as therapeutic resistance has been elaborated. Also, suppressive effect of selected natural compounds on the c-MET pathway in clinical/preclinical studies has been discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Vishvigyan Bhawan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226 001, India
| | - Muthu K Shanmugam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | | | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kanchugarakoppal S Rangappa
- Institution of Excellence, Vijnana Bhavan, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore, Karnataka 570006, India.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yang MH, Lee M, Deivasigamani A, Le DD, Mohan CD, Hui KM, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Decanoic Acid Exerts Its Anti-Tumor Effects via Targeting c-Met Signaling Cascades in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Model. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4681. [PMID: 37835375 PMCID: PMC10571573 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
DA, one of the medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil, is suggested to have diverse biochemical functions. However, its possible role as a chemoprevention agent in HCC has not been deciphered. Aberrant activation of c-Met can modulate tumor growth and progression in HCC. Here, we report that DA exhibited pro-found anti-tumor effects on human HCC through the suppression of HGF/c-Met signaling cascades in vitro and in vivo. It was noted that DA inhibited HGF-induced activation of c-Met and its downstream signals. DA induced apoptotic cell death and inhibited the expression of diverse tumorigenic proteins. In addition, DA attenuated tumor growth and lung metastasis in the HCC mouse model. Similar to in vitro studies, DA also suppressed the expression of c-Met and its downstream signals in mice tissues. These results highlight the substantial potential of DA in the prevention and treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Yang
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Mina Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Sunchon National University, 255 Jungangno, Suncheon-si 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.L.); (D.D.L.)
| | - Amudha Deivasigamani
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 169610, Singapore; (A.D.); (K.M.H.)
| | - Duc Dat Le
- College of Pharmacy, Sunchon National University, 255 Jungangno, Suncheon-si 57922, Republic of Korea; (M.L.); (D.D.L.)
| | - Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- FEST Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Vishvigyan Bhawan, 31, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow 226001, Uttar Pradesh, India;
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 169610, Singapore; (A.D.); (K.M.H.)
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cytokines and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Biomarkers of a Deadly Embrace. J Pers Med 2022; 13:jpm13010005. [PMID: 36675666 PMCID: PMC9865677 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a worldwide health matter with a major care burden, high prevalence, and poor prognosis. Its pathogenesis mainly varies depending on the underlying etiological factors, although it develops from liver cirrhosis in the majority of cases. This review summarizes the role of the most interesting soluble factors as biomarkers for early diagnosis and as recommended targets for treatment in accordance with the new challenges in precision medicine. In the premalignant environment, inflammatory cells release a wide range of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, prostaglandins, and proangiogenic factors, making the liver environment more suitable for hepatocyte tumor progression that starts from acquired genetic mutations. A complex interaction of pro-inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-α and -β), pro-angiogenic molecules (including the Angiopoietins, HGF, PECAM-1, HIF-1α, VEGF), different transcription factors (NF-kB, STAT-3), and their signaling pathways are involved in the development of HCC. Since cytokines are expressed and released during the different stages of HCC progression, their measurement, by different available methods, can provide in-depth information on the identification and management of HCC.
Collapse
|
5
|
Pocino K, Napodano C, Marino M, Di Santo R, Miele L, De Matthaeis N, Gulli F, Saporito R, Rapaccini GL, Ciasca G, Basile U. A Comparative Study of Serum Angiogenic Biomarkers in Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010011. [PMID: 35008171 PMCID: PMC8750498 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The progression of liver disease is accompanied by pathological angiogenesis, a prerequisite for the development of HCC. In this paper, we analyzed the clinical significance of serum angiogenic markers VEGF, Ang-1, Ang-2, angiopoietin receptor Tie1/2, HGF, and PECAM-1 in 62 patients with liver disease, out of which 33 were diagnosed with HCC and 29 with liver cirrhosis without signs of neoplasia. Biomarkers levels were investigated as a function of “Model for End-Stage Liver Disease” (MELD) score and Fibrosis Index (FI). HCC patients showed higher HGF levels than ones with cirrhosis, while high Ang-1 levels appeared to have a protective role in HCC as well as prognostic significance; we also found a strong correlation between HGF levels, Ang-2, and VEGF levels, further supporting their role in tumor angiogenesis. Due to the complexity of angiogenesis and the small size of the study group, further investigations are widely desired especially in the era of immunotherapy and HCC-targeted anti-angiogenic drugs. Abstract Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health problem associated with chronic liver disease. Its pathogenesis varies according to the underlying etiological factors, although in most cases it develops from liver cirrhosis. The disease progression is accompanied by pathological angiogenesis, which is a prerequisite that favors the development of HCC. Aims: This study aims at contributing to our understanding of the role of angiogenic factors in the progression of liver disease. For this purpose, we evaluate the clinical significance of serum angiogenic markers (VEGF, Ang-1, Ang-2, the angiopoietin receptor Tie1/2, HGF, and PECAM-1) first in cirrhotic and HCC patients separately, and then comparing cirrhotic patients with and without HCC. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 62 patients, out of whom 33 were diagnosed with HCC and 29 with liver cirrhosis without signs of neoplasia. Patients underwent venous blood sampling before and after receiving treatments for the diagnosed disease. Serum markers were evaluated using ELISA assays for Tie1 and the Bio-Plex Multiplex system for the remaining ones. Biomarker levels were investigated as a function of clinical scores for disease staging (MELD and Fibrosis Index, FI). Results: In cirrhotic patients, Ang-1 and Ang-2 correlate with MELD (ρAng-1 = −0.73, p = 2E−5) and FI (ρAng-1 = −0.52, p = 7E−3, ρAng-2 = 0.53, p = 3E−3). A reduction of Ang-2 levels (p = 0.047) and of the Ang-2/Ang-1 ratio (p = 0.031) is observed in cirrhotic patients diagnosed with viral hepatitis after antiviral treatments. In HCC patients, Ang-1 negatively correlates with FI (ρ = −0.63, p = 1E−4), and PECAM-1 positively correlates with MELD (ρ = 0.44, p = 0.01). A significant Ang-1 reduction was observed in deceased patients during the study compared to ones who survived (p = 0.01). In HCC patients, VEGF levels were increased after tumor treatment (p = 0.037). Notably, HGF levels in cirrhotic patients with HCC are significantly raised (p = 0.017) compared to that in those without HCC. Conclusions: Our results suggest that serum angiogenic markers, with emphasis on Ang-1/2, can contribute to the development of quantitative tools for liver disease staging and therapy monitoring. The comparison between cirrhotic patients with and without HCC suggests that HGF levels are potentially useful for monitoring the insurgence of HCC after a cirrhosis diagnosis. High Ang-1 levels in HCC patients appear to have a protective role as well as prognostic significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krizia Pocino
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Generale di Zona San Pietro Fatebenefratelli, 00189 Rome, Italy; (K.P.); (R.S.)
| | | | - Mariapaola Marino
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Sezione di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (U.B.)
| | - Riccardo Di Santo
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Sezione di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.D.S.); (G.C.)
| | - Luca Miele
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Sezione di Medicina Interna, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (N.D.M.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Nicoletta De Matthaeis
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Sezione di Medicina Interna, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (N.D.M.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Francesca Gulli
- Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Madre Giuseppina Vannini, 00177 Rome, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Saporito
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale Generale di Zona San Pietro Fatebenefratelli, 00189 Rome, Italy; (K.P.); (R.S.)
| | - Gian Ludovico Rapaccini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Sezione di Medicina Interna, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (N.D.M.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Gabriele Ciasca
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Sezione di Fisica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (R.D.S.); (G.C.)
| | - Umberto Basile
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (U.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wong JSL, Dong Y, Tang V, Leung T, Yeung CSY, Tai A, Law A, Shum T, Kwok GGW, Li BCW, Leung R, Chiu J, Ma KW, She WH, Tsang J, Cheung TT, Yau T. The Use of Cabozantinib in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hong Kong-A Territory-Wide Cohort Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2002. [PMID: 33919277 PMCID: PMC8122581 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Cabozantinib is approved in sorafenib-exposed advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (aHCC). We evaluated the real-life pattern of use, efficacy, and tolerability of cabozantinib in aHCC. (2) Methods: This territory-wide study included consecutive aHCC patients who received cabozantinib between February 2018 and September 2020 in Hong Kong. The objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and adverse events (AE) were assessed. (3) Results: Overall, 42 patients were included. Approximately 83.3% had Child-Pugh A cirrhosis. About 64.3% received cabozantinib as a single agent, and the remaining 35.7% received cabozantinib as an add-on to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). For single-agent patients, the median follow-up was 6.7 months. The ORR was 3.7%, DCR was 44.4%, and the median OS was 8.28 months. About 74.1% of patients experienced any AEs with 7.4% having grade ≥3 AEs. Among patients who received prior ICIs (n = 16), the ORR was 6.3%, and the median OS was 8.28 months. An exploratory analysis of patients who received cabozantinib as an add-on to ICIs showed an ORR of 6.7% and a median OS of 15.1 months, with 73.3% having any AE and 13.3% having grade ≥3 AEs. (4) Conclusions: Cabozantinib had good anti-tumor activity, survival benefits, and acceptable tolerability in real-life aHCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Sum-Lung Wong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Yawen Dong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Vikki Tang
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Thomas Leung
- Department of Medicine, Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital, Hong Kong, China;
| | | | - Anna Tai
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Ada Law
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Tracy Shum
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Gerry Gin-Wai Kwok
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Bryan Cho-Wing Li
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Roland Leung
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Joanne Chiu
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Ka-Wing Ma
- Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.W.-M.); (W.H.-S.); (T.T.-C.)
| | - Wong-Hoi She
- Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.W.-M.); (W.H.-S.); (T.T.-C.)
| | - Josephine Tsang
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| | - Tan-To Cheung
- Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.W.-M.); (W.H.-S.); (T.T.-C.)
| | - Thomas Yau
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (J.S.-L.W.); (Y.D.); (V.T.); (G.G.-W.K.); (B.C.-W.L.); (R.L.); (J.C.); (J.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yu J, Chen GG, Lai PBS. Targeting hepatocyte growth factor/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor axis in hepatocellular carcinoma: Rationale and therapeutic strategies. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:507-524. [PMID: 33026703 DOI: 10.1002/med.21738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. The outcome of current standard treatments, as well as targeted therapies in advanced stages, are still unsatisfactory. Attention has been drawn to novel strategies for better treatment efficacy. Hepatocyte growth factor/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (HGF/c-Met) axis has been known as an essential element in the regulation of liver diseases and as an oncogenic factor in HCC. In this review, we collected the evidence of HGF/c-Met as a tumor progression and prognostic marker, discussed the anti-c-Met therapy in vitro, summarized the outcome of c-Met inhibitors in clinical trials, and identified potential impetus for future anti-c-Met treatments. We also analyzed the inconsistency of HGF/c-Met from various publications and offered reasonable explanations based on the current understanding in this area. In conclusion, HGF/c-Met plays a crucial role in the progression and growth of HCC, and the strategies to inhibit this pathway may facilitate the development of new and effective treatments for HCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianqing Yu
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - George G Chen
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Paul B S Lai
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Radik M, Kmecova Z, Veteskova J, Malikova E, Doka G, Krenek P, Klimas J. Hepatocyte growth factor plays a particular role in progression of overall cardiac damage in experimental pulmonary hypertension. Int J Med Sci 2019; 16:854-863. [PMID: 31337959 PMCID: PMC6643116 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.31690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: HGF/MET pathway may have a role in pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the link between the pathway and development of target organ damage in PH remains elusive. We aimed to demonstrate the relation between plasma HGF and HGF/MET tissue expressions in affected organs during PH progression. Methods: 12 weeks old male Wistar rats were injected with monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg, s.c.) to induce PH and sacrificed after 1, 2 and 4 weeks. Controls received saline. mRNA levels of HGF regulatory complex (Hgf, Met, Hgfa, Hai-1, Hai-2) were determined in right and left ventricles (RV, LV), lungs, pulmonary artery and liver by RT-qPCR. HGF protein levels in plasma were analysed by ELISA. Results: PH development was associated with a progressive elevation of HGF plasma levels that correlated with relative RV mass. Furthermore, Hgf mRNA expressions at week 4 were upregulated solely in the cardiac ventricles while being downregulated in a. pulmonalis, lungs and liver. Met and Hai-1/Hai-2 followed a similar pattern and were upregulated in cardiac ventricles, where Hgfa remained unchanged, but downregulated in lungs. Conclusion: We suggest that cardiac overexpression of Hgf might contribute to increased plasma HGF in MCT-induced PH. HGF could be exploited as a cardiospecific biomarker and HGF/MET pathway as a target in drug discovery for PH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michal Radik
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Zuzana Kmecova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Jana Veteskova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Eva Malikova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Gabriel Doka
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Peter Krenek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Jan Klimas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Odbojarov 10, 83232 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Salum GM, Bader El Din NG, Ibrahim MK, Dawood RM, Farouk S, El Awady MK. Correlation Between TGF-β1 and c-MET Expression in HCV Genotype 4-Induced Liver Fibrosis. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1089/jir.2018.0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ghada M. Salum
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha G. Bader El Din
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Marwa K. Ibrahim
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reham M. Dawood
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sally Farouk
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mostafa K. El Awady
- Genetic Engineering Division, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bouattour M, Raymond E, Qin S, Cheng A, Stammberger U, Locatelli G, Faivre S. Recent developments of c-Met as a therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2018; 67:1132-1149. [PMID: 28862760 PMCID: PMC5873445 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant c-Met activity has been implicated in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), suggesting that c-Met inhibition may have therapeutic potential. However, clinical trials of nonselective kinase inhibitors with c-Met activity (tivantinib, cabozantinib, foretinib, and golvatinib) in patients with HCC have failed so far to demonstrate significant efficacy. This lack of observed efficacy is likely due to several factors, including trial design, lack of patient selection according to tumor c-Met status, and the prevalent off-target activity of these agents, which may indicate that c-Met inhibition is incomplete. In contrast, selective c-Met inhibitors (tepotinib, capmatinib) can be dosed at a level predicted to achieve complete inhibition of tumor c-Met activity. Moreover, results from early trials can be used to optimize the design of clinical trials of these agents. Preliminary results suggest that selective c-Met inhibitors have antitumor activity in HCC, with acceptable safety and tolerability in patients with Child-Pugh A liver function. Ongoing trials have been designed to assess the efficacy and safety of selective c-Met inhibition compared with standard therapy in patients with HCC that were selected based on tumor c-Met status. Thus, c-Met inhibition continues to be an active area of research in HCC, with well-designed trials in progress to investigate the benefit of selective c-Met inhibitors. (Hepatology 2018;67:1132-1149).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Bouattour
- Digestive Oncology DepartmentBeaujon University HospitalClichyFrance
| | - Eric Raymond
- Oncology UnitGroupe Hospitalier Paris Saint JosephParisFrance
| | - Shukui Qin
- Medical Oncology DepartmentNanjing Bayi HospitalNanjingChina
| | | | | | | | - Sandrine Faivre
- Medical Oncology DepartmentBeaujon University HospitalClichyFrance
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yang YM, Fukui M, Wang Z, Miao F, Karriker MJ, Seki E. Interventional Potential of Recombinant Feline Hepatocyte Growth Factor in a Mouse Model of Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:378. [PMID: 30083132 PMCID: PMC6064873 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional pleiotropic protein involved in tissue regeneration, protection, angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic responses, and tumorigenesis, through binding to its receptor MET. Recombinant HGF protein has been shown to mitigate various liver disease models, such as alcohol-induced liver injury, hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury, and fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-lipogenic effects of exogenous administration of feline HGF on a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model. Methods: Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were fed a choline-deficient amino acid defined (CDAA) diet for 3 weeks to create the mouse model of NASH, which displays hepatic steatosis, inflammation, injury, and very mild fibrosis. One mg/kg of recombinant feline HGF was administered intravenously daily in the last 7 days of the total 3 weeks of CDAA diet feeding. Then, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, injury, and fibrogenic gene expression was examined. Results: After 3 weeks of a CDAA diet-feeding, the vehicle-treated mice exhibited evident deposition of lipid droplets in hepatocytes, inflammatory cell infiltration, and hepatocyte ballooning along with increased serum ALT levels whereas recombinant HGF-treated mice showed reduced hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and ballooned hepatocytes with a reduction of serum ALT levels. Recombinant HGF administration promoted hepatocyte proliferation. Increased hepatic lipid accumulation was accompanied by elevated expression of lipogenesis genes Fasn and Dgat1 in vehicle-treated mice. In HGF-treated mice, these genes were reduced with a decrease of lipid accumulation in the liver. Consistent with the anti-inflammatory property of HGF, augmented macrophage infiltration and upregulation of chemokines, Cxcl1, Ccl2, and Ccl5 in the CDAA diet fed mice, were suppressed by the addition of the HGF treatment. Finally, we examined the fibrotic response. The vehicle-treated mice had mild fibrosis with upregulation of Col1a1, Acta2, Timp1, Tgfb1, and Serpine1 expression. Recombinant HGF treatment significantly suppressed fibrogenic gene expression and collagen deposition in the liver. Conclusion: Recombinant feline HGF treatment suppressed the progression of NASH in a CDAA diet feeding mouse model.This suggests that recombinant HGF protein has therapeutic potential for NASH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Mee Yang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Masato Fukui
- Veterinary Medical Center–San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Zhijun Wang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Fiona Miao
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Margo J. Karriker
- Veterinary Medical Center–San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ekihiro Seki
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Ekihiro Seki
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang Y, Du Z, Zhang M. Biomarker development in MET-targeted therapy. Oncotarget 2016; 7:37370-37389. [PMID: 27013592 PMCID: PMC5095083 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the MET receptor tyrosine kinase by its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), has been implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, survival, migration, motility and invasion, all of which may be enhanced in human cancers. Aberrantly activated MET/HGF signaling correlates with tumorigenesis and metastasis, and is regarded as a robust target for the development of novel anti-cancer treatments. Various clinical trials were conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of selective HGF/MET inhibitors in cancer patients. There is currently no optimal or standardized method for accurate and reliable assessment of MET levels, or other biomarkers that are predictive of the patient response to MET-targeted therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the importance of accurate HGF/MET signal detection as a predictive biomarker to guide patient selection for clinical trials of MET-targeted therapies in human cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Zhang
- Amgen Biopharmaceutical Research and Development (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Du
- Amgen Biopharmaceutical Research and Development (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingqiang Zhang
- Amgen Biopharmaceutical Research and Development (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Okuma HS, Kondo S. Trends in the development of MET inhibitors for hepatocellular carcinoma. Future Oncol 2016; 12:1275-86. [PMID: 26984595 DOI: 10.2217/fon.16.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib has improved survival and is now considered the standard of care; however, the benefits are still disappointing, and thus, new effective treatments are required. In human hepatocellular carcinoma, MET, which is encoded by the HGFR gene, is activated by amplification, overexpression or mutation, and it has recently emerged as a possible therapeutic target in various tumors including hepatocellular carcinoma. In fact, some drugs targeting the HGF/MET axis are currently under investigation in clinical trials. Here, we review the role of MET and trends in the development of MET inhibitors for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitomi S Okuma
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kondo
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Firtina Karagonlar Z, Koc D, Iscan E, Erdal E, Atabey N. Elevated hepatocyte growth factor expression as an autocrine c-Met activation mechanism in acquired resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Sci 2016; 107:407-16. [PMID: 26790028 PMCID: PMC4832867 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and the third leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. Limitations in HCC treatment result due to poor prognosis and resistance against traditional radiotherapy and chemotherapies. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is the only FDA approved drug available for advanced HCC patients, and development of second‐line treatment options for patients who cannot tolerate or develop resistance to sorafenib is an urgent medical need. In this study, we established sorafenib‐resistant cells from Huh7 and Mahlavu cell lines by long‐term sorafenib exposure. Sorafenib‐resistant HCC cells acquired spindle‐shape morphology, upregulated mesenchymal markers, and showed significant increase in both migration and invasion abilities compared to their parental counterparts. Moreover, after long‐term sorafenib treatment, HCC cells showed induction of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) synthesis and secretion along with increased levels of c‐Met kinase and its active phosphorylated form, indicating autocrine activation of HGF/c‐Met signaling. Importantly, the combined treatment of the resistant cells with c‐Met kinase inhibitor SU11274 and HGF neutralizing antibody significantly reversed the increased invasion ability of the cells. The combined treatment also significantly augmented sorafenib‐induced apoptosis, suggesting restoration of sorafenib sensitivity. These results describe, for the first time, compensatory upregulation of HGF synthesis leading to autocrine activation of HGF/c‐Met signaling as a novel cellular strategy in the acquisition of sorafenib resistance. Therefore, we suggest that combinatorial therapeutic strategies with HGF and c‐Met inhibitors comprise promising candidates for overcoming sorafenib resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Firtina Karagonlar
- Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir.,Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir
| | - Dogukan Koc
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir
| | - Evin Iscan
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir
| | - Esra Erdal
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Neşe Atabey
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Giordano S, Columbano A. Met as a therapeutic target in HCC: facts and hopes. J Hepatol 2014; 60:442-52. [PMID: 24045150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and its burden is expected to increase further in the next years. In spite of the advances of classical therapies, such as surgery, transplantation, use of radiofrequency and transarterial embolization, the prognosis of this neoplasm has not considerably improved over the past few years. The advent of targeted therapies and the approval of the systemic treatment of advanced HCC with the kinase inhibitor sorafenib have provided some hope for the future. Even if the molecular mechanisms responsible for the onset and progression of HCC are still largely unknown, new therapeutic targets have recently come to the spotlight. One of these targets is the tyrosine kinase receptor for the Hepatocyte Growth Factor, encoded by the MET gene, known to promote tumor growth and metastasis in many human organs. In this review we will summarize the contrasting results obtained in vitro (in HCC cell lines) and in animal experimental models and we will also try to analyze the reasons for the opposite findings, suggesting that the HGF/MET axis can have either a promoting or a suppressive role in the development of HCC. We will also reconsider the evidence of activation of this pathway in human HCCs and discuss the results of the clinical trials performed with MET inhibitors. The final purpose is to better clarify which can be the role of MET as a therapeutic target in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giordano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), 10060 Candiolo (Torino), Italy.
| | - Amedeo Columbano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite improvements in local therapies, including surgical resection, liver transplantation, and transarterial embolization, the prognosis remains poor for the majority of patients who develop recurrence or present with advanced disease. Systemic therapy with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib represents a milestone in advanced HCC but provides a limited survival benefit. Ongoing efforts to study hepatocarcinogenesis have identified an important role for c-MET signaling in the promotion of tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In this review, we summarize the preclinical data from human tissue, cell lines, and animal models that implicate c-MET in the pathogenesis of HCC. We also evaluate potential biomarkers that may estimate prognosis or predict response to c-MET inhibitors for more rational clinical trial design. Finally, we discuss the latest clinical trials of c-MET inhibitors in advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lipika Goyal
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gao JJ, Inagaki Y, Xue X, Qu XJ, Tang W. c-Met: A potential therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Discov Ther 2012; 5:2-11. [PMID: 22466090 DOI: 10.5582/ddt.2011.v5.1.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The approval of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) targeted agent sorafenib as the first effective drug for the systemic treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a milestone in the treatment of this disease. A better understanding of HCC pathogenesis will lead to development of novel targeted treatments. As a typical member of the RTK family, c-Met represents an intriguing target for cancer therapy. The c-Met signaling pathway has been shown to be deregulated and to correlate with poor prognosis in a number of major human cancers. This review discusses the possibility of c-Met as a target in HCC treatment from the following respects: i) c-Met expression and activation profile in HCC, ii) relationship between c-Met and clinicopathologic state and prognosis of HCC, iii) role of c-Met signaling activity in HCC genesis and progression, and iv) strategy of c-Met pathway targeting therapy in HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J J Gao
- Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gao J, Inagaki Y, Song P, Qu X, Kokudo N, Tang W. Targeting c-Met as a promising strategy for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Pharmacol Res 2011; 65:23-30. [PMID: 22138044 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2011.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a severe condition that is found worldwide. Liver transplantation, surgical resection, and local-regional therapy such as transarterial chemoembolization have made great progress and play a dominant role in HCC management. However, the high frequency of tumor recurrence and/or metastasis after those treatments acquires systematic drug intervention. The approval of sorafenib, an agent that targets receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), as the first effective drug for systemic treatment of HCC represents a milestone in treatment of this disease. As a typical member of the RTK family, c-Met represents an intriguing target for cancer therapy. However, the role of the c-Met signal transduction pathway is less unambiguous in HCC pathology, giving rise to concerns about the feasibility of utilizing c-Met targeting approaches for HCC treatment. Recently, studies on des-γ-carboxy prothrombin, an abnormal cytokine secreted by HCC cells, by the current authors and other researchers have highlighted the critical role of c-Met signaling in HCC progression. This review takes a second look at the c-Met signal transduction pathway and discusses the possibility of targeting c-Met as a therapeutic strategy for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bilezikçi B, Demirhan B, Ozdemir N, Elsürer R. Expression of Hepatocyte Growth Factor in Chronic Hepatitis: Effect of Hemodialysis. Ren Fail 2009; 28:557-60. [PMID: 17050238 DOI: 10.1080/08860220600840116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Elevated serum levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) have been documented in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) and with chronic hepatitis (CH). The aim of this study was to determine the presence and density of HGF in liver tissue and the source of this factor in HD patient with CH. MATERIAL AND METHODS Seventy-five hepatic needle-biopsy specimens were investigated, 11 from CH patients (Group 1) and 44 from CH patients on HD (Group 2), plus 20 liver biopsies obtained from healthy individuals as controls (Group 3). All specimens were analyzed immunohistochemically with an HGF antibody. RESULTS Groups 1 (CH only) and 2 (CH + HD) had significantly (p < 0.05) more HGF-positive nonparenchymal cells than the control group. Also, specimens from CH-only patients (Group 1) had significantly (p < 0.05) more positive staining than those from CH patients on HD (Group 2). Groups 1 and 2 had similar results for grading of CH and fibrosis score. No association was found between the number of HGF-positive cells and necroinflammatory or fibrosis score. CONCLUSIONS The expression of HGF in liver tissue in CH patients on HD was much lower than in CH-only patients. The extrahepatic tissue might be the source of increased HGF serum levels in HD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Banu Bilezikçi
- Başkent University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kern MA, Breuhahn K, Schuchmann M, Schirmacher P. [Molecular pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma: new therapeutic approaches and predictive pathology]. DER PATHOLOGE 2008; 28:261-8. [PMID: 17605064 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-007-0890-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide and its incidence is increasing. Multimodal strategies directed towards this carcinoma include primary (e.g. immunisation) and secondary (e.g. antiviral therapy) prevention, surgical approaches, novel specific systemic therapies (targeted therapy), and the treatment of comorbidity (cirrhosis). New molecular approaches are currently under development. These tackle several specific targets, with pathology being challenged in many aspects: experimental evaluation, the development of valid tumor-relevant diagnostic tests as well as morphological evaluation in the context of clinical studies, and finally in routine diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Kern
- Pathologisches Institut, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 220/221, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lee KH, Choi EY, Hyun MS, Jang BI, Kim TN, Lee HJ, Eun JY, Kim HG, Yoon SS, Lee DS, Kim JH, Kim JR. Role of hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met signaling in regulating urokinase plasminogen activator on invasiveness in human hepatocellular carcinoma: a potential therapeutic target. Clin Exp Metastasis 2007; 25:89-96. [PMID: 17992475 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-007-9106-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2007] [Accepted: 09/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), its transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor (c-Met), and urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) is a key protein in the plasminogen activation system, which plays a proteolytically important role in the invasion and metastasis of various types of cancers. However, the mechanisms by which HGF/c-Met signaling mediates cancer progression and metastasis are unclear. This study was designed to investigate the roles of HGF/c-Met in tumor progression and metastasis in HepG2 and Hep3B hepatoma cell lines. Treatment with HGF increased c-Met phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner. Activity of c-Met phosphorylation peaked 1-3 min after HGF treatment and then declined. HGF enhanced the protein level and the activity of uPA in HepG2 and Hep3B cells, and the uPAR protein level also increased in a HGF dose-dependent manner. HGF increased cell invasion through the Matrigel. A monoclonal antibody against human uPA receptor, mAb 3936, inhibited HGF-mediated tumor cell invasion in a dose-dependent manner. Down-regulation of uPA using uPA-shRNA induced a decrease in in vitro cell invasion. These results suggest that hepatoma cells express functional c-Met, which may provide a target for a therapeutic basis to interfere with metastases of cancer cells by inhibiting uPA system-mediated proteolysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Hee Lee
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chau GY, Lui WY, Chi CW, Chau YP, Li AF, Kao HL, Wu CW. Significance of serum hepatocyte growth factor levels in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing hepatic resection. Eur J Surg Oncol 2007; 34:333-8. [PMID: 17218078 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2006.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2006] [Accepted: 12/05/2006] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a potent hepatocyte mitogen and may stimulate the proliferation and invasiveness of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells through the c-met receptor. This study evaluates the significance of serum HGF levels in patients undergoing HCC resection. STUDY DESIGN The peripheral and portal sera and HCC and non-tumorous tissues of 40 HCC patients, with tumor TNM stage I (n=12), II (n=17), and III (n=11) diseases, who underwent hepatic resection were prospectively collected. Serum HGF levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The c-met protein expressions were examined by immunohistochemistry. Median follow-up time was 69 months. RESULTS The prehepatectomy portal HGF levels (median, 622pg/mL) were significantly higher than peripheral HGF levels (564pg/mL) (P=0.026). The posthepatectomy portal HGF levels (699pg/mL) were significantly higher than prehepatectomy portal HGF levels (P<0.001). C-met expression was detected in 87.5% HCC and in 85.0% non-tumorous liver tissues. By Cox multivariate analysis, posthepatectomy portal HGF level >699pg/mL (P<0.001), multiple tumors (P=0.042), and TNM stages II (P=0.019) and III (P=0.009) were independent factors related with survival. Patients with a posthepatectomy portal HCG level >699pg/mL and with a positive c-met expression in HCC tissue have the worst survival. CONCLUSIONS In HCC patients, high peripheral and portal HGF serum levels related with poor prognosis after hepatic resection. Hepatocyte growth factor and c-met receptor can be targets of future HCC postoperative treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G-Y Chau
- Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 201, Shih-pai Road, Section 2, Shih-pai, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Breuhahn K, Longerich T, Schirmacher P. Dysregulation of growth factor signaling in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2006; 25:3787-800. [PMID: 16799620 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1209556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 432] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of pleiotropic growth factors, receptors and their downstream signaling pathway components represent a central protumorigenic principle in human hepatocarcinogenesis. Especially the Insulin-like Growth Factor/IGF-1 receptor (IGF/IGF-1R), Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF/MET), Wingless (Wnt/beta-catenin/FZD), Transforming Growth Factor alpha/Epidermal Growth Factor receptor (TGFalpha/EGFR) and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFbeta/TbetaR) pathways contribute to proliferation, antiapoptosis and invasive behavior of tumor cells. This review focuses on the relevant alterations in these pathways identified in human human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). Resultant functional effects are modulated by multiple cross-talks between the different signaling pathways and additional tumor-relevant factors, such as cyclooxygenase-2 and p53. Several specific strategies are currently under development such as receptor kinase inhibitors, neutralizing antibodies and antagonistic proteins, which may improve the systemic treatment of human HCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Breuhahn
- Institute of Pathology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Thasler WE, Schlott T, Thelen P, Hellerbrand C, Bataille F, Lichtenauer M, Schlitt HJ, Jauch KW, Weiss TS. Expression of augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR) in human liver cirrhosis and carcinoma. Histopathology 2005; 47:57-66. [PMID: 15982324 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2005.02172.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the expression of a protein termed augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR), recently found to have a specific and beneficial effect on the process of liver regeneration in normal and diseased human liver. METHODS AND RESULTS ALR expression in normal and cirrhotic human livers with various underlying diseases as well as in tissue samples of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocellular carcinoma (CCC) was analysed by immunohistochemistry and quantitative reverse transciptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Expression analysis of ALR in total liver protein extracts by Western blotting showed mainly dimeric ALR protein. Immunohistochemically, cytosolic and perinuclear immunosignals were found in hepatocytes and cholangiocytes in normal, cirrhotic or cancerous liver tissue and only weak signals in some endothelial cells in normal livers. Quantitative mRNA analysis revealed significantly increased ALR expression in cirrhosis compared with normal liver tissue. In HCC and CCC ALR mRNA expression was also significantly enhanced compared with normal liver tissue, but expression levels did not differ from the matching non-neoplastic tissue in the same patient. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest an important role for ALR in hepatocellular regeneration in liver cirrhosis as well as in hepatocarcinogenesis and therefore its potential value in the clinical diagnosis of hepatic cirrhosis and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W E Thasler
- Department of Surgery, Ludwig Maximillians University of Munich Hospital Grosshadern, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Nagamatsu H, Itano S, Nagaoka S, Akiyoshi J, Matsugaki S, Kurogi J, Tajiri N, Yamasaki S, Koga H, Torimura T, Kumashiro R, Sata M. Prophylactic lamivudine administration prevents exacerbation of liver damage in HBe antigen positive patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing transhepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy. Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:2369-75. [PMID: 15571585 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.40069.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Exacerbation of liver damage during transhepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (THAIC) is a critical complication in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We previously reported that HBe antigen positivity was the associating factor for the exacerbation of liver damage. In the present study, we investigated the effect of lamivudine administration for exacerbation of liver damage in such patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS Seventeen patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma who received THAIC were reviewed. Eight of these patients received lamivudine administration. Nine patients did not receive lamivudine administration. All patients were HBe antigen positive. Liver function tests, liver enzymes, HBV-DNA levels, HBe antigen, HBe antibody, and mutation in the precore and core-promoter regions of HBV DNA were evaluated. RESULTS In the lamivudine-treated group, HBV-DNA levels were significantly reduced and did not increase throughout chemotherapy. Lamivudine did not induce any changes in precore or core-promoter regions. Although levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), asparate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, and prothrombin time (PT) in the lamivudine-treated group did not change, levels of ALT, AST and total bilirubin increased, and PT were prolonged in the untreated group by chemotherapy. No patients receiving lamivudine administration showed exacerbation of liver damage. Exacerbation of liver damage was detected in six patients without lamivudine administration. Of these, three patients died of progressive liver failure due to reactivation of HBV. CONCLUSION These results indicate that prophylactic lamivudine administration reduces HBV-DNA levels and prevents exacerbation of liver damage throughout the period of chemotherapy in HBe antigen positive patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Nagamatsu
- Second Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 830-0011 Kurume, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/etiology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/prevention & control
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/virology
- Cell Adhesion/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic
- Cell Transformation, Viral
- Chronic Disease
- Genes, cdc
- Genes, p53
- Growth Substances/physiology
- Hepacivirus/pathogenicity
- Hepatitis B virus/pathogenicity
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/complications
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/virology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/complications
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/virology
- Humans
- Liver Diseases/complications
- Liver Diseases/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/etiology
- Liver Neoplasms/genetics
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/prevention & control
- Liver Neoplasms/virology
- Neoplasm Invasiveness/genetics
- Neoplasm Metastasis
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/genetics
- Precancerous Conditions/complications
- Precancerous Conditions/pathology
Collapse
|
27
|
Niimi S, Hyuga M, Kazama H, Inagawa M, Seki T, Ariga T, Kobayashi T, Hayakawa T. Activins A, AB, and B inhibit hepatocyte growth factor synthesis by MRC-5 human lung fibroblasts. Biol Pharm Bull 2002; 25:1405-8. [PMID: 12419948 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.25.1405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The effect of activins A, AB, and B on hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) synthesis stimulated by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol beta-acetate (TPA) was studied in MRC-5 human lung fibroblasts. Activins A, AB, and B inhibited the increase in HGF secretion induced by TPA in different dose-dependent manners and potencies. At 5 ng/ml, activins A and AB inhibited the increase approximately 30% and 10%, respectively, and at 25 ng/ml both activins produced almost maximal inhibition, i.e., approximately 40%. Activin B caused 10% inhibition at 12 ng/ml, and at 25 ng/ml produced almost maximal inhibition, approximately 30%. Further analysis with activin A indicated that the inhibition was caused by decreased HGF mRNA levels, followed by decreased cellular HGF levels. At 25 ng/ml, activin A inhibited the increase in HGF in the cellular lysate and the increase in HGF mRNA level approximately 80% and 40%, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Niimi
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Biologicals, National Institute of Health Sciences, Tokyo, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Feitelson MA, Sun B, Satiroglu Tufan NL, Liu J, Pan J, Lian Z. Genetic mechanisms of hepatocarcinogenesis. Oncogene 2002; 21:2593-604. [PMID: 11971194 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1205434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2001] [Revised: 02/15/2002] [Accepted: 02/21/2002] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multistep process associated with changes in host gene expression, some of which correlate with the appearance and progression of tumor. Preneoplastic changes in gene expression result from altered DNA methylation, the actions of hepatitis B and C viruses, and point mutations or loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in selected cellular genes. Tumor progression is characterized by LOH involving tumor suppressor genes on many chromosomes and by gene amplification of selected oncogenes. The changes observed in different HCC nodules are often distinct, suggesting heterogeneity on the molecular level. These observations suggest that there are multiple, perhaps redundant negative growth regulatory pathways that protect cells against transformation. An understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of HCC may provide new markers for tumor staging, for assessment of the relative risk of tumor formation, and open new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Feitelson
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wang R, Ferrell LD, Faouzi S, Maher JJ, Bishop JM. Activation of the Met receptor by cell attachment induces and sustains hepatocellular carcinomas in transgenic mice. J Cell Biol 2001; 153:1023-34. [PMID: 11381087 PMCID: PMC2174327 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.153.5.1023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression is the most common abnormality of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in human tumors. It is presumed that overexpression leads to constitutive activation of RTKs, but the mechanism of that activation has been uncertain. Here we show that overexpression of the Met RTK allows activation of the receptor by cell attachment and that this form of activation can be tumorigenic. Transgenic mice that overexpressed Met in hepatocytes developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the human tumors in which Met has been implicated previously. The tumorigenic Met was activated by cell attachment rather than by ligand. Inactivation of the transgene led to regression of even highly advanced tumors, apparently mediated by apoptosis and cessation of cellular proliferation. These results reveal a previously unappreciated mechanism by which the tumorigenic action of RTKs can be mediated, provide evidence that Met may play a role in both the genesis and maintenance of HCC, and suggest that Met may be a beneficial therapeutic target in tumors that overexpress the receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Wang
- G.W. Hooper Foundation and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Guirouilh J, Le Bail B, Boussarie L, Balabaud C, Bioulac-Sage P, Desmoulière A, Schuppan D, Rosenbaum J. Expression of hepatocyte growth factor in human hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2001; 34:78-83. [PMID: 11211911 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-8278(00)00014-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We have shown that hepatocyte growth factor, secreted by human liver myofibroblasts, promoted in vitro invasion of human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. The aim of this work was to measure hepatocyte growth factor expression in 29 human hepatocellular carcinomas and the corresponding peri-tumoral livers. METHODS We used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, in situ hybridization, ELISA and Western blot. RESULTS Sixty-two of tested hepatocellular carcinomas were positive by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. With in situ hybridization, a signal was found in every sample. In many cases, the signal was localized in cells labeled with an anti-smooth muscle alpka-actin antibody, while hepatocytes were mostly non-labeled. ELISA, performed in 15 pairs of hepatocellular carcinomas and surrounding livers, detected hepatocyte growth factor in every sample with wide variations. Hepatocellular carcinomas that had developed in non-cirrhotic livers contained essentially the same amount of hepatocyte growth factor as the matching non-tumoral liver. In cirrhotic livers, the hepatocyte growth factor content of the tumors was significantly lower than that of the surrounding cirrhotic livers. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that hepatocyte growth factor is expressed at significant levels in every hepatocellular carcinoma tested and that its expression takes place in the stromal myofibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Guirouilh
- Groupe de Recherches pour I'Etude du Foie, INSERM E9917, Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tavian D, De Petro G, Benetti A, Portolani N, Giulini SM, Barlati S. u-PA and c-MET mRNA expression is co-ordinately enhanced while hepatocyte growth factor mRNA is down-regulated in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2000. [DOI: 10.1002/1097-0215(20000901)87:5<644::aid-ijc4>3.0.co;2-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
32
|
Masson S, Scotté M, François A, Coeffier M, Provot F, Hiron M, Ténière P, Fallu J, Salier JP, Daveau M. Changes in growth factor and cytokine mRNA levels after hepatectomy in rat with CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY 1999; 277:G838-46. [PMID: 10516150 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.1999.277.4.g838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhotic liver is considered to regenerate less actively than normal liver after hepatic resection. However, the mechanisms responsible for this impaired regeneration and the cross talk of implicated factors still remain unclear. In the present study, mRNA levels for cyclins, growth factors, and cytokines were quantitatively assessed by a RT-PCR method at different times after hepatectomy in order to determine the relationships between these factors and the impaired regenerative process observed in cirrhotic liver. In our model of CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis, mRNA levels for cyclins and thymidine kinase provide evidence for the impaired and delayed hepatic regeneration. Moreover, we observed a significant decrease in interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA and a significant increase for IL-1beta mRNA. No significant change of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mRNA level was detected, contrasting with the decrease both at mRNA and protein levels in the expression of the c-Met/HGF receptor. Therefore, the impaired regeneration of the cirrhotic liver is associated not only with a lowered level of signals that normally promote liver growth but also with a strong decrease in c-Met receptor despite a normal expression of its specific ligand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Masson
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 519 and Institut Fédératif de Recherches Multidisciplinaires sur les Peptides, 76 183 Rouen, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Rouen, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Neaud V, Faouzi S, Guirouilh J, Monvoisin A, Rosenbaum J. Hepatocyte growth factor secreted by human liver myofibroblasts increases invasiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. CURRENT TOPICS IN PATHOLOGY. ERGEBNISSE DER PATHOLOGIE 1999; 93:195-203. [PMID: 10339912 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-58456-5_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- V Neaud
- Groupe de Recherches pour l'Etude du Foie, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Luo YQ, Wu MC, Cong WM. Gene expression of hepatocyte growth factor and its receptor in HCC and nontumorous liver tissues. World J Gastroenterol 1999; 5:119-121. [PMID: 11819407 PMCID: PMC4688520 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v5.i2.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To study the changes of gene expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFr) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissue and nontumorous liver tissue and the relationship between these changes and the biological behavior of the tumor.
METHODS Gene expression of HGF and HGFr in 26 cases of HCC tissue and their adjacent nontumorous liver tissues was determined with digoxigenin-labeled DNA probes.
RESULTS Positive expression of HGF in HCC tissue was similar to that in the adjacent nontumorous liver tissue, but positive rate of HGF expression was lower than HGFr gene expression. However, HGFr expression was higher in the metastatic cases than in those without metastasis. It was found that HGFr was overexpressed in HCC tissue as well as in the adjacent nontumorous liver tissue.
CONCLUSION There seems to be a close relationship between overexpression of HGFr gene and tumor metastasis, and the HGF and HGFr system pla ys an important role in regulating tumor growth and metastasis.
Collapse
|