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da Fonseca IIM, Nagamine MK, Sato A, Rossatto-Jr CA, Yeh ES, Dagli MLZ. Inhibitory Effects of Alpha-Connexin Carboxyl-Terminal Peptide on Canine Mammary Epithelial Cells: A Study on Benign and Malignant Phenotypes. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:820. [PMID: 38398211 PMCID: PMC10887206 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammary cancer is highly prevalent in non-castrated female dogs. Cell-to-cell communication is an important mechanism to maintain homeostasis, and connexins are proteins that assemble to form the communicating gap junctions. In many cancers, communication capacity is reduced; several approaches are being tested in order to increase the communication capacity in cancer cells and, therefore, alter their viability. This study analyzed the effects of the alpha-connexin carboxyl-terminal peptide (αCT1) on canine mammary non-neoplastic and neoplastic epithelial cells. Seven canine epithelial mammary cell lines were used. Among these, one was a normal canine epithelial mammary cell line (LOEC-NMG), two canine mammary adenomas (LOEC-MAd1 and LOEC-MAd2), and four canine mammary adenocarcinomas (LOEC-MCA1, LOEC-MCA2, LOEC-MCA3 and CF41). The αCT1 corresponds to a short Cx43 C-terminal sequence linked to an internalization sequence called the antennapedia. After 24 h of incubation, the medium containing different αCT1 peptide concentrations was added to the cells, and only the culture medium was used for control. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test was used to quantify cell viability before treatment and 48, 72, and 96 h after the treatment. Results showed that the normal mammary epithelial cell line (LOEC-NMG) was resistant to treatment with αCT1, which is consistent with a previous study on human mammary cell lines. One of the adenoma cell lines (LOEC-MAd2) was also resistant to treatment with αCT1, although the other (LOEC-MAd1) was susceptible to treatment, mostly at 72 h after treatment. Regarding the four canine adenocarcinoma cell lines, they differ regarding the susceptibility to the treatment with αCT1. Three cell lines, canine mixed adenocarcinoma (LOEC-MCA1), canine complex adenocarcinoma (LOEC-MCA2), and commercial canine mammary adenocarcinoma cell line CF41, were susceptible to treatment with αCT1, while one canine mammary adenocarcinoma cell line (LOEC-MCA3) was resistant to treatment. In most αCT1 treated cell lines, Cx43 was strongly detected in cell membranes by immunofluorescence. We propose that αCT1 restored the cell-to-cell communication capacity of neoplastic cells and induced inhibitory effects on cell viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivone Izabel Mackowiak da Fonseca
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil; (I.I.M.d.F.); (M.K.N.); (A.S.); (C.A.R.-J.)
| | - Marcia Kazumi Nagamine
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil; (I.I.M.d.F.); (M.K.N.); (A.S.); (C.A.R.-J.)
| | - Ayami Sato
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil; (I.I.M.d.F.); (M.K.N.); (A.S.); (C.A.R.-J.)
- Institute of Life Innovation Studies, Toyo University, Tokyo 374-0193, Japan
| | - Carlos Alberto Rossatto-Jr
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil; (I.I.M.d.F.); (M.K.N.); (A.S.); (C.A.R.-J.)
| | - Elizabeth Shinmay Yeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Maria Lucia Zaidan Dagli
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil; (I.I.M.d.F.); (M.K.N.); (A.S.); (C.A.R.-J.)
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2
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Zhang L, Qiu Z, Zheng H, Yang X, Ye J, He J, Li Y, Chen L. Single Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals the Pathogenesis of Aortic Dissection Caused by Hypertension and Marfan Syndrome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:880320. [PMID: 35800890 PMCID: PMC9253298 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.880320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic dissection (AD) is mainly caused by hypertension and Marfan syndrome. However, it is unclear whether the cellular components and functions are different between the two causes. A total of 11 aortic samples were collected for single-cell RNA analysis and 20 clusters were disclosed, including VSMCs, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, T cells, B cells, monocytes, macrophages, mast cells, and neutrophils components. There were differences in cell subclusters and function between hypertension and Marfan patients. The cells also had different differentiations. Cellchat identified cell ligand–receptor interactions that were associated with hypertension and Marfan-induced AD involving SMC, fibroblast, mo-macrophages, and T-cell subsets. This study revealed the heterogeneity of cellular components and gene changes in hypertension and Marfan-induced AD. Through functional analysis and the changes in intercellular communication, the possible mechanisms of different causes of AD were explained from a new perspective, so we can better understand the occurrence and development of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- The Key Laboratory of Fujian Province Universities on Ion Channel and Signal Transduction in Cardiovascular Diseases, The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhihuang Qiu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianqiang Ye
- Fujian Center for Safety Evaluation of New Drug, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yumei Li
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Fujian Center for Safety Evaluation of New Drug, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yumei Li, ; Liangwan Chen,
| | - Liangwan Chen
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yumei Li, ; Liangwan Chen,
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3
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Yang BA, Westerhof TM, Sabin K, Merajver SD, Aguilar CA. Engineered Tools to Study Intercellular Communication. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2002825. [PMID: 33552865 PMCID: PMC7856891 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202002825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
All multicellular organisms rely on intercellular communication networks to coordinate physiological functions. As members of a dynamic social network, each cell receives, processes, and redistributes biological information to define and maintain tissue homeostasis. Uncovering the molecular programs underlying these processes is critical for prevention of disease and aging and development of therapeutics. The study of intercellular communication requires techniques that reduce the scale and complexity of in vivo biological networks while resolving the molecular heterogeneity in "omic" layers that contribute to cell state and function. Recent advances in microengineering and high-throughput genomics offer unprecedented spatiotemporal control over cellular interactions and the ability to study intercellular communication in a high-throughput and mechanistic manner. Herein, this review discusses how salient engineered approaches and sequencing techniques can be applied to understand collective cell behavior and tissue functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Trisha M. Westerhof
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Kaitlyn Sabin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Sofia D. Merajver
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Carlos A. Aguilar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
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4
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Skalska J, Oliveira FD, Figueira TN, Mello ÉO, Gomes VM, McNaughton-Smith G, Castanho MARB, Gaspar D. Plant defensin PvD 1 modulates the membrane composition of breast tumour-derived exosomes. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:23366-23381. [PMID: 31793603 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr07843f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
One of the most important causes of failure in tumour treatment is the development of resistance to therapy. Cancer cells can develop the ability to lose sensitivity to anti-neoplastic drugs during reciprocal crosstalk between cells and their interaction with the tumour microenvironment (TME). Cell-to-cell communication regulates a cascade of interdependent events essential for disease development and progression and can be mediated by several signalling pathways. Exosome-mediated communication is one of the pathways regulating these events. Tumour-derived exosomes (TDE) are believed to have the ability to modulate TMEs and participate in multidrug resistance mechanisms. In this work, we studied the effect of the natural defensin from common bean, PvD1, on the formation of exosomes by breast cancer MCF-7 cells, mainly the modulatory effect it has on the level of CD63 and CD9 tetraspanins. Moreover, we followed the interaction of PvD1 with biological and model membranes of selected composition, by biophysical and imaging techniques. Overall, the results show that PvD1 induces a dual effect on MCF-7 derived exosomes: the peptide attenuates the recruitment of CD63 and CD9 to exosomes intracellularly and binds to the mature exosomes in the extracellular environment. This work uncovers the exosome-mediated anticancer action of PvD1, a potential nutraceutical agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Skalska
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Filipa D Oliveira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Tiago N Figueira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Érica O Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos do Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valdirene M Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos do Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Grant McNaughton-Smith
- CEAMED - Centro Atlántico del Medicamento, S.A., San Cristobal de La Laguna, S/C Tenerife, Spain
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Jalaleddine N, El-Hajjar L, Dakik H, Shaito A, Saliba J, Safi R, Zibara K, El-Sabban M. Pannexin1 Is Associated with Enhanced Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Patient Breast Cancer Tissues and in Breast Cancer Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11121967. [PMID: 31817827 PMCID: PMC6966616 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11121967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of connexin-mediated cell-cell communication is a hallmark of breast cancer progression. Pannexin1 (PANX1), a glycoprotein that shares structural and functional features with connexins and engages in cell communication with its environment, is highly expressed in breast cancer metastatic foci; however, PANX1 contribution to metastatic progression is still obscure. Here we report elevated expression of PANX1 in different breast cancer (BRCA) subtypes using RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The elevated PANX1 expression correlated with poorer outcomes in TCGA BRCA patients. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway genes correlated positively with PANX1 expression. Pharmacological inhibition of PANX1, in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, or genetic ablation of PANX1, in MDA-MB-231 cells, reverted the EMT phenotype, as evidenced by decreased expression of EMT markers. In addition, PANX1 inhibition or genetic ablation decreased the invasiveness of MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results suggest PANX1 overexpression in breast cancer is associated with a shift towards an EMT phenotype, in silico and in vitro, attributing to it a tumor-promoting effect, with poorer clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients. This association offers a novel target for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1107-2809, Lebanon;
| | - Layal El-Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hassan Dakik
- University of Tours, EA 7501 GICC, CNRS ERL 7001 LNOx, CEDEX 01, 37032 Tours, France;
| | - Abdullah Shaito
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut 1105, Lebanon;
| | - Jessica Saliba
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut 1003, Lebanon;
| | - Rémi Safi
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
| | - Kazem Zibara
- ER045-Laboratory of Stem Cells, PRASE, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut 1003, Lebanon;
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961-1-350000 (ext. 4765-4766)
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Cx43 Expression Correlates with Breast Cancer Metastasis in MDA-MB-231 Cells In Vitro, In a Mouse Xenograft Model and in Human Breast Cancer Tissues. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040460. [PMID: 30939738 PMCID: PMC6521103 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins regulate multiple cellular functions and are considered tumor suppressors. Connexin43 (Cx43) is frequently down-regulated in breast tumors. However, Cx43 regulation during cancer onset and metastasis is complex and context-dependent. We investigated the effect of Cx43 over-expression or knock-down on the metastatic potential of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and in human breast cancer tissues. MDA-MB-231 cells over-expressing (Cx43D) or down-regulating Cx43 (shCx43) were generated and used in proliferation, migration, and invasion assays. The regulation of genes/proteins implicated in progression, invasion and metastasis was assessed in vitro and in immune-compromized mice injected with MDA-MB-231, Cx43D or shCx43 cells. Primary tumor onset/growth, metastasis and overall survival of these animals was monitored and evaluated. In addition, Cx43 expression in human breast carcinoma samples was assessed by qPCR. Cx43 over-expression increased protein levels of epithelial markers E-cadherin and zonula occludens 1 expression and resulted in the sequestration of β-catenin at the cell membrane, while Cx43 knock-down induced protein expression of the mesenchymal marker N-cadherin and an increased invasive potential of shCx43 cells. In vivo, in mice xenografted with breast cancer cells, Cx43 over-expression decreased tumor volume, attenuated cell metastasis to lungs and liver and increased overall mice survival. Importantly, the expression of Cx43 in triple negative human breast cancer tissues is also down-regulated. Collectively, Cx43 over-expression induced an epithelial-like phenotype in MDA-MB-231 cells and suppressed tumor growth and metastasis to secondary organs in vivo. In contrast, Cx43 knock-down in MDA-MB-231 cells induced a mesenchymal phenotype with increased cell invasion leading to an enhanced metastatic phenotype. These data provide evidence for a pivotal role of Cx43 in breast cancer metastasis and support the potential targeting of connexins in breast cancer therapy.
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7
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Connexin 43 Loss Triggers Cell Cycle Entry and Invasion in Non-Neoplastic Breast Epithelium: A Role for Noncanonical Wnt Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030339. [PMID: 30857262 PMCID: PMC6468895 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) is disrupted in breast cancer, and re-expression of this protein in human breast cancer cell lines leads to decreased proliferation and invasiveness, suggesting a tumor suppressive role. This study aims to investigate the role of Cx43 in proliferation and invasion starting from non-neoplastic breast epithelium. (2) Methods: Nontumorigenic human mammary epithelial HMT-3522 S1 cells and Cx43 shRNA-transfected counterparts were cultured under 2-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D conditions. (3) Results: Silencing Cx43 induced mislocalization of β-catenin and Scrib from apicolateral membrane domains in glandular structures or acini formed in 3-D culture, suggesting the loss of apical polarity. Cell cycle entry and proliferation were enhanced, concomitantly with c-Myc and cyclin D1 upregulation, while no detectable activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling was observed. Motility and invasion were also triggered and were associated with altered acinar morphology and activation of ERK1/2 and Rho GTPase signaling, which acts downstream of the noncanonical Wnt pathway. The invasion of Cx43-shRNA S1 cells was observed only under permissive stiffness of the extracellular matrix (ECM). (4) Conclusion: Our results suggest that Cx43 controls proliferation and invasion in the normal mammary epithelium in part by regulating noncanonical Wnt signaling.
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Ferrati S, Gadok AK, Brunaugh AD, Zhao C, Heersema LA, Smyth HDC, Stachowiak JC. Connexin membrane materials as potent inhibitors of breast cancer cell migration. J R Soc Interface 2018; 14:rsif.2017.0313. [PMID: 28768882 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2017.0313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junction (GJ) channels facilitate cell-cell communication through the exchange of chemical and mechanical signals, ensuring proper tissue development and homeostasis. The complex, disease stage-dependent role of connexins in breast cancer progression has been extensively studied over the past two decades. In the early stages of breast cancer, substantial evidence supports the role of GJ channels, formed by connexins at the interfaces between neighbouring cells, as suppressors of cell migration and proliferation. These findings suggest that materials that reintroduce connexins into the tumour cell environment have the potential to inhibit cell migration. Here, we report that exposure of highly metastatic MDA-MB-231 breast tumour cells to connexin-rich biovesicle materials potently suppresses cell migration. Specifically, these biovesicles, which can form GJ interfaces with cells, were extracted from the plasma membrane of donor cells engineered to express a high concentration of functional connexin 43 channels. These connexin-rich membrane materials dramatically reduced cell migration in both a transwell migration assay and a scratch closure assay. Collectively, these results suggest that using membrane materials to reintroduce connexins into the tumour cell environment provides a novel approach for combating cell migration and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Ferrati
- Division of Pharmaceutics, The University of Texas at Austin, 2409 University Ave, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Avinash K Gadok
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Ashlee D Brunaugh
- Division of Pharmaceutics, The University of Texas at Austin, 2409 University Ave, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Chi Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Lara A Heersema
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Hugh D C Smyth
- Division of Pharmaceutics, The University of Texas at Austin, 2409 University Ave, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Jeanne C Stachowiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Jiang Y, Chen L, Taylor RN, Li C, Zhou X. Physiological and pathological implications of retinoid action in the endometrium. J Endocrinol 2018; 236:R169-R188. [PMID: 29298821 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Retinol (vitamin A) and its derivatives, collectively known as retinoids, are required for maintaining vision, immunity, barrier function, reproduction, embryogenesis and cell proliferation and differentiation. Despite the fact that most events in the endometrium are predominantly regulated by steroid hormones (estrogens and progesterone), accumulating evidence shows that retinoid signaling is also involved in the development and maintenance of the endometrium, stromal decidualization and blastocyst implantation. Moreover, aberrant retinoid metabolism seems to be a critical factor in the development of endometriosis, a common gynecological disease, which affects up to 10% of reproductive age women and is characterized by the ectopic localization of endometrial-like tissue in the pelvic cavity. This review summarizes recent advances in research on the mechanisms and molecular actions of retinoids in normal endometrial development and physiological function. The potential roles of abnormal retinoid signaling in endometriosis are also discussed. The objectives are to identify limitations in current knowledge regarding the molecular actions of retinoids in endometrial biology and to stimulate new investigations toward the development potential therapeutics to ameliorate or prevent endometriosis symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwen Jiang
- College of Animal SciencesJilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Animal SciencesJilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Molecular Medicine and Translational SciencesWake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chunjin Li
- College of Animal SciencesJilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- College of Animal SciencesJilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Yeh ES, Williams CJ, Williams CB, Bonilla IV, Klauber-DeMore N, Phillips SL. Dysregulated connexin 43 in HER2-positive drug resistant breast cancer cells enhances proliferation and migration. Oncotarget 2017; 8:109358-109369. [PMID: 29312613 PMCID: PMC5752526 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a gap junction protein whose function in the development of breast cancer and in breast cancer progression remains unclear. Evidence suggests that Cx43 (GJA1) mRNA and protein expression is altered in breast tumors. However, reports indicate both increased and decreased Cx43 levels in human breast cancer samples. Studies also suggest that loss of Cx43 regulated gap junction intercellular communication is a common feature of breast malignancies that potentially correlates with histological stage. Further evidence suggests that Cx43 (GJA1) mRNA expression is negatively correlated with HER2 positivity but a relationship between Cx43 and HER2 in breast cancer is not well defined. Therefore, in this study, we sought to evaluate the relationship between Cx43 activity, HER2, and drug resistance. Using HER2+ breast cancer cell lines that are sensitive or resistant to HER2 inhibitor, we evaluated Cx43 gap junction function. We found that Cx43 gap junction activity is completely lost in drug resistant HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer cells, whereas Cx43 gap junction activity can be restored by Cx43 overexpression in drug sensitive HER2+ cells. Moreover, the dysregulation of Cx43 resulted in increased tumorigenic and migratory capacity of the HER2+ drug resistant breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Yeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Christina J Williams
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Carly Bess Williams
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ingrid V Bonilla
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Nancy Klauber-DeMore
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Stephanie L Phillips
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Phillips SL, Williams CB, Zambrano JN, Williams CJ, Yeh ES. Connexin 43 in the development and progression of breast cancer: What's the connection? (Review). Int J Oncol 2017; 51:1005-1013. [PMID: 28902343 PMCID: PMC5592860 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 is a prominent gap junction protein within normal human breast tissue. Thus far, there have been a number of research studies performed to determine the function of connexin 43 in breast tumor formation and progression. Within primary tumors, research suggests that the level of connexin 43 expression in breast tumors is altered when compared to normal human breast tissue. While some reports indicate that connexin 43 levels decrease, other evidence suggests that connexin 43 levels are increased and protein localization shifts from the plasma membrane to the cytoplasm. In either case, the prevailing theory is that breast tumor cells have reduced gap junction intercellular communication within primary tumors. The current consensus appears to be that the loss of connexin 43 gap junction intercellular communication is an early event in malignancy, with the possibility of gap junction restoration in the event of metastasis. However, additional evidence is needed to support the latter claim. The purpose of this report is to review the connexin 43 literature that describes studies using human tissue samples, in order to evaluate the function of connexin 43 protein in normal human breast tissue as well as the role of connexin 43 in human breast tumor formation and metastatic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Phillips
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Carly Bess Williams
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Joelle N Zambrano
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Christina J Williams
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Yeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Toro L, Bohovic R, Matuskova M, Smolkova B, Kucerova L. Metastatic Ovarian Cancer Can Be Efficiently Treated by Genetically Modified Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:1640-1651. [PMID: 27539058 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2016.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to late diagnosis, often recurrence, formation of metastases and resistance to commonly used chemotherapeutics human ovarian carcinoma represents a serious disease with high mortality. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AT-MSC) can serve as vehicles for therapeutic genes and we engineered AT-MSC to express either Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSVtk-MSC), which phosphorylates ganciclovir (GCV) to its toxic metabolites or yeast fused cytosine deaminase::uracil phosphoribosyltransferase (CD::UPRT-MSC), which converts 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) to highly toxic 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Here, we reported different responses of cytotoxicity mediated by CD::UPRT-MSC/5-FC treatment on human ovarian carcinoma cell lines-SKOV-3 and A2780 used in adherent or three-dimensional (3D) cell culture and we proved high potential of 3D model to predict results in our in vivo experiments. Both tumor cell lines showed similarly high chemosensitivity to the used treatment in adherent culture, but 3D model revealed severe discrepancy-only 36% of SKOV-3 cells but even 90% of A2780 cells were eliminated. This result served as a prognostic marker-we were able to achieve significantly decreased tumor volumes of subcutaneous xenografts of A2780 cells in nude mice and we prolonged tumor-free survival in 33% of animals bearing highly metastatic ovarian carcinoma after CD::UPRT-MSC/5-FC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Toro
- 1 Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute , Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Roman Bohovic
- 1 Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute , Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Miroslava Matuskova
- 1 Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute , Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Bozena Smolkova
- 2 Department of Genetics, Cancer Research Institute , Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lucia Kucerova
- 1 Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Research Institute , Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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13
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Connexin 43, breast cancer tumor suppressor: Missed connections? Cancer Lett 2016; 374:117-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Farhanji B, Latifpour M, Alizadeh AM, Khodayari H, Khodayari S, Khaniki M, Ghasempour S. Tumor suppression effects of myoepithelial cells on mice breast cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 765:171-8. [PMID: 26297304 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have assumed that myoepithelial cells (MECs) loss may contribute to epithelial tumor induction and/or progression. We adopted an in vitro assay and a syngeneic mice breast cancer model with histological and molecular characteristics resembling human lesions to evaluate tumor suppression effects of MECs. Flow cytometric, cell viability, blood chemistry, transmission electron microscope, immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR assays were performed at the end of the study. We demonstrated that MECs could significantly suppress the viability of cancer cells at different time points (P<0.05). At the end of the fourth and fifth weeks, treated mice had smaller tumor volume compared with control animals. Average tumor volume was significantly less in treated groups than control group at days 21 (0.38±0.19 vs. 1.99±0.13 cm3), 28 (0.57±0.3 vs. 2.5±0.37 cm3) and 35 (0.7±0.35 vs. 2.65±0.4 cm3) after tumor cell injection (P<0.05). No hematological, hepatocellular, and renal toxicities were seen in MECs treated groups. Ultrastructural features revealed severe relationship between adjacent tumoral cells and loose interconnections of neoplastic cells in treated group. Immunohistochemical examinations of breast tumors showed high p63 and low alpha-smooth muscle actin protein expression in treated mice compared to control (P<0.05). MRNA expressions of TNF-α, smooth muscle-myosin heavy chain, connexin 43, and maspin were significantly up-regulated in breast tumor tissues in treated group compared to control (P<0.05). VEGF and alpha-smooth muscle actin mRNA expression were reduced in treated animals (P<0.05). The present study highlighted the potential tumor suppression effects of MECs on breast cancer in a typical animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baharak Farhanji
- Iranian Tissue Bank & Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Latifpour
- Cancer Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1419733141 Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Alizadeh
- Cancer Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1419733141 Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamid Khodayari
- Cancer Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1419733141 Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Khodayari
- Cancer Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1419733141 Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mahmood Khaniki
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sarieh Ghasempour
- Cancer Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 1419733141 Tehran, Iran
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15
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Restucci B, Martano M, Maiolino P. Expression of endothelin-1 and endothelin-1 receptor A in canine mammary tumours. Res Vet Sci 2015; 100:182-8. [PMID: 25816929 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Endothelins and their receptors have been implicated in numerous diseases and have recently emerged as relevant players in a variety of malignancies. Tumours overexpress the Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and the Endothelin-A receptors (ETAR) and their interaction enhances tumour growth and metastasis by promoting tumour cell survival, proliferation and angiogenesis. In this study we have evaluated the expression of ET-1 and ETAR in 50 canine mammary tumours, compared to normal controls. Results demonstrated a progressive increase in ET-1 and ETAR expression from benign tumour to grade 1 and to grade 2 malignant mammary tumours with a decrease of expression in grade 3 carcinomas. Co-localization of ET-1 and ETAR was observed in benign mammary tumours and in G1 and G2 carcinomas, while absent in G3 carcinomas. Concluding, ET-1/ETAR can be considered reliable markers for evaluating malignancy of canine mammary tumours and could have importance for the development of specific anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Restucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Naples University "Federico II", Via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy.
| | - M Martano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Naples University "Federico II", Via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - P Maiolino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Naples University "Federico II", Via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
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16
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Matuskova M, Baranovicova L, Kozovska Z, Durinikova E, Pastorakova A, Hunakova L, Waczulikova I, Nencka R, Kucerova L. Intrinsic properties of tumour cells have a key impact on the bystander effect mediated by genetically engineered mesenchymal stromal cells. J Gene Med 2012; 14:776-87. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2012] [Revised: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 11/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Miroslava Matuskova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Lenka Baranovicova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Kozovska
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Erika Durinikova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Andrea Pastorakova
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine; Comenius University; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Lubica Hunakova
- Laboratory of Tumour Immunology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Iveta Waczulikova
- Department of Nuclear Physics and Biophysics, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics; Comenius University; Bratislava; Slovakia
| | - Radim Nencka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry AS CR vvi; Prague; Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Kucerova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology; Cancer Research Institute of Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava; Slovakia
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17
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Abstract
Because they are generally noncoding and thus considered nonfunctional and unimportant, pseudogenes have long been neglected. Recent advances have established that the DNA of a pseudogene, the RNA transcribed from a pseudogene, or the protein translated from a pseudogene can have multiple, diverse functions and that these functions can affect not only their parental genes but also unrelated genes. Therefore, pseudogenes have emerged as a previously unappreciated class of sophisticated modulators of gene expression, with a multifaceted involvement in the pathogenesis of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Poliseno
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, Istituto Toscano Tumori (CRL-ITT), c/o IFC-CNR Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Miekus K, Czernik M, Sroka J, Czyz J, Madeja Z. Contact stimulation of prostate cancer cell migration: the role of gap junctional coupling and migration stimulated by heterotypic cell-to-cell contacts in determination of the metastatic phenotype of Dunning rat prostate cancer cells. Biol Cell 2012; 97:893-903. [PMID: 15907197 DOI: 10.1042/bc20040129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND INFORMATION Motile activity of tumour cells is regarded as a critical factor determining their metastatic potential. We have shown previously that contrary to the majority of normal cells, homotypic contacts between some tumour cells, among them low metastatic (AT-2) and highly metastatic (MAT-LyLu) rat prostate cancer cells, increase the speed of their movements. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of heterotypic cell-to-cell contacts on the migration of rat prostate cancer cells differing in metastatic potential, and to correlate it with the intensity of homo- and heterologous gap junctional coupling. RESULTS MAT-LyLu and AT-2 cells moving on the surface of fibroblasts displayed significantly greater cell displacement than those moving on plastic substrata. This effect correlated with the polarization (contact guidance) and increased speed of cell movements. However, in contrast with the migration on plastic substrata, where MAT-LyLu cells displayed considerably higher motility than AT-2 cells, no differences between both cell lines were observed on the surface of fibroblasts. On the other hand, in contrast with AT-2, Mat-LyLu cells displayed extensive homologous coupling mediated by connexin43 and were able to couple with normal fibroblasts. CONCLUSION Heterotypic contacts between migrating prostatic cancer cells and normal fibroblasts can strongly stimulate their migration during invasion; however, this effect does not correlate with the gap junctional coupling between cancer cells and normal fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Miekus
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
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Bodenstine TM, Vaidya KS, Ismail A, Beck BH, Diers AR, Edmonds MD, Kirsammer GT, Landar A, Welch DR. Subsets of ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP) inhibitors increase gap junctional intercellular communication in metastatic cancer cell lines independent of SUR expression. FEBS Lett 2011; 586:27-31. [PMID: 22119728 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2011.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2011] [Revised: 11/12/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) regulates cellular homeostasis by propagating signaling molecules, exchanging cellular metabolites, and coupling electrical signals. In cancer, cells exhibit altered rates of GJIC which may play a role in neoplastic progression. K(ATP) channels help maintain membrane polarity and linkages between K(ATP) channel activity and rates of GJIC have been established. The mechanistic relationship has not been fully elucidated. We report the effects of treatment with multiple K(ATP) antagonist compounds on GJIC in metastatic cell lines demonstrating an increase in communication rates following treatment with compounds possessing specificities towards the SUR2 subunit of K(ATP). These effects remained consistent using cell lines with different expression levels of SUR1 and SUR2, suggesting possible off target effects on GJIC by these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Bodenstine
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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20
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Connexin43 Expression Increases in the Epithelium and Stroma along the Colonic Neoplastic Progression Pathway: Implications for Its Oncogenic Role. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2011; 2011:561719. [PMID: 21754925 PMCID: PMC3132986 DOI: 10.1155/2011/561719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 04/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are critical for normal tissue development, differentiation, and cell proliferation. Normal expression and function of Cxs are considered to play a role in tumor
suppression, but abnormal localization and abnormally increased expression of Cxs have been found in a variety of carcinomas. Of the Cx family, Cx43 is a most prevalent member and has been known as a downstream target of β-catenin, a key component of Wnt signaling pathway. We evaluated the expression of Cx43 in the colonic neoplasia progression sequence with additional attention to the stromal component. Resections of 50 colonic adenocarcinomas were stained immunohistochemically for Cx43 on paraffin embedded sections. Cx43 cytoplasmic expression increased progressively in the colonic adenocarcinoma sequence in both the epithelial [normal (4 ± 1), adenomatous (20 ± 2), cancerous (124 ± 10) (P < 0.01)], and stromal [normal (19 ± 1), cancerous (45 ± 4) (P < 0.01)] components. In the epithelial component, Cx43 was expressed lower in stage I adenocarcinomas (69 ± 12) compared to stage III/IV (158 ± 10, P < 0.01). Additionally, Cx43 was relatively increased in the adenocarcinoma at the invasive tumor front in
all stages. Cx43 may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of colon cancer via gap junction or
other gap junction independent mechanisms such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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21
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Bodenstine TM, Vaidya KS, Ismail A, Beck BH, Cook LM, Diers AR, Landar A, Welch DR. Homotypic gap junctional communication associated with metastasis suppression increases with PKA activity and is unaffected by PI3K inhibition. Cancer Res 2010; 70:10002-11. [PMID: 21098703 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-2606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Loss of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between cancer cells is a common characteristic of malignant transformation. This communication is mediated by connexin proteins that make up the functional units of gap junctions. Connexins are highly regulated at the protein level and phosphorylation events play a key role in their trafficking and degradation. The metastasis suppressor breast cancer metastasis suppressor 1 (BRMS1) upregulates GJIC and decreases phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) signaling. On the basis of these observations, we set out to determine whether there was a link between PI3K and GJIC in tumorigenic and metastatic cell lines. Treatment of cells with the well-known PI3K inhibitor LY294002, and its structural analogue LY303511, which does not inhibit PI3K, increased homotypic GJIC; however, we found the effect to be independent of PI3K/AKT inhibition. We show in multiple cancer cell lines of varying metastatic capability that GJIC can be restored without enforced expression of a connexin gene. In addition, while levels of connexin 43 remained unchanged, its relocalization from the cytosol to the plasma membrane was observed. Both LY294002 and LY303511 increased the activity of protein kinase A (PKA). Moreover, PKA blockade by the small molecule inhibitor H89 decreased the LY294002/LY303511-mediated increase in GJIC. Collectively, our findings show a connection between PKA activity and GJIC mediated by PI3K-independent mechanisms of LY294002 and LY303511. Manipulation of these signaling pathways could prove useful for antimetastatic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Bodenstine
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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22
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Liu CL, Huang YS, Hosokawa M, Miyashita K, Hu ML. Inhibition of proliferation of a hepatoma cell line by fucoxanthin in relation to cell cycle arrest and enhanced gap junctional intercellular communication. Chem Biol Interact 2009; 182:165-72. [PMID: 19737546 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2009.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Revised: 08/12/2009] [Accepted: 08/31/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Fucoxanthin is one of the most abundant carotenoids found in Undaria pinnatifida and has been shown to inhibit tumor proliferation in vitro. However, the mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of fucoxanthin are unclear. In this study, we hypothesized that fucoxanthin may cause cell cycle arrest and enhance gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) in SK-Hep-1 human hepatoma cells. Data revealed that fucoxanthin (1-20microM) strongly and concentration-dependently inhibited the proliferation of SK-Hep-1 cells at 24h of incubation, whereas fucoxanthin facilitated the growth of a murine embryonic hepatic (BNL CL.2) cells at 24h of incubation and only slightly slowed the cell proliferation at 48h. In SK-Hep-1 cells, fucoxanthin caused cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and induced cell apoptosis, as evidenced by increased subG1 cells and induction of DNA strand breaks. Using scrape loading-dye-transfer assay, fucoxanthin was found to significantly enhance GJIC of SK-Hep-1 cells without affecting that of BNL CL.2 cells. In addition, fucoxanthin significantly increased protein and mRNA expressions of connexin 43 (Cx43) and connexin 32 (Cx32) in SK-Hep-1 cells. Moreover, fucoxanthin markedly increased the concentration of intracellular calcium levels in SK-Hep-1 cells. Thus, fucoxanthin is specifically antiproliferative against SK-Hep-1 cells, and the effect is associated with upregulation of Cx32 and Cx43, which enhances GJIC of SK-Hep-1 cells. The enhanced GJIC may be responsible for the increase of the intracellular calcium level, which then causes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Ling Liu
- Department of Food Science, National Chung-Hsing University, 250 Kuo-Kuang Road, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
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Bier A, Oviedo-Landaverde I, Zhao J, Mamane Y, Kandouz M, Batist G. Connexin43 pseudogene in breast cancer cells offers a novel therapeutic target. Mol Cancer Ther 2009; 8:786-93. [PMID: 19372551 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-08-0930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) is often deregulated in breast cancer tissue compared with normal adjacent tissue. Stable reexpression of Cx43 in cancer slows growth and renders the cells more sensitive to cytotoxic chemotherapeutics. Pseudogenes are often considered nonfunctional copies of DNA. The Cx43 pseudogene (PsiCx43) possesses all the features of an expressed gene and is exclusively transcribed in breast cancer cell lines and not in normal cells. PsiCx43 can be translated in vivo, and its protein exhibits growth-suppressive behavior similar to Cx43. We showed that PsiCx43 binds to the polyribosomes in breast cancer cells and that exogenous expression of PsiCx43 induces translational inhibition of Cx43. Furthermore, PsiCx43 is translated and binds more efficiently to the translational machinery than does Cx43 in an in vitro system. Following knockdown of PsiCx43 in breast cancer cells, we observed an increase in Cx43 RNA and protein. This results in increased cellular sensitivity to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Our results show that PsiCx43 acts as a posttranscriptional regulator of Cx43 in breast cancer cells, and that this represents an example of the regulation of genes by pseudogenes with potential therapeutic implications in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Bier
- Department of Oncology, Segal Cancer Centre, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital, and Department of Biochemistry and McGill Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3T 1E2
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Dbouk HA, Mroue RM, El-Sabban ME, Talhouk RS. Connexins: a myriad of functions extending beyond assembly of gap junction channels. Cell Commun Signal 2009; 7:4. [PMID: 19284610 PMCID: PMC2660342 DOI: 10.1186/1478-811x-7-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins constitute a large family of trans-membrane proteins that allow intercellular communication and the transfer of ions and small signaling molecules between cells. Recent studies have revealed complex translational and post-translational mechanisms that regulate connexin synthesis, maturation, membrane transport and degradation that in turn modulate gap junction intercellular communication. With the growing myriad of connexin interacting proteins, including cytoskeletal elements, junctional proteins, and enzymes, gap junctions are now perceived, not only as channels between neighboring cells, but as signaling complexes that regulate cell function and transformation. Connexins have also been shown to form functional hemichannels and have roles altogether independent of channel functions, where they exert their effects on proliferation and other aspects of life and death of the cell through mostly-undefined mechanisms. This review provides an updated overview of current knowledge of connexins and their interacting proteins, and it describes connexin modulation in disease and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashem A Dbouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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25
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Gakhar G, Schrempp D, Nguyen TA. Regulation of gap junctional intercellular communication by TCDD in HMEC and MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2008; 235:171-81. [PMID: 19121332 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2008.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2008] [Revised: 11/04/2008] [Accepted: 11/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that many neoplastic tissues exhibit a decrease in gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). Many hydrocarbons and organochlorine compounds are environmental pollutants known to be carcinogenic. The effect of an organochlorine compound, TCDD, on GJIC in human breast cell lines has not been established. In the present study, we showed that TCDD causes an inhibition in the gap junctional activity in MCF-7 (breast cancer cells). In MCF-7 cells, an increase in the phosphorylated form of gap junctional protein, connexin 43 (Cx43), and PKC alpha was seen in the presence of TCDD. Gap junctional plaque formation was significantly decreased in MCF-7 cells in the presence of TCDD. Immunoprecipitation studies of PKC alpha showed that TCDD caused a significant 40% increase in the phosphorylated Cx43 in MCF-7 cells. TCDD also modulated the translocation of PKC alpha from the cytosol to the membrane and caused a 2-fold increase in the PKC alpha activity at 50 nM TCDD in MCF-7 cells. Calphostin C, an inhibitor of PKC alpha, showed a significant inhibition of PKC alpha activity in the presence of TCDD. Furthermore, TCDD also caused a decrease in the gap junctional activity and Cx43 protein in human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC). However, we observed a shift in the Cx43 plaques towards the perinuclear membrane in the presence of TCDD by confocal microscopy and Western blot. Overall, these results conclude that TCDD decreases GJIC by phosphorylating Cx43 via PKC alpha signaling pathway in MCF-7 cells; however, TCDD decreases the GJIC by affecting the localization of Cx43 in HMEC. These new findings elucidate the differential mode of effect of TCDD in the downregulation of GJIC in HMEC and MCF-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Gakhar
- Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, 1800 Denison Avenue, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
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26
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Elzarrad MK, Haroon A, Willecke K, Dobrowolski R, Gillespie MN, Al-Mehdi AB. Connexin-43 upregulation in micrometastases and tumor vasculature and its role in tumor cell attachment to pulmonary endothelium. BMC Med 2008; 6:20. [PMID: 18647409 PMCID: PMC2492868 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-6-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The modulation of gap junctional communication between tumor cells and between tumor and vascular endothelial cells during tumorigenesis and metastasis is complex. The notion of a role for loss of gap junctional intercellular communication in tumorigenesis and metastasis has been controversial. While some of the stages of tumorigenesis and metastasis, such as uncontrolled cell division and cellular detachment, would necessitate the loss of intercellular junctions, other stages, such as intravasation, endothelial attachment, and vascularization, likely require increased cell-cell contact. We hypothesized that, in this multi-stage scheme, connexin-43 is centrally involved as a cell adhesion molecule mediating metastatic tumor attachment to the pulmonary endothelium. METHODS Tumor cell attachment to pulmonary vasculature, tumor growth, and connexin-43 expression was studied in metastatic lung tumor sections obtained after tail-vein injection into nude mice of syngeneic breast cancer cell lines, overexpressing wild type connexin-43 or dominant-negatively mutated connexin-43 proteins. High-resolution immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis was performed using a connexin-43 monoclonal antibody. Calcein Orange Red AM dye transfer by fluorescence imaging was used to evaluate the gap junction function. RESULTS Adhesion of breast cancer cells to the pulmonary endothelium increased with cancer cells overexpressing connexin-43 and markedly decreased with cells expressing dominant-negative connexin-43. Upregulation of connexin-43 was observed in tumor cell-endothelial cell contact areas in vitro and in vivo, and in areas of intratumor blood vessels and in micrometastatic foci. CONCLUSION Connexin-43 facilitates metastatic 'homing' by increasing adhesion of cancer cells to the lung endothelial cells. The marked upregulation of connexin-43 in tumor cell-endothelial cell contact areas, whether in preexisting 'homing' vessels or in newly formed tumor vessels, suggests that connexin-43 can serve as a potential marker of micrometastases and tumor vasculature and that it may play a role in the early incorporation of endothelial cells into small tumors as seeds for vasculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Khair Elzarrad
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, North University Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
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Conklin C, Huntsman D, Yorida E, Makretsov N, Turbin D, Bechberger JF, Sin WC, Naus CC. Tissue microarray analysis of connexin expression and its prognostic significance in human breast cancer. Cancer Lett 2007; 255:284-94. [PMID: 17583422 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2007.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2006] [Revised: 04/30/2007] [Accepted: 05/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer accounts for approximately 15% of all cancer deaths. Currently, axillary nodal status is the most reliable prognostic indicator for breast cancer. Tumor size and histological grade are used to stage breast cancer. Estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR) and HER-2/neu status are useful in predicting patient survival and relapse. Ki67, an indicator of proliferative activity, also correlates well with prognosis. Connexin proteins form gap junction channels, permitting intercellular exchange of ions and small molecules. Reduced connexin protein levels and impaired gap junctional intercellular communication are associated with tumor phenotypes. This study investigated the prognostic value of connexin proteins as breast cancer markers. Tissue microarrays, containing 438 cases of invasive breast carcinoma, were stained with Cx26, Cx32, and Cx43 antibodies. The degree of connexin immunoreactivity was determined and then correlated with patient outcome, tumor grade, tumor size, lymph node status, and immunohistochemical markers, such as p53, ER/PR status, Ki67 and c-erbB-2 expression. Cx26, Cx32, or Cx43 did not correlate well with tumor grade, tumor size, p53 or c-erbB-2 status. There was an inverse correlation between Cx32 and lymph node status (P <0.05) and a positive correlation between Cx43 and PR status (P <0.01). Cx32 and Cx43 correlated positively with ER status (P <0.01). Cx43 correlated negatively with Ki67 expression (P <0.01). Cx26, Cx32, and Cx43 did not correlate with patient outcome. Based on our observations in this study, connexin proteins do not appear to be reliable indicators of breast cancer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Conklin
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, The University of British Columbia, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3
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Nichenametla SN, Taruscio TG, Barney DL, Exon JH. A review of the effects and mechanisms of polyphenolics in cancer. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2006; 46:161-83. [PMID: 16431408 DOI: 10.1080/10408390591000541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This paper is a comprehensive review of the effects of bioactive polyphenolic compounds commonly found in many fruits and vegetables on cancer. These include the pheniolic acids, anthocyanins, catechins, stilbenes and several other flavonoids. We have attempted to compile information from most of the major studies in this area into one source. The review encompasses the occurrence and bioavailability of the polyphenolics, the in vitro and in vivo evidence for their effects on cancer, both positive and negative, and the various mechanisms by which the chemicals may exert their effects. Although most of the work done to date indicates a chemopreventative activity of these compounds, there are some studies that show cancer-inducing or no effects. There are several common mechanisms by which these chemicals exert their effects that could be conducive to additive, synergistic, or antagonistic interactions. These include effects on cellular differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis, effects on proteins and enzymes that are involved in these processes at a molecular level, and other various effects through altered immune function and chemical metabolism.
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Kanczuga-Koda L, Sulkowski S, Lenczewski A, Koda M, Wincewicz A, Baltaziak M, Sulkowska M. Increased expression of connexins 26 and 43 in lymph node metastases of breast cancer. J Clin Pathol 2006; 59:429-33. [PMID: 16567471 PMCID: PMC1860373 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2005.029272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junctions are intercellular channels composed of connexins, which mediate the direct passage of small molecules between neighbouring cells. They are involved in regulation of cell cycle, cell signalling, and differentiation, and probably invasion and metastasis. The role of connexins in the metastatic process is controversial, because some studies indicate that connexin expression is inversely correlated with metastatic capacity. In contrast, others demonstrate that connexins may be involved in metastasis. In addition, connexin status in breast cancer metastasis has not been widely studied. METHODS We evaluated by immunohistochemistry the expression of connexin 26 (Cx26) and connexin 43 (Cx43) in primary breast tumours (PTs) and matched paired metastases to lymph nodes (MLNs). RESULTS In PTs, we observed predominantly cytoplasmic localisation of evaluated connexins, indicating alterations in connexin expression in breast cancer cells. We demonstrated that expression of Cx26 and Cx43 was increased in MLNs compared with PTs (p<0.00001 and p<0.001, for CX26 and Cx43, respectively). In addition, Cx26 and Cx43 negative PTs developed Cx26 and Cx43 positive MLNs. Furthermore, besides increased cytoplasmic staining, enhanced membranous localisation of Cx43, typical of normal cells, was found in MLNs. Additionally, membranous Cx26 expression appeared only in metastatic breast cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that connexins may contribute to the efficient metastasising of breast cancer to the lymph nodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kanczuga-Koda
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
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30
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Zhao Y, Johansson C, Tran T, Bettencourt R, Itahana Y, Desprez PY, Konieczny SF. Identification of a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor expressed in mammary gland alveolar cells and required for maintenance of the differentiated state. Mol Endocrinol 2006; 20:2187-98. [PMID: 16645041 DOI: 10.1210/me.2005-0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of mammary glands relies on complicated signaling pathways that control cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptotic events through transcriptional regulatory circuits. A key family of transcription factors used in mammary gland development is the helix-loop-helix/basic helix-loop-helix (HLH/bHLH) protein family. In this study, we identify Mist1 as a tissue-restricted Class II bHLH transcription factor expressed in lactating mammary glands. Mouse and human mammary glands accumulated Mist1 protein exclusively in secretory alveolar cells, and Mist1 transcripts were differentially expressed in mouse SCp2 cells induced to differentiate by addition of lactogenic hormones. Mist1 null (Mist1(KO)) lactating mammary glands were defective in normal lobuloalveolar organization, exhibiting shedding of cells into the alveolus lumen and premature activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling pathway. These cells also failed to maintain expression of the gap junction proteins connexin26 and connexin32, leading to the loss of gap junctions. Our findings suggest that loss of Mist1 impairs the maintenance of the fully differentiated alveolar state and, for the first time, places Mist1 within the hierarchy of known HLH/bHLH proteins that control mammary epithelial cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Purdue Cancer Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2064, USA
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31
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Nelson CM, Bissell MJ. Of extracellular matrix, scaffolds, and signaling: tissue architecture regulates development, homeostasis, and cancer. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2006; 22:287-309. [PMID: 16824016 PMCID: PMC2933192 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.cellbio.22.010305.104315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 764] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The microenvironment influences gene expression so that the behavior of a cell is largely determined by its interactions with the extracellular matrix, neighboring cells, and soluble local and systemic cues. We describe the essential roles of context and organ structure in directing mammary gland development and differentiated function and in determining the response to oncogenic insults, including mutations. We expand on the concept of "dynamic reciprocity" to present an integrated view of development, cancer, and aging and posit that genes are like the keys on a piano: Although they are essential, it is the context that makes the music.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste M. Nelson
- Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Mina J. Bissell
- Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720
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Mesnil M, Crespin S, Avanzo JL, Zaidan-Dagli ML. Defective gap junctional intercellular communication in the carcinogenic process. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2005; 1719:125-45. [PMID: 16359943 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2005.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2005] [Revised: 11/07/2005] [Accepted: 11/10/2005] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are membrane structures made of intercellular channels which permit the diffusion from cytoplasm to cytoplasm of small hydrophilic molecules. Nearly 40 years ago, the loss of functional gap junctions has been described in cancer cells and led to the hypothesis that such type of intercellular communication is involved in the carcinogenesis process. From this time, a lot of data has been accumulated confirming that gap junctions are frequently decreased or absent in cancer cells whatever their tissue and species origins. Here, we review such data by insisting on the possible links existing between altered gap-junctional intercellular communication capacity (or the altered expression of their constitutive proteins, the connexins) and the stages of cancer progression in various cancer models. Then, we analyse particular aspects of the disturbance of connexin-mediated communication in cancer such as the cytoplasmic localization of connexins, the lack of heterologous communication between cancer cells and normal cells, the role of connexin gene mutations in cancer. In a separate part of the review, we also analyse the disturbance of gap-junctional intercellular communication during the late stages of cancer (invasion and metastasis processes).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Mesnil
- Equipe Interactions et Communications Cellulaires, Institut de Physiologie et Biologie Cellulaires, CNRS-UMR 6187, Université de Poitiers, 40 avenue du Recteur Pineau, 86022 Poitiers cedex, France.
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33
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Tokés AM, Kulka J, Paku S, Máthé M, Páska C, Lódi C, Kiss A, Schaff Z. The expression of five different claudins in invasive breast carcinomas: Comparison of pT1pN1 and pT1pN0 tumors. Pathol Res Pract 2005; 201:537-44. [PMID: 16259105 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2005.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The evaluation of the role of claudins (CLDNs) in breast carcinogenesis has recently begun. We investigated the expression of CLDNs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7 in pT1pN0 and pT1pN1 invasive ductal breast carcinomas. Tissue arrays of 30-30 pT1pN0 and pT1pN1 invasive ductal breast carcinomas of different grades were constructed, and the expression of CLDN 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7 proteins was analyzed using standard and immunofluorescent immunohistochemistry. The results were evaluated by light and confocal microscopy. Regarding CLDN 1, 4, and 7 expressions, differences were noted between normal and tumor cells and also between tumors of different grades, while no remarkable differences were noted between pT1pN0 and pT1pN1 tumors. CLDNs 1 and 7 were found to be downregulated in tumor cells compared to the normal epithelium, while CLDN 4 expression was decreased in grade 1 tumors. CLDN 7 protein was abundant in normal epithelia, and the staining decreased in grade 3 tumors. There were no differences between normal and neoplastic cells regarding CLDN 2 and 3 expressions. As a preliminary result, our observations suggest that the analyzed CLDNs do not promote tumor metastasis. On the basis of our findings, it seems that CLDN 1, CLDN 4, and CLDN 7 may rather have an important role in tumorigenesis or in cell-to-cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Mária Tokés
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Ulloi út, Hungary
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Patrick B, Li J, Jeyabal PVS, Reddy PMRV, Yang Y, Sharma R, Sinha M, Luxon B, Zimniak P, Awasthi S, Awasthi YC. Depletion of 4-hydroxynonenal in hGSTA4-transfected HLE B-3 cells results in profound changes in gene expression. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 334:425-32. [PMID: 16005854 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.06.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2005] [Accepted: 06/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we have shown that overexpression of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE)-detoxifying enzyme glutathione S-transferase A4-4 (hGSTA4-4) in human lens epithelial cells (HLE B-3) leads to pro-carcinogenic phenotypic transformation of these cells [R. Sharma, et al. Eur. J. Biochem. 271 (2004) 1960-1701]. We now demonstrate that hGSTA4-transfection also causes a profound change in the expression of genes involved in cell adhesion, cell cycle control, proliferation, cell growth, and apoptosis, which is consistent with phenotypic changes of the transformed cells. The expression of p53, p21, p16, fibronectin 1, laminin gamma1, connexin 43, Fas, integrin alpha6, TGFalpha, and c-jun was down-regulated, while the expression of protein kinase C beta II (PKCbetaII), c-myc, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and TGFbeta was up-regulated in transfected cells. These results demonstrate that HNE serves as a crucial signaling molecule and, by modulating the expression of genes, can influence cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad Patrick
- Department of Human Biological Chemistry and Genetics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
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35
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Haass NK, Wladykowski E, Kief S, Moll I, Brandner JM. Differential induction of connexins 26 and 30 in skin tumors and their adjacent epidermis. J Histochem Cytochem 2005; 54:171-82. [PMID: 16046668 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.5a6719.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) have been shown to play a role in tumor progression including a variety of keratinocyte-derived and non-keratinocyte-derived skin tumors. Here we show that the synthesis of the GJ proteins connexin 26 and connexin 30 (Cx26 and Cx30) is induced in keratinocyte-derived epithelial skin tumors whereas there is either no change or a downregulation of Cx43. Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43 are absent in non-epithelial skin tumors. Further, Cx26 and Cx30 are induced in the epidermis adjacent to malignant melanoma but absent in the epidermis adjacent to benign non-epithelial skin lesions (melanocytic nevi and angioma). The keratinocyte-derived skin tumors are very heterogeneous regarding the Cx26/Cx30 pattern in the epidermis at the periphery of the tumors. We did not observe any difference in the localization of the very similar proteins Cx26 and Cx30 but a variation in intensity of immunoreactivity. As the staining patterns of Cx26 and Cx30 antibodies are not identical to those of CK6, a marker for hyperproliferation, and CK17, a marker for trauma, we discuss that the induction of these gap junctional proteins exceeds a reflection of reactive hyperproliferative or traumatized epidermis. We further discuss the putative roles of these gap junctional proteins in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolas K Haass
- The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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36
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Pollmann MA, Shao Q, Laird DW, Sandig M. Connexin 43 mediated gap junctional communication enhances breast tumor cell diapedesis in culture. Breast Cancer Res 2005; 7:R522-34. [PMID: 15987459 PMCID: PMC1175070 DOI: 10.1186/bcr1042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 03/31/2005] [Accepted: 04/13/2005] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Metastasis involves the emigration of tumor cells through the vascular endothelium, a process also known as diapedesis. The molecular mechanisms regulating tumor cell diapedesis are poorly understood, but may involve heterocellular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between tumor cells and endothelial cells. Method To test this hypothesis we expressed connexin 43 (Cx43) in GJIC-deficient mammary epithelial tumor cells (HBL100) and examined their ability to form gap junctions, establish heterocellular GJIC and migrate through monolayers of human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC) grown on matrigel-coated coverslips. Results HBL100 cells expressing Cx43 formed functional heterocellular gap junctions with HMVEC monolayers within 30 minutes. In addition, immunocytochemistry revealed Cx43 localized to contact sites between Cx43 expressing tumor cells and endothelial cells. Quantitative analysis of diapedesis revealed a two-fold increase in diapedesis of Cx43 expressing cells compared to empty vector control cells. The expression of a functionally inactive Cx43 chimeric protein in HBL100 cells failed to increase migration efficiency, suggesting that the observed up-regulation of diapedesis in Cx43 expressing cells required heterocellular GJIC. This finding is further supported by the observation that blocking homocellular and heterocellular GJIC with carbenoxolone in co-cultures also reduced diapedesis of Cx43 expressing HBL100 tumor cells. Conclusion Collectively, our results suggest that heterocellular GJIC between breast tumor cells and endothelial cells may be an important regulatory step during metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary-Ann Pollmann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martin Sandig
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Under normal homeostasis, melanocyte growth and behaviour is tightly controlled by the surrounding keratinocytes. Keratinocytes regulate melanocyte behaviour through a complex system of paracrine growth factors and cell-cell adhesion molecules. Pathological changes, leading to development of malignant melanoma, upset this delicate homeostatic balance and can lead to altered expression of cell-cell adhesion and cell-cell communication molecules. In particular, there is a switch from the E-cadherin-mediated keratinocyte-melanocyte partnership to the N-cadherin-mediated melanoma-melanoma and melanoma-fibroblast interaction. Other changes include the alteration in the gap junctions formed between the melanocyte and keratinocyte. Changes in the connexin expression, in particular the loss of connexin 43, may result in a reduction or a loss of gap junctional activity, which is thought to contribute towards tumour progression. In the current review we describe the alterations in cell-cell adhesion and communication associated with melanoma development and progression, and discuss how a greater understanding of these processes may aid the future therapy of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolas K Haass
- The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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38
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Kandouz M, Bier A, Carystinos GD, Alaoui-Jamali MA, Batist G. Connexin43 pseudogene is expressed in tumor cells and inhibits growth. Oncogene 2004; 23:4763-70. [PMID: 15122329 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1207506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Pseudogenes are classically thought of as nonfunctional DNA sequences due to their inability to be translated, or to produce a functional protein. Gap junctions, a multiprotein complex made of proteins called connexins, are involved in intercellular communication and are deregulated in many cancers. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the only connexin for which a pseudogene has been reported so far. The Cx43 pseudogene (PsiCx43) has all of the features of an expressed gene. We identified the presence of a PsiCx43 mRNA transcript in several cancer cell lines and in none of the normal mammary epithelial cells studied. Using an in vitro translation assay, we found that the PsiCx43 coding plasmid could be translated into a 43 kDa protein. This was further confirmed by expressing a PsiCx43-green fluorescence protein fusion protein in breast cancer MCF-7 cells. We then examined the functional significance of the PsiCx43. In both MTT growth and colony formation assays, significant growth inhibition was observed, a feature common to cells overexpressing the Cx43 gene. However, using a scrape-loading assay, we could not detect any effect on gap junctional intercellular communication. Based on our findings, PsiCx43 joins and enlarges the thus far restricted group of functionally transcribed and translated pseudogenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Oncology, Montréal Centre for Experimental Therapeutics in Cancer, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3T 1E2
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Bry C, Maass K, Miyoshi K, Willecke K, Ott T, Robinson GW, Hennighausen L. Loss of connexin 26 in mammary epithelium during early but not during late pregnancy results in unscheduled apoptosis and impaired development. Dev Biol 2004; 267:418-29. [PMID: 15013803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2003.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2003] [Revised: 11/07/2003] [Accepted: 11/24/2003] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular channels that are formed by the protein family of connexins (Cxs). In mammary tissue, Cx26 and Cx32 are present in the secretory epithelium and Cx43 is localized in the myoepithelium. The expression of Cx26 and Cx32 is induced during pregnancy and lactation, respectively, thus suggesting unique roles for them in the functional development of the gland. The requirement for these connexins was explored using several strains of genetically altered mice: mice with an inactivated Cx32 gene, mice in which the Cx43 gene had been replaced with the Cx32 gene (Cx43KI32 mice) and mice in which the Cx26 gene was specifically ablated in mammary epithelium at different stages of development using Cre-loxP-based recombination. Normal mammary development was obtained in Cx32-null mice and in Cx43KI32 mammary tissue. In contrast, loss of Cx26 in mammary epithelium before puberty resulted in abrogated lobulo-alveolar development and increased cell death during pregnancy, which was accompanied by impaired lactation. Loss of Cx26 in mammary epithelium during the later part of pregnancy did not adversely interfere with functional mammary development. These results demonstrate that the presence of Cx26 is critical during early stages but not during the end of pregnancy when the tissue has completed functional differentiation. Cx26 is considered a tumor suppressor gene and Cx26-null mammary tissue was evaluated after five pregnancies. No hyperproliferation or hyperplasia was observed, suggesting that Cx26 does not function as a tumor suppressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Bry
- Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Edlund M, Sung SY, Chung LWK. Modulation of prostate cancer growth in bone microenvironments. J Cell Biochem 2004; 91:686-705. [PMID: 14991761 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.10702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Bone remains one of the major sites, and most lethal host organs, for prostate cancer metastasis. Prostate cell spread and establishment in bone depends on multiple reciprocal modifications of bone stromal and epithelial cancer cell behaviors. This review focuses on recent advances in the characterization of cell-cell and cell-matrix interplay, effects on cell growth, adhesion and invasion, and several therapeutic possibilities for co-targeting prostate cancer cells and bone stroma. We address the topic from three main perspectives: (1) the normal and aging bone stromal environment, (2) the "reactive" bone stromal environment, and (3) the cancerous prostate epithelial cells themselves. First, normal, and especially aging, bones provide uniquely rich and "fertile soil" for roaming cancer cells. The interactions between prostate cancer cells and insoluble extracellular matrices, soluble growth factors, and/or sex steroid hormones trigger bone remodeling, through increased osteoclastogenesis and furthur matrix metalloproteinase activity. Second, after cancer cell arrival and establishment in the bone, host stromal cells respond, becoming "reactive" in a process again involving extracellular matrix remodeling, together with growth factor and steroid receptor signaling this process ultimately enhances cancer cell migration, stromal transdifferentiation, and invasion of the cancer tissues by stromal, inflammatory, and immune-responsive cells. Third, prostate cancer cells also respond to supportive bone microenvironments, where soluble and matrix-associated molecules affect cancer cell growth and gene expression, especially altering cancer cell surface receptor and integrin-mediated cell signaling. We discuss both integrin cell-matrix and gap junctional cell-cell communication between cancer cells and their microenvironments during prostate cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Edlund
- Department of Urology, Molecular Urology and Therapeutics Program, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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Niranjan A, Wolfe D, Tamura M, Soares MK, Krisky DM, Lunsford LD, Li S, Fellows-Mayle W, DeLuca NA, Cohen JB, Glorioso JC. Treatment of rat gliosarcoma brain tumors by HSV-based multigene therapy combined with radiosurgery. Mol Ther 2003; 8:530-42. [PMID: 14529825 DOI: 10.1016/s1525-0016(03)00232-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Our laboratory has employed replication-defective herpes simplex virus type 1 gene transfer vectors for treatment of animal models of human malignant glioblastoma. The base vectors were defective for the immediate early (IE) genes ICP4, ICP27, and ICP22 but expressed the IE gene ICP0, which can arrest tumor cell division, and an IE thymidine kinase (alpha-tk) gene construct that mediates suicide gene therapy (SGT) in the presence of ganciclovir (GCV). Previously, we reported that SGT using ICP0/alpha-tk vectors in nude mouse models of glioblastoma was improved by coexpression of the gap-junction-forming protein connexin43 (Cx43) or human tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha). We also showed that further gains in therapeutic outcome could be achieved by combining TNF alpha-enhanced SGT with gamma-knife radiosurgery (GKR). To expand these observations, we have first repeated these studies in immunocompetent rats with brain tumors derived from implanted 9L gliosarcoma cells and second compared the most efficient vector from this study with a new recombinant vector, NUREL-C2, which expressed both TNF alpha and Cx43 along with ICP0 and alpha-tk. Results from the first part indicated that our ICP0/alpha-tk/TNF alpha vector in combination with GKR provides an effective therapy although this treatment was not statistically better than GKR combined with the ICP0/alpha-tk/Cx43 vector. Our observations in the second part suggested that NUREL-C2 may be more effective than the ICP0/alpha-tk/TNF alpha vector in combination treatments with GCV (P = 0.08) or GCV plus GKR (P = 0.10). GKR significantly enhanced the efficacy of NUREL-C2/GCV treatment (P = 0.02) as well as other virus/GCV treatments (P < or = 0.05). Conversely, the efficacy of GKR was significantly improved by both the ICP0/alpha-tk/TNF alpha vector and NUREL-C2 in combination with GCV (P = 0.02 and P < 0.01, respectively). Together these results indicate that NUREL-C2 may be an attractive candidate for Phase I gene-therapy safety studies in patients with recurrent malignant glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Niranjan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
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