1
|
Fuloria S, Yadav G, Menon SV, Ali H, Pant K, Kaur M, Deorari M, Sekar M, Narain K, Kumar S, Fuloria NK. Targeting the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in osteosarcoma: The potential of ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutics. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 259:155346. [PMID: 38781762 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a bone cancer which stems from several sources and presents with diverse clinical features, making evaluation and treatment difficult. Chemotherapy tolerance and restricted treatment regimens hinder progress in survival rates, requiring new and creative therapeutic strategies. The Wnt/β-catenin system has been recognised as an essential driver of OS development, providing potential avenues for therapy. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as circular RNAs (circRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), are essential in modulating the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in OS. MiRNAs control the system by targeting vital elements, while lncRNAs and circRNAs interact with system genes, impacting OS growth and advancement. This paper thoroughly analyses the intricate interplay between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin cascade in OS. We examine how uncontrolled levels of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs lead to an abnormal Wnt/β-catenin network, which elevates the development, spread, and susceptibility to the treatment of OS. We emphasise the potential of ncRNAs as diagnostic indicators and avenues for treatment in OS care. The review offers valuable insights for academics and clinicians studying OS aetiology and creating new treatment techniques for the ncRNA-Wnt/β-catenin cascade. Utilising the oversight roles of ncRNAs in the Wnt/β-catenin system shows potential for enhancing the outcomes of patients and progressing precision medicine in OS therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Geeta Yadav
- Chandigarh Pharmacy College, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Jhanjheri, Mohali, Punjab 140307, India
| | - Soumya V Menon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Haider Ali
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India; Department of Pharmacology, Kyrgyz State Medical College, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Kumud Pant
- Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Clement Town, Dehradun 248002, India; Graphic Era Hill University, Clement Town, Dehradun 248002, India
| | - Mandeep Kaur
- Department of Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Mahamedha Deorari
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kamal Narain
- Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Kedah 08100, Malaysia
| | - Sokindra Kumar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Subhartipuram, Meerut-25005, U.P. India
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sergio I, Varricchio C, Patel SK, Del Gaizo M, Russo E, Orlando A, Peruzzi G, Ferrandino F, Tsaouli G, Coni S, Peluso D, Besharat ZM, Campolo F, Venneri MA, Del Bufalo D, Lai S, Indraccolo S, Minuzzo S, La Starza R, Bernardini G, Screpanti I, Campese AF, Felli MP. Notch3-regulated microRNAs impair CXCR4-dependent maturation of thymocytes allowing maintenance and progression of T-ALL. Oncogene 2024:10.1038/s41388-024-03079-0. [PMID: 38907003 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03079-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Malignant transformation of T-cell progenitors causes T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), an aggressive childhood lymphoproliferative disorder. Activating mutations of Notch, Notch1 and Notch3, have been detected in T-ALL patients. In this study, we aimed to deeply characterize hyperactive Notch3-related pathways involved in T-cell dynamics within the thymus and bone marrow to propose these processes as an important step in facilitating the progression of T-ALL. We previously generated a transgenic T-ALL mouse model (N3-ICtg) demonstrating that aberrant Notch3 signaling affects early thymocyte maturation programs and leads to bone marrow infiltration by CD4+CD8+ (DP) T cells that are notably, Notch3highCXCR4high. Newly, our in vivo results suggest that an anomalous immature thymocyte subpopulation, such as CD4-CD8- (DN) over-expressing CD3ɛ, but with low CXCR4 expression, dominates N3-ICtg thymus-resident DN subset in T-ALL progression. MicroRNAs might be of significance in T-ALL pathobiology, however, whether required for leukemia maintenance is not fully understood. The selection of specific DN subsets demonstrates the inverse correlation between CXCR4 expression and a panel of Notch3-deregulated miRNAs. Interestingly, we found that within DN thymocyte subset hyperactive Notch3 inhibits CXCR4 expression through the cooperative effects of miR-139-5p and miR-150-5p, thus impinging on thymocyte differentiation with accumulation of DNCD3ɛ+CXCR4- cells. These data point out that deregulation of Notch3 in T-ALL, besides its role in sustaining dissemination of abnormal DP T cells, as we previously demonstrated, could play a role in selecting specific DN immature T cells within the thymus, thus impeding T cell development, to facilitate T-ALL progression inside the bone marrow.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Sergio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Varricchio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Martina Del Gaizo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Orlando
- Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York NY, USA
| | | | | | - Georgia Tsaouli
- Department of Medical-Surgical Science and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Coni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Peluso
- Ph.D School of Applied Medical-Surgical Sciences, Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | | | - Federica Campolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Lai
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Indraccolo
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Basic and Translational Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Sonia Minuzzo
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberta La Starza
- Hematology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, and S. Maria Della Misericordia Hospital Perugia, CREO, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhu Z, Ding D, Hu H, He T. Pen2/ErbB4 signaling regulates stemness of pancreatic ductal carcinoma. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167316. [PMID: 38901650 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are critical for progression, invasion, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Presenilin enhancer 2 (Pen2), a vital component of the gamma-secretase complex, is overexpressed in various cancers and plays a significant role in carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated the association between Pen2 expression and the stem-like properties of PDAC cells. We analyzed Pen2 and its downstream target, Erb-B2 Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 4 (ErbB4), using public databases. The expression of Pen2 in CSC populations, marked by CD133+, CD44+, or epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)+, was evaluated. Pen2-positive cells were sorted from Pen2-negative ones in PDAC cells transduced with a vector designed to express green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the Pen2 promoter. Stemness was examined in vitro and in vivo in Pen2-positive versus Pen2-negative cells. Our results showed that Pen2 was significantly upregulated, while ErbB4 was significantly downregulated in PDAC tissues compared to adjacent non-tumorous tissues, with an inverse relationship between Pen2 and Erbb4 levels. PDACs with high Pen2 expression are associated with considerably poorer patient survival. The CSC populations identified by CD133+, CD44+, and EpCAM+ markers displayed significantly higher Pen2 and lower EpCAM levels. Compared to Pen2-negative PDAC cells, Pen2-positive cells formed more tumor spheres, were more invasive and migratory, and showed significantly increased resistance to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. Altering Pen2 levels reversed these oncogenic effects. In vivo, Pen2-positive cells formed larger tumors in immunodeficient mice. Overall, our findings suggest that Pen2 is highly expressed in CSCs within PDAC cells, being a novel therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongfei Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Dan Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Tianlin He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Larue AEM, Atlasi Y. The epigenetic landscape in intestinal stem cells and its deregulation in colorectal cancer. Stem Cells 2024; 42:509-525. [PMID: 38597726 PMCID: PMC11177158 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxae027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play a pivotal role in controlling gene expression and cellular plasticity in both normal physiology and pathophysiological conditions. These mechanisms are particularly important in the regulation of stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, both in embryonic development and within adult tissues. A prime example of this finely tuned epigenetic control is observed in the gastrointestinal lining, where the small intestine undergoes renewal approximately every 3-5 days. How various epigenetic mechanisms modulate chromatin functions in intestinal stem cells (ISCs) is currently an active area of research. In this review, we discuss the main epigenetic mechanisms that control ISC differentiation under normal homeostasis. Furthermore, we explore the dysregulation of these mechanisms in the context of colorectal cancer (CRC) development. By outlining the main epigenetic mechanisms contributing to CRC, we highlight the recent therapeutics development and future directions for colorectal cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Axelle E M Larue
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, United Kingdom
| | - Yaser Atlasi
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7AE, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li H, Liu J, Lai J, Su X, Wang X, Cao J, Mao S, Zhang T, Gu Q. The HHEX-ABI2/SLC17A9 axis induces cancer stem cell-like properties and tumorigenesis in HCC. J Transl Med 2024; 22:537. [PMID: 38844969 PMCID: PMC11155165 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05324-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicated that HHEX participated in the initiation and development of several cancers, but the potential roles and mechanisms of HHEX in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were largely unclear. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for cancer progression owing to their stemness characteristics. We reported that HHEX was a novel CSCs target for HCC. We found that HHEX was overexpressed in HCC tissues and high expression of HHEX was associated with poor survival. Subsequently, we found that HHEX promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis and experiments verified that HHEX promoted stem cell-like properties in HCC. Mechanistically, ABI2 serving as a co-activator of transcriptional factor HHEX upregulated SLC17A9 to promote HCC cancer stem cell-like properties and tumorigenesis. Collectively, the HHEX-mediated ABI2/SLC17A9 axis contributes to HCC growth and metastasis by maintaining the CSC population, suggesting that HHEX serves as a promising therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huizi Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, The, USA
| | - Jie Lai
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinyao Su
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaqing Cao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shengxun Mao
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Actuated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Organ Transplantation Clinical Medical Center of Xiamen University, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, China.
- Department of Organ Transplantation, School of Medicine, Organ Transplantation Clinical Medical Center of Xiamen University, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, Fujian, China.
| | - Qiuping Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ganzhou People's Hospital, No. 16, Meiguan Avenue, Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, 341000, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wan X, Ma D, Song G, Tang L, Jiang X, Tian Y, Yi Z, Jiang C, Jin Y, Hu A, Bai Y. The SOX2/PDIA6 axis mediates aerobic glycolysis to promote stemness in non-small cell lung cancer cells. J Bioenerg Biomembr 2024; 56:323-332. [PMID: 38441855 DOI: 10.1007/s10863-024-10009-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an aggressive and rapidly expanding lung cancer. Abnormal upregulation or knockdown of PDIA6 expression can predict poor prognosis in various cancers. This study aimed to investigate the biological function of PDIA6 in NSCLC. SOX2 and PDIA6 expression in NSCLC tissues and regulatory relationship between them were analyzed using bioinformatics. GSEA was performed on the enrichment pathway of PDIA6. qRT-PCR was utilized to examine expression of SOX2 and PDIA6 in NSCLC tissues and cells, and dual-luciferase reporter assay and ChIP experiments were performed to validate their regulatory relationship. CCK-8 experiment was conducted to assess cell viability, western blot was to examine levels of stem cell markers and proteins related to aerobic glycolysis pathway in cells. Cell sphere formation assay was used to evaluate efficiency of cell sphere formation. Reagent kits were used to measure glycolysis levels and glycolysis products. High expression of PDIA6 in NSCLC was linked to aerobic glycolysis. Knockdown of PDIA6 reduced cell viability, expression of stem cell surface markers, and cell sphere formation efficiency in NSCLC. Overexpression of PDIA6 could enhance cell viability and promote aerobic glycolysis, but the addition of 2-DG could reverse this result. Bioinformatics predicted the existence of upstream transcription factor SOX2 for PDIA6, and SOX2 was significantly upregulated in NSCLC, and they had a binding relationship. Further experiments revealed that PDIA6 overexpression restored repressive effect of knocking down SOX2 on aerobic glycolysis and cell stemness. This work revealed that the SOX2/PDIA6 axis mediated aerobic glycolysis to promote NSCLC cell stemness, providing new therapeutic strategies for NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Wan
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Daiyuan Ma
- Department Of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital Of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Guanglin Song
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Lina Tang
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Xianxue Jiang
- Department Of Thoracic Surgery, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Yingguo Tian
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Zunli Yi
- Department Of Pathology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Chengying Jiang
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Yong Jin
- Department Of Oncology, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Anmu Hu
- Department Of Ultrasound, People's Hospital of Yuechi County, Guang 'an, 638300, China
| | - Yuju Bai
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital Of Zunyi Medical University, Intersection of Xinpu Avenue and Xinlong Avenue, Xinpu New District, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Trillo Aliaga P, Del Signore E, Fuorivia V, Spitaleri G, Asnaghi R, Attili I, Corvaja C, Carnevale Schianca A, Passaro A, de Marinis F. The Evolving Scenario of ES-SCLC Management: From Biology to New Cancer Therapeutics. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:701. [PMID: 38927637 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma accounting for 15% of lung cancers with dismal survival outcomes. Minimal changes in therapy and prognosis have occurred in SCLC for the past four decades. Recent progress in the treatment of extensive-stage disease (ES-SCLC) has been marked by incorporating immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) into platinum-based chemotherapy, leading to modest improvements. Moreover, few second-line-and-beyond treatment options are currently available. The main limitation for the molecular study of SCLC has been the scarcity of samples, because only very early diseases are treated with surgery and biopsies are not performed when the disease progresses. Despite all these difficulties, in recent years we have come to understand that SCLC is not a homogeneous disease. At the molecular level, in addition to the universal loss of retinoblastoma (RB) and TP53 genes, a recent large molecular study has identified other mutations that could serve as targets for therapy development or patient selection. In recent years, there has also been the identification of new genetic subtypes which have shown us how intertumor heterogeneity exists. Moreover, SCLC can also develop intratumoral heterogeneity linked mainly to the concept of cellular plasticity, mostly due to the development of resistance to therapies. The aim of this review is to quickly present the current standard of care of ES-SCLC, to focus on the molecular landscapes and subtypes of SCLC, subsequently present the most promising therapeutic strategies under investigation, and finally recap the future directions of ongoing clinical trials for this aggressive disease which still remains a challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Trillo Aliaga
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Ester Del Signore
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Fuorivia
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Spitaleri
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Asnaghi
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Attili
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Carla Corvaja
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Ambra Carnevale Schianca
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Haematology (DIPO), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Passaro
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo de Marinis
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shi Q, Xue C, Zeng Y, Yuan X, Chu Q, Jiang S, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhu D, Li L. Notch signaling pathway in cancer: from mechanistic insights to targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:128. [PMID: 38797752 PMCID: PMC11128457 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01828-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling, renowned for its role in regulating cell fate, organ development, and tissue homeostasis across metazoans, is highly conserved throughout evolution. The Notch receptor and its ligands are transmembrane proteins containing epidermal growth factor-like repeat sequences, typically necessitating receptor-ligand interaction to initiate classical Notch signaling transduction. Accumulating evidence indicates that the Notch signaling pathway serves as both an oncogenic factor and a tumor suppressor in various cancer types. Dysregulation of this pathway promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis in malignancies, closely linked to cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the Notch signaling pathway contributes to maintaining stem-like properties in cancer cells, thereby enhancing cancer invasiveness. The regulatory role of the Notch signaling pathway in cancer metabolic reprogramming and the tumor microenvironment suggests its pivotal involvement in balancing oncogenic and tumor suppressive effects. Moreover, the Notch signaling pathway is implicated in conferring chemoresistance to tumor cells. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these biological processes is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting Notch signaling. This review focuses on the research progress of the Notch signaling pathway in cancers, providing in-depth insights into the potential mechanisms of Notch signaling regulation in the occurrence and progression of cancer. Additionally, the review summarizes pharmaceutical clinical trials targeting Notch signaling for cancer therapy, aiming to offer new insights into therapeutic strategies for human malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingmiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danhua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ostojić M, Đurić A, Živić K, Grahovac J. Analysis of the nischarin expression across human tumor types reveals its context-dependent role and a potential as a target for drug repurposing in oncology. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299685. [PMID: 38781180 PMCID: PMC11115306 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nischarin was reported to be a tumor suppressor that plays a critical role in breast cancer initiation and progression, and a positive prognostic marker in breast, ovarian and lung cancers. Our group has found that nischarin had positive prognostic value in female melanoma patients, but negative in males. This opened up a question whether nischarin has tumor type-specific and sex-dependent roles in cancer progression. In this study, we systematically examined in the public databases the prognostic value of nischarin in solid tumors, regulation of its expression and associated signaling pathways. We also tested the effects of a nischarin agonist rilmenidine on cancer cell viability in vitro. Nischarin expression was decreased in tumors compared to the respective healthy tissues, most commonly due to the deletions of the nischarin gene and promoter methylation. Unlike in healthy tissues where it was located in the cytoplasm and at the membrane, in tumor tissues nischarin could also be observed in the nuclei, implying that nuclear translocation may also account for its cancer-specific role. Surprisingly, in several cancer types high nischarin expression was a negative prognostic marker. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that in tumors in which high nischarin expression was a negative prognostic marker, signaling pathways that regulate stemness were enriched. In concordance with the findings that nischarin expression was negatively associated with pathways that control cancer growth and progression, nischarin agonist rilmenidine decreased the viability of cancer cells in vitro. Taken together, our study lays a ground for functional studies of nischarin in a context-dependent manner and, given that nischarin has several clinically approved agonists, provides rationale for their repurposing, at least in tumors in which nischarin is predicted to be a positive prognostic marker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marija Ostojić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Đurić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristina Živić
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Grahovac
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang N, Miao X, Lu W, Ji Y, Zheng Y, Meng D, Liu H, Xiang C. RUNX3 exerts tumor-suppressive role through inhibiting EXOSC4 expression. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:103. [PMID: 38913281 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01363-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer severely affects women health. 70% of breast cancer are estrogen receptor positive. Breast cancer stem cells are a group of tumor with plasticity, causing tumor relapse and metastasis. RUNX3 is a tumor suppressor frequently inactivated in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. However, the mechanism of how RUNX3 is involved in the regualation of cancer stem cell traits in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer remains elusive. In this study, we utilized cut-tag assay to investigate the binding profile RUNX3 in BT474 and T47D cell, and confirmed EXOSC4 as the bona-fide target of RUNX3; RUNX3 could bind to the promoter are of EXOSC4 to suppress its expression. Furthermore, EXOSC4 could increase the colony formation, cell invasion and mammosphere formation ability of breast cancer cells and upregulate the the expression of SOX2 and ALDH1. Consistent with these findings, EXOSC4 was associated with poorer survival for Luminal B/Her2 breast cancer patiens. At last, we confirmed that EXOSC4 mediated the tumor suppressive role of RUNX3 in breast cancer cells. In conclusion, we demonstrate that RUNX3 directly binds to the promoter region of EXOSC4, leading to the suppression of EXOSC4 expression and exerting a tumor-suppressive effect in estrogen receptor postivive breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiaodan Miao
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wenxin Lu
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yang Ji
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Di Meng
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Chenxi Xiang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
- Department of Pathology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gach-Janczak K, Drogosz-Stachowicz J, Janecka A, Wtorek K, Mirowski M. Historical Perspective and Current Trends in Anticancer Drug Development. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1878. [PMID: 38791957 PMCID: PMC11120596 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101878] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is considered one of the leading causes of death in the 21st century. The intensive search for new anticancer drugs has been actively pursued by chemists and pharmacologists for decades, focusing either on the isolation of compounds with cytotoxic properties from plants or on screening thousands of synthetic molecules. Compounds that could potentially become candidates for new anticancer drugs must have the ability to inhibit proliferation and/or induce apoptosis in cancer cells without causing too much damage to normal cells. Some anticancer compounds were discovered by accident, others as a result of long-term research. In this review, we have presented a brief history of the development of the most important groups of anticancer drugs, pointing to the fact that they all have many side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Gach-Janczak
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | | | - Anna Janecka
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Karol Wtorek
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (K.G.-J.); (A.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Marek Mirowski
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bamodu OA, Chung CC, Pisanic TR, Wu ATH. The intricate interplay between cancer stem cells and cell-of-origin of cancer: implications for therapeutic strategies. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1404628. [PMID: 38800385 PMCID: PMC11116576 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1404628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as pivotal players in tumorigenesis, disease progression, and resistance to therapies. Objective This comprehensive review delves into the intricate relationship between CSCs and the cell-of-origin in diverse cancer types. Design Comprehensive review of thematically-relevant literature. Methods We explore the underlying molecular mechanisms that drive the conversion of normal cells into CSCs and the impact of the cell-of-origin on CSC properties, tumor initiation, and therapeutic responses. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic interventions targeting CSCs based on their distinct cell-of-origin characteristics. Results Accruing evidence suggest that the cell-of-origin, the cell type from which the tumor originates, plays a crucial role in determining the properties of CSCs and their contribution to tumor heterogeneity. Conclusion By providing critical insights into the complex interplay between CSCs and their cellular origins, this article aims to enhance our understanding of cancer biology and pave the way for more effective and personalized cancer treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oluwaseun Adebayo Bamodu
- Directorate of Postgraduate Studies, School of Clinical Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Chen-Chih Chung
- Department of Neurology, Taipei Medical University - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Neuroscience Institute, Taipei Medical University - Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Thomas R. Pisanic
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Oncology - Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alexander T. H. Wu
- The Program for Translational Medicine, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Clinical Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Qin Y, Han S, Yu Y, Qi D, Ran M, Yang M, Liu Y, Li Y, Lu L, Liu Y, Li Y. Lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma: Resistance mechanisms and strategies for improved efficacy. Liver Int 2024. [PMID: 38700443 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most prevalent and destructive causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, approximately 70% of patients with HCC exhibit advanced disease at diagnosis, limiting the potential for radical treatment. For such patients, lenvatinib, a long-awaited alternative to sorafenib for first-line targeted therapy, has become a key treatment. Unfortunately, despite some progress, the prognosis for advanced HCC remains poor because of drug resistance development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying lenvatinib resistance and ways to relief drug resistance in HCC are largely unknown and lack of systematic summary; thus, this review not only aims to explore factors contributing to lenvatinib resistance in HCC, but more importantly, summary potential methods to conquer or mitigate the resistance. The results suggest that abnormal activation of pathways, drug transport, epigenetics, tumour microenvironment, cancer stem cells, regulated cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and other mechanisms are involved in the development of lenvatinib resistance in HCC and subsequent HCC progression. To improve the therapeutic outcomes of lenvatinib, inhibiting acquired resistance, combined therapies, and nano-delivery carriers may be possible approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqing Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Shisong Han
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yahan Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Ding Qi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Mengnan Ran
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Mingqi Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunyi Li
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Zhuhai People's Hospital), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liu Y, Yao Y, Zhang Y, Xu C, Yang T, Qu M, Lu B, Song X, Pan X, Zhou W, Cui X. Identification of prognostic stemness-related genes in kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:121. [PMID: 38702698 PMCID: PMC11067181 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01870-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP) is the second most prevalent malignant cancer originating from the renal epithelium. Nowadays, cancer stem cells and stemness-related genes (SRGs) are revealed to play important roles in the carcinogenesis and metastasis of various tumors. Consequently, we aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms of SRGs in KIRP. METHODS RNA-seq profiles of 141 KIRP samples were downloaded from the TCGA database, based on which we calculated the mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi). Next, we selected the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between low- and high-mRNAsi groups. Then, we utilized weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and univariate Cox analysis to identify prognostic SRGs. Afterwards, SRGs were included in the multivariate Cox regression analysis to establish a prognostic model. In addition, a regulatory network was constructed by Pearson correlation analysis, incorporating key genes, upstream transcription factors (TFs), and downstream signaling pathways. Finally, we used Connectivity map analysis to identify the potential inhibitors. RESULTS In total, 1124 genes were characterized as DEGs between low- and high-RNAsi groups. Based on six prognostic SRGs (CCKBR, GPR50, GDNF, SPOCK3, KC877982.1, and MYO15A), a prediction model was established with an area under curve of 0.861. Furthermore, among the TFs, genes, and signaling pathways that had significant correlations, the CBX2-ASPH-Notch signaling pathway was the most significantly correlated. Finally, resveratrol might be a potential inhibitor for KIRP. CONCLUSIONS We suggested that CBX2 could regulate ASPH through activation of the Notch signaling pathway, which might be correlated with the carcinogenesis, development, and unfavorable prognosis of KIRP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Liu
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yuntao Yao
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Chengdang Xu
- Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Tianyue Yang
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Mingyu Qu
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Bingnan Lu
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xu Song
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Seventh People's Hospital, Shanghai, Shandong, 200137, China.
| | - Xiuwu Pan
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Wang Zhou
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Xingang Cui
- Department of Urology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Naser AN, Xing T, Tatum R, Lu Q, Boyer PJ, Chen YH. Colonic crypt stem cell functions are controlled by tight junction protein claudin-7 through Notch/Hippo signaling. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2024; 1535:92-108. [PMID: 38598500 PMCID: PMC11111361 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The tight junction protein claudin-7 is essential for tight junction function and intestinal homeostasis. Cldn7 deletion in mice leads to an inflammatory bowel disease-like phenotype exhibiting severe intestinal epithelial damage, weight loss, inflammation, mucosal ulcerations, and epithelial hyperplasia. Claudin-7 has also been shown to be involved in cancer metastasis and invasion. Here, we test our hypothesis that claudin-7 plays an important role in regulating colonic intestinal stem cell function. Conditional knockout of Cldn7 in the colon led to impaired epithelial cell differentiation, hyperproliferative epithelium, a decrease in active stem cells, and dramatically altered gene expression profiles. In 3D colonoid culture, claudin-7-deficient crypts were unable to survive and form spheroids, emphasizing the importance of claudin-7 in stem cell survival. Inhibition of the Hippo pathway or activation of Notch signaling partially rescued the defective stem cell behavior. Concurrent Notch activation and Hippo inhibition resulted in restored colonoid survival, growth, and differentiation to the level comparable to those of wild-type derived crypts. In this study, we highlight the essential role of claudin-7 in regulating Notch and Hippo signaling-dependent colonic stem cell functions, including survival, self-renewal, and differentiation. These new findings may shed light on potential avenues to explore for drug development in colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amna N. Naser
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Tiaosi Xing
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Neural and Behavioral Science Department, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rodney Tatum
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Philip J. Boyer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yan-Hua Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Loda A, Semeraro F, Parolini S, Ronca R, Rezzola S. Cancer stem-like cells in uveal melanoma: novel insights and therapeutic implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189104. [PMID: 38701937 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary ocular tumor in the adult population. Even though these primary tumors are successfully treated in 90% of cases, almost 50% of patients ultimately develop metastasis, mainly in the liver, via hematological dissemination, with a median survival spanning from 6 to 12 months after diagnosis. In this context, chemotherapy regimens and molecular targeted therapies have demonstrated poor response rates and failed to improve survival. Among the multiple reasons for therapy failure, the presence of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) represents the main cause of resistance to anticancer therapies. In the last few years, the existence of CSCs in UM has been demonstrated both in preclinical and clinical studies, and new molecular pathways and mechanisms have been described for this subpopulation of UM cells. Here, we will discuss the state of the art of CSC biology and their potential exploitation as therapeutic target in UM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Loda
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Eye Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Parolini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; National Center for Gene Therapy and Drugs based on RNA Technology - CN3, Padova, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Biotecnologie (CIB), Italy
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Khan AQ, Hasan A, Mir SS, Rashid K, Uddin S, Steinhoff M. Exploiting transcription factors to target EMT and cancer stem cells for tumor modulation and therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 100:1-16. [PMID: 38503384 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are essential in controlling gene regulatory networks that determine cellular fate during embryogenesis and tumor development. TFs are the major players in promoting cancer stemness by regulating the function of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Understanding how TFs interact with their downstream targets for determining cell fate during embryogenesis and tumor development is a critical area of research. CSCs are increasingly recognized for their significance in tumorigenesis and patient prognosis, as they play a significant role in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. However, traditional therapies have limited effectiveness in eliminating this subset of cells, allowing CSCs to persist and potentially form secondary tumors. Recent studies have revealed that cancer cells and tumors with CSC-like features also exhibit genes related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT-associated transcription factors (EMT-TFs) like TWIST and Snail/Slug can upregulate EMT-related genes and reprogram cancer cells into a stem-like phenotype. Importantly, the regulation of EMT-TFs, particularly through post-translational modifications (PTMs), plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and the acquisition of stem cell-like features. PTMs, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation, can alter the stability, localization, and activity of EMT-TFs, thereby modulating their ability to drive EMT and stemness properties in cancer cells. Although targeting EMT-TFs holds potential in tackling CSCs, current pharmacological approaches to do so directly are unavailable. Therefore, this review aims to explore the role of EMT- and CSC-TFs, their connection and impact in cellular development and cancer, emphasizing the potential of TF networks as targets for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Snober S Mir
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Urology,Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Xu MY, Xia ZY, Sun JX, Liu CQ, An Y, Xu JZ, Zhang SH, Zhong XY, Zeng N, Ma SY, He HD, Wang SG, Xia QD. A new perspective on prostate cancer treatment: the interplay between cellular senescence and treatment resistance. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1395047. [PMID: 38694500 PMCID: PMC11061424 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1395047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of resistance to prostate cancer (PCa) treatment, particularly to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), has posed a significant challenge in the field of PCa management. Among the therapeutic options for PCa, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy are commonly used modalities. However, these therapeutic approaches, while inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, may also trigger stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS). Cellular senescence, an entropy-driven transition from an ordered to a disordered state, ultimately leading to cell growth arrest, exhibits a dual role in PCa treatment. On one hand, senescent tumor cells may withdraw from the cell cycle, thereby reducing tumor growth rate and exerting a positive effect on treatment. On the other hand, senescent tumor cells may secrete a plethora of cytokines, growth factors and proteases that can affect neighboring tumor cells, thereby exerting a negative impact on treatment. This review explores how radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy trigger SIPS and the nuanced impact of senescent tumor cells on PCa treatment. Additionally, we aim to identify novel therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance in PCa treatment, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Qi-Dong Xia
- *Correspondence: Shao-Gang Wang, ; Qi-Dong Xia,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang C, Li Y, Miao X, Wang Y, Yang G. Knockdown of LRP5 Promotes Proliferation and Invasion of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma through Compensatory Activation of Akt Signaling. J Cancer 2024; 15:3215-3226. [PMID: 38706907 PMCID: PMC11064261 DOI: 10.7150/jca.93585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of LRP5, a critical receptor in the Wnt signaling pathway, remains unexplored in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). This study investigates the impact of LRP5 knockdown on the biological behaviors of TSCC cell lines both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings indicate that LRP5 knockdown significantly enhances cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in CAL27 and SCC25 cell lines. RNA-seq analysis reveals compensatory activation of the Akt pathway, with 119 genes significantly upregulated post-LRP5 knockdown. Elevated MMP1 expression suggests its potential involvement in TSCC progression. Western blot analysis demonstrates increased Akt phosphorylation, upregulated proliferation-related PCNA, and downregulated apoptosis-related caspase-3 after LRP5 knockdown. Down-regulation of E-cadherin and β-Catenin, proteins associated with cell adhesion and invasion, further elucidates the molecular mechanism underlying increased cell migration and invasion. Our study concludes that compensatory Akt pathway activation is essential for the LRP5 knockdown-induced migration and proliferation of CAL27 and SCC25 cells. These results highlight LRP5 as a potential therapeutic target for TSCC. Simultaneous inhibition of Wnt and Akt signaling emerges as a promising approach for TSCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Guoli Yang
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Al-Khazaleh AK, Chang D, Münch GW, Bhuyan DJ. The Gut Connection: Exploring the Possibility of Implementing Gut Microbial Metabolites in Lymphoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1464. [PMID: 38672546 PMCID: PMC11048693 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent research has implicated the gut microbiota in the development of lymphoma. Dysbiosis of the gut microbial community can disrupt the production of gut microbial metabolites, thereby impacting host physiology and potentially contributing to lymphoma. Dysbiosis-driven release of gut microbial metabolites such as lipopolysaccharides can promote chronic inflammation, potentially elevating the risk of lymphoma. In contrast, gut microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, have shown promise in preclinical studies by promoting regulatory T-cell function, suppressing inflammation, and potentially preventing lymphoma. Another metabolite, urolithin A, exhibited immunomodulatory and antiproliferative properties against lymphoma cell lines in vitro. While research on the role of gut microbial metabolites in lymphoma is limited, this article emphasizes the need to comprehend their significance, including therapeutic applications, molecular mechanisms of action, and interactions with standard chemotherapies. The article also suggests promising directions for future research in this emerging field of connection between lymphoma and gut microbiome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad K. Al-Khazaleh
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia;
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia;
| | - Gerald W. Münch
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia;
| | - Deep Jyoti Bhuyan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia;
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Radu P, Zurzu M, Tigora A, Paic V, Bratucu M, Garofil D, Surlin V, Munteanu AC, Coman IS, Popa F, Strambu V, Ramboiu S. The Impact of Cancer Stem Cells in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4140. [PMID: 38673727 PMCID: PMC11050141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite incessant research, colorectal cancer (CRC) is still one of the most common causes of fatality in both men and women worldwide. Over time, advancements in medical treatments have notably enhanced the survival rates of patients with colorectal cancer. Managing metastatic CRC involves a complex tradeoff between the potential benefits and adverse effects of treatment, considering factors like disease progression, treatment toxicity, drug resistance, and the overall impact on the patient's quality of life. An increasing body of evidence highlights the significance of the cancer stem cell (CSC) concept, proposing that CSCs occupy a central role in triggering cancer. CSCs have been a focal point of extensive research in a variety of cancer types, including CRC. Colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) play a crucial role in tumor initiation, metastasis, and therapy resistance, making them potential treatment targets. Various methods exist for isolating CCSCs, and understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance associated with them is crucial. This paper offers an overview of the current body of research pertaining to the comprehension of CSCs in colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petru Radu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Mihai Zurzu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Anca Tigora
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Vlad Paic
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Mircea Bratucu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Dragos Garofil
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Valeriu Surlin
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| | - Alexandru Claudiu Munteanu
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| | - Ionut Simion Coman
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
- General Surgery Department, “Bagdasar-Arseni” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 12 Berceni Road, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florian Popa
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Victor Strambu
- Tenth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (P.R.); (A.T.); (V.P.); (M.B.); (D.G.); (I.S.C.); (F.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Sandu Ramboiu
- Sixth Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova Emergency Clinical 7 Hospital, 200642 Craiova, Romania; (V.S.); (A.C.M.); (S.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Niu L, Hu G. EHMT2 Suppresses ARRB1 Transcription and Activates the Hedgehog Signaling to Promote Malignant Phenotype and Stem Cell Property in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01130-9. [PMID: 38573544 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01130-9] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represents the primary subtype of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), characterized by a high morbidity and mortality rate. Although previous studies have established specific correlations between euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2 (EHMT2), a histone lysine methyltransferase, and the malignant phenotype of OSCC cells, its biological functions in OSCC remain largely unknown. This study, grounded in bioinformatics predictions, aims to clarify the influence of EHMT2 on the malignant behavior of OSCC cells and delve into the underlying mechanisms. EHMT2 exhibited high expression in OSCC tissues and demonstrated an association with poor patient outcomes. Artificial EHMT2 silencing in OSCC cells, achieved through lentiviral vector infection, significantly inhibited colony formation, migration, invasion, and cell survival. Regarding the mechanism, EHMT2 was found to bind the promoter of arrestin beta 1 (ARRB1), thereby suppressing its transcription through H3K9me2 modification. ARRB1, in turn, was identified as a negative regulator of the Hedgehog pathway, leading to a reduction in the proteins GLI1 and PTCH1. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) were enriched through repeated sphere formation assays in two OSCC cell lines. EHMT2 was found to activate the Hedgehog pathway, thus promoting sphere formation, migration and invasion, survival, and tumorigenic activity of the OSCC-CSCs. Notably, these effects were counteracted by the additional overexpression of ARRB1. In conclusion, this study provides novel evidence suggesting that EHMT2 plays specific roles in enhancing stem cell properties in OSCC by modulating the ARRB1-Hedgehog signaling cascade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Niu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, No. 3999, Binjiang East Road, Fengman District, Jilin, 132011, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangyao Hu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, No. 3999, Binjiang East Road, Fengman District, Jilin, 132011, Jilin, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Islam SS, Al-Mohanna FH, Yousef IM, Al-Badawi IA, Aboussekhra A. Ovarian tumor cell-derived JAGGED2 promotes omental metastasis through stimulating the Notch signaling pathway in the mesothelial cells. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:247. [PMID: 38575576 PMCID: PMC10995149 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06512-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The primary site of metastasis for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the peritoneum, and it occurs through a multistep process that begins with adhesive contacts between cancer cells and mesothelial cells. Despite evidence that Notch signaling has a role in ovarian cancer, it is unclear how exactly it contributes to ovarian cancer omental metastasis, as well as the cellular dynamics and intrinsic pathways that drive this tropism. Here we show that tumor cells produced the Notch ligand Jagged2 is a clinically and functionally critical mediator of ovarian cancer omental metastasis by activating the Notch signaling in single-layered omental mesothelial cells. In turn, Jagged2 promotes tumor growth and therapeutic resistance by stimulating IL-6 release from mesothelial cells. Additionally, Jagged2 is a potent downstream mediator of the omental metastasis cytokine TGF-β that is released during omental destruction. Importantly, therapeutic inhibition of Jagged2-mediated omental metastasis was significantly improved by directly disrupting the Notch pathway in omental mesothelial cells. These findings highlight the key role of Jagged2 to the functional interplay between the TGF-β and the Notch signaling pathways during the metastatic process of ovarian cancer cells to the omentum and identify the Notch signaling molecule as a precision therapeutic target for ovarian cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syed S Islam
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- School of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Falah H Al-Mohanna
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Iman M Yousef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ismail A Al-Badawi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelilah Aboussekhra
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Targeting LGR4-Wnt activates ferroptosis and reverses drug resistance in colorectal cancer. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:542-543. [PMID: 38355778 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
|
25
|
Zheng H, Liu J, Cheng Q, Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Jiang L, Huang Y, Li W, Zhao Y, Chen G, Yu F, Liu L, Li Y, Liao X, Xu L, Xiao Y, Zheng Z, Li M, Wang H, Hu G, Du L, Chen Q. Targeted activation of ferroptosis in colorectal cancer via LGR4 targeting overcomes acquired drug resistance. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:572-589. [PMID: 38291304 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00715-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Acquired drug resistance is a major challenge for cancer therapy and is the leading cause of cancer mortality; however, the mechanisms of drug resistance are diverse and the strategy to specifically target drug-resistant cancer cells remains an unmet clinical issue. Here, we established a colorectal cancer-derived organoid biobank and induced acquired drug resistance by repeated low-level exposures of chemo-agents. Chemosensitivity profiling and transcriptomic analysis studies revealed that chemoresistant cancer-derived organoids exhibited elevated expression of LGR4 and activation of the Wnt signaling pathway. Further, we generated a monoclonal antibody (LGR4-mAb) that potently inhibited LGR4-Wnt signaling and found that treatment with LGR4-mAb notably sensitized drug-induced ferroptosis. Mechanistically, LGR4-dependent Wnt signaling transcriptionally upregulated SLC7A11, a key inhibitor of ferroptosis, to confer acquired drug resistance. Our findings reveal that targeting of Wnt signaling by LGR4-mAb augments ferroptosis when co-administrated with chemotherapeutic agents, demonstrating a potential opportunity to fight refractory and recurrent cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zheng
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinming Liu
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qi Cheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qianping Zhang
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingyu Jiang
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Huang
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenlei Li
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanping Zhao
- School of Statistics and Data Science, LPMC and KLMDASR, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Guo Chen
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Fan Yu
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjun Li
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- CNBG-Nankai University Joint Research and Development Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Xudong Liao
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lai Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Zheng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Hu
- School of Statistics and Data Science, LPMC and KLMDASR, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Lei Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- CNBG-Nankai University Joint Research and Development Center, Tianjin, China.
| | - Quan Chen
- The Frontier Center for Cell Response, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhu L, Zhou Q. Aberrant epigenetic regulation of FZD3 by TET2 is involved in ovarian cancer cell resistance to cisplatin. J Chemother 2024; 36:143-155. [PMID: 37300277 DOI: 10.1080/1120009x.2023.2219920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A major challenge in platinum-based cancer therapy, including cisplatin (DDP), is the clinical management of chemo-resistant tumours, which have unknown pathogenesis at the level of epigenetic mechanism. To identify potential resistance mechanisms, we integrated ovarian cancers (OC)-related GEO database retrieval and prognostic analyses. The results of bioinformatics prediction showed that frizzled class receptor 3 (FZD3) was a DDP-associated gene and closely related to the prognosis of OC. DDP resistance in OC inhibited FZD3 expression. FZD3 reduced DDP resistance in OC cells, increased the inhibitory effect of DDP on the growth and aggressiveness of DDP-resistant cells, and promoted apoptosis and DNA damage. TET2 was reduced in OC. TET2 promoted the transcription of FZD3 through DNA hydroxymethylation. TET2 sensitized the drug-resistant cells to DDP in vitro and in vivo, and the ameliorating effect of TET2 on drug resistance was significantly reversed after the inhibition of FZD3. Our findings reveal a previously unknown epigenetic axis TET2/FZD3 suppression as a potential resistance mechanism to DDP in OC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gezhouba Central Hospital of Sinopharm, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Clinical Medical College of China, Three Gorges University, Gezhouba Central Hospital of Sinopharm, Yichang, Hubei, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ruszkowska-Ciastek B, Kwiatkowska K, Marques-da-Silva D, Lagoa R. Cancer Stem Cells from Definition to Detection and Targeted Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3903. [PMID: 38612718 PMCID: PMC11011379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancers remain the second leading cause of mortality in the world. Preclinical and clinical studies point an important role of cancer/leukaemia stem cells (CSCs/LSCs) in the colonisation at secondary organ sites upon metastatic spreading, although the precise mechanisms for specific actions are still not fully understood. Reviewing the present knowledge on the crucial role of CSCs/LSCs, their plasticity, and population heterogeneity in treatment failures in cancer patients is timely. Standard chemotherapy, which acts mainly on rapidly dividing cells, is unable to adequately affect CSCs with a low proliferation rate. One of the proposed mechanisms of CSC resistance to anticancer agents is the fact that these cells can easily shift between different phases of the cell cycle in response to typical cell stimuli induced by anticancer drugs. In this work, we reviewed the recent studies on CSC/LSC alterations associated with disease recurrence, and we systematised the functional assays, markers, and novel methods for CSCs screening. This review emphasises CSCs' involvement in cancer progression and metastasis, as well as CSC/LSC targeting by synthetic and natural compounds aiming at their elimination or modulation of stemness properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruszkowska-Ciastek
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Collegium Medicum, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kwiatkowska
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Jan Biziel University Hospital No. 2, 85-168 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Dorinda Marques-da-Silva
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal; (D.M.-d.-S.); (R.L.)
- Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Morro do Lena-Alto do Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Lagoa
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal; (D.M.-d.-S.); (R.L.)
- Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Morro do Lena-Alto do Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yang W, Chen H, Ma L, Wei M, Xue X, Li Y, Jin Z, dong J, Xiao H. The oncogene MYBL2 promotes the malignant phenotype and suppresses apoptosis through hedgehog signaling pathway in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27772. [PMID: 38510035 PMCID: PMC10950673 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple cancers have been associated with MYB-related protein B (MYBL2), its involvement in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has yet to be demonstrated. Our study revealed a significant upregulation of MYBL2 in ccRCC tissues, correlating with clinicopathological features and patient prognosis. Increased MYBL2 expression promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis. RNA-seq analysis unveiled a reduction in smoothened (SMO) expression upon MYBL2 silencing. However, luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays demonstrated MYBL2's positive regulation of SMO expression by directly targeting the SMO promoter. Reintroduction of SMO expression in MYBL2-knocked down cells partially restored cell proliferation and mitigated apoptosis inhibition. Overall, these results indicate that MYBL2 facilitates ccRCC progression by enhancing SMO expression, suggesting its potential as an intriguing drug target for ccRCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mengchao Wei
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Xue
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Yingjie Li
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Zhaoheng Jin
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Jie dong
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - He Xiao
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100000, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Xie Q, Zhang H, Wang M, Yan K, Hu F, Xu M. A model about regulation on three division modes of stem cell. J Theor Biol 2024; 581:111746. [PMID: 38280545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2024.111746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
We construct a multi-stage cell lineage model for cell division, apoptosis and movement. Cells are assumed to secrete and respond to negative feedback molecules which act as a control on the stem cell divisions (including self-renewal, asymmetrical cell division (ACD) and differentiation). The densities of cells and molecules are described by coupled reaction-diffusion partial differential equations, and the plane wavefront propagation speeds can be obtained analytically and verified numerically. It is found that with ACD the population and propagation of stem cells can be promoted but the negative regulation on self-renewal and differentiation will work slowly. Regulatory inhibition on differentiation will inversely increase stem cells but not affect the population and wave propagation of the cell lineage. While negative regulation on self-renewal and ACD will decrease the population of stem cells and slow down the propagation, and even drive stem cells to extinction. Moreover we find that inhibition on self-renewal has a strength advantage while inhibition on ACD has a range advantage to kill stem cells. Possible relations to model cancer development and therapy are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingxin Xie
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Han Zhang
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Maoxiang Wang
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China.
| | - Kexun Yan
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Fenglan Hu
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Meng Xu
- School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hu R, Cao Y, Wang Y, Zhao T, Yang K, Fan M, Guan M, Hou Y, Ying J, Ma X, Deng N, Sun X, Zhang Y, Zhang X. TMEM120B strengthens breast cancer cell stemness and accelerates chemotherapy resistance via β1-integrin/FAK-TAZ-mTOR signaling axis by binding to MYH9. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:48. [PMID: 38504374 PMCID: PMC10949598 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01802-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer stem cell (CSC) expansion results in tumor progression and chemoresistance; however, the modulation of CSC pluripotency remains unexplored. Transmembrane protein 120B (TMEM120B) is a newly discovered protein expressed in human tissues, especially in malignant tissues; however, its role in CSC expansion has not been studied. This study aimed to determine the role of TMEM120B in transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ)-mediated CSC expansion and chemotherapy resistance. METHODS Both bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemistry assays were performed to examine expression patterns of TMEM120B in lung, breast, gastric, colon, and ovarian cancers. Clinicopathological factors and overall survival were also evaluated. Next, colony formation assay, MTT assay, EdU assay, transwell assay, wound healing assay, flow cytometric analysis, sphere formation assay, western blotting analysis, mouse xenograft model analysis, RNA-sequencing assay, immunofluorescence assay, and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction were performed to investigate the effect of TMEM120B interaction on proliferation, invasion, stemness, chemotherapy sensitivity, and integrin/FAK/TAZ/mTOR activation. Further, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis, GST pull-down assay, and immunoprecipitation assays were performed to evaluate the interactions between TMEM120B, myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9), and CUL9. RESULTS TMEM120B expression was elevated in lung, breast, gastric, colon, and ovarian cancers. TMEM120B expression positively correlated with advanced TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis. Overexpression of TMEM120B promoted breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and stemness by activating TAZ-mTOR signaling. TMEM120B directly bound to the coil-coil domain of MYH9, which accelerated the assembly of focal adhesions (FAs) and facilitated the translocation of TAZ. Furthermore, TMEM120B stabilized MYH9 by preventing its degradation by CUL9 in a ubiquitin-dependent manner. Overexpression of TMEM120B enhanced resistance to docetaxel and doxorubicin. Conversely, overexpression of TMEM120B-∆CCD delayed the formation of FAs, suppressed TAZ-mTOR signaling, and abrogated chemotherapy resistance. TMEM120B expression was elevated in breast cancer patients with poor treatment outcomes (Miller/Payne grades 1-2) than in those with better outcomes (Miller/Payne grades 3-5). CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals that TMEM120B bound to and stabilized MYH9 by preventing its degradation. This interaction activated the β1-integrin/FAK-TAZ-mTOR signaling axis, maintaining stemness and accelerating chemotherapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Hu
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tingting Zhao
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kaibo Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mingwei Fan
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Mengyao Guan
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Yuekang Hou
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Jiao Ying
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China
| | - Xiaowen Ma
- Second Department of Clinical Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ning Deng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China.
| | - Xiupeng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Sheva K, Roy Chowdhury S, Kravchenko-Balasha N, Meirovitz A. Molecular Changes in Breast Cancer Induced by Radiation Therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024:S0360-3016(24)00435-8. [PMID: 38508467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2024.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer treatments are based on prognostic clinicopathologic features that form the basis for therapeutic guidelines. Although the utilization of these guidelines has decreased breast cancer-associated mortality rates over the past three decades, they are not adequate for individualized therapy. Radiation therapy (RT) is the backbone of breast cancer treatment. Although a highly successful therapeutic modality clinically, from a biological perspective, preclinical studies have shown RT to have the potential to alter tumor cell phenotype, immunogenicity, and the surrounding microenvironment, potentially changing the behavior of cancer cells and resulting in a significant variation in RT response. This review presents the recent advances in revealing the complex molecular changes induced by RT in the treatment of breast cancer and highlights the complexities of translating this information into clinically relevant tools for improved prognostic insights and the revelation of novel approaches for optimizing RT. METHODS AND MATERIALS Current literature was reviewed with a focus on recent advances made in the elucidation of tumor-associated radiation-induced molecular changes across molecular, genetic, and proteomic bases. This review was structured with the aim of providing an up-to-date overview over the very broad and complex subject matter of radiation-induced molecular changes and radioresistance, familiarizing the reader with the broader issue at hand. RESULTS The subject of radiation-induced molecular changes in breast cancer has been broached from various physiological focal points including that of the immune system, immunogenicity and the abscopal effect, tumor hypoxia, breast cancer classification and subtyping, molecular heterogeneity, and molecular plasticity. It is becoming increasingly apparent that breast cancer clinical subtyping alone does not adequately account for variation in RT response or radioresistance. Multiple components of the tumor microenvironment and immune system, delivered RT dose and fractionation schedules, radiation-induced bystander effects, and intrinsic tumor physiology and heterogeneity all contribute to the resultant RT outcome. CONCLUSIONS Despite recent advances and improvements in anticancer therapies, tumor resistance remains a significant challenge. As new analytical techniques and technologies continue to provide crucial insight into the complex molecular mechanisms of breast cancer and its treatment responses, it is becoming more evident that personalized anticancer treatment regimens may be vital in overcoming radioresistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Sheva
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
| | - Sangita Roy Chowdhury
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nataly Kravchenko-Balasha
- The Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Amichay Meirovitz
- The Legacy Heritage Oncology Center & Dr Larry Norton Institute, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Faculty of Medicine, Be'er Sheva, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang X, Su T, Wu Y, Cai Y, Wang L, Liang C, Zhou L, Wang S, Li XX, Peng S, Kuang M, Yu J, Xu L. N6-Methyladenosine Reader YTHDF1 Promotes Stemness and Therapeutic Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Enhancing NOTCH1 Expression. Cancer Res 2024; 84:827-840. [PMID: 38241695 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification is the most common and conserved epigenetic modification in mRNA and has been shown to play important roles in cancer biology. As the m6A reader YTHDF1 has been reported to promote progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it represents a potential therapeutic target. In this study, we evaluated the clinical significance of YTHDF1 using human HCC samples and found that YTHDF1 was significantly upregulated in HCCs with high stemness scores and was positively associated with recurrence and poor prognosis. Analysis of HCC spheroids revealed that YTHDF1 was highly expressed in liver cancer stem cells (CSC). Stem cell-specific conditional Ythdf1 knockin (CKI) mice treated with diethylnitrosamine showed elevated tumor burden as compared with wild-type mice. YTHDF1 promoted CSCs renewal and resistance to the multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors lenvatinib and sorafenib in patient-derived organoids and HCC cell lines, which could be abolished by catalytically inactive mutant YTHDF1. Multiomic analysis, including RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, ribosome profiling, and RNA sequencing identified NOTCH1 as a direct downstream of YTHDF1. YTHDF1 bound to m6A modified NOTCH1 mRNA to enhance its stability and translation, which led to increased NOTCH1 target genes expression. NOTCH1 overexpression rescued HCC stemness in YTHDF1-deficient cells in vitro and in vivo. Lipid nanoparticles targeting YTHDF1 significantly enhanced the efficacy of lenvatinib and sorafenib in HCC in vivo. Taken together, YTHDF1 drives HCC stemness and drug resistance through an YTHDF1-m6A-NOTCH1 epitranscriptomic axis, and YTHDF1 is a potential therapeutic target for treating HCC. SIGNIFICANCE Inhibition of YTHDF1 expression suppresses stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and enhances sensitivity to targeted therapies, indicating that targeting YTHDF1 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianhong Su
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Afliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhong Cai
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lina Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Liang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiyan Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xing Li
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sui Peng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Afliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Trials Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Lixia Xu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zhang M, Ma Z, Yi Z, Wang H, Zhu J, Wen G, Jin H, An J, Deng Z, Tuo B, Li T, Liu X. SLC26A9 promotes colorectal tumorigenesis by modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:123. [PMID: 38461207 PMCID: PMC10925040 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01888-6] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Solute carrier family 26 member 9 (SLC26A9) is a member of the Slc26a family of multifunctional anion transporters that functions as a Cl- channel in parietal cells during acid secretion. We explored the role of SLC26A9 in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its related mechanisms through clinical samples from CRC patients, CRC cell lines and mouse models. We observed that SLC26A9 was expressed at low levels in the cytoplasm of adjacent tissues, polyps and adenomas but was significantly increased in colorectal adenocarcinoma. Moreover, increased levels of SLC26A9 were associated with a high risk of disease and poor prognosis. In addition, downregulation of SLC26A9 in CRC cells induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis but inhibited cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic analysis revealed that SLC26A9 was colocalized with β-catenin in the nucleus of CRC cells. The translocation of these two proteins from the cytoplasm to the nucleus reflected the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and promoted the transcription of downstream target proteins, including CyclinD1, c-Myc and Snail, but inhibited the expression of cytochrome C (Cyt-c), cleaved Caspase9, cleaved Caspase3 and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). CRC is accompanied by alteration of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. Meanwhile, further studies showed that in SW48 cells, overexpressing SLC26A9 was cocultured with the β-catenin inhibitor XAV-939, β-catenin was downregulated, and EMT was reversed. Our study demonstrated SLC26A9 may be responsible for alterations in the proliferative ability and aggressive potential of CRC by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minglin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhiyuan Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Guorong Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hai Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jiaxing An
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zilin Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Biguang Tuo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.
| | - Taolang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wang S, Wang L, Li H, Zhang J, Peng J, Cheng B, Song M, Hu Q. Correlation analysis of plasma lipid profiles and the prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Dis 2024; 30:329-341. [PMID: 36444706 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to clarify whether blood lipid profiles are indicators of prognosis in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). METHODS This retrospective study included 512 T1/2N0M0 HNSCC patients. The correlation between blood lipid profiles and progression-free survival (PFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) was analyzed by multivariate analysis. The data from TCGA was also analyzed to investigate the expression levels and prognostic values of different lipoprotein receptors essential for specific lipid uptake. RESULTS A high level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) indicated better PFS and DSS, and a low level of apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I) indicated better PFS, while a high level of apolipoprotein B (Apo B) indicated poorer PFS and DSS. The Apo A-I receptor gene SCARB1 was upregulated and associated with poor survival in HNSCC patients. Activation of SCARB1 was implicated in a series of tumor-promoting pathways. There was no significant correlation between the expression of LDL-C and Apo B-related receptors and prognosis. CONCLUSION A high level of LDL-C and a low level of Apo A-I are protective factors for HNSCC, while a high level of Apo B is a risk factor. The upregulation of SCARB1 may participate in the progression of HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Wang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayu Zhang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Peng
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Cheng
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Song
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinchao Hu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Singh H, Chopra H, Singh I, Mohanto S, Ahmed MG, Ghumra S, Seelan A, Survase M, Kumar A, Mishra A, Mishra AK, Kamal MA. Molecular targeted therapies for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: recent developments and clinical implications. EXCLI JOURNAL 2024; 23:300-334. [PMID: 38655092 PMCID: PMC11036065 DOI: 10.17179/excli2023-6489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cSCC) is a common and potentially fatal type of skin cancer that poses a significant threat to public health and has a high prevalence rate. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the skin surface increases the risk of cSCC, especially in those with genetic syndromes like xerodermapigmentosum and epidermolysis bullosa. Therefore, understanding the molecular pathogenesis of cSCC is critical for developing personalized treatment approaches that are effective in cSCC. This article provides a comprehensive overview of current knowledge of cSCC pathogenesis, emphasizing dysregulated signaling pathways and the significance of molecular profiling. Several limitations and challenges associated with conventional therapies, however, are identified, stressing the need for novel therapeutic strategies. The article further discusses molecular targets and therapeutic approaches, i.e., epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, hedgehog pathway inhibitors, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitors, as well as emerging molecular targets and therapeutic agents. The manuscript explores resistance mechanisms to molecularly targeted therapies and proposes methods to overcome them, including combination strategies, rational design, and optimization. The clinical implications and patient outcomes of molecular-targeted treatments are assessed, including response rates and survival outcomes. The management of adverse events and toxicities in molecular-targeted therapies is crucial and requires careful monitoring and control. The paper further discusses future directions for therapeutic advancement and research in this area, as well as the difficulties and constraints associated with conventional therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harpreet Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IFTM University, Moradabad, U.P., India, 244102
| | - Hitesh Chopra
- Department of Biosciences, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai - 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Inderbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sourav Mohanto
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Yenepoya Pharmacy College & Research Center, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, 575018, India
| | - Mohammed Gulzar Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Yenepoya Pharmacy College & Research Center, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, 575018, India
| | - Shruti Ghumra
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NarseeMonjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Pherozeshah Mehta Rd, Mumbai, India, 400056
| | - Anmol Seelan
- Mahatma Gandhi Mission, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Aurangabad, India
| | - Manisha Survase
- Mahatma Gandhi Mission, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Aurangabad, India
| | - Arvind Kumar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IFTM University, Moradabad, U.P., India, 244102
| | - Amrita Mishra
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India, 110017
| | - Arun Kumar Mishra
- SOS School of Pharmacy, IFTM University, Moradabad, U.P., India, 244102
| | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Bangladesh
- Enzymoics, 7 Peterlee Place, Hebersham, NSW 2770; Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Fedele M, Cerchia L, Battista S. Subtype Transdifferentiation in Human Cancer: The Power of Tissue Plasticity in Tumor Progression. Cells 2024; 13:350. [PMID: 38391963 PMCID: PMC10887430 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The classification of tumors into subtypes, characterized by phenotypes determined by specific differentiation pathways, aids diagnosis and directs therapy towards targeted approaches. However, with the advent and explosion of next-generation sequencing, cancer phenotypes are turning out to be far more heterogenous than initially thought, and the classification is continually being updated to include more subtypes. Tumors are indeed highly dynamic, and they can evolve and undergo various changes in their characteristics during disease progression. The picture becomes even more complex when the tumor responds to a therapy. In all these cases, cancer cells acquire the ability to transdifferentiate, changing subtype, and adapt to changing microenvironments. These modifications affect the tumor's growth rate, invasiveness, response to treatment, and overall clinical behavior. Studying tumor subtype transitions is crucial for understanding tumor evolution, predicting disease outcomes, and developing personalized treatment strategies. We discuss this emerging hallmark of cancer and the molecular mechanisms involved at the crossroads between tumor cells and their microenvironment, focusing on four different human cancers in which tissue plasticity causes a subtype switch: breast cancer, prostate cancer, glioblastoma, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Fedele
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council—CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.C.); (S.B.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sinha S, Hembram KC, Chatterjee S. Targeting signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: A potential approach for developing novel anti-cancer therapeutics. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 385:157-209. [PMID: 38663959 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as prime players in the intricate landscape of cancer development, progression, and resistance to traditional treatments. These unique cellular subpopulations own the remarkable capability of self-renewal and differentiation, giving rise to the diverse cellular makeup of tumors and fostering their recurrence following conventional therapies. In the quest for developing more effective cancer therapeutics, the focus has now shifted toward targeting the signaling pathways that govern CSCs behavior. This chapter underscores the significance of these signaling pathways in CSC biology and their potential as pivotal targets for the development of novel chemotherapy approaches. We delve into several key signaling pathways essential for maintaining the defining characteristics of CSCs, including the Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, JAK-STAT, NF-κB pathways, among others, shedding light on their potential crosstalk. Furthermore, we highlight the latest advancements in CSC-targeted therapies, spanning from promising preclinical models to ongoing clinical trials. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular aspects of CSC signaling pathways and their manipulation holds the prospective to revolutionize cancer treatment paradigms. This, in turn, could lead to more efficacious and personalized therapies with the ultimate goal of eradicating CSCs and enhancing overall patient outcomes. The exploration of CSC signaling pathways represents a key step towards a brighter future in the battle against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Sinha
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Subhajit Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Rawal P, Tripathi DM, Hemati H, Kumar J, Tyagi P, Sarin SK, Nain V, Kaur S. Targeted HBx gene editing by CRISPR/Cas9 system effectively reduces epithelial to mesenchymal transition and HBV replication in hepatoma cells. Liver Int 2024; 44:614-624. [PMID: 38105495 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) play a key role in pathogenesis of HBV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by promoting epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). In this study, we hypothesized that inhibition of HBx is an effective strategy to combat HCC. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS We designed and synthesized novel HBx gene specific single guide RNA (sgRNA) with CRISPR/Cas9 system and studied its in vitro effects on tumour properties of HepG2-2.15. Full length HBx gene was excised using HBx-CRISPR that resulted in significant knockdown of HBx expression in hepatoma cells. HBx-CRISPR also decreased levels of HBsAg and HBV cccDNA expression. A decreased expression of mesenchymal markers, proliferation and tumorigenic properties was observed in HBx-CRISPR treated cells as compared to controls in both two- and three- dimensional (2D and 3D) tumour models. Transcriptomics data showed that out of 1159 differentially expressed genes in HBx-CRISPR transfected cells as compared to controls, 70 genes were upregulated while 1089 genes associated with cell proliferation and EMT pathways were downregulated. CONCLUSION Thus, targeting of HBx by CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system reduces covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) levels, HBsAg production and mesenchymal characteristics of HBV-HCC cells. We envision inhibition of HBx by CRISPR as a novel therapeutic approach for HBV-induced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Preety Rawal
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Dinesh Mani Tripathi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Hamed Hemati
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Jitendra Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Purnima Tyagi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Shiv Kumar Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Vikrant Nain
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Savneet Kaur
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Williams CH, Neitzel LR, Cornell J, Rea S, Mills I, Silver MS, Ahmad JD, Birukov KG, Birukova A, Brem H, Tyler B, Bar EE, Hong CC. GPR68-ATF4 signaling is a novel prosurvival pathway in glioblastoma activated by acidic extracellular microenvironment. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:13. [PMID: 38291540 PMCID: PMC10829393 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00468-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stands as a formidable challenge in oncology because of its aggressive nature and severely limited treatment options. Despite decades of research, the survival rates for GBM remain effectively stagnant. A defining hallmark of GBM is a highly acidic tumor microenvironment, which is thought to activate pro-tumorigenic pathways. This acidification is the result of altered tumor metabolism favoring aerobic glycolysis, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. Low extracellular pH confers radioresistant tumors to glial cells. Notably GPR68, an acid sensing GPCR, is upregulated in radioresistant GBM. Usage of Lorazepam, which has off target agonism of GPR68, is linked to worse clinical outcomes for a variety of cancers. However, the role of tumor microenvironment acidification in GPR68 activation has not been assessed in cancer. Here we interrogate the role of GPR68 specifically in GBM cells using a novel highly specific small molecule inhibitor of GPR68 named Ogremorphin (OGM) to induce the iron mediated cell death pathway: ferroptosis. METHOD OGM was identified in a non-biased zebrafish embryonic development screen and validated with Morpholino and CRISPR based approaches. Next, A GPI-anchored pH reporter, pHluorin2, was stably expressed in U87 glioblastoma cells to probe extracellular acidification. Cell survival assays, via nuclei counting and cell titer glo, were used to demonstrate sensitivity to GPR68 inhibition in twelve immortalized and PDX GBM lines. To determine GPR68 inhibition's mechanism of cell death we use DAVID pathway analysis of RNAseq. Our major indication, ferroptosis, was then confirmed by western blotting and qRT-PCR of reporter genes including TFRC. This finding was further validated by transmission electron microscopy and liperfluo staining to assess lipid peroxidation. Lastly, we use siRNA and CRISPRi to demonstrate the critical role of ATF4 suppression via GPR68 for GBM survival. RESULTS We used a pHLourin2 probe to demonstrate how glioblastoma cells acidify their microenvironment to activate the commonly over expressed acid sensing GPCR, GPR68. Using our small molecule inhibitor OGM and genetic means, we show that blocking GPR68 signaling results in robust cell death in all thirteen glioblastoma cell lines tested, irrespective of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity, or resistance to the mainstay GBM chemotherapeutic temozolomide. We use U87 and U138 glioblastoma cell lines to show how selective induction of ferroptosis occurs in an ATF4-dependent manner. Importantly, OGM was not-acutely toxic to zebrafish and its inhibitory effects were found to spare non-malignant neural cells. CONCLUSION These results indicate GPR68 emerges as a critical sensor for an autocrine pro-tumorigenic signaling cascade triggered by extracellular acidification in glioblastoma cells. In this context, GPR68 suppresses ATF4, inhibition of GPR68 increases expression of ATF4 which leads to ferroptotic cell death. These findings provide a promising therapeutic approach to selectively induce ferroptosis in glioblastoma cells while sparing healthy neural tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles H Williams
- Department of Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Henry Ford Health + Michigan State Health Sciences, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Leif R Neitzel
- Department of Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Henry Ford Health + Michigan State Health Sciences, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jessica Cornell
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Samantha Rea
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ian Mills
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maya S Silver
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jovanni D Ahmad
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Konstantin G Birukov
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna Birukova
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Henry Brem
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Betty Tyler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eli E Bar
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles C Hong
- Department of Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA.
- Henry Ford Health + Michigan State Health Sciences, Detroit, MI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhao Q, Zong H, Zhu P, Su C, Tang W, Chen Z, Jin S. Crosstalk between colorectal CSCs and immune cells in tumorigenesis, and strategies for targeting colorectal CSCs. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:6. [PMID: 38254219 PMCID: PMC10802076 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy in the treatment of colorectal cancer, and relapse after tumor immunotherapy has attracted increasing attention. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of tumor cells with self-renewal and differentiation capacities, are resistant to traditional therapies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Recently, CSCs have been proven to be the cells driving tumor relapse after immunotherapy. However, the mutual interactions between CSCs and cancer niche immune cells are largely uncharacterized. In this review, we focus on colorectal CSCs, CSC-immune cell interactions and CSC-based immunotherapy. Colorectal CSCs are characterized by robust expression of surface markers such as CD44, CD133 and Lgr5; hyperactivation of stemness-related signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin, Hippo/Yap1, Jak/Stat and Notch pathways; and disordered epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and noncoding RNA action. Moreover, colorectal CSCs express abnormal levels of immune-related genes such as MHC and immune checkpoint molecules and mutually interact with cancer niche cells in multiple tumorigenesis-related processes, including tumor initiation, maintenance, metastasis and drug resistance. To date, many therapies targeting CSCs have been evaluated, including monoclonal antibodies, antibody‒drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, tumor vaccines adoptive cell therapy, and small molecule inhibitors. With the development of CSC-/niche-targeting technology, as well as the integration of multidisciplinary studies, novel therapies that eliminate CSCs and reverse their immunosuppressive microenvironment are expected to be developed for the treatment of solid tumors, including colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hong Zong
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Pingping Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chang Su
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Wenxue Tang
- The Research and Application Center of Precision Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 2 Jing‑ba Road, Zhengzhou, 450014, China.
| | - Zhenzhen Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Shuiling Jin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Al Hmada Y, Brodell RT, Kharouf N, Flanagan TW, Alamodi AA, Hassan SY, Shalaby H, Hassan SL, Haikel Y, Megahed M, Santourlidis S, Hassan M. Mechanisms of Melanoma Progression and Treatment Resistance: Role of Cancer Stem-like Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:470. [PMID: 38275910 PMCID: PMC10814963 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, characterized by its heterogeneity and propensity to metastasize to distant organs. Melanoma is a heterogeneous tumor, composed of genetically divergent subpopulations, including a small fraction of melanoma-initiating cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and many non-cancer stem cells (non-CSCs). CSCs are characterized by their unique surface proteins associated with aberrant signaling pathways with a causal or consequential relationship with tumor progression, drug resistance, and recurrence. Melanomas also harbor significant alterations in functional genes (BRAF, CDKN2A, NRAS, TP53, and NF1). Of these, the most common are the BRAF and NRAS oncogenes, with 50% of melanomas demonstrating the BRAF mutation (BRAFV600E). While the successful targeting of BRAFV600E does improve overall survival, the long-term efficacy of available therapeutic options is limited due to adverse side effects and reduced clinical efficacy. Additionally, drug resistance develops rapidly via mechanisms involving fast feedback re-activation of MAPK signaling pathways. This article updates information relevant to the mechanisms of melanoma progression and resistance and particularly the mechanistic role of CSCs in melanoma progression, drug resistance, and recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Al Hmada
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Robert T. Brodell
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Naji Kharouf
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas W. Flanagan
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Abdulhadi A. Alamodi
- College of Health Sciences, Jackson State University, 310 W Woodrow Wilson Ave Ste 300, Jackson, MS 39213, USA;
| | - Sofie-Yasmin Hassan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Hosam Shalaby
- Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Sarah-Lilly Hassan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Youssef Haikel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Pôle de Médecine et Chirurgie Bucco-Dentaire, Hôpital Civil, Hôpitaux Universitaire de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Mosaad Megahed
- Clinic of Dermatology, University Hospital of Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Simeon Santourlidis
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Medical Faculty, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Mohamed Hassan
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Research Laboratory of Surgery-Oncology, Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Housini M, Dariya B, Ahmed N, Stevens A, Fiadjoe H, Nagaraju GP, Basha R. Colorectal cancer: Genetic alterations, novel biomarkers, current therapeutic strategies and clinical trials. Gene 2024; 892:147857. [PMID: 37783294 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly detected cancer with a serious global health issue. The rates for incidence and mortality for CRC are alarming, especially since the prognosis is abysmal when the CRC is diagnosed at an advanced or metastatic stage. Both type of (modifiable/ non-modifiable) types of risk factors are established for CRC. Despite the advances in recent technology and sophisticated research, the survival rate is still meager due to delays in diagnosis. Therefore, there is urgently required to identify critical biomarkers aiming at early diagnosis and improving effective therapeutic strategies. Additionally, a complete understanding of the dysregulated pathways like PI3K/Akt, Notch, and Wnt associated with CRC progression and metastasis is very beneficial in designing a therapeutic regimen. This review article focused on the dysregulated signaling pathways, genetics and epigenetics alterations, and crucial biomarkers of CRC. This review also provided the list of clinical trials targeting signaling cascades and therapies involving small molecules. This review discusses up-to-date information on novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies alongside specific clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Housini
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
| | - Begum Dariya
- Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 5545, United States
| | - Nadia Ahmed
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Alyssa Stevens
- Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO 64801, United States
| | - Hope Fiadjoe
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States.
| | - Riyaz Basha
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Han S, Xu Y, Chen D, Yang F, Wang M, Zhou Q, Wang G, Li L, Xu C, Wang W, Cai S, Xing N. Notch activation defines immune-suppressive subsets of ccRCCs with unfavorable benefits from immunotherapy over VEGFR/mTOR inhibitors. iScience 2024; 27:108290. [PMID: 38179060 PMCID: PMC10765066 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolutionarily conserved Notch pathway, involved in cancer stem cell capacity and cancer immunity, may predict the benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). In the TCGA dataset, mRNA expression of Notch pathway genes identified three clusters with different prognoses and molecular characteristics. Based on the differentially expressed Notch pathway genes between clusters, we constructed the Notch-score, correlated with Notch activation, angiogenesis, PI3K-AKT-mTOR activity, and sensitivities to VEGFR/mTOR inhibitors. A high Notch-score was linked with more "resting"/"anti-inflammatory" rather than "activated"/"pro-inflammatory" tumor-infiltrating immune cells, inactivated immune pathways, and scarce any benefits from ICI-based therapies over VEGFR/mTOR inhibitors in the JAVELIN Renal 101 (avelumab plus axitinib vs. sunitinib) and the CheckMate-009/010/025 trials (nivolumab vs. everolimus). For the Notch-activated ccRCCs, ICIs provide limited advantages and might not be strongly recommended, by which the cost-effectiveness of treatments in ccRCCs may be potentially improved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujun Han
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Xu
- Burning Rock Biotech, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Feiya Yang
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingshuai Wang
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoxia Zhou
- Burning Rock Biotech, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | | | - Leo Li
- Burning Rock Biotech, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunwei Xu
- Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenxian Wang
- Department of Clinical Trial, The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shangli Cai
- Burning Rock Biotech, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Nianzeng Xing
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Urology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kulkarni PP, Ekhlak M, Dash D. Non-canonical non-genomic morphogen signaling in anucleate platelets: a critical determinant of prothrombotic function in circulation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:13. [PMID: 38172855 PMCID: PMC10763172 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01448-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Circulating platelets derived from bone marrow megakaryocytes play a central role in thrombosis and hemostasis. Despite being anucleate, platelets express several proteins known to have nuclear niche. These include transcription factors and steroid receptors whose non-genomic functions are being elucidated in platelets. Quite remarkably, components of some of the best-studied morphogen pathways, namely Notch, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), and Wnt have also been described in recent years in platelets, which regulate platelet function in the context of thrombosis as well as influence their survival. Shh and Notch pathways in stimulated platelets establish feed-forward loops of autocrine/juxtacrine/paracrine non-canonical signaling that helps perpetuate thrombosis. On the other hand, non-canonical Wnt signaling is part of a negative feedback loop for restricting platelet activation and possibly limiting thrombus growth. The present review will provide an overview of these signaling pathways in general. We will then briefly discuss the non-genomic roles of transcription factors and steroid receptors in platelet activation. This will be followed by an elaborate description of morphogen signaling in platelets with a focus on their bearing on platelet activation leading to hemostasis and thrombosis as well as their potential for therapeutic targeting in thrombotic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paresh P Kulkarni
- Center for Advanced Research on Platelet Signaling and Thrombosis Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Mohammad Ekhlak
- Center for Advanced Research on Platelet Signaling and Thrombosis Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Debabrata Dash
- Center for Advanced Research on Platelet Signaling and Thrombosis Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ni T, Chu Z, Tao L, Zhao Y, Lv M, Zhu M, Luo Y, Sunagawa M, Wang H, Liu Y. Celastrus orbiculatus extract suppresses gastric cancer stem cells through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. J Nat Med 2024; 78:100-113. [PMID: 37817006 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-023-01748-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the primary source of tumor recurrence and chemoresistance, which complicates tumor treatment and has a significant impact on poor patient prognosis. Therefore, the discovery of inhibitors that specifically target CSCs is warranted. Previous research has established that the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway is critical for the maintenance of CSCs phenotype, thus facilitating CSCs transformation. In this regard, Celastrus orbiculatus ethyl acetate extract (COE) was shown to exert anticancer properties; however, its therapeutic impact on gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) remains unknown. We here demonstrate that COE displayed a strong inhibitory effect on GCSCs growth and CSCs markers. Moreover, COE was shown to efficiently inhibit the development of tumor spheres and accelerate GCSCs apoptosis. Mechanistically, we established that COE could suppress the stemness phenotype of GCSCs by inhibiting the activity of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. To summarize, our data indicate that COE suppresses the malignant biological phenotype of GCSCs via the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. These findings shed new light on the anticancer properties of COE and suggest new strategies for the development of efficient GCSCs therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tengyang Ni
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zewen Chu
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Tao
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengying Lv
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Miao Zhu
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Luo
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China
| | - Masataka Sunagawa
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Showa University, Tokyo, 142, Japan
| | - Haibo Wang
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanqing Liu
- TCM Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, No. 136, Jiangyang Middle Road, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Wang E, Yang QJ, Xu XX, Zou QC, Long Y, Ma G, Deng ZH, Zhao JB, Li MH, Zeng J. Differential pathogenic and molecular features in neurological infection of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5.2 and BA.2.75 and Delta. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29357. [PMID: 38235532 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains a global threat, exacerbated by the emergence of viral variants. Two variants of SARS-CoV-2, Omicron BA.2.75 and BA.5, led to global infection peaks between May 2022 and May 2023, yet their precise characteristics in pathogenesis are not well understood. In this study, we compared these two Omicron sublineages with the previously dominant Delta variant using a human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 knock-in mouse model. As expected, Delta exhibited higher viral replication in the lung and brain than both Omicron sublineages which induced less severe lung damage and immune activation. In contrast, the Omicron variants especially BA.5.2 showed a propensity for cellular proliferation and developmental pathways. Both Delta and BA.5.2 variants, but not BA.2.75, led to decreased pulmonary lymphocytes, indicating differential adaptive immune response. Neuroinvasiveness was shared with all strains, accompanied by vascular abnormalities, synaptic injury, and loss of astrocytes. However, Immunostaining assays and transcriptomic analysis showed that BA.5.2 displayed stronger immune suppression and neurodegeneration, while BA.2.75 exhibited more similar characteristics to Delta in the cortex. Such differentially infectious features could be partially attributed to the weakened interaction between Omicron Spike protein and host proteomes decoded via co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry in neuronal cells. Our present study supports attenuated replication and pathogenicity of Omicron variants but also highlights their newly infectious characteristics in the lung and brain, especially with BA.5.2 demonstrating enhanced immune evasion and neural damage that could exacerbate neurological sequelae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erlin Wang
- Songjiang Research Institute, Songjiang Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Qiao-Jiang Yang
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiang-Xiong Xu
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Qing-Cui Zou
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yanghaopeng Long
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Guanqin Ma
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhong-Hua Deng
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jie-Bin Zhao
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ming-Hua Li
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianxiong Zeng
- Songjiang Research Institute, Songjiang Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center for Non-Human Primates, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Information, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yang Y, Yuan Y, Xia B. RHBDD1 Promotes the Growth and Stemness Characteristics of Gastric Cancer Cells by Activating Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:1021-1028. [PMID: 37861049 DOI: 10.2174/011574888x259932231010112521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Gastric cancer (GC) is threatening public health, with at least one million new cases reported each year. Rhomboid domain-containing protein 1 (RHBDD1) has been identified to regulate the proliferation, migration, and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the role of RHBDD1 in GC has not been elucidated. OBJECTS This study aimed to investigate the role of RHBDD1 on the growth, metastasis, and stemness characteristics of GC. METHODS RHBDD1 expression was analyzed from the TCGA databank. qRT-PCR was conducted to evaluate the transcription level of RHBDD1. Western blots were used to evaluate the protein expression of RHBDD1, CD133, CD44, Nanog, β-catenin and c-myc. Colony formation assay and transwell assay were conducted to evaluate the growth and metastasis of NCI-N87 cells, respectively. Sphere-forming assay was performed to study the stemness characteristics. The nude mice xenotransplantation model and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to evaluate the growth of GC in vivo. Results: RHBDD1 expression is elevated in GC cells and clinical tissues. RHBDD1 expression is positively associated with cell proliferation and metastasis of GC cells. RHBDD1 knockdown suppresses the expression of CD133, CD44 and Nanog and attenuates sphere-forming ability. RHBDD1 activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via promoting the expression of β-catenin / c-myc and inducing β-catenin translocation into nuclear. RHBDD1 knockdown inhibits the growth of GC in nude mice xenotransplantation model. CONCLUSION RHBDD1 is highly expressed in GC, and its knockdown inhibits the growth, metastasis and stemness characteristics of GC cells through activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, suggesting that RHBDD1 has the potential to be a novel therapeutic target for GC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingxue Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Ultrasound, Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Boning Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Anorectal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical, Chongqing, 400010, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ajmeera D, Ajumeera R. Drug repurposing: A novel strategy to target cancer stem cells and therapeutic resistance. Genes Dis 2024; 11:148-175. [PMID: 37588226 PMCID: PMC10425757 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is an effortless and frequently used approach in cancer therapy. However, in most cases, it can only prolong life expectancy and does not guarantee a complete cure. Furthermore, chemotherapy is associated with severe adverse effects, one of the major complications of effective cancer therapy. In addition, newly published research outputs show that cancer stem cells are involved in cancer disease progression, drug resistance, metastasis, and recurrence and that they are functional in the trans-differentiation capacity of cancer stem cells to cancer cells in response to treatments. Novel strategies are therefore required for better management of cancer therapy. The prime approach would be to synthesize and develop novel drugs that need extensive resources, time, and endurance to be brought into therapeutic use. The subsequent approach would be to screen the anti-cancer activity of available non-cancerous drugs. This concept of repurposing non-cancer drugs as an alternative to current cancer therapy has become popular in recent years because using existing anticancer drugs has several adverse effects. Micronutrients have also been investigated for cancer therapy due to their significant anti-cancer effects with negligible or no side effects and availability in food sources. In this paper, we discuss an ideal hypothesis for screening available non-cancerous drugs with anticancer activity, with a focus on cancer stem cells and their clinical application for cancer treatment. Further, drug repurposing and the combination of micronutrients that can target both cancers and cancer stem cells may result in a better therapeutic approach leading to maximum tumor growth control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Divya Ajmeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Rajanna Ajumeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Fang KT, Hung H, Lau NYS, Chi JH, Wu DC, Cheng KH. Development of a Genetically Engineered Mouse Model Recapitulating LKB1 and PTEN Deficiency in Gastric Cancer Pathogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5893. [PMID: 38136437 PMCID: PMC10741874 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245893] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The LKB1 and PTEN genes are critical in gastric cancer (G.C.) development. LKB1, a robust tumor suppressor gene, encodes a serine/threonine kinase that directly triggers the activation of AMPK-an integral cellular metabolic kinase. The role of the LKB1 pathway extends to maintaining the stability of epithelial junctions by regulating E-cadherin expression. Conversely, PTEN, a frequently mutated tumor suppressor gene in various human cancers, emerges as a pivotal negative regulator of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. This study is set to leverage the H+/K+ ATPase Cre transgene strain to precisely target Cre recombinase expression at parietal cells within the stomach. This strategic maneuver seeks to selectively nullify the functions of both LKB1 and PTEN in a manner specific to the stomach, thereby instigating the development of G.C. in a fashion akin to human gastric adenocarcinoma. Moreover, this study endeavors to dissect the intricate ways in which these alterations contribute to the histopathologic advancement of gastric tumors, their potential for invasiveness and metastasis, their angiogenesis, and the evolving tumor stromal microenvironment. Our results show that conditional deletion of PTEN and LKB1 provides an ideal cancer microenvironment for G.C. tumorigenesis by promoting cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Te Fang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; (K.-T.F.); (H.H.); (N.Y.S.L.); (J.-H.C.)
| | - Hsin Hung
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; (K.-T.F.); (H.H.); (N.Y.S.L.); (J.-H.C.)
| | - Nga Yin Sadonna Lau
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; (K.-T.F.); (H.H.); (N.Y.S.L.); (J.-H.C.)
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
| | - Jou-Hsi Chi
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; (K.-T.F.); (H.H.); (N.Y.S.L.); (J.-H.C.)
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
| | - Deng-Chyang Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Kuang-Hung Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan; (K.-T.F.); (H.H.); (N.Y.S.L.); (J.-H.C.)
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 70456, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wang WD, Guo YY, Yang ZL, Su GL, Sun ZJ. Sniping Cancer Stem Cells with Nanomaterials. ACS NANO 2023; 17:23262-23298. [PMID: 38010076 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c07828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive tumor initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance due to their self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. Despite encouraging progress in cancer treatment, conventional approaches often fail to eliminate CSCs, necessitating the development of precise targeted strategies. Recent advances in materials science and nanotechnology have enabled promising CSC-targeted approaches, harnessing the power of tailoring nanomaterials in diverse therapeutic applications. This review provides an update on the current landscape of nanobased precision targeting approaches against CSCs. We elucidate the nuanced application of organic, inorganic, and bioinspired nanomaterials across a spectrum of therapeutic paradigms, encompassing targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and multimodal synergistic therapies. By examining the accomplishments and challenges in this potential field, we aim to inform future efforts to advance nanomaterial-based therapies toward more effective "sniping" of CSCs and tumor clearance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Da Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yan-Yu Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhong-Lu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Guang-Liang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| |
Collapse
|