Essential role of cooperative NF-κB and Stat3 recruitment to ICAM-1 intronic consensus elements in the regulation of radiation-induced invasion and migration in glioma. Oncogene. 2013;32:5144-5155. [PMID: 23178493 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2012.546]

Cancer stem cell biomarkers and related signalling pathways

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a distinct subset of neoplastic cells characterised by their heightened capacity for tumorigenesis. These cells are implicated in the facilitation of cancer metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to conventional therapeutic interventions. Extensive scientific research has been devoted to the identification of biomarkers and the elucidation of molecular mechanisms in order to improve targeted therapeutic approaches. Accurate identification of cancer stem cells based on biomarkers can provide a theoretical basis for drug combinations of malignant tumours. Targeted biomarker-based therapies also offer a silver lining for patients with advanced malignancies. This review aims comprehensively to consolidate the latest findings on CSCs biomarkers, targeted agents as well as biomarkers associated signalling pathways in well-established cancer types, thereby contributing to improved prognostic outcomes.

Mineralocorticoid Receptor Blocker Prevents Mineralocorticoid Receptor-Mediated Inflammation by Modulating Transcriptional Activity of Mineralocorticoid Receptor-p65-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Complex

BACKGROUND

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) induces cardiac inflammation cooperatively with nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3); MR blockers exert anti-inflammatory effects. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of esaxerenone, a novel MR blocker, in experimental myocardial infarction (MI) and its underlying mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male C57BL/6J mice subjected to ligation of the left anterior descending artery were randomly assigned to either the vehicle or esaxerenone group. Esaxerenone was provided with a regular chow diet. The mice were euthanized at either 4 or 15 days after MI. Cardiac function, fibrosis, and inflammation were evaluated. Esaxerenone significantly improved cardiac function and attenuated cardiac fibrosis at 15 days after MI independently of its antihypertensive effect. Inflammatory cell infiltration, inflammatory-related gene expression, and elevated serum interleukin-6 levels at 4 days after MI were significantly attenuated by esaxerenone. In vitro experiments using mouse macrophage-like cell line RAW264.7 cells demonstrated that esaxerenone- and spironolactone-attenuated lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin-6 expression without altering the posttranslational modification and nuclear translocation of p65 and STAT3. Immunoprecipitation assays revealed that MR interacted with both p65 and STAT3 and enhanced the p65-STAT3 interaction, leading to a subsequent increase in interleukin-6 promoter activity, which was reversed by esaxerenone.

CONCLUSIONS

Esaxerenone ameliorated postinfarct remodeling in experimental MI through its anti-inflammatory properties exerted by modulating the transcriptional activity of the MR-p65-STAT3 complex. These results suggest that the MR-p65-STAT3 complex can be a novel therapeutic target for treating MI.

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 suppresses TMZ chemosensitivity in acquired TMZ-resistant gliomas by increasing assembly of ABCB1 on the membrane

AIMS

Despite aggressive treatment, the recurrence of glioma is an inevitable occurrence, leading to unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. A plausible explanation for this phenomenon is the phenotypic alterations that glioma cells undergo aggressive therapies, such as TMZ-therapy. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these changes are not well understood.

METHODS

The TMZ chemotherapy resistance model was employed to assess the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) in both in vitro and in vivo settings. The potential role of ICAM1 in regulating TMZ chemotherapy resistance was investigated through knockout and overexpression techniques. Furthermore, the mechanism underlying ICAM1-mediated TMZ chemotherapy resistance was examined using diverse molecular biological methods, and the lipid raft protein was subsequently isolated to investigate the cellular subcomponents where ICAM1 operates.

RESULTS

Acquired TMZ resistant (TMZ-R) glioma models heightened production of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM1) in TMZ-R glioma cells. Additionally, we observed a significant suppression of TMZ-R glioma proliferation upon inhibition of ICAM1, which was attributed to the enhanced intracellular accumulation of TMZ. Our findings provide evidence supporting the role of ICAM1, a proinflammatory marker, in promoting the expression of ABCB1 on the cell membrane of TMZ-resistant cells. We have elucidated the mechanistic pathway by which ICAM1 modulates phosphorylated moesin, leading to an increase in ABCB1 expression on the membrane. Furthermore, our research has revealed that the regulation of moesin by ICAM1 was instrumental in facilitating the assembly of ABCB1 exclusively on the lipid raft of the membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ICAM1 is an important mediator in TMZ-resistant gliomas and targeting ICAM1 may provide a new strategy for enhancing the efficacy of TMZ therapy against glioma.

Divergent Processing of Cell Stress Signals as the Basis of Cancer Progression: Licensing NFκB on Chromatin

Inflammation is activated by diverse triggers that induce the expression of cytokines and adhesion molecules, which permit a succession of molecules and cells to deliver stimuli and functions that help the immune system clear the primary cause of tissue damage, whether this is an infection, a tumor, or a trauma. During inflammation, short-term changes in the expression and secretion of strong mediators of inflammation occur, while long-term changes occur to specific groups of cells. Long-term changes include cellular transdifferentiation for some types of cells that need to regenerate damaged tissue, as well as death for specific immune cells that can be detrimental to tissue integrity if they remain active beyond the boundaries of essential function. The transcriptional regulator NFκB enables some of the fundamental gene expression changes during inflammation, as well as during tissue development. During recurrence of malignant disease, cell stress-induced alterations enable the growth of cancer cell clones that are substantially resistant to therapeutic intervention and to the immune system. A number of those alterations occur due to significant defects in feedback signal cascades that control the activity of NFκB. Specifically, cell stress contributes to feedback defects as it overrides modules that otherwise control inflammation to protect host tissue. NFκB is involved in both the suppression and promotion of cancer, and the key distinctive feature that determines its net effect remains unclear. This paper aims to provide a clear answer to at least one aspect of this question, namely the mechanism that enables a divergent response of cancer cells to critical inflammatory stimuli and to cell stress in general.

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor progression and resistance to everolimus: the crucial role of NF-kB and STAT3 interplay

PURPOSE

The finding of mTOR overactivation in patients affected by pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (Pa-NETs) led to their treatment with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus. Unfortunately, the efficacy of everolimus is restricted by the occurrence of resistance. The mechanisms leading to Pa-NETs' progression and resistance are not well understood. Notably, chronic inflammation is implicated in NET development. NF-kB is involved in inflammation and drug resistance mechanisms through the activation of several mediators, including STAT3. In this respect, NF-κB and STAT3 interaction is implicated in the crosstalk between inflammatory and tumor cells.

METHODS

We investigated the expression of NF-kB in different Pa-NETs by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Then, we studied the role of NF-κB and STAT3 interplay in QGP-1 cells. Subsequently, we assessed the impact of NF-κB and STAT3 inhibitors in QGP-1 cell proliferation and spheroids growth. Finally, we evaluated the implication of the NF-kB pathway in everolimus-resistant Pa-NET cells.

RESULTS

We found that the increased NF-kB expression correlates  with a higher grade in Pa-NETs. The activation of the STAT3 pathway induced by TNFα is mediated by NF-kB p65. NF-kB p65 and STAT3 inhibitors decrease QGP-1 viability, spheroids growth, and Pa-NETs cell proliferation. These effects are maintained in everolimus-resistant QGP-1R cells. Interestingly, we found that NF-kB, STAT3, IL-8, and SOCS3 are overexpressed in QGP-1R compared to QGP-1.

CONCLUSION

Since the NF-kB pathway is implicated in Pa-NETs' progression and resistance to everolimus, these data could explain the potential use of NF-kB as a novel therapeutic target in Pa-NET patients.

Stat3 activation-triggered transcriptional networks govern the early stage of HBV-induced hepatic inflammation

The chronic carrier state of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) often leads to the development of liver inflammation as carriers age. However, the exact mechanisms that trigger this hepatic inflammation remain poorly defined. We analyzed the sequential processes during the onset of liver inflammation based on time-course transcriptome and transcriptional regulatory networks in an HBV transgenic (HBV-Tg) mice model and chronic HBV-infected (CHB) patients (data from GSE83148). The key transcriptional factor (TF) responsible for hepatic inflammation occurrence was identified and then validated both in HBV-Tg mice and liver specimens from young CHB patients. By time-course analysis, an early stage of hepatic inflammation was demonstrated in 3-month-old HBV-Tg mice: a marked upregulation of genes related to inflammation (Saa1/2, S100a8/9/11, or Il1β), innate immunity (Tlr2, Tlr7, or Tlr8), and cells chemotaxis (Ccr2, Cxcl1, Cxcl13, or Cxcl14). Within CHB samples, a unique early stage of inflammation activation was discriminated from immune tolerance and immune activation groups based on distinct gene expression patterns. Enhanced activation of TF Stat3 was strongly associated with increased inflammatory gene expression in this early stage of inflammation. Expression of phosphorylated Stat3 was higher in liver specimens from young CHB patients with relatively higher alanine aminotransferase levels. Specific inhibition of Stat3 activation significantly attenuated the degree of liver inflammation, the expression of inflammation-related genes, and the inflammatory monocytes and macrophages in 3-month-old HBV-Tg mice. Stat3 activation is essential for hepatic inflammation occurrence and is a novel indicator of early-stage immune activation in chronic HBV carriers.

IMPORTANCE

Until now, it remains a mystery that chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients in the "immune tolerance phase" will transition to the "immune activation phase" as they age. In this study, we reveal that Stat3 activation-triggered hepatic transcriptional alterations are distinctive characteristics of the early stage of immune/inflammation activation in chronic HBV infection. For the first time, we discover a mechanism that might trigger the transition from immune tolerance to immune activation in chronic HBV carriers.

Biochanin A inhibits endothelial dysfunction induced by IL‑6‑stimulated endothelial microparticles in Perthes disease via the NFκB pathway

Endothelial dysfunction caused by the stimulation of endothelial microparticles (EMPs) by the inflammatory factor IL-6 is one of the pathogenic pathways associated with Perthes disease. The natural active product biochanin A (BCA) has an anti-inflammatory effect; however, whether it can alleviate endothelial dysfunction in Perthes disease is not known. The present in vitro experiments on human umbilical vein endothelial cells showed that 0-100 pg/ml IL-6-EMPs could induce endothelial dysfunction in a concentration-dependent manner, and the results of the Cell Counting Kit 8 assay revealed that, at concentrations of <20 µM, BCA had no cytotoxic effect. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR demonstrated that BCA reduced the expression levels of the endothelial dysfunction indexes E-selectin and intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in a concentration-dependent manner. Immunofluorescence and western blotting illustrated that BCA increased the expression levels of zonula occludens-1 and decreased those of ICAM-1. Mechanistic studies showed that BCA inhibited activation of the NFκB pathway. In vivo experiments demonstrated that IL-6 was significantly increased in the rat model of ischemic necrosis of the femoral head, whereas BCA inhibited IL-6 production. Therefore, in Perthes disease, BCA may inhibit the NFκB pathway to suppress IL-6-EMP-induced endothelial dysfunction, and could thus be regarded as a potential treatment for Perthes disease.

Targeting JMJD1C to selectively disrupt tumor Treg cell fitness enhances antitumor immunity

Regulatory T (Treg) cells are critical for immune tolerance but also form a barrier to antitumor immunity. As therapeutic strategies involving Treg cell depletion are limited by concurrent autoimmune disorders, identification of intratumoral Treg cell-specific regulatory mechanisms is needed for selective targeting. Epigenetic modulators can be targeted with small compounds, but intratumoral Treg cell-specific epigenetic regulators have been unexplored. Here, we show that JMJD1C, a histone demethylase upregulated by cytokines in the tumor microenvironment, is essential for tumor Treg cell fitness but dispensable for systemic immune homeostasis. JMJD1C deletion enhanced AKT signals in a manner dependent on histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) demethylase and STAT3 signals independently of H3K9me2 demethylase, leading to robust interferon-γ production and tumor Treg cell fragility. We have also developed an oral JMJD1C inhibitor that suppresses tumor growth by targeting intratumoral Treg cells. Overall, this study identifies JMJD1C as an epigenetic hub that can integrate signals to establish tumor Treg cell fitness, and we present a specific JMJD1C inhibitor that can target tumor Treg cells without affecting systemic immune homeostasis.

Metabolic reprogramming of immune cells by mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 to prevent post-vascular injury neointimal hyperplasia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

New treatments are needed to prevent neointimal hyperplasia that contributes to post-angioplasty and stent restenosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We investigated whether modulating mitochondrial function using mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1) could reduce post-vascular injury neointimal hyperplasia by metabolic reprogramming of macrophages from a pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotype.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In vivo Mdivi-1 treatment of Apoe-/- mice fed a high-fat diet and subjected to carotid-wire injury decreased neointimal hyperplasia by 68%, reduced numbers of plaque vascular smooth muscle cells and pro-inflammatory M1-like macrophages, and decreased plaque inflammation, endothelial activation, and apoptosis, when compared to control. Mdivi-1 treatment of human THP-1 macrophages shifted polarization from a pro-inflammatory M1-like to an anti-inflammatory M2-like phenotype, reduced monocyte chemotaxis and migration to CCL2 and macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and decreased secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators. Finally, treatment of pro-inflammatory M1-type-macrophages with Mdivi-1 metabolically reprogrammed them to an anti-inflammatory M2-like phenotype by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation and attenuating the increase in succinate levels and correcting the decreased levels of arginine and citrulline.

CONCLUSIONS

We report that treatment with Mdivi-1 inhibits post-vascular injury neointimal hyperplasia by metabolic reprogramming macrophages towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype thereby highlighting the therapeutic potential of Mdivi-1 for preventing neointimal hyperplasia and restenosis following angioplasty and stenting in CAD and PAD patients.

Oligonucleotide-Based Therapeutics for STAT3 Targeting in Cancer-Drug Carriers Matter

High expression and phosphorylation of signal transducer and transcription activator 3 (STAT3) are correlated with progression and poor prognosis in various types of cancer. The constitutive activation of STAT3 in cancer affects processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. The importance of STAT3 in cancer makes it a potential therapeutic target. Various methods of directly and indirectly blocking STAT3 activity at different steps of the STAT3 pathway have been investigated. However, the outcome has been limited, mainly by the number of upstream proteins that can reactivate STAT3 or the relatively low specificity of the inhibitors. A new branch of molecules with significant therapeutic potential has emerged thanks to recent developments in the regulatory function of non-coding nucleic acids. Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics can silence target transcripts or edit genes, leading to the modification of gene expression profiles, causing cell death or restoring cell function. Moreover, they can reach untreatable targets, such as transcription factors. This review briefly describes oligonucleotide-based therapeutics that found application to target STAT3 activity in cancer. Additionally, this review comprehensively summarizes how the inhibition of STAT3 activity by nucleic acid-based therapeutics such as siRNA, shRNA, ASO, and ODN-decoy affected the therapy of different types of cancer in preclinical and clinical studies. Moreover, due to some limitations of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics, the importance of carriers that can deliver nucleic acid molecules to affect the STAT3 in cancer cells and cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME) was pointed out. Combining a high specificity of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics toward their targets and functionalized nanoparticles toward cell type can generate very efficient formulations.

Hypoxia-sensitive cells trigger NK cell activation via the KLF4-ASH1L-ICAM-1 axis, contributing to impairment in the rat epididymis

Male infertility is a global health problem especially prevalent in high-altitude regions. The epididymis is essential for sperm maturation, but the influence of environmental cues on its reshaping remains poorly understood. Here, we use single-cell transcriptomics to track the cellular profiles of epidydimal cells in rats raised under normoxia or extended hypoxia. The results show that hypoxia impairs epididymal function, evident in reduced epithelial cells, compromised blood-epididymis barrier integrity, and increased natural killer cells. Through combined analysis of gene-regulatory networks and cell-cell interaction maps, we identify epididymal hypoxia-sensitive cells that communicate with natural killer (NK) cells via increased intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) driven by KLF4 recruitment of the histone methyltransferase ASL1L to the Icam1 promoter. Taken together, our study offers a detailed blueprint of epididymal changes during hypoxia and defines a KLF4-ALSH1L-ICAM-1 axis contributing to NK cell activation, yielding a potential treatment targeting hypoxia-induced infertility.

A novel STAT3/ NFκB p50 axis regulates stromal-KDM2A to promote M2 macrophage-mediated chemoresistance in breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Lysine Demethylase 2A (KDM2A) plays a crucial role in cancer cell growth, differentiation, metastasis, and the maintenance of cancer stemness. Our previous study found that cancer-secreted IL-6 can upregulate the expression of KDM2A to promote further the transition of cells into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). However, the molecular mechanism by which breast cancer-secreted IL-6 regulates the expression of KDM2A remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism of IL-6 in regulating KDM2A expression in CAFs and KDM2A-mediated paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer.

METHODS

The ectopic vector expression and biochemical inhibitor were used to analyze the KDM2A expression regulated by HS-578 T conditioned medium or IL-6 in mammary fibroblasts. Immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to examine the interaction between STAT3 and NFκB p50. M2 macrophage polarization was assessed by analyzing M2 macrophage-specific markers using flow cytometry and RT-PCR. ESTIMATE algorithm was used to analyze the tumor microenvironment-dominant breast cancer samples from the TCGA database. The correlation between stromal KDM2A and CD163 + M2 macrophages was analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Cell viability was determined using trypan blue exclusion assay.

RESULTS

IL-6 regulates gene expression via activation and dimerization of STAT3 or collaboration of STAT3 and NFκB. However, STAT3, a downstream transcription factor of the IL-6 signaling pathway, was directly complexed with NFκB p50, not NFκB p65, to upregulate the expression of KDM2A in CAFs. Enrichment analysis of immune cells/stromal cells using TCGA-breast cancer RNA-seq data unveiled a positive correlation between stromal KDM2A and the abundance of M2 macrophages. CXCR2-associated chemokines secreted by KDM2A-expressing CAFs stimulated M2 macrophage polarization, which in turn secreted CCL2 to increase paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer cells by activating CCR2 signaling.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the non-canonical molecular mechanism of IL-6 secreted by breast cancer upregulated KDM2A expression in CAFs via a novel STAT3/NFκB p50 axis, which STAT3 complexed with NFκB p50 in NFκB p50 binding motif of KDM2A promoter. KDM2A-expressing CAFs dominantly secreted the CXCR2-associated chemokines to promote M2 macrophage polarization and enhance paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting the CXCR2 or CCR2 pathway as a novel strategy for paclitaxel-resistant breast cancer.

Influence of GO-Antisense miRNA-21 on the Expression of Selected Cytokines at Glioblastoma Cell Lines

Introduction

Graphene oxide (GO) is a single layer of carbon atoms with unique properties, which are beneficial due to its surface functionalisation by miRNA. miRNAs are a non-coding small form of RNA that suppress the expression of protein-coding genes by translational repression or degradation of messenger RNA. Antisense miRNA-21 is very promising for future investigation in cancer therapy. This study aimed to detect cytokine expression levels after the administration of GO-antisense miRNA-21 into U87, U118, U251 and T98 glioma cell lines.

Methods

U87, U118, U251 and T98 glioma cell line were investigated in term of viability, human cytokine expression level at protein and genes after treatment with GO, GO-antisense miRNA-21 and antisense miRNA-21. The delivery of antisense miRNA-21 into the glioma cell at in vitro investigation were conducted by GO based transfection and electroporation.

Results

The results of the protein microarray and gene expression profile showed that complexes of GO-antisense miRNA-21 modified the metallopeptidase inhibitor 2 (TIMP-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) expression level compared to transfection by electroporation of antisense miRNA-21 at investigated glioblastoma cell lines. The TIMP-2 protein and gene expression level was upregulated after antisense miRNA-21 delivery by GO complex into U87, U251 and T98 glioblastoma cell lines comparing to the non-treated control group. The downregulation at protein expression level of ICAM - 1 was observed at U87, U118, U251 and T98 glioma cell lines. Moreover, the IL-8 expression level at mRNA for genes and protein was decreased significantly after delivery the antisense-miRNA-21 by GO compared to electroporation as a transfection method.

Discussion

This work demonstrated that the graphene oxide complexes with antisense miRNA-21 can effectively modulate the cytokine mRNA and protein expression level at U87, U118, U251 and T98 glioma cell lines.

TMEM232 promotes the inflammatory response in atopic dermatitis via the nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signalling pathways

BACKGROUND

Our group previously found that the transmembrane protein 232 (TMEM232) gene was associated with atopic dermatitis (AD) by genome-wide association study and fine mapping study. However, its function is unclear so far.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the roles and mechanisms of TMEM232 in AD.

METHODS

The expression of TMEM232 was investigated in skin lesions of patients with AD, the MC903-induced AD mouse model, human primary keratinocytes and immortalized human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) cells stimulated with different inflammatory factors. The role of TMEM232 in AD was analysed in HaCaT cells and Tmem232 knockout (Tmem232-/-) mice. Tmem232-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to evaluate its therapeutic potential in the AD mouse model.

RESULTS

The expression of TMEM232 was significantly increased in skin lesions of patients with AD, the MC903-induced AD mouse model and human primary keratinocytes and HaCaT cells stimulated with different inflammatory factors compared with controls. In the presence of MC903, Tmem232-/- mice exhibited significantly reduced dermatitis severity, mast-cell infiltration in the back, and expression of T-helper (Th)1 and Th2-related inflammatory factors in skin tissue compared with wild-type mice. In vitro and in vivo experiments further showed that upregulation of TMEM232 in AD exacerbated the inflammation response through activating the pathway of nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, and was regulated by the interleukin-4/STAT6 axis, which formed a self-amplifying loop. Finally, topical application of Tmem232 siRNA markedly ameliorated AD-like lesions in the AD model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to outline the function of TMEM232. It is involved in regulating inflammation in AD and may be a potential target for AD treatment.

Insight into the transcription factors regulating Ischemic Stroke and Glioma in Response to Shared Stimuli

Cerebral ischemic stroke and glioma are the two leading causes of patient mortality globally. Despite physiological variations, 1 in 10 people who have an ischemic stroke go on to develop brain cancer, most notably gliomas. In addition, glioma treatments have also been shown to increase the risk of ischemic strokes. Stroke occurs more frequently in cancer patients than in the general population, according to traditional literature. Unbelievably, these events share multiple pathways, but the precise mechanism underlying their co-occurrence remains unknown. Transcription factors (TFs), the main components of gene expression programmes, finally determine the fate of cells and homeostasis. Both ischemic stroke and glioma exhibit aberrant expression of a large number of TFs, which are strongly linked to the pathophysiology and progression of both diseases. The precise genomic binding locations of TFs and how TF binding ultimately relates to transcriptional regulation remain elusive despite a strong interest in understanding how TFs regulate gene expression in both stroke and glioma. As a result, the importance of continuing efforts to understand TF-mediated gene regulation is highlighted in this review, along with some of the primary shared events in stroke and glioma.

Action Mechanism of Metformin and Its Application in Hematological Malignancy Treatments: A Review

Hematologic malignancies (HMs) mainly include acute and chronic leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other heterogeneous tumors that seriously threaten human life and health. The common effective treatments are radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), which have limited options and are prone to tumor recurrence and (or) drug resistance. Metformin is the first-line drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Recently, studies identified the potential anti-cancer ability of metformin in both T2DM patients and patients that are non-diabetic. The latest epidemiological and preclinical studies suggested a potential benefit of metformin in the prevention and treatment of patients with HM. The mechanism may involve the activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway by metformin as well as other AMPK-independent pathways to exert anti-cancer properties. In addition, combining current conventional anti-cancer drugs with metformin may improve the efficacy and reduce adverse drug reactions. Therefore, metformin can also be used as an adjuvant therapeutic agent for HM. This paper highlights the anti-hyperglycemic effects and potential anti-cancer effects of metformin, and also compiles the in vitro and clinical trials of metformin as an anti-cancer and chemosensitizing agent for the treatment of HM. The need for future research on the use of metformin in the treatment of HM is indicated.

Roles of STAT3 in the pathogenesis and treatment of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant of astrocytomas mainly involving the cerebral hemispheres and the cerebral cortex. It is one of the fatal and refractory solid tumors, with a 5-year survival rate of merely 5% among the adults. IL6/JAK/STAT3 is an important signaling pathway involved in the pathogenesis and progression of GBM. The expression of STAT3 in GBM tissues is substantially higher than that of normal brain cells. The abnormal activation of STAT3 renders the tumor microenvironment of GBM immunosuppression. Besides, blocking the STAT3 pathway can effectively inhibit the growth and metastasis of GBM. On this basis, inhibition of STAT3 may be a new therapeutic approach for GBM, and the combination of STAT3 targeted therapy and conventional therapies may improve the current status of GBM treatment. This review summarized the roles of STAT3 in the pathogenesis of GBM and the feasibility of STAT3 for GBM target therapy.

Radiation enhances the efficacy of EGFR-targeted CAR-T cells against triple-negative breast cancer by activating NF-κB/Icam1 signaling

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype, with limited treatment options. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is reported to be expressed in 50%-75% of TNBC patients, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Here we show that EGFR-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy combined with radiotherapy provides enhanced antitumor efficacy in immunocompetent and immunodeficient orthotopic TNBC mice. Intriguingly, this combination therapy resulted in a substantial increase in the number of tumor-infiltrating CAR-T cells. The efficacy of this combination was independent of tumor radiosensitivity and lymphodepleting preconditioning. Cytokine profiling showed that this combination did not increase the risk of cytokine release syndrome (CRS). RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis revealed that EGFR-targeting CAR-T therapy combined with radiotherapy increased the infiltration of CD8+ T and natural killer (NK) cells into tumors. Mechanistically, radiation significantly increased Icam1 expression on TNBC cells via activating nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling, thereby promoting CAR-T cell infiltration and killing. These results suggest that CAR-T therapy combined with radiotherapy may be a promising strategy for TNBC treatment.

Constant Activation of STAT3 Contributes to the Development of Adenomyosis in Females

Adenomyosis is a benign uterine disease that causes dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility; however, its pathophysiology remains unclear. Since signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is crucial for endometrial regeneration, we hypothesized that STAT3 participates in adenomyosis pathophysiology. To investigate the influence of STAT3 on adenomyosis development, this study was performed using a novel mouse model of adenomyosis and human specimens of eutopic endometria and adenomyosis lesions. We established a novel mouse model of adenomyosis by puncturing entire mouse uterine layers with a thin needle. Mouse eutopic and ectopic endometria showed a positive immunoreactivity for phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3), the active form of STAT3. Decreased numbers of adenomyotic lesions and reduced expression of Cxcl1, Icam1, and Spp1, which are associated with immune cell chemotaxis and tissue regeneration, were observed in uterine Stat3-deficient mice compared with the controls. In humans, pSTAT3 was intensely expressed at both the eutopic endometrium and the adenomyotic lesions regardless of the menstrual cycle phases. Conversely, it was limitedly expressed in the eutopic endometrium during the menstrual and proliferative phases in women without adenomyosis. Our findings indicate that continuous STAT3 activation promotes adenomyosis development. STAT3 inhibition can be a promising treatment strategy in patients with adenomyosis.

ICAM-1 promotes cancer progression by regulating SRC activity as an adapter protein in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a 5-year survival rate of <10%, as it can metastasize to the lungs and liver. Anticancer drugs and targeted therapies used to treat metastatic colorectal cancer have insufficient therapeutic efficacy and are associated with complications. Therefore, research to develop new targeted therapeutics is necessary. Here, we present a novel discovery that intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a potential therapeutic target to enhance therapeutic effectiveness for CRC. ICAM-1 is an important regulator of cell-cell interactions and recent studies have shown that it promotes malignancy in several carcinomas. However, little is known about its effect on CRC. Therefore, we conducted a study to define the mechanism by which ICAM-1 acts. ICAM-1 is phosphorylated by tyrosine-protein kinase Met (c-MET), and phosphorylated ICAM-1 can interact with SRC to increase SRC activity. Consequently, ICAM-1 may further accelerate SRC signaling, promoting the malignant potential of cancer. In addition, treatment with antibodies targeting ICAM-1 showed excellent therapeutic effects in reducing metastasis and angiogenesis. These findings suggest for the first time that ICAM-1 is an important adapter protein capable of mediating the c-MET-SRC signaling axis. Therefore, ICAM-1 can be used as a novel therapeutic target and a metastatic marker for CRC.

Transcription Factors with Targeting Potential in Gliomas

Gliomas portray a large and heterogeneous group of CNS tumors, encompassing a wide range of low- to high-grade tumors, as defined by histological and molecular characteristics. The identification of signature mutations and other molecular abnormalities has largely impacted tumor classification, diagnosis, and therapy. Transcription factors (TFs) are master regulators of gene expression programs, which ultimately shape cell fate and homeostasis. A variety of TFs have been detected to be aberrantly expressed in brain tumors, being highly implicated in critical pathological aspects and progression of gliomas. Herein, we describe a selection of oncogenic (GLI-1/2/3, E2F1–8, STAT3, and HIF-1/2) and tumor suppressor (NFI-A/B, TBXT, MYT1, and MYT1L) TFs that are deregulated in gliomas and are subsequently associated with tumor development, progression, and migratory potential. We further discuss the current targeting options against these TFs, including chemical (Bortezomib) and natural (Plumbagin) compounds, small molecules, and inhibitors, and address their potential implications in glioma therapy.

The Epigenetics of Psychosis: A Structured Review with Representative Loci

The evidence for an environmental component in chronic psychotic disorders is strong and research on the epigenetic manifestations of these environmental impacts has commenced in earnest. In reviewing this research, the focus is on three genes as models for differential methylation, MCHR1, AKT1 and TDO2, each of which have been investigated for genetic association with psychotic disorders. Environmental factors associated with psychotic disorders, and which interact with these model genes, are explored in depth. The location of transcription factor motifs relative to key methylation sites is evaluated for predicted gene expression results, and for other sites, evidence is presented for methylation directing alternative splicing. Experimental results from key studies show differential methylation: for MCHR1, in psychosis cases versus controls; for AKT1, as a pre-existing methylation pattern influencing brain activation following acute administration of a psychosis-eliciting environmental stimulus; and for TDO2, in a pattern associated with a developmental factor of risk for psychosis, in all cases the predicted expression impact being highly dependent on location. Methylation induced by smoking, a confounding variable, exhibits an intriguing pattern for all three genes. Finally, how differential methylation meshes with Darwinian principles is examined, in particular as it relates to the "flexible stem" theory of evolution.

miR-671-5p Inhibition by MSI1 Promotes Glioblastoma Tumorigenesis via Radioresistance, Tumor Motility and Cancer Stem-like Cell Properties

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) could be potential biomarkers for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) prognosis and response to therapeutic agents. We previously demonstrated that the cancer stem cell marker Musashi-1 (MSI1) is an RNA binding protein that promotes radioresistance by increasing downstream RNA stability. To identify that MSI1 interacts with miRNAs and attenuates their function, we also get candidate miRNAs from the mRNA seq by predicting with TargetScan software. miR-671-5p in GBM cells interacts with MSI1 by intersecting the precipitated miRNAs with the predicted miRNAs. Notably, overexpression of MSI1 reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-671-5p. The phenotype of miR-671-5p in GBM cells could affect radiosensitivity by modulating the posttranscriptional activity of STAT3. In addition, miR-671-5p could attenuate tumor migration and cancer stem cell (CSC) characteristics by repressing the posttranscriptional activity of TRAF2. MSI1 may regulate GBM radioresistance, CSCs and tumor motility through miR-671-5p inhibition to increasing STAT3 and TRAF2 presentation. In vivo, the GBM tumor size was inversely correlated with miR-671-5p expression, but tumorigenesis was promoted by STAT3 and TRAF2 activation in the miR-671-5p-positive GBM population. miR-671-5p could be activated as a novel therapeutic target for GBM and has potential application as a predictive biomarker of glioblastoma prognosis.

Anticancer activity of oleanolic acid and its derivatives: Recent advances in evidence, target profiling and mechanisms of action

Oleanolic acid (OA, 3 β - hydroxyoleanolic acid-12-en-28-oic acid) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid present in many plants. As a new framework for development of semi synthetic triterpenoids, OA is of great significance in the discovery of anticancer drugs. Some of these derivatives, such as CDDO (2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1, 9 (11)-dien-28-oic acid) have been verified in clinical trials, while other derivatives studied previously, such as SZC014, SZC015 and SZC017 (OA derivatives respectively), are also candidate drugs for cancer treatment. This paper reviews the preclinical studies, literature evidence, target analysis and anticancer mechanism of OA and its derivatives. The mechanism of action of its derivatives mainly includes anti-cancer cell proliferation, inducing tumor cell apoptosis, inducing autophagy, regulating cell cycle regulatory proteins, inhibiting vascular endothelial growth, anti angiogenesis, inhibiting tumor cell migration and invasion. In recent years, the molecular mechanism of OA and its derivatives has been elucidated. These effects seem to be mediated by the alterations in a variety of signaling pathways induced by OA and its derivatives. In conclusion, OA and its derivatives are considered as important candidate drugs for the treatment of cancer, indicating that OA and its derivatives have the potential to be used as anticancer drugs in practice.

Out of Control: The Role of the Ubiquitin Proteasome System in Skeletal Muscle during Inflammation

The majority of critically ill intensive care unit (ICU) patients with severe sepsis develop ICU-acquired weakness (ICUAW) characterized by loss of muscle mass, reduction in myofiber size and decreased muscle strength leading to persisting physical impairment. This phenotype results from a dysregulated protein homeostasis with increased protein degradation and decreased protein synthesis, eventually causing a decrease in muscle structural proteins. The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is the predominant protein-degrading system in muscle that is activated during diverse muscle atrophy conditions, e.g., inflammation. The specificity of UPS-mediated protein degradation is assured by E3 ubiquitin ligases, such as atrogin-1 and MuRF1, which target structural and contractile proteins, proteins involved in energy metabolism and transcription factors for UPS-dependent degradation. Although the regulation of activity and function of E3 ubiquitin ligases in inflammation-induced muscle atrophy is well perceived, the contribution of the proteasome to muscle atrophy during inflammation is still elusive. During inflammation, a shift from standard- to immunoproteasome was described; however, to which extent this contributes to muscle wasting and whether this changes targeting of specific muscular proteins is not well described. This review summarizes the function of the main proinflammatory cytokines and acute phase response proteins and their signaling pathways in inflammation-induced muscle atrophy with a focus on UPS-mediated protein degradation in muscle during sepsis. The regulation and target-specificity of the main E3 ubiquitin ligases in muscle atrophy and their mode of action on myofibrillar proteins will be reported. The function of the standard- and immunoproteasome in inflammation-induced muscle atrophy will be described and the effects of proteasome-inhibitors as treatment strategies will be discussed.

Nonredundant, isoform-specific roles of HDAC1 in glioma stem cells

Glioblastoma (GBM) is characterized by an aberrant yet druggable epigenetic landscape. One major family of epigenetic regulators, the histone deacetylases (HDACs), are considered promising therapeutic targets for GBM due to their repressive influences on transcription. Although HDACs share redundant functions and common substrates, the unique isoform-specific roles of different HDACs in GBM remain unclear. In neural stem cells, HDAC2 is the indispensable deacetylase to ensure normal brain development and survival in the absence of HDAC1. Surprisingly, we find that HDAC1 is the essential class I deacetylase in glioma stem cells, and its loss is not compensated for by HDAC2. Using cell-based and biochemical assays, transcriptomic analyses, and patient-derived xenograft models, we find that knockdown of HDAC1 alone has profound effects on the glioma stem cell phenotype in a p53-dependent manner. We demonstrate marked suppression in tumor growth upon targeting of HDAC1 and identify compensatory pathways that provide insights into combination therapies for GBM. Our study highlights the importance of HDAC1 in GBM and the need to develop isoform-specific drugs.

AIM2 deletion enhances blood-brain barrier integrity in experimental ischemic stroke

Aims

Ischemic stroke is a life‐threatening disease with limited therapeutic strategies. Blood‐brain barrier (BBB) disruption is a critical pathological process that contributes to poor outcomes in ischemic stroke. We previously showed that the microglial inhibition of the inflammasome sensor absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) suppressed the inflammatory response and protected against ischemic stroke. However, whether AIM2 is involved in BBB disruption during cerebral ischemia is unknown.

Methods

Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) were used to mimic cerebral ischemia in mice and brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs), respectively. The infarct volume, neurological deficits, and BBB permeability were measured in mice after MCAO. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and neutrophil adhesion to the HBMEC monolayer were assessed after OGD/R treatment. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses were conducted to evaluate the expression of related proteins.

Results

AIM2 was shown to be expressed in brain endothelial cells and upregulated after ischemic stroke in the mouse brain. AIM2 deletion reduced the infarct volume, improved neurological and motor functions, and decreased BBB disruption. In vitro, OGD/R significantly increased the protein levels of AIM2 and ICAM‐1 and decreased those of the tight junction (TJ) proteins ZO‐1 and occludin. AIM2 knockdown effectively protected BBB integrity by promoting the expression of TJ proteins and decreasing ICAM‐1 expression and neutrophil adhesion. Mechanistically, AIM2 knockdown reversed the OGD/R‐induced increases in ICAM‐1 expression and STAT3 phosphorylation in brain endothelial cells. Furthermore, treatment with the p‐STAT3 inhibitor AG490 mitigated the effect of AIM2 on BBB breakdown.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that inhibiting AIM2 preserved the BBB integrity after ischemic stroke, at least partially by modulating STAT3 activation and that AIM2 may be a promising therapeutic target for cerebral ischemic stroke.

Predictive Value of IL-6 Combined with NLR in Inflammation and Cancer

The strong association between inflammation and cancer is reflected by the high interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in the tumor microenvironment, where it promotes carcinogenesis by regulating all hallmarks of cancer and multiple signaling pathways. In this study, we investigated the prognostic value of IL-6 and other clinical indexes in inflammatory and cancer patients. All the patients were divided into the inflammation group (n = 400) and the cancer group (n = 672) composed of hematological malignancies group (n = 338) and solid tumors group (n = 334). Continuous variables were measured by one-way ANOVA and t-test, and the independent risk factors for carcinogenesis were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves subsequently performed the predictive value of significant serological parameters and the Corheatmaps illustrated the correlation of these parameters in every case. Our retrospective study revealed that various serological indexes could reflect carcinogenesis in inflammatory patients, as significant differences existed in many indexes between them. It was notable that indicator composed of IL-6 and neutrophils/lymphocytes ratio (NLR) occupied the superior position of Area Under Curve (AUC) values in cancer cases, especially in patients with solid tumors (AUC = 0.85). The newly-found indicator could also be referred as an independent risk factor, which provided us with novel clues on the investigation of more reliable and affordable clinical indexes in tumor prediction.

5-Desmethylsinensetin isolated from Artemisia princeps suppresses the stemness of breast cancer cells via Stat3/IL-6 and Stat3/YAP1 signaling

AIMS

To study 5-desmethylsinensetin exhibiting potential anticancer activity against breast cancer stem cells and the related molecular mechanism.

MAIN METHODS

In this study, isolation of a cancer stem cell (CSC) inhibitor of Artemisia princeps was performed using a silica gel column, a Sephadex gel column, and high-performance liquid chromatography. A single compound was purified via activity-based isolation using mammosphere formation assays. An MTS was used to examine the proliferation of breast cancer cells, and flow cytometry was used to analyze apoptosis and cancer stem cell markers. Western blotting was used to detect the signaling pathway.

RESULTS

The isolated compound was identified as 5-desmethylsinensetin using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. 5-Desmethylsinensetin suppresses the proliferation and mammosphere formation of breast cancer cells, reduces the subpopulations of CD44⁺/CD24^- and ALDH1⁺ cancer cells, and reduces the transcription of the stemness markers Oct4, c-Myc, Nanog and CD44 in Breast CSCs. 5-Desmethylsinensetin inhibits the total and nuclear expression of Stat3 and p-Stat3, as well as the translocation of YAP1. Additionally, 5-desmethylsinensetin reduces the mRNA and protein levels of IL-6.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that 5-desmethylsinensetin exhibits potential anticancer activity against breast cancer stem cells via Stat3-IL-6 and Stat3-YAP1 signaling.

Expression Profiling of Glioblastoma Cell Lines Reveals Novel Extracellular Matrix-Receptor Genes Correlated With the Responsiveness of Glioma Patients to Ionizing Radiation

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal and frequent type of brain tumor, leading patients to death in approximately 14 months after diagnosis. GBM treatment consists in surgical removal followed by radio and chemotherapy. However, tumors commonly relapse and the treatment promotes only a slight increase in patient survival. Thus, uncovering the cellular mechanisms involved in GBM resistance is of utmost interest, and the use of cell lines has been shown to be an extremely important tool. In this work, the exploration of RNAseq data from different GBM cell lines revealed different expression signatures, distinctly correlated with the behavior of GBM cell lines regarding proliferation indexes and radio-resistance. U87MG and U138MG cells, which presented expressively reduced proliferation and increased radio-resistance, showed a particular expression signature encompassing enrichment in many extracellular matrix (ECM) and receptor genes. Contrasting, U251MG and T98G cells, that presented higher proliferation and sensibility to radiation, exhibited distinct signatures revealing consistent enrichments for DNA repair processes and although several genes from the ECM-receptor pathway showed up-regulation, enrichments for this pathway were not detected. The ECM-receptor is a master regulatory pathway that is known to impact several cellular processes including: survival, proliferation, migration, invasion, and DNA damage signaling and repair, corroborating the associations we found. Furthermore, searches to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) repository revealed prognostic correlations with glioma patients for the majority of genes highlighted in the signatures and led to the identification of 31 ECM-receptor genes individually correlated with radiation responsiveness. Interestingly, we observed an association between the number of upregulated genes and survivability greater than 5 years after diagnosis, where almost all the patients that presented 21 or more upregulated genes were deceased before 5 years. Altogether our findings suggest the clinical relevance of ECM-receptor genes signature found here for radiotherapy decision and as biomarkers of glioma prognosis.

Residual Disease in Glioma Recurrence: A Dangerous Liaison with Senescence

With a dismally low median survival of less than two years after diagnosis, Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal type of brain cancer. The standard-of-care of surgical resection, followed by DNA-damaging chemo-/radiotherapy, is often non-curative. In part, this is because individual cells close to the resection border remain alive and eventually undergo renewed proliferation. These residual, therapy-resistant cells lead to rapid recurrence, against which no effective treatment exists to date. Thus, new experimental approaches need to be developed against residual disease to prevent GBM survival and recurrence. Cellular senescence is an attractive area for the development of such new approaches. Senescence can occur in healthy cells when they are irreparably damaged. Senescent cells develop a chronic secretory phenotype that is generally considered pro-tumorigenic and pro-migratory. Age is a negative prognostic factor for GBM stage, and, with age, senescence steadily increases. Moreover, chemo-/radiotherapy can provide an additional increase in senescence close to the tumor. In light of this, we will review the importance of senescence in the tumor-supportive brain parenchyma, focusing on the invasion and growth of GBM in residual disease. We will propose a future direction on the application of anti-senescence therapies against recurrent GBM.

The Role of Ninjurin1 and Its Impact beyond the Nervous System

Ninjurin1 (Ninj1) is a double-transmembrane cell surface protein that could promote nerve regeneration in the process of the peripheral nervous system injury and repairment. Nonetheless, the accurate function of Ninj1 in the central nervous system and outside the nervous system is not completely clear. According to the recent studies, we found that Ninj1 is also aberrantly expressed in various pathophysiological processes in vivo, including inflammation, tumorigenesis, and vascular, bone, and muscle homeostasis. These findings suggest that Ninj1 may play an influential role during these pathophysiological processes. Our review summarizes the diverse roles of Ninj1 in multiple pathophysiological processes inside and outside the nervous system. Ninj1 should be considered as an important and novel therapeutic target in certain diseases, such as inflammatory diseases and ischemic diseases. Our study provided a better understanding of Ninj1 in different pathophysiological processes and thereby provided the theoretical support for further research.

IL-6 in inflammation, autoimmunity and cancer

IL-6 is involved both in immune responses and in inflammation, hematopoiesis, bone metabolism and embryonic development. IL-6 plays roles in chronic inflammation (closely related to chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases and cancer) and even in the cytokine storm of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Acute inflammation during the immune response and wound healing is a well-controlled response, whereas chronic inflammation and the cytokine storm are uncontrolled inflammatory responses. Non-immune and immune cells, cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and transcription factors nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) play central roles in inflammation. Synergistic interactions between NF-κB and STAT3 induce the hyper-activation of NF-κB followed by the production of various inflammatory cytokines. Because IL-6 is an NF-κB target, simultaneous activation of NF-κB and STAT3 in non-immune cells triggers a positive feedback loop of NF-κB activation by the IL-6-STAT3 axis. This positive feedback loop is called the IL-6 amplifier (IL-6 Amp) and is a key player in the local initiation model, which states that local initiators, such as senescence, obesity, stressors, infection, injury and smoking, trigger diseases by promoting interactions between non-immune cells and immune cells. This model counters dogma that holds that autoimmunity and oncogenesis are triggered by the breakdown of tissue-specific immune tolerance and oncogenic mutations, respectively. The IL-6 Amp is activated by a variety of local initiators, demonstrating that the IL-6-STAT3 axis is a critical target for treating diseases.

Revealing the synergistic mechanism of Shenfu Decoction for anti-heart failure through network pharmacology strategy

The present study was designed to investigate the targets and synergistic mechanism of Shenfu Decoction (SFD) in the treatment of heart failure. A heart failure animal models was established to evaluate the pharmacological effects of SFD for anti-heart failure, then constructed ingredient-target interaction network by developing ingredient and target databases, the Discovery sdudio software was used for molecular docking. In addition, we validated the predicted protein targets of active ingredients in SFD by using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology. Our results demonstrated that SFD could enhance ejection fraction, alleviate myocardial histopathological characteristics, and reduce the level of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), aldosterone (ALD), atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) and Renin (REN) in heart failure rat model. In addition, the ingredient database including 349 constituents and target database including 236 proteins were established, and 75 proteins were screened and identified by molecular docking strategy. 22 core target proteins were identified through network pharmacology, and the component-core target network was constructed. Finally, the affinity between the compounds and targets were verified by the SPR analysis method. The present study suggested that SFD may act on ACE 2, REN, ACE, ICAM-1, EGF, HTR2B, PARP1, NPPB and other proteins through AC, BAC, ACN, Re, Rg1, Rb1 to exert synergistic effects against heart failure.

STAT3 Stabilizes IKKα Protein through Direct Interaction in Transformed and Cancerous Human Breast Epithelial Cells

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) are two representative transcription factors that play a critical role in inflammation-associated tumorigenesis through multi-level cooperation. Unlike other types of tumors, breast carcinomas have shown a significant dependency on the non-classical NF-κB pathway as well as the classical one. The α subunit of the inhibitor of the κB kinase (IKK) complex, IKKα, is involved in both classical and non-classical activation of NF-κB. Although the cross-talk between STAT3 and NF-κB has been suggested in several studies, the interplay between STAT3 and the regulators of NF-κB including IKKα has not been fully clarified yet. In this study, we observed overexpression and co-localization of IKKα and STAT3 in human breast cancer tissues as well as in H-Ras transformed human breast epithelial (H-Ras MCF-10A) and breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cells. By utilizing small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology, we were able to demonstrate that STAT3 up-regulated IKKα, but not IKKβ or IKKγ, in these cells. This was attributable to direct binding to and subsequent stabilization of IKKα protein by blocking the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Notably, we identified the lysine 44 residue of IKKα as a putative binding site for STAT3. Moreover, siRNA knockdown of IKKα attenuated viability, anchorage-independent growth and migratory capabilities of H-Ras MCF-10A cells. Taken together, these findings propose a novel mechanism responsible for NF-κB activation by STAT3 through stabilization of IKKα, which contributes to breast cancer promotion and progression. Thus, breaking the STAT3-IKKα alliance can be an alternative therapeutic strategy for the treatment of breast cancer.

The relationship between IL-6 and thrombocytosis accompanying gastrointestinal tumours

Introduction

Several reports have stated that thrombocytosis is associated with worse survival and higher rate of metastasis in solid tumours. A study in ovarian tumours implicated IL-6 produced by tumour cells as a key mechanistic factor.

Aim

To evaluate the relevance of this paraneoplastic pathway in gastrointestinal cancer.

Material and methods

After excluding thromboembolic and inflammatory disorders, 161 patients were enrolled who had been operated due to various gastrointestinal cancer at the 1^st Department of Surgery at the Semmelweis University between 2015 and 2017. Platelet counts and serum IL-6 levels were determined from preoperative blood samples. Thrombocytosis was defined as the upper limit of normal platelet count, e.g. 400 × 10³/µl.

Results

A weak but significantly positive correlation was found between elevated platelet counts and serum IL-6 (correlation coefficient: R = 0.214, p = 0.006), which became more pronounced in colon and oesophageal cancer if evaluated in the different tumour types (R = 0.292 and R = 0.419, respectively). However, using a multivariant linear regression model (R ² = 0.47) corrected with haemoglobin, white blood cell count, and advanced disease stage, the analysis showed no significant correlation between serum IL-6 and platelet counts.

Conclusions

In gastrointestinal cancer our study did not support the paracrine-mediated paraneoplastic pathway described in ovarian tumors. Thrombocytosis showed significant correlation with white blood cells instead of serum IL-6, which implies that the inflammatory process may influence both parameters. Further studies are needed on larger patient cohorts.

Radioresistance in Glioblastoma and the Development of Radiosensitizers

Ionizing radiation is a common and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). Unfortunately, some GBMs are relatively radioresistant and patients have worse outcomes after radiation treatment. The mechanisms underlying intrinsic radioresistance in GBM has been rigorously investigated over the past several years, but the complex interaction of the cellular molecules and signaling pathways involved in radioresistance remains incompletely defined. A clinically effective radiosensitizer that overcomes radioresistance has yet to be identified. In this review, we discuss the current status of radiation treatment in GBM, including advances in imaging techniques that have facilitated more accurate diagnosis, and the identified mechanisms of GBM radioresistance. In addition, we provide a summary of the candidate GBM radiosensitizers being investigated, including an update of subjects enrolled in clinical trials. Overall, this review highlights the importance of understanding the mechanisms of GBM radioresistance to facilitate the development of effective radiosensitizers.

oprC Impairs Host Defense by Increasing the Quorum-Sensing-Mediated Virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, found widely in the wild, causes infections in the lungs and several other organs in healthy people but more often in immunocompromised individuals. P. aeruginosa infection leads to inflammasome assembly, pyroptosis, and cytokine release in the host. OprC is one of the bacterial porins abundant in the outer membrane vesicles responsible for channel-forming and copper binding. Recent research has revealed that OprC transports copper, an essential trace element involved in various physiological processes, into bacteria during copper deficiency. Here, we found that oprC deletion severely impaired bacterial motility and quorum-sensing systems, as well as lowered levels of lipopolysaccharide and pyocyanin in P. aeruginosa. In addition, oprC deficiency impeded the stimulation of TLR2 and TLR4 and inflammasome activation, resulting in decreases in proinflammatory cytokines and improved disease phenotypes, such as attenuated bacterial loads, lowered lung barrier damage, and longer mouse survival. Moreover, oprC deficiency significantly alleviated pyroptosis in macrophages. Mechanistically, oprC gene may impact quorum-sensing systems in P. aeruginosa to alter pyroptosis and inflammatory responses in cells and mice through the STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathway. Our findings characterize OprC as a critical virulence regulator, providing the groundwork for further dissection of the pathogenic mechanism of OprC as a potential therapeutic target of P. aeruginosa.

Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling Complexes in Acute Inflammation

Significance: Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a master regulator of the inflammatory response and represents a key regulatory node in the complex inflammatory signaling network. In addition, selective NF-κB transcriptional activity on specific target genes occurs through the control of redox-sensitive NF-κB interactions. Recent Advances: The selective NF-κB response is mediated by redox-modulated NF-κB complexes with ribosomal protein S3 (RPS3), Pirin (PIR). cAMP response element-binding (CREB)-binding protein (CBP)/p300, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α), activator protein-1 (AP-1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), early growth response protein 1 (EGR-1), and SP-1. NF-κB is cooperatively coactivated with AP-1, STAT3, EGR-1, and SP-1 during the inflammatory process, whereas NF-κB complexes with CBP/p300 and PGC-1α regulate the expression of antioxidant genes. PGC-1α may act as selective repressor of phospho-p65 toward interleukin-6 (IL-6) in acute inflammation. p65 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) compete for binding to coactivator CBP/p300 playing opposite roles in the regulation of inflammatory genes. S-nitrosylation or tyrosine nitration favors the recruitment of specific NF-κB subunits to κB sites. Critical Issues: NF-κB is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that forms specific signaling complexes to regulate selectively the expression of target genes in acute inflammation. Protein-protein interactions with coregulatory proteins, other transcription factors, and chromatin-remodeling proteins provide transcriptional specificity to NF-κB. Furthermore, different NF-κB subunits may form distinct redox-sensitive homo- and heterodimers with distinct affinities for κB sites. Future Directions: Further research is required to elucidate the whole NF-κB interactome to fully characterize the complex NF-κB signaling network in redox signaling, inflammation, and cancer.

RIP1 Is a Novel Component of γ-ionizing Radiation-Induced Invasion of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Abstract: Previously, we demonstrated that γ-ionizing radiation (IR) triggers the invasion/migration of A549 cells via activation of an EGFR-p38/ERK-STAT3/CREB-1-EMT pathway. Here, we have demonstrated the involvement of a novel intracellular signaling mechanism in γ-ionizing radiation (IR)-induced migration/invasion. Expression of receptor-interacting protein (RIP) 1 was initially increased upon exposure of A549, a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line, to IR. IR-induced RIP1 is located downstream of EGFR and involved in the expression/activity of matrix metalloproteases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and vimentin, suggesting a role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Our experiments showed that IR-induced RIP1 sequentially induces Src-STAT3-EMT to promote invasion/migration. Inhibition of RIP1 kinase activity and expression blocked induction of EMT by IR and suppressed the levels and activities of MMP-2, MMP-9 and vimentin. IR-induced RIP1 activation was additionally associated with stimulation of the transcriptional factor NF-κB. Specifically, exposure to IR triggered NF-κB activation and inhibition of NF-κB suppressed IR-induced RIP1 expression, followed by a decrease in invasion/migration as well as EMT. Based on the collective results, we propose that IR concomitantly activates EGFR and NF-κB and subsequently triggers the RIP1-Src/STAT3-EMT pathway, ultimately promoting metastasis.

The Hepatotoxicity of Alantolactone and Germacrone: Their Influence on Cholesterol and Lipid Metabolism in Differentiated HepaRG Cells

The sesquiterpenes alantolactone (ATL) and germacrone (GER) are potential anticancer agents of natural origin. Their toxicity and biological activity have been evaluated using the differentiated HepaRG (dHepaRG) cells, a hepatocyte-like model. The half-maximal inhibitory concentrations of cell viability after 24-h treatment of dHepaRG cells are approximately 60 µM for ATL and 250 µM for GER. However, both sesquiterpenes induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in non-toxic concentrations and significantly dysregulate the mRNA expression of several functional markers of mature hepatocytes. They similarly decrease the protein level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and their transcription target, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). Based on the results of a BATMAN-TCM analysis, the effects of sesquiterpenes on cholesterol and lipid metabolism were studied. Sesquiterpene-mediated dysregulation of both cholesterol and lipid metabolism was observed, during which these compounds influenced the protein expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2), as well as the mRNA expression of HMGCR, CYP19A1, PLIN2, FASN, SCD, ACACB, and GPAM genes. In conclusion, the two sesquiterpenes caused ROS induction at non-toxic concentrations and alterations in cholesterol and lipid metabolism at slightly toxic and toxic concentrations, suggesting a risk of liver damage if administered to humans.

Targeting TRAF3IP2, Compared to Rab27, is More Effective in Suppressing the Development and Metastasis of Breast Cancer

Here we investigated the roles of Rab27a, a player in exosome release, and TRAF3IP2, an inflammatory mediator, in development and metastasis of breast cancer (BC) in vivo. Knockdown (KD) of Rab27a (MDA_KDRab27a) or TRAF3IP2 (MDA_KDTRAF3IP2) in triple negative MDA-MB231 cells reduced tumor growth by 70-97% compared to wild-type tumors (MDA_w). While metastasis was detected in MDA_w-injected animals, none was detected in MDA_KDRab27a- or MDA_KDTRAF3IP2-injected animals. Interestingly, micrometastasis was detected only in the MDA_KDRab27a-injected group. In addition to inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis, silencing TRAF3IP2 disrupted inter-cellular inflammatory mediator-mediated communication with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) injected into contralateral mammary gland, evidenced by the lack of tumor growth at MSC-injected site. Of translational significance, treatment of pre-formed MDA_w-tumors with a lentiviral-TRAF3IP2-shRNA not only regressed their size, but also prevented metastasis. These results demonstrate that while silencing Rab27a and TRAF3IP2 each inhibited tumor growth and metastasis, silencing TRAF3IP2 is more effective; targeting TRAF3IP2 inhibited tumor formation, regressed preformed tumors, and prevented both macro- and micrometastasis. Silencing TRAF3IP2 also blocked interaction between tumor cells and MSCs injected into the contralateral gland, as evidenced by the lack of tumor formation on MSCs injected site. These results identify TRAF3IP2 as a novel therapeutic target in BC.

Serum IL-23, E-selectin and sICAM levels in non-small cell lung cancer patients before and after radiotherapy

Objective

The functions of E-selectin, interleukin (IL)-23, and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients before and after radiotherapy (RT) are poorly understood. The purpose of our study was to investigate serum IL-23, E-selectin and sICAM levels in NSCLC patients before and after RT.

Methods

Forty-four patients with pathologically confirmed NSCLC and 30 healthy individuals were included in the study. All patients received 66.6 Gy of concurrent RT.

Results

Significant differences were observed between serum IL-23, E-selectin and sICAM levels in controls and NSCLC patients both before and after radiotherapy. Inverse correlations were detected between serum IL-23 and E-selectin levels in NSCLC patients before and after RT. Positive correlations were detected between serum sICAM levels of NSCLC patients before and after RT and RT dose. No associations were observed between RT dose and IL-23 or E-selectin levels in patients before and after RT.

Conclusion

Serum IL-23, E-selectin and sICAM levels were elevated in NSCLC patients. While our results demonstrate the prognostic value of these parameters, further molecular studies of NSCLC patients are warranted.

TRIM14 Is a Key Regulator of the Type I IFN Response during Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection

Tripartite motif-containing proteins (TRIMs) play a variety of recently described roles in innate immunity. Although many TRIMs regulate type I IFN expression following cytosolic nucleic acid sensing of viruses, their contribution to innate immune signaling and gene expression during bacterial infection remains largely unknown. Because Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an activator of cGAS-dependent cytosolic DNA sensing, we set out to investigate a role for TRIM proteins in regulating macrophage responses to M. tuberculosis In this study, we demonstrate that TRIM14, a noncanonical TRIM that lacks an E3 ubiquitin ligase RING domain, is a critical negative regulator of the type I IFN response in Mus musculus macrophages. We show that TRIM14 interacts with both cGAS and TBK1 and that macrophages lacking TRIM14 dramatically hyperinduce IFN stimulated gene (ISG) expression following M. tuberculosis infection, cytosolic nucleic acid transfection, and IFN-β treatment. Consistent with a defect in resolution of the type I IFN response, Trim14 knockout macrophages have more phospho-Ser754 STAT3 relative to phospho-Ser727 and fail to upregulate the STAT3 target Socs3, which is required to turn off IFNAR signaling. These data support a model whereby TRIM14 acts as a scaffold between TBK1 and STAT3 to promote phosphorylation of STAT3 at Ser727 and resolve ISG expression. Remarkably, Trim14 knockout macrophages hyperinduce expression of antimicrobial genes like Nos2 and are significantly better than control cells at limiting M. tuberculosis replication. Collectively, these data reveal an unappreciated role for TRIM14 in resolving type I IFN responses and controlling M. tuberculosis infection.

Elevation of CXCL1 indicates poor prognosis and radioresistance by inducing mesenchymal transition in glioblastoma

INTRODUCTION

Glioblastoma (GBM) is identified as a lethal malignant tumor derived from the nervous system. Despite the standard clinical strategy including maximum surgical resection, temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the median survival of GBM patients remains <15 months. Accumulating evidence indicates that rapid-acquired radioresistance is one of the most common reasons for GBM recurrence. Therefore, developing novel therapeutic targets for radioresistant GBM could yield long-term cures.

AIMS

To investigate the functional role of CXCL1 in the acquired radioresistance and identify the molecular pathway correlated to CXCL1.

RESULTS

In this study, we identified that CXCL1 is highly expressed in GBM and the elevation of CXCL1 is involved in radioresistance and poor prognosis in GBM patients. Additionally, silencing CXCL1 attenuated the proliferation and radioresistance of GBM cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that CXCL1-overexpression induced radioresistance through mesenchymal transition of GBM via the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling.

CONCLUSION

CXCL1 was highly enriched in GBM and positively correlated with poor prognosis in GBM patients. Additionally, elevated CXCL1 induced radioresistance in GBM through regulation of NF-κB signaling by promoting mesenchymal transition in GBM.

ICAM-1: A master regulator of cellular responses in inflammation, injury resolution, and tumorigenesis

ICAM-1 is a cell surface glycoprotein and an adhesion receptor that is best known for regulating leukocyte recruitment from circulation to sites of inflammation. However, in addition to vascular endothelial cells, ICAM-1 expression is also robustly induced on epithelial and immune cells in response to inflammatory stimulation. Importantly, ICAM-1 serves as a biosensor to transduce outside-in-signaling via association of its cytoplasmic domain with the actin cytoskeleton following ligand engagement of the extracellular domain. Thus, ICAM-1 has emerged as a master regulator of many essential cellular functions both at the onset and at the resolution of pathologic conditions. Because the role of ICAM-1 in driving inflammatory responses is well recognized, this review will mainly focus on newly emerging roles of ICAM-1 in epithelial injury-resolution responses, as well as immune cell effector function in inflammation and tumorigenesis. ICAM-1 has been of clinical and therapeutic interest for some time now; however, several attempts at inhibiting its function to improve injury resolution have failed. Perhaps, better understanding of its beneficial roles in resolution of inflammation or its emerging function in tumorigenesis will spark new interest in revisiting the clinical value of ICAM-1 as a potential therapeutic target.

STAT3 inhibition induced temozolomide-resistant glioblastoma apoptosis via triggering mitochondrial STAT3 translocation and respiratory chain dysfunction

Recent evidence has demonstrated that the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) gene are abnormally active in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), and this change is crucial for the tumor survival and chemotherapy-resistant. Certain preclinical pharmacology studies have focused on STAT3 phosphorylation and homodimerization, and have developed a class of salicylic acid-based inhibitors, which blocks the nuclear translocation-dependent canonical STAT3 signaling. In the present study, we demonstrated that the salicylic acid-based compound SH-4-54 was quite toxic to temozolomide (TMZ)-resistant GBM cells and could trigger apoptosis in these cells via enhancing mitochondrial translocation-dependent non-canonical STAT3 pathway. We demonstrated that incubation of TMZ-resistant GBM cells with SH-4-54 led to mitochondrial STAT3 (mitoSTAT3) activation and respiratory dysfunction reflected by disrupted (or suppressed) activities of oxidative phosphorylation complexes and oxygen consumption rate. Mechanistically, we proved that SH-4-54 could increase mitoSTAT3 transmembrane import via GRIM-19 and reinforce the association between mitoSTAT3 and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), indicating that SH-4-54 could facilitate the binding of mitoSTAT3 to mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) and negatively regulate mitochondrial-encoded genes, thus leading to the abnormal oxidation respiratory. Lastly, using GRIM-19 knockout cell line and subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumor model, we elaborately showed the enrichment of SH-4-54 in mitochondria by LC-MS/MS analysis. In conclusion, our data demonstrate thatthe salicylic acid-based compound SH-4-54 is quite effective in killing TMZ-resistant GBM cells and this cytotoxicity is attributed to mitoSTAT3 activation.

Gestational exposure to valproic acid upregulates total Stat3 protein expression while downregulating phosphorylated Stat3 in CD-1 mouse embryos with neural tube defects

Valproic acid (VPA), a widely prescribed antiepileptic drug and an effective treatment for psychiatric disorders, is teratogenic causing neural tube defects (NTDs) and other defects in the exposed embryo. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) is a transcription factor that is activated via tyrosine phosphorylation. Stat3, as well as its active form (pYStat3), is expressed during neural tube closure in murine development. This study investigated the effects of in utero VPA exposure on embryonic Stat3 mRNA and protein expression during the critical period of neural tube closure in CD-1 mouse embryos. Following the exposure of CD-1 pregnant mice to the teratogenic dose of 400 mg/kg VPA or saline on gestational day (GD) 9, embryos were harvested at 1, 3, 6, or 24 hr and on GD13. Stat3 mRNA levels remained unchanged at all time points. Total Stat3 protein levels were significantly (p < .05) increased in GD9 embryos at 1 and 6 hr post-exposure and in GD13 exposed nonexencephalic and exencephalic embryo heads. In contrast, phosphorylated Stat3 levels were significantly (p < .05) downregulated in GD9 embryos at the 3 and 6 hr time points with an overall trend of downregulation in the GD10 and GD13 groups. Total and phosphorylated Stat3 protein levels remained unchanged in nuclear extracts of the exposed nonexencephalic and exencephalic GD13 embryo heads. The reported significant downregulation of phosphorylated Stat3 levels suggests its possible role in VPA-induced NTDs in mouse embryos.