Selective CREB-dependent cyclin expression mediated by the PI3K and MAPK pathways supports glioma cell proliferation

Inhibitory effects of Gracilaria edulis and Gracilaria salicornia against the MGMT and VEGFA biomarkers involved in the onset and advancement of glioblastoma using in silico and in vitro approaches

Glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive primary brain tumor originating from glial cells, poses significant treatment challenges due to its rapid growth and invasiveness. The exact mechanisms of GBM's brain damage remain unclear. This study examines primary molecular markers commonly assessed in GBM patients, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), platelet-derived growth factor receptor A (PDGFRA), O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) using computational approaches. The study revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in PDGFRA, EGFR, and VEGFA expression rates, which are particularly interesting. Additionally, MGMT and VEGFA showed higher hazard ratios. Expression levels of MGMT and VEGFA were visualized in immune and malignant cells using single-cell RNA datasets GSE103224 and GSE148842. From a total of 48 compounds in Gracilaria edulis and 86 in Gracilaria salicornia, we identified 15 compounds capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Notably, 2-tridecanone (binding affinity [BA] = -4.2 kcal/mol; root mean square deviation [RMSD] = 1.479 Å) and decanoic acid, ethyl ester (BA = -4.2 kcal/mol; RMSD = 1.702 Å) from G. edulis interacted with MGMT via hydrogen bonds. The compound alpha-terpineol interacted with MGMT (BA = -5.7 kcal/mol; RMSD = 0.501 Å) and VEGFA (BA = -4.7 kcal/mol; RMSD = 2.483 Å). Ethanolic and methanolic extracts from G. edulis and G. salicornia demonstrated mild anti-cell proliferation properties in the GBM LN-229 cell line, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. This study highlights the significance of molecular markers and natural compounds in understanding and potentially treating GBM.

Identification of CREB5 as a prognostic and immunotherapeutic biomarker in glioma through multi-omics pan-cancer analysis

BACKGROUND

The functional relevance of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-response element-binding protein 5 (CREB5) in cancers remains elusive, despite its significance as a member of the CREB family. The current research aims to explore the role of CREB5 in multiple cancers.

METHODS

Pan-cancer analysis was performed to explore the expression patterns, prognostic value, mutational landscape as well as single-cell omic, immunologic, and drug sensitivity profiles of CREB5. Furthermore, we incorporated five distinct machine learning algorithms and determined that the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-COX (LASSO-COX) algorithm, which exhibited the highest C index, was the optimal selection. Subsequently, we constructed a prognostic model centered around CREB5-associated genes. To elucidate the biological function of CREB5 in glioma cells, several assays including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing, transwell, flow cytometric were performed.

RESULTS

CREB5 was overexpressed in pan-cancer and was linked to unfavorable prognosis, particularly in glioma. Furthermore, genetic alterations were determined in various types of cancer, and modifications in the CREB5 gene were linked to the prognosis. The single-cell omics and enrichment analyses showed that CREB5 was predominantly expressed in malignant glioma cells and was critically involved in the regulation of various oncogenic processes. Elevated levels of CREB5 were strongly linked with the infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts and the Th1 subset of CD4+ T cells. The validated CREB5-associated prognostic model reliably predicted the prognosis and drug response of glioma patients. The in vitro experiments showed that CREB5 promoted glioma cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and gap phase 2/mitotic (G2/M) phase arrest and recruited M2 macrophages into glioma cells.

CONCLUSION

CREB5 has the potential to act as an oncogene and a biological marker in multiple cancers, particularly glioma.

CREB: A multifaceted transcriptional regulator of neural and immune function in CNS tumors

Cancers of the central nervous system (CNS) are unique with respect to their tumor microenvironment. Such a status is due to immune-privilege and the cellular behaviors within a highly networked, neural-rich milieu. During tumor development in the CNS, neural, immune and cancer cells establish complex cell-to-cell communication networks which mimic physiological functions, including paracrine signaling and synapse-like formations. This crosstalk regulates diverse pathological functions contributing to tumor progression. In the CNS, regulation of physiological and pathological functions relies on various cell signaling and transcription programs. At the core of these events lies the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding protein (CREB), a master transcriptional regulator in the CNS. CREB is a kinase inducible transcription factor which regulates many CNS functions, including neurogenesis, neuronal survival, neuronal activation and long-term memory. Here, we discuss how CREB-regulated mechanisms operating in diverse cell types, which control development and function of the CNS, are co-opted in CNS tumors.

Glioblastoma preclinical models: Strengths and weaknesses

Glioblastoma multiforme is a highly malignant brain tumor with significant intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The complex signaling cascade that regulates this heterogeneity makes targeted drug therapy ineffective. The development of an optimal preclinical model is crucial for the comprehension of molecular heterogeneity and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. The ideal model should establish a relationship between various oncogenes and their corresponding responses. This review presents an analysis of preclinical in vivo and in vitro models that have contributed to the advancement of knowledge in model development. The experimental designs utilized in vivo models consisting of both immunodeficient and immunocompetent mice induced with intracranial glioma. The transgenic model was generated using various techniques, like the viral vector delivery system, transposon system, Cre-LoxP model, and CRISPR-Cas9 approaches. The utilization of the patient-derived xenograft model in glioma research is valuable because it closely replicates the human glioma microenvironment, providing evidence of tumor heterogeneity. The utilization of in vitro techniques in the initial stages of research facilitated the comprehension of molecular interactions. However, these techniques are inadequate in reproducing the interactions between cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). As a result, bioengineered 3D-in vitro models, including spheroids, scaffolds, and brain organoids, were developed to cultivate glioma cells in a three-dimensional environment. These models have enabled researchers to understand the influence of ECM on the invasive nature of tumors. Collectively, these preclinical models effectively depict the molecular pathways and facilitate the evaluation of multiple molecules while tailoring drug therapy.

Vaccinia-related kinase 2 variants differentially affect breast cancer growth by regulating kinase activity

Genetic information is transcribed from genomic DNA to mRNA, which is then translated into three-dimensional proteins. mRNAs can undergo various post-transcriptional modifications, including RNA editing that alters mRNA sequences, ultimately affecting protein function. In this study, RNA editing was identified at the 499th base (c.499) of human vaccinia-related kinase 2 (VRK2). This RNA editing changes the amino acid in the catalytic domain of VRK2 from isoleucine (with adenine base) to valine (with guanine base). Isoleucine-containing VRK2 has higher kinase activity than the valine-containing VRK2, which leads to an increase in tumor cell proliferation. Earlier we reported that VRK2 directly interacts with dystrobrevin-binding protein (dysbindin) and results in reducing its stability. Herein, we demonstrate that isoleucine-containing VRK2 decreases the level of dysbindin than valine-containing VRK2. Dysbindin interacts with cyclin D and thereby regulates its expression and function. The reduction in the level of dysbindin by isoleucine-containing VRK2 further enhances the cyclin D expression, resulting in increased tumor growth and reduction in survival rates. It has also been observed that in patient samples, VRK2 level was elevated in breast cancer tissue compared to normal breast tissue. Additionally, the isoleucine form of VRK2 exhibited a greater increase in breast cancer tissue. Therefore, it is concluded that VRK2, especially dependent on the 167th variant amino acid, can be one of the indexes of tumor progression and proliferation.

Targeting cyclin D1 as a therapeutic approach for papillary thyroid carcinoma

Cyclin D1 functions as a mitogenic sensor that specifically binds to CDK4/6, thereby integrating external mitogenic inputs and cell cycle progression. Cyclin D1 interacts with transcription factors and regulates various important cellular processes, including differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and DNA repair. Therefore, its dysregulation contributes to carcinogenesis. Cyclin D1 is highly expressed in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the particular cellular mechanisms through which abnormal cyclin D1 expression causes PTC are poorly understood. Unveiling the regulatory mechanisms of cyclin D1 and its function in PTC may help determine clinically effective strategies, and open up better opportunities for further research, leading to the development of novel PTC regimens that are clinically effective. This review explores the mechanisms underlying cyclin D1 overexpression in PTC. Furthermore, we discuss the role of cyclin D1 in PTC tumorigenesis via its interactions with other regulatory elements. Finally, recent progress in the development of therapeutic options targeting cyclin D1 in PTC is examined and summarized.

The Role of Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript (CART) in Cancer: A Systematic Review

The functions of cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) neuropeptide encoded by the CARTPT gene vary from modifying behavior and pain sensitivity to being an antioxidant. Putative CART peptide receptor GPR160 was implicated recently in the pathogenesis of cancer. However, the exact role of CART protein in the development of neoplasms remains unclear. This systematic review includes articles retrieved from the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Medline Complete databases. Nineteen publications that met the inclusion criteria and describe the association of CART and cancer were analyzed. CART is expressed in various types of cancer, e.g., in breast cancer and neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). The role of CART as a potential biomarker in breast cancer, stomach adenocarcinoma, glioma and some types of NETs was suggested. In various cancer cell lines, CARTPT acts an oncogene, enhancing cellular survival by the activation of the ERK pathway, the stimulation of other pro-survival molecules, the inhibition of apoptosis or the increase in cyclin D1 levels. In breast cancer, CART was reported to protect tumor cells from tamoxifen-mediated death. Taken together, these data support the role of CART activity in the pathogenesis of cancer, thus opening new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in neoplastic disorders.

BDNF promotes mouse follicular development and reverses ovarian aging by promoting cell proliferation

BACKGROUND

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an important role in ovarian function including follicle development and oocyte maturation, and embryonic development. However, whether BDNF treatment can reimpose ovarian aging and impaired fertility remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the reproductive outcomes of BDNF treatment and potential mechanisms in aged mice.

METHOD

"Aged" mice (35-37 weeks old, n = 68) were treated with recombinant human BDNF protein (rhBDNF, 1 µg/200 µL) through daily intraperitoneal (IP) injection for 10 days with/without ovulation induction. Reproductive age mice (8-10 weeks old, n = 28) were treated with ANA 12 (a selective BDNF receptor, TrkB antagonist) through daily IP injection for 5 days with/without ovulation induction. Ovarian function was assessed by ovarian weight, number of follicles, and sex hormone productions. Following induction of ovulation, the number of total oocytes or abnormal oocytes, and blastocyst formation were assessed. Reproductive functions of the mice were evaluated, including pregnancy rate, mating duration for conception, implantation sites, litter size, and weight of offspring. Finally, the molecular mechanism of the effects of BDNF on ovarian cell functions in mice were examined by Western blot and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

rhBDNF treatment increased the ovarian weight, number of follicles, number and quality of oocytes including increased blastocysts formation, blood estrogen levels, and pregnancy rate in 35-37-week-old mice. Conversely, BDNF receptor antagonist, ANA 12, treatment decreased the ovarian volume and number of antral follicles and increased the proportion of abnormal oocytes in 8-10-week-old mice. We further demonstrated that BDNF treatment promoted ovarian cell proliferation as well as activation of TrkB and cyclinD1-creb signalling.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that ten consecutive days of daily IP injection of rhBDNF rescued ovarian function in aged mice. Our results further indicate that TrkB and cyclin D1-creb signaling may underlie the BDNF function in ovaries. Targeting BDNF-TrkB signaling is a potential novel therapeutic strategy to reverse ovarian aging.

IGFBP5 is an ROR1 ligand promoting glioblastoma invasion via ROR1/HER2-CREB signaling axis

Diffuse infiltration is the main reason for therapeutic resistance and recurrence in glioblastoma (GBM). However, potential targeted therapies for GBM stem-like cell (GSC) which is responsible for GBM invasion are limited. Herein, we report Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein 5 (IGFBP5) is a ligand for Receptor tyrosine kinase like Orphan Receptor 1 (ROR1), as a promising target for GSC invasion. Using a GSC-derived brain tumor model, GSCs were characterized into invasive or non-invasive subtypes, and RNA sequencing analysis revealed that IGFBP5 was differentially expressed between these two subtypes. GSC invasion capacity was inhibited by IGFBP5 knockdown and enhanced by IGFBP5 overexpression both in vitro and in vivo, particularly in a patient-derived xenograft model. IGFBP5 binds to ROR1 and facilitates ROR1/HER2 heterodimer formation, followed by inducing CREB-mediated ETV5 and FBXW9 expression, thereby promoting GSC invasion and tumorigenesis. Importantly, using a tumor-specific targeting and penetrating nanocapsule-mediated delivery of CRISPR/Cas9-based IGFBP5 gene editing significantly suppressed GSC invasion and downstream gene expression, and prolonged the survival of orthotopic tumor-bearing mice. Collectively, our data reveal that IGFBP5-ROR1/HER2-CREB signaling axis as a potential GBM therapeutic target.

Mechanisms Underlying Cognitive Impairment Induced by Prenatal Alcohol Exposure

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used illicit substances among pregnant women. Clinical and experimental studies have revealed that prenatal alcohol exposure affects fetal brain development and ultimately results in the persistent impairment of the offspring's cognitive functions. Despite this, the rate of alcohol use among pregnant women has been progressively increasing. Various aspects of human and animal behavior, including learning and memory, are dependent on complex interactions between multiple mechanisms, such as receptor function, mitochondrial function, and protein kinase activation, which are especially vulnerable to alterations during the developmental period. Thus, the exploration of the mechanisms that are altered in response to prenatal alcohol exposure is necessary to develop an understanding of how homeostatic imbalance and various long-term neurobehavioral impairments manifest following alcohol abuse during pregnancy. There is evidence that prenatal alcohol exposure results in vast alterations in mechanisms such as long-term potentiation, mitochondrial function, and protein kinase activation in the brain of offspring. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are very few recent reviews that focus on the cognitive effects of prenatal alcohol exposure and the associated mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the recently reported alterations to various mechanisms following alcohol exposure during pregnancy, and to draw potential associations with behavioral changes in affected offspring.

Activation of estrogen receptor ESR1 and ESR2 induces proliferation of the human testicular embryonal carcinoma NT2/D1 cells

The aims of the present study were to investigate the expression of the classic estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2, the splicing variant ESR1-36 and GPER in human testicular embryonal carcinoma NT2/D1 cells, and the effects of the activation of the ESR1 and ESR2 on cell proliferation. Immunostaining of ESR1, ESR2, and GPER were predominantly found in the nuclei, and less abundant in the cytoplasm. ESR1-36 isoform was predominantly expressed in the perinuclear region and cytoplasm, and some weakly immunostained in the nuclei. In nonstimulated NT2/D1 cells (control), proteins of the cell cycle CCND1, CCND2, CCNE1 and CDKN1B are present. Activation of ESR1 and ESR2 increases, respectively, CCND2 and CCNE1 expression, but not CCND1. Activation of ESR2 also mediates upregulation of the cell cycle inhibitor CDKN1B. This protein co-immunoprecipitated with CCND2. Also, E2 induces an increase in the number and viability of the NT2/D1 cells. These effects are blocked by simultaneous pretreatment with ESR1-and ESR2-selective antagonists, confirming that both estrogen receptors regulate NT2/D1 cell proliferation. In addition, E2 increases SRC phosphorylation, and SRC mediates cell proliferation. Our study provides novel insights into the signatures and molecular mechanisms of estrogen receptor in NT2/D1 cells.

CD44 Depletion in Glioblastoma Cells Suppresses Growth and Stemness and Induces Senescence

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal brain tumor, characterized by enhanced proliferation and invasion, as well as increased vascularization and chemoresistance. The expression of the hyaluronan receptor CD44 has been shown to correlate with GBM progression and poor prognosis. Here, we sought to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which CD44 promotes GBM progression by knocking out (KO) CD44, employing CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in U251MG cells. CD44-depleted cells exhibited an impaired proliferation rate, as shown by the decreased cell numbers, decreased Ki67-positive cell nuclei, diminished phosphorylation of CREB, and increased levels of the cell cycle inhibitor p16 compared to control cells. Furthermore, the CD44 KO cells showed decreased stemness and increased senescence, which was manifested upon serum deprivation. In stem cell-like enriched spheres, RNA-sequencing analysis of U251MG cells revealed a CD44 dependence for gene signatures related to hypoxia, the glycolytic pathway, and G2 to M phase transition. Partially similar results were obtained when cells were treated with the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT, which inhibits CD44 cleavage and therefore inhibits the release of the intracellular domain (ICD) of CD44, suggesting that certain transcriptional responses are dependent on CD44-ICD. Interestingly, the expression of molecules involved in hyaluronan synthesis, degradation, and interacting matrix proteins, as well as of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) isoforms and PDGF receptors, were also deregulated in CD44 KO cells. These results were confirmed by the knockdown of CD44 in another GBM cell line, U2990. Notably, downregulation of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) impaired the hypoxia-related genes and decreased the CD44 protein levels, suggesting a CD44/hyaluronan feedback circuit contributing to GBM progression.

RNA Binding Motif 5 Gene Deletion Modulates Cell Signaling in a Sex-Dependent Manner but not Hippocampal Cell Death

RNA-binding motif 5 (RBM5) is a pro-death tumor suppressor gene in cancer cells. It remains to be determined if it is neurotoxic in the brain or rather if it plays a fundamentally different role in the central nervous system (CNS). Brain-specific RBM5 knockout (KO) mice were given a controlled cortical impact (CCI) traumatic brain injury (TBI). Markers of acute cellular damage and repair were measured in hippocampal homogenates 48 h post-CCI. Hippocampal CA1/CA3 cell counts were assessed 7 days post-CCI to determine if early changes in injury markers were associated with histological outcome. No genotype-dependent differences were found in the levels of apoptotic markers (caspase 3, caspase 6, and caspase 9). However, KO females had a paradoxical increase in markers of pro-death calpain activation (145/150-spectrin and breakdown products [SBDP]) and in DNA repair/survival markers. (pH2A.x and pCREB). CCI-injured male KOs had a significant increase in phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (pCaMKII). Despite sex/genotype-dependent differences in KOs in the levels of acute cell signaling targets involved in cell death pathways, 7 day hippocampal neuronal survival did not differ from that of wild types (WTs). Similarly, no differences in astrogliosis were observed. Finally, gene analysis revealed increased estrogen receptor α (ERα) levels in the KO hippocampus in females and may suggest a novel mechanism to explain sex-dimorphic effects on cell signaling. In summary, RBM5 inhibition did not affect hippocampal survival after a TBI in vivo but did modify targets involved in neural signal transduction/Ca²⁺ signaling pathways. Findings here support the view that RBM5 may serve a purpose in the CNS that is dissimilar from its traditional pro-death role in cancer.

Essential function of adaptor protein Nck1 in platelet-derived growth factor receptor signaling in human lens epithelial cells

Binding of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) to its cognate receptor (PDGFR) promotes lens epithelial cell (LEC) proliferation and migration. After cataract surgery, these LEC behaviors have been proposed as an influential cause of posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Stimulated PDFGR undergoes dimerization and tyrosine phosphorylation providing docking sites for a SH2-domain-containing noncatalytic region of tyrosine kinase (Nck). Nck is an adaptor protein acting as a linker of the proximal and downstream signaling events. However, the functions of Nck1 protein in LEC have not been investigated so far. We reported here a crucial role of Nck1 protein in regulating PDGFR-mediated LEC activation using LEC with a silenced expression of Nck1 protein. The knockdown of Nck1 suppressed PDGF-BB-stimulated LEC proliferation and migration and disrupted the cell cycle progression especially G1/S transition. LEC lacking Nck1 protein failed to exhibit actin polymerization and membrane protrusions. The downregulation of Nck1 protein in LEC impaired PDGFR‐induced phosphorylation of intracellular signaling proteins, including Erk1/2, Akt, CREB and ATF1, which resulted in inhibition of LEC responses. Therefore, these data suggest that the loss of Nck1 expression may disturb LEC activation and Nck1 may potentially be a drug target to prevent PCO and lens-related disease.

Novel Synthetic Coumarin-Chalcone Derivative (E)-3-(3-(4-(Dimethylamino)Phenyl)Acryloyl)-4-Hydroxy-2H-Chromen-2-One Activates CREB-Mediated Neuroprotection in Aβ and Tau Cell Models of Alzheimer's Disease

Abnormal accumulations of misfolded Aβ and tau proteins are major components of the hallmark plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. These abnormal protein deposits cause neurodegeneration through a number of proposed mechanisms, including downregulation of the cAMP-response-element (CRE) binding protein 1 (CREB) signaling pathway. Using CRE-GFP reporter cells, we investigated the effects of three coumarin-chalcone derivatives synthesized in our lab on CREB-mediated gene expression. Aβ-GFP- and ΔK280 tau_RD-DsRed-expressing SH-SY5Y cells were used to evaluate these agents for possible antiaggregative, antioxidative, and neuroprotective effects. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration was assessed by pharmacokinetic studies in mice. Of the three tested compounds, (E)-3-(3-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)acryloyl)-4-hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one (LM-021) was observed to increase CREB-mediated gene expression through protein kinase A (PKA), Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in CRE-GFP reporter cells. LM-021 exhibited antiaggregative, antioxidative, and neuroprotective effects mediated by the upregulation of CREB phosphorylation and its downstream brain-derived neurotrophic factor and BCL2 apoptosis regulator genes in Aβ-GFP- and ΔK280 tau_RD-DsRed-expressing SH-SY5Y cells. Blockage of the PKA, CaMKII, or ERK pathway counteracted the beneficial effects of LM-021. LM-021 also exhibited good BBB penetration ability, with brain to plasma ratio of 5.3%, in in vivo pharmacokinetic assessment. Our results indicate that LM-021 works as a CREB enhancer to reduce Aβ and tau aggregation and provide neuroprotection. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of LM-021 in treating AD.

IL-10 in glioma

The prognosis for patients with glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and malignant type of primary brain tumour, is very poor, despite current standard treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment hinders the development of effective immunotherapies for GBM. Cytokines such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) play a major role in modulating the activity of infiltrating immune cells and tumour cells in GBM, predominantly conferring an immunosuppressive action; however, in some circumstances, IL-10 can have an immunostimulatory effect. Elucidating the function of IL-10 in GBM is necessary to better strategise and improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. This review discusses the immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive roles of IL-10 in the GBM tumour microenvironment while considering IL-10-targeted treatment strategies. The molecular mechanisms that underlie the expression of IL-10 in various cell types are also outlined, and how this resulting information might provide an avenue for the improvement of immunotherapy in GBM is explored.

Diacylglycerol kinase δ functions as a proliferation suppressor in pancreatic β-cells

Although an aberrant reduction in pancreatic β-cell mass contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetes, the mechanism underlying the regulation of β-cell mass is poorly understood. Here, we show that diacylglycerol kinase δ (DGKδ) is a key enzyme in the regulation of β-cell mass. DGKδ expression was detected in the nucleus of β-cells. We developed β-cell-specific DGKδ knockout (βDGKδ KO) mice, which showed lower blood glucose, higher plasma insulin levels, and better glucose tolerance compared to control mice. Moreover, an increased number of small islets and Ki-67-positive islet cells, as well as elevated cyclin B1 expression in the islets, were detected in the pancreas of βDGKδ KO mice. DGKδ knockdown in the β-cell line MIN6 induced significant increases in bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation and cyclin B1 expression. Finally, we confirmed that streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia and β-cell loss were alleviated in βDGKδ KO mice. Thus, suppressing the expression or enzymatic activity of DGKδ that functions as a suppressor of β-cell proliferation could be a novel therapeutic approach to increase β-cell mass for the treatment of diabetes.

The risk of pancreatic adenocarcinoma following SARS-CoV family infection

COVID 19 disease has become a global catastrophe over the past year that has claimed the lives of over two million people around the world. Despite the introduction of vaccines against the disease, there is still a long way to completely eradicate it. There are concerns about the complications following infection with SARS-CoV-2. This research aimed to evaluate the possible correlation between infection with SARS-CoV viruses and cancer in an in-silico study model. To do this, the relevent dataset was selected from GEO database. Identification of differentially expressed genes among defined groups including SARS-CoV, SARS-dORF6, SARS-BatSRBD, and H1N1 were screened where the |Log FC| ≥ 1and p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Later, the pathway enrichment analysis and gene ontology (GO) were used by Enrichr and Shiny GO databases. Evaluation with STRING online was applied to predict the functional interactions of proteins, followed by Cytoscape analysis to identify the master genes. Finally, analysis with GEPIA2 server was carried out to reveal the possible correlation between candidate genes and cancer development. The results showed that the main molecular function of up- and down-regulated genes was "double-stranded RNA binding" and actin-binding, respectively. STRING and Cytoscape analysis presented four genes, PTEN, CREB1, CASP3, and SMAD3 as the key genes involved in cancer development. According to TCGA database results, these four genes were up-regulated notably in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Our findings suggest that pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the most probably malignancy happening after infection with SARS-CoV family.

Isookanin Inhibits PGE2-Mediated Angiogenesis by Inducing Cell Arrest through Inhibiting the Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and CREB in HMEC-1 Cells

Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a critical mediator of angiogenesis, and unregulated angiogenic responses often involve human diseases. The importance of regulating angiogenesis in inflammatory diseases has been demonstrated through some successful cases of anti-angiogenesis therapies in related diseases, including arthritis, but it has been reported that some synthetic types of antiangiogenic drugs have potential side effects. In recent years, the importance of finding alternative strategies for regulating angiogenesis has begun to attract the attention of researchers. Therefore, identification of natural ingredients used to prevent or treat angiogenesis-related diseases will play a greater role. Isookanin is a phenolic flavonoid presented in Bidens extract, and it has been reported that isookanin possesses some biological properties, including antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, anti-diabetic properties, and an ability to inhibit α-amylase. However, its antiangiogenic effects and mechanism thereof have not been studied yet. In this study, our results indicate that isookanin has an effective inhibitory effect on the angiogenic properties of microvascular endothelial cells. Isookanin shows inhibitory effects in multiple stages of PGE₂-induced angiogenesis, including the growth, proliferation, migration, and tube formation of microvascular endothelial cells. In addition, isookanin induces cell cycle arrest in S phase, which is also the reason for subsequent inhibition of cell proliferation. The mechanism of inhibiting angiogenesis by isookanin is related to the inhibition of PGE₂-mediated ERK1/2 and CREB phosphorylation. These findings make isookanin a potential candidate for the treatment of angiogenesis-related diseases.

4-Acetylantrocamol LT3 Inhibits Glioblastoma Cell Growth and Downregulates DNA Repair Enzyme O6-Methylguanine-DNA Methyltransferase

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a deadly malignant brain tumor that is resistant to most clinical treatments. Novel therapeutic agents that are effective against GBM are required. Antrodia cinnamomea has shown antiproliferative effects in GBM cells. However, the exact mechanisms and bioactive components remain unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of 4-acetylantrocamol LT3 (4AALT3), a new ubiquinone from Antrodia cinnamomeamycelium, in vitro. U87 and U251 cell lines were treated with the indicated concentration of 4AALT3. Cell viability, cell colony-forming ability, migration, and the expression of proteins in well-known signaling pathways involved in the malignant properties of glioblastoma were then analyzed by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, and western blotting assays, respectively. We found that 4AALT3 significantly decreased cell viability, colony formation, and cell migration in both in vitro models. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Hippo/yes-associated protein (YAP), and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) pathways were suppressed by 4AALT3. Moreover, 4AALT3 decreased the level of DNA repair enzyme O⁶-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase and showed a synergistic effect with temozolomide. Our findings provide the basis for exploring the beneficial effect of 4AALT3 on GBM in vivo.

The multi-target small-molecule inhibitor SB747651A shows in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy in glioblastomas

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common primary brain tumor and among the most lethal types of cancer. Several mono-target small molecule-inhibitors have been investigated as novel therapeutics, thus far with poor success. In this study we investigated the anticancer effects of SB747651A, a multi-target small-molecule inhibitor, in three well characterized patient-derived glioblastoma spheroid cultures and a murine orthotopic xenograft model. Concentrations of 5–10 µM SB747651A reduced cell proliferation, spheroid formation, migration and chemoresistance, while apoptotic cell death increased. Investigation of oncogenic kinase signaling showed decreased phosphorylation levels of mTOR, CREB, GSK3 and GYS1 leading to altered glycogen metabolism and formation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Expression levels of cancer stemness marker SOX2 were reduced in treated tumor cells and SB747651A treatment significantly prolonged survival of mice with intracranial glioblastoma xenografts, while no adverse effects were observed in vivo at doses of 25 mg/kg administered 5 days/week for 8 weeks. These findings suggest that SB747651A has anticancer effects in glioblastoma. The cancer-related pathophysiological mechanisms targeted by SB747651A are shared among many types of cancer; however, an in-depth clarification of the mechanisms of action in cancer cells is important before further potential application of SB747651A as an anticancer agent can be considered.

LncRNA RUSC1-AS1 contributes to the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by modulating miR-340-5p/CREB1 axis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have proven that there is a relationship between long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and malignant tumor hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the function of RUSC1-AS1 and its relative regulators in HCC remains unknown.

METHODS

In vitro studies, CCK-8 assays, colony formation assays, transwell assays, and wound healing tests were carried out to evaluate the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. The correlation between RUSC1-AS1 expression with tumor size or weight was studied in nude mice. Bioinformatics analysis, dual luciferase, quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR), and Western blot analysis aimed to discover the relevance between miR-340-5p and RUSC1-AS1 or cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1).

RESULTS

When compared with normal groups, RUSC1-AS1 expression in HCC tissues and HCC cell lines was higher. We also found that knockdown of RUSC1-AS1 inhibited HCC cell progression, including proliferation, migration, and invasion, and suppressed tumorigenesis in vivo. Further studies demonstrated that the expression of RUSC1-AS1 negatively correlated with miR-340-5p expression in HCC cells. In addition, miR-340-5p was identified as a direct target of RUSC1-AS1 and tightly associated with the prevention of tumor progression. Moreover, miR-340-5p bound directly to CREB1. CREB1 overexpression reversed the impact of miR-340-5p on HCC cells. Together, lncRNA RUSC1-AS1 plays a regulatory role in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in HCC cells.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that lncRNA RUSC1-AS1 influenced HCC cell progression by modulating its downstream target miR-340-5p/CREB1 axis via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which may be a potential prognostic and therapeutic target for treating HCC.

FKBP10 promotes proliferation of glioma cells via activating AKT-CREB-PCNA axis

Background

Although the availability of therapeutic options including temozolomide, radiotherapy and some target agents following neurosurgery, the prognosis of glioma patients remains poor. Thus, there is an urgent need to explore possible targets for clinical treatment of this disease.

Methods

Tissue microarrays and immunohistochemistry were used to detect FKBP10, Hsp47, p-AKT (Ser473), p-CREB (Ser133) and PCNA expression in glioma tissues and xenografts. CCK-8 tests, colony formation assays and xenograft model were performed to test proliferation ability of FKBP10 in glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR, western-blotting, GST-pull down, co-immunoprecipitation and confocal-immunofluorescence staining assay were used to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the functions of overexpressed FKBP10 in glioma cells.

Results

FKBP10 was highly expressed in glioma tissues and its expression was positively correlates with grade, poor prognosis. FKBP10-knockdown suppressed glioma cell proliferation in vitro and subcutaneous/orthotopic xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Silencing of FKBP10 reduced p-AKT (Ser473), p-CREB (Ser133), PCNA mRNA and PCNA protein expression in glioma cells. FKBP10 interacting with Hsp47 enhanced the proliferation ability of glioma cells via AKT-CREB-PCNA cascade. In addition, correlation between these molecules were also found in xenograft tumor and glioma tissues.

Conclusions

We showed for the first time that FKBP10 is overexpressed in glioma and involved in proliferation of glioma cells by interacting with Hsp47 and activating AKT-CREB-PCNA signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that inhibition of FKBP10 related signaling might offer a potential therapeutic option for glioma patients.

LACTB mRNA expression is increased in pancreatic adenocarcinoma and high expression indicates a poor prognosis

This study aimed to find the prognostic value of Beta-lactamase-like (LACTB) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) patients. The mRNA expression of LACTB was upregulated in PAAD and was correlated with vital status (P = 0.0199). The immunoreactive scores of LACTB protein in human PAAD tissues were significantly higher than those in adjacent noncancerous pancreatic tissues. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve assessment showed that LACTB mRNA expression has high diagnostic value in PAAD. Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox analyses suggested that patients with high LACTB mRNA expression have a poor prognosis, indicating that LACTB mRNA is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.72, P = 0.015, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.106–2.253] and disease-specific survival (HR = 1.97, P = 0.004, 95% CI = 1.238–3.152) of PAAD patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that hallmark_g2m_checkpoint, hallmark_myc_targets_v1, hallmark_e2f_targets, and kegg_cell_cycle were differentially enriched in phenotypes with high LACTB expression. In addition, CDC20, CDK4, MCM6, MAD2L1, MCM2 and MCM5 were leading genes intersecting in these four pathways, and a positive correlation between mRNA expression and LACTB was observed in most normal and cancer tissues. Finally, elevated LACTB mRNA expression was significantly related to multiple immune marker sets. Our results elucidate that LACTB is involved in the development of cancer, and that high LACTB expression in patients with PAAD can predict a poor prognosis. High LACTB expression was significantly correlated with cell cycle-related genes and multiple immune marker sets.

Down-Regulated CUEDC2 Increases GDNF Expression by Stabilizing CREB Through Reducing Its Ubiquitination in Glioma

Abnormally high expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) derived from glioma cells has essential impacts on gliomagenesis and development, but the molecular basis underlying increased GDNF expression in glioma cells remain unclear. This work aimed to study the molecular mechanisms that may explain the accumulation of GDNF in glioma. Firstly, we observed that cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), known as an important transcription factor for binding of GDNF promoter region, was highly expressed with an apparent accumulation into the nucleus of glioma cells, which may contribute to the transcription of GDNF. Secondly, CUE domain-containing protein 2 (CUEDC2), a ubiquitin-regulated protein, could increase the amount of binding between the E3 ligase tripartite motif-containing 21 (TRIM21) and CREB and affect the CREB level. Like our previous study, it showed that there was a significantly down-regulation of CUEDC2 in glioma. Finally, our data suggest that GDNF expression is indirectly regulated by transcription factor ubiquitination. Indeed, down-regulation of CUEDC2, decreased the ubiquitination and degradation of CREB, which was associated to high levels of GDNF. Furthermore, abundant CREB involved in the binding to the GDNF promoter region contributes to GDNF high expression in glioma cells. Collectively, it was verified the GDNF expression was affected by CREB ubiquitination regulated by CUEDC2 level.

Targeting CREB in Cancer Therapy: A Key Candidate or One of Many? An Update

Simple Summary

Only 5% of all drug-related targets currently move from preclinical to clinical in cancer, and just some of them achieve patient’s bedside. Among others, intratumor heterogeneity and preclinical cancer model limitations actually represent the main reasons for this failure. Cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) has been defined as a proto-oncogene in different tumor types, being involved in maintenance and progression. Due to its relevance in tumor pathophysiology, many CREB inhibitor compounds have been developed and tested over the years. Herein, we examine the current state-of-the-art of both CREB and CREB inhibitors in cancer, retracing some of the most significant findings of the last years. While the scientific statement confers on CREB a proactive role in cancer, its therapeutic potential is still stuck at laboratory bench. Therefore, pursuing every concrete result to achieve CREB inhibition in clinical might give chance and future to cancer patients worldwide.

Abstract

Intratumor heterogeneity (ITH) is considered the major disorienting factor in cancer treatment. As a result of stochastic genetic and epigenetic alterations, the appearance of a branched evolutionary shape confers tumor plasticity, causing relapse and unfavorable clinical prognosis. The growing evidence in cancer discovery presents to us “the great paradox” consisting of countless potential targets constantly discovered and a small number of candidates being effective in human patients. Among these, cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) has been proposed as proto-oncogene supporting tumor initiation, progression and metastasis. Overexpression and hyperactivation of CREB are frequently observed in cancer, whereas genetic and pharmacological CREB downregulation affects proliferation and apoptosis. Notably, the present review is designed to investigate the feasibility of targeting CREB in cancer therapy. In particular, starting with the latest CREB evidence in cancer pathophysiology, we evaluate the advancement state of CREB inhibitor design, including the histone lysine demethylases JMJD3/UTX inhibitor GSKJ4 that we newly identified as a promising CREB modulator in leukemia cells. Moreover, an accurate analysis of strengths and weaknesses is also conducted to figure out whether CREB can actually represent a therapeutic candidate or just one of the innumerable preclinical cancer targets.

Mechanistic insights into the activation of ester prodrugs of 666-15

cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) is an oncogenic transcription factor implicated in many different types of cancer. We previously reported the discovery of 666-15 as a potent inhibitor of CREB-mediated gene transcription. In an effort to improve the aqueous solubility of 666-15, amino ester prodrugs 1 and 4 were designed and synthesized. Detailed chemical and biological studies of 1 and 4 revealed that a small portion of the prodrugs were converted into 666-15 through intermediate 3 instead of a long-range O,N-acyl transfer reaction that was initially proposed. These results provide unique insights into the activation of these ester prodrugs.

G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor Mediates Cell Proliferation through the cAMP/PKA/CREB Pathway in Murine Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Estrogen is an important hormone to regulate skeletal physiology via estrogen receptors. The traditional estrogen receptors are ascribed to two nuclear estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and ERβ. Moreover, G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 (GPER-1) was reported as a membrane receptor for estrogen in recent years. However, whether GPER-1 regulated osteogenic cell biology on skeletal system is still unclear. GPER-1 is expressed in growth plate abundantly before puberty but decreased abruptly since the very late stage of puberty in humans. It indicates GPER-1 might play an important role in skeletal growth regulation. GPER-1 expression has been confirmed in osteoblasts, osteocytes and chondrocytes, but its expression in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has not been confirmed. In this study, we hypothesized that GPER-1 is expressed in bone MSCs (BMSC) and enhances BMSC proliferation. The cultured tibiae of neonatal rat and murine BMSCs were tested in our study. GPER-1-specific agonist (G-1) and antagonist (G-15), and GPER-1 siRNA (siGPER-1) were used to evaluate the downstream signaling pathway and cell proliferation. Our results revealed BrdU-positive cell counts were higher in cultured tibiae in the G-1 group. The G-1 also enhanced the cell viability and proliferation, whereas G-15 and siGPER-1 reduced these activities. The cAMP and phosphorylation of CREB were enhanced by G-1 but inhibited by G-15. We further demonstrated that GPER-1 mediates BMSC proliferation via the cAMP/PKA/p-CREB pathway and subsequently upregulates cell cycle regulators, cyclin D1/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 6 and cyclin E1/CDK2 complex. The present study is the first to report that GPER-1 mediates BMSC proliferation. This finding indicates that GPER-1 mediated signaling positively regulates BMSC proliferation and may provide novel insights into addressing estrogen-mediated bone development.

BET bromodomain inhibitor HMBA synergizes with MEK inhibition in treatment of malignant glioma

(1) Background: BET bromodomain proteins regulate transcription by binding acetylated histones and attracting key factors for, e.g., transcriptional elongation. BET inhibitors have been developed to block pathogenic processes such as cancer and inflammation. Despite having potent biological activities, BET inhibitors have still not made a breakthrough in clinical use for treating cancer. Multiple resistance mechanisms have been proposed but thus far no attempts to block this in glioma has been made. (2) Methods: Here, we have conducted a pharmacological synergy screen in glioma cells to search for possible combination treatments augmenting the apoptotic response to BET inhibitors. We first used HMBA, a compound that was developed as a differentiation therapy four decades ago but more recently was shown to primarily inhibit BET bromodomain proteins. Data was also generated using other BET inhibitors. (3) Results: In the synergy screen, we discovered that several MEK inhibitors can enhance apoptosis in response to HMBA in rat and human glioma cells in vitro as well as in vivo xenografts. The combination is not unique to HMBA but also other BET inhibitors such as JQ1 and I-BET-762 can synergize with MEK inhibitors. (4) Conclusions: Our findings validate a combination therapy previously demonstrated to exhibit anti-cancer activities in multiple other tumour types but which appears to have been lost in translation to the clinic.

pCREB expression in human tissues from epilepsy surgery

OBJECTIVE

Activity-dependent changes have been reported in animal models and in human epileptic specimens and could potentially be used as tissue biomarkers to evaluate the propensity of a tissue to generate seizure activity. In this context, cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) activation was specifically reported in human epileptic foci and related mainly to interictal spike activity. To get further insights into CREB activation in human epilepsy, we analyzed pCREB expression on brain tissue samples from patients who underwent surgery for drug-resistant focal epilepsy, correlating this expression with intracranial stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG) recording in a subgroup.

METHODS

Neocortical specimens from patients with neuropathological diagnosis of no lesion (cryptogenic), malformations of cortical development,mainly type II focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), and hippocampi with and without hippocampal sclerosis have been analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Peritumoral cortex from non-epileptic patients and autoptic samples were used as controls, whereas rat brains were used to test possible loss of pCREB antigenicity due to fixation procedures and postmortem delay.

RESULTS

pCREB was consistently expressed in layer II neuronal nuclei in regions with normal cortical lamination both in epileptic and non-epileptic surgical tissues. In patients with SEEG recordings, this anatomical pattern was unrelated to the presence of interictal spike activity. Conversely, in the core of type II FCD, as well as in other developmental malformations, pCREB was scattered without any laminar specificity. Furthermore, quantitative data did not reveal significant differences between epileptic and non-epileptic tissues, except for an increased immunoreactivity in the core of type IIB FCD lesion related mainly to reactive glial and balloon cells.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present data argue against the reliability of pCREB immunohistochemistry as a marker of epileptic focus but underscores its layer-related expression, suggesting a potential application in the study of malformations of cortical development, a wide range of diseases arising from perturbations of normal brain development.

Crosstalk between DNA methylation and histone acetylation triggers GDNF high transcription in glioblastoma cells

BACKGROUND

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is highly expressed in glioblastoma (GBM) and blocking its expression can inhibit the initiation and development of GBM. GDNF is a dual promoter gene, and the promoter II with two enhancers and two silencers plays a major role in transcription initiation. We had previously reported that histone hyperacetylation and DNA hypermethylation in GDNF promoter II region result in high transcription of GDNF in GBM cells, but the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we investigated whether these modifications synergistically regulate high GDNF transcription in GBM.

RESULTS

Cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) expression and phosphorylation at S133 were significantly increased in human GBM tissues and GBM cell lines (U251 and U343). In U251 GBM cells, high expressed CREB significantly enhanced GDNF transcription and promoter II activity. CREB regulated GDNF transcription via the cyclic AMP response elements (CREs) in enhancer II and silencer II of GDNF promoter II. However, the two CREs played opposite regulatory roles. Interestingly, hypermethylation of CRE in silencer II occurred in GBM tissues and cells which led to decreased and increased phosphorylated CREB (pCREB) binding to silencer II and enhancer II, respectively. Moreover, pCREB recruited CREB binding protein (CBP) with histone acetylase activity to the CRE of GDNF enhancer II, thereby increasing histone H3 acetylation and RNA polymerase II recruitment there and at the transcription start site (TSS), and promoted GDNF high transcription in U251 cells. The results indicated that high GDNF transcription was attributable to DNA hypermethylation in CRE of GDNF silencer II increasing pCREB binding to CRE in enhancer II, which enhanced CBP recruitment, histone H3 acetylation, and RNA polymerase II recruitment there and at the TSS.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that pCREB-induced crosstalk between DNA methylation and histone acetylation at the GDNF promoter II enhanced GDNF high transcription, providing a new perspective for GBM treatment.

Cyclin D degradation by E3 ligases in cancer progression and treatment

D cyclins include three isoforms: D1, D2, and D3. D cyclins heterodimerize with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) to form kinase complexes that can phosphorylate and inactivate Rb. Inactivation of Rb triggers the activation of E2F transcription factors, which in turn regulate the expression of genes whose products drive cell cycle progression. Because D-type cyclins function as mitogenic sensors that link growth factor signaling directly with G₁ phase progression, it is not surprising that D cyclin accumulation is dysregulated in a variety of human tumors. Elevated expression of D cyclins results from gene amplification, increased gene transcription and protein translation, decreased microRNA levels, and inefficiency or loss of ubiquitylation-mediated protein degradation. This review focuses on the clinicopathological importance of D cyclins, how dysregulation of Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS) contributes to the overexpression of D cyclins, and the therapeutic potential through targeting D cyclin-related machinery in human tumors.

Potential implications of hydrogen peroxide in the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of gliomas

Glioma is the most common type of primary brain tumor, and it has a high mortality rate. Currently, there are only a few therapeutic approaches for gliomas, and their effects are unsatisfactory. Therefore, uncovering the pathogenesis and exploring more therapeutic strategies for the treatment of gliomas are urgently needed to overcome the ongoing challenges. Cellular redox imbalance has been shown to be associated with the initiation and progression of gliomas. Among reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is considered the most suitable for redox signaling and is a potential candidate as a key molecule that determines the fate of cancer cells. In this review, we discuss the potential cellular and molecular roles of H₂O₂ in gliomagenesis and explore the potential implications of H₂O₂ in radiotherapy and chemotherapy and in the ongoing challenges of current glioma treatment. Moreover, we evaluate H₂O₂ as a potential redox sensor and potential driver molecule of nanocatalytic therapeutic strategies for glioma treatment.

Open Data for Differential Network Analysis in Glioma

The complexity of cancer diseases demands bioinformatic techniques and translational research based on big data and personalized medicine. Open data enables researchers to accelerate cancer studies, save resources and foster collaboration. Several tools and programming approaches are available for analyzing data, including annotation, clustering, comparison and extrapolation, merging, enrichment, functional association and statistics. We exploit openly available data via cancer gene expression analysis, we apply refinement as well as enrichment analysis via gene ontology and conclude with graph-based visualization of involved protein interaction networks as a basis for signaling. The different databases allowed for the construction of huge networks or specified ones consisting of high-confidence interactions only. Several genes associated to glioma were isolated via a network analysis from top hub nodes as well as from an outlier analysis. The latter approach highlights a mitogen-activated protein kinase next to a member of histondeacetylases and a protein phosphatase as genes uncommonly associated with glioma. Cluster analysis from top hub nodes lists several identified glioma-associated gene products to function within protein complexes, including epidermal growth factors as well as cell cycle proteins or RAS proto-oncogenes. By using selected exemplary tools and open-access resources for cancer research and differential network analysis, we highlight disturbed signaling components in brain cancer subtypes of glioma.

CDK5 Inhibition Resolves PKA/cAMP-Independent Activation of CREB1 Signaling in Glioma Stem Cells

Cancer stem cells promote neoplastic growth, in part by deregulating asymmetric cell division and enhancing self-renewal. To uncover mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets in glioma stem cell (GSC) self-renewal, we performed a genetic suppressor screen for kinases to reverse the tumor phenotype of our Drosophila brain tumor model and identified dCdk5 as a critical regulator. CDK5, the human ortholog of dCdk5 (79% identity), is aberrantly activated in GBMs and tightly aligned with both chromosome 7 gains and stem cell markers affecting tumor-propagation. Our investigation revealed that pharmaceutical inhibition of CDK5 prevents GSC self-renewal in vitro and in xenografted tumors, at least partially by suppressing CREB1 activation independently of PKA/cAMP. Finally, our TCGA GBM data analysis revealed that CDK5, stem cell, and asymmetric cell division markers segregate within non-mesenchymal patient clusters, which may indicate preferential dependence on CDK5 signaling and sensitivity to its inhibition in this group.

Gain-Of-Function E76K-Mutant SHP2 Promotes Cell Proliferation, Metastasis, And Tumor Growth In Glioblastoma Through Activation Of The ERK/CREB Pathway

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of gain-of-function (GOF) E76K-mutant Src homology-2 domain containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 (SHP2) on the biological behaviors of glioblastoma (GBM) cells, and explore the molecular mechanisms of GBM progression.

Methods

Firstly, a negative control vector and vectors overexpressing SHP2 and E76K-mutant SHP2 were transduced into GBM cells (U87 and A172) using a lentivirus. The effect of GOF-mutant SHP2 on proliferation was measured using the MTT assay, flow cytometry, colony formation assay, and soft agar assay. Moreover, the migration and invasion of GBM cells were determined through the transwell assay. Related proteins of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/cAMP response element binding protein (ERK/CREB) pathway were detected by Western blotting analysis. A xenograft model was established to confirm the tumor-promoting effect of GOF-mutant SHP2 in vivo. Finally, ERK was inhibited using a mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK kinase inhibitor (U0126) to further explore the molecular mechanism of GOF-mutant SHP2 affecting GBM cells.

Results

After transduction, the expression of SHP2 in the SHP2-mutant and SHP2-overexpression groups was higher than that observed in the control and normal groups. Our data indicated that GOF-mutant SHP2 enhanced the abilities of GBM cells for proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, and promoted tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, the ERK/CREB pathway was activated, and the levels of relevant proteins were increased in the SHP2-mutant group. Furthermore, following inhibition of ERK in the GOF-SHP2 mutant group, the activation of CREB was also depressed, and the malignant biological behaviors were weakened accordingly.

Conclusion

The GOF-mutant SHP2 promoted GBM cell proliferation, metastasis, and tumor growth through the ERK/CREB pathway, providing a promising target for the treatment of GBM.

PI3K activation in neural stem cells drives tumorigenesis which can be ameliorated by targeting the cAMP response element binding protein

Background

Hyperactivation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling is common in cancers, but the precise role of the pathway in glioma biology remains to be determined. Some understanding of PI3K signaling mechanisms in brain cancer comes from studies on neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs), where signals transmitted via the PI3K pathway cooperate with other intracellular pathways and downstream transcription factors to regulate critical cell functions.

Methods

To investigate the role of the PI3K pathway in glioma initiation and development, we generated a mouse model targeting the inducible expression of a PIK3CAH1047A oncogenic mutant and deletion of the PI3K negative regulator, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), to NSPCs.

Results

Expression of a Pik3caH1047A was sufficient to generate tumors with oligodendroglial features, but simultaneous loss of PTEN was required for the development of invasive, high-grade glioma. Pik3caH1047A-PTEN mutant NSPCs exhibited enhanced neurosphere formation which correlated with increased Wnt signaling, while loss of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in Pik3caH1047A-Pten mutant tumors led to longer symptom-free survival in mice.

Conclusion

Taken together, our findings present a novel mouse model for glioma demonstrating that the PI3K pathway is important for initiation of tumorigenesis and that disruption of downstream CREB signaling attenuates tumor expansion.

Cripto-1 overexpression in U87 glioblastoma cells activates MAPK, focal adhesion and ErbB pathways

Discovering the underlying signalling pathways that control cancer cells is crucial for understanding their biology and to develop therapeutic regimens. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the effect of Cripto-1 on pathways controlling glioblastoma (GBM) cell function. To this end, changes in protein phosphorylation in cells overexpressing Cripto-1 were analysed using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis tool, as well as the Uniprot resource to identify the functions of Cripto-1-dependent phosphorylated proteins. This revealed that proteins affected by Cripto-1 overexpression are involved in multiple signalling pathways. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), focal adhesion (FA) and ErbB pathways were found to be enriched by Cripto-1 overexpression with 35, 27 and 24% of pathway proteins phosphorylated, respectively. These pathways control important cellular processes in cancer cells that correlate with the observed functional changes described in earlier studies. More specifically, Cripto-1 may regulate MAPK cellular proliferation and survival pathways by activating epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR; Ser1070) or fibroblast GFR1 (Tyr654). Its effect on cellular proliferation and survival could be mediated through Src (Tyr418), FA kinase (FAK; Tyr396), p130CAS (Tyr410), c-Jun (Ser63), Paxillin (PXN; Tyr118) and BCL2 (Thr69) of the FA pathway. Cripto-1 may also control cellular motility and invasion by activating Src (Tyr418), FAK (Tyr396) and PXN (Tyr118) of the FA pathway. However, Cripto-1 regulation of cellular invasion and migration might be not limited to the FA pathway, it may also control these cellular mechanisms through signalling via EGFR (Ser1070)/Her2 (Tyr877) to mediate the Src (Tyr418) and FAK (Tyr396) cascade activation of the ErbB signalling pathway. Angiogenesis could be mediated by Cripto-1 by activating c-Jun (Ser63) through EGFR (Ser1070)/Her2 (Tyr877) of the ErbB pathway. To conclude, the present study has augmented and enriched our current knowledge on the crucial roles that Cripto-1 may play in controlling different cellular mechanisms in GBM cells.

FBXO17 promotes cell proliferation through activation of Akt in lung adenocarcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, mediated in part, by ubiquitin E3 ligases, is critical in regulating cellular processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. FBXO17 was recently identified as an F-box protein that targets glycogen synthase kinase-3β to the E3 ubiquitin ligase protein complex for polyubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Here, we identified that in several lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, FBXO17 cellular protein was detected at relatively high levels, as was expression in a subset of lung cancers. Hence, we investigated the effects of FBXO17 on cell proliferation.

METHODS

Single cell RNA sequencing analysis was performed on a resection of a non-small cell lung carcinoma tumor to examine FBXO17 expression. Multiple lung cancer cell lines were immunoblotted, and The Cancer Genome Atlas was analyzed to determine if FBXO17 expression was amplified in a subset of lung cancers. A549 cells were transfected with empty vector or FBXO17-V5 plasmid and immunoblotted for Akt pathway mediators including PDK1, ERK1/2, ribosomal protein S6, and CREB. Cell proliferation and viability were analyzed by trypan blue exclusion, BrdU incorporation and an MTS-based fluorometric assay. Studies were also performed after transfecting with sifbxo17. Samples were used in an RNA microarray analysis to evaluate pathways affected by reduced FBXO17 gene expression.

RESULTS

We observed that overexpression of FBXO17 increased A549 cell proliferation coupled with Akt activation. Ectopically expressed FBXO17 also increased ERK1/2 kinase activation and increased phosphorylation of RPS6, a downstream target of mTOR. We also observed an increased number of cells in S-phase and increased metabolic activity of lung epithelial cells expressing FBXO17. FBXO17 knockdown reduced Akt Ser 473 phosphorylation approaching statistical significance with no effect on Thr 308. However, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, cellular metabolic activity, and overall cell numbers were reduced. When we analyzed RNA profiles of A549 cells with reduced FBXO17 expression, we observed downregulation of several genes associated with cell proliferation and metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

These data support a role for FBXO17 abundance, when left unchecked, in regulating cell proliferation and survival through modulation of Akt and ERK kinase activation. The data raise a potential role for the F-box subunit in modulating tumorigenesis.

Apoptosis: Activation and Inhibition in Health and Disease

There are many types of cell death, each involving multiple and complex molecular events. Cell death can occur accidentally when exposed to extreme physical, chemical, or mechanical conditions, or it can also be regulated, which involves a genetically coded complex machinery to carry out the process. Apoptosis is an example of the latter. Apoptotic cell death can be triggered through different intracellular signalling pathways that lead to morphological changes and eventually cell death. This is a normal and biological process carried out during maturation, remodelling, growth, and development in tissues. To maintain tissue homeostasis, regulatory, and inhibitory mechanisms must control apoptosis. Paradoxically, these same pathways are utilized during infection by distinct intracellular microorganisms to evade recognition by the immune system and therefore survive, reproduce and develop. In cancer, neoplastic cells inhibit apoptosis, thus allowing their survival and increasing their capability to invade different tissues and organs. The purpose of this work is to review the generalities of the molecular mechanisms and signalling pathways involved in apoptosis induction and inhibition. Additionally, we compile the current evidence of apoptosis modulation during cancer and Leishmania infection as a model of apoptosis regulation by an intracellular microorganism.

Allopregnanolone Alters the Gene Expression Profile of Human Glioblastoma Cells

Glioblastomas (GBM) are the most frequent and aggressive brain tumors. In these malignancies, progesterone (P4) promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion. The P4 metabolite allopregnanolone (3α-THP) similarly promotes cell proliferation in the U87 human GBM cell line. Here, we evaluated global changes in gene expression of U87 cells treated with 3α-THP, P4, and the 5α-reductase inhibitor, finasteride (F). 3α-THP modified the expression of 137 genes, while F changed 90. Besides, both steroids regulated the expression of 69 genes. After performing an over-representation analysis of gene ontology terms, we selected 10 genes whose products are cytoskeleton components, transcription factors, and proteins involved in the maintenance of DNA stability and replication to validate their expression changes by RT-qPCR. 3α-THP up-regulated six genes, two of them were also up-regulated by F. Two genes were up-regulated by P4 alone, however, such an effect was blocked by F when cells were treated with both steroids. The remaining genes were regulated by the combined treatments of 3α-THP + F or P4 + F. An in-silico analysis revealed that promoters of the six up-regulated genes by 3α-THP possess cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) responsive elements along with CCAAT/Enhancer binding protein alpha (CEBPα) binding sites. These findings suggest that P4 and 3α-THP regulate different sets of genes that participate in the growth of GBMs.

MiR-433-3p suppresses cell growth and enhances chemosensitivity by targeting CREB in human glioma

Previous studies reported that miR-433 exerts function widely in human tumorigenesis and development. Here, we further investigate the potential role of miR-433 in glioma. Quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated that miR-433-3p and miR-433-5p were low expressed in glioma tissues and cell lines. Functional studies suggested that the overexpression of miR-433-3p suppressed proliferation, induced apoptosis and inhibited invasion and migration of human glioma cells. But the growth and metastasis of glioma cells were not significantly influenced by overexpression of miR-433-5p. In a xenograft model, we also showed that miR-433-3p had an inhibitory effect on the growth of glioma. Bioinformatics coupled with luciferase and western blot assays revealed that CREB is a direct target of miR-433-3p, and the overexpression of CREB can rescue the phenotype changes induced by miR-433-3p overexpression. Besides, miR-433-3p could increase chemosensitivity of glioma to temozolomide by targeting CREB in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results suggest that miR-433-3p may function as a potential marker in diagnostic and therapeutic target for glioma.

Lung cancer-derived galectin-1 contributes to cancer associated fibroblast-mediated cancer progression and immune suppression through TDO2/kynurenine axis

Communication between cancer cells and their microenvironment plays an important role in cancer development, but the precise mechanisms by which cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) impact anti-cancer immunity and cancer progression in lung cancer are poorly understood. Here, we report that lung fibroblasts when activated by lung cancer cells produce tryptophan metabolite kynurenine (Kyn) that inhibits dendritic cells' differentiation and induces cancer growth as well as migration. We identified TDO2 (tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase) as the main enzyme expressed in fibroblasts capable of tryptophan metabolism. Mechanistically, condition medium of CAF or exogenous kynurenine stimulated AKT, with no lysine 1 (WNK1) and cAMP response element-bindingprotein (CREB) phosphorylation in lung cancer cells. Inhibition of the AKT/CREB pathway prevents cancer proliferation, while inhibition of the AKT/ WNK1 reverted epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and cancer migration induced by kynurenine. Moreover, we also demonstrate that lung cancer-derived galectin-1 contributes to the upregulation of TDO2 in CAF through an AKT-dependent pathway. Immunohistochemical analysis of lung cancer surgical specimens revealed increased TDO2 expression in the fibroblasts adjacent to the cancer. Furthermore, in vivo studies showed that administration of TDO2 inhibitor significantly improves DCs function and T cell response, and decreases tumor metastasis in mice. Taken together, our data identify the feedback loop, consisting of cancer-derived galectin-1 and CAF-producing kynurenine, that sustains lung cancer progression. These findings suggest that targeting this pathway may be a promising therapeutic strategy.

Cyclic AMP responsive element-binding protein promotes renal cell carcinoma proliferation probably via the expression of spindle and kinetochore-associated protein 2

Emerging evidence shows that the aberrantly expressed cyclic AMP responsive element-binding protein (CREB) is associated with tumor development and progression in several cancers. Spindle and kinetochore-associated protein 2 (SKA2) is essential for regulating the progress of mitosis. In this study, we evaluate in vitro and in vivo the functional relationship between CREB and SKA2 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Suppressing and replenishing CREB levels were used to manipulate SKA2 expression, observing the effects on RCC cell lines. Computational prediction and ChIP assay identified that CREB targeted ska2 by binding its CRE sequence in the human genome. Overexpression of CREB reversed the inhibited cell growth following siSKA2 treatment, and reduced the number of cells holding in mitosis. Decreased expression of CREB suppressed RCC cell growth and xenograft tumor formation, accompanied by reduced expression of SKA2. In RCC tumor samples from patients, mRNA for SKA2 were plotted near those of CREB in each sample, with significantly increased immunohistochemical staining of higher SKA2 and CREB in the higher TNM stages. The study adds evidence that CREB, a tumor oncogene, promotes RCC proliferation. It probably achieves this by increasing SKA2 expression.

Vitis labruscana leaf extract ameliorates scopolamine-induced impairments with activation of Akt, ERK and CREB in mice

BACKGROUND

Grapes are among the most widely consumed plants and are used as a folk medicine. Vitis species have been traditionally used as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and memory-enhancing agents, but, their biological activities of discarded grape leaves are not completely understood.

PURPOSE

We investigated the effects of alcoholic aqueous leaf extract of Vitis labruscana (LEVL) in a mouse model of memory impairment and tried to ascertain its mechanism. We also evaluated its effects in SH-SY5Y cells.

METHODS

LEVL (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) was administered to ICR mice once daily for 7 days. Memory impairment was induced with intraperitoneal scopolamine injections (1 mg/kg) and measured with the Y-maze test and a passive avoidance task. LEVL-induced signaling was evaluated in SH-SY5Y cells and mouse hippocampi.

RESULTS

We first identified quercetin-3-O-glucuronide as LEVL's major component. We then showed that LEVL promoted phosphorylation of Akt, extracellular regulated kinase (ERK), and cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) and proliferation of SH-SY5Y cells. Oral LEVL administration (100 mg/kg) for 7 days significantly reversed scopolamine-induced reductions of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test and scopolamine-induced shortening of latency times in the passive avoidance task's retention trial. Consistent with the cell experiment results, LEVL restored scopolamine-decreased phosphorylation of Akt, ERK, and CREB and scopolamine-reduced expression of brain-derived neuroprotective factor expression in mouse hippocampi.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that LEVL promotes phosphorylation of Akt, ERK, and CREB in the hippocampus and ameliorates scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice.

NDRG4 promotes myogenesis via Akt/CREB activation

N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 4 (NDRG4) plays an important role in biological processes and pathogenesis, but its function in muscle development is unclear. In this study, we investigated the function of the NDRG4 gene in the regulation of myogenic differentiation. NDRG4 expression is upregulated during muscle regeneration and C2C12 myoblast differentiation. Gain and loss of function studies revealed that NDRG4 dramatically promotes expression of myogenic differentiation factor (MyoD), myogenin (MyoG), and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) genes and myotube formation. Mechanistically, the binding of NDRG4 to carboxyl-terminal modulator protein (CTMP) abates the interaction of CTMP and protein kinase B (Akt) and increases the phosphorylation of Akt and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), which leads to increased expression of myogenic genes. Our results reveal that NDRG4 promotes myogenic differentiation via Akt/CREB activation.

Andrographolide suppresses the migratory ability of human glioblastoma multiforme cells by targeting ERK1/2-mediated matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) can be a fatal tumor because of difficulties in treating the related metastasis. Andrographolide is the bioactive component of the Andrographis paniculata. Andrographolide possesses the anti-inflammatory activity and inhibits the growth of various cancers; however, its effect on GBM cancer motility remains largely unknown. In this study, we examined the antimetastatic properties of andrographolide in human GBM cells. Our results revealed that andrographolide inhibited the invasion and migration abilities of GBM8401 and U251 cells. Furthermore, andrographolide inhibited matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activity and expression. Real-time PCR and promoter activity assays indicated that andrographolide inhibited MMP-2 expression at the transcriptional level. Such inhibitory effects were associated with the suppression of CREB DNA-binding activity and CREB expression. Mechanistically, andrographolide inhibited the cell motility of GBM8401 cells through the extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 pathway, and the blocking of the ERK 1/2 pathway could reverse MMP-2-mediated cell motility. In conclusion, CREB is a crucial target of andrographolide for suppressing MMP-2-mediated cell motility in GBM cells. Therefore, a combination of andrographolide and an ERK inhibitor might be a good strategy for preventing GBM metastasis.

Angelica polysaccharides inhibit the growth and promote the apoptosis of U251 glioma cells in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Angelica sinensis (Oliv) Diels (Apiaceae) is a traditional medicine that has been used for more than 2000 years in China. It exhibits various therapeutic effects including neuroprotective, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Angelica polysaccharides (APs), bioactive constituents of Angelica have been shown to be responsible for these effects; however, the utility of APs for the treatment of glioma and their mechanism of action remain to be elucidated.

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of APs on a glioma cell line and their molecular mechanism of action.

STUDY DESIGN

U251 cells were utilized to confirm the effects of APs on glioma.

METHODS

The human glioblastoma cell line U251 was utilized for both in vitro and in vivo models, in which we tested the effects of APs. Flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, western blotting, and MTT assays were used to elucidate the effects of APs on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that APs significantly inhibited the growth and proliferation of U251 cells and induced their apoptosis. Furthermore, APs effectively reduced the expression of several cell cycle regulators: cyclins D1, B, and E. The apoptosis suppressor protein Bcl-2 was also downregulated, and the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 increased. Additionally, APs inhibited the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling pathway and stimulated the expression of E-cadherin, thus prohibiting cell growth.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results indicate that APs attenuate the tumorigenicity of glioma cells and promote their apoptosis by suppressing the TGF-β signaling pathway. The present study therefore provides evidence of the inhibitory effects of APs against glioma progression, and proposes their potential application as alternative therapeutic agents for glioma.