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Fu Z, Qi Y, Xue LF, Xu YX, Yue J, Zhao JZ, Li C, Xiao W. LAMA5: A new pathogenic gene for non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Biomed J 2024; 47:100627. [PMID: 37390938 PMCID: PMC10957387 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2023.100627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the effect of LAMA5 on palatal development in mice. METHODS The palatine process of C57BL/6 J fetal mice on the embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) was cultured in vitro via the rotating culture method. The LAMA5-shRNA adenovirus vector was constructed, then transfected into the palatal process of E13.5 for 48 h in vitro. A fluorescence microscope was used to visualize the fusion of palates. The expression of LAMA5 was also detected. The expression of ki67, cyclin D1, caspase 3, E-cadherin, vimentin and SHH signaling pathway-related signaling factors in the blank control group, the negative control group, and the LAMA5 interference group were detected after virus transfection. RESULTS The bilateral palates in the LAMA5 interference group were not fused after virus transfection. PCR and WB showed that the mRNA and protein expressions of LAMA5 were decreased in the LAMA5 interference group. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expressions of ki67, cyclin D1 and gli1 were decreased in the LAMA5 interference group, while the mRNA and protein expressions of caspase 3 were increased. However, the mRNA and protein expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, Shh and ptch1 did not significantly change in the LAMA5 interference group. CONCLUSIONS LAMA5 silencing causes cleft palate by inhibiting the proliferation of mouse palatal cells and promoting apoptosis, which may not be involved in EMT. LAMA5 silencing can also cause cleft palate by interfering with the SHH signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Fu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ling-Fa Xue
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yao-Xiang Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jin Yue
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jin-Ze Zhao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Cong Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Wenlin Xiao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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2
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Zeng LH, Tang C, Yao M, He Q, Qv M, Ren Q, Xu Y, Shen T, Gu W, Xu C, Zou C, Ji X, Wu X, Wang J. Phosphorylation of human glioma-associated oncogene 1 on Ser937 regulates Sonic Hedgehog signaling in medulloblastoma. Nat Commun 2024; 15:987. [PMID: 38307877 PMCID: PMC10837140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45315-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling and its effector transcriptional factor GLI1 are essential for oncogenesis of SHH-dependent medulloblastoma (MBSHH) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Here, we show that SHH inactivates p38α (MAPK14) in a smoothened-dependent manner, conversely, p38α directly phosphorylates GLI1 on Ser937/Ser941 (human/mouse) to induce GLI1's proteasomal degradation and negates the transcription of SHH signaling. As a result, Gli1S941E loss-of-function knock-in significantly reduces the incidence and severity of smoothened-M2 transgene-induced spontaneous MBSHH, whereas Gli1S941A gain-of-function knock-in phenocopies Gli1 transgene in causing BCC-like proliferation in skin. Correspondingly, phospho-Ser937-GLI1, a destabilized form of GLI1, positively correlates to the overall survival rate of children with MBSHH. Together, these findings indicate that SHH-induced p38α inactivation and subsequent GLI1 dephosphorylation and stabilization in controlling SHH signaling and may provide avenues for future interventions of MBSHH and BCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Hui Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang, Province, Hangzhou City University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310015, China.
| | - Chao Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Minli Yao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Qiangqiang He
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Meiyu Qv
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang, Province, Hangzhou City University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310015, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qianlei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang, Province, Hangzhou City University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Yana Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Tingyu Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Weizhong Gu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Chengyun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang, Province, Hangzhou City University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310015, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Chaochun Zou
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xing Ji
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang, Province, Hangzhou City University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310015, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ximei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China.
| | - Jirong Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Geriatrics, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, 310030, China.
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Baran B, Kosieradzka K, Skarzynska W, Niewiadomski P. MRCKα/β positively regulates Gli protein activity. Cell Signal 2023; 107:110666. [PMID: 37019250 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are key regulatory events for the majority of signaling pathways. Transcription factors are often phosphorylated on multiple residues, which regulates their trafficking, stability, or transcriptional activity. Gli proteins, transcription factors that respond to the Hedgehog pathway, are regulated by phosphorylation, but the sites and the kinases involved have been only partially described. We identified three novel kinases: MRCKα, MRCKβ, and MAP4K5 which physically interact with Gli proteins and directly phosphorylate Gli2 on multiple sites. We established that MRCKα/β kinases regulate Gli proteins, which impacts the transcriptional output of the Hedgehog pathway. We showed that double knockout of MRCKα/β affects Gli2 ciliary and nuclear localization and reduces Gli2 binding to the Gli1 promoter. Our research fills a critical gap in our understanding of the regulation of Gli proteins by describing their activation mechanisms through phosphorylation.
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The role of Hedgehog and Notch signaling pathway in cancer. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:44. [PMID: 36517618 PMCID: PMC9751255 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00099-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch and Hedgehog signaling are involved in cancer biology and pathology, including the maintenance of tumor cell proliferation, cancer stem-like cells, and the tumor microenvironment. Given the complexity of Notch signaling in tumors, its role as both a tumor promoter and suppressor, and the crosstalk between pathways, the goal of developing clinically safe, effective, tumor-specific Notch-targeted drugs has remained intractable. Drugs developed against the Hedgehog signaling pathway have affirmed definitive therapeutic effects in basal cell carcinoma; however, in some contexts, the challenges of tumor resistance and recurrence leap to the forefront. The efficacy is very limited for other tumor types. In recent years, we have witnessed an exponential increase in the investigation and recognition of the critical roles of the Notch and Hedgehog signaling pathways in cancers, and the crosstalk between these pathways has vast space and value to explore. A series of clinical trials targeting signaling have been launched continually. In this review, we introduce current advances in the understanding of Notch and Hedgehog signaling and the crosstalk between pathways in specific tumor cell populations and microenvironments. Moreover, we also discuss the potential of targeting Notch and Hedgehog for cancer therapy, intending to promote the leap from bench to bedside.
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5
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Si Y, Li L, Zhang W, Liu Q, Liu B. GANT61 exerts anticancer cell and anticancer stem cell capacity in colorectal cancer by blocking the Wnt/β‑catenin and Notch signalling pathways. Oncol Rep 2022; 48:182. [PMID: 36069229 PMCID: PMC9478957 DOI: 10.3892/or.2022.8397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to assess the anticancer cell and anticancer stem cell (CSC) effects of GANT61, and its regulatory influence on the Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signalling pathways in colorectal cancer (CRC). HT-29 and HCT-116 cells were treated with 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20 or 40 µM GANT61, after which relative cell viability and the expression of Gli1, β-catenin and Notch1, as well as the percentage of CD133+ cells, were detected. Subsequently, HT-29/HCT-116 cells and CSCs were treated with 20 µM GANT61, 10 mM of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway agonist HLY78, and 30 mM of the Notch pathway agonist JAG1 (alone or in combination), which was followed by the assessment of cell viability and apoptosis. In both cell lines, GANT61 reduced relative cell viability in a time- and dose-dependent manner, inhibited Gli1, β-catenin and Notch1 expression, and decreased the percentage of CD133+ cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, HLY78 and JAG1 were both found to improve the relative viability, while downregulating the apoptosis of untreated and GANT61-treated HT-29 and HCT-116 cells. Moreover, Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signalling pathway activity were upregulated in CSCs isolated from HT-29 and HCT-116 cells, compared with the associated control groups. GANT61 also reduced the viability of HT-29 and HCT-116 cells and increased apoptosis, whereas HLY78 and JAG1 treatment resulted in the opposite effect. Moreover, both HLY78 and JAG1 attenuated the effects of GANT61 on cellular viability and apoptosis. In conclusion, GANT61 was found to effectively eliminate cancer cells and CSCs by blocking the Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signalling pathways in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Si
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, P.R. China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, P.R. China
| | - Qiling Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, P.R. China
| | - Baochi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, P.R. China
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Park HB, Baek KH. E3 ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes regulating the MAPK signaling pathway in cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188736. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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7
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Wozniak M, Czyz M. The Functional Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194848. [PMID: 34638331 PMCID: PMC8508152 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer, with increasing incidence worldwide. The molecular events that drive melanoma development and progression have been extensively studied, resulting in significant improvements in diagnostics and therapeutic approaches. However, a high drug resistance to targeted therapies and adverse effects of immunotherapies are still a major challenge in melanoma treatment. Therefore, the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of melanomagenesis and cancer response to treatment is of great importance. Recently, many studies have revealed the close association of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with the development of many cancers, including melanoma. These RNA molecules are able to regulate a plethora of crucial cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, migration, invasion and apoptosis through diverse mechanisms, and even slight dysregulation of their expression may lead to tumorigenesis. lncRNAs are able to bind to protein complexes, DNA and RNAs, affecting their stability, activity, and localization. They can also regulate gene expression in the nucleus. Several functions of lncRNAs are context-dependent. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding the involvement of lncRNAs in melanoma. Their possible role as prognostic markers of melanoma response to treatment and in resistance to therapy is also discussed.
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8
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Xiong A, Li L, Li W, Yu J, Lian Z, Zhang Z, Luo R. WW45 inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:2617-2625. [PMID: 34017421 PMCID: PMC8129319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
WW45 is a recently-discovered tumor suppressor gene. Overexpression of WW45 was found to significantly weaken proliferation and colony formation in a human breast cancer cell line, but the molecular mechanism of WW45's inhibitiory effect on proliferation was uncertain. It is a key transcription factor of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. In particular, the mechanism of Gli1's upstream proteins in regulating Gli1's nuclear import was not clear.We collected different breast cancer cell lines and detected WW45 and Gli1 expression by western blot. Gli1 expression was detected after WW45 was overexpressed in breast cancer cells. Gli1 and WW45 were transfected into breast cancer cells, and co-immunoprecipitation was used to detect whether the two proteins had physical interaction. We confirmed Gli1 blocks WW45-induced growth inhibition and colony formation in ZR-75-30 cells through cell functional experiments. Expression of WW45 negatively correlated with Gli1 expression in breast cancer cells. WW45 affected Gli1 intracellular localization though ww-PPxY/PsP interaction. Gli1 blocked WW45-induced growth inhibition and colony formation in ZR-75-30 cells. Our results strongly suggest that expression of WW45 negatively correlates with Gli1 expression in breast cancer cells. direct physical interaction occurred between WW45 and Gli1, and WW45 affected Gli1 intracellular localization though WW-PPxY/PsP interaction. Furthermore, Gli1 blocked WW45-induced breast cancer cell growth inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwen Xiong
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengjun Lian
- Department of Oncology, Chest Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionXinjiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ziyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Jiangxi, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health HospitalNanchang 330006, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongcheng Luo
- Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Cancer Institute, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhou 510515, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
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Tang R, Liu X, Wang W, Hua J, Xu J, Liang C, Meng Q, Liu J, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Identification of the Roles of a Stemness Index Based on mRNA Expression in the Prognosis and Metabolic Reprograming of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:643465. [PMID: 33912458 PMCID: PMC8071957 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.643465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are widely thought to contribute to the dismal prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). CSCs share biological features with adult stem cells, such as longevity, self-renewal capacity, differentiation, drug resistance, and the requirement for a niche; these features play a decisive role in cancer progression. A prominent characteristic of PDAC is metabolic reprogramming, which provides sufficient nutrients to support rapid tumor cell growth. However, whether PDAC stemness is correlated with metabolic reprogramming remains unknown. Method RNA sequencing data of PDAC, including read counts and fragments per kilobase of transcript per million mapped reads (FPKM), were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas-Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-PAAD) database. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to calculate the relative activities of metabolic pathways in each PDAC sample. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to validate the expression levels of genes of interest. Results The overall survival (OS) of patients with high mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) values was significantly worse than that of their counterparts with low mRNAsi values (P = 0.003). This survival disadvantage was independent of baseline clinical characteristics. Gene ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis and GSEA showed that the differentially expressed genes between patients with high and low mRNAsi values were mainly enriched in oncogenic and metabolic pathways. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed 8 independent gene modules that were significantly associated with mRNAsi and 12 metabolic pathways. Unsupervised clustering based on the key genes in each module identified two PDAC subgroups characterized by different mRNAsi values and metabolic activities. Univariate Cox regression analysis identified 14 genes beneficial to OS from 95 key genes selected from the eight independent gene modules from WGCNA. Among them, MAGEH1, MAP3K3, and PODN were downregulated in both pancreatic tissues and cell lines. Conclusion The present study showed that PDAC samples with high mRNAsi values exhibited aberrant activation of multiple metabolic pathways, and the patients from whom these samples were obtained had a poor prognosis. Future studies are expected to investigate the underlying mechanism based on the crosstalk between PDAC stemness and metabolic rewiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Tang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomeng Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.,Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Zhu K, Wang L, Zhang X, Sun H, Chen T, Sun C, Zhang F, Zhu Y, Yu X, He X, Su Y. LncRNA HCP5 promotes neuroblastoma proliferation by regulating miR-186-5p/MAP3K2 signal axis. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:778-787. [PMID: 33189302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common solid tumor in children. Studies showed that long-chain noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HCP5 played an important role in tumorigenesis, but its role in NB remained unclear. This study aims to determine the role of HCP5 in NB and its possible molecular mechanism. METHODS We analyzed the expression levels of miRNA-186-5p and HCP5 in neuroblastoma and neuroblastoma cell lines SHSY-5Y, Kelly, NBL-S and SK-N-AS, and explored their roles. RESULTS We found that the HCP5 expression was up-regulated in NB tissues and cells. The higher the HCP5 expression in NB cells, the stronger the ability of clone formation. Down regulation of the HCP5 expression inhibited the proliferation of NB cells and the growth of subcutaneous transplanted tumor in nude mice. HCP5 could competitively bind miR-186-5p, while miR-186-5p could target the 3'-UTR of MAP3K2. The expression level of miR-186-5p was down regulated while the expression level of MAP3K2 was up-regulated in NB tissues. The expression level of HCP5 and miR-186-5p, the expression level of miR-186-5p and MAP3K2 were negatively correlated. The decreased proliferation of NB cells induced by down-regulation of HCP5 expression can be counteracted by miR-186-5p inhibitor or MAP3K2, and vice versa. CONCLUSION This study showed that lncRNA HCP5, as ceRNA, regulated MAP3K2 to promote NB progression through competitive binding of miR-186-5p. We revealed a new signaling pathway that mediates NB, which provided a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Liang Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Hua Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Tiantuo Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Chuancheng Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Yufei Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiyang Yu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiaorui He
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Yilin Su
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China.
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11
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Chow RY, Levee TM, Kaur G, Cedeno DP, Doan LT, Atwood SX. MTOR promotes basal cell carcinoma growth through atypical PKC. Exp Dermatol 2021; 30:358-366. [PMID: 33617094 PMCID: PMC9924159 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Advanced basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are driven by the Hedgehog (HH) pathway and often possess inherent resistance to SMO inhibitors. Identifying and targeting pathways that bypass SMO could provide alternative treatments for patients with advanced or metastatic BCC. Here, we use a combination of RNA-sequencing analysis of advanced human BCC tumor-normal pairs and immunostaining of human and mouse BCC samples to identify an MTOR expression signature in BCC. Pharmacological inhibition of MTOR activity in BCC cells significantly reduces cell proliferation without affecting HH signalling. Similarly, treatment of the Ptch1 fl/fl ; Gli1-CreERT2 mouse BCC tumor model with everolimus reduces tumor growth. aPKC, a downstream target of MTOR, shows reduced activity, suggesting that MTOR promotes tumor growth by activating aPKC and demonstrating that suppressing MTOR could be a promising target for BCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Y. Chow
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Taylor M. Levee
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Gurleen Kaur
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Daniel P. Cedeno
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Linda T. Doan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Scott X. Atwood
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA,Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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12
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MEKK2 and MEKK3 orchestrate multiple signals to regulate Hippo pathway. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100400. [PMID: 33571521 PMCID: PMC7948509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway that controls organ size in animals via the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. It consists of a kinase cascade, in which MST1/2 and MAP4Ks phosphorylate and activate LATS1/2, which in turn phosphorylate and inhibit YAP/TAZ activity. A variety of signals can modulate LATS1/2 kinase activity to regulate Hippo pathway. However, the full mechanistic details of kinase-mediated regulation of Hippo pathway signaling remain elusive. Here, we report that TNF activates LATS1/2 and inhibits YAP/TAZ activity through MEKK2/3. Furthermore, MEKK2/3 act in parallel to MST1/2 and MAP4Ks to regulate LATS1/2 and YAP/TAZ in response to various signals, such as serum and actin dynamics. Mechanistically, we show that MEKK2/3 interact with LATS1/2 and YAP/TAZ and phosphorylate them. In addition, Striatin-interacting phosphatase and kinase (STRIPAK) complex associates with MEKK3 via CCM2 and CCM3 to inactivate MEKK3 kinase activity. Upstream signals of Hippo pathway trigger the dissociation of MEKK3 from STRIPAK complex to release MEKK3 activity. Our work has uncovered a previous unrecognized regulation of Hippo pathway via MEKK2/3 and provides new insights into molecular mechanisms for the interplay between Hippo-YAP and NF-κB signaling and the pathogenesis of cerebral cavernous malformations.
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13
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Zhang Y, Wang D, Zhu T, Yu J, Wu X, Lin W, Zhu M, Dai Y, Zhu J. CircPUM1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through the miR-1208/MAP3K2 axis. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:600-612. [PMID: 33320435 PMCID: PMC7810943 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common disease with a significant mortality, and there is no effective treatment for advanced patients. Growing evidence indicates that circRNAs are closely related to HCC progression, may be used as biomarkers and targets for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Recent researches have shown that circPUM1 may play an oncogene role in a variety of human cancers, but its role in HCC development has not been reported. Our study found that circPUM1 could promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells in vitro. In addition, in vivo studies showed that circPUM1 could increase the development of HCC tumours and regulate the expression of EMT-related proteins. Furthermore, we demonstrated that circPUM1 could promote the development of HCC by up-regulating the expression of MAP3K2 via sponging miR-1208. Our study suggested that circPUM1 may be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqiong Zhang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Dongguo Wang
- Department of Clinical Lab MedicineTaizhou Municipal Hospital Affiliated with Taizhou UniversityZhejiangChina
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Plastic surgeryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Jin Yu
- The Health Management CentreTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)TaizhouChina
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Weidong Lin
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Minqi Zhu
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Yingjie Dai
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryTaizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital)ZhejiangChina
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14
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Lospinoso Severini L, Ghirga F, Bufalieri F, Quaglio D, Infante P, Di Marcotullio L. The SHH/GLI signaling pathway: a therapeutic target for medulloblastoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:1159-1181. [PMID: 32990091 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1823967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medulloblastoma (MB) is a heterogeneous tumor of the cerebellum that is divided into four main subgroups with distinct molecular and clinical features. Sonic Hedgehog MB (SHH-MB) is the most genetically understood and occurs predominantly in childhood. Current therapies consist of aggressive and non-targeted multimodal approaches that are often ineffective and cause long-term complications. These problems intensify the need to develop molecularly targeted therapies to improve outcome and reduce treatment-related morbidities. In this scenario, Hedgehog (HH) signaling, a developmental pathway whose deregulation is involved in the pathogenesis of several malignancies, has emerged as an attractive druggable pathway for SHH-MB therapy. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of the advancements in the HH antagonist research field. We place an emphasis on Smoothened (SMO) and glioma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) inhibitors and immunotherapy approaches that are validated in preclinical SHH-MB models and that have therapeutic potential for MB patients. Literature from Pubmed and data reported on ClinicalTrial.gov up to August 2020 were considered. EXPERT OPINION Extensive-omics analysis has enhanced our knowledge and has transformed the way that MB is studied and managed. The clinical use of SMO antagonists has yet to be determined, however, future GLI inhibitors and multitargeting approaches are promising.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bufalieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Deborah Quaglio
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 , Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life NanoScience@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy.,Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, University of Rome La Sapienza , 00161, Rome, Italy
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15
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Rui T, Zhang X, Feng S, Huang H, Zhan S, Xie H, Zhou L, Ling Q, Zheng S. The Similar Effects of miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p on the Promotion of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Different Tunes Sung With Equal Skill. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1244. [PMID: 32850377 PMCID: PMC7427533 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the therapeutic methods of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have made great advances, the current situation is that HCC is the common malignancy. Our previous bioinformatic study presented that two members of C19MC (mir-512-1 and mir-519a-2) acted as crucial roles in the HCC progression. In this study, we first demonstrated that the miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p, which were spliced from the mir-512-1 and mir-519a-2, were the functional mature miRNAs. Meanwhile, both miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p were significantly upregulated in human HCC samples and HCC cell lines. The miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p promoted the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the two miRNAs co-targeted the downstream tumor suppressors MAP3K2 and MAP2K4 and subsequently achieved the HCC progression. In the clinical cohort, high expression of miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p acted as two risk factors for HCC recurrence and distinguished patients with poor tumor-free survival after radical resection. The integration of the two miRNAs into the AJCC staging system significantly improved the accuracy for the prediction of HCC recurrence. Our study suggests that miR-512-3p and miR-519a-2-5p have similar effects on the promotion of HCC progression. They can be robust markers for the prediction of HCC recurrence and therapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Rui
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueyou Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shi Feng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Huang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaowei Zhan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyang Xie
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Ling
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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16
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Guerra J, Chiodelli P, Tobia C, Gerri C, Presta M. Long-Pentraxin 3 Affects Primary Cilium in Zebrafish Embryo and Cancer Cells via the FGF System. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071756. [PMID: 32630309 PMCID: PMC7409334 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary cilium drives the left-right asymmetry process during embryonic development. Moreover, its dysregulation contributes to cancer progression by affecting various signaling pathways. The fibroblast growth factor (FGF)/FGF receptor (FGFR) system modulates primary cilium length and plays a pivotal role in embryogenesis and tumor growth. Here, we investigated the impact of the natural FGF trap long-pentraxin 3 (PTX3) on the determination of primary cilium extension in zebrafish embryo and cancer cells. The results demonstrate that down modulation of the PTX3 orthologue ptx3b causes the shortening of primary cilium in zebrafish embryo in a FGF-dependent manner, leading to defects in the left-right asymmetry determination. Conversely, PTX3 upregulation causes the elongation of primary cilium in FGF-dependent cancer cells. Previous observations have identified the PTX3-derived small molecule NSC12 as an orally available FGF trap with anticancer effects on FGF-dependent tumors. In keeping with the non-redundant role of the FGF/FGR system in primary cilium length determination, NSC12 induces the elongation of primary cilium in FGF-dependent tumor cells, thus acting as a ciliogenic anticancer molecule in vitro and in vivo. Together, these findings demonstrate the ability of the natural FGF trap PTX3 to exert a modulatory effect on primary cilium in embryonic development and cancer. Moreover, they set the basis for the design of novel ciliogenic drugs with potential implications for the therapy of FGF-dependent tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Guerra
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (J.G.); (P.C.); (C.T.); (C.G.)
| | - Paola Chiodelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (J.G.); (P.C.); (C.T.); (C.G.)
| | - Chiara Tobia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (J.G.); (P.C.); (C.T.); (C.G.)
| | - Claudia Gerri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (J.G.); (P.C.); (C.T.); (C.G.)
- Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (J.G.); (P.C.); (C.T.); (C.G.)
- Italian Consortium for Biotechnology (CIB), 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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17
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Matissek SJ, Elsawa SF. GLI3: a mediator of genetic diseases, development and cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:54. [PMID: 32245491 PMCID: PMC7119169 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor GLI3 is a member of the Hedgehog (Hh/HH) signaling pathway that can exist as a full length (Gli3-FL/GLI3-FL) or repressor (Gli3-R/GLI3-R) form. In response to HH activation, GLI3-FL regulates HH genes by targeting the GLI1 promoter. In the absence of HH signaling, GLI3 is phosphorylated leading to its partial degradation and the generation of GLI3-R which represses HH functions. GLI3 is also involved in tissue development, immune cell development and cancer. The absence of Gli3 in mice impaired brain and lung development and GLI3 mutations in humans are the cause of Greig cephalopolysyndactyly (GCPS) and Pallister Hall syndromes (PHS). In the immune system GLI3 regulates B, T and NK-cells and may be involved in LPS-TLR4 signaling. In addition, GLI3 was found to be upregulated in multiple cancers and was found to positively regulate cancerous behavior such as anchorage-independent growth, angiogenesis, proliferation and migration with the exception in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and medulloblastoma where GLI plays an anti-cancerous role. Finally, GLI3 is a target of microRNA. Here, we will review the biological significance of GLI3 and discuss gaps in our understanding of this molecule. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan J. Matissek
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Sherine F. Elsawa
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
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18
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Wang S, Wang Y, Xun X, Zhang C, Xiang X, Cheng Q, Hu S, Li Z, Zhu J. Hedgehog signaling promotes sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma patient-derived organoids. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:22. [PMID: 31992334 PMCID: PMC6986013 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-1523-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumor-initiating cells (TICs) are a pivotal driving force. Both CD44 and Hedgehog signaling play crucial roles in TIC properties in HCC. In this study, we explored the roles of CD44 and Hedgehog signaling in sorafenib resistance and evaluated the therapeutic effect of cotreatment with sorafenib and Hedgehog signaling inhibitors in HCC patient-derived organoid (PDO) models to improve treatment efficacy. METHODS We collected HCC specimens to establish PDO models. Cell viability and malignant transformation properties were investigated after treatment with different TIC-related inhibitors alone or in combination with sorafenib to evaluate the therapeutic effect in PDOs and cell lines by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Expression levels of Hedgehog signaling proteins and CD44 were monitored to reveal potential relationships. RESULTS We demonstrated that our HCC PDO models strongly maintained the histological features of the corresponding tumors and responded to drug treatment. Furthermore, CD44-positive HCC PDOs were obviously resistant to sorafenib, and sorafenib increased CD44 levels. A drug screen showed that compared with Notch, Hippo and Wnt signaling inhibitors, a Hedgehog signaling inhibitor (GANT61) potently suppressed HCC PDO cell viability. In addition, there was a highly synergistic effect in vitro and in vivo on the suppression of cell viability and malignant properties when sorafenib and GANT61 were added to CD44-positive HCC PDOs and cell lines, respectively. Furthermore, the upregulation of CD44 and Hedgehog signaling induced by sorafenib was reversed by GANT61. CONCLUSIONS GANT61 significantly suppressed Hedgehog signaling to reverse sorafenib resistance in CD44-positive HCC. The combination of sorafenib and Hedgehog signaling inhibitors might be effective in HCC patients with high CD44 levels as a personalized-medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of HCC and Liver Cirrhosis, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of HCC and Liver Cirrhosis, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodong Xun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changkun Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Xiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Cheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Peking University Center of Liver Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Beijing, China
| | - Shihua Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of HCC and Liver Cirrhosis, Beijing, China. .,Peking University Center of Liver Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Beijing, China. .,Peking University Institute of Organ Transplantation, Beijing, China.
| | - Jiye Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of HCC and Liver Cirrhosis, Beijing, China. .,Peking University Center of Liver Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Beijing, China. .,Peking University Institute of Organ Transplantation, Beijing, China.
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19
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Neve A, Migliavacca J, Capdeville C, Schönholzer MT, Gries A, Ma M, Santhana Kumar K, Grotzer M, Baumgartner M. Crosstalk between SHH and FGFR Signaling Pathways Controls Tissue Invasion in Medulloblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11121985. [PMID: 31835472 PMCID: PMC6966681 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11121985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) subgroup of medulloblastoma (MB), tumor initiation and progression are in part driven by smoothened (SMO) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-receptor (FGFR) signaling, respectively. We investigated the impact of the SMO-FGFR crosstalk on tumor growth and invasiveness in MB. We found that FGFR signaling represses GLI1 expression downstream of activated SMO in the SHH MB line DAOY and induces MKI67, HES1, and BMI1 in DAOY and in the group 3 MB line HD-MBO3. FGFR repression of GLI1 does not affect proliferation or viability, whereas inhibition of FGFR is necessary to release SMO-driven invasiveness. Conversely, SMO activation represses FGFR-driven sustained activation of nuclear ERK. Parallel activation of FGFR and SMO in ex vivo tumor cell-cerebellum slice co-cultures reduced invasion of tumor cells without affecting proliferation. In contrast, treatment of the cells with the SMO antagonist Sonidegib (LDE225) blocked invasion and proliferation in cerebellar slices. Thus, sustained, low-level SMO activation is necessary for proliferation and tissue invasion, whereas acute, pronounced activation of SMO can repress FGFR-driven invasiveness. This suggests that the tumor cell response is dependent on the relative local abundance of the two factors and indicates a paradigm of microenvironmental control of invasion in SHH MB through mutual control of SHH and FGFR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Neve
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Jessica Migliavacca
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Charles Capdeville
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Marc Thomas Schönholzer
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Alexandre Gries
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Min Ma
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Biochemistry, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland;
| | - Karthiga Santhana Kumar
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Michael Grotzer
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Martin Baumgartner
- Department of Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Zürich, CH-8032 Zürich, Switzerland; (A.N.); (J.M.); (C.C.); (M.T.S.); (A.G.); (K.S.K.); (M.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-44-266-3730
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20
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Chen X, Gao J, Yu Y, Zhao Z, Pan Y. LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 promotes proliferation, invasion and migration of cutaneous malignant melanoma via regulating miR-325/MAP3K2. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 120:109438. [PMID: 31541886 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim was to study the mechanism of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 in cutaneous melanoma. METHODS FOXD3-AS1 levels in 47 pairs of melanoma samples were detected. We used qRT-PCR to detect FOXD3-AS1, miR-325 and MAP3K2 expression in different staging samples and cutaneous melanoma cell lines. We used Kaplan-Meier curve to analyze survival rate in patients with FOXD3-AS1 high and low expression. Sh-FOXD3-AS1, miR-325, miR-325 inhibitor and oeMAP3K2 were transfected. The proliferation of A375 and SK-MEL-1 was detected by CCK8 and EdU labeling assay and cell clone formation assay. Dual luciferase reporter assay and pull down assay was used to confirm the binding site of FOXD3-AS1, miR-325 and MAP3K2. Flow cytometry was applied to detect the effect of lncRNA on cell cycle. The migration and invasion ability were detected by transwell assay. RESULTS LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 highly expressed in cutaneous melanoma cells and tissues. Patients with highly expressed LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 were always with shorter overall survival time. When LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 was knockdown, proliferation, invasion and migration of cutaneous malignant melanoma, and tumor weight was inhibited, and cell cycle was arrested. LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 negatively regulated the expression of miR-325, and then improved the level of MAP3K2. MiR-325 was with similarly effects on above biological process, and MAP3K2 overexpression could rescue the influence of sh-FOXD3-AS1. Tumor volume and weight were measured to confirm the effect of sh-FOXD3-AS1 in vivo. CONCLUSION LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 could promote proliferation, invasion and migration of cutaneous malignant melanoma via regulating miR-325/MAP3K2 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xige Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Weihai Central Hospitai, Weihai 264400, China
| | - Juan Gao
- Department of Rheumatology, Weihai Central Hospitai, Weihai 264400, China
| | - Yanhua Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Weihai Central Hospitai, Weihai 264400, China
| | - Zhengjuan Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Weihai Central Hospitai, Weihai 264400, China
| | - Yingli Pan
- Department of Dermatology, Weihai Central Hospitai, Weihai 264400, China.
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21
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Wang L, Yan W, Wang J. Silencing MEKK3 attenuates cardiomyocyte injury caused by hypoxia/reoxygenation via the sonic hedgehog pathway. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:15206-15214. [PMID: 30712259 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
MEKK3 is a member of MAP3K, which plays a pivotal role in cardiac diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of MEKK3 on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury of cardiomyocytes. After exposing H9C2 cells to H/R insult, real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis showed that MEKK3 was highly expressed. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, caspase 3/7 activity, and cleaved-caspase 3 expression were tested using a CCK-8 assay, Cell Death Detection PLUS ELISA, Caspase-Glo 3/7 Assay Kit and western blot analysis, respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome C expression, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and reactive oxygen species also were measured using JC-1 staining, western blot analysis, an ATP Assay Kit, and DCFH 2 -DA staining, respectively. The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and secretions of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were evaluated. The results revealed that MEKK3 silencing promoted cell survival and attenuated lactate dehydrogenase leakage, cell apoptosis, caspase 3/7 activity, and the protein level of cleaved-caspase 3. Moreover, knockdown of MEKK3 blocked mitochondrial impairment by inhibiting the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome C expression as well as promoting ATP synthesis. MEKK3 deficiency led to a decrease in reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde (MDA) generation and an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Deletion of MEKK3 led to reduced inflammatory cytokines in mRNA level and secretion. MEKK3 suppression activated the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway in H9C2 cells. After blocking the Shh signaling pathway with a specific inhibitor, cyclopamine, the cardioprotective functions of MEKK3 downregulation were partly abolished. In conclusion, downregulation of MEKK3 prevented apoptosis and inflammation in H9C2 cells via the Shh signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First People's Hospital of Shangqiu, Shangqiu, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijun Yan
- Emergency Department, Yan'an People's Hospital, Yan'an, Shannxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Yan'an University, Yan'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
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22
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Pietrobono S, Gagliardi S, Stecca B. Non-canonical Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Cancer: Activation of GLI Transcription Factors Beyond Smoothened. Front Genet 2019; 10:556. [PMID: 31244888 PMCID: PMC6581679 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog-GLI (HH-GLI) pathway is a highly conserved signaling that plays a critical role in controlling cell specification, cell–cell interaction and tissue patterning during embryonic development. Canonical activation of HH-GLI signaling occurs through binding of HH ligands to the twelve-pass transmembrane receptor Patched 1 (PTCH1), which derepresses the seven-pass transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor Smoothened (SMO). Thus, active SMO initiates a complex intracellular cascade that leads to the activation of the three GLI transcription factors, the final effectors of the HH-GLI pathway. Aberrant activation of this signaling has been implicated in a wide variety of tumors, such as those of the brain, skin, breast, gastrointestinal, lung, pancreas, prostate and ovary. In several of these cases, activation of HH-GLI signaling is mediated by overproduction of HH ligands (e.g., prostate cancer), loss-of-function mutations in PTCH1 or gain-of-function mutations in SMO, which occur in the majority of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), SHH-subtype medulloblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma. Besides the classical canonical ligand-PTCH1-SMO route, mounting evidence points toward additional, non-canonical ways of GLI activation in cancer. By non-canonical we refer to all those mechanisms of activation of the GLI transcription factors occurring independently of SMO. Often, in a given cancer type canonical and non-canonical activation of HH-GLI signaling co-exist, and in some cancer types, more than one mechanism of non-canonical activation may occur. Tumors harboring non-canonical HH-GLI signaling are less sensitive to SMO inhibition, posing a threat for therapeutic efficacy of these antagonists. Here we will review the most recent findings on the involvement of alternative signaling pathways in inducing GLI activity in cancer and stem cells. We will also discuss the rationale of targeting these oncogenic pathways in combination with HH-GLI inhibitors as a promising anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pietrobono
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Sinforosa Gagliardi
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Tumor Cell Biology Unit - Core Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
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23
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Zhang Y, Wang SS, Tao L, Pang LJ, Zou H, Liang WH, Liu Z, Guo SL, Jiang JF, Zhang WJ, Jia W, Li F. Overexpression of MAP3K3 promotes tumour growth through activation of the NF-κB signalling pathway in ovarian carcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8401. [PMID: 31182739 PMCID: PMC6558032 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44835-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 3 (MAP3K3), a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase family, is ubiquitously expressed and acts as an oncogene. However, the expression and exact molecular mechanism of MAP3K3 in ovarian carcinoma (OC) remain unclear. Here, we found that MAP3K3 protein was highly expressed in 70.5% of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) samples. MAP3K3 overexpression was significantly associated with the FIGO stage and chemotherapy response. Additionally, MAP3K3 overexpression was associated with reduced disease-free survival and overall survival. In vitro experiments showed that MAP3K3 overexpression promoted cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and enhanced the migration and invasion of OC cells. Moreover, in vivo tumourigenesis experiments confirmed that silencing MAP3K3 significantly reduced the growth rate and volume of transplanted tumours in nude mice. Drug sensitivity experiments demonstrated that differential expression of MAP3K3 in OC cell lines correlates with chemotherapy resistance. Functionally, the MAP3K3 gene regulated the malignant biological behaviour of OC cells by mediating NF-κB signalling pathways, affecting the downstream epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cytoskeletal protein expression. Our results unveiled the role of MAP3K3 in mediating NF-κB signalling to promote the proliferation, invasion, migration, and chemotherapeutic resistance of OC cells, highlighting a potential new therapeutic and prognostic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Sha-Sha Wang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Lin Tao
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Li-Juan Pang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Hong Zou
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Wei-Hua Liang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Department of Pathology and Medical Research Center, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Su-Liang Guo
- Department of Pathology and Medical Research Center, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jin-Fang Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China
| | - Wei Jia
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Pathology and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, 832002, China. .,Department of Pathology and Medical Research Center, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China.
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24
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Kong YL, Wang YF, Zhu ZS, Deng ZW, Chen J, Zhang D, Jiang QH, Zhao SC, Zhang YD. Silencing of the MEKK2/MEKK3 Pathway Protects against Spinal Cord Injury via the Hedgehog Pathway and the JNK Pathway. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 17:578-589. [PMID: 31382189 PMCID: PMC6682310 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating medical condition, often accompanied by motor and sensory dysfunction. The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway has a protective role in pathological injury after SCI. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. The present study aimed to confirm the effects of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-2 (MEKK2)/MEKK3/JNK/Hh pathway on SCI. SCI rat models were established and then inoculated with plasmids overexpressing MEKK2/MEKK3 or with small interfering RNA (siRNA) against MEKK2/MEKK3. The expression of MEKK2 and -3 was detected in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cells. The motor function of hindlimbs, the expression of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)- and Hh-pathway-related genes, and the level of neurofilament-200 (NF-200) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were measured. MEKK2 and -3 were expressed at a high level in DRG cells. The silencing of MEKK2/MEKK3 in rats caused an increase in the expression of glioma-associated oncogene homolog-1 (Gli-1), Nestin, smoothened (Smo), and Sonic Hedgehog (Shh). The Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) rating and the level of NF-200 protein also increased. However, the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β), MIP-3α, p-JNK/JNK, and p-c-Jun/c-Jun and the level of GFAP were reduced. Downregulation of MEKK2/MEKK3 ameliorated the symptoms of SCI by promoting neural progenitor cell differentiation via activating the Hh pathway and disrupting the JNK pathway. The findings in this study reveal a potential biomarker for SCI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Long Kong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Anhui University of Science and Technology, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Fei Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhong-Sheng Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zheng-Wei Deng
- Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Chen
- Graduate School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qun-Hua Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
- Corresponding author: Qun-Hua Jiang, Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China.
| | - Shi-Chang Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, People’s Republic of China
- Corresponding author: Shi-Chang Zhao, Dr., Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, People’s Republic of China.
| | - Ya-Dong Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Anhui University of Science and Technology, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China
- Corresponding author: Ya-Dong Zhang, Dr., Department of Orthopaedics, Fengxian Hospital Affiliated to Anhui University of Science and Technology, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai 201499, People’s Republic of China.
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25
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Montagnani V, Stecca B. Role of Protein Kinases in Hedgehog Pathway Control and Implications for Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11040449. [PMID: 30934935 PMCID: PMC6520855 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11040449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (HH) signaling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway that is crucial for growth and tissue patterning during embryonic development. It is mostly quiescent in the adult, where it regulates tissue homeostasis and stem cell behavior. Aberrant reactivation of HH signaling has been associated to several types of cancer, including those in the skin, brain, prostate, breast and hematological malignancies. Activation of the canonical HH signaling is triggered by binding of HH ligand to the twelve-transmembrane protein PATCHED. The binding releases the inhibition of the seven-transmembrane protein SMOOTHENED (SMO), leading to its phosphorylation and activation. Hence, SMO activates the transcriptional effectors of the HH signaling, that belong to the GLI family of transcription factors, acting through a not completely elucidated intracellular signaling cascade. Work from the last few years has shown that protein kinases phosphorylate several core components of the HH signaling, including SMO and the three GLI proteins, acting as powerful regulatory mechanisms to fine tune HH signaling activities. In this review, we will focus on the mechanistic influence of protein kinases on HH signaling transduction. We will also discuss the functional consequences of this regulation and the possible implications for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Montagnani
- Core Research Laboratory⁻Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stecca
- Core Research Laboratory⁻Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), 50139 Florence, Italy.
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26
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Antonucci L, Di Magno L, D'Amico D, Manni S, Serrao SM, Di Pastena F, Bordone R, Yurtsever ZN, Caimano M, Petroni M, Giorgi A, Schininà ME, Yates Iii JR, Di Marcotullio L, De Smaele E, Checquolo S, Capalbo C, Agostinelli E, Maroder M, Coni S, Canettieri G. Mitogen-activated kinase kinase kinase 1 inhibits hedgehog signaling and medulloblastoma growth through GLI1 phosphorylation. Int J Oncol 2018; 54:505-514. [PMID: 30483764 PMCID: PMC6317670 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aberrant activation of hedgehog (HH) signaling is a leading cause of the development of medulloblastoma, a pediatric tumor of the cerebellum. The FDA-approved HH inhibitor, Vismodegib, which targets the transmembrane transducer SMO, has shown limited efficacy in patients with medulloblastoma, due to compensatory mechanisms that maintain an active HH-GLI signaling status. Thus, the identification of novel actionable mechanisms, directly affecting the activity of the HH-regulated GLI transcription factors is an important goal for these malignancies. In this study, using gene expression and reporter assays, combined with biochemical and cellular analyses, we demonstrate that mitogen-activated kinase kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1), the most upstream kinase of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation modules, suppresses HH signaling by associating and phosphorylating GLI1, the most potent HH-regulated transcription factor. Phosphorylation occurred at multiple residues in the C-terminal region of GLI1 and was followed by an increased association with the cytoplasmic proteins 14-3-3. Of note, the enforced expression of MEKK1 or the exposure of medulloblastoma cells to the MEKK1 activator, Nocodazole, resulted in a marked inhibitory effect on GLI1 activity and tumor cell proliferation and viability. Taken together, the results of this study shed light on a novel regulatory mechanism of HH signaling, with potentially relevant implications in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Antonucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Center for Life Nano Science at Sapienza, Italian Institute of Technology, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide D'Amico
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Manni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Maria Serrao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Di Pastena
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Rosa Bordone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Zuleyha Nihan Yurtsever
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Caimano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marialaura Petroni
- Center for Life Nano Science at Sapienza, Italian Institute of Technology, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Giorgi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Eugenia Schininà
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - John R Yates Iii
- Department of Cell Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enzo Agostinelli
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marella Maroder
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Sonia Coni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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