Prostate cancer castrate resistant progression usage of non-canonical androgen receptor signaling and ketone body fuel

miR-1202 regulates BPH-1 cell proliferation, apoptosis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through targeting HMGCL

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the expansion of the prostate gland that results in urinary symptoms. Both the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the Wnt signaling pathway are associated with BPH pathology. In this study, we find that miR-1202 is increased in BPH samples. Overexpression of miR-1202 in TGF-β-treated BPH-1 cells enhances cell survival and DNA synthesis and inhibits cell apoptosis, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially abolishes the effects of TGF-β on BPH-1 cells. miR-1202 overexpression reduces E-cadherin level but elevates vimentin, N-cadherin, and snail levels, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially attenuates the effects of TGF-β on EMT markers. Regarding the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, miR-1202 overexpression significantly enhances, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially decreases, the promotive effects of TGF-β on Wnt1, c-Myc, and cyclin D1 proteins. 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA lyase (HMGCL) is a direct downstream target of miR-1202, and miR-1202 inhibits HMGCL expression through binding to its 3'UTR. Overexpression of HMGCL significantly reduces the effect of miR-1202 overexpression on the phenotypes of BPH-1 cells by inhibiting cell survival and promoting apoptosis. Similarly, HMGCL overexpression has the opposite effects on EMT markers and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and markedly alleviates the effects of miR-1202 overexpression. Finally, in the BPH rat model, Ki67 and vimentin levels are elevated, but E-cadherin and HMGCL levels are reduced. In conclusion, miR-1202 is upregulated in benign prostatic hyperplasia; miR-1202 enhances epithelial cell proliferation, suppresses cell apoptosis, and promotes EMT by targeting HMGCL. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway may participate in the miR-1202/HMGCL axis-mediated regulation of BPH-1 cell phenotypes.

Integrative Molecular Analyses of the MD Anderson Prostate Cancer Patient-derived Xenograft (MDA PCa PDX) Series

PURPOSE

Develop and deploy a robust discovery platform that encompasses heterogeneity, clinical annotation, and molecular characterization and overcomes the limited availability of prostate cancer models. This initiative builds on the rich MD Anderson (MDA) prostate cancer (PCa) patient-derived xenograft (PDX) resource to complement existing publicly available databases by addressing gaps in clinically annotated models reflecting the heterogeneity of potentially lethal and lethal prostate cancer.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We performed whole-genome, targeted, and RNA sequencing in representative samples of the same tumor from 44 PDXs derived from 38 patients linked to donor tumor metadata and corresponding organoids. The cohort includes models derived from different morphologic groups, disease states, and involved organ sites (including circulating tumor cells), as well as paired samples representing heterogeneity or stages before and after therapy.

RESULTS

The cohort recapitulates clinically reported alterations in prostate cancer genes, providing a data resource for clinical and molecular interrogation of suitable experimental models. Paired samples displayed conserved molecular alteration profiles, suggesting the relevance of other regulatory mechanisms (e.g., epigenomic) influenced by the microenvironment and/or treatment. Transcriptomically, models were grouped on the basis of morphologic classification. DNA damage response-associated mechanisms emerged as differentially regulated between adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine prostate cancer in a cross-interrogation of PDX/patient datasets.

CONCLUSIONS

We addressed the gap in clinically relevant prostate cancer models through comprehensive molecular characterization of MDA PCa PDXs, providing a discovery platform that integrates with patient data and benchmarked to therapeutically relevant consensus clinical groupings. This unique resource supports robust hypothesis generation and testing from basic, translational, and clinical perspectives.

Integrative Metabolomic Analysis of Serum and Selected Serum Exosomal microRNA in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains a lethal disease due to the absence of effective therapies. A more comprehensive understanding of molecular events, encompassing the dysregulation of microRNAs (miRs) and metabolic reprogramming, holds the potential to unveil precise mechanisms underlying mCRPC. This study aims to assess the expression of selected serum exosomal miRs (miR-15a, miR-16, miR-19a-3p, miR-21, and miR-141a-3p) alongside serum metabolomic profiling and their correlation in patients with mCRPC and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Blood serum samples from mCRPC patients (n = 51) and BPH patients (n = 48) underwent metabolome analysis through 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The expression levels of serum exosomal miRs in mCRPC and BPH patients were evaluated using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The 1H-NMR metabolomics analysis revealed significant alterations in lactate, acetate, citrate, 3-hydroxybutyrate, and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs, including valine, leucine, and isoleucine) in mCRPC patients compared to BPH patients. MiR-15a, miR-16, miR-19a-3p, and miR-21 exhibited a downregulation of more than twofold in the mCRPC group. Significant correlations were predominantly observed between lactate, citrate, acetate, and miR-15a, miR-16, miR-19a-3p, and miR-21. The importance of integrating metabolome analysis of serum with selected serum exosomal miRs in mCRPC patients has been confirmed, suggesting their potential utility for distinguishing of mCRPC from BPH.

Molecular heterogeneity in prostate cancer and the role of targeted therapy

Data collected from large-scale studies has shown that the incidence of prostate cancer globally is on the rise, which could be attributed to an overall increase in lifespan. So, the question is how has modern science with all its new technologies and clinical breakthroughs mitigated or managed this disease? The answer is not a simple one as prostate cancer exhibits various subtypes, each with its unique characteristics or signatures which creates challenges in treatment. To understand the complexity of prostate cancer these signatures must be deciphered. Molecular studies of prostate cancer samples have identified certain genetic and epigenetic alterations, which are instrumental in tumorigenesis. Some of these candidates include the androgen receptor (AR), various oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and the tumor microenvironment, which serve as major drivers that lead to cancer progression. These aberrant genes and their products can give an insight into prostate cancer development and progression by acting as potent markers to guide future therapeutic approaches. Thus, understanding the complexity of prostate cancer is crucial for targeting specific markers and tailoring treatments accordingly.

BDH1-mediated LRRC31 regulation dependent on histone lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation to promote lung adenocarcinoma progression

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common form of lung cancer, with a consistently low 5-year survival rate. Therefore, we aim to identify key genes involved in LUAD progression to pave the way for targeted therapies in the future. BDH1 plays a critical role in the conversion between acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate. The presence of β-hydroxybutyrate is essential for initiating lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation (Kbhb) modifications. Histone Kbhb at the H3K9 site is attributed to transcriptional activation. We unveiled that β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (BDH1) is not only conspicuously overexpressed in LUAD, but it also modulates the overall intracellular Kbhb modification levels. The RNA sequencing analysis revealed leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 31 (LRRC31) as a downstream target gene regulated by BDH1. Ecologically expressed BDH1 hinders the accumulation of H3K9bhb in the transcription start site of LRRC31, consequently repressing the transcriptional expression of LRRC31. Furthermore, we identified potential BDH1 inhibitors, namely pimozide and crizotinib, which exhibit a synergistic inhibitory effect on the proliferation of LUAD cells exhibiting high expression of BDH1. In summary, this study elucidates the molecular mechanism by which BDH1 mediates LUAD progression through the H3K9bhb/LRRC31 axis and proposes a therapeutic strategy targeting BDH1-high-expressing LUAD, providing a fresh perspective for LUAD treatment.

Emerging proteins involved in castration‑resistant prostate cancer via the AR‑dependent and AR‑independent pathways (Review)

Despite achieving optimal initial responses to androgen deprivation therapy, most patients with prostate cancer eventually progress to a poor prognosis state known as castration‑resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Currently, there is a notable absence of reliable early warning biomarkers and effective treatment strategies for these patients. Although androgen receptor (AR)‑independent pathways have been discovered and acknowledged in recent years, the AR signaling pathway continues to play a pivotal role in the progression of CRPC. The present review focuses on newly identified proteins within human CRPC tissues. These proteins encompass both those involved in AR‑dependent and AR‑independent pathways. Specifically, the present review provides an in‑depth summary and analysis of the emerging proteins within AR bypass pathways. Furthermore, the significance of these proteins as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for treating CRPC is discussed. Therefore, the present review offers valuable theoretical insights and clinical perspectives to comprehensively enhance the understanding of CRPC.

siRNA-based approaches for castration-resistant prostate cancer therapy targeting the androgen receptor signaling pathway

Androgen deprivation therapy is a common treatment method for metastatic prostate cancer through lowering androgen levels; however, this therapy frequently leads to the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). This is attributed to the activation of the androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway. Current treatments targeting AR are often ineffective mostly due to AR gene overexpression and mutations, as well as the presence of splice variants that accelerate CRPC progression. Thus there is a critical need for more specific medication to treat CRPC. Small interfering RNAs have shown great potential as a targeted therapy. This review discusses prostate cancer progression and the role of AR signaling in CRPC, and proposes siRNA-based targeted therapy as a promising strategy for CRPC.

Persistent organic pollutants promote aggressiveness in prostate cancer

Increasing evidence points towards a causal link between exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) with increased incidence and aggressivity of various cancers. Among these POPs, dioxin and PCB-153 are widely found in our environment and represent a significant source of contamination. Dioxin exposure has already been linked to cancer such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, but remains to be more extensively investigated in other cancers. Potential implications of dioxin and PCB-153 in prostate cancer progression spurred us to challenge both ex vivo and in vivo models with low doses of these POPs. We found that dioxin or PCB-153 exposure increased hallmarks of growth and metastasis of prostate cancer cells ex vivo and in grafted NOD-SCID mice. Exposure induced histopathological carcinoma-like patterns in the Ptenpc-/- mice. We identified up-regulation of Acetyl-CoA Acetyltransferase-1 (ACAT1) involved in ketone bodies pathway as a potential target. Mechanistically, genetic inhibition confirmed that ACAT1 mediated dioxin effect on cell migration. Using public prostate cancer datasets, we confirmed the deregulation of ACAT1 and associated gene encoded ketone bodies pathway enzymes such as OXCT1, BDH1 and HMGCL in advanced prostate cancer. To further explore this link between dioxin and ACAT1 deregulation, we analyzed a unique prostate-tumour tissue collection from the USA veterans exposed to agent orange, known to be highly contaminated by dioxin because of industrial production. We found that ACAT1 histoscore is significantly increased in exposed patients. Our studies reveal the implication of dioxin and PCB-153 to induce a prometastatic programme in prostate tumours and identify ACAT1 deregulation as a key event in this process.

Elevated serum β-hydroxybutyrate, a circulating ketone metabolite, accelerates colorectal cancer proliferation and metastasis via ACAT1

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks third in incidence and second in mortality worldwide. Metabolic disorders are known to be closely associated with CRC. Functional metabolomics aims to translate metabolomics-derived biomarkers to disease mechanisms. Previous work based on untargeted liquid chromatography identified 30 differential metabolites of CRC. Among them, only β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) was elevated in CRC. Here, we first confirm the increased level of β-hydroxybutyrate by targeted metabolomic analysis using an independent cohort of 400 serum samples by UPLC-QQQ-MS/MS analysis. Using appropriate cell and animal models, we find that treatment with pathological levels of β-hydroxybutyrate expedites CRC proliferation and metastasis. Out of four major rate-limiting enzymes of ketolysis, only acetyl-coenzyme A acetyltransferase1 (ACAT1) expression is increased in paired human CRC tissues. These findings suggest probable clinical relevance for the functional implications of β-hydroxybutyrate in CRC. We demonstrate that β-hydroxybutyrate may exert its tumorigenic effects via regulation of ACAT1, due to induction of downstream isocitrate dehydrogenase1 (IDH1) acetylation. Genetic silencing of ACAT1 significantly suppresses the progression of CRC and abrogates the effects of β-hydroxybutyrate both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this study suggests that targeting β-hydroxybutyrate and its major rate-limiting enzyme ACAT1 may provide a new avenue for therapeutic intervention in CRC.

Molecular Mechanisms for Ketone Body Metabolism, Signaling Functions, and Therapeutic Potential in Cancer

The ketone bodies (KBs) β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate are important alternative energy sources for glucose during nutrient deprivation. KBs synthesized by hepatic ketogenesis are catabolized to acetyl-CoA through ketolysis in extrahepatic tissues, followed by the tricarboxylic acid cycle and electron transport chain for ATP production. Ketogenesis and ketolysis are regulated by the key rate-limiting enzymes, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 and succinyl-CoA:3-oxoacid-CoA transferase, respectively. KBs participate in various cellular processes as signaling molecules. KBs bind to G protein-coupled receptors. The most abundant KB, β-hydroxybutyrate, regulates gene expression and other cellular functions by inducing post-translational modifications. KBs protect tissues by regulating inflammation and oxidative stress. Recently, interest in KBs has been increasing due to their potential for treatment of various diseases such as neurological and cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to maintain rapid cell growth and proliferation. Dysregulation of KB metabolism also plays a role in tumorigenesis in various types of cancer. Targeting metabolic changes through dietary interventions, including fasting and ketogenic diets, has shown beneficial effects in cancer therapy. Here, we review current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of KB metabolism and cellular signaling functions, and the therapeutic potential of KBs and ketogenic diets in cancer.

Construction of a prognostic signature for serous ovarian cancer based on lactate metabolism-related genes

Background

The key biochemical feature of malignant tumor is the conversion of energy metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis, which provides sufficient capacity and raw materials for tumor cell rapid growth. Our study aims to construct a prognostic signature for ovarian cancer based on lactate metabolism-related genes (LMRGs).

Methods

Data of ovarian cancer and non-diseased ovarian data were downloaded from TCGA and the GTEx database, respectively. LMRGs were obtained from GeneCards and MSigDB databases, and the differentially expressed LMRGs were identified using limma and DESeq2 R packages. Cox regression analysis and LASSO were performed to determine the LMRGs associated with OS and develop the prognostic signature. Then, clinical significance of the prognostic signature in ovarian cancer was assessed.

Results

A total of 485 differentially expressed LMRGs in ovarian tissue were selected for subsequent analysis, of which 324 were up-regulated and 161 were down regulated. We found that 22 LMRGs were most significantly associated with OS by using the univariate regression analysis. The prognostic scoring model was consisted of 12 LMRGs (SLCO1B3, ERBB4, SLC28A1, PDSS1, BDH1, AIFM1, TSFM, PPARGC1A, HGF, FGFR1, ABCC8, TH). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that poorer overall survival (OS) in the high-risk group patients (P<0.0001). This prognostic signature could be an independent prognostic indicator after adjusting to other clinical factors. The calibration curves of nomogram for the signature at 1, 2, and 3 years and the ROC curve demonstrated good agreement between the predicted and observed survival rates of ovarian cancer patients. Furthermore, the high-risk group patients have much lower expression level of immune checkpoint-TDO2 compared with the low-risk group (P=0.024).

Conclusions

We established a prognostic signature based on LMRGs for ovarian cancer, and highlighted emerging evidence indicating that this prognostic signature is a promising approach for predicting ovarian cancer prognosis and guiding clinical therapy.

The Effect of Prostate Cancer-Targeting Doxorubicin Nanomicelles Combined with Photothermal Therapy on Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

The present study investigated a combination of prostate cancer-targeting doxorubicin (DOX) nanomicelles with photothermal therapy of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) in vitro and in vivo. Nanomicelles formed by the self-assembly of superparamagnetic ferrite, polyethyleneimine, and polyethylene glycol were used as the carriers, and the chemotherapy drug DOX was embedded in the nanomicelles. The photothermal properties of the nanomicelles and the toxic effects of prostate cancer-targeting nanomicelles were evaluated. The therapeutic effects in the BP@PGE, BP@PGE+NIR, BP@PGE-dox, and BP@PGE-dox+NIR groups were compared. Prostate cancer-targeting DOX nanomicelles were successfully formed. The drug release was stable, and the cytotoxicity and blood compatibility tests demonstrated that the prostate cancer-targeting DOX nanomicelles were safe for normal cells. The temperature of BP@PEG was increased to 52 °C upon a laser irradiation of 808 nm at a power density of 1.5 W/cm2; however, the temperature of BP-DOX was increased to 48 °C within 5 min. DOX loading did not influence the photothermal performance of the nanomaterials. The in vitro and in vivo studies showed that the prostate cancer-targeting DOX nanomicelles combined with photothermal therapy were an effective treatment for CRPC. Prostate cancer-targeting DOX nanomicelles had no systemic toxicity to the organism and ensured safe biological application of these agents.

Bone Progenitors Pull the Strings on the Early Metabolic Rewiring Occurring in Prostate Cancer Cells

Metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) cells soiling in the bone require a metabolic adaptation. Here, we identified the metabolic genes fueling the seeding of PCa in the bone niche. Using a transwell co-culture system of PCa (PC3) and bone progenitor cells (MC3T3 or Raw264.7), we assessed the transcriptome of PC3 cells modulated by soluble factors released from bone precursors. In a Principal Component Analysis using transcriptomic data from human PCa samples (GSE74685), the altered metabolic genes found in vitro were able to stratify PCa patients in two defined groups: primary PCa and bone metastasis, confirmed by an unsupervised clustering analysis. Thus, the early transcriptional metabolic profile triggered in the in vitro model has a clinical correlate in human bone metastatic samples. Further, the expression levels of five metabolic genes (VDR, PPARA, SLC16A1, GPX1 and PAPSS2) were independent risk-predictors of death in the SU2C-PCF dataset and a risk score model built using this lipid-associated signature was able to discriminate a subgroup of bone metastatic PCa patients with a 23-fold higher risk of death. This signature was validated in a PDX pre-clinical model when comparing MDA-PCa-183 growing intrafemorally vs. subcutaneously, and appears to be under the regulatory control of the Protein Kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway. Secretome analyses of conditioned media showcased fibronectin and type-1 collagen as critical bone-secreted factors that could regulate tumoral PKA. Overall, we identified a novel lipid gene signature, driving PCa aggressive metastatic disease pointing to PKA as a potential hub to halt progression.