Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancers and targeted therapies

WYC-209 inhibited GC malignant progression by down-regulating WNT4 through RARα

Gastric cancer (GC) has been a major health burden all over the world but there are fewer promising chemotherapeutic drugs due to its multidrug resistance. It has been reported that WYC-209 suppresses the growth and metastasis of tumor-repopulating cells but the effect on GC was not explored. MTT, colony formation, and transwell assays were performed to examine the effects of WYC-209 on the proliferation, colony growth, and mobility of GC cells. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression of proteins and mRNA. RNA-seq and enrichment analyses were conducted for the differentially expressed genes and enriched biological processes and pathways. The rescue experiments were carried out for further validation. Besides, we constructed xenograft model to confirm the effect of WYC-209 in vivo. The dual-luciferase reporter and Chromatin immunoprecipitation were implemented to confirm the underlying mechanism. WYC-209 exerted excellent anti-cancer effects both in vitro and in vivo. Based on RNA-seq and enrichment analyses, we found that Wnt family member 4 (WNT4) was significantly down-regulated. More importantly, WNT4 overexpression breached the inhibitory effect of WYC-209 on GC progression. Mechanically, WYC-209 significantly promoted the binding between retinoic acid receptor α (RARα) and WNT4 promoter. WYC-209 exerts anti-tumor effects in GC by down-regulating the expression of WNT4 via RARα.

Role of SFRP5 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Its Correlation with SUV of 18F-FDG PET-CT

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) expression and fluorine 18-fluoro-deoxyglucose (18 F-FDG) uptake imaged with positron emission tomography/tomography (PET/CT) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In addition, we sought to elucidate the potential role and mechanism of action of SFRP5 in NSCLC.Materials and methods: The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of the lesions was calculated. SFRP5 expression was analyzed using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The correlation between SFRP5 expression and SUVmax was evaluated using Pearson's correlation analysis. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays were used to analyze cell viability, apoptosis, migration, and invasion, respectively.Results and conclusion: The results indicated that the SUVmax was higher in patients with NSCLC than that in healthy volunteers. Moreover, SFRP5 expression was lower in tissues from the four types of NSCLC than that in the adjacent normal tissues. SUVmax negatively correlated with SFRP5 expression in the four types of NSCLC. In addition, up-regulation of SFRP5 decreased the viability, migration, and invasion abilities, and increased apoptosis of NSCLC cells. Furthermore, SFRP5 inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in NSCLC cells. In conclusion, SFRP5 modulates the biological behaviors of NSCLC through Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

CST2 promotes cell proliferation and regulates cell cycle by activating Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway in serous ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Cystatin SA (CST2) plays multiple roles in different types of malignant tumours; however, its role in serous ovarian cancer (SOC) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the expression levels, survival outcomes, immune cell infiltration, proliferation, cell cycle, and underlying molecular mechanisms associated with the CST2 signature in SOC.

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas database was used to acquire clinical information and CST2 expression profiles from patients with SOC. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare CST2 expression levels between SOC and normal ovarian tissues. A prognostic assessment of CST2 was conducted using Cox regression analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method. Differentially expressed genes were identified using functional enrichment analysis. Immune cell infiltration was examined using a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Cell cycle characteristics and proliferation were assessed using a colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and a cell counting kit-8 assay. Western blots and quantitative reverse transcription PCR analyses were employed to examine CST2 expressions and related genes involved in the cell cycle and the Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed significant upregulation of CST2 in SOC, and elevated CST2 expression was correlated with advanced clinicopathological characteristics and unfavourable prognoses. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted the association between the cell cycle and the Wnt signalling pathway. Moreover, increased CST2 levels were positively correlated with immune cell infiltration. Functionally, CST2 played vital roles in promoting cell proliferation, orchestrating the G1-to-S phase transition, and driving malignant SOC progression through activating the Wnt-β-catenin signalling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The elevated expression of CST2 may be related to the occurrence and progression of SOC by activating the Wnt-β-catenin pathway. Additionally, our findings suggest that CST2 is a promising novel biomarker with potential applications in therapeutic, prognostic, and diagnostic strategies for SOC.

Role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cancer drug resistance: Insights into molecular aspects of major solid tumors

Adaptive resistance to conventional and targeted therapies remains one of the major obstacles in the effective management of cancer. Aberrant activation of key signaling mechanisms plays a pivotal role in modulating resistance to drugs. An evolutionarily conserved Wnt/β-catenin pathway is one of the signaling cascades which regulate resistance to drugs. Elevated Wnt signaling confers resistance to anticancer therapies, either through direct activation of its target genes or via indirect mechanisms and crosstalk over other signaling pathways. Involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cancer hallmarks like inhibition of apoptosis, promotion of invasion and metastasis and cancer stem cell maintenance makes this pathway a potential target to exploit for addressing drug resistance. Accumulating evidences suggest a critical role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in imparting resistance across multiple cancers including PDAC, NSCLC, TNBC, etc. Here we present a comprehensive assessment of how Wnt/β-catenin pathway mediates cancer drug resistance in majority of the solid tumors. We take a deep dive into the Wnt/β-catenin signaling-mediated modulation of cellular and downstream molecular mechanisms and their impact on cancer resistance.

Targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer: Potential for advancement

Gastrointestinal cancers (GICs) are highly prevalent cancers that threaten human health worldwide. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has been reported to play a pivotal role in the carcinogenesis of GICs. Numerous interventions targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GICs are currently being tested in clinical trials with promising results. Unfortunately, there are no clinically approved drugs that effectively target this pathway. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the impact of clinical therapies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in GICs. By integrating data from bioinformatics databases and recent literature from the past five years, we examine the heterogeneous expression and regulatory mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin pathway genes and proteins in GICs. Specifically, we focus on expression patterns, mutation frequencies, and clinical prognoses to understand their implications for treatment strategies. Additionally, we discuss recent clinical trial efforts targeting this pathway. Understanding the inhibitors currently under clinical investigation may help optimize foundational research and clinical strategies. We hope that elucidating the current status of precision therapeutic stratification for patients targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway will guide future innovations in precision medicine for GICs.

The importance of the circRNA/Wnt axis in gliomas: Biological functions and clinical opportunities

Gliomas are among the most common cancers in the central nervous system, arising through various signaling pathways. One significant pathway is Wnt signaling, a tightly regulated process that plays a crucial role in gliomagenesis and development. The current study aims to explore the relationship between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in gliomas, considering the growing recognition of circRNAs in disease pathogenesis. A comprehensive review of recent research was conducted to investigate the roles of circRNAs in gliomas, focusing on their expression patterns and interactions with the Wnt signaling pathway. The analysis included studies examining circRNAs' function as microRNA sponges and their impact on glioma biology. The findings reveal that circRNAs are differentially expressed in gliomas and significantly influence the occurrence, growth, and metastasis of these tumors. Specifically, circRNAs interact with the Wnt signaling pathway, affecting glioma development and progression. This interaction highlights the importance of circRNAs in glioma pathophysiology. Understanding the regulatory network involving circRNAs and Wnt signaling offers valuable insights into glioma pathophysiology. CircRNAs hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and may serve as targets for novel therapeutic strategies in glioma treatment.

Unraveling the crosstalk: circRNAs and the wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a unique type of noncoding RNA molecule characterized by its closed-loop structure. Functionally versatile, circRNAs play pivotal roles in gene expression regulation, protein activity modulation, and participation in cell signaling processes. In the context of cancers of the digestive system, the Wnt signaling pathway holds particular significance. Anomalous activation of the Wnt pathway serves as a primary catalyst for the development of colorectal cancer. Extensive research underscores the notable participation of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway in the progression of digestive system tumors. These circRNAs exhibit pronounced dysregulation across esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma. Furthermore, the altered expression of circRNAs linked to the Wnt pathway correlates with prognostic factors in digestive system tumors. Additionally, circRNAs related to the Wnt pathway showcase potential as diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic markers within the realm of digestive system tumors. This comprehensive review outlines the interplay between circRNAs and the Wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system. It seeks to provide a comprehensive perspective on their association while delving into ongoing research that explores the clinical applications of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway.

Potential role of the intratumoral microbiota in colorectal cancer immunotherapy

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has been one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Despite the advances in current therapies, the mortality rate of CRC remains high. Among them, immunotherapy has achieved satisfactory results in some CRC patients, however, how to expand the use of immunotherapy in CRC patients remains an urgent challenge. Surprisingly, the intratumoral microbiota has been found in multiple tumor tissues, including CRC. It has been demonstrated that the intratumoral microbiota is associated with the progression and treatment of CRC, and is able to enhance or decrease anti-tumor immune responses via different mechanisms as well as influence the immunotherapy efficacy, providing new potential therapeutic targets for CRC immunotherapy. In this review, we focus on the characteristics of the intratumoral microbiota, its roles in the genesis and development of CRC, its modulation of anti-tumor immune responses and immunotherapy, and propose potential applications of the intratumoral microbiota in CRC immunotherapy. Additionally, we propose possible directions for future research on the intratumoral microbiota related to CRC immunotherapy.

STAMBPL1, transcriptionally regulated by SREBP1, promotes malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. STAM binding protein-like 1 (STAMBPL1), a key member of the COP9 signalosome subunit 5/serine protease 27/proteasome 26S subunit non-ATPase 7 (JAMM) family, is closely associated with tumor development. In this work, data from GSE101728 and GSE84402 chips were analyzed, and STAMBPL1 was selected as the target factor. This study aimed to reveal the potential function of STAMBPL1 in HCC. Clinical results showed that STAMBPL1 was significantly increased in tumor tissues of HCC patients, and its expression was strongly associated with tumor size and TNM stage. Furthermore, STAMBPL1-overexpressed Hep3B2.1-7 cell line or STAMBPL1-silenced SNU-182 cell line were established using lentivirus carrying cDNA encoding STAMBPL1 mRNA or shRNA targeting STAMBPL1, respectively. STAMBPL1-overexpressed cells exhibited a pronounced enhancement of proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Exogenous expression of STAMBPL1 increased the percentage of cells in the S phase and upregulated the expressions of CyclinD1 and Survivin. As expected, STAMBPL1 knockdown exhibited completely opposite effects, resulting in impaired tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, STAMBPL1 activated Wnt/β-catenin pathway and increased the expression of downstream cancer-promoting genes. Interestingly, we found that STAMBPL1 was transcriptionally regulated by sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), a modulator of lipid metabolism, as evidenced by luciferase reporter and chromatin-immunoprecipitation (Ch-IP) assays. Notably, STAMBPL1 overexpression increased lipid accumulation in HCC cells and xenograft tumors. Totally our findings suggest that STAMBPL1 plays a vital role in the tumorigenicity of HCC cells. Modulation of Wnt/β-catenin and lipid metabolism may contribute to its pro-cancer effects. STAMBPL1 may serve as a therapeutic target of HCC.

Diverse functions of Tribbles homolog 3 in cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target

Currently, cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and potential targeted drugs and molecular pathways for cancer development and progression have been a hot research topic worldwide. In recent years, the importance of the kinase superfamily in diseases has been well demonstrated by studies on various molecular mechanisms of kinases and the successful application of their inhibitors in diseases. Pseudokinases are members of the kinase superfamily, which have been increasingly documented to play a crucial role in cancers year after year. As a member of pseudokinases, tribbles homolog 3 (TRIB3) also exerts diverse functions in different cancers through different interacting proteins and molecular pathways, especially in tumor immunity, stemness, drug resistance, metabolism, and autophagy. In addition, peptide drugs targeting TRIB3 have high specificity in preclinical studies, which shows great promise for TRIB3 application in diseases including cancers. In this review, we dissect diverse functions played by TRIB3 in different cancers, describing the underlying mechanisms in detail. Notably, inhibitors and agonists currently available for TRIB3 are discussed, indicating the potential for TRIB3 as a therapeutic target.

Strategies for enhancing non-small cell lung cancer treatment: Integrating Chinese herbal medicines with epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors therapy

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) poses a global health threat, and epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) such as gefitinib, afatinib, and osimertinib have achieved significant success in clinical treatment. However, the emergence of resistance limits the long-term efficacy of these treatments, necessitating urgent exploration of novel EGFR-TKIs. This review provides an in-depth summary and exploration of the resistance mechanisms associated with EGFR-TKIs, with a specific focus on representative drugs like gefitinib, afatinib, and osimertinib. Additionally, the review introduces a therapeutic strategy involving the combination of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) and chemotherapy drugs, highlighting the potential role of CHMs in overcoming NSCLC resistance. Through systematic analysis, we elucidate the primary resistance mechanisms of EGFR-TKIs in NSCLC treatment, emphasizing CHMs as potential treatment medicines and providing a fresh perspective for the development of next-generation EGFR-TKIs. This comprehensive review aims to guide the application of CHMs in combination therapy for NSCLC management, fostering the development of more effective and comprehensive treatment modalities to ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

Fatty acid metabolism-related enzymes in colorectal cancer metastasis: from biological function to molecular mechanism

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly aggressive and life-threatening malignancy that metastasizes in ~50% of patients, posing significant challenges to patient survival and treatment. Fatty acid (FA) metabolism regulates proliferation, immune escape, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance in CRC. FA metabolism consists of three pathways: de novo synthesis, uptake, and FA oxidation (FAO). FA metabolism-related enzymes promote CRC metastasis by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), angiogenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT). Mechanistically, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, wnt/β-catenin pathway, and non-coding RNA signaling pathway are regulated by crosstalk of enzymes related to FA metabolism. Given the important role of FA metabolism in CRC metastasis, targeting FA metabolism-related enzymes and their signaling pathways is a potential strategy to treat CRC metastasis.

Relevance of harmful intratumoral microbiota in cancer progression and its clinical application

Microorganisms are closely related to human health, and changes in the microbiome can lead to the occurrence of diseases. With advances in sequencing technology and research, it has been discovered that intratumoral microbiota exists in various cancer tissues and differs in various cancers. Microorganism can colonize tumor tissues through intestine of damaged mucosal barrier, proximity to normal tissues and bloodstream circulation. Increasing evidence suggests that intratumoral microbiota promotes tumor progression by increasing genomic instability, affecting host immune systems, promoting tumor migration, and regulating tumor signaling pathways. This review article summarizes the latest progress in intratumoral microbiome research, including the development history of intratumoral microbiota, their composition and sources within tumors, their distribution in various cancer tissues, as well as their role in cancer development. Furthermore, the application of intratumoral microbiota in clinical settings is emphasized and we innovatively summarize the clinical trials involving microbial applications for cancer diagnosis and treatment across different countries.

Neutrophils exposed to a cholesterol metabolite secrete extracellular vesicles that promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness in breast cancer cells

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are emerging as critical mediators of intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we investigate the mechanisms by which sEVs derived from neutrophils treated with the cholesterol metabolite, 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), influence breast cancer progression. sEVs released from 27HC treated neutrophils enhance epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stem-like properties in breast cancer cells, resulting in loss of adherence, increased migratory capacity and resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Decreased microRNAs (miRs) within the sEVs resulted in activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway in recipient cells and suggest that this may be a predominant pathway for stem-like phenotype and EMT. Our findings underscore a novel mechanism by which 27HC-modulated neutrophils contribute to breast cancer pathophysiology through EV-mediated intercellular communication, suggesting potential therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.

TNNT1 accelerates migration, invasion and EMT progression in lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Clinically, most patients with lung cancer (LC) die from tumor spread and metastasis. Specific metastasis-related molecules can provide reference for clinical prediction of efficacy, evaluation of prognosis, and search for the best treatment plan. Troponin T1 (TNNT1) is highly expressed in various cancer tissues, which affects malignant behavior of tumor cells and is related to patients' survival and prognosis. However, the role and molecular mechanism of TNNT1 in LC invasion and metastasis have not yet been investigated.

METHODS

Gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) online analysis was used to analyze TNNT1 expression in LC tissues. Quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or western blot were performed to measure TNNT1 or epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related protein expression in LC cells. After TNNT1 knockdown, cell scratch healing and transwell assays were introduced to assess cell migration and invasion, respectively.

RESULTS

TNNT1 expression in LC tissues and cells was increased. TNNT1 knockdown notably impaired LC cell migration, invasion and EMT. TNNT1 knockdown inhibited Wnt/β-catenin pathway of LC cells. Lithium chloride (LiCl) addition partially restored the inhibition of TNNT1 knockdown on migration, invasion, EMT and Wnt/β-catenin of LC cells.

CONCLUSION

TNNT1 knockdown attenuated LC migration, invasion and EMT, possibly through Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Targeting bacterial metabolites in tumor for cancer therapy: An alternative approach for targeting tumor-associated bacteria

Emerging evidence reveal that tumor-associated bacteria (TAB) can facilitate the initiation and progression of multiple types of cancer. Recent work has emphasized the significant role of intestinal microbiota, particularly bacteria, plays in affecting responses to chemo- and immuno-therapies. Hence, it seems feasible to improve cancer treatment outcomes by targeting intestinal bacteria. While considering variable richness of the intestinal microbiota and diverse components among individuals, direct manipulating the gut microbiota is complicated in clinic. Tumor initiation and progression requires the gut microbiota-derived metabolites to contact and reprogram neoplastic cells. Hence, directly targeting tumor-associated bacteria metabolites may have the potential to provide alternative and innovative strategies to bypass the gut microbiota for cancer therapy. As such, there are great opportunities to explore holistic approaches that incorporates TAB-derived metabolites and related metabolic signals modulation for cancer therapy. In this review, we will focus on key opportunistic areas by targeting TAB-derived metabolites and related metabolic signals, but not bacteria itself, for cancer treatment, and elucidate future challenges that need to be addressed in this emerging field.

TLK2 promotes progression of hepatocellular carcinoma through Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a widespread cancer worldwide, ranking as the fifth most frequent cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. According to comprehensive research, TLK2, a phosphorylated kinase, has been discovered to play a crucial role in promoting tumor development. However, the prognostic significance and influence of TLK2 on hepatocellular carcinoma tumor cells and the immune microenvironment remain unexplored, warranting further investigation. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of TLK2 in promoting the development of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

The present study utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and other databases as training sets to examine the expression of TLK2 and its prognostic significance. The findings were subsequently validated through cell proliferation assays and cell colony assays. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was employed to investigate the tumor-related biological processes associated with TLK2 in hepatocellular carcinoma, while the relationship between TLK2 expression and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was analyzed via TCGA dataset analysis. Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays were used to confirm the experimental results.

Results

TLK2 showed higher expression levels in tumor tissues than in normal tissues. Alpha fetoprotein (AFP), T stage, pathological stage, and histological grade were significantly associated with TLK2 expression. High TLK2 expression correlated with worse overall survival (OS) [hazard ratio (HR) =1.62, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14-2.29, P=0.007], progression-free survival (PFS) (HR =1.88, 95% CI: 1.40-2.52, P<0.001) and disease specific survival (DSS) (HR =1.86, 95% CI: 1.18-2.93, P=0.007) in the training and validation sets. Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that TLK2 was an independent prognostic factor. GSEA showed that TLK2 was significantly enriched in tumor-related biological processes. TLK2 induced the activation of β-catenin signaling, resulting in sustained tumor growth. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and colony formation assays demonstrated that TLK2 could promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Furthermore, TLK2 showed a significant association with β-catenin in the Wnt pathway.

Conclusions

TLK2 represents an independent prognostic factor in hepatocellular carcinoma and can promote cancer progression via the β-catenin signaling pathway.

LncRNA ZFHX4-AS1 as a novel biomarker in adrenocortical carcinoma

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and highly aggressive malignant tumor. Currently, there is a lack of reliable prognostic markers in clinical practice. Extensive research has shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) are critical factors in the initiation and progression of cancer, closely associated with early diagnosis and prognosis. Previous studies have identified that ZFHX4 antisense RNA 1 (ZFHX4-AS1) is aberrantly expressed in various cancers and is associated with poor outcomes. This study investigates whether ZFHX4-AS1 affects the prognosis of ACC patients and, if so, the potential mechanisms involved.

Methods

In this study, utilizing four multi-center cohorts from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) program and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), we validated the prognostic capability of ZFHX4-AS1 in ACC patients through Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, cox regression models, and nomograms. Then, we explored the biological functions of ZFHX4-AS1 using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, and analyses of somatic mutations and copy number variation (CNV). Finally, in vitro experiments were conducted to further validate the impact of ZFHX4-AS1 on proliferation and migration capabilities of ACC cell lines.

Results

Survival analysis indicated that patients in the high ZFHX4-AS1 expression group of ACC had worse prognosis. Cox regression analyses suggested that ZFHX4-AS1 levels were independent risk factors for prognosis. Subsequently, we constructed nomograms based on clinical features and ZFHX4-AS1 levels, demonstrating good predictive performance under the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Analysis based on somatic mutations and CNV revealed that CTNNB1 and 9p21.3-Del drove the expression of ZFHX4-AS1. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, and Transwell assays confirmed that knockdown of ZFHX4-AS1 inhibited proliferation and migration of ACC cells.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that ZFHX4-AS1 has a reliable predictive value for the prognosis of ACC patients and is a promising biomarker.

Unraveling Cancer's Wnt Signaling: Dynamic Control through Protein Kinase Regulation

Since the initial identification of oncogenic Wnt in mice and Drosophila, the Wnt signaling pathway has been subjected to thorough and extensive investigation. Persistent activation of Wnt signaling exerts diverse cancer characteristics, encompassing tumor initiation, tumor growth, cell senescence, cell death, differentiation, and metastasis. Here we review the principal signaling mechanisms and the regulatory influence of pathway-intrinsic and extrinsic kinases on cancer progression. Additionally, we underscore the divergences and intricate interplays of the canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways and their critical influence in cancer pathophysiology, exhibiting both growth-promoting and growth-suppressing roles across diverse cancer types.

The upregulation of POLR3G correlates with increased malignancy of bladder urothelium

Bladder cancer remains a significant health challenge due to its high recurrence and progression rates. This study aims to evaluate the role of POLR3G in the development and progression of bladder cancer and the potential of POLR3G to serve as a novel therapeutic target. We constructed a bladder cancer model in Wistar rats by administering N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN), which successfully induced a transition from normal mucosa to hyperplasia and ultimately to urothelial carcinoma. We observed a progressive upregulation of POLR3G expression during the bladder cancer development and progression. To investigate the functional role of POLR3G, we performed functional experiments in bladder cancer cell lines. The results demonstrated that knocking down POLR3G significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. We further conducted RNA sequencing on POLR3G-knockdown bladder cancer cells, and Metascape was employed to perform the functional enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Enrichment analysis revealed the enrichment of DEGs in the RNA polymerase and apoptotic cleavage of cellular proteins pathways, as well as their involvement in the Wnt and MAPK signaling pathways. The downregulation of Wnt pathway-related proteins such as Wnt5a/b, DVL2, LRP-6, and phosphorylated LRP-6 upon POLR3G knockdown was further confirmed by Western blotting, indicating that POLR3G might influence bladder cancer behavior through the Wnt signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that POLR3G plays a crucial role in bladder cancer progression and could serve as a potential therapeutic target. Future studies should focus on the detailed mechanisms by which POLR3G regulates these signaling pathways and its potential as a biomarker for early detection and prognosis of bladder cancer.

Wnt/β-catenin pathway as a potential target for Parkinson's disease: a cohort study of romosozumab using routinely collected health data in Japan

Introduction

Romosozumab is a monoclonal antibody approved for osteoporosis which targets sclerostin, an endogenous inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Given the essential roles of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in various tissues, we hypothesized romosozumab treatment may influence other conditions.

Methods

This cohort study included patients prescribed romosozumab or parathyroid receptor (PTHR) agonists after 1 January 2019, using a Japanese electronic medical record database. The outcomes of interest included autoimmune disease, interstitial pneumonia, cardiovascular outcome, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease (PD), serious infections, and malignancies. A stabilized inverse probability-weighted Cox proportional hazard model was used to estimate the hazard ratios. Age- and gender-based subgroup analyses were conducted. Exploratory outcomes based on three-digit International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision-based were also examined.

Results

In total, 2,673 patients treated with romosozumab and 5,980 treated with PTHR agonists were identified, respectively. While most outcomes of interest showed no association with romosozumab, the risk of PD decreased with romosozumab (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 0.37 [0.14-0.94]) compared with PTHR agonist. Regarding the cardiovascular outcome, no notable association was identified overall; however, gender-based subgroup analysis suggested that male sex may be a potential risk factor with romosozumab treatment. Only 16 of 903 exploratory outcomes were potentially influenced by romosozumab.

Conclusion

Romosozumab lowered the risk of PD development compared with PTHR agonist. The study also highlights the utility of routinely collected health data for drug repositioning. While further validation is warranted, the findings suggest that the Wnt-β-catenin pathway holds promise as a therapeutic target for PD.

Why Is Wnt/β-Catenin Not Yet Targeted in Routine Cancer Care?

Despite significant progress in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, the still limited number of therapeutic options is an obstacle towards increasing the cancer cure rate. In recent years, many efforts were put forth to develop therapeutics that selectively target different components of the oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These include small molecule inhibitors, antibodies, and more recently, gene-based approaches. Although some of them showed promising outcomes in clinical trials, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is still not targeted in routine clinical practice for cancer management. As for most anticancer treatments, a critical limitation to the use of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors is their therapeutic index, i.e., the difficulty of combining effective anticancer activity with acceptable toxicity. Protecting healthy tissues from the effects of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors is a major issue due to the vital role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in adult tissue homeostasis and regeneration. In this review, we provide an up-to-date summary of clinical trials on Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitors, examine their anti-tumor activity and associated adverse events, and explore strategies under development to improve the benefit/risk profile of this therapeutic approach.

Ubiquitin-modifying enzymes in thyroid cancer：Mechanisms and functions

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine system, and evidence suggests that post-translational modifications (PTMs) and epigenetic alterations play an important role in its development. Recently, there has been increasing evidence linking dysregulation of ubiquitinating enzymes and deubiquitinases with thyroid cancer. This review aims to summarize our current understanding of the role of ubiquitination-modifying enzymes in thyroid cancer, including their regulation of oncogenic pathways and oncogenic proteins. The role of ubiquitination-modifying enzymes in thyroid cancer development and progression requires further study, which will provide new insights into thyroid cancer prevention, treatment and the development of novel agents.

HIPK2 in Colon Cancer: A Potential Biomarker for Tumor Progression and Response to Therapies

Colon cancer, one of the most common and fatal cancers worldwide, is characterized by stepwise accumulation of specific genetic alterations in tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes, leading to tumor growth and metastasis. HIPK2 (homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 2) is a serine/threonine protein kinase and a "bona fide" oncosuppressor protein. Its activation inhibits tumor growth mainly by promoting apoptosis, while its inactivation increases tumorigenicity and resistance to therapies of many different cancer types, including colon cancer. HIPK2 interacts with many molecular pathways by means of its kinase activity or transcriptional co-repressor function modulating cell growth and apoptosis, invasion, angiogenesis, inflammation and hypoxia. HIPK2 has been shown to participate in several molecular pathways involved in colon cancer including p53, Wnt/β-catenin and the newly identified nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2) p45-related factor 2 (NRF2). HIPK2 also plays a role in tumor-host interaction in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by inducing angiogenesis and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) differentiation. The aim of this review is to assess the role of HIPK2 in colon cancer and the underlying molecular pathways for a better understanding of its involvement in colon cancer carcinogenesis and response to therapies, which will likely pave the way for novel colon cancer therapies.

Canonical WNT/β-catenin signaling upregulates aerobic glycolysis in diverse cancer types

Despite many efforts, a comprehensive understanding and clarification of the intricate connections within cancer cell metabolism remain elusive. This might pertain to intracellular dynamics and the complex interplay between cancer cells, and cells with the tumor stroma. Almost a century ago, Otto Warburg found that cancer cells exhibit a glycolytic phenotype, which continues to be a subject of thorough investigation. Past and ongoing investigations have demonstrated intricate mechanisms by which tumors modulate their functionality by utilizing extracellular glucose as a substrate, thereby sustaining the essential proliferation of cancer cells. This concept of "aerobic glycolysis," where cancer cells (even in the presence of enough oxygen) metabolize glucose to produce lactate plays a critical role in cancer progression and is regulated by various signaling pathways. Recent research has revealed that the canonical wingless-related integrated site (WNT) pathway promotes aerobic glycolysis, directly and indirectly, thereby influencing cancer development and progression. The present review seeks to gather knowledge about how the WNT/β-catenin pathway influences aerobic glycolysis, referring to relevant studies in different types of cancer. Furthermore, we propose the concept of impeding the glycolytic phenotype of tumors by employing specific inhibitors that target WNT/β-catenin signaling.

Rupatadine inhibits colorectal cancer cell proliferation through the PIP5K1A/Akt/CDK2 pathway

BACKGROUND

Phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase type 1 alpha (PIP5K1A) acts upstream of the Akt regulatory pathway and is abnormally expressed in many types of malignancies. However, the role and mechanism of PIP5K1A in colorectal cancer (CRC) have not yet been reported. In this study, we aimed to determine the association between PIP5K1A and progression of CRC and assess the efficacy and mechanism by which rupatadine targets PIP5K1A.

METHODS

Firstly, expression and function of PIP5K1A in CRC were investigated by human colon cancer tissue chip analysis and cell proliferation assay. Next, rupatadine was screened by computational screening and cytotoxicity assay and interactions between PIP5K1A and rupatadine assessed by kinase activity detection assay and bio-layer interferometry analysis. Next, rupatadine's anti-tumor effect was evaluated by in vivo and in vitro pharmacodynamic assays. Finally, rupatadine's anti-tumor mechanism was explored by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

We found that PIP5K1A exerts tumor-promoting effects as a proto-oncogene in CRC and aberrant PIP5K1A expression correlates with CRC malignancy. We also found that rupatadine down-regulates cyclin-dependent kinase 2 and cyclin D1 protein expression by inhibiting the PIP5K1A/Akt/GSK-3β pathway, induces cell cycle arrest, and inhibits CRC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

PIP5K1A is a potential drug target for treating CRC. Rupatadine, which targets PIP5K1A, could serve as a new option for treating CRC, its therapeutic mechanism being related to regulation of the Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway.

Angelica sinensis polysaccharide suppresses the Wnt/β-catenin-mediated malignant biological behaviors of breast cancer cells via the miR-3187-3p/PCDH10 axis

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in women. Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (ASP) is one of the main components extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Angelica sinensis. Research has shown that ASP affects the progression of various cancers by regulating miRNA expression. This study aimed to explore the specific molecular mechanism by which ASP regulates BC progression through miR-3187-3p. After the overexpression or knockdown of miR-3187-3p and PDCH10 in BC cells, the proliferation, migration, invasion, and phenotype of BC cells were evaluated after ASP treatment. Bioinformatics software was used to predict the target genes of miR-3187-3p, and luciferase gene reporter experiments reconfirmed the targeted binding relationship. Subcutaneous tumor formation experiments were conducted in nude mice after the injection of BC cells. Western blot and Ki-67 immunostaining were performed on the tumor tissues. The results indicate that ASP can significantly inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC cells. ASP can inhibit the expression of miR-3187-3p in BC cells and upregulate the expression of PDCH10 by inhibiting miR-3187-3p. A regulatory relationship exists between miR-3187-3p and PDCH10. ASP can inhibit the expression of β-catenin and phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3β (p-GSK-3β) proteins through miR-3187-3p/PDCH10 and prevent the occurrence of malignant biological behavior in BC. Overall, this study revealed the potential mechanism by which ASP inhibits the BC process. ASP mediates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by affecting the miR-3187-3p/PDCH10 molecular axis, thereby inhibiting the proliferation, migration, invasion, and other malignant biological behaviors of BC cells.

Investigating the protective effects of Astragalus polysaccharides on cyclophosphamide-induced bone marrow suppression in mice and bone mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

This study determines the role and mechanism of APS in cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression in mice and bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) cell model.

METHODS

Cy-induced myelosuppression mice and BMSCs cell model were established. Fifty C57BL/6 mice (weighing 20 ± 2 g) were randomly divided into five groups. Femur and tibia samples, bone marrow samples, and blood samples were collected 3 days after the last injection of Cy. Histopathology changes and cell apoptosis were detected. Cell viability, apoptosis, cycle distribution, reactive oxygen species activity, osteogenesis ability, and protein levels were detected. γ-H2AX and senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity expression was detected by immunofluorescence. Cy-induced senescence and Wnt/β-catenin related protein levels were detected using western blotting.

RESULTS

The results showed that APS effectively induced Cy-induced histological injury and cell apoptosis rate. After treated with APS, ROS and ALP levels were significantly increased. In BMSCs, cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle distribution were also influenced by APS treatment. Compared with the control group, cell viability was significantly increased, the cell apoptosis rate was decreased while the number of cells remained in the G0-G1 phase was increased. Meanwhile, ROS levels were significantly increased in APS group. Cell senescence and Wnt/β-catenin related protein (γ-H2AX, SA-β-gal, p21, p16, p-β-catenin/ β-catenin, c-Myc, and AXIN2) levels were also altered both in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, the effects of APS were reversed by BML-284.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that APS protected Cy-induced myelosuppression through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and APS is a potential therapeutic drug for Cy-induced myelosuppression.

Elucidation of molecular basis of osteolytic bone lesions in advanced multiple myeloma

Osteolytic bone lesion is a major cause of lower quality of life and poor prognosis in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), but molecular pathogenesis of the osteolytic process in MM remains elusive. Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3L) was reported to be elevated in bone marrow (BM) and blood of patients with advanced MM who often show osteolysis. Here, we investigated a functional link of FLT3L to osteolytic process in MM. We recruited 86, 306, and 52 patients with MM, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), respectively. FLT3L levels of patients with hematologic malignancies were measured in BM-derived plasma and found to be significantly higher in MM than in AML or ALL, which rarely show osteolysis. FLT3L levels were further elevated in MM patients with bone lesion compared with patients without bone lesion. In vitro cell-based assays showed that the administration of FLT3L to HEK293T, HeLa, and U2OS cells led to an increase in the DKK1 transcript level through STAT3 phosphorylation at tyrosine 705. WNT reporter assay showed that FLT3L treatment reduced WNT signaling and nuclear translocation of β-catenin. These results collectively show that the FLT3L-STAT3-DKK1 pathway inhibits WNT signaling-mediated bone formation in MM, which can cause osteolytic bone lesion. Finally, transcriptomic profiles revealed that FLT3L and DKK1 were predominantly elevated in the hyperdiploidy subtype of MM. Taken together, FLT3L can serve as a promising biomarker for predicting osteolytic bone lesion and also a potential therapeutic target to prohibit the progression of the osteolytic process in MM with hyperdiploidy.

Mechanisms of resistance to trastuzumab in HER2-positive gastric cancer

Gastric cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive cases account for approximately 20% of the total cases. Currently, trastuzumab + chemotherapy is the recommended first-line treatment for patients with HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer, and the combination has exhibited definite efficacy in HER2-targeted therapy. However, the emergence of drug resistance during treatment considerably reduces its effectiveness; thus, it is imperative to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying resistance. In the present review article, we comprehensively introduce multiple mechanisms underlying resistance to trastuzumab in HER2-positive gastric cancer cases, aiming to provide insights for rectifying issues associated with resistance to trastuzumab and devising subsequent treatment strategies.

The roles and mechanisms of APOL1 in the development of colorectal cancer

Background

Research has demonstrated that apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) has a role in the emergence and progression of a number of malignant cancers. It is unclear, however, how APOL1 functions in colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we examined the possible molecular processes underlying APOL1's biological role in CRC.

Methods

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to identify APOL1 expression in patients with CRC and the cell line of cancer tissue. Following transfection of human colon carcinoma cells (HCT116) and human colon adenocarcinoma cells (SW1116) with sh-APOL1, the effects of APOL1 on the biological behavior of CRC cell lines were examined. In nude mice, the effect of APOL1 on tumor growth was noted. The protein interaction between APOL1 and RUNX1 was detected via coimmunoprecipitation. The expression of relevant proteins and cell biological behaviors were examined to confirm the APOL1-RUNX1 pathway in CRC cell lines.

Results

The CRC tissues and cells exhibited elevated expression of APOL1. HCT116 and SW1116 cells' proliferation, migration, and invasion were suppressed by sh-APOL1, and sh-APOL1 also increased the expression of E-cadherin and decreased the expression of RUNX1, cyclin D1, β-catenin, N-cadherin, and vimentin. APOL1 bound to the RUNX1 protein and regulated its protein levels. The counteractive effect of sh-APOL1 epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells was counteracted by the overexpression of RUNX1. By silencing APOL1, the Wnt-β-catenin pathway was able to restrain EMT and regulate the biological behavior processes in CRC cells.

Conclusions

APOL1 has potential as a diagnostic biomarker for CRC. By preventing the Wnt-β-catenin pathway from being activated, the sh-APOL1-binding protein RUNX1 inhibited the EMT and biological behavior of CRC cells.

Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Urothelial Cancer: From Scientific Rationale to Clinical Development

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have been a significant advancement in cancer therapy, particularly for urothelial cancer (UC). These innovative treatments, originally developed for hematological malignancies, use target-specific monoclonal antibodies linked to potent cytotoxic agents. This rational drug design efficiently delivers cancer cell-killing agents to cells expressing specific surface proteins, which are abundant in UC owing to their high antigen expression. UC is an ideal candidate for ADC therapy, as it enhances on-target efficacy while mitigating systemic toxicity. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in understanding the biology and mechanisms of tumor progression in UC. However, despite the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors, advanced UC is characterized by rapid progression and poor survival rates. Targeted therapies that have been developed include the anti-nectin 4 ADC enfortumab vedotin and the fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor erdafitinib. Enfortumab vedotin has shown efficacy in prospective studies in patients with advanced UC, alone and in combination with pembrolizumab. The anti-Trop-2 ADC sacituzumab govitecan has also demonstrated effectiveness in single-armed studies. This review highlights the mechanism of action of ADCs, their application in mono- and combination therapies, primary mechanisms of resistance, and future perspectives for their clinical use in UC treatment. ADCs have proven to be an increasingly vital component of the therapeutic landscape for urothelial carcinoma, filling a gap in the treatment of this progressive disease.

Research progress of ZIC5 for tumor metastasis

The zinc finger protein of the cerebellum (ZIC) family comprises five members (ZIC1-5), homologous with the odd-paired (OPA) gene in Drosophila melanogila. These transcription factors contain five Cys2His zinc finger domains, constituting one of the most abundant transcription factor families in human cells. ZIC proteins significantly contribute to transcriptional regulation and chromatin remodeling. As a member of the ZIC family, ZIC5 is essential for animal growth and development. Numerous studies have investigated the connection between ZIC proteins and cancer as well as tumor metastases in recent years. Many studies have found that within tumor tissues, the transcription and translation processes increase the expression of ZIC5 which is linked to tumor aggressiveness. This review aims to provide an objective summary of the impact of ZIC5 on tumor metastasis and consider the potential application of ZIC5 targets in both tumor therapy and the early detection of cancer.

Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, encompassing development, tissue homeostasis, and cell proliferation. Under normal physiological conditions, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is meticulously regulated. However, aberrant activation of this pathway and downstream target genes can occur due to mutations in key components of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, epigenetic modifications, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways. Consequently, these dysregulations contribute significantly to tumor initiation and progression. Therapies targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling transduction have exhibited promising prospects and potential for tumor treatment. An increasing number of medications targeting this pathway are continuously being developed and validated. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the latest advances in our understanding of the role played by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in carcinogenesis and targeted therapy, providing valuable insights into acknowledging current opportunities and challenges associated with targeting this signaling pathway in cancer research and treatment.

Calpain 8 as a potential biomarker regulates the progression of pancreatic cancer via EMT and AKT/ERK pathway

Calpain is a non-lysozyme, calcium-dependent intracellular cysteine protease that has been shown to play a role in tumor proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of calpain expression is closely related to tumorigenesis. However, the role of calpain-8 (CAPN8), as a member of the calpain family, in pancreatic cancer (PC) is remains unclear. In elucidating the mechanism of CAPN8 in PC, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments were conducted. The TCGA database was used to explore the expression level of CAPN8, and the results in PC tissues and cell lines were verified. Then, the correlation between CAPN8 and clinicopathological features was analyzed. Additionaly, promoter methylation, immune infiltration, and GO/KEGG enrichment analyses were performed. Lastly, the molecular mechanism of CAPN8 in PC was investigated by using cell counting kit (CCK) 8, transwell, wound healing, Western blot assays, and so on. Results indicate that CAPN8 was highly expressed in PC and correlated with poor prognosis and advanced TNM stage. In addition, a low level of immune infiltration was closely associated with the high expression level of CAPN8. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that CAPN8 is a potential biomarker that regulates progression of PC via EMT and the AKT/ERK pathway. SIGNIFICANCE: Through comprehensive biological information and in vitro experiments, CAPN8 has been confirmed to play an important role in regulating pancreatic cancer (PC) proliferation, migration and invasion. CAPN8 is found to be closely related to the diagnosis, survival and prognosis of PC. Above all, CAPN8 may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of PC.

Mechanism of ERBB2 gene overexpression by the formation of super-enhancer with genomic structural abnormalities in lung adenocarcinoma without clinically actionable genetic alterations

BACKGROUND

In an extensive genomic analysis of lung adenocarcinomas (LUADs), driver mutations have been recognized as potential targets for molecular therapy. However, there remain cases where target genes are not identified. Super-enhancers and structural variants are frequently identified in several hundred loci per case. Despite this, most cancer research has approached the analysis of these data sets separately, without merging and comparing the data, and there are no examples of integrated analysis in LUAD.

METHODS

We performed an integrated analysis of super-enhancers and structural variants in a cohort of 174 LUAD cases that lacked clinically actionable genetic alterations. To achieve this, we conducted both WGS and H3K27Ac ChIP-seq analyses using samples with driver gene mutations and those without, allowing for a comprehensive investigation of the potential roles of super-enhancer in LUAD cases.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that most genes situated in these overlapped regions were associated with known and previously unknown driver genes and aberrant expression resulting from the formation of super-enhancers accompanied by genomic structural abnormalities. Hi-C and long-read sequencing data further corroborated this insight. When we employed CRISPR-Cas9 to induce structural abnormalities that mimicked cases with outlier ERBB2 gene expression, we observed an elevation in ERBB2 expression. These abnormalities are associated with a higher risk of recurrence after surgery, irrespective of the presence or absence of driver mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that aberrant gene expression linked to structural polymorphisms can significantly impact personalized cancer treatment by facilitating the identification of driver mutations and prognostic factors, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of LUAD pathogenesis.

Wnt signaling in gastric cancer: current progress and future prospects

Levels of the Wnt pathway components are abnormally altered in gastric cancer cells, leading to malignant cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, poor prognosis and chemoresistance. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism of Wnt signaling pathway in gastric cancer. We systematically reviewed the molecular mechanisms of the Wnt pathway in gastric cancer development; and summarize the progression and the challenges of research on molecular agents of the Wnt pathway.

Signaling pathways in colorectal cancer implications for the target therapies

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) stands as a pressing global health issue, marked by the unbridled proliferation of immature cells influenced by multifaceted internal and external factors. Numerous studies have explored the intricate mechanisms of tumorigenesis in CRC, with a primary emphasis on signaling pathways, particularly those associated with growth factors and chemokines. However, the sheer diversity of molecular targets introduces complexity into the selection of targeted therapies, posing a significant challenge in achieving treatment precision. The quest for an effective CRC treatment is further complicated by the absence of pathological insights into the mutations or alterations occurring in tumor cells. This study reveals the transfer of signaling from the cell membrane to the nucleus, unveiling recent advancements in this crucial cellular process. By shedding light on this novel dimension, the research enhances our understanding of the molecular intricacies underlying CRC, providing a potential avenue for breakthroughs in targeted therapeutic strategies. In addition, the study comprehensively outlines the potential immune responses incited by the aberrant activation of signaling pathways, with a specific focus on immune cells, cytokines, and their collective impact on the dynamic landscape of drug development. This research not only contributes significantly to advancing CRC treatment and molecular medicine but also lays the groundwork for future breakthroughs and clinical trials, fostering optimism for improved outcomes and refined approaches in combating colorectal carcinoma.

Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Pediatric Tumors: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment

The evolutionarily conserved Wnt signaling has a significant and diverse role in maintaining cell homeostasis and tissue maintenance. It is necessary in the regulation of crucial biological functions such as embryonal development, proliferation, differentiation, cell fate, and stem cell pluripotency. The deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling often leads to various diseases, including cancer and non-cancer diseases. The role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in adult tumors has been extensively studied in literature. Although the Wnt signaling pathway has been well explored and recognized to play a role in the initiation and progression of cancer, there is still a lack of understanding on how it affects pediatric tumors. This review discusses the recent developments of this signaling pathway in pediatric tumors. We also focus on understanding how different types of variations in Wnt signaling pathway contribute to cancer development and provide an insight of tissue specific mutations that lead to clinical progression of these tumors.

Endothelial RSPO3 mediates pulmonary endothelial regeneration by LGR4-dependent activation of β-catenin and ILK signaling pathways after inflammatory vascular injury

Endothelial repair is essential for restoring tissue fluid homeostasis following lung injury. R-spondin3 (RSPO3), a secreted protein mainly produced by endothelial cells (ECs), has shown its protective effect on endothelium. However, the specific mechanisms remain unknown. To explore whether and how RSPO3 regulates endothelial regeneration after inflammatory vascular injury, the role of RSPO3 in sepsis-induced pulmonary endothelial injury was investigated in EC-specific RSPO3 knockdown, inducible EC-specific RSPO3 deletion mice, EC-specific RSPO3 overexpression mice, systemic RSPO3-administration mice, in isolated mouse lung vascular endothelial cells (MLVECs), and in plasma from septic patients. Here we show that plasma RSPO3 levels are decreased in septic patients and correlated with endothelial injury markers and PaO2/FiO2 index. Both pulmonary EC-specific knockdown of RSPO3 and inducible EC-specific RSPO3 deletion inhibit pulmonary ECs proliferation and exacerbate ECs injury, whereas intra-pulmonary EC-specific RSPO3 overexpression promotes endothelial recovery and attenuates ECs injury during endotoxemia. We show that RSPO3 mediates pulmonary endothelial regeneration by a LGR4-dependent manner. Except for β-catenin, integrin-linked kinase (ILK)/Akt is also identified as a novel downstream effector of RSPO3/LGR4 signaling. These results conclude that EC-derived RSPO3 mediates pulmonary endothelial regeneration by LGR4-dependent activation of β-catenin and ILK signaling pathways after inflammatory vascular injury.

Wnt/β-catenin signalling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and crosslink signalling in colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC), with its significant incidence and metastatic rates, profoundly affects human health. A common oncogenic event in CRC is the aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway, which drives both the initiation and progression of the disease. Persistent Wnt/β-catenin signalling facilitates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which accelerates CRC invasion and metastasis. This review provides a summary of recent molecular studies on the role of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling axis in regulating EMT in CRC cells, which triggers metastatic pathogenesis. We present a comprehensive examination of the EMT process and its transcriptional controllers, with an emphasis on the crucial functions of β-catenin, EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs). We also review recent evidences showing that hyperactive Wnt/β-catenin signalling triggers EMT and metastatic phenotypes in CRC via "Destruction complex" of β-catenin mechanisms. Potential therapeutic and challenges approache to suppress EMT and prevent CRC cells metastasis by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signalling are also discussed. These include direct β-catenin inhibitors and novel targets of the Wnt pathway, and finally highlight novel potential combinational treatment options based on the inhibition of the Wnt pathway.

The recent update and advancements of natural products in targeting the Wnt/β-Catenin pathway for cancer prevention and therapeutics

The Wnt/β-Catenin pathway (Wnt/β-CatP) is implicated in accelerating carcinogenesis and cancer progression, contributing to increased morbidity and treatment resistance. Even though it holds promise as a focus for cancer treatment, its intricate nature and diverse physiological effects pose significant challenges. Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in this domain, with numerous natural products demonstrating promising preclinical anti-tumor effects and identified as inhibitors of the Wnt/β-CatP through various upstream and downstream mechanisms. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of Wnt/β-Cat-targeted cancer therapy, examining the impact of natural products on Wnt/β-Cat signaling in both cancer prevention and therapeutic contexts. A comprehensive search was conducted on scientific databases like SciFinder, PubMed, and Google Scholar to retrieve relevant literature on Wnt-signaling, natural products, β-Catenin (β-Cat), and cancer from 2020 to January 2024. As per the analysis of the relevant reference within the specified period, it has been noted that a total of 58 phytoconstituents, predominantly phenolics, followed by triterpenoids and several other classes, along with a limited number of plant extracts, have exhibited activity targeting the Wnt/β-CatP. Most β-Cat regulating modulators restrict cancer cell development by suppressing β-Cat expression, facilitating proteasomal degradation, and inhibiting nuclear translocation. Multiple approaches have been devised to block the activity of β-Cat in cancer therapy, a key factor in cancer progression, leading to the discovery of various Wnt/β-CatP regulators. However, their exploration remains limited, necessitating further research using clinical models for potential clinical use in cancer prevention and therapeutics.

Vitamin D in tuberous sclerosis complex-associated tumors

Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) have been used to treat pediatric tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-associated tumors, particularly in cases with contraindications to surgery or difficulties in complete tumor resection. However, some patients experience side effects and tumor regression after discontinuation of the treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop drugs that can be used in combination with mTORi to increase their efficacy and minimize their side effects. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-D), which has anticancer properties, may be a promising candidate for adjuvant or alternative therapy because TSC and cancer cells share common mechanisms, including angiogenesis, cell growth, and proliferation. Vitamin D receptor-mediated signaling can be epigenetically modified and plays an important role in susceptibility to 1,25-D. Therefore, vitamin D signaling may be a promising drug target, and in vitro studies are required to evaluate the efficacy of 1,25-D in TSC-associated tumors, brain development, and core symptoms of psychiatric disorders.

Immunohistochemical Investigation into Protein Expression Patterns of FOXO4, IRF8 and LEF1 in Canine Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most common type of primary bone malignancy in people and dogs. Our previous molecular comparisons of canine OSA against healthy bone resulted in the identification of differentially expressed protein-expressing genes (forkhead box protein O4 (FOXO4), interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF8), and lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1)). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and H-scoring provided semi-quantitative assessment of nuclear and cytoplasmic staining alongside qualitative data to contextualise staining (n = 26 patients). FOXO4 was expressed predominantly in the cytoplasm with significantly lower nuclear H-scores. IRF8 H-scores ranged from 0 to 3 throughout the cohort in the nucleus and cytoplasm. LEF1 was expressed in all patients with significantly lower cytoplasmic staining compared to nuclear. No sex or anatomical location differences were observed. While reduced levels of FOXO4 might indicate malignancy, the weak or absent protein expression limits its primary use as diagnostic tumour marker. IRF8 and LEF1 have more potential for prognostic and diagnostic uses and facilitate further understanding of their roles within their respective molecular pathways, including Wnt/beta-catenin/LEF1 signalling and differential regulation of tumour suppressor genes. Deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in OSA are essential contributions towards the development of novel diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment options in human and veterinary medicine contexts.

Recent Insights into the Roles of PEST-Containing Nuclear Protein

PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP), a short-lived small nuclear protein with 178 amino acids, is a nuclear protein containing two PEST sequences. PCNP is highly expressed in several malignant tumors such as cervical cancer, rectal cancer, and lung cancer. It is also associated with cell cycle regulation and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) and Wnt signaling pathways during tumor growth. The present article discuss how PCNP regulates the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Wnt signaling pathways and related proteins, and the ubiquitination of PCNP regulates tumor cell cycle as well as the progress of the application of PCNP in the pathophysiology and treatment of colon cancer, human ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and oral squamous cell carcinoma. The main relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed, with keywords such as PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP), cancer (tumor), and signaling pathways as inclusion/exclusion criteria. Relevant references has been included and cited in the manuscript.

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma metastases to kidney and renal hilar lymph nodes through epithelial-mesenchymal transition: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer (EC) metastasized to the kidney is extremely rare clinically. Here, we present a case of metachronous renal metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

CASE PRESENTATION

A 60-year-old patient, male, complained of left waist pain for 5 days, 11 months after radical esophagectomy. Laboratory tests revealed haematuria. Both CT and PET-CT scan showed retroperitoneal lymph nodes and left renal masses. Subsequently the patient received a left nephrectomy and lymph nodes resection, and squamous cell carcinoma of kidney and renal hilar lymph nodes was diagnosed, combined with morphology, medical history and immunophenotype, it was presumed to be metastasis of ESCC through the EMT pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The renal metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma should be considered in patients with history of EC, although this is very rare. Histopathological examination combined with immunochemical detection is helpful in differential diagnosis.

Aerobic exercise training engages the canonical wnt pathway to improve pulmonary function and inflammation in COPD

BACKGROUND

We studied whether the exercise improves cigarette smoke (CS) induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in mice through inhibition of inflammation mediated by Wnt/β-catenin-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ signaling.

METHODS

Firstly, we observed the effect of exercise on pulmonary inflammation, lung function, and Wnt/β-catenin-PPARγ. A total of 30 male C57BL/6J mice were divided into the control group (CG), smoke group (SG), low-intensity exercise group (LEG), moderate-intensity exercise group (MEG), and high-intensity exercise group (HEG). All the groups, except for CG, underwent whole-body progressive exposure to CS for 25 weeks. Then, we assessed the maximal exercise capacity of mice from the LEG, MEG, and HEG, and performed an 8-week treadmill exercise intervention. Then, we used LiCl (Wnt/β-catenin agonist) and XAV939 (Wnt/β-catenin antagonist) to investigate whether Wnt/β-catenin-PPARγ pathway played a role in the improvement of COPD via exercise. Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6 per group): CG, SG, LiCl group, LiCl and exercise group, XAV939 group, and XAV939 and exercise group. Mice except those in the CG were exposed to CS, and those in the exercise groups were subjected to moderate-intensity exercise training. All the mice were subjected to lung function test, lung histological assessment, and analysis of inflammatory markers in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, as well as detection of Wnt1, β-catenin and PPARγ proteins in the lung tissue.

RESULTS

Exercise of various intensities alleviated lung structural changes, pulmonary function and inflammation in COPD, with moderate-intensity exercise exhibiting significant and comprehensive effects on the alleviation of pulmonary inflammation and improvement of lung function. Low-, moderate-, and high-intensity exercise decreased β-catenin levels and increased those of PPARγ significantly, and only moderate-intensity exercise reduced the level of Wnt1 protein. Moderate-intensity exercise relieved the inflammation aggravated by Wnt agonist. Wnt antagonist combined with moderate-intensity exercise increased the levels of PPARγ, which may explain the highest improvement of pulmonary function observed in this group.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise effectively decreases COPD pulmonary inflammation and improves pulmonary function. The beneficial role of exercise may be exerted through Wnt/β-catenin-PPARγ pathway.

A small molecule compound 759 inhibits the wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway via increasing the Axin protein stability

Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays important role in cancers. Compound 759 is one of the compounds previously screened to identify inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in A549 cells [Lee et al. in Bioorg Med Chem Lett 20:5900-5904, 2010]. However, the mechanism by which Compound 759 induces the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway remains unknown. In our study, we employed various assays to comprehensively evaluate the effects of Compound 759 on lung cancer cells. Our results demonstrated that Compound 759 significantly suppressed cell proliferation and Wnt3a-induced Topflash activity and arrested the cell cycle at the G1 stage. Changes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related protein expression, gene activity, and protein stability including Axin, and p21, were achieved through western blot and qRT-PCR analysis. Compound 759 treatment upregulated the mRNA level of p21 and increased Axin protein levels without altering the mRNA expression in A549 cells. Co-treatment of Wnt3a and varying doses of Compound 759 dose-dependently increased the amounts of Axin1 in the cytosol and inhibited β-catenin translocation into the nucleus. Moreover, Compound 759 reduced tumor size and weight in the A549 cell-induced tumor growth in the in vivo tumor xenograft mouse model. Our findings indicate that Compound 759 exhibits potential anti-cancer activity by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through the increase of Axin1 protein stability.

Modulators for palmitoylation of proteins and small molecules

As an essential form of lipid modification for maintaining vital cellular functions, palmitoylation plays an important role in in the regulation of various physiological processes, serving as a promising therapeutic target for diseases like cancer and neurological disorders. Ongoing research has revealed that palmitoylation can be categorized into three distinct types: N-palmitoylation, O-palmitoylation and S-palmitoylation. Herein this paper provides an overview of the regulatory enzymes involved in palmitoylation, including palmitoyltransferases and depalmitoylases, and discusses the currently available broad-spectrum and selective inhibitors for these enzymes.

F. Nucleatum enhances oral squamous cell carcinoma proliferation via E-cadherin/β-Catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) is a microbial risk factor whose presence increases the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. However, whether it can promote the proliferation of OSCC cells remains unknown.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated F. nucleatum effect on OSCC cell proliferation using in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

Our results showed that F. nucleatum promoted OSCC cell proliferation, doubling the cell count after 72 h (CCK-8 assay). Cell cycle analysis revealed G2/M phase arrest. F. nucleatum interaction with CDH1 triggered phosphorylation, upregulating downstream protein β-catenin and activating cyclinD1 and Myc. Notably, F. nucleatum did not affect noncancerous cells, unrelated to CDH1 expression levels in CAL27 cells. Overexpression of phosphorylated CDH1 in 293T cells did not upregulate β-catenin and cycle-related genes. In vivo BALB/c nude experiments showed increased tumor volume and Ki-67 proliferation index after F. nucleatum intervention.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that F. nucleatum promotes OSCC cell proliferation through the CDH1/β-catenin pathway, advancing our understanding of its role in OSCC progression and highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.