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Ko MY, Park H, Kim Y, Min E, Cha SW, Lee BS, Hyun SA, Ka M. Bisphenol S (BPS) induces glioblastoma progression via regulation of EZH2-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in U87-MG cells. Toxicology 2024; 507:153898. [PMID: 39032682 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS), an alternative to bisphenol A (BPA), exerts proliferative effects similar to those of BPA. BPS is a representative endocrine disruptor associated with cancer progression. However, the mechanisms underlying BPS-induced glioblastoma progression are not fully understood. To investigate the effects of BPS on glioblastoma, U-87 MG cancer cell lines were exposed to BPS. The study focused on analyzing the proliferation and migration of U-87 MG cells. Furthermore, the involvement of the enhancer of the zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)-mediated phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was examined. Pharmacological approaches were employed to inhibit EZH2 activity and observe its effects on BPS-induced changes. The results indicated that BPS promoted the proliferation and migration of U-87 MG cells at a concentration of 0.1 µM. These changes appeared to be linked to the activation of the EZH2-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Moreover, inhibiting EZH2 activity using pharmacological approaches restored the BPS-mediated induction of proliferation and migration. In conclusion, the results of this study indicated that BPS induces glioblastoma progression through EZH2 upregulation. Therefore, targeting the EZH2-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway could be considered a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Yi Ko
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejin Park
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Younhee Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Euijun Min
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Sin-Woo Cha
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoung-Seok Lee
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sung-Ae Hyun
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea.
| | - Minhan Ka
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, KRICT, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea; Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Larriba E, de Juan Romero C, García-Martínez A, Quintanar T, Rodríguez-Lescure Á, Soto JL, Saceda M, Martín-Nieto J, Barberá VM. Identification of new targets for glioblastoma therapy based on a DNA expression microarray. Comput Biol Med 2024; 179:108833. [PMID: 38981212 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive perspective on the deregulated pathways and impaired biological functions prevalent in human glioblastoma (GBM). In order to characterize differences in gene expression between individuals diagnosed with GBM and healthy brain tissue, we have designed and manufactured a specific, custom DNA microarray. The results obtained from differential gene expression analysis were validated by RT-qPCR. The datasets obtained from the analysis of common differential expressed genes in our cohort of patients were used to generate protein-protein interaction networks of functionally enriched genes and their biological functions. This network analysis, let us to identify 16 genes that exhibited either up-regulation (CDK4, MYC, FOXM1, FN1, E2F7, HDAC1, TNC, LAMC1, EIF4EBP1 and ITGB3) or down-regulation (PRKACB, MEF2C, CAMK2B, MAPK3, MAP2K1 and PENK) in all GBM patients. Further investigation of these genes and enriched pathways uncovered in this investigation promises to serve as a foundational step in advancing our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underpinning GBM pathogenesis. Consequently, the present work emphasizes the critical role that the unveiled molecular pathways likely play in shaping innovative therapeutic approaches for GBM management. We finally proposed in this study a list of compounds that target hub of GBM-related genes, some of which are already in clinical use, underscoring the potential of those genes as targets for GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Larriba
- Human and Mammalian Genetics Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Camino de Juan Romero
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda, Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Spain.
| | - Araceli García-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Unidad de Genética Molecular, Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain
| | - Teresa Quintanar
- Servicio de Oncología Médica. Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain
| | - Álvaro Rodríguez-Lescure
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Servicio de Oncología Médica. Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; School of Medicine. Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche. Investigator, Spanish Breast Cancer Research Group (GEICAM), Spain
| | - José Luis Soto
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Unidad de Genética Molecular, Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain
| | - Miguel Saceda
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda, Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Spain
| | - José Martín-Nieto
- Human and Mammalian Genetics Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain.
| | - Víctor M Barberá
- Human and Mammalian Genetics Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain; Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain; Unidad de Genética Molecular, Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, 03203, Alicante, Spain.
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3
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Freitag T, Kaps P, Ramtke J, Bertels S, Zunke E, Schneider B, Becker AS, Koczan D, Dubinski D, Freiman TM, Wittig F, Hinz B, Westhoff MA, Strobel H, Meiners F, Wolter D, Engel N, Troschke-Meurer S, Bergmann-Ewert W, Staehlke S, Wolff A, Gessler F, Junghanss C, Maletzki C. Combined inhibition of EZH2 and CDK4/6 perturbs endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial homeostasis and increases antitumor activity against glioblastoma. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:156. [PMID: 39054369 PMCID: PMC11272933 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00653-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
He, we show that combined use of the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 and the CDK4/6 inhibitor abemaciclib synergistically enhances antitumoral effects in preclinical GBM models. Dual blockade led to HIF1α upregulation and CalR translocation, accompanied by massive impairment of mitochondrial function. Basal oxygen consumption rate, ATP synthesis, and maximal mitochondrial respiration decreased, confirming disrupted endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial homeostasis. This was paralleled by mitochondrial depolarization and upregulation of the UPR sensors PERK, ATF6α, and IRE1α. Notably, dual EZH2/CDK4/6 blockade also reduced 3D-spheroid invasion, partially inhibited tumor growth in ovo, and led to impaired viability of patient-derived organoids. Mechanistically, this was due to transcriptional changes in genes involved in mitotic aberrations/spindle assembly (Rb, PLK1, RRM2, PRC1, CENPF, TPX2), histone modification (HIST1H1B, HIST1H3G), DNA damage/replication stress events (TOP2A, ATF4), immuno-oncology (DEPDC1), EMT-counterregulation (PCDH1) and a shift in the stemness profile towards a more differentiated state. We propose a dual EZH2/CDK4/6 blockade for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Freitag
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Philipp Kaps
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Justus Ramtke
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Sarah Bertels
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Emily Zunke
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Björn Schneider
- Institute of Pathology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Anne-Sophie Becker
- Institute of Pathology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Dirk Koczan
- Department of Immunology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Daniel Dubinski
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Thomas M Freiman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Felix Wittig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Mike-Andrew Westhoff
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hannah Strobel
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Franziska Meiners
- Institute for Biostatistics and Informatics in Medicine and Aging Research (IBIMA), Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Daniel Wolter
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Nadja Engel
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- Oscar Langendorff Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Sascha Troschke-Meurer
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wendy Bergmann-Ewert
- Core Facility for Cell Sorting & Cell Analysis, Laboratory for Clinical Immunology, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Susanne Staehlke
- Institute for Cell Biology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Annabell Wolff
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Florian Gessler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Christian Junghanss
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Claudia Maletzki
- Department of Medicine, Clinic III -Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Rostock University Medical Center, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
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Wang J, Shen S, You J, Wang Z, Li Y, Chen Y, Tuo Y, Chen D, Yu H, Zhang J, Wang F, Pang X, Xiao Z, Lan Q, Wang Y. PRMT6 facilitates EZH2 protein stability by inhibiting TRAF6-mediated ubiquitination degradation to promote glioblastoma cell invasion and migration. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:524. [PMID: 39043634 PMCID: PMC11266590 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06920-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Invasion and migration are the key hallmarks of cancer, and aggressive growth is a major factor contributing to treatment failure and poor prognosis in glioblastoma. Protein arginine methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6), as an epigenetic regulator, has been confirmed to promote the malignant proliferation of glioblastoma cells in previous studies. However, the effects of PRMT6 on glioblastoma cell invasion and migration and its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report that PRMT6 functions as a driver element for tumor cell invasion and migration in glioblastoma. Bioinformatics analysis and glioma sample detection results demonstrated that PRMT6 is highly expressed in mesenchymal subtype or invasive gliomas, and is significantly negatively correlated with their prognosis. Inhibition of PRMT6 (using PRMT6 shRNA or inhibitor EPZ020411) reduces glioblastoma cell invasion and migration in vitro, whereas overexpression of PRMT6 produces opposite effects. Then, we identified that PRMT6 maintains the protein stability of EZH2 by inhibiting the degradation of EZH2 protein, thereby mediating the invasion and migration of glioblastoma cells. Further mechanistic investigations found that PRMT6 inhibits the transcription of TRAF6 by activating the histone methylation mark (H3R2me2a), and reducing the interaction between TRAF6 and EZH2 to enhance the protein stability of EZH2 in glioblastoma cells. Xenograft tumor assay and HE staining results showed that the expression of PRMT6 could promote the invasion of glioblastoma cells in vivo, the immunohistochemical staining results of mouse brain tissue tumor sections also confirmed the regulatory relationship between PRMT6, TRAF6, and EZH2. Our findings illustrate that PRMT6 suppresses TRAF6 transcription via H3R2me2a to enhance the protein stability of EZH2 to facilitate glioblastoma cell invasion and migration. Blocking the PRMT6-TRAF6-EZH2 axis is a promising strategy for inhibiting glioblastoma cell invasion and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shiquan Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian You
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhaotao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Yanming Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004, Suzhou, China
| | - Yonghua Tuo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Danmin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoming Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingbo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangran Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zongyu Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215124, Suzhou, China.
| | - Qing Lan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004, Suzhou, China.
| | - Yezhong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, China.
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5
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Wang H, Ma Z, Xu M, Xiong M, Chen X, Zhou Y, Tang W, Li X, Chen W, Ma H, Ye X. Coptisine-mediated downregulation of E2F7 induces G2/M phase arrest in hepatocellular carcinoma cells through inhibition of E2F4/NFYA/NFYB transcription factors. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 397:111063. [PMID: 38795876 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Coptisine (COP) has been shown to exhibit a wide range of anticancer properties, including in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, the precise mechanism of COP in the treatment of HCC remains elusive. This study aims to investigate the potential mechanism of action of COP against HCC. By evaluating the anti-HCC activity of COP in different HCC cells lines and in xenografted nude mice, it was found that COP inhibited HCC in vitro and in vivo. Through RNA-Seq analysis, E2F7 was identified as a potential target of COP against HCC, as well as the cell cycle as a possible pathway. The overexpression of E2F7 and the inhibition of CHK1 demonstrated that COP inhibits the activity of HCC and induces G2/M phase arrest of HCC cells by down-regulating E2F7 and influencing the CHK1/CDC25A pathway. Finally, the promoter fragmentation experiments and chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that COP down-regulated E2F7 by inhibiting the E2F4/NFYA/NFYB transcription factors. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that COP downregulates E2F7 by affecting key transcription factors, thereby inducing cell cycle arrest and inhibits HCC cell growth. This provides further evidence of the efficacy of COP in the treatment of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Zhengcai Ma
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Minmin Xu
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Mengyuan Xiong
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Xiantao Chen
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Wanyu Tang
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Xuegang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Wanqun Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400000, China.
| | - Hang Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Xiaoli Ye
- Engineering Research Center of Coptis Development & Utilization (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Cui H, Li H, Liu J, Zhao P, Liu Y, Zhong R, Li R, Cheng Y. The predictive value of E2F7 in immunotherapy efficacy for lung adenocarcinoma: An observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38574. [PMID: 38905387 PMCID: PMC11191985 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common pathological type of lung cancer. In recent years, immunotherapy has greatly changed the treatment pattern of advanced LUAD. However, only a small proportion of LUAD patients benefitted from immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. There is an urgent need to develop a biomarker to predict immune therapy response. E2F7 has been shown to be closely related to immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint expression in tumors. However, it is unclear whether the E2F7 expression is related to the immunotherapy efficacy in LUAD. Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate the clinical characteristics, function, and immunotherapy responsiveness of E2F7 expression, and to explore the potential of E2F7 as an immunotherapy response biomarker in LUAD. We analyzed the clinical characteristics and biological function of E2F7 expression based on data from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus database. In addition, we used single-cell sequencing data to analyze the immune regulatory effects of E2F7 in LUAD. Furthermore, we analyzed the immunotherapy response prediction ability of E2F7 expression based on the immunotherapy database. Compared to normal lung tissue, E2F7 was specifically overexpressed in LUAD, and its expression was associated with higher malignancy and poor efficacy. E2F7 high expression was an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of LUAD. E2F7 was enriched in cell division and cell cycle functions. In addition, the expressions of immune checkpoints were correlated with the E2F7 expression. E2F7 was highly expressed in myeloid cells, and E2F7 highly expressed myeloid cells were associated with immune and inflammatory responses. Moreover, the expression level of E2F7 can effectively distinguish different immune therapy responses in LUAD patients. E2F7 was upregulated in LUAD, and high expression of E2F7 was associated with higher malignancy and poor efficacy. E2F7 high expression was an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of LUAD. Moreover, E2F7 may exert its immunosuppressive effect by affecting the function of myeloid cells. These results indicated the potential role of E2F7 as a biomarker for predicting LUAD immunotherapy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heran Cui
- Biobank, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Hui Li
- Biobank, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
- Translational Oncology Research Lab, Jilin Province and Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics for Lung Cancer, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Biobank, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Peiyan Zhao
- Translational Oncology Research Lab, Jilin Province and Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics for Lung Cancer, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Translational Oncology Research Lab, Jilin Province and Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics for Lung Cancer, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Zhong
- Translational Oncology Research Lab, Jilin Province and Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics for Lung Cancer, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Rixin Li
- Biobank, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Translational Oncology Research Lab, Jilin Province and Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics for Lung Cancer, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
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7
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Zhang H, Wang Z, Qiao X, Peng N, Wu J, Chen Y, Cheng C. Unveiling the therapeutic potential of IHMT-337 in glioma treatment: targeting the EZH2-SLC12A5 axis. Mol Med 2024; 30:91. [PMID: 38886655 PMCID: PMC11184773 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00857-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common malignant tumor of the central nervous system, with EZH2 playing a crucial regulatory role. This study further explores the abnormal expression of EZH2 and its mechanisms in regulating glioma progression. Additionally, it was found that IHMT-337 can potentially be a therapeutic agent for glioma. The prognosis, expression, and localization of EZH2 were determined using bioinformatics, IHC staining, Western blot (WB) analysis, and immunofluorescence (IF) localization. The effects of EZH2 on cell function were assessed using CCK-8 assays, Transwell assays, and wound healing assays. Public databases and RT-qPCR were utilized to identify downstream targets. The mechanisms regulating these downstream targets were elucidated using MS-PCR and WB analysis. The efficacy of IHMT-337 was demonstrated through IC50 measurements, WB analysis, and RT-qPCR. The effects of IHMT-337 on glioma cells in vitro were evaluated using Transwell assays, EdU incorporation assays, and flow cytometry. The potential of IHMT-337 as a treatment for glioma was assessed using a blood-brain barrier (BBB) model and an orthotopic glioma model. Our research confirms significantly elevated EZH2 expression in gliomas, correlating with patient prognosis. EZH2 facilitates glioma proliferation, migration, and invasion alongside promoting SLC12A5 DNA methylation. By regulating SLC12A5 expression, EZH2 activates the WNK1-OSR1-NKCC1 pathway, enhancing its interaction with ERM to promote glioma migration. IHMT-337 targets EZH2 in vitro to inhibit WNK1 activation, thereby suppressing glioma cell migration. Additionally, it inhibits cell proliferation and arrests the cell cycle. IHMT-337 has the potential to cross the BBB and has successfully inhibited glioma progression in vivo. This study expands our understanding of the EZH2-SLC12A5 axis in gliomas, laying a new foundation for the clinical translation of IHMT-337 and offering new insights for precision glioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Zhang
- Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaolong Qiao
- Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Nan Peng
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Jiaxing Wu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
- Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, Anhui, China
| | - Yinan Chen
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Chuandong Cheng
- Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China.
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Centre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHM, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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Seasock MJ, Shafiquzzaman M, Ruiz-Echartea ME, Kanchi RS, Tran BT, Simon LM, Meyer MD, Erice PA, Lotlikar SL, Wenlock SC, Ochsner SA, Enright A, Carisey AF, Romero F, Rosas IO, King KY, McKenna NJ, Coarfa C, Rodriguez A. Let-7 restrains an oncogenic epigenetic circuit in AT2 cells to prevent ectopic formation of fibrogenic transitional cell intermediates and pulmonary fibrosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.22.595205. [PMID: 38826218 PMCID: PMC11142151 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.22.595205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Analysis of lung alveolar type 2 (AT2) progenitor stem cells has highlighted fundamental mechanisms that direct their differentiation into alveolar type 1 cells (AT1s) in lung repair and disease. However, microRNA (miRNA) mediated post-transcriptional mechanisms which govern this nexus remain understudied. We show here that the let-7 miRNA family serves a homeostatic role in governance of AT2 quiescence, specifically by preventing the uncontrolled accumulation of AT2 transitional cells and by promoting AT1 differentiation to safeguard the lung from spontaneous alveolar destruction and fibrosis. Using mice and organoid models with genetic ablation of let-7a1/let-7f1/let-7d cluster (let-7afd) in AT2 cells, we demonstrate prevents AT1 differentiation and results in aberrant accumulation of AT2 transitional cells in progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Integration of enhanced AGO2 UV-crosslinking and immunoprecipitation sequencing (AGO2-eCLIP) with RNA-sequencing from AT2 cells uncovered the induction of direct targets of let-7 in an oncogene feed-forward regulatory network including BACH1/EZH2 which drives an aberrant fibrotic cascade. Additional analyses by CUT&RUN-sequencing revealed loss of let-7afd hampers AT1 differentiation by eliciting aberrant histone EZH2 methylation which prevents the exit of AT2 transitional cells into terminal AT1s. This study identifies let-7 as a key gatekeeper of post-transcriptional and epigenetic chromatin signals to prevent AT2-driven pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Seasock
- Immunology & Microbiology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Department of Medicine, Immunology & Allergy Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX, 77030
| | - Md Shafiquzzaman
- Department of Medicine, Immunology & Allergy Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX, 77030
| | - Maria E. Ruiz-Echartea
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Rupa S. Kanchi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Brandon T. Tran
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Lukas M. Simon
- Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | | | - Phillip A. Erice
- Immunology & Microbiology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Department of Medicine, Immunology & Allergy Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX, 77030
| | - Shivani L. Lotlikar
- Department of Medicine, Immunology & Allergy Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX, 77030
| | | | - Scott A. Ochsner
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Anton Enright
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Alex F. Carisey
- William T. Shearer Center for Immunobiology, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030
- Current Address: Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Freddy Romero
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX, 77030
- Current Address: Vertex Pharmaceuticals, 3215 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA, 92121
| | - Ivan O. Rosas
- Department of Medicine, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Katherine Y. King
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Neil J. McKenna
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Antony Rodriguez
- Department of Medicine, Immunology & Allergy Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX, 77030
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, 77030
- Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Michael E. Debakey, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030
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9
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Mao X, Xu S, Wang H, Xiao P, Li S, Wu J, Sun J, Jin C, Shen M, Shi Y, Tang B, Yang Y, Chen W, Xu Z, Xu Y. Integrated analysis reveals critical cisplatin-resistance regulators E2F7 contributed to tumor progression and metastasis in lung adenocarcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:173. [PMID: 38760774 PMCID: PMC11102206 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug resistance poses a significant challenge in cancer treatment, particularly as a leading cause of therapy failure. Cisplatin, the primary drug for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) chemotherapy, shows effective treatment outcomes. However, the development of resistance against cisplatin is a major obstacle. Therefore, identifying genes resistant to cisplatin and adopting personalized treatment could significantly improve patient outcomes. METHODS By examining transcriptome data of cisplatin-resistant LUAD cells from the GEO database, 181 genes associated with cisplatin resistance were identified. Using univariate regression analysis, random forest and multivariate regression analyses, two prognostic genes, E2F7 and FAM83A, were identified. This study developed a prognostic model utilizing E2F7 and FAM83A as key indicators. The Cell Counting Kit 8 assay, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry were used to detect the effects of E2F7 on the proliferation, migration, invasiveness and apoptosis of A549/PC9 cells. Western blotting was used to determine the effect of E2F7 on AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. RESULTS This study has pinpointed two crucial genes associated with cisplatin resistance, E2F7 and FAM83A, and developed a comprehensive model to assist in the diagnosis, prognosis, and evaluation of relapse risk in LUAD. Analysis revealed that patients at higher risk, according to these genetic markers, had elevated levels of immune checkpoints (PD-L1 and PD-L2). The prognostic and diagnosis values of E2F7 and FAM83A were further confirmed in clinical data. Furthermore, inhibiting E2F7 in lung cancer cells markedly reduced their proliferation, migration, invasion, and increased apoptosis. In vivo experiments corroborated these findings, showing reduced tumor growth and lung metastasis upon E2F7 suppression in lung cancer models. CONCLUSION Our study affirms the prognostic value of a model based on two DEGs, offering a reliable method for predicting the success of tumor immunotherapy in patients with LUAD. The diagnostic and predictive model based on these genes demonstrates excellent performance. In vitro, reducing E2F7 levels shows antitumor effects by blocking LUAD growth and progression. Further investigation into the molecular mechanisms has highlighted E2F7's effect on the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, underscoring its therapeutic potential. In the era of personalized medicine, this DEG-based model promises to guide clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Mao
- Department of Nursing, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Shumin Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Peng Xiao
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shumin Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325015, China
| | - Jiaji Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Junhui Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325015, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, China
| | - Mo Shen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Yueli Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Bufu Tang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Weiyu Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China.
| | - Zhiyong Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China.
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Center for Oncology Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, 322000, China.
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10
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Lin H, Liu C, Hu A, Zhang D, Yang H, Mao Y. Understanding the immunosuppressive microenvironment of glioma: mechanistic insights and clinical perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:31. [PMID: 38720342 PMCID: PMC11077829 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the predominant and primary malignant intracranial tumor, poses a formidable challenge due to its immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby confounding conventional therapeutic interventions. Despite the established treatment regimen comprising surgical intervention, radiotherapy, temozolomide administration, and the exploration of emerging modalities such as immunotherapy and integration of medicine and engineering technology therapy, the efficacy of these approaches remains constrained, resulting in suboptimal prognostic outcomes. In recent years, intensive scrutiny of the inhibitory and immunosuppressive milieu within GBM has underscored the significance of cellular constituents of the GBM microenvironment and their interactions with malignant cells and neurons. Novel immune and targeted therapy strategies have emerged, offering promising avenues for advancing GBM treatment. One pivotal mechanism orchestrating immunosuppression in GBM involves the aggregation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), glioma-associated macrophage/microglia (GAM), and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Among these, MDSCs, though constituting a minority (4-8%) of CD45+ cells in GBM, play a central component in fostering immune evasion and propelling tumor progression, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. MDSCs deploy intricate immunosuppressive mechanisms that adapt to the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). Understanding the interplay between GBM and MDSCs provides a compelling basis for therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to elucidate the immune regulatory mechanisms inherent in the GBM microenvironment, explore existing therapeutic targets, and consolidate recent insights into MDSC induction and their contribution to GBM immunosuppression. Additionally, the review comprehensively surveys ongoing clinical trials and potential treatment strategies, envisioning a future where targeting MDSCs could reshape the immune landscape of GBM. Through the synergistic integration of immunotherapy with other therapeutic modalities, this approach can establish a multidisciplinary, multi-target paradigm, ultimately improving the prognosis and quality of life in patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaxian Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Duanwu Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Jiang B, Yan B, Yang H, Geng H, Li P. Transcription Factor E2F7 Hampers the Killing Effect of NK Cells against Colorectal Cancer Cells via Activating RAD18 Transcription. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 34:920-929. [PMID: 38073330 PMCID: PMC11091666 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2308.08026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
As a pivotal defensive line against multitudinous malignant tumors, natural killer (NK) cells exist in the tumor microenvironment (TME). RAD18 E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase (RAD18) has been reported to foster the malignant progression of multiple cancers, but its effect on NK function has not been mined. Here, the study was designed to mine the mechanism by which RAD18 regulates the killing effect of NK cells on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Expression of E2F Transcription Factor 7 (E2F7) and RAD18 in CRC tissues, their correlation, binding sites, and RAD18 enrichment pathway were analyzed by bioinformatics. Expression of E2F7 and RAD18 in cells was assayed by qRT-PCR and western blot. Dual-luciferase assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay verified the regulatory relationship between E2F7 and RAD18. CCK-8 assay was utilized to assay cell viability, colony formation assay to detect cell proliferation, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) test to assay NK cell cytotoxicity, ELISA to assay levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and immunofluorescence to detect expression of toxic molecules perforin and granzyme B. High expression of RAD18 and E2F7 was found in CRC tissues and cells. Silencing RAD18 could hamper the proliferation of CRC cells, foster viability and cytotoxicity of NK cells, and increase the secretion of GM-CSF, TNF-α, IFN-γ as well as the expression of perforin and granzyme B. Additionally, ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assay ascertained the binding relationship between RAD18 promoter region and E2F7. E2F7 could activate the transcription of RAD18, and silencing RAD18 reversed the inhibitory effect of E2F7 overexpression on NK cell killing. This work clarified the inhibitory effect of the E2F7/RAD18 axis on NK cell killing in CRC, and proffered a new direction for immunotherapy of CRC in targeted immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingdong Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Union Jiangbei Hospital Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430100, P.R. China
| | - Binghua Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huai'an Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an City, 223001, P.R. China
| | - Hengjin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huai'an Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an City, 223001, P.R. China
| | - He Geng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huai'an Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an City, 223001, P.R. China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huai'an Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an City, 223001, P.R. China
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12
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Kong M, Hong DH, Paudel S, Yoon NE, Jung BH, Kim M, Kim TH, Jeong J, Choi D, Lee H. Metabolomics and miRNA profiling reveals feature of gallbladder cancer-derived biliary extracellular vesicles. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 705:149724. [PMID: 38432111 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although there are several studies in the development of various human cancers, the role of exosomes is poorly understood in the progression of gallbladder cancer. This study aims to characterize the metabolic changes occurring in exosomes obtained from patients with gallbladder cancer compared with those from other gallbladder disease groups. METHODS Biliary exosomes were isolated from healthy donors (n = 3) and from patients with gallbladder cancer (n = 3), gallbladder polyps (n = 4), or cholecystitis (n = 3) using a validated exosome isolation kit. Afterward, we performed miRNA profiling and untargeted metabolomic analysis of the exosomes. The results were validated by integrating the results of the miRNA and metabolomic analyses. RESULTS The gallbladder cancer group exhibited a significant reduction in the levels of multiple unsaturated phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylcholines compared to the normal group, which resulted in the loss of exosome membrane integrity. Additionally, the gallbladder cancer group demonstrated significant overexpression of miR-181c and palmitic acid, and decreased levels of conjugated deoxycholic acid, all of which are strongly associated with the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that the contents of exosomes are disease-specific, particularly in gallbladder cancer, and that altered metabolites convey critical information regarding their phenotype. We believe that our metabolomic and miRNA profiling results may provide important insights into the development of gallbladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Kong
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Hee Hong
- Research Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea; Department of Surgery, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanjita Paudel
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Eun Yoon
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Hwa Jung
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Myounghoi Kim
- Research Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hun Kim
- Research Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaemin Jeong
- Department of Biohealth Convergence, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul Women's University, Seoul, 01797, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dongho Choi
- Research Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea; Department of Surgery, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea; Department of HY-KIST Bio-convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunbeom Lee
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of HY-KIST Bio-convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Yang Y, More S, De Smet F, De Vleeschouwer S, Agostinis P. Antioxidant network-based signatures cluster glioblastoma into distinct redox-resistant phenotypes. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1342977. [PMID: 38698847 PMCID: PMC11063242 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1342977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Aberrant reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is one of the hallmarks of cancer. During their growth and dissemination, cancer cells control redox signaling to support protumorigenic pathways. As a consequence, cancer cells become reliant on major antioxidant systems to maintain a balanced redox tone, while avoiding excessive oxidative stress and cell death. This concept appears especially relevant in the context of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most aggressive form of brain tumor characterized by significant heterogeneity, which contributes to treatment resistance and tumor recurrence. From this viewpoint, this study aims to investigate whether gene regulatory networks can effectively capture the diverse redox states associated with the primary phenotypes of GBM. Methods In this study, we utilized publicly available GBM datasets along with proprietary bulk sequencing data. Employing computational analysis and bioinformatics tools, we stratified GBM based on their antioxidant capacities and evaluated the distinctive functionalities and prognostic values of distinct transcriptional networks in silico. Results We established three distinct transcriptional co-expression networks and signatures (termed clusters C1, C2, and C3) with distinct antioxidant potential in GBM cancer cells. Functional analysis of each cluster revealed that C1 exhibits strong antioxidant properties, C2 is marked with a discrepant inflammatory trait and C3 was identified as the cluster with the weakest antioxidant capacity. Intriguingly, C2 exhibited a strong correlation with the highly aggressive mesenchymal subtype of GBM. Furthermore, this cluster holds substantial prognostic importance: patients with higher gene set variation analysis (GSVA) scores of the C2 signature exhibited adverse outcomes in overall and progression-free survival. Conclusion In summary, we provide a set of transcriptional signatures that unveil the antioxidant potential of GBM, offering a promising prognostic application and a guide for therapeutic strategies in GBM therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Yang
- Research Group Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cell Death Research & Therapy, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Cancer Biology Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sanket More
- Laboratory of Cell Death Research & Therapy, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Cancer Biology Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederik De Smet
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Institute for Single-Cell Omics (LISCO), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven De Vleeschouwer
- Research Group Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrizia Agostinis
- Laboratory of Cell Death Research & Therapy, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Cancer Biology Research, Leuven, Belgium
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Jacksi M, Schad E, Tantos A. Morphological Changes Induced by TKS4 Deficiency Can Be Reversed by EZH2 Inhibition in Colorectal Carcinoma Cells. Biomolecules 2024; 14:445. [PMID: 38672463 PMCID: PMC11047920 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The scaffold protein tyrosine kinase substrate 4 (TKS4) undergoes tyrosine phosphorylation by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway via Src kinase. The TKS4 deficiency in humans is responsible for the manifestation of a genetic disorder known as Frank-Ter Haar syndrome (FTHS). Based on our earlier investigation, the absence of TKS4 triggers migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like phenomena while concurrently suppressing cell proliferation in HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cells. This indicates that TKS4 may play a unique role in the progression of cancer. In this study, we demonstrated that the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and the histone methyltransferase of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) are involved in the migration, invasion, and EMT-like changes in TKS4-deficient cells (KO). EZH2 is responsible for the maintenance of the trimethylated lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). METHODS We performed transcriptome sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation, protein and RNA quantitative studies, cell mobility, invasion, and proliferation studies combined with/without the EZH2 activity inhibitor 3-deazanoplanocine (DZNep). RESULTS We detected an elevation of global H3K27me3 levels in the TKS4 KO cells, which could be reduced with treatment with DZNep, an EZH2 inhibitor. Inhibition of EZH2 activity reversed the phenotypic effects of the knockout of TKS4, reducing the migration speed and wound healing capacity of the cells as well as decreasing the invasion capacity, while the decrease in cell proliferation became stronger. In addition, inhibition of EZH2 activity also reversed most epithelial and mesenchymal markers. We investigated the wider impact of TKS4 deletion on the gene expression profile of colorectal cancer cells using transcriptome sequencing of wild-type and TKS4 knockout cells, particularly before and after treatment with DZNep. Additionally, we observed changes in the expression of several protein-coding genes and long non-coding RNAs that showed a recovery in expression levels following EZH2 inhibition. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the removal of TKS4 causes a notable disruption in the gene expression pattern, leading to the disruption of several signal transduction pathways. Inhibiting the activity of EZH2 can restore most of these transcriptomics and phenotypic effects in colorectal carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mevan Jacksi
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1053 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Zakho, Duhok 42002, Iraq
| | - Eva Schad
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
| | - Agnes Tantos
- HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (M.J.); (E.S.)
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15
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He W, Wang N, Wang Y, Liu M, Qing Q, Su Q, Zou Y, Liu Y. Engineering Nanomedicine for Non-Viral RNA-Based Gene Therapy of Glioblastoma. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:482. [PMID: 38675144 PMCID: PMC11054437 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of malignant tumor of the central nervous system, characterized by aggressiveness, genetic instability, heterogenesis, and unpredictable clinical behavior. Disappointing results from the current clinical therapeutic methods have fueled a search for new therapeutic targets and treatment modalities. GBM is characterized by various genetic alterations, and RNA-based gene therapy has raised particular attention in GBM therapy. Here, we review the recent advances in engineered non-viral nanocarriers for RNA drug delivery to treat GBM. Therapeutic strategies concerning the brain-targeted delivery of various RNA drugs involving siRNA, microRNA, mRNA, ASO, and short-length RNA and the therapeutical mechanisms of these drugs to tackle the challenges of chemo-/radiotherapy resistance, recurrence, and incurable stem cell-like tumor cells of GBM are herein outlined. We also highlight the progress, prospects, and remaining challenges of non-viral nanocarriers-mediated RNA-based gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya He
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (W.H.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Ningyang Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (W.H.)
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Mengyao Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qian Qing
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qihang Su
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yan Zou
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Nanobiomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Brain Targeted Bio-Nanomedicine, School of Life Sciences & School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
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16
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Glaser K, Schepers EJ, Zwolshen HM, Lake CM, Timchenko NA, Karns RA, Cairo S, Geller JI, Tiao GM, Bondoc AJ. EZH2 is a key component of hepatoblastoma tumor cell growth. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30774. [PMID: 37990130 PMCID: PMC10842061 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) catalyzes the trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 via the polycomb recessive complex 2 (PRC2) and plays a time-specific role in normal fetal liver development. EZH2 is overexpressed in hepatoblastoma (HB), an embryonal tumor. EZH2 can also promote tumorigenesis via a noncanonical, PRC2-independent mechanism via proto-oncogenic, direct protein interaction, including β-catenin. We hypothesize that the pathological activation of EZH2 contributes to HB propagation in a PRC2-independent manner. METHODS AND RESULTS We demonstrate that EZH2 promotes proliferation in HB tumor-derived cell lines through interaction with β-catenin. Although aberrant EZH2 expression occurs, we determine that both canonical and noncanonical EZH2 signaling occurs based on specific gene-expression patterns and interaction with SUZ12, a PRC2 component, and β-catenin. Silencing and inhibition of EZH2 reduce primary HB cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS EZH2 overexpression promotes HB cell proliferation, with both canonical and noncanonical function detected. However, because EZH2 directly interacts with β-catenin in human tumors and EZH2 overexpression is not equal to SUZ12, it seems that a noncanonical mechanism is contributing to HB pathogenesis. Further mechanistic studies are necessary to elucidate potential pathogenic downstream mechanisms and translational potential of EZH2 inhibitors for the treatment of HB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Glaser
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Emily J Schepers
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Harrison M Zwolshen
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Charissa M Lake
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Nikolai A Timchenko
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Rebekah A Karns
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Stefano Cairo
- Champions Oncology, US Research Headquarters, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - James I Geller
- Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Gregory M Tiao
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Alexander J Bondoc
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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17
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Stitzlein LM, Adams JT, Stitzlein EN, Dudley RW, Chandra J. Current and future therapeutic strategies for high-grade gliomas leveraging the interplay between epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling networks. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:12. [PMID: 38183103 PMCID: PMC10768151 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02923-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapies, including small molecule inhibitors directed against aberrant kinase signaling and chromatin regulators, are emerging treatment options for high-grade gliomas (HGG). However, when translating these inhibitors into the clinic, their efficacy is generally limited to partial and transient responses. Recent studies in models of high-grade gliomas reveal a convergence of epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling networks that often cooperate to promote malignant properties and drug resistance. This review examines the interplay between five well-characterized groups of chromatin regulators, including the histone deacetylase (HDAC) family, bromodomain and extraterminal (BET)-containing proteins, protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) family, Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), and lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), and various signaling pathways essential for cancer cell growth and progression. These specific epigenetic regulators were chosen for review due to their targetability via pharmacological intervention and clinical relevance. Several studies have demonstrated improved efficacy from the dual inhibition of the epigenetic regulators and signaling kinases. Overall, the interactions between epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling pathways are likely influenced by several factors, including individual glioma subtypes, preexisting mutations, and overlapping/interdependent functions of the chromatin regulators. The insights gained by understanding how the genome and epigenome cooperate in high-grade gliomas will guide the design of future therapeutic strategies that utilize dual inhibition with improved efficacy and overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea M Stitzlein
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jack T Adams
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Richard W Dudley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
| | - Joya Chandra
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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18
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Dewdney B, Jenkins MR, Best SA, Freytag S, Prasad K, Holst J, Endersby R, Johns TG. From signalling pathways to targeted therapies: unravelling glioblastoma's secrets and harnessing two decades of progress. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:400. [PMID: 37857607 PMCID: PMC10587102 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01637-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma, a rare, and highly lethal form of brain cancer, poses significant challenges in terms of therapeutic resistance, and poor survival rates for both adult and paediatric patients alike. Despite advancements in brain cancer research driven by a technological revolution, translating our understanding of glioblastoma pathogenesis into improved clinical outcomes remains a critical unmet need. This review emphasises the intricate role of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling pathways, epigenetic mechanisms, and metabolic functions in glioblastoma tumourigenesis and therapeutic resistance. We also discuss the extensive efforts over the past two decades that have explored targeted therapies against these pathways. Emerging therapeutic approaches, such as antibody-toxin conjugates or CAR T cell therapies, offer potential by specifically targeting proteins on the glioblastoma cell surface. Combination strategies incorporating protein-targeted therapy and immune-based therapies demonstrate great promise for future clinical research. Moreover, gaining insights into the role of cell-of-origin in glioblastoma treatment response holds the potential to advance precision medicine approaches. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving outcomes for glioblastoma patients and moving towards more effective precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Dewdney
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Misty R Jenkins
- Immunology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
| | - Sarah A Best
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Saskia Freytag
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
- Personalised Oncology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Krishneel Prasad
- Immunology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, Australia
| | - Jeff Holst
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Terrance G Johns
- Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre For Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
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19
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Chen M, Fan L, Wu G, Wang H, Gu S. Histone methyltransferase enzyme enhancer of zeste homolog 2 counteracts ischemic brain injury via H3K27me3-mediated regulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023; 38:2240-2255. [PMID: 37334851 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic histone methylation plays a crucial role in cerebral ischemic injury, particularly in the context of ischemic stroke. However, the complete understanding of regulators involved in histone methylation, such as Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), along with their functional effects and underlying mechanisms, remains incomplete. METHODS Here, we employed a rat model of MCAO (Middle cerebral artery occlusion) and an OGD (Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation) model of primary cortical neurons to study the role of EZH2 and H3K27me3 in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. The infarct volume was measured through TTC staining, while cell apoptosis was detected using TUNEL staining. The mRNA expression levels were quantified through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), whereas protein expressions were evaluated via western blotting and immunofluorescence experiments. RESULTS The expression levels of EZH2 and H3K27me3 were upregulated in OGD; these expression levels were further enhanced by GSK-J4 but reduced by EPZ-6438 and AKT inhibitor (LY294002) under OGD conditions. Similar trends were observed for mTOR, AKT, and PI3K while contrasting results were noted for UTX and JMJD3. The phosphorylation levels of mTOR, AKT, and PI3K were activated by OGD, further stimulated by GSK-J4, but inhibited by EPZ-6438 and AKT inhibitor. Inhibition of EZH2 or AKT effectively counteracted OGD-/MCAO-induced cell apoptosis. Additionally, inhibition of EZH2 or AKT mitigated MCAO-induced infarct size and neurological deficit in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results demonstrate that EZH2 inhibition exerts a protective effect against ischemic brain injury by modulating the H3K27me3/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. The results provide novel insights into potential therapeutic mechanisms for stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Chen
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Fan
- The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoping Wu
- Department of Emergency, Sansha People's Hospital, Sansha, People's Republic of China
| | - Hairong Wang
- Department of Emergency, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Gu
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, People's Republic of China
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20
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Liu L, Xiao B, Hirukawa A, Smith HW, Zuo D, Sanguin-Gendreau V, McCaffrey L, Nam AJ, Muller WJ. Ezh2 promotes mammary tumor initiation through epigenetic regulation of the Wnt and mTORC1 signaling pathways. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2303010120. [PMID: 37549258 PMCID: PMC10438390 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2303010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of gene expression through histone posttranslational modifications plays a crucial role in breast cancer progression. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the contribution of histone modification to tumor initiation remain unclear. To gain a deeper understanding of the role of the histone modifier Enhancer of Zeste homology 2 (Ezh2) in the early stages of mammary tumor progression, we employed an inducible mammary organoid system bearing conditional Ezh2 alleles that faithfully recapitulates key events of luminal B breast cancer initiation. We showed that the loss of Ezh2 severely impairs oncogene-induced organoid growth, with Ezh2-deficient organoids maintaining a polarized epithelial phenotype. Transcriptomic profiling showed that Ezh2-deficient mammary epithelial cells up-regulated the expression of negative regulators of Wnt signaling and down-regulated genes involved in mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) signaling. We identified Sfrp1, a Wnt signaling suppressor, as an Ezh2 target gene that is derepressed and expressed in Ezh2-deficient epithelium. Furthermore, an analysis of breast cancer data revealed that Sfrp1 expression was associated with favorable clinical outcomes in luminal B breast cancer patients. Finally, we confirmed that targeting Ezh2 impairs mTORC1 activity through an indirect mechanism that up-regulates the expression of the tumor suppressor Pten. These findings indicate that Ezh2 integrates the mTORC1 and Wnt signaling pathways during early mammary tumor progression, arguing that inhibiting Ezh2 or therapeutically targeting Ezh2-dependent programs could be beneficial for the treatment of early-stage luminal B breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linshan Liu
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Bin Xiao
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Alison Hirukawa
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Harvey W. Smith
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Dongmei Zuo
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Virginie Sanguin-Gendreau
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Luke McCaffrey
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A0G4, Canada
| | - Alice Jisoo Nam
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - William J. Muller
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
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21
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Lin KH, Lee SC, Dacheux MA, Norman DD, Balogh A, Bavaria M, Lee H, Tigyi G. E2F7 drives autotaxin/Enpp2 transcription via chromosome looping: Repression by p53 in murine but not in human carcinomas. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23058. [PMID: 37358838 PMCID: PMC10364077 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300838r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the autotaxin (ATX, Enpp2)-lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling in cancerous cells contributes to tumorigenesis and therapy resistance. We previously found that ATX activity was elevated in p53-KO mice compared to wild-type (WT) mice. Here, we report that ATX expression was upregulated in mouse embryonic fibroblasts from p53-KO and p53R172H mutant mice. ATX promoter analysis combined with yeast one-hybrid testing revealed that WT p53 directly inhibits ATX expression via E2F7. Knockdown of E2F7 reduced ATX expression and chromosome immunoprecipitation showed that E2F7 promotes Enpp2 transcription through cooperative binding to two E2F7 sites (promoter region -1393 bp and second intron 996 bp). Using chromosome conformation capture, we found that chromosome looping brings together the two E2F7 binding sites. We discovered a p53 binding site in the first intron of murine Enpp2, but not in human ENPP2. Binding of p53 disrupted the E2F7-mediated chromosomal looping and repressed Enpp2 transcription in murine cells. In contrast, we found no disruption of E2F7-mediated ENPP2 transcription via direct p53 binding in human carcinoma cells. In summary, E2F7 is a common transcription factor that upregulates ATX in human and mouse cells but is subject to steric interference by direct intronic p53 binding only in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hung Lin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sue Chin Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mélanie A Dacheux
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Derek D Norman
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Andrea Balogh
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mitul Bavaria
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Hsinyu Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gabor Tigyi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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22
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Capobianco E, McGaughey V, Seraphin G, Heckel J, Rieger S, Lisse TS. Vitamin D inhibits osteosarcoma by reprogramming nonsense-mediated RNA decay and SNAI2-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1188641. [PMID: 37228489 PMCID: PMC10203545 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1188641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcomas are immune-resistant and metastatic as a result of elevated nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although vitamin D has anti-cancer effects, its effectiveness and mechanism of action against osteosarcomas are poorly understood. In this study, we assessed the impact of vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) on NMD-ROS-EMT signaling in in vitro and in vivo osteosarcoma animal models. Initiation of VDR signaling facilitated the enrichment of EMT pathway genes, after which 1,25(OH)2D, the active vitamin D derivative, inhibited the EMT pathway in osteosarcoma subtypes. The ligand-bound VDR directly downregulated the EMT inducer SNAI2, differentiating highly metastatic from low metastatic subtypes and 1,25(OH)2D sensitivity. Moreover, epigenome-wide motif and putative target gene analysis revealed the VDR's integration with NMD tumorigenic and immunogenic pathways. In an autoregulatory manner, 1,25(OH)2D inhibited NMD machinery genes and upregulated NMD target genes implicated in anti-oncogenic activity, immunorecognition, and cell-to-cell adhesion. Dicer substrate siRNA knockdown of SNAI2 revealed superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2)-mediated antioxidative responses and 1,25(OH)2D sensitization via non-canonical SOD2 nuclear-to-mitochondrial translocalization leading to overall ROS suppression. In a mouse xenograft metastasis model, the therapeutically relevant vitamin D derivative calcipotriol inhibited osteosarcoma metastasis and tumor growth shown for the first time. Our results uncover novel osteosarcoma-inhibiting mechanisms for vitamin D and calcipotriol that may be translated to human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vanessa McGaughey
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Gerbenn Seraphin
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - John Heckel
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Sandra Rieger
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Thomas S. Lisse
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- iCURA DX, Malvern, PA, United States
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23
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Liu Y, Yang Q. The roles of EZH2 in cancer and its inhibitors. Med Oncol 2023; 40:167. [PMID: 37148376 PMCID: PMC10162908 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02025-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is encoded by the Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit gene. EZH2 is involved in the cell cycle, DNA damage repair, cell differentiation, autophagy, apoptosis, and immunological modulation. The main function of EZH2 is to catalyze the methylation of H3 histone of H3K27Me3, which inhibits the transcription of target genes, such as tumor suppressor genes. EZH2 also forms complexes with transcriptions factors or directly binds to the promoters of target genes, leading to regulate gene transcriptions. EZH2 has been as a prominent target for cancer therapy and a growing number of potential targeting medicines have been developed. This review summarized the mechanisms that EZH2 regulates gene transcription and the interactions between EZH2 and important intracellular signaling molecules (Wnt, Notch, MEK, Akt) and as well the clinical applications of EZH2-targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuankai Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.
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24
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Guo N, Song Y, Zi F, Zheng J, Cheng J. Abnormal expression pattern of lncRNA H19 participates in multiple myeloma bone disease by unbalancing osteogenesis and osteolysis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110058. [PMID: 37058751 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating genetic and epigenetic alterations in multiple myeloma (MM) have been demonstrated to be closely associated with osteolytic bone disease, generally characterized as increased osteoclast formation and decreased osteoblast activity. Previously, serum long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 has been proved to be a biomarker for the diagnosis of MM. Whereas, its role in MM-associated bone homeostasis remains largely elusive. METHODS A cohort of 42 MM patients and 40 healthy volunteers were enrolled for evaluating differential expressions of H19 and its downstream effectors. The proliferative capacity of MM cells was monitored by CCK-8 assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity detection, either with Alizarin red staining (ARS) were employed to assess osteoblast formation. Osteoblast- or osteoclast-associated gene were detected using qRT-PCR and western blot analysis. Bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) were subjected to verify H19/miR-532-3p/E2F7/EZH2 axis, which was accounted for epigenetic suppression of PTEN. The functional role of H19 on MM development through unbalancing osteolysis and osteogenesis was also confirmed in the murine MM model. RESULTS Upregulation of serum H19 was observed in MM patients, suggesting its positive correlation with the poor prognosis of MM patients. Loss of H19 dramatically weakened cell proliferation of MM cells, promoted osteoblastic differentiation, and impaired osteoclast activity. While reinforced H19 exhibited the opposite effects. Akt/mTOR signaling plays an indispensable role in H19-mediated osteoblast formation and osteoclastgenesis. Mechanistically, H19 served as a sponge for miR-532-3p to upregulate E2F7, a transcriptional activator of EZH2, thereby accounting for modulating epigenetic suppression of PTEN. The in vivo experiments further validated that H19 exerted important impacts on tumor growth through breaking the balance between osteogenesis and osteolysis via Akt/mTOR signaling. CONCLUSION Collectively, increased enrichment of H19 in MM cells exhibits an essential role in MM development by disturbing bone homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninghong Guo
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Yuan Song
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Fuming Zi
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Jifu Zheng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, PR China
| | - Jing Cheng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, PR China.
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Waseem A, Rashid S, Rashid K, Khan MA, Khan R, Haque R, Seth P, Raza SS. Insight into the transcription factors regulating Ischemic Stroke and Glioma in Response to Shared Stimuli. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 92:102-127. [PMID: 37054904 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemic stroke and glioma are the two leading causes of patient mortality globally. Despite physiological variations, 1 in 10 people who have an ischemic stroke go on to develop brain cancer, most notably gliomas. In addition, glioma treatments have also been shown to increase the risk of ischemic strokes. Stroke occurs more frequently in cancer patients than in the general population, according to traditional literature. Unbelievably, these events share multiple pathways, but the precise mechanism underlying their co-occurrence remains unknown. Transcription factors (TFs), the main components of gene expression programmes, finally determine the fate of cells and homeostasis. Both ischemic stroke and glioma exhibit aberrant expression of a large number of TFs, which are strongly linked to the pathophysiology and progression of both diseases. The precise genomic binding locations of TFs and how TF binding ultimately relates to transcriptional regulation remain elusive despite a strong interest in understanding how TFs regulate gene expression in both stroke and glioma. As a result, the importance of continuing efforts to understand TF-mediated gene regulation is highlighted in this review, along with some of the primary shared events in stroke and glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshi Waseem
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Restorative Neurology, Department of Biotechnology, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Lucknow-226003, India
| | - Sumaiya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vontz Center for Molecular Studies, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0521
| | | | - Rehan Khan
- Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City,Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
| | - Rizwanul Haque
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya -824236, India
| | - Pankaj Seth
- Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, Neurovirology Section, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Haryana-122052, India
| | - Syed Shadab Raza
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Restorative Neurology, Department of Biotechnology, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Lucknow-226003, India; Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Era's Lucknow Medical College Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Lucknow-226003, India
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Zheng ZQ, Huang ZH, Liang YL, Zheng WH, Xu C, Li ZX, Liu N, Yang PY, Li YQ, Ma J, Sun Y, Tang LL, Wei D. VIRMA Promotes Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Tumorigenesis and Metastasis by Upregulation of E2F7 in an m6A-Dependent Manner. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104677. [PMID: 37028765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification possesses new and essential roles in tumor initiation and progression by regulating mRNA biology. However, the role of aberrant m6A regulation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unclear. Here, through comprehensive analyses of NPC cohorts from the GEO database and our internal cohort, we identified that VIRMA, an m6A writer, is significantly upregulated in NPC and plays an essential role in tumorigenesis and metastasis of NPC, both in vitro and in vivo. High VIRMA expression served as a prognostic biomarker and was associated with poor outcomes in patients with NPC. Mechanistically, VIRMA mediated the m6A methylation of E2F7 3'-UTR, then IGF2BP2 bound and maintained the stability of E2F7 mRNA. An integrative high-throughput sequencing approach revealed that E2F7 drives a unique transcriptome distinct from the classical E2F family in NPC, which functioned as an oncogenic transcriptional activator. E2F7 cooperated with CBFB-recruited RUNX1 in a non-canonical manner to transactivate ITGA2, ITGA5, and NTRK1, strengthening Akt signaling-induced tumor-promoting effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Qi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Zhuo-Hui Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Ye-Lin Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Hong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Na Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Pan-Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Qin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Jun Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China
| | - Ying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China.
| | - Ling-Long Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China.
| | - Denghui Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, P.R. China.
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Capobianco E, McGaughey V, Seraphin G, Heckel J, Rieger S, Lisse TS. Vitamin D inhibits osteosarcoma by reprogramming nonsense-mediated RNA decay and SNAI2-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.04.522778. [PMID: 36711643 PMCID: PMC9882006 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.04.522778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Osteosarcomas are immune-resistant and metastatic as a result of elevated nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although vitamin D has anti-cancer effects, its effectiveness and mechanism of action against osteosarcomas are poorly understood. In this study, we assessed the impact of vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) on the NMD-ROS-EMT signaling axis in in vitro and in vivo osteosarcoma animal models. Initiation of VDR signaling facilitated the enrichment of EMT pathway genes, after which 1,25(OH) 2 D, the active vitamin D derivative, inhibited the EMT pathway in osteosarcoma subtypes. The ligand-bound VDR directly downregulated the EMT inducer SNAI2 , differentiating highly metastatic from low metastatic subtypes and 1,25(OH) 2 D sensitivity. Moreover, epigenome-wide motif and putative target gene analysis revealed the VDR’s integration with NMD tumorigenic and immunogenic pathways. In an autoregulatory manner, 1,25(OH) 2 D inhibited NMD machinery genes and upregulated NMD target genes implicated in anti-oncogenic activity, immunorecognition, and cell-to-cell adhesion. Dicer substrate siRNA knockdown of SNAI2 revealed superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2)-mediated antioxidative responses and 1,25(OH) 2 D sensitization via non-canonical SOD2 nuclear-to-mitochondrial translocalization leading to overall ROS suppression. In a mouse xenograft metastasis model, the therapeutically relevant vitamin D derivative calcipotriol inhibited osteosarcoma metastasis and tumor growth shown for the first time. Our results uncover novel osteosarcoma-inhibiting mechanisms for vitamin D and calcipotriol that may be translated to human patients.
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Gugnoni M, Lorenzini E, Faria do Valle I, Remondini D, Castellani G, Torricelli F, Sauta E, Donati B, Ragazzi M, Ghini F, Piana S, Ciarrocchi A, Manzotti G. Adding pieces to the puzzle of differentiated-to-anaplastic thyroid cancer evolution: the oncogene E2F7. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:99. [PMID: 36765037 PMCID: PMC9918458 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05603-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC) is the most aggressive and de-differentiated subtype of thyroid cancer. Many studies hypothesized that ATC derives from Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC) through a de-differentiation process triggered by specific molecular events still largely unknown. E2F7 is an atypical member of the E2F family. Known as cell cycle inhibitor and keeper of genomic stability, in specific contexts its function is oncogenic, guiding cancer progression. We performed a meta-analysis on 279 gene expression profiles, from 8 Gene Expression Omnibus patient samples datasets, to explore the causal relationship between DTC and ATC. We defined 3 specific gene signatures describing the evolution from normal thyroid tissue to DTC and ATC and validated them in a cohort of human surgically resected ATCs collected in our Institution. We identified E2F7 as a key player in the DTC-ATC transition and showed in vitro that its down-regulation reduced ATC cells' aggressiveness features. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq profiling allowed the identification of the E2F7 specific gene program, which is mainly related to cell cycle progression and DNA repair ability. Overall, this study identified a signature describing DTC de-differentiation toward ATC subtype and unveiled an E2F7-dependent transcriptional program supporting this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Lorenzini
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Daniel Remondini
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gastone Castellani
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sauta
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology and Advanced Technologies, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Ghini
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Simonetta Piana
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology and Advanced Technologies, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Progress in targeting PTEN/PI3K/Akt axis in glioblastoma therapy: Revisiting molecular interactions. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114204. [PMID: 36916430 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most malignant cancers of central nervous system and due to its sensitive location, surgical resection has high risk and therefore, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are utilized for its treatment. However, chemoresistance and radio-resistance are other problems in GBM treatment. Hence, new therapies based on genes are recommended for treatment of GBM. PTEN is a tumor-suppressor operator in cancer that inhibits PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis in diminishing growth, metastasis and drug resistance. In the current review, the function of PTEN/PI3K/Akt axis in GBM progression is evaluated. Mutation or depletion of PTEN leads to increase in GBM progression. Low expression level of PTEN mediates poor prognosis in GBM and by increasing proliferation and invasion, promotes malignancy of tumor cells. Moreover, loss of PTEN signaling can result in therapy resistance in GBM. Activation of PTEN signaling impairs GBM metabolism via glycolysis inhibition. In contrast to PTEN, PI3K/Akt signaling has oncogenic function and during tumor progression, expression level of PI3K/Akt enhances. PI3K/Akt signaling shows positive association with oncogenic pathways and its expression similar to PTEN signaling, is regulated by non-coding RNAs. PTEN upregulation and PI3K/Akt signaling inhibition by anti-cancer agents can be beneficial in interfering GBM progression. This review emphasizes on the signaling networks related to PTEN/PI3K/Akt and provides new insights for targeting this axis in effective GBM treatment.
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Liao Q, Yang J, Ge S, Chai P, Fan J, Jia R. Novel insights into histone lysine methyltransferases in cancer therapy: From epigenetic regulation to selective drugs. J Pharm Anal 2023; 13:127-141. [PMID: 36908859 PMCID: PMC9999304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The reversible and precise temporal and spatial regulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) is essential for epigenome homeostasis. The dysregulation of KMTs is associated with tumor initiation, metastasis, chemoresistance, invasiveness, and the immune microenvironment. Therapeutically, their promising effects are being evaluated in diversified preclinical and clinical trials, demonstrating encouraging outcomes in multiple malignancies. In this review, we have updated recent understandings of KMTs' functions and the development of their targeted inhibitors. First, we provide an updated overview of the regulatory roles of several KMT activities in oncogenesis, tumor suppression, and immune regulation. In addition, we summarize the current targeting strategies in different cancer types and multiple ongoing clinical trials of combination therapies with KMT inhibitors. In summary, we endeavor to depict the regulation of KMT-mediated epigenetic landscape and provide potential epigenetic targets in the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qili Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Jiayan Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200001, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200001, China
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Fu L, Li Z, Wu Y, Zhu T, Ma Z, Dong L, Ding J, Zhang C, Yu G. Hsa-miR-195-5p Inhibits Autophagy and Gemcitabine Resistance of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells via E2F7/CEP55. Biochem Genet 2023:10.1007/s10528-023-10330-y. [PMID: 36658310 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10330-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a common malignancy. Many studies have shown that LUAD is resistant to gemcitabine chemotherapy, resulting in poor treatment outcomes in patients. We designed this study to reveal influences of hsa-miR-195-5p/E2F7/CEP55 axis on gemcitabine resistance and autophagy of LUAD cells. The expression data of LUAD-related mRNAs were downloaded from TCGA-LUAD database for differential expression analysis. The bioinformatics databases (hTFtarget, starBase and TargetScan) were used to predict the upstream and downstream regulatory molecules of E2F7. Then the binding relationships between E2F7 and regulatory molecules were verified by ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assay. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein levels of has-miR-195-5p, E2F7, and CEP55. CCK-8 assay was used to analyze the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and cell proliferation ability of LUAD cells after gemcitabine treatment. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Apoptosis/autophagy markers and LC3 aggregation were detected by western blot and immunofluorescence, respectively. Finally, the mouse transplantation model was constructed to verify the regulation mechanism in vivo. In LUAD cells and tissues, E2F7 and CEP55 were highly expressed, while has-miR-195-5p was relatively less expressed. The ChIP or dual-luciferase assays demonstrated the binding relationships of E2F7 to the CEP55 promoter region and has-miR-195-5p to the 3'-UTR of E2F7. Cell experiments demonstrated that overexpression of hsa-miR-195-5p stimulated LUAD cell apoptosis and inhibited autophagy and gemcitabine resistance, while further overexpression E2F7/CEP55 could reverse the impact by hsa-miR-195-5p overexpression. In vivo experiments identified that hsa-miR-195-5p/E2F7/CEP55 axis constrained the growth of LUAD tumor. Hsa-miR-195-5p promoted apoptosis, repressed proliferation, and autophagy via E2F7/CEP55 and reduced gemcitabine resistance in LUAD, indicating that hsa-miR-195-5p/E2F7/CEP55 may be a novel target for LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linhai Fu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhupeng Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuanlin Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhifeng Ma
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingjun Dong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianyi Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chu Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guangmao Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), 568 Zhongxing North Road, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, China.
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DNA repair/recombination protein 54L promotes the progression of lung adenocarcinoma by activating mTORC1 pathway. Hum Cell 2023; 36:421-433. [PMID: 36454390 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-022-00832-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most prevalent form of lung cancer and has a poor prognosis. RAD54L is a DNA repair protein upregulated in several cancer types, but its role in LUAD progression remains unclear. The objective of this study was to characterise the molecular pathways that oncogenic RAD54L modulates to drive LUAD progression. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)‒LUAD dataset was analysed to compare the RAD54L mRNA expression in LUAD tumours to that in normal lung tissue. RAD54L and E2F7 mRNA expression was confirmed in human cancer cell lines using RT-qPCR. Bioinformatics tools were used to predict the target genes and downstream signalling pathways of RAD54L. Proteins related to RAD54L, apoptosis, migration, and the mTORC1 pathway were assessed by Western blotting. Using the TCGA‒LUAD dataset, we found that RAD54L was higher in LUAD tumours compared to that in non-cancerous lung tissue, and RAD54L levels were significantly correlated with pathological TNM stage and unfavourable prognosis in patients with LUAD. RAD54L was ubiquitously upregulated in LUAD cells (NCI-H1975, H1299, H23 and A549). Furthermore, RAD54L silencing decreased cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, and induced cell apoptosis and G1 cell cycle phase arrest in H1299 and H23 human lung cancer cell lines. E2F7 was predicted as a target gene of RAD54L. E2F7 overexpression restored malignant cell behaviour in si-RAD54L-treated H1299 cells. Bioinformatic analysis suggested that the mTORC1 signalling pathway is downstream of RAD54L. Rapamycin treatment impaired RAD54L-mediated malignant cell behaviour in H1299 cells. Additionally, RAD54L promoted the progression of xenograft tumours and metastasis in vivo. In conclusion, the E2F7-RAD54L axis promotes the progression of LUAD through the mTORC1 signalling pathway.
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McCornack C, Woodiwiss T, Hardi A, Yano H, Kim AH. The function of histone methylation and acetylation regulators in GBM pathophysiology. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1144184. [PMID: 37205197 PMCID: PMC10185819 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1144184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and lethal primary brain malignancy and is characterized by a high degree of intra and intertumor cellular heterogeneity, a starkly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and nearly universal recurrence. The application of various genomic approaches has allowed us to understand the core molecular signatures, transcriptional states, and DNA methylation patterns that define GBM. Histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) have been shown to influence oncogenesis in a variety of malignancies, including other forms of glioma, yet comparatively less effort has been placed on understanding the transcriptional impact and regulation of histone PTMs in the context of GBM. In this review we discuss work that investigates the role of histone acetylating and methylating enzymes in GBM pathogenesis, as well as the effects of targeted inhibition of these enzymes. We then synthesize broader genomic and epigenomic approaches to understand the influence of histone PTMs on chromatin architecture and transcription within GBM and finally, explore the limitations of current research in this field before proposing future directions for this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin McCornack
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Timothy Woodiwiss
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa, IA, United States
| | - Angela Hardi
- Bernard Becker Medical Library, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hiroko Yano
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- The Brain Tumor Center, Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Albert H. Kim
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- The Brain Tumor Center, Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Albert H. Kim,
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Montella L, Cuomo M, Del Gaudio N, Buonaiuto M, Costabile D, Visconti R, Di Risi T, Vinciguerra R, Trio F, Ferraro S, Bove G, Facchini G, Altucci L, Chiariotti L, Della Monica R. Epigenetic alterations in glioblastomas: Diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic relevance. Int J Cancer 2022. [PMID: 36479695 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma, the most common and heterogeneous tumor affecting brain parenchyma, is dismally characterized by a very poor prognosis. Thus, the search of new, more effective treatments is a vital need. Here, we will review the druggable epigenetic features of glioblastomas that are, indeed, currently explored in preclinical studies and in clinical trials for the development of more effective, personalized treatments. In detail, we will review the studies that have led to the identification of epigenetic signatures, IDH mutations, MGMT gene methylation, histone modification alterations, H3K27 mutations and epitranscriptome landscapes of glioblastomas, in each case discussing the corresponding targeted therapies and their potential efficacy. Finally, we will emphasize how recent technological improvements permit to routinely investigate many glioblastoma epigenetic biomarkers in clinical practice, further enforcing the hope that personalized drugs, targeting specific epigenetic features, could be in future a therapeutic option for selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Montella
- ASL NA2 NORD, Oncology Operative Unit, "Santa Maria delle Grazie" Hospital, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Mariella Cuomo
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzio Del Gaudio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Buonaiuto
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Costabile
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,SEMM-European School of Molecular Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Visconti
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, Italian National Council of Research, Naples, Italy
| | - Teodolinda Di Risi
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Sara Ferraro
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Bove
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Facchini
- ASL NA2 NORD, Oncology Operative Unit, "Santa Maria delle Grazie" Hospital, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,BIOGEM, Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Chiariotti
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Della Monica
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate scarl, Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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Sun H, Li L, Lao I, Li X, Xu B, Cao Y, Jin W. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals cellular and molecular reprograming landscape of gliomas and lung cancer brain metastases. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1101. [PMID: 36336787 PMCID: PMC9637666 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain malignancies encompass gliomas and brain metastases originating from extracranial tumours including lung cancer. Approximately 50% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) will eventually develop brain metastases. However, the specific characteristics of gliomas and lung-to-brain metastases (LC) are largely unknown. METHODS We applied single-cell RNA sequencing to profile immune and nonimmune cells in 4 glioma and 10 LC samples. RESULTS Our analysis revealed that tumour microenvironment (TME) cells are present in heterogeneous subpopulations. LC reprogramed cells into immune suppressed state, including microglia, macrophages, endothelial cells, and CD8+ T cells, with unique cell proportions and gene signatures. Particularly, we identified that a subset of macrophages was associated with poor prognosis. ROS (reactive oxygen species)-producing neutrophils was found to participant in angiogenesis. Furthermore, endothelial cells participated in active communication with fibroblasts. Metastatic epithelial cells exhibited high heterogeneity in chromosomal instability (CIN) and cell population. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the heterogenicity of the tumor microenvironment and tumour cells and it will be crucial for successful immunotherapy development for brain metastasis of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- He‐Fen Sun
- Department of Breast SurgeryKey Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Liang‐Dong Li
- Department of Breast SurgeryKey Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of NeurosurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - I‐Weng Lao
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Breast SurgeryKey Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Bao‐Jin Xu
- Department of Breast SurgeryKey Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yi‐Qun Cao
- Department of NeurosurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wei Jin
- Department of Breast SurgeryKey Laboratory of Breast Cancer in ShanghaiFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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Loss of YB-1 alleviates liver fibrosis by suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatic progenitor cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166510. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Xi Y, Shen Y, Wu D, Zhang J, Lin C, Wang L, Yu C, Yu B, Shen W. CircBCAR3 accelerates esophageal cancer tumorigenesis and metastasis via sponging miR-27a-3p. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:145. [PMID: 35840974 PMCID: PMC9284725 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01615-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been demonstrated to contribute to esophageal cancer progression. CircBCAR3 (hsa_circ_0007624) is predicted to be differentially expressed in esophageal cancer by bioinformatics analysis. We investigated the oncogenic roles and biogenesis of circBCAR3 in esophageal carcinogenesis. METHODS Functions of circBCAR3 on cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and ferroptosis were explored using the loss-of-function assays. A xenograft mouse model was used to reveal effects of circBCAR3 on xenograft growth and lung metastasis. The upstream and downstream mechanisms of circBCAR3 were investigated by bioinformatics analysis and confirmed by RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. The dysregulated genes in hypoxia-induced esophageal cancer cells were identified using RNA-seq. RESULTS CircBCAR3 was highly expressed in esophageal cancer tissues and cells and its expression was increased by hypoxia in vitro. Silencing of circBCAR3 repressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, and ferroptosis of esophageal cancer cells in vitro, as well as inhibited the growth and metastasis of esophageal xenograft in mice in vivo. The hypoxia-induced promotive effects on esophageal cancer cell migration and ferroptosis were rescued by circBCAR3 knockdown. Mechanistically, circBCAR3 can interact with miR-27a-3p by the competitive endogenous RNA mechanism to upregulate transportin-1 (TNPO1). Furthermore, our investigation indicated that splicing factor quaking (QKI) is a positive regulator of circBCAR3 via targeting the introns flanking the hsa_circ_0007624-formed exons in BCAR3 pre-mRNA. Hypoxia upregulates E2F7 to transcriptionally activate QKI. CONCLUSION Our research demonstrated that splicing factor QKI promotes circBCAR3 biogenesis, which accelerates esophageal cancer tumorigenesis via binding with miR-27a-3p to upregulate TNPO1. These data suggested circBCAR3 as a potential target in the treatment of esophageal cancer. Hypoxia induces the upregulation of E2F7, which transcriptionally activates QKI in esophageal cancer cells. QKI increases the formation of circBCAR3 by juxtaposing the circularized exons. CircBCAR3 binds with miR-27a-3p to promote TNPO1 expression. CircBCAR3 promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, and ferroptosis of esophageal cancer cells by miR-27a-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Xi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yaxing Shen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 20032, China
| | - Donglei Wu
- School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510627, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingtao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chengbin Lin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lijie Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoqun Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bentong Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Weiyu Shen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
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Chen N, Peng C, Li D. Epigenetic Underpinnings of Inflammation: A Key to Unlock the Tumor Microenvironment in Glioblastoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:869307. [PMID: 35572545 PMCID: PMC9100418 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.869307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor in adults, and immunotherapies and genetic therapies for GBM have evolved dramatically over the past decade, but GBM therapy is still facing a dilemma due to the high recurrence rate. The inflammatory microenvironment is a general signature of tumors that accelerates epigenetic changes in GBM and helps tumors avoid immunological surveillance. GBM tumor cells and glioma-associated microglia/macrophages are the primary contributors to the inflammatory condition, meanwhile the modification of epigenetic events including DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, and histone methylation and deacetylases involved in this pathological process of GBM, finally result in exacerbating the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GBM. On the other hand, histone deacetylase inhibitors, DNA methyltransferases inhibitors, and RNA interference could reverse the inflammatory landscapes and inhibit GBM growth and invasion. Here, we systematically review the inflammatory-associated epigenetic changes and regulations in the microenvironment of GBM, aiming to provide a comprehensive epigenetic profile underlying the recognition of inflammation in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Characteristic Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Kang Z, Wang J, Huang W, Liu J, Yan W. Identification of Transcriptional Heterogeneity and Construction of a Prognostic Model for Melanoma Based on Single-Cell and Bulk Transcriptome Analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:874429. [PMID: 35646893 PMCID: PMC9136400 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.874429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and heterogeneous life-threatening cancers. However, the heterogeneity of melanoma and its impact on clinical outcomes are largely unknown. In the present study, intra-tumoral heterogeneity of melanoma cell subpopulations was explored using public single-cell RNA sequencing data. Marker genes, transcription factor regulatory networks, and gene set enrichment analysis were further analyzed. Marker genes of each malignant cluster were screened to create a prognostic risk score, and a nomogram tool was further generated to predict the prognosis of melanoma patients. It was found that malignant cells were divided into six clusters by different marker genes and biological characteristics in which the cell cycling subset was significantly correlated with unfavorable clinical outcomes, and the Wnt signaling pathway-enriched subset may be correlated with the resistance to immunotherapy. Based on the malignant marker genes, melanoma patients in TCGA datasets were divided into three groups which had different survival rates and immune infiltration states. Five malignant cell markers (PSME2, ARID5A, SERPINE2, GPC3, and S100A11) were selected to generate a prognostic risk score. The risk score was associated with overall survival independent of routine clinicopathologic characteristics. The nomogram tool showed good performance with an area under the curve value of 0.802.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Kang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wending Huang
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wending Huang, ; Jianmin Liu, ; Wangjun Yan,
| | - Jianmin Liu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wending Huang, ; Jianmin Liu, ; Wangjun Yan,
| | - Wangjun Yan
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wending Huang, ; Jianmin Liu, ; Wangjun Yan,
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IGF2BP1 Promotes Proliferation of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms by Post-Transcriptional Enhancement of EZH2. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092121. [PMID: 35565249 PMCID: PMC9131133 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are very heterogeneous malignancies arising at different sites of the body that show an increasing incidence in recent decades. Here, we show that IGF2 mRNA binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) is highly expressed in NEN cell lines, leading to enhanced cell proliferation. This oncogenic function relies on post-transcriptional stimulation of EZH2 expression by IGF2BP1, resulting in epigenetic silencing of cell cycle inhibitors via tri-methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3). Combinatorial pharmacological targeting of IGF2BP1, EZH2, and the EZH2-activator Myc leads to synergistic antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in NEN cells, representing a novel therapeutic strategy in neuroendocrine malignancies. Abstract Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a heterogenous class of highly vascularized neoplasms that are increasing in prevalence and are predominantly diagnosed at a metastatic state. The molecular mechanisms leading to tumor initiation, metastasis, and chemoresistance are still under investigation. Hence, identification of novel therapeutic targets is of great interest. Here, we demonstrate that the RNA-binding Protein IGF2BP1 is a post-transcriptional regulator of components of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), an epigenic modifier affecting transcriptional regulation and proliferation: Comprehensive in silico analyses along with in vitro experiments showed that IGF2BP1 promotes neuroendocrine tumor cell proliferation by stabilizing the mRNA of Enhancer of Zeste 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of PRC2, which represses gene expression by tri-methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3). The IGF2BP1-driven stabilization and protection of EZH2 mRNA is m6A-dependent and enhances EZH2 protein levels which stimulates cell cycle progression by silencing cell cycle arrest genes through enhanced H3K27 tri-methylation. Therapeutic inhibition of IGF2BP1 destabilizes EZH2 mRNA and results in a reduced cell proliferation, paralleled by an increase in G1 and sub-G1 phases. Combined targeting of IGF2BP1, EZH2, and Myc, a transcriptional activator of EZH2 and well-known target of IGF2BP1 cooperatively induces tumor cell apoptosis. Our data identify IGF2BP1 as an important driver of tumor progression in NEN, and indicate that disruption of the IGF2BP1-Myc-EZH2 axis represents a promising approach for targeted therapy of neuroendocrine neoplasms.
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Han Z, Mo R, Cai S, Feng Y, Tang Z, Ye J, Liu R, Cai Z, Zhu X, Deng Y, Zou Z, Wu Y, Cai Z, Liang Y, Zhong W. Differential Expression of E2F Transcription Factors and Their Functional and Prognostic Roles in Human Prostate Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:831329. [PMID: 35531101 PMCID: PMC9068940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.831329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the tumor heterogeneity, most of the current prognostic indicators cannot accurately evaluate the prognosis of patients with prostate cancer, and thus, the best opportunity to intervene in the progression of this disease is missed. E2F transcription factors (E2Fs) have been reported to be involved in the growth of various cancers. Accumulating studies indicate that prostate cancer (PCa) carcinogenesis is attributed to aberrant E2F expression or E2F alteration. However, the expression patterns and prognostic value of the eight E2Fs in prostate cancer have yet to be explored. In this study, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Kaplan–Meier Plotter, Metascape, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), CIBERSORT, and cBioPortal and bioinformatic analysis were used to investigate E2Fs in patients with PCa. Our results showed that the expression of E2F1–3, E2F5, and E2F6 was higher in prostate cancer tissues than in benign tissues. Furthermore, elevated E2F1–3 and E2F5 expression levels were associated with a higher Gleason score (GS), advanced tumor stage, and metastasis. Survival analysis suggested that high transcription levels of E2F1–3, E2F5, E2F6, and E2F8 were associated with a higher risk of biochemical recurrence. In addition, we developed a prognostic model combining E2F1, E2F6, Gleason score, and the clinical stage that may accurately predict a biochemical recurrence-free survival. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the E2F family members and their neighboring genes were mainly enriched in cell cycle-related pathways. Somatic mutations in different subgroups were also investigated, and immune components were predicted. Further experiments are warranted to clarify the biological associations between Pca-related E2F family genes, which may influence prognosis via the cell cycle pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaodong Han
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rujun Mo
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Shanghua Cai
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanfa Feng
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfeng Tang
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianheng Ye
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ren Liu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiduan Cai
- Department of Urology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuejin Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yulin Deng
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihao Zou
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongding Wu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhouda Cai
- Department of Andrology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxiang Liang
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yuxiang Liang, ; Weide Zhong,
| | - Weide Zhong
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yuxiang Liang, ; Weide Zhong,
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Zhang S, Cao S, Gong M, Zhang W, Zhang W, Zhu Z, Wu S, Yue Y, Qian W, Ma Q, Wang S, Wang Z. Mechanically activated ion channel Piezo1 contributes to melanoma malignant progression through AKT/mTOR signaling. Cancer Biol Ther 2022; 23:336-347. [PMID: 36112948 PMCID: PMC9037449 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2022.2060015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly aggressive cancer that can metastasize at early stage. The aim of this study is to clarify the role of Piezo1 and its potential mechanism in regulating the malignant phenotypes of melanoma. In the present study, we first showed that Piezo1 was abnormally expressed in melanoma, which accelerated the malignant progression by activating AKT/mTOR signaling. Firstly, we found that Piezo1 was upregulated in melanoma and associated with poor survival. Additionally, Piezo1 knockdown significantly weakened intracellular calcium signal and viability of melanoma cells. Furthermore, Piezo1 knockdown inhibited the transendothelial migration and invasion in vitro, as well as metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that Piezo1 activated AKT/mTOR signaling to maintain malignant phenotypes of melanoma. Therefore, Piezo1 acts as an oncogene in melanoma cells and provides a novel candidate for melanoma diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuang Cao
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care, Charité – Universitätsmedizin, Molecular and Translational Kidney Research, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mengyuan Gong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wunai Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weifan Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zeen Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuai Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yangyang Yue
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weikun Qian
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingyong Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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CircLATS2 Regulates miR-520a-3p/E2F7/p-VEGFR2 Signaling Pathway to Promote Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression and Angiogenesis. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:3744560. [PMID: 35444695 PMCID: PMC9015858 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3744560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of circLATS2 on the progression and angiogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma and its molecular mechanism. Methods The expression of circLATS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma was detected by qRT-PCR. The StarBase database was used to predict the potential miRNA, and the combination of the above was cytological verified by luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA pull down. The potential target genes of miRNA were predicted by TargetScan, verified by the above experiments, and the influence of circLATS2 on its expression was determined. The biological function of circLATS2 was investigated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The effects of miRNA and target genes on the malignant behavior of HCC cells were determined by the reverse experiment. Results circLATS2 was highly expressed in HCC and was positively correlated with tumor size and tumor stage. miR-520a-3p was sponged by circLATS2 and was low expressed in HCC tissues. As the target gene of miR-520a-3p, the expression level of E2F7 is affected by circLATS2. In vitro experiments showed that circLATS2 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, clone formation, migration, and invasion ability of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In vivo knockdown of circLATS2 inhibits the proliferation of HCC cells, while overexpression of circLATS2 promotes the proliferation of HCC cells. Overexpression of miR-520a-3p and E2F7 knockdown reversed the role of circLATS2 in promoting malignant behavior of HCC cells and affected phosphorylation of VEGFR2. Conclusion CircLATS2 promotes the progression of HCC by regulating miR-520a-3p/E2F7/P-VEGFR2 signaling pathway.
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Bekeschus S, Liebelt G, Menz J, Singer D, Wende K, Schmidt A. Cell cycle-related genes associate with sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide-induced toxicity. Redox Biol 2022; 50:102234. [PMID: 35063803 PMCID: PMC8783094 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) are well-described agents in physiology and pathology. Chronic inflammation causes incessant H2O2 generation associated with disease occurrences such as diabetes, autoimmunity, and cancer. In cancer, conditioning of the tumor microenvironment, e.g., hypoxia and ROS generation, has been associated with disease outcomes and therapeutic efficacy. Many reports have investigated the roles of the action of H2O2 across many cell lines and disease models. The genes predisposing tumor cell lines to H2O2-mediated demise are less deciphered, however. To this end, we performed in-house transcriptional profiling of 35 cell lines and simultaneously investigated each cell line's H2O2 inhibitory concentration (IC25) based on metabolic activity. More than 100-fold differences were observed between the most resistant and sensitive cell lines. Correlation and gene ontology pathway analysis identified a rigid association with genes intertwined in cell cycle progression and proliferation, as such functional categories dominated the top ten significant processes. The ten most substantially correlating genes (Spearman r > 0.70 or < -0.70) were validated using qPCR, showing complete congruency with microarray analysis findings. Western blotting confirmed the correlation of cell cycle-related proteins negatively correlating with H2O2 IC25. Top genes related to ROS production or antioxidant defense were only modest in correlation (Spearman r > 0.40 or < -0.40). In conclusion, our in-house transcriptomic correlation analysis revealed a set of cell cycle-associated genes associated with a priori resistance or sensitivity to H2O2-induced cellular demise with the detailed and causative roles of individual genes remaining unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Grit Liebelt
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jonas Menz
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany; Department of General, Visceral, Vascular, and Thorax Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Debora Singer
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Kristian Wende
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anke Schmidt
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
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Transcription Factors with Targeting Potential in Gliomas. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073720. [PMID: 35409080 PMCID: PMC8998804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas portray a large and heterogeneous group of CNS tumors, encompassing a wide range of low- to high-grade tumors, as defined by histological and molecular characteristics. The identification of signature mutations and other molecular abnormalities has largely impacted tumor classification, diagnosis, and therapy. Transcription factors (TFs) are master regulators of gene expression programs, which ultimately shape cell fate and homeostasis. A variety of TFs have been detected to be aberrantly expressed in brain tumors, being highly implicated in critical pathological aspects and progression of gliomas. Herein, we describe a selection of oncogenic (GLI-1/2/3, E2F1–8, STAT3, and HIF-1/2) and tumor suppressor (NFI-A/B, TBXT, MYT1, and MYT1L) TFs that are deregulated in gliomas and are subsequently associated with tumor development, progression, and migratory potential. We further discuss the current targeting options against these TFs, including chemical (Bortezomib) and natural (Plumbagin) compounds, small molecules, and inhibitors, and address their potential implications in glioma therapy.
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Zhou Y, Wang JH, Han JP, Feng JY, Guo K, Du F, Chen WB, Li YZ. Dihydroartemisinin ameliorates chronic nonbacterial prostatitis and epithelial cellular inflammation by blocking the E2F7/HIF1α pathway. Inflamm Res 2022; 71:449-460. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-022-01544-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Chen R, Zhang Z, Hu B, Jiang M, Zheng P, Deng W, Fu B, Sun T. Identification of the Expression and Clinical Significance of E2F Family in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:1193-1212. [PMID: 35153510 PMCID: PMC8827415 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s349723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple studies have identified that E2F transcriptions act as important regulators for the tumorigenesis and progression of several human cancers. However, little is known about the function of E2Fs in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods We firstly investigated the expression levels, genetic alteration, and biological function of E2Fs in patients with ccRCC and the connections between the immune cell infiltration and the overall survivals of ccRCC patients with the E2Fs expression levels based on UALCAN, The Cancer Genome Atlas database, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, TIMER, STRING, GSCALite and cBioPortal databases. Results Results revealed that the expression levels of E2F1/2/3/4/6/7/8 were markedly upregulated in patients with ccRCC, while the expression of E2F5 displayed an opposite trend. We also experimentally validated the overexpression of E2F3/4/7 in human ccRCC tissues and ccRCC cell lines. Furthermore, the high E2F1/2/3/4/7/8 expression levels were clearly associated with worse pathological characteristics of ccRCC, including high pathological stage, poor molecular subtypes and high tumor grade. Meanwhile, high expression levels of E2F1/2/4/7/8 were evidently associated with worse overall survivals (OSs) and progression-free survivals (PFSs) of patients harboring ccRCC. Univariate and multivariate analyses illustrated that the expressions of E2F4/5/7 were independent factors associated with the OSs and PFSs of patients with ccRCC. Meanwhile, the mutations in E2Fs were also significantly related to poor OSs and PFSs of patients with ccRCC. Mechanically, the E2Fs genes synergistically promoted the progression of ccRCC by accelerating the cell cycle and inhibiting DNA damage response and apoptosis after performing the protein structure, functional enrichment, and PPI network analyses. In addition, E2Fs genes were also significantly associated with tumor immune cells infiltration and the drug sensitivity in ccRCC. Conclusion As a result, E2F4/7 were highly expressed in ccRCC and significantly associated with worse pathological characteristics of ccRCC, including high pathological stage, poor molecular subtypes and high tumor grade, tumor immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity, consequently translating into poor OSs and PFSs of patients with ccRCC. Our results indicated that E2F4/7 could be potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets of ccRCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Putian City, Putian, 350001, Fujian, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhicheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Hu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Department of Urology, Shangrao municipal Hospital, Shangrao, 334000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Deng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Fu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Bin Fu; Ting Sun, Email ;
| | - Ting Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang City, 330000, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China
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Zhang Y, Qin P, Xu X, Li M, Huang H, Yan J, Zhou Y. Mediator Complex Subunit 19 Promotes the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating the AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Front Oncol 2022; 11:792285. [PMID: 35047403 PMCID: PMC8761619 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.792285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors, the pathogenesis of which remains unclear. Mediator complex subunit 19 (MED19), a subunit of the Mediator complex, is a multi-protein co-activator necessary for DNA transcription factors to induce RNA polymerase II transcription. In the current study, we aimed to study the role of MED19 in HCC and elucidate its mechanism. Methods MED19 expression in HCC tissues was determined. The relationship between MED19 and the clinical prognosis was explored. The influence of MED19 on HCC cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis was studied. The expression of AKT/mTOR pathway genes and proteins was detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. The correlation between MED19 and immune infiltration was investigated. Results MED19 was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with tumor-adjacent tissues, and was associated with a poor prognosis. Furthermore, high MED19 expression was correlated with race, gender, etc. Knockdown of MED19 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and promoted apoptosis. Knockdown of MED19 decreased p-AKT and p-mTOR protein expression. Additionally, the downstream effectors of the AKT/mTOR pathway, p70S6K1 and 4EBP1, were affected by MED19. Notably, MED19 expression was positively correlated with the infiltration levels of B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, macrophages, etc. Conclusion MED19 is significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and cells. MED19 may promote the progression of HCC in vitro and may be related to immune infiltration. Together, our data show that MED19 could be considered as a new possible biomarker as well as a novel therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Peifang Qin
- Department of Microbiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Xingfeng Xu
- Department of Physiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Physiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Haitao Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Jianguo Yan
- Department of Physiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Yali Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.,Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
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Differential Regulation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/PTEN Pathway between Low- and High-Grade Gliomas. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11121655. [PMID: 34942957 PMCID: PMC8699139 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11121655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas represent 70% of all central system nervous tumors and are classified according to the degree of malignancy as low- or high-grade. The permanent activation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT pathway by various genetic or post-translational alterations of EGFR, PI3KCA, and PTEN has been associated with increased proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. The present study aimed to analyze the molecular/genetic changes in the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/PTEN pathway between low-grade and high-grade gliomas in a sample of Colombian patients. A total of 30 samples were tested for PI3K and PTEN mutations, EGFR, PI3K, and AKT gene amplification, AKT, PI3K, BAX, Bcl2 expression levels, and phosphorylation of AKT and PTEN, EGFR and/or PI3K gene amplification was found in 50% of low-grade and 45% of high-grade ones. AKT amplification was found in 25% of the low-grade and 13.6% of the high-grade. The expression of PI3K, AKT, Bcl2, and BAX was increased particularly to a high degree. AKT phosphorylation was found in 66% of low-grade and 31.8% of high-grade. Increased phosphorylation of PTEN was found in 77% low-grade and 66% high-grade. Our results indicate that alterations in the EGFR/PI3K/AKT/PTEN pathway could be important in the initiation and malignant progression of this type of tumor.
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EZH2 as a new therapeutic target in brain tumors: Molecular landscape, therapeutic targeting and future prospects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112532. [PMID: 34906772 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide. The brain tumor treatment depends on identification of molecular pathways involved in progression and malignancy. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has obtained much attention in recent years in field of cancer therapy due to its aberrant expression and capacity in modulating expression of genes by binding to their promoter and affecting methylation status. The present review focuses on EZH2 signaling in brain tumors including glioma, glioblastoma, astrocytoma, ependymomas, medulloblastoma and brain rhabdoid tumors. EZH2 signaling mainly participates in increasing proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. However, in medulloblastoma, EZH2 demonstrates tumor-suppressor activity. Furthermore, EZH2 can regulate response of brain tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Various molecular pathways can function as upstream mediators of EZH2 in brain tumors including lncRNAs and miRNAs. Owing to its enzymatic activity, EZH2 can bind to promoter of target genes to induce methylation and affects their expression. EZH2 can be considered as an independent prognostic factor in brain tumors that its upregulation provides undesirable prognosis. Both anti-tumor agents and gene therapies such as siRNA have been developed for targeting EZH2 in cancer therapy.
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