1
|
Geng W, An J, Dong K, Zhang H, Zhang X, Liu Y, Xu R, Liu Y, Huang X, Song H, Yan W, Sun A, He F, Wang J, Gao H, Tian C. ZNF8 Orchestrates with Smad3 to Promote Lung Metastasis by Recruiting SMYD3 in Breast Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2404904. [PMID: 39225541 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202404904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Most deaths in breast cancer patients are attributed to metastasis, and lung metastasis is associated with a particularly poor prognosis; therefore it is imperative to identify potential target for intervention. The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway plays a vital role in breast cancer metastasis, in which Smad3 is the key mediator and performs specific functions by binding with different cofactors. However, Smad3 cofactors involved in lung metastasis have not yet been identified. This study first establishes the interactome of Smad3 in breast cancer cells and identifies ZNF8 as a novel Smad3 cofactor. Furthermore, the results reveal that ZNF8 is closely associated with breast cancer lung metastasis prognosis, and specifically facilitates TGF-β pathway-mediated breast cancer lung metastasis by participating in multiple processes. Mechanistically, ZNF8 binds with Smad3 to enhance the H3K4me3 modification and promote the expression of lung metastasis signature genes by recruiting SMYD3. SMYD3 inhibition by BCI121 effectively prevents ZNF8-mediated lung metastasis. Overall, the study identifies a novel cofactor of TGF-β/Smad3 that promotes lung metastasis in breast cancer and introduces potential therapeutic strategies for the early management of breast cancer lung metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Geng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
- Laboratory of Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Junhua An
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
- Laboratory of Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
- Laboratory of Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Hailu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
| | - Xiuyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Yuchen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Rong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Xiaofen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
| | - Haiyun Song
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Wei Yan
- The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100036, China
| | - Aihua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
- Research Unit of Proteomics Dirven Cancer Precision Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Fuchu He
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- Research Unit of Proteomics Dirven Cancer Precision Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
| | - Haidong Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
- Laboratory of Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266000, China
| | - Chunyan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 102206, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei, 071002, China
- Research Unit of Proteomics Dirven Cancer Precision Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 102206, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tong T, Huang M, Yan B, Lin B, Yu J, Teng Q, Li P, Pang J. Hippo signaling modulation and its biological implications in urological malignancies. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 98:101280. [PMID: 38870717 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2024.101280] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Although cancer diagnosis and treatment have rapidly advanced in recent decades, urological malignancies, which have high morbidity and mortality rates, are among the most difficult diseases to treat. The Hippo signaling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway in organ size control and tissue homeostasis maintenance. Its downstream effectors, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), are key modulators of numerous physiological and pathological processes. Recent work clearly indicates that Hippo signaling is frequently altered in human urological malignancies. In this review, we discuss the disparate viewpoints on the upstream regulators of YAP/TAZ and their downstream targets and systematically summarize the biological implications. More importantly, we highlight the molecular mechanisms involved in Hippo-YAP signaling to improve our understanding of its role in every stage of prostate cancer, bladder cancer and kidney cancer progression. A better understanding of the biological outcomes of YAP/TAZ modulation will contribute to the establishment of future therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tongyu Tong
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China; Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Mengjun Huang
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China; Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Binyuan Yan
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Bingbiao Lin
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China; Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No. 7 Raoping Road, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China
| | - Jiaying Yu
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Qiliang Teng
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China; Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China
| | - Peng Li
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Jun Pang
- Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tang X, Huang Y, Fu W, Wang P, Feng L, Yang J, Zhu H, Huang X, Ming Q, Li P. Digirseophene A promotes recovery in injured developing cerebellum via AMPK/AKT/GSK3β pathway-mediated neural stem cell proliferation. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117046. [PMID: 38981241 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117046] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) exhibit a remarkable capacity for self-renewal and have the potential to differentiate into various neural lineage cells, which makes them pivotal in the management of neurological disorders. Harnessing the inherent potential of endogenous NSCs for enhancing nerve repair and regeneration represents an optimal approach to addressing diseases of the nervous system. In this study, we explored the potential of a novel benzophenone derivative named Digirseophene A (DGA), which was isolated from the endophytic fungus Corydalis tomentella. Previous experiments have extensively identified and characterized DGA, revealing its unique properties. Our findings demonstrate the remarkable capability of DGA to stimulate neural stem cell proliferation, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we established a model of radiation-induced cerebellar injury to assess the effects of DGA on the distribution of different cell subpopulations within the damaged cerebellum, thereby suggesting its beneficial role in cerebellar repair. In addition, our observations on a primary NSCs model revealed that DGA significantly increased cellular oxygen consumption, indicating increased energy and metabolic demands. By utilizing various pathway inhibitors in combination with DGA, we successfully demonstrated its ability to counteract the suppressive impacts of AMPK and GSK3β inhibitors on NSC proliferation. Collectively, our research results strongly suggest that DGA, as an innovative compound, exerts its role in activating NSCs and promoting injury repair through the regulation of the AMPK/AKT/GSK3β pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Tang
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Yuting Huang
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Wenying Fu
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Pengbo Wang
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Liyuan Feng
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Jie Yang
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Xiuning Huang
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China
| | - Qianliang Ming
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China.
| | - Peng Li
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan Centre Street, Shapingba District, Chong Qing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hu X, Zhu X, Chen Y, Zhang W, Li L, Liang H, Usmanov BB, Donadon M, Yusupbekov AA, Zheng Y. Senescence-related signatures predict prognosis and response to immunotherapy in colon cancer. J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 15:1020-1034. [PMID: 38989417 PMCID: PMC11231866 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-24-339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers. Cellular senescence plays a vital role in carcinogenesis by activating many pathways. In this study, we aimed to identify biomarkers for predicting the survival and recurrence of CRC through cellular senescence-related genes. Methods Utilizing The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, RNA-sequencing data and clinical information for CRC were collected. A risk model for predicting overall survival was established based on five differentially expressed genes using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-Cox regression (LASSO-Cox regression), receiver operating characteristic (ROC), and Kaplan-Meier analyses. The study also delved into both the tumor microenvironment and the response to immunotherapy. Moreover, we gathered clinical sample data from our center in order to confirm the findings of public database analysis. Results Through ROC and Kaplan-Meier analyses, a risk model was developed using five cellular senescence-related genes [i.e., CDKN2A, SERPINE1, SNAI1, CXCL1, and ETS2] to categorize patients into high- and low-risk groups. In the TCGA-colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) and GEO-COAD cohorts, the high-risk group was associated with a bleaker forecast (P<0.05), immune cell inactivation, and insensitivity to immunotherapy in IMvigor210 database (http://research-pub.gene.com/IMvigor210CoreBiologies/). Clinical samples were then used to confirm that ETS2 and CDKN2A could serve as independent prognostic biomarkers in CRC. Conclusions Gene signatures related to cellular senescence, specifically involving CDKN2A and ETS2, are emerging as promising biomarkers for predicting CRC prognosis and guiding immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshan Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiongjie Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenkai Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Laiqing Li
- Guangzhou Youdi Bio-technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Huankun Liang
- Guangzhou Youdi Bio-technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Bekzod B Usmanov
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Tashkent State Pediatric Institute, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Surgery, University Maggiore Hospital della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Abrorjon A Yusupbekov
- Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Oncology and Radiology (National Cancer Center of Uzbekistan), Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Yanfang Zheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fang Y, Wang Y, Ma H, Guo Y, Xu R, Chen X, Chen X, Lv Y, Li P, Gao Y. TFAP2A downregulation mediates tumor-suppressive effect of miR-8072 in triple-negative breast cancer via inhibiting SNAI1 transcription. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:103. [PMID: 38890750 PMCID: PMC11186287 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01858-x] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a highly aggressive subset of breast malignancies characterized by its challenging clinical management and unfavorable prognosis. While TFAP2A, a member of the AP-2 transcription factor family, has been implicated in maintaining the basal phenotype of breast cancer, its precise regulatory role in TNBC remains undefined. METHODS In vitro assessments of TNBC cell growth and migratory potential were conducted using MTS, colony formation, and EdU assays. Quantitative PCR was employed to analyze mRNA expression levels, while Western blot was utilized to evaluate protein expression and phosphorylation status of AKT and ERK. The post-transcriptional regulation of TFAP2A by miR-8072 and the transcriptional activation of SNAI1 by TFAP2A were investigated through luciferase reporter assays. A xenograft mouse model was employed to assess the in vivo growth capacity of TNBC cells. RESULTS Selective silencing of TFAP2A significantly impeded the proliferation and migration of TNBC cells, with elevated TFAP2A expression observed in breast cancer tissues. Notably, TNBC patients exhibiting heightened TFAP2A levels experienced abbreviated overall survival. Mechanistically, TFAP2A was identified as a transcriptional activator of SNAI1, a crucial regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cellular proliferation, thereby augmenting the oncogenic properties of TFAP2A in TNBC. Moreover, miR-8072 was unveiled as a negative regulator of TFAP2A, exerting potent inhibitory effects on TNBC cell growth and migration. Importantly, the tumor-suppressive actions mediated by the miR-8072/TFAP2A axis were intricately associated with the attenuation of AKT/ERK signaling cascades and the blockade of EMT processes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings unravel the role and underlying molecular mechanism of TFAP2A in driving tumorigenesis of TNBC. Targeting the TFAP2A/SNAI1 pathway and utilizing miR-8072 as a suppressor represent promising therapeutic strategies for treating TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Fang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yali Wang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hongning Ma
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Central Laboratory of People's Hospital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yuqi Guo
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Rongrong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xixi Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuehua Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Lv
- Oncology Department of Cancer Hospital, General Hospital, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
| | - Pu Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yujing Gao
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu X, Zhuang X, Yu H, Li P, Li X, Lin H, Teoh JP, Chen Y, Yang Y, Cheng Y, Chen W, Fu X. FSH induces EMT in ovarian cancer via ALKBH5-regulated Snail m6A demethylation. Theranostics 2024; 14:2151-2166. [PMID: 38505602 PMCID: PMC10945345 DOI: 10.7150/thno.94161] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The therapeutic benefits of targeting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor in treatment of ovarian cancer are significant, whereas the role of FSH in ovarian cancer progresses and the underlying mechanism remains to be developed. Methods: Tissue microarray of human ovarian cancer, tumor xenograft mouse model, and in vitro cell culture were used to investigate the role of FSH in ovarian carcinogenesis. siRNA, lentivirus and inhibitors were used to trigger the inactivation of genes, and plasmids were used to increase transcription of genes. Specifically, pathological characteristic was assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC), while signaling pathway was studied using western blot, quantitative RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence. Results: Histology and IHC of human normal ovarian and tumor tissue confirmed the association between FSH and Snail in ovarian cancer metastasis. Moreover, in epithelial ovarian cancer cells and xenograft mice, FSH was showed to promote epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) progress and metastasis of ovarian cancer via prolonging the half-life of Snail mRNA in a N6-methyladenine methylation (m6A) dependent manner, which was mechanistically through the CREB/ALKBH5 signaling pathway. Conclusions: These findings indicated that FSH induces EMT progression and ovarian cancer metastasis via CREB/ALKBH5/Snail pathway. Thus, this study provided new insight into the therapeutic strategy of ovarian cancer patients with high level of FSH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingyan Xu
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuefen Zhuang
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haowei Yu
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Li
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaosa Li
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiping Lin
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-peng Teoh
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiwen Chen
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanlan Yang
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Cheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiyu Chen
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Fu
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sun K, Liao S, Yao X, Yao F. USP30 promotes the progression of breast cancer by stabilising Snail. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:472-483. [PMID: 38146008 PMCID: PMC10940155 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00718-8] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent tumour in women worldwide. USP30 is a deubiquitinase that has been previously reported to promote tumour progression and lipid synthesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the role of USP30 in breast cancer remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated its biological action and corresponding mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. In our study, we found that USP30 was highly expressed in breast cancer samples and correlated with a poor patient prognosis. Knockdown of USP30 significantly suppressed the proliferation, invasion and migration abilities of BC cells in vitro and tumour growth in vivo, whereas overexpression of USP30 exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, we verified that USP30 interacts with and stabilises Snail to promote its protein expression through deubiquitination by K48-linked polyubiquitin chains and then accelerates the EMT program. More importantly, USP30 reduced the chemosensitivity of BC cells to paclitaxel (PTX). Collectively, these data demonstrate that USP30 promotes the BC cell EMT program by stabilising Snail and attenuating chemosensitivity to PTX and may be a potential therapeutic target in BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Sun
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Shichong Liao
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Xinrui Yao
- School of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Feng Yao
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gao B, Wu X, Bu L, Jiang Q, Wang L, Liu H, Zhang X, Wu Y, Li X, Li J, Liang Y, Xu L, Xie W, Guo J. Atypical inflammatory kinase IKBKE phosphorylates and inactivates FoxA1 to promote liver tumorigenesis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk2285. [PMID: 38324694 PMCID: PMC10849599 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk2285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Physiologically, FoxA1 plays a key role in liver differentiation and development, and pathologically exhibits an oncogenic role in prostate and breast cancers. However, its role and upstream regulation in liver tumorigenesis remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that FoxA1 acts as a tumor suppressor in liver cancer. Using a CRISPR-based kinome screening approach, noncanonical inflammatory kinase IKBKE has been identified to inhibit FoxA1 transcriptional activity. Notably, IKBKE directly binds to and phosphorylates FoxA1 to reduce its complex formation and DNA interaction, leading to elevated hepatocellular malignancies. Nonphosphorylated mimic Foxa1 knock-in mice markedly delay liver tumorigenesis in hydrodynamic transfection murine models, while phospho-mimic Foxa1 knock-in phenocopy Foxa1 knockout mice to exhibit developmental defects and liver inflammation. Notably, Ikbke knockout delays diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced mouse liver tumor development. Together, our findings not only reveal FoxA1 as a bona fide substrate and negative nuclear effector of IKBKE in hepatocellular carcinioma (HCC) but also provide a promising strategy to target IKBEK for HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Gao
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510275, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xueji Wu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Lang Bu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Qiwei Jiang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Haining Liu
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510275, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Yuanzhong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, China
| | - Xiaoxing Li
- Center of Hepato-Pancreate-Biliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510275, China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jingting Li
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Ying Liang
- Department of Nephrology, Guangzhou Eighth People′s Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong 510060, China
| | - Lixia Xu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jianping Guo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang C, Liang S, Zhang H, Wang R, Qiao H. Epigenetic regulation of mRNA mediates the phenotypic plasticity of cancer cells during metastasis and therapeutic resistance (Review). Oncol Rep 2024; 51:28. [PMID: 38131215 PMCID: PMC10777459 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8687] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasticity, the ability of cancer cells to transition between differentiation states without genomic alterations, has been recognized as a major source of intratumoral heterogeneity. It has a crucial role in cancer metastasis and treatment resistance. Thus, targeting plasticity holds tremendous promise. However, the molecular mechanisms of plasticity in cancer cells remain poorly understood. Several studies found that mRNA, which acts as a bridge linking the genetic information of DNA and protein, has an important role in translating genotypes into phenotypes. The present review provided an overview of the regulation of cancer cell plasticity occurring via changes in the transcription and editing of mRNAs. The role of the transcriptional regulation of mRNA in cancer cell plasticity was discussed, including DNA‑binding transcriptional factors, DNA methylation, histone modifications and enhancers. Furthermore, the role of mRNA editing in cancer cell plasticity was debated, including mRNA splicing and mRNA modification. In addition, the role of non‑coding (nc)RNAs in cancer plasticity was expounded, including microRNAs, long intergenic ncRNAs and circular RNAs. Finally, different strategies for targeting cancer cell plasticity to overcome metastasis and therapeutic resistance in cancer were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunzhi Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China
| | - Siyuan Liang
- Functional Materials Laboratory, Institute of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China
| | - Hanning Zhang
- Clinical Medical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300270, P.R. China
| | - Ruoxi Wang
- Sophomore, Farragut School #3 of Yangtai Road, Tianjin 300042, P.R. China
| | - Huanhuan Qiao
- Functional Materials Laboratory, Institute of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300211, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Han Y, Rovella V, Smirnov A, Buonomo OC, Mauriello A, Perretta T, Shi Y, Woodmsith J, Bischof J, Melino G, Candi E, Bernassola F. A BRCA2 germline mutation and high expression of immune checkpoints in a TNBC patient. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:370. [PMID: 37813891 PMCID: PMC10562433 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01651-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of mammary carcinoma. Here, we describe a case of an 81-year-old female diagnosed with ductal triple negative breast cancer with a germline pathogenic variant in BReast CAncer gene2 (BRCA2). Genetic testing also revealed the presence of four somatic mutations in the ephrin type-A receptor 3 (EphA3), TP53, BRCA1-associated protein (BAP1), and MYB genes. The BRCA2, TP53, and BAP1 gene mutations are highly predictive of a defective homologous recombination repair system and subsequent chromosomal instability in this patient. Coherently, the patient displayed a strong homologous recombination deficiency signature and high tumor mutational burden status, which are generally associated with increased probability of immune neoantigens formation and presentation, and with tumor immunogenicity. Analysis of immune checkpoint revealed high expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), programmed cell death ligand 2 (PD-L2), programmed death 1 (PD1), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA 4), suggesting that the patient might likely benefit from immunotherapies. Altogether, these findings support an unveiled link between BRCA2 inactivation, HR deficiency and increased expression of immune checkpoints in TNBC. This clinical case highlights the importance of screening TNBC patients for genetic mutations and TMB biomarkers in order to predict the potential efficacy of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyi Han
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 214000, Wuxi, China
| | - Valentina Rovella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Artem Smirnov
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Istituto Dermopatico Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS), 00100, Rome, Italy
| | - Oreste Claudio Buonomo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mauriello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Perretta
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Policlinico Tor Vergata University, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Yufang Shi
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | | | - Julia Bischof
- Indivumed GmbH, Falkenried, 88 Building D, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Candi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Istituto Dermopatico Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS), 00100, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Bernassola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yang X, Smirnov A, Buonomo OC, Mauriello A, Shi Y, Bischof J, Woodsmith J, Melino G, Candi E, Bernassola F. A primary luminal/HER2 negative breast cancer patient with mismatch repair deficiency. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:365. [PMID: 37783677 PMCID: PMC10545677 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01650-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present the case of a 47-year-old woman diagnosed with luminal B breast cancer subtype and provide an in-depth analysis of her gene mutations, chromosomal alterations, mRNA and protein expression changes. We found a point mutation in the FGFR2 gene, which is potentially hyper-activating the receptor function, along with over-expression of its ligand FGF20 due to genomic amplification. The patient also harbors somatic and germline mutations in some mismatch repair (MMR) genes, with a strong MMR mutational signature. The patient displays high microsatellite instability (MSI) and tumor mutational burden (TMB) status and increased levels of CTLA-4 and PD-1 expression. Altogether, these data strongly implicate that aberrant FGFR signaling, and defective MMR system might be involved in the development of this breast tumor. In addition, high MSI and TMB in the context of CTLA-4 and PD-L1 positivity, suggest the potential benefit of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Accurate characterization of molecular subtypes, based on gene mutational and expression profiling analyses, will be certainly helpful for individualized treatment and targeted therapy of breast cancer patients, especially for those subtypes with adverse outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yang
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Artem Smirnov
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
- Istituto Dermopatico Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS), 00100, Rome, Italy
| | - Oreste Claudio Buonomo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mauriello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Yufang Shi
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Julia Bischof
- Indivumed GmbH, Falkenried, Germany Biochemistry Laboratory, 88 Building D, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jonathan Woodsmith
- Indivumed GmbH, Falkenried, Germany Biochemistry Laboratory, 88 Building D, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.
| | - Eleonora Candi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
- Istituto Dermopatico Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS), 00100, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Bernassola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Luo Y, Zhu Q, Xiang S, Wang Q, Li J, Chen X, Yan W, Feng J, Zu X. Downregulated circPOKE promotes breast cancer metastasis through activation of the USP10-Snail axis. Oncogene 2023; 42:3236-3251. [PMID: 37717099 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02823-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death among females. Metastasis accounts for the majority of BC related deaths. One feasible strategy to solve this challenging problem is to disrupt the capabilities required for tumor metastasis. Herein, we verified a novel metastasis suppressive circRNA, circPOKE in BC. circPOKE was downregulated in primary and metastatic BC tissues and overexpression of circPOKE inhibited the metastatic potential but not the proliferative ability of BC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circPOKE competitively binds to USP10, and reduces its binding to Snail, a key transcriptional regulator of EMT, thereby inhibiting Snail stability via the protein-ubiquitination degradation pathway. In addition, we found that circPOKE could be secreted into the extracellular space via exosomes and that exosome-carried circPOKE significantly inhibited the invasive capabilities of BC cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the levels of circPOKE, USP10 and Snail are clinically relevant in BC, suggesting that circPOKE may be used as a potential therapeutic target for patients with BC metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Luo
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Qingyun Zhu
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Shasha Xiang
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Qi Wang
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Xiguang Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Wen Yan
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Jianbo Feng
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China.
| | - Xuyu Zu
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dynamic miRNA Landscape Links Mammary Gland Development to the Regulation of Milk Protein Expression in Mice. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060727. [PMID: 35327124 PMCID: PMC8944794 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Milk synthesis is vital for maintaining the normal growth of newborn animals. Abnormal mammary gland development leads to a decrease in female productivity and the overall productivity of animal husbandry. This study characterized the dynamic miRNA expression profile during the process of mammary gland development, and identified a novel miRNA regulating expression of β-casein—an important milk protein. The results are valuable for studying mammary gland development, increasing milk production, improving the survival rate of pups, and promoting the development of animal husbandry. Abstract Mammary gland morphology varies considerably between pregnancy and lactation status, e.g., virgin to pregnant and lactation to weaning. Throughout these critical developmental phases, the mammary glands undergo remodeling to accommodate changes in milk production capacity, which is positively correlated with milk protein expression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles in female ICR mice’s mammary glands at the virgin stage (V), day 16 of pregnancy (P16d), day 12 of lactation (L12d), day 1 of forced weaning (FW1d), and day 3 of forced weaning (FW3d), and to identify the miRNAs regulating milk protein gene expression. During the five stages of testing, 852 known miRNAs and 179 novel miRNAs were identified in the mammary glands. Based on their expression patterns, the identified miRNAs were grouped into 12 clusters. The expression pattern of cluster 1 miRNAs was opposite to that of milk protein genes in mammary glands in all five different stages. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses revealed that the predicted target genes of cluster 1 miRNAs were related to murine mammary gland development and lactation. Furthermore, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis revealed that the novel-mmu-miR424-5p, which belongs to the cluster 1 miRNAs, was expressed in murine mammary epithelial cells. The dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that an important milk protein gene—β-casein (CSN2)—was regarded as one of the likely targets for the novel-mmu-miR424-5p. This study analyzed the expression patterns of miRNAs in murine mammary glands throughout five critical developmental stages, and discovered a novel miRNA involved in regulating the expression of CSN2. These findings contribute to an enhanced understanding of the developmental biology of mammary glands, providing guidelines for increasing lactation efficiency and milk quality.
Collapse
|