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Huang J, Yin Q, Wang Y, Zhou X, Guo Y, Tang Y, Cheng R, Yu X, Zhang J, Huang C, Huang Z, Zhang J, Guo Z, Huo X, Sun Y, Li Y, Wang H, Yang J, Xue L. EZH2 Inhibition Enhances PD-L1 Protein Stability Through USP22-Mediated Deubiquitination in Colorectal Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308045. [PMID: 38520088 PMCID: PMC11187912 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308045] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The regulation of PD-L1 is the key question, which largely determines the outcome of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based therapy. However, besides the transcription level, the protein stability of PD-L1 is closely correlated with its function and has drawn increasing attention. In this study, EZH2 inhibition enhances PD-L1 expression and protein stability, and the deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific peptidase 22 (USP22) is identified as a key mediator in this process. EZH2 inhibition transcriptionally upregulates USP22 expression, and upregulated USP22 further stabilizes PD-L1. Importantly, a combination of EZH2 inhibitors with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy improves the tumor microenvironment, enhances sensitivity to immunotherapy, and exerts synergistic anticancer effects. In addition, knocking down USP22 can potentially enhance the therapeutic efficacy of EZH2 inhibitors on colon cancer. These findings unveil the novel role of EZH2 inhibitors in tumor immune evasion by upregulating PD-L1, and this drawback can be compensated by combining ICI immunotherapy. Therefore, these findings provide valuable insights into the EZH2-USP22-PD-L1 regulatory axis, shedding light on the optimization of combining both immune checkpoint blockade and EZH2 inhibitor-based epigenetic therapies to achieve more efficacies and accuracy in cancer treatment.
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Wu C, Li L, Tang Q, Liao Q, Chen P, Guo C, Zeng Z, Xiong W. Role of m 6A modifications in immune evasion and immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:159. [PMID: 38761335 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02402-9] [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: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
RNA modification has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its pivotal role in tumorigenesis and immune surveillance. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent RNA modification, which can affect the expression of RNA by methylating adenylate at the sixth N position to regulate the occurrence and development of tumors. Dysregulation of m6A affects the activation of cancer-promoting pathways, destroys immune cell function, maintains immunosuppressive microenvironment, and promotes tumor cell growth. In this review, we delve into the latest insights into how abnormalities in m6A modification in both tumor and immune cells orchestrate immune evasion through the activation of signaling pathways. Furthermore, we explore how dysregulated m6A modification in tumor cells influences immune cells, thereby regulating tumor immune evasion via interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Lastly, we highlight recent discoveries regarding specific inhibitors of m6A modulators and the encapsulation of m6A-targeting nanomaterials for cancer therapy, discussing their potential applications in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lvyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Can Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Wang R, He S, Long J, Wang Y, Jiang X, Chen M, Wang J. Emerging therapeutic frontiers in cancer: insights into posttranslational modifications of PD-1/PD-L1 and regulatory pathways. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:46. [PMID: 38654302 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00515-5] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The interaction between programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is expressed on the surface of tumor cells, and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1), which is expressed on T cells, impedes the effective activation of tumor antigen-specific T cells, resulting in the evasion of tumor cells from immune-mediated killing. Blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway has been shown to be effective in preventing tumor immune evasion. PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies have garnered significant attention in recent years within the field of tumor treatments, given the aforementioned mechanism. Furthermore, clinical research has substantiated the efficacy and safety of this immunotherapy across various tumors, offering renewed optimism for patients. However, challenges persist in anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies, marked by limited indications and the emergence of drug resistance. Consequently, identifying additional regulatory pathways and molecules associated with PD-1/PD-L1 and implementing judicious combined treatments are imperative for addressing the intricacies of tumor immune mechanisms. This review briefly outlines the structure of the PD-1/PD-L1 molecule, emphasizing the posttranslational modification regulatory mechanisms and related targets. Additionally, a comprehensive overview on the clinical research landscape concerning PD-1/PD-L1 post-translational modifications combined with PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies to enhance outcomes for a broader spectrum of patients is presented based on foundational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology, The School of Basic Medical Sciences & Diagnostic Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shiwei He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jun Long
- Shenzhen Geim Graphene Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute & Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yian Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xianjie Jiang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mingfen Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology, The School of Basic Medical Sciences & Diagnostic Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China.
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Kim SB, Hwang S, Cha JY, Lee HJ. Programmed Death Ligand 1 Regulatory Crosstalk with Ubiquitination and Deubiquitination: Implications in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2939. [PMID: 38474186 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052939] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays a pivotal role in cancer immune evasion and is a critical target for cancer immunotherapy. This review focuses on the regulation of PD-L1 through the dynamic processes of ubiquitination and deubiquitination, which are crucial for its stability and function. Here, we explored the intricate mechanisms involving various E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that modulate PD-L1 expression in cancer cells. Specific ligases are discussed in detail, highlighting their roles in tagging PD-L1 for degradation. Furthermore, we discuss the actions of DUBs that stabilize PD-L1 by removing ubiquitin chains. The interplay of these enzymes not only dictates PD-L1 levels but also influences cancer progression and patient response to immunotherapies. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting these regulatory pathways and propose novel strategies to enhance the efficacy of PD-L1/PD-1-based therapies. Our review underscores the complexity of PD-L1 regulation and its significant impact on the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Bin Kim
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Soonjae Hwang
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Young Cha
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Jae Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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Zhang Z, Gao Z, Fang H, Zhao Y, Xing R. Therapeutic importance and diagnostic function of circRNAs in urological cancers: from metastasis to drug resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-023-10152-9. [PMID: 38252399 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10152-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a member of non-coding RNAs with no ability in encoding proteins and their aberrant dysregulation is observed in cancers. Their closed-loop structure has increased their stability, and they are reliable biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. Urological cancers have been responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide, and developing new strategies in their treatment, especially based on gene therapy, is of importance since these malignant diseases do not respond to conventional therapies. In the current review, three important aims are followed. At the first step, the role of circRNAs in increasing or decreasing the progression of urological cancers is discussed, and the double-edged sword function of them is also highlighted. At the second step, the interaction of circRNAs with molecular targets responsible for urological cancer progression is discussed, and their impact on molecular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, EMT, and MMPs is highlighted. Finally, the use of circRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of urological cancer patients is discussed to translate current findings in the clinic for better treatment of patients. Furthermore, since circRNAs can be transferred to tumor via exosomes and the interactions in tumor microenvironment provided by exosomes such as between macrophages and cancer cells is of importance in cancer progression, a separate section has been devoted to the role of exosomal circRNAs in urological tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengde Medical College, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China.
| | - Zhixu Gao
- Chengde Medical College, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Huimin Fang
- Chengde Medical College, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Yutang Zhao
- Chengde Medical College, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Rong Xing
- Chengde Medical College, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
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