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Li C, Zhu D, Cao X, Li Y, Hao X. Knockdown of S100A2 inhibits the aggressiveness of endometrial cancer by activating STING pathway. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2024; 44:2361849. [PMID: 38920019 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2024.2361849] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrial cancer is a kind of gynaecological cancer. S100A2 is a newfound biomarker to diagnose endometrial cancer. This study was to investigate the role of S100A2 on regulating migration and invasion of endometrial cancer. METHODS The mRNA and protein levels of S100A2 were obtained by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and western blot methods. Cell viability was measured by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Cell migration and invasion were quantified using transwell assays. Western blot assay was conducted to quantify protein expressions of epithelial to mesenchymal transition-related proteins (N-cadherin and E-cadherin). Furthermore, in vivo tumour formation experiments were performed to evaluate the role of S100A2 on tumour xenografts. RESULTS S100A2 was significantly up-regulated in endometrial cancer tissues. Knockdown of S100A2 inhibited cell viability, migration and invasion of endometrial cancer cells. Meanwhile, STING pathway was activated by the inhibited S100A2. STING inhibitor C-176 significantly reversed the effects of S100A2 knockdown on aggressive behaviours of endometrial cancer cells. Inhibition of S100A2 dramatically suppresses the tumour growth in vivo. CONCLUSIONS S100A2 functions as an oncogene in endometrial cancer. Targeting S100A2 may be a promising therapeutic method to treat endometrial carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Li
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Dandan Zhu
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xun Cao
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ying Li
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Hao
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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Fudulu A, Diaconu CC, Iancu IV, Plesa A, Albulescu A, Bostan M, Socolov DG, Stoian IL, Balan R, Anton G, Botezatu A. Exploring the Role of E6 and E7 Oncoproteins in Cervical Oncogenesis through MBD2/3-NuRD Complex Chromatin Remodeling. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:560. [PMID: 38790189 PMCID: PMC11121560 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050560] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer is among the highest-ranking types of cancer worldwide, with human papillomavirus (HPV) as the agent driving the malignant process. One aspect of the infection's evolution is given by epigenetic modifications, mainly DNA methylation and chromatin alteration. These processes are guided by several chromatin remodeling complexes, including NuRD. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genome-wide binding patterns of the NuRD complex components (MBD2 and MBD3) in the presence of active HPV16 E6 and E7 oncogenes and to determine the potential of identified genes through an experimental model to differentiate between cervical precursor lesions, with the aim of establishing their utility as biomarkers. METHODS The experimental model was built using the CaSki cell line and shRNA for E6 and E7 HPV16 silencing, ChIP-seq, qRT-PCR, and Western blot analyses. Selected genes' expression was also assessed in patients. RESULTS Several genes have been identified to exhibit altered transcriptional activity due to the influence of HPV16 E6/E7 viral oncogenes acting through the MBD2/MBD3 NuRD complex, linking them to viral infection and cervical oncogenesis. CONCLUSIONS The impacted genes primarily play roles in governing gene transcription, mRNA processing, and regulation of translation. Understanding these mechanisms offers valuable insights into the process of HPV-induced oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Fudulu
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Carmen Cristina Diaconu
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Iulia Virginia Iancu
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Adriana Plesa
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Adrian Albulescu
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
- Pharmacology Department, National Institute for Chemical Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 031299 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marinela Bostan
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Demetra Gabriela Socolov
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (D.G.S.); (I.L.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Irina Liviana Stoian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (D.G.S.); (I.L.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Raluca Balan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (D.G.S.); (I.L.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Gabriela Anton
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Anca Botezatu
- Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Romanian Academy, 030304 Bucharest, Romania; (A.F.); (I.V.I.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (M.B.); (G.A.); (A.B.)
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Yang L, Wang M, Wang Y, Zhu Y, Wang J, Wu M, Guo Q, Han X, Pandey V, Wu Z, Lobie PE, Zhu T. LINC00460-FUS-MYC feedback loop drives breast cancer metastasis and doxorubicin resistance. Oncogene 2024; 43:1249-1262. [PMID: 38418543 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-02972-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Therapeutic resistance and metastasis largely contribute to mortality from breast cancer and therefore understanding the underlying mechanisms of such remains an urgent challenge. By cross-analysis of TCGA and GEO databases, LINC00460 was identified as an oncogenic long non-coding RNA, highly expressed in Doxorubicin resistant breast cancer. LINC00460 was further demonstrated to promote stem cell-like and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics in breast cancer cells. LINC00460 interacts with FUS protein with consequent enhanced stabilization, which further promotes MYC mRNA maturation. LINC00460 expression was transcriptionally enhanced by c-MYC protein, forming a positive feedback loop to promote metastasis and Doxorubicin resistance. LINC00460 depletion in Doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cells restored sensitivity to Doxorubicin and increased the efficacy of c-MYC inhibitor therapy. Collectively, these findings implicate LINC00460 as a promising prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target to overcome Doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leiyan Yang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, 230032, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jiarui Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Qianying Guo
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xinghua Han
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Vijay Pandey
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhengsheng Wu
- Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Peter E Lobie
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Nowialis P, Tobon J, Lopusna K, Opavska J, Badar A, Chen D, Abdelghany R, Pozas G, Fingeret J, Noel E, Riva A, Fujiwara H, Opavsky R. Genome-wide methylation profiling of Peripheral T-cell lymphomas identifies TRIP13 as a critical driver of tumor proliferation and survival. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3971059. [PMID: 38464090 PMCID: PMC10925438 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3971059/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Cytosine methylation of genomic DNA contributes to the regulation of gene expression and is involved in normal development including hematopoiesis in mammals. It is catalyzed by the family of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) that include DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B. Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) represent a diverse group of aggressive mature T-cell malignancies accounting for approximately 10-15% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in the US. PTCLs exhibit a broad spectrum of clinical, histological, and immunophenotypic features with poor prognosis and inadequately understood molecular pathobiology. To better understand the molecular landscape and identify candidate genes involved in disease maintenance, we used high-resolution Whole Genome Bisulfite Sequencing (WGBS) and RNA-seq to profile DNA methylation and gene expression of PTCLs and normal T-cells. We found that the methylation patterns in PTCLs are deregulated and heterogeneous but share 767 hypo- and 567 hypermethylated differentially methylated regions (DMRs) along with 231 genes up- and 91 genes downregulated in all samples suggesting a potential association with tumor development. We further identified 39 hypomethylated promoters associated with increased gene expression in the majority of PTCLs. This putative oncogenic signature included the TRIP13 (thyroid hormone receptor interactor 13) gene whose both genetic and pharmacologic inactivation, inhibited cellular growth of PTCL cell lines by inducing G2-M arrest accompanied by apoptosis suggesting that such an approach might be beneficial in human lymphoma treatment. Altogether we show that human PTCLs are characterized by a large number of recurrent methylation alterations, and demonstrated that TRIP13 is critical for PTCL maintenance in vitro .
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Xu M, Li B, Huang J, Jia R, Guo J. The N6-methyladenosine demethylase FTO is required for odontoblast differentiation in vitro and dentine formation in mice by promoting RUNX2 exon 5 inclusion through RBM4. Int Endod J 2023; 56:1534-1549. [PMID: 37698901 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13975] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
AIM Fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) protein, the first discovered N6-methyladenine (m6A) demethylase, played positive roles in bone formation. In this study, the aim was to investigate the function and potential mechanism of Fto in dentine formation. METHODOLOGY In vivo model, postnatal 12-day (PN12), 4-week-old (4 wk), 6-week-old (6 wk) healthy male C57BL/6J were randomly divided into Fto knockout (Fto-/- ) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates according to their genotypes, with 3-5 mice in each group. The mandibles of Fto-/- mice and WT control littermates were isolated for analysis by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), 3-dimensional reconstruction and Haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. In vitro, mouse dental papilla cells (mDPCs) and human dental stem pulp cells (hDPSCs) were cultured with odontogenetic medium to evaluate differentiation capacity; expression levels of odontoblastic related genes were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The inclusion levels of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) exon 5 in mDPCs and hDPSCs were detected by semiquantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The RNA binding motif protein 4 (RBM4) m6A site was verified through m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) and the stability of RBM4 mRNA influenced by FTO knockdown was measured by mRNA stability assay. Differences with p values < .05 were regarded as statistically significant. RESULTS We discovered that Fto-/- mice showed significant dentine formation defects characterized by widened pulp cavity, enlarged pulp-tooth volume ratio, thinned dentine and pre-dentine layer of root (p < .05). Fto-/- mDPCs and FTO-silencing hDPSCs not only exhibited insufficient mineralization ability and decreased expression levels of odontoblastic mineralization related genes (p < .05), but showed significantly reduced Runx2 exon 5 inclusion level (p < .05). FTO knockdown increased the m6A level of RBM4 and destabilized the mRNA of RBM4, thus contributing to the reduced RBM4 expression level. Moreover, Rbm4 overexpression in Fto-/- mDPCs can partly restore Runx2 exon 5 inclusion level and the differentiation ability disrupted by Fto knockout. CONCLUSION Thus, within the limitations of this study, the data suggest that FTO promotes odontoblastic differentiation during dentine formation by stabilizing RBM4 mRNA to promote RUNX2 exon 5 inclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bingrong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Junjun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jihua Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Endodontics, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Wang S, Liu Y, Xiao H, Chen Z, Yang X, Yin J, Li Y, Yuan C, Yan S, Chen G, Gao Q, Kong B, Sun C, Song K. Inhibition of SF3B1 improves the immune microenvironment through pyroptosis and synergizes with αPDL1 in ovarian cancer. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:775. [PMID: 38012150 PMCID: PMC10682409 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06301-1] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is resistant to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) treatment. Combination of targeted therapy and immunotherapy is a promising strategy for ovarian cancer treatment benefit from an improved immune microenvironment. In this study, Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohorts were used to screen prognosis and cytotoxic lymphocyte infiltration-associated genes in upregulated genes of ovarian cancer, tissue microarrays were built for further verification. In vitro experiments and mouse (C57/BL6) ovarian tumor (ID8) models were built to evaluate the synergistic effect of the combination of SF3B1 inhibitor and PD-L1 antibody in the treatment of ovarian cancer. The results show that SF3B1 is shown to be overexpressed and related to low cytotoxic immune cell infiltration in ovarian cancer. Inhibition of SF3B1 induces pyroptosis in ovarian cancer cells and releases mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which is englobed by macrophages and subsequently activates them (polarization to M1). Moreover, pladienolide B increases cytotoxic immune cell infiltration in the ID8 mouse model as a SF3B1 inhibitor and increases the expression of PD-L1 which can enhance the antitumor effect of αPDL1 in ovarian cancer. The data suggests that inhibition of SF3B1 improves the immune microenvironment of ovarian cancer and synergizes ICB immunotherapy, which provides preclinical evidence for the combination of SF3B1 inhibitor and ICB to ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shourong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Huimin Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Zhongshao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiaohang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jingjing Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yingwei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Cunzhong Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Shi Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qinglei Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Beihua Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Chaoyang Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Kun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
- Gynecologic Oncology Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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Choi S, Cho N, Kim EM, Kim KK. The role of alternative pre-mRNA splicing in cancer progression. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:249. [PMID: 37875914 PMCID: PMC10594706 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03094-3] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative pre-mRNA splicing is a critical mechanism that generates multiple mRNA from a single gene, thereby increasing the diversity of the proteome. Recent research has highlighted the significance of specific splicing isoforms in cellular processes, particularly in regulating cell numbers. In this review, we examine the current understanding of the role of alternative splicing in controlling cancer cell growth and discuss specific splicing factors and isoforms and their molecular mechanisms in cancer progression. These isoforms have been found to intricately control signaling pathways crucial for cell cycle progression, proliferation, and apoptosis. Furthermore, studies have elucidated the characteristics and functional importance of splicing factors that influence cell numbers. Abnormal expression of oncogenic splicing isoforms and splicing factors, as well as disruptions in splicing caused by genetic mutations, have been implicated in the development and progression of tumors. Collectively, these findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between alternative splicing and cell proliferation, thereby suggesting the potential of alternative splicing as a therapeutic target for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunkyung Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjoon Cho
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Mi Kim
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kee K Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
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Popli P, Chadchan SB, Dias M, Deng X, Gunderson SJ, Jimenez P, Yalamanchili H, Kommagani R. SF3B1-dependent alternative splicing is critical for maintaining endometrial homeostasis and the establishment of pregnancy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.20.541590. [PMID: 37292891 PMCID: PMC10245700 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.20.541590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable potential of human endometrium to undergo spontaneous remodeling is shaped by controlled spatiotemporal gene expression patterns. Although hormone-driven transcription shown to govern these patterns, the post-transcriptional processing of these mRNA transcripts, including the mRNA splicing in the endometrium is not studied yet. Here, we report that the splicing factor, SF3B1 is central in driving alternative splicing (AS) events that are vital for physiological responses of the endometrium. We show that loss of SF3B1 splicing activity impairs stromal cell decidualization as well as embryo implantation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that SF3B1 depletion decidualizing stromal cells led to differential mRNA splicing. Specifically, a significant upregulation in mutually exclusive AS events (MXEs) with SF3B1 loss resulted in the generation of aberrant transcripts. Further, we found that some of these candidate genes phenocopy SF3B1 function in decidualization. Importantly, we identify progesterone as a potential upstream regulator of SF3B1-mediated functions in endometrium possibly via maintaining its persistently high levels, in coordination with deubiquitinating enzymes. Collectively, our data suggest that SF3B1-driven alternative splicing plays a critical role in mediating the endometrial-specific transcriptional paradigms. Thus, the identification of novel mRNA variants associated with successful pregnancy establishment may help to develop new strategies to diagnose or prevent early pregnancy loss.
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Corr BR, Moroney MR, Woodruff E, Watson ZL, Jordan KR, Danhorn T, Bailey C, Wolsky RJ, Bitler BG. Combination CDC-like kinase inhibition (CLK)/Dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase (DYRK) and taxane therapy in CTNNB1-mutated endometrial cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.04.535570. [PMID: 37066339 PMCID: PMC10104048 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.04.535570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
SM08502 (cirtuvivint) is a novel pan CDC-like kinase (CLK) and Dual specificity tyrosine kinase (DYRK) inhibitor that targets mRNA splicing and is optimized for Wnt pathway inhibition. Previous evaluation of single agent CLK/DYRK inhibition (SM04690) demonstrated inhibition of tumor progression and β-catenin/TCF transcriptional activity in CTNNB1-mutant endometrial cancer (EC). In-vitro analysis of SM08502 similarly decreases Wnt transcriptional activity and cellular proliferation while increasing cellular apoptosis. SM08502 is an active single-agent therapy with IC50's in the nanomolar range for all EC cell lines evaluated. Combination of SM08502 with paclitaxel has synergistic effect in vitro, as demonstrated by Combination Index <1, and inhibits tumor progression in four endometrial cancer models (HEC265, Ishikawa, Ishikawa-S33Y, and SNGM). In our in vivo mouse models, Ishikawa demonstrated significantly lower tumor volumes of combination vs SM08502 alone (Repeated Measures one-way ANOVA, p = 0.04), but not vs paclitaxel alone. HEC265, SNGM, and Ishikawa-S33Y tumors all had significantly lower tumor volumes with combination SM08502 and paclitaxel compared to single-agent paclitaxel (Repeated Measures one-way ANOVA, p = 0.01, 0.004, and 0.0008, respectively) or single-agent SM08502 (Repeated Measures one-way ANOVA, p = 0.002, 0.005, and 0.01, respectively) alone. Mechanistically, treatment with SM08502 increases alternative splicing (AS) events compared to treatment with paclitaxel. AS regulation is an important post-transcriptional mechanism associated with the oncogenic process in many cancers, including EC. Results from these studies have led to a Phase I evaluation of this combination in recurrent EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley R Corr
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Marisa R Moroney
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Elizabeth Woodruff
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Zachary L Watson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kimberly R Jordan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Thomas Danhorn
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Courtney Bailey
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Rebecca J Wolsky
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Benjamin G Bitler
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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10
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Lin Z, Fan W, Sui X, Wang J, Zhao J. Necroptosis-Related LncRNA Signatures for Prognostic Prediction in Uterine Corpora Endometrial Cancer. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:576-589. [PMID: 35854199 PMCID: PMC9988759 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01023-9] [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: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Necroptosis is one of the common modes of apoptosis, and it has an intrinsic association with cancer prognosis. However, the role of the necroptosis-related long non-coding RNA LncRNA (NRLncRNAs) in uterine corpora endometrial cancer (UCEC) has not yet been fully elucidated at present. Therefore, the present study is designed to investigate the potential prognostic value of necroptosis-related LncRNAs in UCEC. In the present study, the expression profiles and clinical data of UCEC patients were downloaded from TCGA database to identify the differentially expressed NRLncRNAs associated with overall survival. A LncRNA risk model was constructed via Cox regression analysis, and its prognostic value was evaluated. We have also further evaluated the relationships between the LncRNA features and the related cellular function, related pathways, immune status, and immune checkpoints m6A-related genes. Seven signatures, including PCAT19, CDKN2B-AS1, LINC01936, LINC02178, BMPR1B-DT, LINC00237, and TRPM2-AS, were established to assess the overall survival (OS) of the UCEC in the present study. Survival analysis and ROC curves indicated that the correlated signature has good predictable performance. The normogram could accurately predict the overall survival of the patients with an excellent clinical practical value. Enrichment analysis of gene sets indicated that risk signals were enriched in several immune-related pathways. In addition, the risk characteristics were significantly correlated with immune cells, immune function, immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, and some m6A-related genes. This study has identified seven necroptosis-related LncRNA signatures for the first time, providing a valuable basis for a more accurate prognostic prediction of UCEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiheng Lin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Weisen Fan
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaohui Sui
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Juntao Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Junde Zhao
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China.
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11
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He L, He W, Luo J, Xu M. Upregulated ENC1 predicts unfavorable prognosis and correlates with immune infiltration in endometrial cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:919637. [PMID: 36531950 PMCID: PMC9751423 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.919637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A better knowledge of the molecular process behind uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is important for prognosis prediction and the development of innovative targeted gene therapies. The purpose of this research is to discover critical genes associated with UCEC. We analyzed the gene expression profiles of TCGA-UCEC and GSE17025, respectively, using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and differential gene expression analysis. From four sets of findings, a total of 95 overlapping genes were retrieved. On the 95 overlapping genes, KEGG pathway and GO enrichment analysis were conducted. Then, we mapped the PPI network of 95 overlapping genes using the STRING database. Twenty hub genes were evaluated using the Cytohubba plugin, including NR3C1, ATF3, KLF15, THRA, NR4A1, FOSB, PER3, HLF, NTRK3, EGR3, MAPK13, ARNTL2, PKM2, SCD, EIF5A, ADHFE1, RERGL, TUB, and ENC1. The expression levels of NR3C1, PKM2, and ENC1 were shown to be adversely linked with the survival time of UCEC patients using univariate Cox regression analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival calculation. ENC1 were also overexpressed in UCEC tumor tissues or cell lines, as shown by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting. Then we looked into it further and discovered that ENC1 expression was linked to tumor microenvironment and predicted various immunological checkpoints. In conclusion, our data indicate that ENC1 may be required for the development of UCEC and may serve as a future biomarker for diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou Hospital-Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Wenjing He
- Department of Endocrinology, Baoji Gaoxin Hospital, Baoji, China
| | - Ji Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou Hospital-Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Minjuan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ganzhou Hospital-Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Ganzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, China
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12
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Zhang J, Chen S, Wei S, Cheng S, Shi R, Zhao R, Zhang W, Zhang Q, Hua T, Feng D, Yu Z, Wang H. CircRAPGEF5 interacts with RBFOX2 to confer ferroptosis resistance by modulating alternative splicing of TFRC in endometrial cancer. Redox Biol 2022; 57:102493. [PMID: 36182807 PMCID: PMC9526237 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecological cancers. Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxide accumulation. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators for cancer development. However, circRNA-mediated modulation of ferroptosis in EC is yet to be clarified. In this study, we found that circRAPGEF5 expression was elevated in EC tissues compared to the normal endometrial tissues. In vitro and in vivo functional analysis demonstrated that circRAPGEF5 facilitates rapid proliferation of EC cells. RNA binding protein fox-1 homolog 2 (RBFOX2), a splicing regulator, was identified as the protein interacts with circRAPGEF5. Further studies revealed that circRAPGEF5 can bind to the Fox-1 C-terminal domain of RBFOX2 and induces specific exon exclusion of TFRC through obstructing the binding of RBFOX2 to pre-mRNA. As a result, elevated levels of circRAPGEF5 lead to ferroptosis resistance via the decreased labile iron pool and attenuated lipid peroxide production in EC cells. Additionally, a series of gain- and loss-of-function experiments demonstrated that knocking down or overexpressing RBFOX2 reversed the effects of knocking down or overexpressing circRAPGEF5 in EC cells. Finally, it is revealed that circRAPGEF5 promote the formation of TFRC with exon-4 skipping and confer ferroptosis resistance in EC cells through the interaction with RBFOX2. Collectively, these findings provide new insight into the molecular mechanism in which circRNAs mediate mediates ferroptosis via modulating alternative splicing, and circRAPGEF5/RBFOX2 splicing axis could be a promising therapeutic target for treating EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Shuaijun Chen
- Department of Pathology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, China
| | - Sitian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Shuangshuang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Rui Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Rong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Teng Hua
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Dilu Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Zhicheng Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
| | - Hongbo Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China; Clinical Research Center of Cancer Immunotherapy, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
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13
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Xu X, Zhang W, Gao H, Tan Y, Guo Y, He T. Polyadenylate-binding protein cytoplasmic 1 mediates alternative splicing events of immune-related genes in gastric cancer cells. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:1907-1916. [PMID: 36112850 PMCID: PMC9742748 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221121631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyadenylate-binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1) is dysregulated in malignancies, which is considered as a potential therapeutic target for many cancer types. By alternative splicing (AS) for gastric cancer (GC), we described PABPC1-modulated AS events in this study. PABPC1 expression was analyzed in 408 GC tissues from The Cancer Genome Altas (TCGA) database. Human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells were transfected with PABPC1-specific small interfering RNA (siPABPC1) with siCtrl as a negative control. Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was done for the determination of transcripts. To detect the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 10 different types of AS events, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed. DEGs were analyzed for functional categories including gene ontology, and the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway were analyzed for DEGs. GC displayed an elevated expression of PABPC1. PABPC1 was efficiently knocked down in AGS cells. Here, we excavated 1234 PABPC1-regulated DEGs, among which 502 were down-regulated and 732 were up-regulated compared to the siCtrl group. A total of 94 DEGs were involved in inflammation and immune response. Results from qRT-PCR validated the up-regulation of 10 immune and inflammation-related DEGs in the siPABPC1 group. PABPC1 deficiency causes 1304 AS events differentially occurred in AGS cells. The most common type of AS events regulated by PABPC2 is alternative 5' splice sites. qRT-PCR confirmed the transcription level of five immune-related genes, in which AS events were detected in the siPABPC1 group. PABPC1 knockdown mediates AS events and thus the transcript level of immune and inflammation-related genes in AGS cells. PABPC1-regulated oncogenic AS events display potential as targets for therapeutic development.
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14
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Chadchan SB, Singh V, Kommagani R. Female reproductive dysfunctions and the gut microbiota. J Mol Endocrinol 2022; 69:R81-R94. [PMID: 35900833 PMCID: PMC10031513 DOI: 10.1530/jme-21-0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The gut microbiome is considered an endocrine organ that can influence distant organs and associated biological pathways. Recent advances suggest that gut microbial homeostasis is essential for reproductive health and that perturbations in the gut microbiota can lead to reproductive pathologies. This review provides an updated overview of the relationship between the gut microbiome and female reproductive diseases. Specifically, we highlight the most recent findings on the gut microbiome in gynecological pathologies including polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and endometrial cancer. Most studies revealed associations between altered gut microbial compositions and these reproductive diseases, though few have suggested cause-effect relationships. Future studies should focus on determining the molecular mechanisms underlying associations between gut microbiota and reproductive diseases. Understanding this bidirectional relationship could lead to the development of novel and effective strategies to prevent, diagnose, and treat female reproductive organ-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangappa B. Chadchan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Vertika Singh
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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15
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SF3B1 facilitates HIF1-signaling and promotes malignancy in pancreatic cancer. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111266. [PMID: 36001976 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111266] [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: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the splicing factor SF3B1 are frequently occurring in various cancers and drive tumor progression through the activation of cryptic splice sites in multiple genes. Recent studies also demonstrate a positive correlation between the expression levels of wild-type SF3B1 and tumor malignancy. Here, we demonstrate that SF3B1 is a hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 target gene that positively regulates HIF1 pathway activity. By physically interacting with HIF1α, SF3B1 facilitates binding of the HIF1 complex to hypoxia response elements (HREs) to activate target gene expression. To further validate the relevance of this mechanism for tumor progression, we show that a reduction in SF3B1 levels via monoallelic deletion of Sf3b1 impedes tumor formation and progression via impaired HIF signaling in a mouse model for pancreatic cancer. Our work uncovers an essential role of SF3B1 in HIF1 signaling, thereby providing a potential explanation for the link between high SF3B1 expression and aggressiveness of solid tumors.
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16
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The splicing factor SF3B4 drives proliferation and invasion in cervical cancer by regulating SPAG5. Cell Death Discov 2022; 8:326. [PMID: 35853859 PMCID: PMC9296558 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of alternative splicing (AS) by the splicing factor 3b (SF3B) family plays an essential role in cancer. However, the biological function of SF3B family members in cervical cancer (CC) needs to be further elucidated. In this study, we found that splicing factor 3b subunit 4 (SF3B4) was highly expressed in CC by bioinformatics analysis using cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Then, we demonstrated that high expression of SF3B4 promoted proliferation and invasion abilities of CC cells in vitro and in vivo and that reduced expression of SF3B4 performed the opposite effect. Further RNA-seq and AS analysis showed that sperm-associated antigen 5 (SPAG5) was a downstream target gene of SF3B4. Interestingly, SPAG5 expression was decreased after SF3B4 knockdown because of retained introns (RIs) and reduced maturation of SPAG5 pre-mRNA. Importantly, SPAG5 deficiency impaired the oncogenic effects of SF3B4 overexpression on CC cells. In conclusion, SF3B4 promotes CC progression by regulating the effective splicing of SPAG5. SF3B4 could be a promising target for CC.
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17
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Novel Endometrial Cancer Models Using Sensitive Metastasis Tracing for CXCR4-Targeted Therapy in Advanced Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071680. [PMID: 35884987 PMCID: PMC9313294 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071680] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced endometrial cancer (EC) lacks therapy, thus, there is a need for novel treatment targets. CXCR4 overexpression is associated with a poor prognosis in several cancers, whereas its inhibition prevents metastases. We assessed CXCR4 expression in EC in women by using IHC. Orthotopic models were generated with transendometrial implantation of CXCR4-transduced EC cells. After in vitro evaluation of the CXCR4-targeted T22-GFP-H6 nanocarrier, subcutaneous EC models were used to study its uptake in tumor and normal organs. Of the women, 91% overexpressed CXCR4, making them candidates for CXCR4-targeted therapies. Thus, we developed CXCR4+ EC mouse models to improve metastagenesis compared to current models and to use them to develop novel CXCR4-targeted therapies for unresponsive EC. It showed enhanced dissemination, especially in the lungs and liver, and displayed 100% metastasis penetrance at all clinically relevant sites with anti-hVimentin IHC, improving detection sensitivity. Regarding the CXCR4-targeted nanocarrier, 60% accumulated in the SC tumor; therefore, selectively targeting CXCR4+ cancer cells, without toxicity in non-tumor organs. Our CXCR4+ EC models will allow testing of novel CXCR4-targeted drugs and development of nanomedicines derived from T22-GFP-H6 to deliver drugs to CXCR4+ cells in advanced EC. This novel approach provides a therapeutic option for women with metastatic, high risk or recurrent EC that have a dismal prognosis and lack effective therapies.
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18
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Sun D, Zhang A, Gao B, Zou L, Huang H, Zhao X, Xu D. Identification of Alternative Splicing-Related Genes CYB561 and FOLH1 in the Tumor-Immune Microenvironment for Endometrial Cancer Based on TCGA Data Analysis. Front Genet 2022; 13:770569. [PMID: 35836577 PMCID: PMC9274141 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.770569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Advanced and recurrent endometrial cancer EC remains controversial. Immunotherapy will play a landmark role in cancer treatment, and alternative splicing (AS) of messenger RNA (mRNA) may offer the potential of a broadened target space.Methods: We downloaded the clinical information and mRNA expression profiles from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Hub genes were extracted from 11 AS-related genes to analyze the correlation between clinical parameters and the tumor-immune microenvironment. We also analyzed the correlations between the copy numbers, gene expressions of hub genes, and immune cells. The correlation between the risk score and the six most important checkpoint genes was also investigated. The ESTIMATE algorithm was finally performed on each EC sample based on the high- and low-risk groups.Results: The risk score was a reliable and stable independent risk predictor in the Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma (UCEC) cohort. CYB561|42921|AP and FOLH1|15817|ES were extracted. The expression of CYB561 and FOLH1 decreased gradually with the increased grade and International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (p < 0.05). Gene copy number changes in CYB561 and FOLH1 led to the deletion number of myeloid DC cells and T cell CD8+. Low expression of both CYB561 and FOLH1 was associated with poor prognosis (p < 0.001). The checkpoint genes, CTLA-4 and PDCD1, exhibited a negative correlation with the risk score of AS in UCEC.Conclusion: AS-related gene signatures were related to the immune-tumor microenvironment and prognosis. These outcomes were significant for studying EC’s immune-related mechanisms and exploring novel prognostic predictors and precise therapy methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Dabao Xu
- *Correspondence: Xingping Zhao, ; Dabao Xu,
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19
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Li F, Zhao C, Diao Y, Wang Z, Peng J, Yang N, Qiu C, Kong B, Li Y. MEX3A promotes the malignant progression of ovarian cancer by regulating intron retention in TIMELESS. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:553. [PMID: 35715407 PMCID: PMC9205863 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05000-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The latest research shows that RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) could serve as novel potential targets for cancer therapy. We used bioinformatics analysis to screen and identify the key RBPs in ovarian cancer, from which we found that Mex-3 RNA Binding Family Member A (MEX3A) was intimately associated with the clinical prognosis of ovarian cancer. Nevertheless, little is known about its biological roles in ovarian cancer. In this case, we observed that MEX3A was highly overexpressed in fresh-frozen ovarian cancer tissues. MEX3A knockdown suppressed the development and invasion of ovarian cancer cells, while MEX3A overexpression promoted the proliferation and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, TIMELESS was the critical downstream target gene of MEX3A, as demonstrated through alternative splicing event analysis based on RNA-seq. MEX3A knockdown resulted in retention of intron twenty-three of TIMELESS mRNA and decreased TIMELESS mRNA owing to stimulation of nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD). Additionally, we found that TIMELESS overexpression with MEX3A knockdown partially restored the proliferation ability of ovarian cancer cells. The results of this paper demonstrated that the MEX3A/TIMELESS signaling pathway was a key regulator of ovarian cancer, and MEX3A was a novel possible treatment target for ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Li
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.452240.50000 0004 8342 6962Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256600 Shangdong China
| | - Chen Zhao
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Yuchao Diao
- grid.412521.10000 0004 1769 1119Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 Shangdong China
| | - Zixiang Wang
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Jiali Peng
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Ning Yang
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Chunping Qiu
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Beihua Kong
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Yingwei Li
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
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20
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Gao C, Wang SW, Lu JC, Chai XQ, Li YC, Zhang PF, Huang XY, Cai JB, Zheng YM, Guo XJ, Shi GM, Ke AW, Fan J. KSR2-14-3-3ζ complex serves as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomark Res 2022; 10:25. [PMID: 35468812 PMCID: PMC9036720 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00361-9] [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: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Kinase suppressor of Ras 2 (KSR2) is a regulator of MAPK signaling that is overactivated in most hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We sought to determine the role of KSR2 in HCC pathogenesis. Methods We tested the level of KSR2 in HCC tissues and cell lines by tissue microarray, qPCR, and western blotting. Functionally, we determined the effects of KSR2 on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells through colony formation assays, scratch assays, transwell migration assays, and xenograft tumor models. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments were used to assess the interaction of phospho-serine binding protein 14–3-3ζ and KSR2, and the effects of this interaction on growth and proliferation of human HCC cells were tested by co-overexpression and knockdown experiments. Additionally, we used flow cytometry to examine whether the KSR2 and 14–3-3ζ interaction conveys HCC resistance to sorafenib. Results KSR2 was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines, and high KSR2 expression associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. KSR2 knockdown significantly suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, co-IP experiments identified that 14–3-3ζ complexed with KSR2, and elevated 14–3-3ζ increased KSR2 protein levels in HCC cells. Importantly, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that patients with both high KSR2 and high 14–3-3ζ expression levels had the shortest survival times and poorest prognoses. Interestingly, HCC cells overexpressing both KSR2 and 14–3-3ζ, rather than either protein alone, showed hyperactivated MAPK signaling and resistance to sorafenib. Conclusions Our results provide new insights into the pro-tumorigenic role of KSR2 and its regulation of the MAPK pathway in HCC. The KSR2–14–3-3ζ interaction may be a therapeutic target to enhance the sorafenib sensitivity of HCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40364-022-00361-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Cheng Lu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Chai
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan-Cheng Li
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng-Fei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Bin Cai
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Min Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Ming Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ai-Wu Ke
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jia Fan
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Department of Liver Surgery, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan Hospital, Liver Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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21
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MicroRNA-146a promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of HepG2 via regulating FLAP. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:149. [PMID: 35410355 PMCID: PMC8996575 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02568-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal expression of 5-Lipoxygenase Activating Protein (FLAP) has been detected in many tumor cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) negatively regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to the 3'–untranslated region (3'–UTR) of the target mRNA sequences and have been shown to be involved in various types of cancers. Herein, we aimed to demonstrate the expression of miR-146a and FLAP in human HCC tissues and liver cancer cell lines. We demonstrated that miR-146a expression is overexpressed, while FLAP protein and mRNA are suppressed in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues and HepG2 cells compared to para-carcinoma tissues and HL–7702 cells. Dual luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-146a-5p can directly target FLAP mRNA. Knockdown of miR-146a also resulted in increased FLAP expression of cancer cells. Additionally, miR-146a silencing or restoration of FLAP led to a reduction of HepG2 cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion. This study showed that miR-146a has a stimulatory role in HepG2 cells and promotes HepG2 cell migration and invasion by targeting FLAP mRNA. Thus, miR-146a may be a tumor promoter and a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC patients.
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22
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Kumar D, Kashyap MK, Yu Z, Spaanderman I, Villa R, Kipps TJ, La Clair JJ, Burkart MD, Castro JE. Modulation of RNA splicing associated with Wnt signaling pathway using FD-895 and pladienolide B. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:2081-2100. [PMID: 35230971 PMCID: PMC8954975 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in RNA splicing are associated with different malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and solid tumors. The RNA splicing modulators such as FD-895 and pladienolide B have been investigated in different malignancies to target/modulate spliceosome for therapeutic purpose. Different cell lines were screened using an RNA splicing modulator to test in vitro cytotoxicity and the ability to modulate RNA splicing capability via induction of intron retention (using RT-PCR and qPCR). The Cignal Finder Reporter Array evaluated [pathways affected by the splice modulators in HeLa cells. Further, the candidates associated with the pathways were validated at protein level using western blot assay, and gene-gene interaction studies were carried out using GeneMANIA. We show that FD-895 and pladienolide B induces higher apoptosis levels than conventional chemotherapy in different solid tumors. In addition, both agents modulate Wnt signaling pathways and mRNA splicing. Specifically, FD-895 and pladienolide B significantly downregulates Wnt signaling pathway-associated transcripts (GSK3β and LRP5) and both transcript and proteins including LEF1, CCND1, LRP6, and pLRP6 at the transcript, total protein, and protein phosphorylation's levels. These results indicate FD-895 and pladienolide B inhibit Wnt signaling by decreasing LRP6 phosphorylation and modulating mRNA splicing through induction of intron retention in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kumar
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- ThermoFisher Scientific, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Manoj K. Kashyap
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Amity Stem Cell Institute, Amity Medical School, Amity University Haryana, Panchgaon (Manesar), Haryana 122413, India
| | - Zhe Yu
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ide Spaanderman
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Reymundo Villa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Thomas J. Kipps
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- CLL Research Consortium and Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - James J. La Clair
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael D. Burkart
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Januario E. Castro
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- CLL Research Consortium and Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA
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23
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SF3B4 promotes ovarian cancer progression by regulating alternative splicing of RAD52. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:179. [PMID: 35210412 PMCID: PMC8873359 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04630-1] [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] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have proven that splicing factors are crucial for human malignant tumor development. However, as a classical splicing factor, the expression of SF3B4 is not clear, and its biological function needs to be further clarified in ovarian cancer (OC). We determined that SF3B4 was obviously upregulated and its high expression was associated with poor prognosis in OC patients. In vitro and in vivo assays suggested that SF3B4 overexpression promoted OC cell proliferation and mobility, and downregulation of SF3B4 had the opposite effect. Further studies found that miR-509–3p decreased SF3B4 mRNA expression by binding to the 3’ -UTR of SF3B4 directly. Importantly, we revealed that RAD52 was a potential target of SF3B4 through alternative splicing events analysis. Loss of SF3B4 led to decreased expression of RAD52, owing to intron 8 retention and generation of premature termination codons. Moreover, decreased expression of RAD52 partially counteracted the tumor-promoting effect of SF3B4 overexpression. In conclusion, our results suggested that SF3B4, negatively regulated by miR-509–3p, promoted OC progression through effective splicing of RAD52. Therefore, SF3B4 may be a promising biomarker and effective therapeutic target for OC.
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24
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Sun S, Gao T, Pang B, Su X, Guo C, Zhang R, Pang Q. RNA binding protein NKAP protects glioblastoma cells from ferroptosis by promoting SLC7A11 mRNA splicing in an m 6A-dependent manner. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:73. [PMID: 35064112 PMCID: PMC8783023 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04524-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a form of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation. Previous studies have reported that knockout of NF-κB activating protein (NKAP), an RNA-binding protein, increased lipid peroxidation level in naive T cells and induced cell death in colon cancer cells. However, there was no literature reported the relationship between NKAP and ferroptosis in glioblastoma cells. Notably, the mechanism of NKAP modulating ferroptosis is still unknown. Here, we found NKAP knockdown induced cell death in glioblastoma cells. Silencing NKAP increased the cell sensitivity to ferroptosis inducers both in vitro and in vivo. Exogenous overexpression of NKAP promoted cell resistance to ferroptosis inducers by positively regulating a ferroptosis defense protein, namely cystine/glutamate antiporter (SLC7A11). The regulation of SLC7A11 by NKAP can be weakened by the m6A methylation inhibitor cycloleucine and knockdown of the m6A writer METTL3. NKAP combined the “RGAC” motif which was exactly in line with the m6A motif “RGACH” (R = A/G, H = A/U/C) uncovered by the m6A-sequence. RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) and Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) proved the interaction between NKAP and m6A on SLC7A11 transcript. Following its binding to m6A, NKAP recruited the splicing factor proline and glutamine-rich (SFPQ) to recognize the splice site and then conducted transcription termination site (TTS) splicing event on SLC7A11 transcript and the retention of the last exon, screened by RNA-sequence and Mass Spectrometry (MS). In conclusion, NKAP acted as a new ferroptosis suppressor by binding to m6A and then promoting SLC7A11 mRNA splicing and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicheng Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Taihong Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangsheng Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Changfa Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Qi Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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25
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Zhao C, Li Y, Qiu C, Chen J, Wu H, Wang Q, Ma X, Song K, Kong B. Splicing Factor DDX23, Transcriptionally Activated by E2F1, Promotes Ovarian Cancer Progression by Regulating FOXM1. Front Oncol 2021; 11:749144. [PMID: 34966670 PMCID: PMC8710544 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.749144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian carcinoma remains the most lethal gynecological carcinoma. Abnormal expression of splicing factors is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. The DEAD-box RNA helicases are important members of the splicing factor family. However, their role in the occurrence and progression of ovarian cancer is still unclear. In this study, we identified DEAD-box helicase 23 (DDX23) as a key DEAD-box RNA helicase in ovarian cancer using bioinformatics methods. We determined that DDX23 was upregulated in ovarian cancer and its high expression predicted poor prognosis. Functional assays indicated that DDX23 silencing significantly impeded cell proliferation/invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, transcriptomic analysis showed that DDX23 was involved in mRNA processing in ovarian cancer cells. Specifically, DDX23 regulated the mRNA processing of FOXM1. DDX23 silencing reduced the production of FOXM1C, the major oncogenic transcript of FOXM1 in ovarian cancer, thereby decreasing the FOXM1 protein expression and attenuating the malignant progression of ovarian cancer. Rescue assays indicated that FOXM1 was a key executor in DDX23-induced malignant phenotype of ovarian cancer. Furthermore, we confirmed that DDX23 was transcriptionally activated by the transcription factor (TF) E2F1 in ovarian cancer using luciferase reporter assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that high DDX23 expression is involved in malignant behavior of ovarian cancer and DDX23 may become a potential target for precision therapy of ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingwei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunping Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qiuman Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinyue Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Kun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Beihua Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Gynecology Oncology Key Laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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26
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Alors-Perez E, Blázquez-Encinas R, Alcalá S, Viyuela-García C, Pedraza-Arevalo S, Herrero-Aguayo V, Jiménez-Vacas JM, Mafficini A, Sánchez-Frías ME, Cano MT, Abollo-Jiménez F, Marín-Sanz JA, Cabezas-Sainz P, Lawlor RT, Luchini C, Sánchez L, Sánchez-Hidalgo JM, Ventura S, Martin-Hijano L, Gahete MD, Scarpa A, Arjona-Sánchez Á, Ibáñez-Costa A, Sainz B, Luque RM, Castaño JP. Dysregulated splicing factor SF3B1 unveils a dual therapeutic vulnerability to target pancreatic cancer cells and cancer stem cells with an anti-splicing drug. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:382. [PMID: 34857016 PMCID: PMC8638119 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02153-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer, requiring novel treatments to target both cancer cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs). Altered splicing is emerging as both a novel cancer hallmark and an attractive therapeutic target. The core splicing factor SF3B1 is heavily altered in cancer and can be inhibited by Pladienolide-B, but its actionability in PDAC is unknown. We explored the presence and role of SF3B1 in PDAC and interrogated its potential as an actionable target. Methods SF3B1 was analyzed in PDAC tissues, an RNA-seq dataset, and publicly available databases, examining associations with splicing alterations and key features/genes. Functional assays in PDAC cell lines and PDX-derived CSCs served to test Pladienolide-B treatment effects in vitro, and in vivo in zebrafish and mice. Results SF3B1 was overexpressed in human PDAC and associated with tumor grade and lymph-node involvement. SF3B1 levels closely associated with distinct splicing event profiles and expression of key PDAC players (KRAS, TP53). In PDAC cells, Pladienolide-B increased apoptosis and decreased multiple tumor-related features, including cell proliferation, migration, and colony/sphere formation, altering AKT and JNK signaling, and favoring proapoptotic splicing variants (BCL-XS/BCL-XL, KRASa/KRAS, Δ133TP53/TP53). Importantly, Pladienolide-B similarly impaired CSCs, reducing their stemness capacity and increasing their sensitivity to chemotherapy. Pladienolide-B also reduced PDAC/CSCs xenograft tumor growth in vivo in zebrafish and in mice. Conclusion SF3B1 overexpression represents a therapeutic vulnerability in PDAC, as altered splicing can be targeted with Pladienolide-B both in cancer cells and CSCs, paving the way for novel therapies for this lethal cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02153-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Alors-Perez
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ricardo Blázquez-Encinas
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sonia Alcalá
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Cancer Biology, Chronic Diseases and Cancer Area 3-Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Viyuela-García
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,Surgery Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sergio Pedraza-Arevalo
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Vicente Herrero-Aguayo
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan M Jiménez-Vacas
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Andrea Mafficini
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marina E Sánchez-Frías
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,Pathology Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - María T Cano
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,Medical Oncology Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fernando Abollo-Jiménez
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Computer Sciences, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan A Marín-Sanz
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Computer Sciences, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Pablo Cabezas-Sainz
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Rita T Lawlor
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Luchini
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Sánchez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Juan M Sánchez-Hidalgo
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,Surgery Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Sebastián Ventura
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Computer Sciences, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Laura Martin-Hijano
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Cancer Biology, Chronic Diseases and Cancer Area 3-Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel D Gahete
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Álvaro Arjona-Sánchez
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,Surgery Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Alejandro Ibáñez-Costa
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Raúl M Luque
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain. .,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain. .,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain. .,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Justo P Castaño
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain. .,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain. .,Reina Sofia University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain. .,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn), Avenida Menéndez Pidal s/n, Edificio IMIBIC, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
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27
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Ye P, Yang Y, Zhang L, Zheng G. Prognostic Signatures of Alternative Splicing Events in Esophageal Carcinoma Based on TCGA Splice-Seq Data. Front Oncol 2021; 11:658262. [PMID: 34676158 PMCID: PMC8524056 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.658262] [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: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
An alternative splicing (AS) event is a highly complex process that plays an essential role in post-transcriptional gene expression. Several studies have suggested that abnormal AS events were the primary element in the pathological process of cancer. However, few works are dedicated to the study of AS events in esophageal carcinoma (EC). In the present study, clinical information and RNA-seq data of EC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The percent spliced in (PSI) values of AS events were acquired from the TCGA Splice-seq. A total of 183 EC patients were enrolled in this study, and 2,212 AS events were found significantly associated with the overall survival of these patients by univariate Cox regression analysis. The prognostic signatures based on AS events were built by multivariate Cox analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves displayed that the area under the curve (AUC) of the following prognostic signatures, including exon skip (ES), alternate terminator (AT), alternate acceptor site (AA), alternate promoter (AP), alternate donor site (AD), retained intron (RI), and total events, was greater than 0.8, suggesting that these seven signatures had valuable prognosis prediction capacity. Finally, the risk score of prognostic signatures was indicated as an independent risk factor of survival. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to explore the function of splicing factors (SFs) that were associated with AS events. Also, the interactive network between AS events and SFs identified several hub genes and AS events which need further study. This was a comprehensive study that explored prognosis-related AS events and established valuable prognosis signatures in EC patients. The network of interactions between AS events and SFs might offer novel insights into the fundamental mechanisms of tumorigenesis and progression of EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ye
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Yang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Liqiang Zhang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Guixi Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Liu X, Liu C, Liu J, Song Y, Wang S, Wu M, Yu S, Cai L. Identification of Tumor Microenvironment-Related Alternative Splicing Events to Predict the Prognosis of Endometrial Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:645912. [PMID: 33996564 PMCID: PMC8116885 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.645912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common female malignant tumors. The immunity is believed to be associated with EC patients’ survival, and growing studies have shown that aberrant alternative splicing (AS) might contribute to the progression of cancers. Methods We downloaded the clinical information and mRNA expression profiles of 542 tumor tissues and 23 normal tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. ESTIMATE algorithm was carried out on each EC sample, and the OS-related different expressed AS (DEAS) events were identified by comparing the high and low stromal/immune scores groups. Next, we constructed a risk score model to predict the prognosis of EC patients. Finally, we used unsupervised cluster analysis to compare the relationship between prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment. Results The prognostic risk score model was constructed based on 16 OS-related DEAS events finally identified, and then we found that compared with high-risk group the OS in the low-risk group was notably better. Furthermore, according to the results of unsupervised cluster analysis, we found that the better the prognosis, the higher the patient’s ESTIMATE score and the higher the infiltration of immune cells. Conclusions We used bioinformatics to construct a gene signature to predict the prognosis of patients with EC. The gene signature was combined with tumor microenvironment (TME) and AS events, which allowed a deeper understanding of the immune status of EC patients, and also provided new insights for clinical patients with EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Ying Song
- Department of Gynecology, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Miaoqing Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Jinhua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Shanshan Yu
- Department of Chemoradiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Luya Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Chen S, Yang C, Wang ZW, Hu JF, Pan JJ, Liao CY, Zhang JQ, Chen JZ, Huang Y, Huang L, Zhan Q, Tian YF, Shen BY, Wang YD. CLK1/SRSF5 pathway induces aberrant exon skipping of METTL14 and Cyclin L2 and promotes growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:60. [PMID: 33849617 PMCID: PMC8045197 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01072-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Both aberrant alternative splicing and m6A methylation play complicated roles in the development of pancreatic cancer (PC), while the relationship between these two RNA modifications remains unclear. Methods RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed using 15 pairs of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tissues and corresponding normal tissues, and Cdc2-like kinases 1 (CLK1) was identified as a significantly upregulated alternative splicing related gene. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blotting were applied to determine the CLK1 levels. The prognostic value of CLK1 was elucidated by Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses in two independent PDAC cohorts. The functional characterizations and mechanistic insights of CLK1 in PDAC growth and metastasis were evaluated with PDAC cell lines and nude mice. SR-like splicing factors5250-Ser (SRSF5250-Ser) was identified as an important target phosphorylation site by phosphorylation mass spectrometry. Through transcriptome sequencing, Methyltransferase-like 14exon10 (METTL14exon10) and Cyclin L2exon6.3 skipping were identified as key alternative splicing events regulated by the CLK1-SRSF5 axis. RIP assays, RNA-pulldown and CLIP-qPCR were performed to confirm molecular interactions and the precise binding sites. The roles of the shift of METTL14exon 10 and Cyclin L2exon6.3 skipping were surveyed. Results CLK1 expression was significantly increased in PDAC tissues at both the mRNA and protein levels. High CLK1 expression was associated with poor prognosis. Elevated CLK1 expression promoted growth and metastasis of PC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, CLK1 enhanced phosphorylation on SRSF5250-Ser, which inhibited METTL14exon10 skipping while promoted Cyclin L2exon6.3 skipping. In addition, aberrant METTL14exon 10 skipping enhanced the N6-methyladenosine modification level and metastasis, while aberrant Cyclin L2exon6.3 promoted proliferation of PDAC cells. Conclusions The CLK1/SRSF5 pathway induces aberrant exon skipping of METTL14 and Cyclin L2, which promotes growth and metastasis and regulates m6A methylation of PDAC cells. This study suggests the potential prognostic value and therapeutic targeting of this pathway in PDAC patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13045-021-01072-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Chen
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Can Yang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zu-Wei Wang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Fei Hu
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Jing Pan
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Yu Liao
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Qiang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.197 Ruijin Second Road, Shanghai, 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Zhi Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Huang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.,Center for Experimental Research in Clinical Medicine, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Huang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.197 Ruijin Second Road, Shanghai, 200025, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Feng Tian
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Bai-Yong Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.197 Ruijin Second Road, Shanghai, 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yao-Dong Wang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Medical University, No. 134, East Street, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.
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