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Han S, Chen S, Wang J, Huang S, Xiao Y, Deng G. Erianin promotes apoptosis and inhibits Akt-mediated aerobic glycolysis of cancer cells. J Cancer 2024; 15:2380-2390. [PMID: 38495480 PMCID: PMC10937289 DOI: 10.7150/jca.92780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Highly activated aerobic glycolysis provides the metabolic requirements for tumor cell growth and proliferation. Erianin, a natural product isolated from Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl, has been reported to exert antitumor activity in multiple cancers. However, whether Erianin exerts inhibitory effects on aerobic glycolysis and the inherent mechanism remain poorly defined in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we showed that Erianin inhibited the cell viability and proliferation, and induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells. Moreover, Erianin overtly suppressed aerobic glycolysis via decreasing HK2 expression. Mechanistically, Erianin dose-dependently curbed the Akt-GSK3β signaling pathway phosphorylation activation, which afterwards downregulated HK2 expression. Meanwhile, Erianin inhibited HCC827 tumor growth in vivo. Taken together, our results suggest that the natural product Erianin can suppress aerobic glycolysis and exert potent anticancer effects via the Akt-GSK3β signaling pathway in NSCLC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangze Han
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Sijin Chen
- Department of Urology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Jidong Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), Changde 415000, Hunan, China
| | - Sheng Huang
- Department of General, Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Yeqing Xiao
- Department of Ultrasonography, Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Gaoyan Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
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2
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Huang G, Hucek D, Cierpicki T, Grembecka J. Applications of oxetanes in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115802. [PMID: 37713805 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115802] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
The compact and versatile oxetane motifs have gained significant attention in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry campaigns. This review presents an overview of the diverse applications of oxetanes in clinical and preclinical drug candidates targeting various human diseases, including cancer, viral infections, autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, metabolic disorders, and others. Special attention is given to biologically active oxetane-containing compounds and their disease-related targets, such as kinases, epigenetic and non-epigenetic enzymes, and receptors. The review also details the effect of the oxetane motif on important properties, including aqueous solubility, lipophilicity, pKa, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux, metabolic stability, conformational preferences, toxicity profiles (e.g., cytochrome P450 (CYP) suppression and human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) inhibition), pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, potency, and target selectivity. We anticipate that this work will provide valuable insights that can drive future discoveries of novel bioactive oxetane-containing small molecules, enabling their effective application in combating a wide range of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Huang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Devon Hucek
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Tomasz Cierpicki
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jolanta Grembecka
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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3
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Chen ZG, Shi X, Zhang XX, Yang FF, Li KR, Fang Q, Cao C, Chen XH, Peng Y. Neuron-secreted NLGN3 ameliorates ischemic brain injury via activating Gαi1/3-Akt signaling. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:700. [PMID: 37880221 PMCID: PMC10600254 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06219-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
We here tested the potential activity and the underlying mechanisms of neuroligin-3 (NLGN3) against ischemia-reperfusion-induced neuronal cell injury. In SH-SY5Y neuronal cells and primary murine cortical neurons, NLGN3 activated Akt-mTOR and Erk signalings, and inhibited oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD)/re-oxygenation (OGD/R)-induced cytotoxicity. Akt activation was required for NLGN3-induced neuroprotection. Gαi1/3 mediated NLGN3-induced downstream signaling activation. NLGN3-induced Akt-S6K1 activation was largely inhibited by Gαi1/3 silencing or knockout. Significantly, NLGN3-induced neuroprotection against OGD/R was almost abolished by Gαi1/3 silencing or knockout. In vivo, the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) procedure induced NLGN3 cleavage and secretion, and increased its expression and Akt activation in mouse brain tissues. ADAM10 (A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 10) inhibition blocked MCAO-induced NLGN3 cleavage and secretion, exacerbating ischemic brain injury in mice. Neuronal silencing of NLGN3 or Gαi1/3 in mice also inhibited Akt activation and intensified MCAO-induced ischemic brain injury. Conversely, neuronal overexpression of NLGN3 increased Akt activation and alleviated MCAO-induced ischemic brain injury. Together, NLGN3 activates Gαi1/3-Akt signaling to protect neuronal cells from ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Guo Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xin Shi
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xian-Xian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital 6 of Nantong University, Yancheng Third People's Hospital, Yancheng, China
| | - Fang-Fang Yang
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ke-Ran Li
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qi Fang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Cong Cao
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Xiong-Hui Chen
- Department of Emergency Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Ya Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
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4
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Xia Y, He C, Hu Z, Wu Z, Hui Y, Liu YY, Mu C, Zha J. The mitochondrial protein YME1 Like 1 is important for non-small cell lung cancer cell growth. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:1778-1790. [PMID: 37063426 PMCID: PMC10092760 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression and biological function of the mitochondrial inner membrane protease YME1L (YME1 Like 1 ATPase) in NSCLC are tested here. Bioinformatical analyses and results from local human tissues show that YME1L expression is elevated in NSCLC tissues. YME1L upregulation was observed in primary and immortalized NSCLC cells. In NSCLC cells, shRNA-mediated silence of YME1L or dCas9/sgRNA-induced knockout (KO) of YME1L robustly suppressed cell growth and migration, and provoking apoptosis. YME1L shRNA/KO resulted in mitochondrial dysfunctions in NSCLC cells, leading to mitochondrial depolarization, ROS accumulation and ATP depletion. Conversely, ectopic YME1L overexpression augmented NSCLC cell proliferation and motility. Akt-S6K1 phosphorylation was reduced after YME1L shRNA/KO in primary NSCLC cells, but augmented after YME1L overexpression. Importantly, YME1L KO-caused anti-NSCLC cell activity was attenuated by a constitutively-activate Akt1 (S473D) construct. In vivo, subcutaneous NSCLC xenograft growth was remarkably slowed following intratumoral YME1L shRNA AAV injection in nude mice. YME1L knockdown, Akt-mTOR inactivation and ATP reduction were detected in YME1L-silenced NSCLC xenografts. Taken together, overexpressed YME1L in NSCLC exerts pro-tumorigenic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchen Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chunyan He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Kunshan, China
| | - Zhi Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhichao Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Yin Hui
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoyang University, Shaoyang, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Central Hospital of Shaoyang, Shaoyang, China
| | - Yuan-yuan Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Chuanyong Mu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Zha
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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5
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Yang YY, Wang WL, Hu XT, Chen X, Ni Y, Lei YH, Qiu QY, Tao LY, Luo TW, Wang NY. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 9-methyl-9H-purine and thieno[3, 2-d]pyrimidine derivatives as potent mTOR inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2023; 132:106356. [PMID: 36669357 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106356] [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: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been proved to be an effective target for cancer therapy. Two kinds of mTOR inhibitors, the rapalogs and mTOR kinase inhibitors (TORKi), have been developed and clinically validated in several types of malignancies. Compared with rapalogs, TORKi can exert better antitumor activity by inhibiting both mTORC1 and mTORC2, but the clinical development of current TORKi candidates has been relative slow, more TORKi with novel scaffold need to be developed to expand the current pipelines. In this study, a series of 9-methyl-9H-purine and thieno[3, 2-d]pyrimidine derivatives were designed, synthesized and biological evaluation. Most of these compounds exhibited good mTOR kinase inhibitory activity and selectivity over PI3Kα. Subsequent antiproliferative assay allowed us to identify the lead compound 15i, which display nanomolar to low micromolar IC50s against six human cancer cell lines. 15i could induce cell cycle arrest of MCF-7, PC-3 and A549 cells at the G0/G1 phase and suppress the migration and invasion of these cancer cells by suppressing the phosphorylation of AKT and P70S6 kinase. It could also regulate autophagy-related proteins to induce autophagy. Therefore, 15i would be a starting point for the development of new TORKi as anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yue Yang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wan-Li Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia-Tong Hu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Ni
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan-Hua Lei
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi-Yuan Qiu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Long-Yue Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tian-Wen Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ning-Yu Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China.
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6
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Zhang J, Yin DP, Zhang Y, Zhang JN, Yang Y, Zhang ZQ, Zhou L, Lv Y, Huang HW, Cao C. Identification of Gαi3 as a novel molecular therapeutic target of cervical cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:5667-5680. [PMID: 36263185 PMCID: PMC9576524 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.77126] [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: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we studied expression and potential functions of Gαi3 in cervical cancer. The bioinformatics analysis together with the results from local patients' tissues revealed that Gαi3 expression was remarkably elevated in human cervical cancer tissues and different cervical cancer cells, and was associated with poor overall survival and poor disease-specific survival of patients. Gαi3 depletion resulted in profound anti-cervical cancer activity. In primary or immortalized cervical cancer cells, Gαi3 shRNA or CRISPR/Cas9-caused Gαi3 knockout/KO largely hindered cell proliferation and migration, and provoked apoptosis. On the contrast, ectopic Gαi3 overexpression further enhanced cervical cancer proliferation and migration. Akt-mTOR activation in primary cervical cancer cells was significantly reduced after Gαi3 silencing or KO, but was augmented following Gαi3 overexpression. Further studies revealed that the transcription factor GATA4 binding to Gαi3 promoter region was significantly enhanced in cervical cancer tissues and cells. Gαi3 expression was decreased by GATA4 shRNA, but upregulated following GATA4 overexpression. In vivo, the growth of cervical cancer xenografts was robustly suppressed after Gαi3 silencing or KO. Gαi3 depletion and Akt-mTOR inactivation were detected in Gαi3-silenced/-KO cervical cancer xenograft tissues. Together, upregulated Gαi3 is a valuable oncotarget of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - De-pei Yin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jia-nan Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhi-qing Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Center of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Lv
- Center of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Yan Lv, E-mail: ; Prof. Hai-wei Huang, E-mail: ; Prof. Cong Cao, E-mail:
| | - Hai-wei Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Yan Lv, E-mail: ; Prof. Hai-wei Huang, E-mail: ; Prof. Cong Cao, E-mail:
| | - Cong Cao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Affiliated Zhangjiagang Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Yan Lv, E-mail: ; Prof. Hai-wei Huang, E-mail: ; Prof. Cong Cao, E-mail:
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7
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Targeting sphingosine kinase 1/2 by a novel dual inhibitor SKI-349 suppresses non-small cell lung cancer cell growth. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:602. [PMID: 35831279 PMCID: PMC9279331 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05049-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) and sphingosine kinase (SphK2) are both important therapeutic targets of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SKI-349 is a novel, highly efficient and small molecular SphK1/2 dual inhibitor. Here in primary human NSCLC cells and immortalized cell lines, SKI-349 potently inhibited cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration and viability. The dual inhibitor induced mitochondrial depolarization and apoptosis activation in NSCLC cells, but it was non-cytotoxic to human lung epithelial cells. SKI-349 inhibited SphK activity and induced ceramide accumulation in primary NSCLC cells, without affecting SphK1/2 expression. SKI-349-induced NSCLC cell death was attenuated by sphingosine-1-phosphate and by the SphK activator K6PC-5, but was potentiated by the short-chain ceramide C6. Moreover, SKI-349 induced Akt-mTOR inactivation, JNK activation, and oxidative injury in primary NSCLC cells. In addition, SKI-349 decreased bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) expression and downregulated BRD4-dependent genes (Myc, cyclin D1 and Klf4) in primary NSCLC cells. At last, SKI-349 (10 mg/kg) administration inhibited NSCLC xenograft growth in nude mice. Akt-mTOR inhibition, JNK activation, oxidative injury and BRD4 downregulation were detected in SKI-349-treated NSCLC xenograft tissues. Taken together, targeting SphK1/2 by SKI-349 potently inhibits NSCLC cell growth in vitro and in vivo.
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8
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Sphingolipid Metabolism and Signaling in Lung Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic Target. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:9099612. [PMID: 35799611 PMCID: PMC9256431 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9099612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are important bioactive lipids that not only play an important role in maintaining the barrier function and fluidity of cell membranes but also regulate multiple processes in cancer development by controlling multiple signaling pathways in the signal transduction network. Dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism is thought to be one of the most important dysregulated pathways in lung cancer, the most prevalent type of cancer in terms of incidence and mortality worldwide. This article focuses on lung cancer, reviewing the important lipids in sphingolipid metabolism and the related enzymes in relation to lung cancer progression and their effects on the tumor microenvironment and discussing their roles in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
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9
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An mTOR and DNA-PK dual inhibitor CC-115 hinders non-small cell lung cancer cell growth. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:293. [PMID: 35717530 PMCID: PMC9206683 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01082-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Molecularly-targeted agents are still urgently needed for better non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) therapy. CC-115 is a potent DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) dual blocker. We evaluated its activity in different human NSCLC cells. In various primary human NSCLC cells and A549 cells, CC-115 potently inhibited viability, cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and hindered cell migration/invasion. Apoptosis was provoked in CC-115-stimulated NSCLC cells. The dual inhibitor, however, was unable to induce significant cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic activity in the lung epithelial cells. In primary NSCLC cells, CC-115 blocked activation of mTORC1/2 and DNA-PK. Yet, CC-115-induced primary NSCLC cell death was more potent than combined inhibition of DNA-PK plus mTOR. Further studies found that CC-115 provoked robust oxidative injury in primary NSCLC cells, which appeared independent of mTOR-DNA-PK dual blockage. In vivo studies showed that CC-115 oral administration in nude mice remarkably suppressed primary NSCLC cell xenograft growth. In CC-115-treated NSCLC xenograft tissues, mTOR-DNA-PK dual inhibition and oxidative injury were detected. Together, CC-115 potently inhibits NSCLC cell growth.
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10
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Yao J, Wu XY, Yu Q, Yang SF, Yuan J, Zhang ZQ, Xue JS, Jiang Q, Chen MB, Xue GH, Cao C. The requirement of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 for angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn6928. [PMID: 35622925 PMCID: PMC9140980 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn6928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We here examined the potential biological function of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PCK1) in angiogenesis. shRNA- or CRISPR-Cas9-induced PCK1 depletion potently inhibited endothelial cell proliferation, migration, sprouting, and tube formation, whereas ectopic PCK1 overexpression exerted opposite activity. In HUVECs, Gαi3 expression and Akt activation were decreased following PCK1 depletion, but were augmented by ectopic PCK1 overexpression. In vivo, retinal expression of PCK1 gradually increased from postnatal day 1 (P1) to P5. The intravitreous injection of endothelial-specific PCK1 shRNA adenovirus at P1 potently inhibited the radial extension of vascular plexus at P5. Conditional endothelial knockdown of PCK1 in adult mouse retina increased vascular leakage and the number of acellular capillaries while decreasing the number of RGCs in murine retinas. In diabetic retinopathy patients, PCK1 mRNA and protein levels were up-regulated in retinal tissues. Together, PCK1 is essential for angiogenesis possibly by mediating Gαi3 expression and Akt activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yao
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin-yuan Wu
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Yu
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuo-fei Yang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Yuan
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-qing Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jin-song Xue
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min-bin Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Kunshan, China
| | - Guan-hua Xue
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Cao
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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11
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GNE-493 inhibits prostate cancer cell growth via Akt-mTOR-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:120. [PMID: 35296639 PMCID: PMC8927604 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00911-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
GNE-493 is a novel PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitor with improved metabolic stability, oral bioavailability, and excellent pharmacokinetic parameters. Here GNE-493 potently inhibited viability, proliferation, and migration in different primary and established (LNCaP and PC-3 lines) prostate cancer cells, and provoking apoptosis. GNE-493 blocked Akt-mTOR activation in primary human prostate cancer cells. A constitutively-active mutant Akt1 restored Akt-mTOR activation but only partially ameliorated GNE-493-induced prostate cancer cell death. Moreover, GNE-493 was still cytotoxic in Akt1/2-silenced primary prostate cancer cells. Significant oxidative stress and programmed necrosis cascade activation were detected in GNE-493-treated prostate cancer cells. Moreover, GNE-493 downregulated Sphingosine Kinase 1 (SphK1), causing ceramide accumulation in primary prostate cancer cells. Daily single dose GNE-493 oral administration robustly inhibited the growth of the prostate cancer xenograft in the nude mice. Akt-mTOR inactivation, SphK1 downregulation, ceramide level increase, and oxidative injury were detected in GNE-493-treated prostate cancer xenograft tissues. Together, GNE-493 inhibited prostate cancer cell growth possibly through the Akt-mTOR-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
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12
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Jiao PF, Tang PJ, Chu D, Li YM, Xu WH, Ren GF. Long Non-Coding RNA THOR Depletion Inhibits Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Growth. Front Oncol 2021; 11:756148. [PMID: 34868966 PMCID: PMC8635526 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.756148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) THOR (Lnc-THOR) is expressed in testis and multiple human malignancies. Lnc-THOR association with IGF2BP1 (IGF2 mRNA-binding protein 1) is essential for stabilization and transcription of IGF2BP1 targeted mRNAs. We tested its expression and potential functions in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In primary NSCLC cells and established cell lines, Lnc-THOR shRNA or CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout (KO) downregulated IGF2BP1 target mRNAs (IGF2, Gli1, Myc and SOX9), inhibiting cell viability, growth, proliferation, migration and invasion. Significant apoptosis activation was detected in Lnc-THOR-silenced/-KO NSCLC cells. Conversely, ectopic overexpression of Lnc-THOR upregulated IGF2BP1 mRNA targets and enhanced NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. RNA-immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assay results confirmed the direct binding between Lnc-THOR and IGF2BP1 protein in NSCLC cells. Lnc-THOR silencing and overexpression were ineffective in IGF2BP1-KO NSCLC cells. Forced IGF2BP1 overexpression failed to rescue Lnc-THOR-KO NSCLC cells. In vivo, intratumoral injection of Lnc-THOR shRNA adeno-associated virus potently inhibited A549 xenograft tumor growth in nude mice. At last we show that Lnc-THOR is overexpressed in multiple NSCLC tissues and established/primary NSCLC cells. Collectively, these results highlighted the ability of Lnc-THOR in promoting NSCLC cell growth by associating with IGF2BP1, suggesting that Lnc-THOR represents a promising therapeutic target of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Jiao
- Department of Respiration and Intensive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pei-Jun Tang
- Department of Pulmonary, The Affiliated Infectious Diseases Hospital of Soochow University, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou, China
| | - Dan Chu
- Department of Respiration and Intensive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Meng Li
- Department of Respiration and Intensive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Hua Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Gao-Fei Ren
- Department of Respiration and Intensive, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Identification of histone methyltransferase NSD2 as an important oncogenic gene in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:974. [PMID: 34671018 PMCID: PMC8528846 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04267-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second common cause of cancer-related human mortalities. Dysregulation of histone 3 (H3) methylation could lead to transcriptional activation of multiple oncogenes, which is closely associated with CRC tumorigenesis and progression. Nuclear receptor-binding SET Domain protein 2 (NSD2) is a key histone methyltransferase catalyzing histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation (H3K36me2). Its expression, the potential functions, and molecular mechanisms in CRC are studied here. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) bioinformatics results showed that the NSD2 mRNA expression is elevated in both colon cancers and rectal cancers. Furthermore, NSD2 mRNA and protein expression levels in local colon cancer tissues are significantly higher than those in matched surrounding normal tissues. In primary human colon cancer cells and established CRC cell lines, shRNA-induced silencing or CRISPR/Cas9-induced knockout of NSD2 inhibited cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, NSD2 shRNA or knockout induced mitochondrial depolarization, DNA damage, and apoptosis in the primary and established CRC cells. Contrarily, ectopic NSD2 overexpression in primary colon cancer cells further enhanced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. H3K36me2, expressions of multiple oncogenes (ADAM9, EGFR, Sox2, Bcl-2, SYK, and MET) and Akt activation were significantly decreased after NSD2 silencing or knockout in primary colon cancer cells. Their levels were however increased after ectopic NSD2 overexpression. A catalytic inactive NSD2 (Y1179A) also inhibited H3K36me2, multiple oncogenes expression, and Akt activation, as well as cell proliferation and migration in primary colon cancer cells. In vivo, intratumoral injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-packed NSD2 shRNA largely inhibited primary colon cancer cell xenograft growth in nude mice. Together, NSD2 exerted oncogenic functions in CRC and could be a promising therapeutic target.
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14
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Zhou T, Sang YH, Cai S, Xu C, Shi MH. The requirement of mitochondrial RNA polymerase for non-small cell lung cancer cell growth. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:751. [PMID: 34326320 PMCID: PMC8322058 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
POLRMT (RNA polymerase mitochondrial) is responsible for the transcription of mitochondrial genome encoding key components of oxidative phosphorylation. This process is important for cancer cell growth. The current study tested expression and potential functions of POLRMT in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). TCGA cohorts and the results from the local lung cancer tissues showed that POLRMT is overexpressed in human lung cancer tissues. In both primary human NSCLC cells and A549 cells, POLRMT silencing (by targeted lentiviral shRNAs) or knockout (through CRSIPR/Cas9 gene editing method) potently inhibited cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis activation. On the contrast, ectopic overexpression of POLRMT using a lentiviral construct accelerated cell proliferation and migration in NSCLC cells. The mtDNA contents, mRNA levels of mitochondrial transcripts, and subunits of respiratory chain complexes, as well as S6 phosphorylation, were decreased in POLRMT-silenced or -knockout NSCLC cells, but increased after ectopic POLRMT overexpression. In vivo, intratumoral injection of POLRMT shRNA adeno-associated virus (AAV) potently inhibited NSCLC xenograft growth in severe combined immune deficiency mice. The mtDNA contents, mRNA levels of mitochondria respiratory chain complex subunits, and S6 phosphorylation were decreased in POLRMT shRNA AAV-injected NSCLC xenograft tissues. These results show that POLRMT is a novel and important oncogene required for NSCLC cell growth in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yong-Hua Sang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shang Cai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chun Xu
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Min-Hua Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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15
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Zha JH, Xia YC, Ye CL, Hu Z, Zhang Q, Xiao H, Yu BT, Xu WH, Xu GQ. The Anti-Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Activity by a mTOR Kinase Inhibitor PQR620. Front Oncol 2021; 11:669518. [PMID: 34178653 PMCID: PMC8222575 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.669518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), aberrant activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) contributes to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. PQR620 is a novel and highly-potent mTOR kinase inhibitor. We here tested its potential activity in NSCLC cells. In primary human NSCLC cells and established cell lines (A549 and NCI-H1944), PQR620 inhibited cell growth, proliferation, and cell cycle progression, as well as cell migration and invasion, while inducing significant apoptosis activation. PQR620 disrupted assembles of mTOR complex 1 (mTOR-Raptor) and mTOR complex 2 (mTOR-Rictor-Sin1), and blocked Akt, S6K1, and S6 phosphorylations in NSCLC cells. Restoring Akt-mTOR activation by a constitutively-active Akt1 (S473D) only partially inhibited PQR620-induced cytotoxicity in NSCLC cells. PQR620 was yet cytotoxic in Akt1/2-silenced NSCLC cells, supporting the existence of Akt-mTOR-independent mechanisms. Indeed, PQR620 induced sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) inhibition, ceramide production and oxidative stress in primary NSCLC cells. In vivo studies demonstrated that daily oral administration of a single dose of PQR620 potently inhibited primary NSCLC xenograft growth in severe combined immune deficient mice. In PQR620-treated xenograft tissues, Akt-mTOR inactivation, apoptosis induction, SphK1 inhibition and oxidative stress were detected. In conclusion, PQR620 exerted potent anti-NSCLC cell activity via mTOR-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hua Zha
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ying-Chen Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chun-Lin Ye
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhi Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Suzhou Hospital Affiliated Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ben-Tong Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei-Hua Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Guo-Qiu Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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16
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Shu X, Lu C, Shao S, Liu X, Yang C, Luo J, Du Q. Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking to Explore the Mechanism of Shan Ci Gu ( Cremastra appendiculata) Against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Chem 2021; 9:682862. [PMID: 34178945 PMCID: PMC8220148 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.682862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the incidence and mortality rates of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have increased significantly. Shan Ci Gu is commonly used as an anticancer drug in traditional Chinese medicine; however, its specific mechanism against NSCLC has not yet been elucidated. Here, the mechanism was clarified through network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods: The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database was searched for the active ingredients of Shan Ci Gu, and the relevant targets in the Swiss Target Prediction database were obtained according to the structure of the active ingredients. GeneCards were searched for NSCLC-related disease targets. We obtained the cross-target using VENNY to obtain the core targets. The core targets were imported into the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, and Cytoscape software was used to operate a mesh chart. R software was used to analyze the Gene Ontology biological processes (BPs) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment. The core targets and active compounds were molecularly docked through Auto-Dock Vina software to predict the detailed molecular mechanism of Shan Ci Gu for NSCLC treatment. We did a simple survival analysis with hub gene to assess the prognosis of NSCLC patients. Results: Three compounds were screened to obtain 143 target genes and 1,226 targets related to NSCLC, of which 56 genes were related to NSCLC treatment. Shan Ci Gu treatment for NSCLC involved many BPs and acted on main targets including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), ESR1, and SRC through signaling pathways including the endocrine resistance, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, and ErbB signaling pathways. Shan Ci Gu might be beneficial for treating NSCLC by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration. Molecular docking revealed that the active compounds β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and 2-methoxy-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-4,5-diol had good affinity with the core target genes (EGFR, SRC, and ESR1). Core targets included EGFR, SRC, ESR1, ERBB2, MTOR, MCL1, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), MMP9, KDR, and JAK2. Key KEGG pathways included endocrine resistance, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, ErbB signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, and Rap1 signaling pathways. These core targets and pathways have an inhibitory effect on the proliferation of NSCLC cells. Conclusion: Shan Ci Gu can treat NSCLC through a multi-target, multi-pathway molecular mechanism and effectively improve NSCLC prognosis. This study could serve as a reference for further mechanistic research on wider application of Shan Ci Gu for NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunwu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yujia Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyao Shu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaorui Lu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiliang Shao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xingting Liu
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingsong Luo
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Quanyu Du
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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