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Zhang W, Yu L, Xu C, Tang T, Cao J, Chen L, Pang X, Ren W. PLEK2 activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to drive lung adenocarcinoma progression by upregulating SPC25. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:1285-1300. [PMID: 38894536 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common subtype of NSCLC, characterized by poor prognosis and frequently diagnosed at advanced. While previous studies have demonstrated pleckstrin-2 (PLEK2) as aberrantly expressed and implicated in tumorigenesis across various tumor types, including LUAD, the molecular mechanisms underlying PLEK2-mediated LUAD progression remain incompletely understood. In this study, we obtained data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to assess PLEK2 expression in LUAD, a finding further confirmed through analysis of human tissue specimens. PLEK2-silenced LUAD cellular models were subsequently constructed to examine the functional role of PLEK2 both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed elevated PLEK2 expression in LUAD, correlating with poor patients' prognosis. PLEK2 knockdown led to a significant suppression of LUAD cell proliferation and migration, accompanied by enhanced apoptosis. Moreover, tumor growth in mice injected with PLEK2-silencing LUAD cells was impaired. Gene expression profiling and Co-IP assays suggested direct interaction between PLEK2 and SPC25, with downregulation of SPC25 similarly impairing cell proliferation and migration. Additionally, we revealed phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling activation as requisite for PLEK2-induced malignant phenotypes in LUAD. Collectively, our findings underscore PLEK2's oncogenic potential in LUAD, suggesting its utility as a prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for LUAD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Cong Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianguang Cao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinya Pang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weihao Ren
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, China
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2
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Cheng K, Chen Q, Chen Z, Cai Y, Cai H, Wu S, Gao P, Cai Y, Wu Z, Zhou J, Peng B, Wang X. PLEK2 promotes migration and invasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by MMP1 through IL-17 pathway. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05078-x. [PMID: 39117976 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05078-x] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by poor prognosis primarily due to metastasis. Accumulating evidence suggests that PLEK2 acts as an oncogene in various tumors. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PLEK2 on PDAC. Expression analysis of PLEK2 was conducted using qRT-PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry in PDAC. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to evaluate the impact of PLEK2 on cell migration and invasion. A xenograft tumor model was employed to assess the in vivo proliferation of PLEK2. Additionally, the downstream pathway of PLEK2 was analyzed through RNA-seq and confirmed by Western blot analysis. The results demonstrated the upregulation of PLEK2 expression in tumor specimens. High PLEK2 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival and advanced TNM stages. Correlation analyses revealed positive correlations between PLEK2 and TGF-β, EGFR, and MMP1. Wound healing and transwell assays demonstrated that PLEK2 promoted PDAC cell migration and invasion, potentially through the activation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition process. The in vivo experiment further confirmed that PLEK2 knockdown suppressed tumor growth. RNA-seq analysis revealed PLEK2's regulation of MMP1 and activation of p-ERK and p-STAT3, which were verified by Western blot analysis. Overall, the present study suggests that PLEK2 may play a tumor-promoting role in PDAC. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer and highlight the potential of PLEK2 as a therapeutic target.
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Grants
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81902434, 82273018, 82272685 Natural Science Foundation of China
- 2018HXFH015 1.3.5 project for disciplines of excellence, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
- 2018HXFH015 1.3.5 project for disciplines of excellence, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
- 2018HXFH015 1.3.5 project for disciplines of excellence, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
- 2021YFS0108, 2023YFS0128 Sichuan Science and Technology Program
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Cheng
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiangxing Chen
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zixin Chen
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Cai
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - He Cai
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shangdi Wu
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Pan Gao
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunqiang Cai
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhong Wu
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bing Peng
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Gu L, Yue X, Niu S, Ma J, Liu S, Pan M, Song L, Su Q, Tan Y, Li Y, Chang J. Systematical identification of key genes and regulatory genetic variants associated with prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2024; 63:1013-1023. [PMID: 38380955 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23704] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) stands as a highly lethal malignancy characterized by pronounced recurrence and metastasis, resulting in a bleak 5-year survival rate. Despite extensive investigations, encompassing genome-wide association studies, the identification of robust prognostic markers has remained elusive. In this study, leveraging four independent data sets comprising 404 ESCC patients, we conducted a systematic analysis to unveil pivotal genes influencing overall survival. our meta-analysis identified 278 genes significantly associated with ESCC prognosis. Further exploration of the prognostic landscape involved an examination of expression quantitative trait loci for these genes, leading to the identification of six tag single nucleotide polymorphisms predictive of overall survival in a cohort of 904 ESCC patients. Notably, functional annotation spotlighted rs11227223, residing in the enhancer region of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), as a crucial variant likely exerting a substantive biological role. Through a series of biochemistry experiments, we conclusively demonstrated that the rs11227223-T allele, indicative of a poorer prognosis, augmented NEAT1 expression. Our results underscore the substantive role of NEAT1 and its regulatory variant in prognostic predictions for ESCC. This comprehensive analysis not only advances our comprehension of ESCC prognosis but also unveils a potential avenue for targeted interventions, offering promise for enhanced clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linglong Gu
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinying Yue
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Siyuan Niu
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jialing Ma
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shasha Liu
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Miaoxin Pan
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lina Song
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianqian Su
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqian Tan
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yueping Li
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Chang
- Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Shi C, Wang C, Fu Z, Liu J, Zhou Y, Cheng B, Zhang C, Li S, Zhang Y. Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) confers acquired resistance to almonertinib in NSCLC through LCN2-MMP-9 signaling pathway. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107088. [PMID: 38295916 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Almonertinib, a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is highly selective for EGFR-activating mutations as well as the EGFR T790M mutation in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the development of resistance inevitably occurs and poses a major obstacle to the clinical efficacy of almonertinib. Therefore, a clear understanding of the mechanism is of great significance to overcome drug resistance to almonertinib in the future. In this study, NCI-H1975 cell lines resistant to almonertinib (NCI-H1975 AR) were developed by concentration-increasing induction and were employed for clarification of underlying mechanisms of acquired resistance. Through RNA-seq analysis, the HIF-1 and TGF-β signaling pathways were significantly enriched by gene set enrichment analysis. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), as the core node in these two signaling pathways, were found to be positively correlated to almonertinib-resistance in NSCLC cells. The function of LCN2 in the drug resistance of almonertinib was investigated through knockdown and overexpression assays in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) was further identified as a critical downstream effector of LCN2 signaling, which is regulated via the LCN2-MMP-9 axis. Pharmacological inhibition of MMP-9 could overcome resistance to almonertinib, as evidenced in both in vitro and in vivo models. Our findings suggest that LCN2 was a crucial regulator for conferring almonertinib-resistance in NSCLC and demonstrate the potential utility of targeting the LCN2-MMP-9 axis for clinical treatment of almonertinib-resistant lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiwen Fu
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinmei Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanfeng Zhou
- Department of Preclinical Translational Science, Shanghai Hansoh Biomedical Co.,Ltd., Shanghai 201203. China
| | - Bao Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Hansoh Biomedical Co., Ltd, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shijun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, China.
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5
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Ye YH, Zhang YT, Luo YL, Xu AP, Ji L. Identification of tumor heterogeneity associated with KRAS/TP53 co-mutation status in lung adenocarcinoma based on single-cell RNA sequencing. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:655-678. [PMID: 38455404 PMCID: PMC10915312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer stands as the predominant cause of cancer-related mortality globally. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), being the most prevalent subtype, garners extensive attention due to its notable heterogeneity, which significantly influences tumor development and treatment approaches. This research leverages single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets to delve into the impact of KRAS/TP53 co-mutation status on LUAD. Moreover, utilizing the TCGA-LUAD dataset, we formulated a novel predictive risk model, comprising seven prognostic genes, through LASSO regression, and subjected it to both internal and external validation sets. The study underscores the profound impact of KRAS/TP53 co-mutational status on the tumor microenvironment (TME) of LUAD. Crucially, KRAS/TP53 co-mutation markedly influences the extent of B cell infiltration and various immune-related pathways within the TME. The newly developed predictive risk model exhibited robust performance across both internal and external validation sets, establishing itself as a viable independent prognostic factor. Additionally, in vitro experiments indicate that MELTF and PLEK2 can modulate the invasion and proliferation of human non-small cell lung cancer cells. In conclusion, we elucidated that KRAS/TP53 co-mutations may modulate TME and patient prognosis by orchestrating B cells and affiliated pathways. Furthermore, we spotlight that MELTF and PLEK2 not only function as prognostic indicators for LUAD, but also lay the foundation for the exploration of innovative therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hui Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu-Ting Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan UniversityGuangzhou 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu-Lou Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xinjiang Medical UniversityUrumqi 830000, Xinjiang, China
| | - An-Ping Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Ling Ji
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
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6
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Bao Y, Yan Z, Shi N, Tian X, Li J, Li T, Cheng X, Lv J. LCN2: Versatile players in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116091. [PMID: 38171248 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116091] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) is a secreted glycoprotein that is produced by immune cells, including neutrophils and macrophages. It serves various functions such as transporting hydrophobic ligands across the cellular membrane, regulating immune responses, keeping iron balance, and fostering epithelial cell differentiation. LCN2 plays a crucial role in several physiological processes. LCN2 expression is upregulated in a variety of human diseases and cancers. High levels of LCN2 are specifically linked to breast cancer (BC) cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, immune regulation, chemotherapy resistance, and prognosis. As a result, LCN2 has gained attention as a potential therapeutic target for BC. This article offered an in-depth review of the advancement of LCN2 in the context of BC occurrence and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Bao
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563099, China
| | - Zhongliang Yan
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563099, China
| | - Nianmei Shi
- The First Clinical Institute, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, China
| | - Xiaoyan Tian
- The First Clinical Institute, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, China
| | - Jiayang Li
- Office of Drug Clinical Trial Institution, the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563099, China
| | - Taolang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563099, China
| | - Xiaoming Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563099, China.
| | - Junyuan Lv
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563099, China; Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
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Li Q, Li J, Wang J, Wang J, Lu T, Jia Y, Sun H, Ma X. PLEK2 mediates metastasis and invasion via α5-nAChR activation in nicotine-induced lung adenocarcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2024; 63:253-265. [PMID: 37921560 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Evidence has shown a strong relationship between smoking and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). α5-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α5-nAChR) contributes to nicotine-induced lung cancer cell EMT. The cytoskeleton-associated protein PLEK2 is mainly involved in cytoskeletal protein recombination and cell stretch migration regulation, which is closely related to EMT. However, little is known about the link between nicotine/α5-nAChR and PLEK2 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Here, we identified a link between α5-nAChR and PLEK2 in LUAD. α5-nAChR expression was correlated with PLEK2 expression, smoking status and lower survival in vivo. α5-nAChR mediated nicotine-induced PLEK2 expression via STAT3. α5-nAChR/PLEK2 signaling is involved in LUAD cell migration, invasion and stemness. Moreover, PLEK2 was found to interact with CFL1 in nicotine-induced EMT in LUAD cells. Furthermore, the functional link among α5-nAChR, PLEK2 and CFL1 was confirmed in mouse xenograft tissues and human LUAD tissues. These findings reveal a novel α5-nAChR/PLEK2/CFL1 pathway involved in nicotine-induced LUAD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Li
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingtan Li
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingting Wang
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tong Lu
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Intelligent Technology Innovation Center, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanfei Jia
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Haiji Sun
- Shandong Intelligent Technology Innovation Center, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- College of Life Science, Shandong Normal University, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoli Ma
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Center of Basic Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Intelligent Technology Innovation Center, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Stress Injury of Shandong Province, Shandong, China
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Zhao W, Ding C, Zhao M, Li Y, Huang H, Li X, Cheng Q, Shi Z, Gao W, Liu H, Chen J. Identification and Validation of a Hypoxia and Glycolysis Prognostic Signatures in Lung Adenocarcinoma. J Cancer 2024; 15:1568-1582. [PMID: 38370379 PMCID: PMC10869968 DOI: 10.7150/jca.91504] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) represents a prevalent subtype of non-small cell lung cancer with a complex molecular landscape. Dysregulated cellular energetics, notably the interplay between hypoxia and glycolysis, has emerged as a hallmark feature of LUAD tumorigenesis and progression. In this study, we aimed to identify hypoxia and glycolysis related gene signatures and construct a prognostic model to enhance the clinical management of LUAD. Methods: A gene signature associated with hypoxia and glycolysis was established within the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort and subsequently validated in the GSE31210 cohort. Additionally, a nomogram was formulated to aid in predictive modeling. Subsequently, an evaluation of the tumor microenvironment and immune checkpoints expression levels was conducted to discern disparities between low risk and high risk groups. Lastly, an exploration for drugs with potential effectiveness was carried out. Results: Our analyses revealed a distinct hypoxia and glycolysis related gene signature consisting of 6 genes significantly associated with LUAD patient survival. Integration of these genes into the prognostic model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy for patient outcomes. Furthermore, we developed a user-friendly nomogram that effectively translates the model's prognostic information into a practical tool for clinical decision-making. Conclusion: This study elucidates the critical role of hypoxia and glycolysis related genes in LUAD and offers a novel prognostic model with promising clinical utility. This model has the potential to refine risk stratification and guide personalized therapeutic interventions, ultimately improving the prognosis of LUAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zhao
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Ding
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Meiru Zhao
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital/ Tianjin Institute of Sexually Transmitted Disease, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongwen Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuanguang Li
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Cheng
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zijian Shi
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Weining Gao
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Lung Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment, Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Xia X, Zhao S, Chen W, Xu C, Zhao D. CCT6A promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by activating TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2653-2660. [PMID: 37017854 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03357-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chaperonin-containing TCP1 subunit 6A (CCT6A) facilitates several malignant cancer behaviors, but its regulation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been reported. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CCT6A on cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its interaction with the TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway in ESCC. METHODS CCT6A expression was detected in ESCC and normal esophageal epithelial cell lines by RT‒qPCR and western blotting. Furthermore, CCT6A siRNA, negative control (NC) siRNA, CCT6A encoding plasmid and NC encoding plasmid were transfected into OE21 and TE-1 cells. Subsequently, CCT6A siRNA- and NC siRNA-transfected cells were treated with TGF-β for rescue experiments. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and E-cadherin/N-cadherin and p-Smad2/p-Smad3/c-Myc expression were detected. RESULTS CCT6A expression was increased in KYSE-180, TE-1, TE-4 and OE21 cells compared with HET-1A cells. In both OE21 and TE-1 cells, CCT6A knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and N-cadherin expression while promoting cell apoptosis and E-cadherin expression; meanwhile, CCT6A overexpression had the opposite effects. Furthermore, in both OE21 and TE-1 cells, CCT6A knockdown decreased p-Smad2/Smad2, p-Smad3/Smad3 and c-Myc/GAPDH expression; CCT6A overexpression had the opposite effects. Next, TGF-β facilitated cell proliferation, invasion, and N-cadherin, p-Smad2/Smad2, p-Smad3/Smad2 and c-Myc/GAPDH expression while repressing cell apoptosis and E-cadherin expression in OE21 and TE-1 cells; importantly, TGF-β could compensate for the regulation of CCT6A knockdown on these activities. CONCLUSION CCT6A facilitates ESCC malignant activities by activating the TGF-β/Smad/c-Myc pathway, which sheds light on the identification of a possible therapeutic target in the management of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Shushan Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- Department of Endoscopy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Handan Central Hospital, Handan, 056001, China
| | - Dongqiang Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China.
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Mao D, Zhou Z, Chen H, Liu X, Li D, Chen X, He Y, Liu M, Zhang C. Pleckstrin-2 promotes tumour immune escape from NK cells by activating the MT1-MMP-MICA signalling axis in gastric cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 572:216351. [PMID: 37591356 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Immune escape is a major challenge in tumour immunotherapy. Pleckstrin-2(PLEK2) plays a critical role in tumour progression, but its role in immune escape in gastric cancer (GC) remains uncharacterized. RNA sequencing was used to explore the differentially expressed genes in a GC cell line that was resistant to the antitumor effect of Natural killer (NK) cells. Apoptosis and the expression of IFN-γ and TNF-α were detected by flow cytometry (FCM). PLEK2 expression was examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). PLEK2 was upregulated in MGC803R cells that were resistant to the antitumor effect of NK cells. PLEK2 knockout increased the sensitivity of GC cells to NK cell killing. PLEK2 expression was negatively correlated with MICA and positively correlated with MT1-MMP expression both in vitro and in vivo. PLEK2 promoted Sp1 phosphorylation through the PI3K-AKT pathway, thereby upregulating MT1-MMP expression, which ultimately led to MICA shedding. In mouse xenograft models, PLEK2 knockout inhibited intraperitoneal metastasis of GC cells and promoted NK cell infiltration. In summary, PLEK2 suppressed NK cell immune surveillance by promoting MICA shedding, which serves as a potential therapeutic target for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deli Mao
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, United States
| | - Hengxing Chen
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinran Liu
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongsheng Li
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiancong Chen
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Yulong He
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 58 Zhongshan 2nd Road, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China.
| | - Changhua Zhang
- Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China.
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Liu J, Chen H, Qiao G, Zhang JT, Zhang S, Zhu C, Chen Y, Tang J, Li W, Wang S, Tian H, Chen Z, Ma D, Tian J, Wu YL. PLEK2 and IFI6, representing mesenchymal and immune-suppressive microenvironment, predicts resistance to neoadjuvant immunotherapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:881-893. [PMID: 36121452 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03288-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy has largely improved clinical outcome of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, a proportion of patients still fail to benefit. Thus, biomarkers predicting therapeutic resistance and underlying mechanism needs to be investigated. METHODS Transcriptomic profiling was applied in FFPE tissues from 103 ESCC patients, including surgical samples from 66 treatment-naïve patients with long-term follow-up, and endoscopic biopsies from 37 local advanced ESCC cases receiving neoadjuvant immunotherapy plus chemotherapy. Unsupervised clustering indicated an aggressive phenotype with mesenchymal character in 66 treatment-naïve samples. Univariant logistic regression was applied to identify candidate biomarkers potentially predicted resistance to neoadjuvant immunotherapy within the range of mesenchymal phenotype enriched genes. These biomarkers were further validated by immunohistochemistry. Putative mechanisms mediating immunotherapy resistance, as indicated by microenvironment and immune cell infiltration, were evaluated by transcriptomic data, and validated by multiplex immunofluorescence. RESULTS PLEK2 and IFI6, highly expressed in mesenchymal phenotype, were identified as novel biomarkers relating to non-MPR in neoadjuvant immunotherapy cohort [PLEK2high, OR (95% CI): 2.15 (1.07-4.33), P = 0.032; IFI6high, OR (95% CI): 2.21 (1.16-4.23), P = 0.016). PLEK2high and IFI6 high ESCC patients (versus low expressed patients) further exhibit higher chance of non-major pathological remissions (90%, P = 0.004) in neoadjuvant immunotherapy cohort and high mortality (78.9%, P = 0.05), poor prognosis in retrospective cohort. PLEK2high/IFI6high ESCC recapitulated mesenchymal phenotype, characterized by extracellular matrix composition and matrix remodeling. In addition, PLEK2high or IFI6high ESCC displayed an immune-unfavored microenvironment, represented by positive correlating with regulatory T cells, Helper 2 T cell as well as less infiltration of B cells, effector T cells and mast cells. CONCLUSIONS PLEK2 and IFI6 was discovered of first time to identify a distinct ESCC subpopulation cannot be benefited from neoadjuvant immunotherapy and present a poor survival, which putatively associated with mesenchymal and immune-suppressive microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Liu
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, 253 Gongye Middle Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.123 Huifu Road West, Guangzhou, 510180, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Guibin Qiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jia-Tao Zhang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shuaitong Zhang
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, No.37 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation,, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Changbin Zhu
- Department of Translational Medicine, Amoy Diagnostics Co., Ltd, Xiamen, 361027, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiming Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Department of Translational Medicine, Amoy Diagnostics Co., Ltd, Xiamen, 361027, China
| | - Siyun Wang
- Department of PET Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hongxia Tian
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhihong Chen
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Dong Ma
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.123 Huifu Road West, Guangzhou, 510180, China.
| | - Jie Tian
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, No.37 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Institute of Automation,, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Yi-Long Wu
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, 253 Gongye Middle Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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12
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Huang Z, Rui X, Yi C, Chen Y, Chen R, Liang Y, Wang Y, Yao W, Xu X, Huang Z. Silencing LCN2 suppresses oral squamous cell carcinoma progression by reducing EGFR signal activation and recycling. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:60. [PMID: 36899380 PMCID: PMC10007849 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02618-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND EGFR is an important signal involved in tumor growth that can induce tumor metastasis and drug resistance. Exploring targets for effective EGFR regulation is an important topic in current research and drug development. Inhibiting EGFR can effectively inhibit the progression and lymph node metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) because OSCC is a type of cancer with high EGFR expression. However, the problem of EGFR drug resistance is particularly prominent, and identifying a new target for EGFR regulation could reveal an effective strategy. METHODS We sequenced wild type or EGFR-resistant OSCC cells and samples from OSCC patients with or without lymph node metastasis to find new targets for EGFR regulation to effectively replace the strategy of directly inhibiting EGFR and exert an antitumor effect. We then investigated the effect of LCN2 on OSCC biological abilities in vitro and in vivo through protein expression regulation. Subsequently, we elucidated the regulatory mechanism of LCN2 through mass spectrometry, protein interaction, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence analyses. As a proof of concept, a reduction-responsive nanoparticle (NP) platform was engineered for effective LCN2 siRNA (siLCN2) delivery, and a tongue orthotopic xenograft model as well as an EGFR-positive patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model were applied to investigate the curative effect of siLCN2. RESULTS We identified lipocalin-2 (LCN2), which is upregulated in OSCC metastasis and EGFR resistance. Inhibition of LCN2 expression can effectively inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of OSCC in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting EGFR phosphorylation and downstream signal activation. Mechanistically, LCN2 binds EGFR and enhances the recycling of EGFR, thereby activating the EGFR-MEK-ERK cascade. Inhibition of LCN2 effectively inhibited the activation of EGFR. We translated this finding by systemic delivery of siLCN2 by NPs, which effectively downregulated LCN2 in the tumor tissues, thereby leading to a significant inhibition of the growth and metastasis of xenografts. CONCLUSIONS This research indicated that targeting LCN2 could be a promising strategy for the treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixian Huang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Rui
- Hospital of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan, 528200, China
| | - Chen Yi
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongju Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yancan Liang
- Department of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Weicheng Yao
- Department of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoding Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. .,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan, 528200, China.
| | - Zhiquan Huang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Ali S, Rehman MU, Yatoo AM, Arafah A, Khan A, Rashid S, Majid S, Ali A, Ali MN. TGF-β signaling pathway: Therapeutic targeting and potential for anti-cancer immunity. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 947:175678. [PMID: 36990262 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is a pleiotropic secretory cytokine exhibiting both cancer-inhibitory and promoting properties. It transmits its signals via Suppressor of Mother against Decapentaplegic (SMAD) and non-SMAD pathways and regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis. In non-cancer and early-stage cancer cells, TGFβ signaling suppresses cancer progression via inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, or anti-proliferation, and promoting cell differentiation. On the other hand, TGFβ may also act as an oncogene in advanced stages of tumors, wherein it develops immune-suppressive tumor microenvironments and induces the proliferation of cancer cells, invasion, angiogenesis, tumorigenesis, and metastasis. Higher TGFβ expression leads to the instigation and development of cancer. Therefore, suppressing TGFβ signals may present a potential treatment option for inhibiting tumorigenesis and metastasis. Different inhibitory molecules, including ligand traps, anti-sense oligo-nucleotides, small molecule receptor-kinase inhibitors, small molecule inhibitors, and vaccines, have been developed and clinically trialed for blocking the TGFβ signaling pathway. These molecules are not pro-oncogenic response-specific but block all signaling effects induced by TGFβ. Nonetheless, targeting the activation of TGFβ signaling with maximized specificity and minimized toxicity can enhance the efficacy of therapeutic approaches against this signaling pathway. The molecules that are used to target TGFβ are non-cytotoxic to cancer cells but designed to curtail the over-activation of invasion and metastasis driving TGFβ signaling in stromal and cancer cells. Here, we discussed the critical role of TGFβ in tumorigenesis, and metastasis, as well as the outcome and the promising achievement of TGFβ inhibitory molecules in the treatment of cancer.
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14
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Choudhary BS, Chaudhary N, Shah M, Dwivedi N, P K S, Das M, Dalal SN. Lipocalin 2 inhibits actin glutathionylation to promote invasion and migration. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:1086-1097. [PMID: 36650979 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Invasive and metastatic tumor cells show an increase in migration and invasion, making the processes contributing to these phenotypes potential therapeutic targets. Lipocalin 2 (LCN2; also known as neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin) is a putative therapeutic target in multiple tumor types and promotes invasion and migration, although the mechanisms underlying these phenotypes are unclear. The data in this report demonstrate that LCN2 promotes actin polymerization, invasion, and migration by inhibiting actin glutathionylation. LCN2 inhibits actin glutathionylation by decreasing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and by reducing intracellular iron levels. Inhibiting LCN2 function leads to increased actin glutathionylation, decreased migration, and decreased invasion. These results suggest that LCN2 is a potential therapeutic target in invasive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhagya Shree Choudhary
- Cell and Tumor Biology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Nazia Chaudhary
- Cell and Tumor Biology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Manya Shah
- Cell and Tumor Biology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Nehanjali Dwivedi
- Molecular Immunology, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Foundation, Bommasandra, Bangalore, India
| | - Smitha P K
- Product Research Group, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Foundation, Bommasandra, Bangalore, India
| | - Manjula Das
- Molecular Immunology, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Foundation, Bommasandra, Bangalore, India
| | - Sorab Nariman Dalal
- Cell and Tumor Biology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
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15
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Saikia M, Bhattacharyya DK, Kalita JK. Identification of Potential Biomarkers Using Integrative Approach: A Case Study of ESCC. SN COMPUTER SCIENCE 2023; 4:114. [PMID: 36573207 PMCID: PMC9769493 DOI: 10.1007/s42979-022-01492-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a consensus-based approach that incorporates three microarray and three RNA-Seq methods for unbiased and integrative identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) as potential biomarkers for critical disease(s). The proposed method performs satisfactorily on two microarray datasets (GSE20347 and GSE23400) and one RNA-Seq dataset (GSE130078) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Based on the input dataset, our framework employs specific DE methods to detect DEGs independently. A consensus based function that first considers DEGs common to all three methods for further downstream analysis has been introduced. The consensus function employs other parameters to overcome information loss. Differential co-expression (DCE) and preservation analysis of DEGs facilitates the study of behavioral changes in interactions among DEGs under normal and diseased circumstances. Considering hub genes in biologically relevant modules and most GO and pathway enriched DEGs as candidates for potential biomarkers of ESCC, we perform further validation through biological analysis as well as literature evidence. We have identified 25 DEGs that have strong biological relevance to their respective datasets and have previous literature establishing them as potential biomarkers for ESCC. We have further identified 8 additional DEGs as probable potential biomarkers for ESCC, but recommend further in-depth analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manaswita Saikia
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Tezpur University, Napaam, Tezpur, Assam 784028 India
| | - Dhruba K Bhattacharyya
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Tezpur University, Napaam, Tezpur, Assam 784028 India
| | - Jugal K Kalita
- Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 USA
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16
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Zhao X, Shu D, Sun W, Si S, Ran W, Guo B, Cui L. PLEK2 promotes cancer stemness and tumorigenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma via the c-Myc-mediated positive feedback loop. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:987-1007. [PMID: 36002342 PMCID: PMC9558684 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most frequent malignancies worldwide and is characterized by unfavorable prognosis, high lymph node metastasis and early recurrence. However, the molecular events regulating HNSCC tumorigenesis remain poorly understood. Therefore, uncovering the underlying mechanisms is urgently needed to identify novel and promising therapeutic targets for HNSCC. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of pleckstrin‐2 (PLEK2) in regulating HNSCC tumorigenesis. Methods The expression pattern of PLEK2 and its clinical significance in HNSCC were determined by analyzing publicly assessable datasets and our own independent HNSCC cohort. In vitro and in vivo experiments, including cell proliferation, colony formation, Matrigel invasion, tumor sphere formation, ALDEFLUOR, Western blotting assays and xenograft mouse models, were used to investigate the role of PLEK2 in regulating the malignant behaviors of HNSCC cells. The underlying molecular mechanisms for the tumor‐promoting role of PLEK2 were elucidated using co‐immunoprecipitation, cycloheximide chase analysis, ubiquitination assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction, luciferase reporter assays and rescue experiments. Results The expression levels of PLEK2 mRNA and protein were significantly increased in HNSCC tissues, and PLEK2 overexpression was strongly associated with poor overall survival and therapeutic resistance. Additionally, PLEK2 was important for maintaining the proliferation, invasion, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, cancer stemness and tumorigenesis of HNSCC cells and could alter the cellular metabolism of the cancer cells. Mechanistically, PLEK2 interacted with c‐Myc and reduced the association of F‐box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7) with c‐Myc, thereby avoiding ubiquitination and subsequent proteasome‐mediated degradation of c‐Myc. Moreover, the c‐Myc signaling activated by PLEK2 was important for sustaining the aggressive malignant phenotypes and tumorigenesis of HNSCC cells. c‐Myc also directly bounded to the PLEK2 promoter and activated its transcription, forming a positive feedback loop. Conclusions Collectively, these findings uncover a previously unknown molecular basis of PLEK2‐enhanced c‐Myc signaling in HNSCC, suggesting that PLEK2 may represent a promising therapeutic target for treating HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Zhao
- Department of Endodontics, Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510280, P. R. China
| | - Dalong Shu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P. R. China
| | - Wenjuan Sun
- Department of Stomatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, P. R. China
| | - Shanshan Si
- Department of Oral Emergency, Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510280, P. R. China
| | - Wei Ran
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P. R. China
| | - Bing Guo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P. R. China.,Department of Dentistry, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, P. R. China
| | - Li Cui
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510280, P. R. China.,Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
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17
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Huang W, Shang Q, Xiao X, Zhang H, Gu Y, Yang L, Shi G, Yang Y, Hu Y, Yuan Y, Ji A, Chen L. Raman spectroscopy and machine learning for the classification of esophageal squamous carcinoma. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART A-MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 281:121654. [PMID: 35878494 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Early diagnosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), a common malignant tumor with a low overall survival rate due to metastasis and recurrence, is critical for effective treatment and improved prognosis. Raman spectroscopy, an advanced detection technology for esophageal cancer, was developed to improve diagnosis sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. This study proposed a novel, effective, and noninvasive Raman spectroscopy technique to differentiate and classify ESCC cell lines. Seven ESCC cell lines and tissues of an ESCC patient with staging of T3N1M0 and T3N2M0 at low and high differentiation levels were investigated through Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectral data analysis was performed with four machine learning algorithms, namely principal components analysis (PCA)- linear discriminant analysis (LDA), PCA-eXtreme gradient boosting (XGB), PCA- support vector machine (SVM), and PCA- (LDA, XGB, SVM)-stacked Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM). Four machine learning algorithms were able to classifiy ESCC cell subtypes from normal esophageal cells. The PCA-XGB model achieved an overall predictive accuracy of 85% for classifying ESCC and adjacent tissues. Moreover, an overall predictive accuracy of 90.3% was achieved in distinguishing low differentiation and high differentiation ESCC tissues with the same stage when PCA-LDA, XGM, and SVM models were combined. This study illustrated the Raman spectral traits of ESCC cell lines and esophageal tissues related to clinical pathological diagnosis. Future studies should investigate the role of Raman spectral features in ESCC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qixin Shang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xin Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hanlu Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yimin Gu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guidong Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yushang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Aifang Ji
- Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical University, No. 161 Jiefang East Street, Changzhi 046000, China.
| | - Longqi Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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18
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Wang G, Zhou Q, Xu Y, Zhao B. Emerging Roles of Pleckstrin-2 Beyond Cell Spreading. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:768238. [PMID: 34869363 PMCID: PMC8637889 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.768238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pleckstrin-2 is a member of pleckstrin family with well-defined structural features that was first identified in 1999. Over the past 20 years, our understanding of PLEK2 biology has been limited to cell spreading. Recently, increasing evidences support that PLEK2 plays important roles in other cellular events beyond cell spreading, such as erythropoiesis, tumorigenesis and metastasis. It serves as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker as well as an attractive target for the treatment of cancers. Herein, we summary the protein structure and molecular interactions of pleckstrin-2, with an emphasis on its regulatory roles in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gengchen Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Baobing Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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