Fucosyltransferase 1 and 2 play pivotal roles in breast cancer cells

(Sialyl)Lewis Antigen Expression on Glycosphingolipids, N-, and O-Glycans in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines is Linked to a Colon-Like Differentiation Program

Alterations in the glycomic profile are a hallmark of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). While, the glycosylation of glycoproteins and glycolipids has been widely studied for CRC cell lines and tissues, a comprehensive overview of CRC glycomics is still lacking due to the usage of different samples and analytical methods. In this study, we compared glycosylation features of N-, O-glycans, and glycosphingolipid glycans for a set of 22 CRC cell lines, all measured by porous graphitized carbon nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. An overall, high abundance of (sialyl)Lewis antigens for colon-like cell lines was found, while undifferentiated cell lines showed high expression of H blood group antigens and α2-3/6 sialylation. Moreover, significant associations of glycosylation features were found between the three classes of glycans, such as (sialyl)Lewis and H blood group antigens. Integration of the datasets with transcriptomics data revealed positive correlations between (sialyl)Lewis antigens, the corresponding glycosyltransferase FUT3 and transcription factors CDX1, ETS, HNF1/4A, MECOM, and MYB. This indicates a possible role of these transcription factors in the upregulation of (sialyl)Lewis antigens, particularly on glycosphingolipid glycans, via FUT3/4 expression in colon-like cell lines. In conclusion, our study provides insights into the possible regulation of glycans in CRC and can serve as a guide for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers.

Exploring the diverse biological significance and roles of fucosylated oligosaccharides

Long since, carbohydrates were thought to be used just as an energy source and structural material. However, in recent years, with the emergence of the field of glycobiology and advances in glycomics, much has been learned about the biological role of oligosaccharides, a carbohydrate polymer containing a small number of monosaccharides, in cell-cell interaction, signal transduction, immune response, pathogen adhesion processes, early embryogenesis, and apoptosis. The function of oligosaccharides in these processes is diversified by fucosylation, also known as modification of oligosaccharides. Fucosylation has allowed the identification of more than 100 different oligosaccharide structures that provide functional diversity. ABO blood group and Lewis antigens are among the best known fucosyl-linked oligosaccharides. In addition, the antigens in the ABO system are composed of various sugar molecules, including fucosylated oligosaccharides, and Lewis antigens are structurally similar to ABO antigens but differ in the linkage of sugars. Variation in blood group antigen expression affects the host's susceptibility to many infections. However, altered expression of ABO and Lewis antigens is related with prognosis in carcinoma types. In addition, many pathogens recognize and bind to human tissues using a protein receptor with high affinity for the fucose molecule in glycoconjugates, such as lectin. Fucosylated oligosaccharides also play vital roles during fertilization and early embryogenesis. Learning and memory-related processes such as neurite growth, neurite migration, and synapse formation seen during the development of the brain, which is among the first organs to develop in embryogenesis, are regulated by fucosylated oligosaccharides. In conclusion, this review mentions the vital roles of fucosylated oligosaccharides in biology, drawing attention to their importance in the development of chemical tools to be used in function analysis and the investigation of various therapeutic targets.

Development and validation of glycosyltransferase related-gene for the diagnosis and prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly heterogeneous cancer characterized by difficulties in early diagnosis and outcome prediction. Aberrant glycosylated structures produced by the aberrant expression of glycosyltransferases are prevalent in HNSCC. In this study, we aim to construct glycosyltransferase-related gene signatures with diagnostic and prognostic value to better stratify patients with HNSCC and improve their diagnosis and prognosis.

METHODS

Bioinformatic tools were used to process data of patients with HNSCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The prognostic model was formatted using univariate and multivariate Cox regression methods, while the diagnostic signature was constructed using support vector machine (SVM) and LASSO analysis. The results were verified using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort. The tumor microenvironment and benefits of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in subgroups defined by glycosyltransferase-related genes were analyzed. Molecular biology experiments, including western blotting, cell counting kit (CCK)-8, colony formation, wound healing, and Transwell assays, were conducted to confirm the oncogenic function of beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase 3 (B4GALT3) in HNSCC.

RESULTS

We established a five-gene prognostic signature and a 15-gene diagnostic model. Based on the median risk score, patients with low risk had longer overall survival than those in the high-risk group, which was consistent with the results of the GEO cohort. The concrete results suggested that high-risk samples were related to a high tumor protein (TP)53 mutation rate, high infiltration of resting memory cluster of differentiation (CD)4 T cells, resting natural killer (NK) cells, and M0 macrophages, and benefited from ICI therapy. In contrast, the low-risk subgroup was associated with a low TP53 mutation rate; and high infiltration of naive B cells, plasma cells, CD8 T cells, and resting mast cells; and benefited less from ICI therapy. In addition, the diagnostic model had an area under curve (AUC) value of 0.997 and 0.978 in the training dataset and validation cohort, respectively, indicating the high diagnostic potential of the model. Ultimately, the depletion of B4GALT3 significantly hindered the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HNSCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

We established two new biomarkers that could provide clinicians with diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment guidance for patients with HNSCC.

The Influence of Race/Ethnicity on the Transcriptomic Landscape of Uterine Fibroids

The objective of this study was to determine if the aberrant expression of select genes could form the basis for the racial disparity in fibroid characteristics. The next-generation RNA sequencing results were analyzed as fold change [leiomyomas/paired myometrium, also known as differential expression (DF)], comparing specimens from White (n = 7) and Black (n = 12) patients. The analysis indicated that 95 genes were minimally changed in tumors from White (DF ≈ 1) but were significantly altered by more than 1.5-fold (up or down) in Black patients. Twenty-one novel genes were selected for confirmation in 69 paired fibroids by qRT-PCR. Among these 21, coding of transcripts for the differential expression of FRAT2, SOX4, TNFRSF19, ACP7, GRIP1, IRS4, PLEKHG4B, PGR, COL24A1, KRT17, MMP17, SLN, CCDC177, FUT2, MYO5B, MYOG, ZNF703, CDC25A, and CDCA7 was significantly higher, while the expression of DAB2 and CAV2 was significantly lower in tumors from Black or Hispanic patients compared with tumors from White patients. Western blot analysis revealed a greater differential expression of PGR-A and total progesterone (PGR-A and PGR-B) in tumors from Black compared with tumors from White patients. Collectively, we identified a set of genes uniquely expressed in a race/ethnicity-dependent manner, which could form the underlying mechanisms for the racial disparity in fibroids and their associated symptoms.

Investigation of the impact of Globo-H expression on the progression of gastric cancer

Globo-H (GH), a globo-series glycosphingolipid antigen that is synthesized by key enzymes β1,3-galactosyltransferase V (β3GalT5), fucosyltransferase (FUT) 1 and 2, is highly expressed on a variety of epithelial cancers rendering it a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. GH-targeting antibody-drug conjugate has been demonstrated an excellent tumor growth inhibition potency in animal models across multiple cancer types including Gastric cancer (GC). This study aims to further investigate the GH roles in GC. Significant correlations were observed between high mRNA expression of GH-synthetic key enzymes and worse overall survival (OS)/post-progression survival for GC patients based on the data from "Kaplan-Meier plotter" database (n=498). The level of GH expression was evaluated in clinical adenocarcinoma samples from 105 patients with GC by immunohistochemistry based on H-score. GH expression (H score ≥ 20; 33.3%) was significantly associated with a poor disease specific survival (DSS) and invasiveness in all samples with P=0.029 and P=0.013, respectively. In addition, it is also associated with shorter DSS and OS in poorly differentiated tumors with P=0.033 and P=0.045, respectively. Particularly, with patients ≥ 65 years of age, GH expression is also significantly associated with the stages (P=0.023), differentiation grade (P=0.038), and invasiveness (P=0.026) of the cancer. Sorted GC NCI-N87 cells with high level of endogenous GH showed higher proliferative activity compared with low-GH-expressing cells based on PCNA expression. Micro-western array analysis on high-GH-expressing GC cells indicated an upregulation in HER2-related signaling proteins including phospho-AKT/P38/JNK and Cyclin D1/Cyclin E1 proteins. Moreover, GH level was shown to be correlated with expression of total HER2 and caveolin-1 in GC cells. Immunoprecipitation study suggested that there are potential interactions among GH, caveolin-1, and HER2. In conclusions, GH level was significantly associated with the worse survival and disease progression in GC patients, especially in older patients. Enhanced cell proliferation activity through interactions among GH, HER2, and caveolin-1 interactions may contribute to GH induced tumor promotion signaling in GC. GH-targeting therapy may be a viable option for the treatment of GC patients.

Genome-wide Association Study of Bladder Cancer Reveals New Biological and Translational Insights

BACKGROUND

Genomic regions identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for bladder cancer risk provide new insights into etiology.

OBJECTIVE

To identify new susceptibility variants for bladder cancer in a meta-analysis of new and existing genome-wide genotype data.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Data from 32 studies that includes 13,790 bladder cancer cases and 343,502 controls of European ancestry were used for meta-analysis.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSES

Log-additive associations of genetic variants were assessed using logistic regression models. A fixed-effects model was used for meta-analysis of the results. Stratified analyses were conducted to evaluate effect modification by sex and smoking status. A polygenic risk score (PRS) was generated on the basis of known and novel susceptibility variants and tested for interaction with smoking.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Multiple novel bladder cancer susceptibility loci (6p.22.3, 7q36.3, 8q21.13, 9p21.3, 10q22.1, 19q13.33) as well as improved signals in three known regions (4p16.3, 5p15.33, 11p15.5) were identified, bringing the number of independent markers at genome-wide significance (p < 5 × 10-8) to 24. The 4p16.3 (FGFR3/TACC3) locus was associated with a stronger risk for women than for men (p-interaction = 0.002). Bladder cancer risk was increased by interactions between smoking status and genetic variants at 8p22 (NAT2; multiplicative p value for interaction [pM-I] = 0.004), 8q21.13 (PAG1; pM-I = 0.01), and 9p21.3 (LOC107987026/MTAP/CDKN2A; pM-I = 0.02). The PRS based on the 24 independent GWAS markers (odds ratio per standard deviation increase 1.49, 95% confidence interval 1.44-1.53), which also showed comparable results in two prospective cohorts (UK Biobank, PLCO trial), revealed an approximately fourfold difference in the lifetime risk of bladder cancer according to the PRS (e.g., 1st vs 10th decile) for both smokers and nonsmokers.

CONCLUSIONS

We report novel loci associated with risk of bladder cancer that provide clues to its biological underpinnings. Using 24 independent markers, we constructed a PRS to stratify lifetime risk. The PRS combined with smoking history, and other established risk factors, has the potential to inform future screening efforts for bladder cancer.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We identified new genetic markers that provide biological insights into the genetic causes of bladder cancer. These genetic risk factors combined with lifestyle risk factors, such as smoking, may inform future preventive and screening strategies for bladder cancer.

Abnormal glycosylation in glioma: related changes in biology, biomarkers and targeted therapy

Glioma is a rapidly growing and aggressive primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system that can diffusely invade the brain tissue around, and the prognosis of patients is not significantly improved by traditional treatments. One of the most general posttranslational modifications of proteins is glycosylation, and the abnormal distribution of this modification in gliomas may shed light on how it affects biological behaviors of glioma cells, including proliferation, migration, and invasion, which may be produced by regulating protein function, cell-matrix and cell‒cell interactions, and affecting receptor downstream pathways. In this paper, from the perspective of regulating protein glycosylation changes and abnormal expression of glycosylation-related proteins (such as glycosyltransferases in gliomas), we summarize how glycosylation may play a crucial role in the discovery of novel biomarkers and new targeted treatment options for gliomas. Overall, the mechanistic basis of abnormal glycosylation affecting glioma progression remains to be more widely and deeply explored, which not only helps to inspire researchers to further explore related diagnostic and prognostic markers but also provides ideas for discovering effective treatment strategies and improving glioma patient survival and prognosis.

FUT2 inhibits the EMT and metastasis of colorectal cancer by increasing LRP1 fucosylation

BACKGROUND

Fucosyltransferase 2(FUT2) and its induced α-1,2 fucosylation is associated with cancer metastasis. However, the role of FUT2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis remains unclear.

METHODS

The expression levels and clinical analyses of FUT2 were assessed in CRC samples. Migration and invasion assays, EMT detection, nude mice peritoneal dissemination models and intestinal specific FUT2 knockout mice (FUT2^△IEC mice) were used to investigate the effect of FUT2 on metastasis in colorectal cancer. Quantitative proteomics study of glycosylated protein, UEA enrichment, Co-immunoprecipitation identified the mediator of the invasive-inhibiting effects of FUT2.

RESULTS

FUT2 is downregulated in CRC tissues and is positively correlated with the survival of CRC patients. FUT2 is an inhibitor of colorectal cancer metastasis which, when overexpressed, suppresses invasion and tumor dissemination in vitro and in vivo. FUT2 knock-out mice (FUT2^△IEC mice) develop AMO and DSS-induced tumors and promote EMT in colorectal cancers. FUT2-induced α-1,2 fucosylation impacts the ability of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1) to suppress colorectal cancer invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that FUT2 induces α-1,2 fucosylation and inhibits EMT and metastasis of colorectal cancer through LRP1 fucosylation, suggesting that FUT2 may serve as a therapeutic target for colorectal cancer. Video Abstract.

Lewis x-carrying O-glycans are candidate modulators for conceptus attachment in pigs†

Successful attachment of conceptus to the uterine luminal epithelium (LE) is crucial for establishing a functional placenta in pigs. However, the underlying mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. The uterine LE-conceptus interface is enriched in various glycoconjugates essential to implantation. Using MALDI-MS profiling, we identified for the first time the O-glycan repertoire of pig endometrium during the conceptus attachment stage. The expression pattern of blood group A, O(H), Lewis x, y, a, b (Lex, Ley, Lea, and Leb), the sialylated and sulfated Lex antigens in the uterine LE-conceptus interface was assessed using immunofluorescence assays. Notably, the Lex-carrying O-glycans exhibited a temporal-spatial expression pattern. They were absent in the endometrium on estrous cycle days but strongly and spatially presented in the conceptus and uterine LE to which the conceptus apposes during the early conceptus attachment stage. In addition, Lex-carrying O-glycans were co-localized with secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), a well-characterized factor that plays a role in promoting conceptus attachment through interacting with integrin αVβ3 and integrin αVβ6. Meanwhile, the immunoprecipitation assays revealed an interaction between the Lex-carrying O-glycans and SPP1, integrin αV, and integrin β6. Furthermore, we provided evidence that the β1,4-galactosyltransferase 1 (B4GALT1) gene is a potential regulator for Lex antigen expression in the uterine LE-conceptus interface during the early conceptus attachment stage. In conclusion, our findings show that Lex-carrying O-glycans, presumably dependent on B4GALT1 gene expression, might modulate conceptus attachment by interacting with the SPP1-integrin receptor complex in pigs.

Intestinal epithelium-specific Fut2 deficiency promotes colorectal cancer through down-regulating fucosylation of MCAM

BACKGROUND

Our previous study showed that fucosyltransferase 2 (Fut2) deficiency is closely related to colitis. Colitis increases the risk for the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of action of Fut2 in CRC.

METHODS

Intestinal epithelium-specific Fut2 knockout (Fut2^△IEC) mice were used in this study. CRC was induced using azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Immunofluorescence was used to examine the fucosylation levels. Proteomics and N-glycoproteomics analyses, Ulex Europaeus Agglutinin I (UEA-I) affinity chromatography, immunoprecipitation, and rescue assay were used to investigate the mechanism of Fut2 in CRC.

RESULTS

The expression of Fut2 and α-1,2-fucosylation was lower in colorectal tumor tissues than in the adjacent normal tissues of AOM/DSS-induced CRC mice. More colorectal tumors were detected in Fut2^△IEC mice than in control mice, and significant downregulation of melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM) fucosylation was detected in the colorectal tumor tissues of Fut2^△IEC mice. Overexpression of Fut2 inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and tumor metastasis in vivo and in vitro in SW480 and HCT116 cells. Moreover, fucosylation of MCAM may be a mediator of Fut2 in CRC. Peracetylated 2-F-Fuc, a fucosyltransferase inhibitor, repressed fucosylation modification of MCAM and reversed the inhibitory effects of Fut2 overexpression on SW480 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Our results indicate that Fut2 deficiency in the intestinal epithelium promotes CRC by downregulating the fucosylation of MCAM.

CONCLUSIONS

The regulation of fucosylation may be an potential therapy for CRC, especially in patients with Fut2 gene defects.

FUT2 promotes the tumorigenicity and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells via the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC), a leading cause of cancer‑related mortality, has increased globally. Fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2), catalyzing the α1, 2‑linked fucose in mammals, has been reported to be overexpressed in several malignant cancers, including CRC. However, the effects of FUT2 on CRC remain largely unknown. Herein, it was determined that the FUT2 expression levels in CRC tissues were higher than those in adjacent non‑tumor tissues, whereas no association with tumor stage was revealed. The results of biological functional analysis revealed that FUT2 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of human CRC cells. Moreover, the knockdown of FUT2 arrested the CRC cells at the G0/G1 phase and promoted the apoptosis of human CRC cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the expression levels of β‑catenin, C‑myc and cyclin D1 were decreased by FUT2 knockdown in CRC cells, whereas the expression of glycogen synthase kinase‑3β and the phosphorylation levels of β‑catenin were increased. Additionally, Wnt2 was fucosylated by FUT2 in CRC cells. Furthermore, the knockdown of FUT2 inhibited the growth of human CRC in vivo. Overall, the findings of the present study suggest that FUT2 may be used as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for CRC treatment.

Therapeutic potential of fucosyltransferases in cancer and recent development of targeted inhibitors

Fucosyltransferases (FUTs) have significant roles in various pathophysiological events. Their high expression is a signature of malignant cell transformation, contributing to many abnormal events during cancer development, such as uncontrolled cell proliferation, tumor cell invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. Therefore, FUTs have evolved as an attractive therapeutic target for treating solid cancers, and many substrate analogs have been discovered with potential as FUT inhibitors for cancer therapy. Meanwhile, the development of FUT protein structures represents a significant advance in the design of FUT inhibitors with nonsubstrate structures. In this review, we summarize the role of FUTs in cancers, the resolved protein crystal structures and progress in the development of FUT inhibitors as cancer therapeutics.

Glycosylation Alterations in Cancer Cells, Prognostic Value of Glycan Biomarkers and Their Potential as Novel Therapeutic Targets in Breast Cancer

Although we are lately witnessing major improvements in breast cancer treatment and patient outcomes, there is still a significant proportion of patients not receiving efficient therapy. More precisely, patients with triple-negative breast cancer or any type of metastatic disease. Currently available prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers are not always applicable and oftentimes lack precision. The science of glycans is a relatively new scientific approach to better characterize malignant transformation and tumor progression. In this review, we summarize the most important information about glycosylation characteristics in breast cancer cells and how different glycoproteins and enzymes involved in glycosylation could serve as more precise biomarkers, as well as new therapeutic targets.

FUT2 Facilitates Autophagy and Suppresses Apoptosis via p53 and JNK Signaling in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells

Lung cancer is the most common cancer with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Our previous studies showed that fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) is highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and plays a vital role in the tumorigenesis of LUAD. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Autophagy has recently attracted increasing attention due to its pro-survival role in cancer progression and metastasis. Here, we found that FUT2 was up-regulated and had an AUC (Area Under Curve) value of 0.964 in lung adenocarcinoma based on the TCGA dataset. Knockdown of FUT2 weakened the autophagy response, as evidenced by a degradation of LC3-II and Beclin1. The phosphorylation levels of AMPK, ULK1, and PI3K III were significantly reduced by FUT2 knockdown. FUT2 promoted the translocation of p53 from the cytoplasm into the nucleus, which triggered the DRAM1 pathway and enhanced autophagy. Meanwhile, the knockdown of FUT2 increased the phosphorylation of JNK and promoted mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, the knockdown of FUT2 inhibited the autophagy induced by Z-VAD-FMK and promoted the apoptosis suppressed by rapamycin. The autophagy and apoptosis regulated by FUT2 antagonized each other. Taken together, these findings provide a mechanistic understanding of how FUT2 mediated the crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis, which determine lung cancer cell death and survival, leading to the progression of lung adenocarcinoma.

A Glycosyltransferase-Related Signature for Predicting Overall Survival in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Background: Here, we establish a prognostic signature based on glycosyltransferase-related genes (GTRGs) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients.

Methods: The prognostic signature of GTRGs was constructed via univariate and multivariate Cox analyses after obtaining the expression patterns of GTRGs from the TCGA. A nomogram based on the signature and clinical parameters was established to predict the survival of each HNSCC patient. Potential mechanisms were explored through gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, immunotherapy, and tumor mutational burden (TMB) analyses. The expression differences and prognostic efficacy of the signature were verified through the gene expression omnibus (GEO) and several online databases.

Results: The prognostic signature was constructed based on five glycosyltransferases (PYGL, ALG3, EXT2, FUT2, and KDELC1) and validated in the GSE65858 dataset. The pathways enriched in the high- and low-risk groups were significantly different. The high-risk group had higher tumor purity; lower infiltration of immune cells, such as CD8⁺ T cells and Tregs; higher cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) infiltration; lower immune function; and lower checkpoint expression. The signature can also be applied to distinguish whether patients benefit from immunotherapy. In addition, the high-risk group had a higher TMB and more gene mutations, including those in TP53, CSMD1, CDKN2A, and MUC17.

Conclusion: We propose a prognostic signature based on glycosyltransferases for HNSCC patients that may provide potential targets and biomarkers for the precise treatment of HNSCC.

Abnormal sialylation and fucosylation of saliva glycoproteins: Characteristics of lung cancer-specific biomarkers

Dysregulated surface glycoproteins play an important role in tumor cell proliferation and progression. Abnormal glycosylation of these glycoproteins may activate tumor signal transduction and lead to tumor development. The tumor microenvironment alters its molecular composition, some of which regulate protein glycosylation biosynthesis. The glycosylation of saliva proteins in lung cancer patients is different from healthy controls, in which the glycans of cancer patients are highly sialylated and hyperfucosylated. Most studies have shown that O-glycans from cancer are truncated O-glycans, while N-glycans contain fucoses and sialic acids. Because glycosylation analysis is challenging, there are few reports on how glycosylation of saliva proteins is related to the occurrence or progression of lung cancer. In this review, we discussed glycoenzymes involved in protein glycosylation, their changes in tumor microenvironment, potential tumor biomarkers present in body fluids, and abnormal glycosylation of saliva or lung glycoproteins. We further explored the effect of glycosylation changes on tumor signal transduction, and emphasized the role of receptor tyrosine kinases in tumorigenesis and metastasis.

Fucosylation in Urological Cancers

Fucosylation is an oligosaccharide modification that plays an important role in immune response and malignancy, and specific fucosyltransferases (FUTs) catalyze the three types of fucosylations: core-type, Lewis type, and H type. FUTs regulate cancer proliferation, invasiveness, and resistance to chemotherapy by modifying the glycosylation of signaling receptors. Oligosaccharides on PD-1/PD-L1 proteins are specifically fucosylated, leading to functional modifications. Expression of FUTs is upregulated in renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer. Aberrant fucosylation in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) could be used as a novel biomarker for prostate cancer. Furthermore, elucidation of the biological function of fucosylation could result in the development of novel therapeutic targets. Further studies are needed in the field of fucosylation glycobiology in urological malignancies.

Clinical importance of high-mannose, fucosylated and complex N-glycans in breast cancermetastasis

BACKGROUND. Although aberrant glycosylation is recognized as a hallmark of cancer, glycosylation in clinical breast cancer (BC) metastasis has not yet been studied. While preclinical studies show that the glycocalyx coating of cancer cells is involved in adhesion, migration, and metastasis, glycosylation changes from primary tumor (PT) to various metastatic sites remain unknown in patients.

METHODS. We investigated N-glycosylation profiles in 17 metastatic BC patients from our rapid autopsy program. Primary breast tumor, lymph node metastases, multiple systemic metastases, and various normal tissue cores from each patient were arranged on unique single-patient tissue microarrays (TMAs). We performed mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) combined with extensive pathology annotation of these TMAs, and this process enabled spatially differentiated cell-based analysis of N-glycosylation patterns in metastatic BC.

RESULTS. N-glycan abundance increased during metastatic progression independently of BC subtype and treatment regimen, with high-mannose glycans most frequently elevated in BC metastases, followed by fucosylated and complex glycans. Bone metastasis, however, displayed increased core-fucosylation and decreased high-mannose glycans. Consistently, N-glycosylated proteins and N-glycan biosynthesis genes were differentially expressed during metastatic BC progression, with reduced expression of mannose-trimming enzymes and with elevated EpCAM, N-glycan branching, and sialyation enzymes in BC metastases versus PT.

CONCLUSION. We show in patients that N-glycosylation of breast cancer cells undergoing metastasis occurs in a metastatic site–specific manner, supporting the clinical importance of high-mannose, fucosylated, and complex N-glycans as future diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in metastatic BC.

FUNDING. NIH grants R01CA213428, R01CA213492, R01CA264901, T32CA193145, Dutch Province Limburg “LINK”, European Union ERA-NET TRANSCAN2-643638.

High-Risk HPV16 E6 Activates the cGMP/PKG Pathway Through Glycosyltransferase ST6GAL1 in Cervical Cancer Cells

Alterations in glycosylation regulate fundamental molecular and cellular processes of cancer, serving as important biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, the potential association and regulatory mechanisms of E6 oncoprotein on glycosylation of cervical cancer cells are still unclear. Here, we evaluated the glycomic changes via using Lectin microarray and determined the corresponding enzymes associated with endogenous high-risk HPV16 E6 expression in cervical cancer cells. α-2,6 sialic acids and the corresponding glycosyltransferase ST6GAL1 were significantly increased in E6 stable-expressing HPV- cervical cancer C33A cells. Clinical validation further showed that the expression of ST6GAL1 was significantly increased in patients infected with high-risk HPV subtypes and showed a positive association with E6 in cervical scraping samples. Interfering ST6GAL1 expression markedly blocked the oncogenic effects of E6 on colony formulation, proliferation, and metastasis. Importantly, ST6GAL1 overexpression enhanced tumorigenic activities of both E6-positive and E6-negative cells. Mechanistical investigations revealed that E6 depended on activating YAP1 to stimulate ST6GAL1 expression, as verteporfin (inhibitor of YAP1) significantly suppressed the E6-induced ST6GAL1 upregulation. E6/ST6GAL1 triggered the activation of downstream cGMP/PKG signaling pathway and ODQ (inhibitor of GMP production) simultaneously suppressed the oncogenic activities of both E6 and ST6GAL1 in cervical cancer cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that ST6GAL1 is an important mediator for oncogenic E6 protein to activate the downstream cGMP/PKG signaling pathway, which represents a novel molecular mechanism and potential therapeutic targets for cervical cancer.

Altered gut microbiome in FUT2 loss-of-function mutants in support of personalized medicine for inflammatory bowel diseases

The FUT2 loss-of-function mutations are highly prevalent and are associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To investigate the impact of FUT2 loss-of-function mutation on the gut microbiota in patients with IBD, 81 endoscopically confirmed IBD patients were genotyped and divided into 3 groups: homozygous for functional FUT2 genes (SeSe), with one copy of non-functional FUT2 gene (Sese), or homozygous for non-functional FUT2 genes (sese). Escherichia, which attaches to fucosylated glycoconjugates, was the only abundant genus exhibiting decreased abundance in sese patients. Compared with SeSe or Sese patients, sese patients exhibited higher abundance in CD8+ inducing Alistipe and Phascolarctobacterium and Th17 inducing Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003. Counter-intuitively, butyrate-producing bacteria were more abundant in sese patients. Consistently, metabolomics analysis found higher levels of butyrate in sese patients. Our data support the hypothesis that FUT2 loss-of-function mutation participates in the IBD pathogenesis by decreasing binding sites for adherent bacteria and thus altering the gut microbiota. Decreased abundances of adherent bacteria may allow the overgrowth of bacteria that induce inflammatory T cells, leading to intestinal inflammation. As FUT2 loss-of-function mutations are highly prevalent, the identification of T cell inducing bacteria in sese patients could be valuable for the development of personalized microbial intervention for IBD.

Carcinoembryonic antigen as a specific glycoprotein ligand of rBC2LCN lectin on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells

The rBC2LCN lectin, known as a stem cell marker probe that binds to an H type 3 fucosylated trisaccharide motif, was recently revealed to also bind to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. A lectin‐drug conjugate was generated by fusing rBC2LCN with a cytocidal toxin, and it showed a strong anticancer effect in in vitro and in vivo PDAC models. However, it is unclear which molecules are carrier proteins of rBC2LCN on PDAC cells. In this study, we identified a rBC2LCN‐positive glycoprotein expressed in PDAC. Tumor lysates of PDAC patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) were coprecipitated with rBC2LCN lectin and analyzed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. A total of 343 proteins were initially identified. We used a web‐based database to select five glycoproteins and independently evaluated their expression in PDAC by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Among them, we focused on carcinoembryonic antigen 5 (CEA) as the most cancer‐specific carrier protein in PDAC, as it showed the most prominent difference in expression rate between PDAC cells (74%) and normal pancreatic duct cells (0%, P > .0001). rBC2LCN lectin and CEA colocalization in PDAC samples was confirmed by double‐staining analysis. Furthermore, rBC2LCN‐precipitated fractions were blotted with an anti‐CEA polyclonal antibody (pAb), and CEA pAb–precipitated fractions were blotted with rBC2LCN lectin. The results demonstrate that CEA is in fact a ligand of rBC2LCN lectin.

The Role of Glycosyltransferases in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the main causes of cancer death in the world. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) have been extensively studied in malignancies due to its relevance in tumor pathogenesis and therapy. This review is focused on the dysregulation of glycosyltransferase expression in CRC and its impact in cell function and in several biological pathways associated with CRC pathogenesis, prognosis and therapeutic approaches. Glycan structures act as interface molecules between cells and their environment and in several cases facilitate molecule function. CRC tissue shows alterations in glycan structures decorating molecules, such as annexin-1, mucins, heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), β1 integrin, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) receptors, Fas (CD95), PD-L1, decorin, sorbin and SH3 domain-containing protein 1 (SORBS1), CD147 and glycosphingolipids. All of these are described as key molecules in oncogenesis and metastasis. Therefore, glycosylation in CRC can affect cell migration, cell–cell adhesion, actin polymerization, mitosis, cell membrane repair, apoptosis, cell differentiation, stemness regulation, intestinal mucosal barrier integrity, immune system regulation, T cell polarization and gut microbiota composition; all such functions are associated with the prognosis and evolution of the disease. According to these findings, multiple strategies have been evaluated to alter oligosaccharide processing and to modify glycoconjugate structures in order to control CRC progression and prevent metastasis. Additionally, immunotherapy approaches have contemplated the use of neo-antigens, generated by altered glycosylation, as targets for tumor-specific T cells or engineered CAR (Chimeric antigen receptors) T cells.

The predictive prognostic values of CBFA2T3, STX3, DENR, EGLN1, FUT4, and PCDH7 in lung cancer

Background

Lung cancer is one of the most malignant tumors. However, neither the pathogenesis of lung cancer nor the prognosis markers are completely clear. The purpose of this study is to screen the diagnostic or prognostic markers of lung cancer.

Methods

TCGA and GEO datasets were used to analyze the relationship between lung cancer-related genes and lung cancer samples. Common differential genes were screened, and a univariate Cox regression analysis was used to screen survival related genes. A univariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to verify the genes and construct risk model. The key factors affecting the prognosis of lung cancer were determined by univariate and multivariate regression analyses. The ROC curve, AUC and the survival of each risk gene was analyzed. Finally, the biological functions of high- and low-risk patients were explored by GSEA and an immune-infiltration analysis.

Results

Based on the common differential genes, 13 genes significantly related to lung cancer survival were identified. Eight risk genes (CBFA2T3, DENR, EGLN1, FUT2, FUT4, PCDH7, PHF14, and STX3) were screened out. The results showed that risk status may be an independent prognostic factor, and the risk score predicted the prognosis of lung cancer. CBFA2T3 and STX3 are protective genes, while DENR, EGLN1, FUT4 and PCDH7 are dangerous genes. These 6 genes can be used as independent lung cancer prognosis markers. The corresponding biological functions of genes expressed in high-risk patients were mostly related to tumor proliferation and inflammatory infiltration. Neutrophil, CD8⁺T, Macrophage M0, Macrophage M1- and mDC-activated cells were high in high-risk status samples.

Conclusions

CBFA2T3, STX3, DENR, EGLN1, FUT4, and PCDH7 are important participants in the occurrence and development of lung cancer. High-risk patients display serious inflammatory infiltration. This study not only provides insight into the mechanism of occurrence and development of lung cancer, but also provides potential targets for targeted therapy of lung cancer.

Circular RNA CSNK1G1 promotes the progression of osteoarthritis by targeting the miR‑4428/FUT2 axis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease that results in chronic arthralgia and functional disability of the affected joint. To date, there is no effective treatment available for this disease. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of intracellular stable RNA that can regulate the development and progression of OA. However, the function of circCSNK1G1 in OA has not yet been investigated. In the present study, it was found that circCSNK1G1 was upregulated in OA cartilage tissues. The upregulation of circCSNK1G1 was associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and chondrocyte apoptosis. Moreover, the expression of miR‑4428 was downregulated and that of fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) was upregulated in OA‑affected cartilage tissues. Dual‑luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation confirmed that miR‑4428 targeted FUT2 mRNA to inhibit FUT2 expression. circCSNK1G1 and FUT2 induced ECM degradation and chondrocyte apoptosis. The negative effects of circCSNK1G1 and FUT2 were reversed by miR‑4428. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that circCSNK1G1 promotes the development of OA by targeting the miR‑4428/FUT2 axis. Thus, the circCSNK1G1/miR‑4428/FUT2 axis may present a novel target for the treatment of OA in the clinical setting.

Quantitative structural analysis of glycans expressed within tumors derived from pancreatic cancer patient-derived xenograft mouse models

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an intractable malignancy for which novel therapeutic targets are in high demand. To uncover glycans expressed within PDAC, we previously performed glycome profiling of PDAC cell lines using lectin microarray and found that the lectin rBC2LCN with specificity to a Fucα1-2Galβ1-3 motif exhibited strong binding to a PDAC cell line (Capan-1) and to all tumor tissues derived from 69 pancreatic cancer patients. Nevertheless, no information was available as to whether glycans containing the Fucα1-2Galβ1-3 motif are expressed within PDAC. Here we used HPLC combined with MALDI-TOFMS to perform a structural and quantitative glycome analysis targeting both N- and O-glycans derived from two types of patient-derived PDAC xenograft mouse models, PC3 (well-differentiated) and PC42 (poorly-differentiated). A higher percentage of highly branched and sialylated complex-type N-glycans was detected in PC42 relative to PC3. The percentage of core 1 O-glycans was higher in PC42 relative to PC3, whereas that of core 3 O-glycans was higher in PC3. Cancer-related glycan epitopes such as Lewis A and Lewis Y were detected in core 3 O-glycans of both PC3 and PC42. H-type3 containing the Fucα1-2Galβ1-3 motif was detected in Core 2 O-glycans in both models, explaining the molecular mechanism of the binding of rBC2LCN to PDAC.

Altered glycosylation in cancer: A promising target for biomarkers and therapeutics

Glycosylation is a well-regulated cell and microenvironment specific post-translational modification. Several glycosyltransferases and glycosidases orchestrate the addition of defined glycan structures on the proteins and lipids. Recent advances and systemic approaches in glycomics have significantly contributed to a better understanding of instrumental roles of glycans in health and diseases. Emerging research evidence recognized aberrantly glycosylated proteins as the modulators of the malignant phenotype of cancer cells. The Cancer Genome Atlas has identified alterations in the expressions of glycosylation-specific genes that are correlated with cancer progression. However, the mechanistic basis remains poorly explored. Recent researches have shown that specific changes in the glycan structures are associated with 'stemness' and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of cancer cells. Moreover, epigenetic changes in the glycosylation pattern make the tumor cells capable of escaping immunosurveillance mechanisms. The deciphering roles of glycans in cancer emphasize that glycans can serve as a source for the development of novel clinical biomarkers. The ability of glycans in intervening various stages of tumor progression and the biosynthetic pathways involved in glycan structures constitute a promising target for cancer therapy. Advances in the knowledge of innovative strategies for identifying the mechanisms of glycan-binding proteins are hoped to hold great potential in cancer therapy. This review discusses the fundamental role of glycans in regulating tumorigenesis and tumor progression and provides insights into the influence of glycans in the current tactics of targeted therapies in the clinical setting.

TUG1 knockdown promoted viability and inhibited apoptosis and cartilage ECM degradation in chondrocytes via the miR-17-5p/FUT1 pathway in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease characterized by cartilage destruction. Previous research has demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs serve a role in OA progression. The current study aimed to determine the function and mechanism of taurine upregulated gene (TUG) 1 in OA. The results of reverse transcription quantitative PCR revealed that TUG1 was elevated in OA cartilage tissues and interleukin (IL)-1β-induced chondrocytes. Cell Counting kit-8 and flow cytometry analysis revealed that TUG1 knockdown promoted cell viability and inhibited cell apoptosis. Furthermore, matrix metalloprotein (MMP) 13, collagen II and aggrecan expression was determined by western blotting, of which the results demonstrated that TUG1 knockdown significantly decreased MMP13 expression and increased collagen II and aggrecan expression in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes, indicating that extracellular matrix (ECM) damage was inhibited. Additionally, using bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays, TUG1 was revealed to upregulate fucosyltransferase (FUT) 1 by targeting miR-17-5p. Furthermore, miR-17-5p was downregulated and FUT1 upregulated in OA cartilage tissues and IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. TUG1 overexpression reversed the aforementioned effects on cell viability, cell apoptosis and ECM degradation mediated by miR-17-5p in IL-1β-activated chondrocytes. Additionally, the effects of FUT1 knockdown on cell viability, apoptosis and ECM degradation mediated by FUT1 knockdown were reversed by miR-17-5p inhibition. In conclusion, TUG1 knockdown inhibited OA progression by downregulating FUT1 via miR-17-5p.

rBC2LCN lectin as a potential probe of early-stage HER2-positive breast carcinoma

The recombinant N‐terminal domain of BC2L‐C lectin (rBC2LCN) is useful for detecting not only human pluripotent stem cells but also some cancers. However, the cancer types and stages that can be detected by rBC2LCN remain unclear. In this study, we identified the human breast carcinoma subtypes and stages that can be detected by rBC2LCN. Compared with rBC2LCN‐negative breast carcinoma cell lines, the rBC2LCN‐positive cells expressed higher levels of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and epithelial marker genes. Importantly, rBC2LCN histochemical staining of human breast carcinoma tissues demonstrated the utility of rBC2LCN in detecting breast carcinoma types that express HER2 and have not spread much in the early phase of growth. We conclude that rBC2LCN may have potential as a detection probe and a drug delivery vehicle to identify and treat early‐stage HER2‐positive breast carcinoma.

MALDI-2 Mass Spectrometry and Immunohistochemistry Imaging of Gb3Cer, Gb4Cer, and Further Glycosphingolipids in Human Colorectal Cancer Tissue

The main cellular receptors of Shiga toxins (Stxs), the neutral glycosphingolipids (GSLs), globotriaosylceramide (Gb3Cer/CD77) and globotetraosylceramide (Gb4Cer), are significantly upregulated in about half of the human colorectal carcinomas (CRC) and in other cancers. Therefore, conjugates exploiting the Gb3Cer/Gb4Cer-binding B subunit of Stx (StxB) have attracted great interest for both diagnostic and adjuvant therapeutic interventions. Moreover, fucosylated GSLs were recognized as potential tumor-associated targets. One obstacle to a broader use of these receptor/ligand systems is that the contribution of specific GSLs to tumorigenesis, in particular, in the context of an altered lipid metabolism, is only poorly understood. A second is that also nondiseased organs (e.g., kidney) and blood vessels can express high levels of certain GSLs, not least Gb3Cer/Gb4Cer. Here, we used, in a proof-of-concept study, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging combined with laser-induced postionization (MALDI-2-MSI) to simultaneously visualize the distribution of several Gb3Cer/Gb4Cer lipoforms and those of related GSLs (e.g., Gb3Cer/Gb4Cer precursors and fucosylated GSLs) in tissue biopsies from three CRC patients. Using MALDI-2 and StxB-based immunofluorescence microscopy, Gb3Cer and Gb4Cer were mainly found in dedifferentiated tumor cell areas, tumor stroma, and tumor-infiltrating blood vessels. Notably, fucosylated GSL such as Fuc-(n)Lc4Cer generally showed a highly localized expression in dysplastic glands and indian file-like cells infiltrating adipose tissue. Our "molecular histology" approach could support stratifying patients for intratumoral GSL expression to identify an optimal therapeutic strategy. The improved chemical coverage by MALDI-2 can also help to improve our understanding of the molecular basis of tumor development and GSL metabolism.

FUT1 deficiency elicits immune dysregulation and corneal opacity in steady state and under stress

Fucosylation is a biological process that plays a critical role in multiple cellular functions from cell adhesion to immune regulation. Fucosyltransferases (FUTs) mediate fucosylation, and dysregulation of genes encoding FUTs is associated with various diseases. FUT1 and its fucosylated products are expressed in the ocular surface and ocular adnexa; however, the role of FUT1 in the ocular surface health and disease is yet unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of FUT1 on the ocular surface in steady-state conditions with age and under desiccating stress using a Fut1 knockout (KO) mouse model. We found that corneal epithelial defects and stromal opacity developed in Fut1 KO mice. Also, inflammatory responses in the ocular surface and Th1 cell activation in ocular draining lymph nodes (DLNs) were upregulated. Desiccating stress further aggravated Th1 cell-mediated immune responses in DLNs, lacrimal gland, and ocular surface in Fut1 KO mice, leading to severe corneal epithelial disruption and opacity. Mixed lymphocyte reaction assays revealed that the activity of splenocytes to stimulate CD4 T-cell proliferation was increased in Fut1 KO mice. Together, these data demonstrate that FUT1 deficiency induces immune dysregulation in the ocular surface and corneal opacity in steady state and under desiccating stress.

Upregulation of Fucosyltransferase 3, 8 and protein O-Fucosyltransferase 1, 2 genes in esophageal cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs)

Recently, studies have shown that Fucosylation plays an important role in the invasion and metastatic process of CSLCs. Understanding the expression pattern of fucosyltransferase (FUT) genes may help to suggest better-targeted therapy strategies for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The study aimed to address the expression pattern of FUT gene variants in esophageal CSLCs and parental adherent cells. Sphere formation method was used to enrich CSLCs. Expression of FUT genes was examined in tumor sphere and parental adherent cells using the RT-PCR method and then relative expression of detected variants was performed by the Real-Time PCR method in both groups. The detected FUTs, also, were assessed in fresh ESCC tumors and the matched healthy controls. Analysis of The cell surface carbohydrate Lewis x (LeX, CD15) was performed by flow cytometry. Molecular analysis showed that the expression of FUT 3, 8 and POFUT1, 2 genes in tumorsphere were significantly higher than parental adherent cells. Analysis of fresh ESCC tumor tissues and the matched healthy controls showed that FUT8 and POFUT1, 2 genes in contrast to FUT 3 have higher expression in tumor tissues than controls. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that tumorsphere and their parent cells do not differ significantly in Lewis x surface marker. The present study showed that FUT 3, 8 and POFUT1, 2 genes upregulated in esophageal CSLCs in comparison to adherent cells. Understanding the expression pattern of FUT gene variants may help to suggest better-targeted therapy strategies for ESCC.

BC2L-C N-Terminal Lectin Domain Complexed with Histo Blood Group Oligosaccharides Provides New Structural Information

Lectins mediate adhesion of pathogens to host tissues, filling in a key role in the first steps of infection. Belonging to the opportunistic pathogen Burkholderia cenocepacia, BC2L-C is a superlectin with dual carbohydrate specificity, believed to mediate cross-linking between bacteria and host cells. Its C-terminal domain binds to bacterial mannosides while its N-terminal domain (BCL2-CN) recognizes fucosylated human epitopes. BC2L-CN presents a tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-) fold previously unseen in lectins with a novel fucose binding mode. We report, here, the production of a novel recombinant form of BC2L-CN (rBC2L-CN2), which allowed better protein stability and unprecedented co-crystallization with oligosaccharides. Isothermal calorimetry measurements showed no detrimental effect on ligand binding and data were obtained on the binding of Globo H hexasaccharide and l-galactose. Crystal structures of rBC2L-CN2 were solved in complex with two blood group antigens: H-type 1 and H-type 3 (Globo H) by X-ray crystallography. They provide new structural information on the binding site, of importance for the structural-based design of glycodrugs as new antimicrobials with antiadhesive properties.

Single xenotransplant of rat brown adipose tissue prolonged the ovarian lifespan of aging mice by improving follicle survival

Prolonging the ovarian lifespan is attractive and challenging. An optimal clinical strategy must be safe, long-acting, simple, and economical. Allotransplantation of brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is most abundant and robust in infants, has been utilized to treat various mouse models of human disease. Could we use BAT to prolong the ovarian lifespan of aging mice? Could we try BAT xenotransplantation to alleviate the clinical need for allogeneic BAT due to the lack of voluntary infant donors? In the current study, we found that a single rat-to-mouse (RTM) BAT xenotransplantation did not cause systemic immune rejection but did significantly increase the fertility of mice and was effective for more than 5 months (equivalent to 10 years in humans). Next, we did a series of analysis including follicle counting; AMH level; estrous cycle; mTOR activity; GDF9, BMP15, LHR, Sirt1, and Cyp19a level; ROS and annexin V level; IL6 and adiponectin level; biochemical blood indices; body temperature; transcriptome; and DNA methylation studies. From these, we proposed that rat BAT xenotransplantation rescued multiple indices indicative of follicle and oocyte quality; rat BAT also improved the metabolism and general health of the aging mice; and transcriptional and epigenetic (DNA methylation) improvement in F0 mice could benefit F1 mice; and multiple KEGG pathways and GO classified biological processes the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) or differentially methylated regions (DMRs) involved were identical between F0 and F1. This study could be a helpful reference for clinical BAT xenotransplantation from close human relatives to the woman.

Functional roles of fucosylated and O-glycosylated cadherins during carcinogenesis and metastasis

Reduced cellular adhesiveness as a result of cadherin dysfunction is a defining feature of cancer and the mechanism involved in many aspects. Glycosylation is one of the most important post-translational modifications to cadherin. Major changes of glycosylation on cadherins can affect its stability, trafficking, and cell-adhesion properties. It has been reported that the different glycoforms of cadherins are promising biomarkers in cancer, with potential clinical application to constitute targets for the development of new therapies. Among the various glycoforms of cadherins, fucosylated and O-glycosylated cadherins are attracting more attention for their important roles in regulating cadherin functions during carcinogenesis. This review will discuss the most recent insights of the functional roles of fucosylated and O-glycosylated cadherins and their regulation mechanisms during carcinogenesis and metastasis. In summary, more understanding of fucosylated and O-glycosylated cadherins will lead to development of novel therapeutic approaches targeted to cancer.