JMJD3 facilitates C/EBPβ-centered transcriptional program to exert oncorepressor activity in AML

Skin derived precursors induced Schwann cells mediated tissue engineering-aided neuroregeneration across sciatic nerve defect

A central question in neural tissue engineering is how the tissue-engineered nerve (TEN) translates detailed transcriptional signals associated with peripheral nerve regeneration into meaningful biological processes. Here, we report a skin-derived precursor-induced Schwann cell (SKP-SC)-mediated chitosan/silk fibroin-fabricated tissue-engineered nerve graft (SKP-SCs-TEN) that can promote sciatic nerve regeneration and functional restoration nearly to the levels achieved by autologous nerve grafts according to behavioral, histological, and electrophysiological evidence. For achieving better effect of neuroregeneration, this is the first time to jointly apply a dynamic perfusion bioreactor and the ascorbic acid to stimulate the SKP-SCs secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM). To overcome the limitation of traditional tissue-engineered nerve grafts, jointly utilizing SKP-SCs and their ECM components were motivated by the thought of prolongating the effect of support cells and their bioactive cues that promote peripheral nerve regeneration. To further explore the regulatory model of gene expression and the related molecular mechanisms involved in tissue engineering-aided peripheral nerve regeneration, we performed a cDNA microarray analysis of gene expression profiling, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis and a validation study on the grafted segments and dorsal root ganglia tissues. A wealth of transcriptomic and bioinformatics data has revealed complex molecular networks and orchestrated functional regulation that may be responsible for the effects of SKP-SCs-TEN on promoting peripheral nerve regeneration. Our work provides new insights into transcriptomic features and patterns of molecular regulation in nerve functional recovery aided by SKP-SCs-TEN that sheds light on the broader possibilities for novel repair strategies of peripheral nerve injury.

CircDYM attenuates microglial apoptosis via CEBPB/ZC3H4 axis in LPS-induced mouse model of depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent condition and one of the most common psychiatric disorders worldwide. Circular RNA (circRNA) has been increasingly implicated in MDD. However, a comprehensive understanding of circRNA and microglial apoptosis in depression is incomplete. Here, we show that circDYM inhibits microglial apoptosis induced by LPS via CEBPB/ZC3H4 axis. CircDYM prevents the translocation of CEBPB from cytoplasm to the nucleus by binding with CEBPB. Moreover, LPS-induced CEBPB nuclear entry downregulates the expression of ZC3H4, in which promotes autophagy and apoptosis in microglia. Taken together, our findings provide new insights into the relationship between circDYM and microglial apoptosis and shed new light on the function of this novel mechanism in depression-associated complex changes in the brain.

MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitors affect the transformation of myelodysplastic syndrome into acute myeloid leukemia via H3K27me3 methylases and de‑methylases

The transformation of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) into acute myeloid leukemia (AML) poses a significant clinical challenge. The trimethylation of H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27me3) methylase and de‑methylase pathway is involved in the regulation of MDS progression. The present study investigated the functional mechanisms of the MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT pathways in the MDS‑to‑AML transformation. MDS‑AML mouse and SKM‑1 cell models were first established and this was followed by treatment with the MEK/ERK pathway inhibitor, U0126, the PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor, Ly294002, or their combination. H3K27me3 methylase, enhancer of zeste homolog (EZH)1, EZH2, demethylase Jumonji domain‑containing protein‑3 (JMJD3) and ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat on chromosome X (UTX) and H3K27me3 protein levels were determined using western blot analysis. Cell viability, cycle distribution and proliferation were assessed using CCK‑8, flow cytometry, EdU and colony formation assays. The ERK and AKT phosphorylation levels in clinical samples and established models were determined, and SKM‑1 cell behaviors were assessed. The levels of H3K27me3 methylases and de‑methylases and distal‑less homeobox 5 (DLX5) were measured. The results revealed that the ERK and AKT phosphorylation levels were elevated in patients with MDS and MDS‑AML, and in mouse models. Treatment with U0126, a MEK/ERK pathway inhibitor, and Ly294002, a PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor, effectively suppressed ERK and AKT phosphorylation in mice with MDS‑AML. It was observed that mice with MDS treated with U0126/Ly294002 exhibited reduced transformation to AML, delayed disease transformation and increased survival rates. Treatment of the SKM‑1 cells with U0126/Ly294002 led to a decrease in cell viability and proliferation, and to an increase in cell cycle arrest by suppressing ERK/PI3K phosphorylation. Moreover, treatment with U0126/Ly294002 downregulated EZH2/EZH1 expression, and upregulated JMJD3/UTX expression. The effects of U0126/Ly294002 were nullified when EZH2/EZH1 was overexpressed or when JMJD3/UTX was inhibited in the SKM‑1 cells. Treatment with U0126/Ly294002 also resulted in a decreased H3K27me3 protein level and H3K27me3 level in the DLX5 promoter region, leading to an increased DLX5 expression. Overall, the findings of the present study suggest that U0126/Ly294002 participates in MDS‑AML transformation by modulating the levels of H3K27me3 methylases and de‑methylases, and regulating DLX5 transcription and expression.

Isovitexin alleviates hepatic fibrosis by regulating miR-21-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling and glutathione metabolic pathway: based on transcriptomics and metabolomics

BACKGROUND

Effective drugs for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis have not yet been identified. Isovitexin (IVT) is a promising hepatoprotective agent owing to its efficacy against acute liver injury. However, the role of IVT in liver fibrosis has not been reported.

PURPOSE

To explore the effect of IVT on liver fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A mouse model of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and two types of hepatic stellate cell models induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) were established to evaluate the effect of IVT on hepatic fibrosis. Transcriptomics and metabolomics were used to predict the underlying targets of IVT and were validated by a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Exploration of miRNA and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications was also carried out to detect the key upstream targets of the above targets.

RESULTS

IVT reduced collagen deposition and hepatic stellate cell activation to alleviate liver fibrosis. The transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses showed that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling and the glutathione (GSH) metabolic pathway may be the main regulatory processes of IVT in hepatic fibrosis. Both the in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the inhibitory effect of IVT on the PTEN-PI3K-Akt-mTOR axis and activation of the GSH metabolic pathway. A miR-21 mimic inhibited the effects of IVT on these two pathways, suggesting that miR-21 is the hub for IVT regulation of PI3K-Akt signaling and the GSH metabolic pathway. IVT also increased pri-miR-21 level and reduced the m6A enrichment of pri-miR-21, demonstrating that IVT may regulate pri-miR-21 through m6A modification, thereby affecting the maturation of miR-21.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to propose a protective effect of IVT against liver fibrosis. The mechanism of IVT against hepatic fibrosis is based on the regulation of miR-21, targeting PTEN-Akt signaling and the GSH metabolic pathway, which is also a novel discovery.

Methylomics and cancer: the current state of methylation profiling and marker development for clinical care

Epigenetic modifications have long been recognized as an essential level in transcriptional regulation linking behavior and environmental conditions or stimuli with biological processes and disease development. Among them, methylation is the most abundant of these reversible epigenetic marks, predominantly occurring on DNA, RNA, and histones. Methylation modification is intimately involved in regulating gene transcription and cell differentiation, while aberrant methylation status has been linked with cancer development in several malignancies. Early detection and precise restoration of dysregulated methylation form the basis for several epigenetics-based therapeutic strategies. In this review, we summarize the current basic understanding of the regulation and mechanisms responsible for methylation modification and cover several cutting-edge research techniques for detecting methylation across the genome and transcriptome. We then explore recent advances in clinical diagnostic applications of methylation markers of various cancers and address the current state and future prospects of methylation modifications in therapies for different diseases, especially comparing pharmacological methylase/demethylase inhibitors with the CRISPRoff/on methylation editing systems. This review thus provides a resource for understanding the emerging role of epigenetic methylation in cancer, the use of methylation-based biomarkers in cancer detection, and novel methylation-targeted drugs.

High rumen degradable starch diet induced blood bile acids profile changes and hepatic inflammatory response in dairy goats

The objective of this study was to reveal the effect of rumen degradable starch (RDS) on bile acid metabolism and liver transcription in dairy goats using metabolomics and transcriptomics. Eighteen Guanzhong dairy goats of a similar weight and production level (body weight = 45.8 ± 1.54 kg, milk yield = 1.75 ± 0.08 kg, and second parity) were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups where they were fed a low RDS (LRDS, RDS = 20.52% DM) diet, medium RDS (MRDS, RDS = 22.15% DM) diet, or high RDS (HRDS, RDS = 24.88% DM) diet, respectively. The goats were fed with the experimental diets for 5 weeks. On the last day of the experiment, all goats were anesthetized, and peripheral blood and liver tissue samples were collected. The peripheral blood samples were used in metabolomic analysis and white blood cell (WBC) count, whereas the liver tissue samples were used in transcriptomic analysis. Based on the metabolomics results, the relative abundances of primary bile acids in the peripheral blood were significantly reduced in the group that was fed the HRDS diet (P < 0.05). The WBC count was significantly increased in the HRDS group compared with that in the LRDS and MRDS groups (P < 0.01), indicating that there was inflammation in the HRDS group. Transcriptomic analysis showed that 4 genes related to bile acid secretion (genes: MDR1, RXRα, AE2, SULT2A1) were significantly downregulated in the HRDS group. In addition, genes related to the immune response were upregulated in the HRDS group, suggesting the HRDS diet induced a hepatic inflammatory response mediated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) (gene: LBP), activated the Toll-like receptor 4 binding (genes: S100A8, S100A9) and the NF-kappa B signaling pathway (genes: LOC106503980, LOC108638497, CD40, LOC102180880, LOC102170970, LOC102175177, LBP, LOC102168903, LOC102185461, LY96 and CXCL8), triggered inflammation and complement responses (genes: C1QB, C1QC, and CFD). The HRDS diet induced a hepatic inflammatory response may be mediated by activating the Toll-like receptor 4 binding and NF-kappa B signaling pathway after free LPS entered the liver. The changes of bile acids profile in blood and the down-regulation of 4 key genes (MDR1, RXRα, AE2, SULT2A1) involved in bile secretion in liver are probably related to liver inflammation.

(R)-2-Hydroxyglutarate Inhibits KDM5 Histone Lysine Demethylases to Drive Transformation in IDH-Mutant Cancers

Oncogenic mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) and IDH2 occur in a wide range of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and glioma. Mutant IDH enzymes convert 2-oxoglutarate (2OG) to (R)-2-hydroxyglutarate [(R)-2HG], an oncometabolite that is hypothesized to promote cellular transformation by dysregulating 2OG-dependent enzymes. The only (R)-2HG target that has been convincingly shown to contribute to transformation by mutant IDH is the myeloid tumor suppressor TET2. However, there is ample evidence to suggest that (R)-2HG has other functionally relevant targets in IDH-mutant cancers. Here, we show that (R)-2HG inhibits KDM5 histone lysine demethylases and that this inhibition contributes to cellular transformation in IDH-mutant AML and IDH-mutant glioma. These studies provide the first evidence of a functional link between dysregulation of histone lysine methylation and transformation in IDH-mutant cancers.

SIGNIFICANCE

Mutant IDH is known to induce histone hypermethylation. However, it is not known if this hypermethylation is functionally significant or is a bystander effect of (R)-2HG accumulation in IDH-mutant cells. Here, we provide evidence that KDM5 inhibition by (R)-2HG contributes to mutant IDH-mediated transformation in AML and glioma. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1275.

Characterization and Evaluation of Rapamycin-Loaded Nano-Micelle Ophthalmic Solution

Rapamycin-loaded nano-micelle ophthalmic solution (RAPA-NM) offers a promising application for preventing corneal allograft rejection; however, RAPA-NM has not yet been fully characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and underlying mechanism of RAPA-NM in inhibiting corneal allograft rejection. An optimized RAPA-NM was successfully prepared using a polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene glycol (PVCL-PVA-PEG) graft copolymer as the excipient at a PVCL-PVA-PEG/RAPA weight ratio of 18:1. This formulation exhibited high encapsulation efficiency (99.25 ± 0.55%), small micelle size (64.42 ± 1.18 nm), uniform size distribution (polydispersity index = 0.076 ± 0.016), and a zeta potential of 1.67 ± 0.93 mV. The storage stability test showed that RAPA-NM could be stored steadily for 12 weeks. RAPA-NM also displayed satisfactory cytocompatibility and high membrane permeability. Moreover, topical administration of RAPA-NM could effectively prevent corneal allograft rejection. Mechanistically, a transcriptomic analysis revealed that several immune- and inflammation-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were significantly enriched in the downregulated genes in the RAPA-NM-treated allografts compared with the rejected allogenic corneal grafts. Taken together, these findings highlight the potential of RAPA-NM in treating corneal allograft rejection and other ocular inflammatory diseases.

Context-Dependent Functions of KDM6 Lysine Demethylases in Physiology and Disease

Histone lysine methylation is a major epigenetic modification that participates in several cellular processes including gene regulation and chromatin structure. This mark can go awry in disease contexts such as cancer. Two decades ago, the discovery of histone demethylase enzymes thirteen years ago sheds light on the complexity of the regulation of this mark. Here we address the roles of lysine demethylases JMJD3 and UTX in physiological and disease contexts. The two demethylases play pivotal roles in many developmental and disease contexts via regulation of di- and trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me2/3) in repressing gene expression programs. JMJD3 and UTX participate in several biochemical settings including methyltransferase and chromatin remodeling complexes. They have histone demethylase-dependent and -independent activities and a variety of context-specific interacting factors. The structure, amounts, and function of the demethylases can be altered in disease due to genetic alterations or aberrant gene regulation. Therefore, academic and industrial initiatives have targeted these enzymes using a number of small molecule compounds in therapeutic approaches. In this chapter, we will touch upon inhibitor formulations, their properties, and current efforts to test them in preclinical contexts to optimize their therapeutic outcomes. Demethylase inhibitors are currently used in targeted therapeutic approaches that might be particularly effective when used in conjunction with systemic approaches such as chemotherapy.

Elevated histone demethylase KDM5C increases recurrent miscarriage risk by preventing trophoblast proliferation and invasion

KDM5C is a histone H3K4-specific demethylase, which has been shown to play a key role in biological disease and development. However, the role of KDM5C in trophoblasts at early pregnancy is currently unknown. Here, we showed that KDM5C was upregulated in placental trophoblasts from recurrent miscarriage (RM) patients compared with healthy controls (HCs). Trophoblast proliferation and invasion was inhibited by KDM5C overexpression and was promoted by KDM5C knockdown. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that elevated KDM5C exerted anti-proliferation and anti-invasion effects by repressing the expression of essential regulatory genes. The combination analysis of RNA-seq, ChIP-seq and CUT&Tag assay showed that KDM5C overexpression leads to the reduction of H3K4me3 on the promoters and the corresponding downregulation of expression of several regulatory genes in trophoblasts. Among these genes, TGFβ2 and RAGE are essential for the proliferation and invasion of trophoblasts. Importantly, overexpression of KDM5C by a systemically delivered KDM5C adenovirus vector (Ad-KDM5C) promoted embryo resorption rate in mouse. Our results support that KDM5C is an important regulator of the trophoblast function during early pregnancy, and suggesting that KDM5C activity could be responsible for epigenetic alterations seen RM disease.

H3K27 tri-demethylase JMJD3 inhibits macrophage apoptosis by promoting ADORA2A in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common critical disease, which is characterized by an uncontrolled, acute inflammatory response, diffuse lung damage and ultimately directly deteriorates into acute respiratory distress syndrome. The number of pro-inflammatory macrophages is related to the severity of ALI. Up-regulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophage apoptosis can reduce the pro-inflammatory reactions. Jumonji domain-containing protein D3 (JMJD3)-mediated histone 3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) demethylation may promote the pro-inflammatory response of macrophages under LPS stimulation. However, the mechanism of JMJD3 affecting macrophage apoptosis is still not clear. To explore this gap in knowledge, the ALI mice model with intratracheal administration of LPS and RAW264.7 cells with LPS stimulation were used as in vivo and in vitro experiments. The expression of JMJD3 and H3K27me3 and their cellular localization were analysed in lung tissue. Apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL staining and flow cytometry. Expression of H3K27me3, ADORA2A and C/EBPβ were compared among different treatments and chromatin immunoprecipitation was performed to investigate the regulatory relationship. Our study showed that JMJD3 expression was upregulated in LPS-induced ALI mice and RAW264.7 cells. JMJD3-indued H3K27me3 demethylation inhibited caspase-3 cleavage by upregulating ADORA2A to decrease LPS-stimulated macrophage apoptosis and promoted the inflammatory reaction. This H3K27me3 demethylation also increased C/EBPβ expression, which may enhance ADORA2A expression further. Besides, inhibiting ADORA2A can also promote LPS-limited macrophage apoptosis. Moreover, the inhibition of JMJD3 in vivo and in vitro relieved the inhibition of macrophage apoptosis thus leading to the resolution of the inflammation. JMJD3 might inhibit macrophage apoptosis by promoting ADORA2A expression in LPS-induced ALI.

Emerging roles of JMJD3 in cancer

Histone lysine methylation plays a key role in gene activation and repression. The trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine-27 (H3K27me3) is a critical epigenetic event that is controlled by Jumonji domain-containing protein-3 (JMJD3). JMJD3 is a histone demethylase that specifically removes methyl groups. Previous studies have suggested that JMJD3 has a dual role in cancer cells. JMJD3 stimulates the expression of proliferative-related genes and increases tumor cell growth, propagation, and migration in various cancers, including neural, prostate, ovary, skin, esophagus, leukemia, hepatic, head and neck, renal, lymphoma, and lung. In contrast, JMJD3 can suppress the propagation of tumor cells, and enhance their apoptosis in colorectal, breast, and pancreatic cancers. In this review, we summarized the recent advances of JMJD3 function in cancer cells.

Didymin Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis by Alleviating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Glycerophospholipid Metabolism: Based on Transcriptomics and Metabolomics

Introduction

Origanum vulgare L. is a traditional Chinese herb, having a strong hepatoprotective effect. In our previous experiments, we have isolated an ingredient from this herb and identified it as didymin. This study aimed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of didymin on liver injury and fibrosis, elucidating whether it was the pharmacodynamic material basis of Origanum vulgare L.

Methods

Mice were injected with CCl₄ for 10 weeks to induce liver fibrosis, followed by didymin treatment for 6 weeks. Then, biochemical analysis and histopathological examinations were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effects of didymin in alleviating fibrosis. Next, the possible mechanisms of didymin were predicted by transcriptomics and then verified by the multiple relevant examinations.

Results

The pharmacodynamic experiments indicated that didymin significantly attenuated CCl₄-induced hepatic injury and fibrogenesis, as evidenced by the ameliorative pathological tissue, low transaminase activity, and decreased collagen accumulation. Interestingly, the transcriptome analysis predicted that the potential targets were likely to be endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), inflammation, apoptosis, and metabolic pathways. And the predictions were then verified by the following examinations: (1) didymin significantly inhibited ERS by regulating the ATF6, IRE1α, and PERK pathways; (2) didymin markedly alleviated hepatocyte apoptosis by restoring the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase families, as well as the mitochondrial dysfunction; (3) didymin significantly decreased the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6); (4) didymin inhibited the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway by decreasing the synthesis of phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylcholines.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that didymin can ameliorate liver fibrosis, which is mainly attributed to the inhibition of ERS, inflammation, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

A Pan-Cancer Analysis Revealing the Dual Roles of Lysine (K)-Specific Demethylase 6B in Tumorigenesis and Immunity

Introduction: Epigenetic-targeted therapy has been increasingly applied in the treatment of cancers. Lysine (K)-specific demethylase 6B (KDM6B) is an epigenetic enzyme involved in the coordinated control between cellular intrinsic regulators and the tissue microenvironment whereas the pan-cancer analysis of KDM6B remains unavailable.

Methods: The dual role of KDM6B in 33 cancers was investigated based on the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) and TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) databases. TIMER2 and GEPIA2 were applied to investigate the KDM6B levels in different subtypes or stages of tumors. Besides, the Human Protein Atlas database allowed us to conduct a pan-cancer study of the KDM6B protein levels. GEPIA2 and Kaplan–Meier plotter were used for the prognosis analysis in different cancers. Characterization of genetic modifications of the KDM6B gene was analyzed by the cBioPortal. DNA methylation levels of different KDM6B probes in different TCGA tumors were analyzed by MEXPRESS. TIMER2 was applied to determine the association of the KDM6B expression and immune infiltration and DNA methyltransferases. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the association of the KDM6B expression with TMB (tumor mutation burden) and MSI (microsatellite instability). The KEGG (Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes) pathway analysis and GO (Gene ontology) enrichment analysis were used to further investigate the potential mechanism of KDM6B in tumor pathophysiology.

Results: KDM6B was downregulated in 11 cancer types and upregulated across five types. In KIRC (kidney renal clear cell carcinoma) and OV (ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma), the KDM6B level was significantly associated with the pathological stage. A high level of KDM6B was related to poor OS (overall survival) outcomes for THCA (thyroid carcinoma), while a low level was correlated with poor OS and DFS (disease-free survival) prognosis of KIRC. The KDM6B expression level was associated with TMB, MSI, and immune cell infiltration, particularly cancer-associated fibroblasts, across various cancer types with different correlations. Furthermore, the enrichment analysis revealed the relationship between H3K4 and H3K27 methylation and KDM6B function.

Conclusion: Dysregulation of the DNA methyltransferase activity and methylation levels of H3K4 and H3K27 may involve in the dual role of KDM6B in tumorigenesis and development. Our study offered a relatively comprehensive understanding of KDM6B’s dual role in cancer development and response to immunotherapy.

Potential Prognostic Markers for Relapsed/Refractory vs. Responsive Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Simple Summary

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common blood cancer in the elderly, which progresses rapidly and is often fatal. The prognosis for AML remains poor in most older patients: only about 15% of patients over 60 years of age can recover. Our aim is to determine new potential AML clinical treatment prognosis markers. We analyzed certain genes, proteins and the epigenome profile in therapy-resistant and responsive AML patients at diagnosis stage and after clinical treatment. We determined that MYC, WT1, IDH1, CDKN1A, HDAC2, TET1, KAT6A and GATAD2A gene expression changes might characterize refractory AML. Therefore, these genes could have an impact for AML prognosis.

Abstract

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease. A significant proportion of AML patients is refractory to clinical treatment or relapses. Our aim is to determine new potential AML clinical treatment prognosis markers. We investigated various cell fate and epigenetic regulation important gene level differences between refractory and responsive AML patient groups at diagnosis stage and after clinical treatment using RT-qPCR. We demonstrated that oncogenic MYC and WT1 and metabolic IDH1 gene expression was significantly higher and cell cycle inhibitor CDKN1A (p21) gene expression was significantly lower in refractory patients’ bone marrow cells compared to treatment responsive patients both at diagnosis and after clinical treatment. Moreover, we determined that, compared to clinical treatment responsive patients, refractory patients possess a significantly higher gene expression of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) and epigenetic DNA modulator TET1 and a significantly lower gene expression of lysine acetyltransferase 6A (KAT6A) and nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex component GATAD2A. We suggest that MYC, WT1, IDH1, CDKN1A, HDAC2, TET1, KAT6A and GATAD2A gene expression changes might characterize refractory AML. Thus, they might be useful for AML prognosis. Additionally, we suggest that epigenetic modulation might be beneficial in combination with standard treatment.

Downregulation of the endothelial histone demethylase JMJD3 is associated with neointimal hyperplasia of arteriovenous fistulas in kidney failure

Jumonji domain-containing protein-3 (JMJD3), a histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylase, promotes endothelial regeneration, but its function in neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) has not been explored. In this study, we examined the contribution of endothelial JMJD3 to NIH of AVFs and the mechanisms underlying JMJD3 expression during kidney failure. We found that endothelial JMJD3 expression was negatively associated with NIH of AVFs in patients with kidney failure. JMJD3 expression in endothelial cells (ECs) was also downregulated in the vasculature of chronic kidney disease (CKD) mice. In addition, specific knockout of endothelial JMJD3 delayed EC regeneration, enhanced endothelial mesenchymal transition, impaired endothelial barrier function as determined by increased Evans blue staining and inflammatory cell infiltration, and accelerated neointima formation in AVFs created by venous end to arterial side anastomosis in CKD mice. Mechanistically, JMJD3 expression was downregulated via binding of transforming growth factor beta 1-mediated Hes family transcription factor Hes1 to its gene promoter. Knockdown of JMJD3 enhanced H3K27 methylation, thereby inhibiting transcriptional activity at promoters of EC markers and reducing migration and proliferation of ECs. Furthermore, knockdown of endothelial JMJD3 decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and nitric oxide production, leading to the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. In conclusion, we demonstrate that decreased expression of endothelial JMJD3 impairs EC regeneration and function and accelerates neointima formation in AVFs. We propose increasing the expression of endothelial JMJD3 could represent a new strategy for preventing endothelial dysfunction, attenuating NIH, and improving AVF patency in patients with kidney disease.

Tormentic Acid Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in vivo by Inhibiting Glycerophospholipids Metabolism and PI3K/Akt/mTOR and NF-κB Pathways: Based on Transcriptomics and Metabolomics

This study aimed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of tormentic acid (TA) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. The rats were intragastrically administered with 50% CCl₄ for 9 weeks to induce hepatic fibrosis, followed by various agents for 6 weeks. Transcriptomic analysis was carried out to predict the potential targets, and then multiple examinations were performed to verify the prediction. The results showed that TA significantly alleviated liver injury and fibrosis, as evidenced by the ameliorative pathological tissue, low transaminase activity, and decreased collagen accumulation. Besides, TA markedly reduced hepatocyte apoptosis by regulating the expression of caspase-3 and Bcl-2 families. The transcriptomic analysis revealed 2,173 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the TA and model groups, which could be enriched in the metabolic pathways and the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways. The metabolomics analysis showed that TA could regulate the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway by regulating the synthesis of phosphatidylserines, phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylcholines. Moreover, the integrative analysis of the transcriptomics and metabolomics data indicated that TA inhibited the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway by inhibiting the expression of LPCAT4, PTDSS2, PLA2G2A and CEPT1. In addition, the relevant signaling pathways analysis confirmed that TA inhibited HSCs activation by blocking the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and ameliorated inflammatory injury by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. In conclusion, TA significantly alleviates liver fibrosis in vivo by inhibiting the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and NF-κB signaling pathways.

KDM6 Demethylases and Their Roles in Human Cancers

Cancer therapy is moving beyond traditional chemotherapy to include epigenetic approaches. KDM6 demethylases are dynamic regulation of gene expression by histone demethylation in response to diverse stimuli, and thus their dysregulation has been observed in various cancers. In this review, we first briefly introduce structural features of KDM6 subfamily, and then discuss the regulation of KDM6, which involves the coordinated control between cellular metabolism (intrinsic regulators) and tumor microenvironment (extrinsic stimuli). We further describe the aberrant functions of KDM6 in human cancers, acting as either a tumor suppressor or an oncoprotein in a context-dependent manner. Finally, we propose potential therapy of KDM6 enzymes based on their structural features, epigenetics, and immunomodulatory mechanisms, providing novel insights for prevention and treatment of cancers.

The Cross Marks the Spot: The Emerging Role of JmjC Domain-Containing Proteins in Myeloid Malignancies

Histone methylation tightly regulates chromatin accessibility, transcription, proliferation, and cell differentiation, and its perturbation contributes to oncogenic reprogramming of cells. In particular, many myeloid malignancies show evidence of epigenetic dysregulation. Jumonji C (JmjC) domain-containing proteins comprise a large and diverse group of histone demethylases (KDMs), which remove methyl groups from lysines in histone tails and other proteins. Cumulating evidence suggests an emerging role for these demethylases in myeloid malignancies, rendering them attractive targets for drug interventions. In this review, we summarize the known functions of Jumonji C (JmjC) domain-containing proteins in myeloid malignancies. We highlight challenges in understanding the context-dependent mechanisms of these proteins and explore potential future pharmacological targeting.

Combinatorial Analysis of AT-Rich Interaction Domain 1A and CD47 in Gastric Cancer Patients Reveals Markers of Prognosis

Background: The AT-rich interaction domain 1A (ARID1A) is thought to be a tumor suppressive gene, and most of its mutations result in loss of expression of ARID1A protein. Combined with SIRPα on the surface of macrophages, CD47 on the surface of cancer cells can send an antiphagocytic “Don’t eat me” signal to the immune system that helps to avoid immune surveillance. However, the relationship between ARID1A and CD47 expression and their prognostic value in gastric cancer (GC) are still unknown.

Methods: In this study, we evaluated ARID1A and CD47 expression in 154 GC patients’ tissues using tissue microarray. Expressions of ARID1A and CD47 in GC cell lines were determined by western blot and quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) techniques, and cell membranous CD47 expression was quantified by flow cytometry. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)–qPCR was used to determine the aspects of regulation of CD47 by ARID1A. The proportions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells were estimated on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data set by using quanTIseq and EPIC algorithms. The infiltration of M1-polarized macrophages, M2-polarized macrophages, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in GC tissues was determined by multispectral immunofluorescence.

Results: A significant correlation was found between loss of ARID1A and high expression of CD47 at protein level in GC. By integrating 375 bulk RNA sequencing samples from TCGA data set, we found that mutated ARID1A correlated with high CD47 expression. In GC cell lines, knockdown of ARID1A significantly increased CD47 expression both at protein and mRNA levels as measured by western blot, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry. Moreover, ChIP-qPCR revealed that CD47 was a direct downstream target gene of ARID1A in GC. Utilizing univariate and multivariate survival analyses, we found that patients with ARID1A^lossCD47^high expression had a worse prognosis. Estimation of infiltrating immune cells on TCGA data set showed that a higher infiltration proportion of M2 macrophages and Tregs was found in ARID1A^mutatedCD47^high expression subgroup. Furthermore, application of multispectral immunofluorescence revealed a higher infiltration proportion of M2 macrophages and Tregs in ARID1A^lossCD47^high GC tissues.

Conclusion: Loss of ARID1A is strongly correlated with high CD47 expression in GC, and combination of ARID1A and CD47 is a promising prognosis factor in GC.

Leukemic progenitor cells enable immunosuppression and post-chemotherapy relapse via IL-36-inflammatory monocyte axis

Chemotherapy can effectively reduce the leukemic burden and restore immune cell production in most acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases. Nevertheless, endogenous immunosurveillance usually fails to recover after chemotherapy, permitting relapse. The underlying mechanisms of this therapeutic failure have remained poorly understood. Here, we show that abnormal IL-36 production activated by NF-κB is an essential feature of mouse and human leukemic progenitor cells (LPs). Mechanistically, IL-36 directly activates inflammatory monocytes (IMs) in bone marrow, which then precludes clearance of leukemia mediated by CD8⁺ T cells and facilitates LP growth. While sparing IMs, common chemotherapeutic agents stimulate IL-36 production from residual LPs via caspase-1 activation, thereby enabling the persistence of this immunosuppressive IL-36–IM axis after chemotherapy. Furthermore, IM depletion by trabectedin, with chemotherapy and PD-1 blockade, can synergistically restrict AML progression and relapse. Collectively, these results suggest inhibition of the IL-36–IM axis as a potential strategy for improving AML treatment.

JMJD3: a critical epigenetic regulator in stem cell fate

The Jumonji domain-containing protein-3 (JMJD3) is a histone demethylase that regulates the trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27me3). H3K27me3 is an important epigenetic event associated with transcriptional silencing. JMJD3 has been studied extensively in immune diseases, cancer, and tumor development. There is a comprehensive epigenetic transformation during the transition of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into specialized cells or the reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Recent studies have illustrated that JMJD3 plays a major role in cell fate determination of pluripotent and multipotent stem cells (MSCs). JMJD3 has been found to enhance self-renewal ability and reduce the differentiation capacity of ESCs and MSCs. In this review, we will focus on the recent advances of JMJD3 function in stem cell fate.

KDM6B promotes ESCC cell proliferation and metastasis by facilitating C/EBPβ transcription

Background

As an H3K27me3 demethylase and counteracts polycomb-mediated transcription repression, KDM6B has been implicated in the development and malignant progression in various types of cancers. However, its potential roles in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have not been explored.

Methods

The expression of KDM6B in human ESCC tissues and cell lines was examined using RT-qPCR, immunohistochemical staining and immunoblotting. The effects of KDM6B on the proliferation and metastasis of ESCC were examined using in vitro and in vivo functional tests. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq assay were used to demonstrate the molecular biological mechanism of KDM6B in ESCC.

Results

We show that the expression level of KDM6B increased significantly in patients with lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, we confirmed that KDM6B knockdown reduces proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells, while KDM6B overexpression has the opposite effects. Mechanistically, KDM6B regulates TNFA_SIGNALING_VIA_NFκB signalling pathways, and H3K27me3 binds to the promoter region of C/EBPβ, leading to the promotion of C/EBPβ transcription. Besides, we show that GSK-J4, a chemical inhibitor of KDM6B, markedly inhibits proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that KDM6B promotes ESCC progression by increasing the transcriptional activity of C/EBPβ depending on its H3K27 demethylase activity.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08282-w.

Tanshinone I, a new EZH2 inhibitor restricts normal and malignant hematopoiesis through upregulation of MMP9 and ABCG2

Rationale: Tanshinone, a type of diterpenes derived from salvia miltiorrhiza, is a particularly promising herbal medicine compound for the treatment of cancers including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the therapeutic function and the underlying mechanism of Tanshinone in AML are not clear, and the toxic effect of Tanshinone limits its clinical application. Methods: Our work utilizes human leukemia cell lines, zebrafish transgenics and xenograft models to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms of how Tanshinone affects normal and abnormal hematopoiesis. WISH, Sudan Black and O-Dianisidine Staining were used to determine the expression of hematopoietic genes on zebrafish embryos. RNA-seq analysis showed that differential expression genes and enrichment gene signature with Tan I treatment. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) method was used with a BIAcore T200 (GE Healthcare) to measure the binding affinities of Tan I. In vitro methyltransferase assay was performed to verify Tan I inhibits the histone enzymatic activity of the PRC2 complex. ChIP-qPCR assay was used to determine the H3K27me3 level of EZH2 target genes. Results: We found that Tanshinone I (Tan I), one of the Tanshinones, can inhibit the proliferation of human leukemia cells in vitro and in the xenograft zebrafish model, as well as the normal and malignant definitive hematopoiesis in zebrafish. Mechanistic studies illustrate that Tan I regulates normal and malignant hematopoiesis through direct binding to EZH2, a well-known histone H3K27 methyltransferase, and inhibiting PRC2 enzymatic activity. Furthermore, we identified MMP9 and ABCG2 as two possible downstream genes of Tan I's effects on EZH2. Conclusions: Together, this study confirmed that Tan I is a novel EZH2 inhibitor and suggested MMP9 and ABCG2 as two potential therapeutic targets for myeloid malignant diseases.

Upregulation of KDM6B contributes to lipopolysaccharide-induced anxiety-like behavior via modulation of VGLL4 in mice

Histone H3K27me3 demethylase KDM6B (also known as Jumonji domain-containing protein D3, JMJD3) plays vital roles in the etiology of inflammatory responses; however, little is known about the role of KDM6B in neuroinflammation-induced anxiety-like behavior. The present study aimed to investigate the potential role of KDM6B in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced anxiety-like behavior and to evaluate whether it is associated with the modulation of vestigial-like family member 4 (VGLL4). The elevated plus maze, light-dark box, and open-field test were performed to test the anxiety-like behavior induced by LPS in C57BL/6 J male mice. Levels of relative protein expression in the hippocampus were quantified by western blotting. KDM6B inhibitor GSK-J4 and microglia inhibitor minocycline as well as adeno-associated virus of Vgll4 shRNA were used to explore the underlying mechanisms. We found that KDM6B, VGLL4, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule-1 (Iba-1, microglia marker) protein levels were increased in LPS-dose dependent manner in the hippocampus but not in prefrontal cortex. GSK-J4 treatment attenuated LPS-induced VGLL4, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), IL-1β and Iba-1 upregulation and anxiety-like behavior. Knockdown VGLL4 with Vgll4 shRNA prevented the increase of anxiety-like behavior and levels of STAT3, IL-1β, and Iba-1 expression in the hippocampus of LPS-treated mice. Moreover, minocycline, an inhibitor of microglia treatment blunted LPS-induced anxiety-like behavior. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the induction of neuroinflammation by LPS promotes KDM6B activation in the hippocampus, and LPS-induced anxiety-like behavior is associated with upregulation of VGLL4 by KDM6B in the hippocampus.

KDM6B (JMJD3) and its dual role in cancer

Epigenetic modifications play a fundamental role in the regulation of gene expression and cell fate. During the development of cancer, epigenetic modifications appear that favor cell proliferation and migration, but at the same time prevent differentiation and apoptosis, among other processes. KDM6B is a histone demethylase that specifically removes methyl groups from H3K27me3, thus allowing re-expression of its target genes. It is currently known that KDM6B can act as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogene depending on the cellular context. Therefore, in this work we summarize the current knowledge of the role that KDM6B plays in different oncological contexts, and we try to orient it towards its clinical application.

Role of c-Myc haploinsufficiency in the maintenance of HSCs in mice

This study was conducted to determine the dosage effect of c-Myc on hematopoiesis and its distinct role in mediating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) and bone marrow niche cells. c-Myc haploinsufficiency led to ineffective hematopoiesis by inhibiting HSC self-renewal and quiescence and by promoting apoptosis. We have identified Nr4a1, Nr4a2, and Jmjd3, which are critical for the maintenance of HSC functions, as previously unrecognized downstream targets of c-Myc in HSCs. c-Myc directly binds to the promoter regions of Nr4a1, Nr4a2, and Jmjd3 and regulates their expression. Our results revealed that Nr4a1 and Nr4a2 mediates the function of c-Myc in regulating HSC quiescence, whereas all 3 genes contribute to the function of c-Myc in the maintenance of HSC survival. Adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) is a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. We have provided the first evidence that Apc haploinsufficiency induces a blockage of erythroid lineage differentiation through promoting secretion of IL6 in bone marrow endothelial cells. We found that c-Myc haploinsufficiency failed to rescue defective function of Apc-deficient HSCs in vivo but it was sufficient to prevent the development of severe anemia in Apc-heterozygous mice and to significantly prolong the survival of those mice. Furthermore, we showed that c-Myc-mediated Apc loss induced IL6 secretion in endothelial cells, and c-Myc haploinsufficiency reversed the negative effect of Apc-deficient endothelial cells on erythroid cell differentiation. Our studies indicate that c-Myc has a context-dependent role in mediating the function of Apc in hematopoiesis.

The Functions of the Demethylase JMJD3 in Cancer

Cancer is a major cause of death worldwide. Epigenetic changes in response to external (diet, sports activities, etc.) and internal events are increasingly implicated in tumor initiation and progression. In this review, we focused on post-translational changes in histones and, more particularly, the tri methylation of lysine from histone 3 (H3K27me3) mark, a repressive epigenetic mark often under- or overexpressed in a wide range of cancers. Two actors regulate H3K27 methylation: Jumonji Domain-Containing Protein 3 demethylase (JMJD3) and Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) methyltransferase. A number of studies have highlighted the deregulation of these actors, which is why this scientific review will focus on the role of JMJD3 and, consequently, H3K27me3 in cancer development. Data on JMJD3’s involvement in cancer are classified by cancer type: nervous system, prostate, blood, colorectal, breast, lung, liver, ovarian, and gastric cancers.

KDM6B is an androgen regulated gene and plays oncogenic roles by demethylating H3K27me3 at cyclin D1 promoter in prostate cancer

Lysine (K)-specific demethylase 6B (KDM6B), a stress-inducible H3K27me3 demethylase, plays oncogenic or antitumoral roles in malignant tumors depending on the type of tumor cell. However, how this histone modifier affects the progression of prostate cancer (PCa) is still unknown. Here we analyzed sequenced gene expression data and tissue microarray to explore the expression features and prognostic value of KDM6B in PCa. Further, we performed in vitro cell biological experiments and in vivo nude mouse models to reveal the biological function, upstream and downstream regulation mechanism of KDM6B. In addition, we investigated the effects of a KDM6B inhibitor, GSK-J4, on PCa cells. We showed that KDM6B overexpression was observed in PCa, and elevated KDM6B expression was associated with high Gleason Score, low serum prostate-specific antigen level and shorted recurrence-free survival. Moreover, KDM6B prompted proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle progression and suppressed apoptosis in PCa cells. GSK-J4 administration could significantly suppress the biological function of KDM6B in PCa cells. KDM6B is involved in the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and combination of MDV3100 plus GSK-J4 is effective for CRPC and MDV3100-resistant CRPC. Mechanism exploration revealed that androgen receptor can decrease the transcription of KDM6B and that KDM6B demethylates H3K27me3 at the cyclin D1 promoter and cooperates with smad2/3 to prompt the expression of cyclin D1. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that KDM6B is an androgen receptor regulated gene and plays oncogenic roles by promoting cyclin D1 transcription in PCa and GSK-J4 has the potential to be a promising agent for the treatment of PCa.

C/EBPβ promotes poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor resistance by enhancing homologous recombination repair in high-grade serous ovarian cancer

PARP inhibitors (PARPi) are efficacious in treating high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HG-SOC) with homologous recombination (HR) deficiency. However, they exhibit suboptimal efficiency in HR-proficient cancers. Here, we found that the expression of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ), a transcription factor, was inversely correlated with PARPi sensitivity in vitro and in vivo, both in HR-proficient condition. High C/EBPβ expression enhanced PARPi tolerance; PARPi treatment in turn induced C/EBPβ expression. C/EBPβ directly targeted and upregulated multiple HR genes (BRCA1, BRIP1, BRIT1, and RAD51), thereby inducing restoration of HR capacity and mediating acquired PARPi resistance. C/EBPβ is a key regulator of the HR pathway and an indicator of PARPi responsiveness. Targeting C/EBPβ could induce HR deficiency and rescue PARPi sensitivity accordingly. Our findings indicate that HR-proficient patients may benefit from PARPi via targeting C/EBPβ, and C/EBPβ expression levels enable predicting and tracking PARPi responsiveness during treatment.

Upregulation of deubiquitinase USP7 by transcription factor FOXO6 promotes EC progression via targeting the JMJD3/CLU axis

Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is recognized as one of the most frequently occurring malignancies worldwide, and its high morbidity rate motivates efforts to identify potential therapeutic targets. Notably, forkhead box (FOX) family genes are highlighted as possible biomarkers for diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics of various malignancies, including EC. Our present study was performed to investigate the underlying mechanism of FOXO6 on the development of EC. We observed a significant upregulation of FOXO6 in EC tissues, contributing to the migration and proliferation in EC cells through gain- and loss-of-function assays. FOXO6 directly interacted with the ubiquitin-specific processing protease 7 (USP7) gene promoter and enhanced its transcriptional activity, which resulted in suppressed cancer cell apoptosis as revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR. USP7 enhanced the ubiquitination of Jumonji domain-containing protein D3 (JMJD3), elevated JMJD3-promoted growth of EC cells, and transcriptionally activated clusterin (CLU) expression at the promoter region via histone H3 lysine 27 tri-methyl (H3K27me3) demethylation, according to immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assays. Finally, we verified that FOXO6 mediated effects on the USP7/JMJD3/CLU axis to exert an oncogenic role in vivo, which was blocked by USP7 and JMJD3 inhibitor. Our findings demonstrate an important role of the FOXO6/USP7/JMJD3/CLU pathway in EC progression and thus provide attractive potential therapeutic targets for EC patients.

Gut microbiome communication with bone marrow regulates susceptibility to amebiasis

The microbiome provides resistance to infection. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We demonstrate that colonization with the intestinal bacterium Clostridium scindens protects from Entamoeba histolytica colitis via innate immunity. Introduction of C. scindens into the gut microbiota epigenetically altered and expanded bone marrow granulocyte-monocyte progenitors (GMPs) and resulted in increased intestinal neutrophils with subsequent challenge with E. histolytica. Introduction of C. scindens alone was sufficient to expand GMPs in gnotobiotic mice. Adoptive transfer of bone marrow from C. scindens-colonized mice into naive mice protected against amebic colitis and increased intestinal neutrophils. Children without E. histolytica diarrhea also had a higher abundance of Lachnoclostridia. Lachnoclostridia C. scindens can metabolize the bile salt cholate, so we measured deoxycholate and discovered that it was increased in the sera of C. scindens-colonized specific pathogen-free and gnotobiotic mice, as well as in children protected from amebiasis. Administration of deoxycholate alone increased GMPs and provided protection from amebiasis. We elucidated a mechanism by which C. scindens and the microbially metabolized bile salt deoxycholic acid alter hematopoietic precursors and provide innate protection from later infection with E. histolytica.

KDM5C Represses FASN-Mediated Lipid Metabolism to Exert Tumor Suppressor Activity in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

Background: KDM5C is a histone H3K4-specific demethylase, which has multiple biological functions during development and disease. However, the role of KDM5C in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remains unknown. Methods: Expression levels of KDM5C in ICC patients were determined by qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical assay. The functions of KDM5C in cell proliferation and invasion were determined in human ICC cells and mouse xenograft model using KDM5C overexpression and knockdown strategies in vivo. RNA-seq analysis was applied to investigate the transcriptional program of KDM5C. In addition, ChIP-qPCR was used to determine the regulation of FASN by KDM5C. Results: Here, we show that KDM5C was downregulated in human ICC, where its diminished expression was associated with poor prognosis. ICC cell proliferation and invasion were inhibited by KDM5C overexpression. Moreover, KDM5C suppressed ICC proliferation and metastasis in vivo. RNA-sequencing showed that KDM5C inhibits key signal pathways of cell proliferation, cell invasion and fatty acid metabolism. ChIP-qPCR revealed that overexpression of KDM5C led to the reduction of H3K4me3 on the promoter and the corresponding downregulation of the expression of FASN, which represents the major target gene of KDM5C to mediate the proliferation and invasion of ICC cells. Conclusions: Our results revealed the role of KDM5C as a novel tumor suppressor in ICC largely by repressing FASN-mediated lipid acid metabolism and thus KDM5C may contribute to the pathogenesis of ICC.

High rumen degradable starch decreased goat milk fat via trans-10, cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid-mediated downregulation of lipogenesis genes, particularly, INSIG1

Background

Starch is an important substance that supplies energy to ruminants. To provide sufficient energy for high-yielding dairy ruminants, they are typically fed starch-enriched diets. However, starch-enriched diets have been proven to increase the risk of milk fat depression (MFD) in dairy cows. The starch present in ruminant diets could be divided into rumen-degradable starch (RDS) and rumen escaped starch (RES) according to their different degradation sites (rumen or intestine). Goats and cows have different sensitivities to MFD. Data regarding the potential roles of RDS in milk fat synthesis in the mammary tissue of dairy goats and in regulating the occurrence of MFD are limited.

Results

Eighteen Guanzhong dairy goats (day in milk = 185 ± 12 d) with similar parity, weight, and milk yield were selected and randomly assigned to one of three groups (n = 6), which were fed an LRDS diet (Low RDS = 20.52%), MRDS diet (Medium RDS = 22.15%), or HRDS diet (High RDS = 24.88%) for 5 weeks. Compared with that of the LRDS group, the milk fat contents in the MRDS and HRDS groups significantly decreased. The yields of short-, medium- and long-chain fatty acids decreased in the HRDS group. Furthermore, increased RDS significantly decreased ruminal B. fibrisolvens and Pseudobutyrivibrio abundances and increased the trans-10, cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and trans-10 C18:1 contents in the rumen fluid.

A multiomics study revealed that the HRDS diet affected mammary lipid metabolism down-regulation of ACSS2, MVD, AGPS, SCD5, FADS2, CERCAM, SC5D, HSD17B7, HSD17B12, ATM, TP53RK, GDF1 and LOC102177400. Remarkably, the significant decrease of INSIG1, whose expression was depressed by trans-10, cis-12 CLA, could reduce the activity of SREBP and, consequently, downregulate the downstream gene expression of SREBF1.

Conclusions

HRDS-induced goat MFD resulted from the downregulation of genes involved in lipogenesis, particularly, INSIG1. Specifically, even though the total starch content and the concentrate-to-fiber ratio were the same as those of the high-RDS diet, the low and medium RDS diets did not cause MFD in lactating goats.

JMJD3-regulated expression of IL-6 is involved in the proliferation and chemosensitivity of acute myeloid leukemia cells

Emerging evidence shows that histone modification and its related regulators are involved in the progression and chemoresistance of multiple tumors including acute myeloid leukemia cells (AML). Our present study found that the expression of histone lysine demethylase Jumonji domain containing-3 (JMJD3) was increased in AML cells as compared with that in human primary bone marrow (HPBM) cells. Knockdown of JMJD3 can decrease the proliferation of AML cells and increase the chemosensitivity of daunorubicin (DNR) and cytarabine (Ara-C). By screening the expression of cytokines involved in AML progression, we found that knockdown of JMJD3 can inhibit the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6). Recombinant IL-6 (rIL-6) can attenuate si-JMJD3-suppressed proliferation of AML cells. Mechanistically, JMJD3 can positively regulate the promoter activity and transcription of IL-6 mRNA, while had no effect on its mRNA stability. Further, JMJD3 can regulate the expression of p65, which can directly bind with promoter of IL-6 to increase its transcription. Over expression of p65 significantly attenuated si-JMJD3-suppressed expression of IL-6. Collectively, we revealed that JMJD3 can regulate the proliferation and chemosensitivity of AML cells via upregulation of IL-6. It suggested that JMJD3 might be a potential therapy target for AML treatment.

Long noncoding RNA ARHGAP27P1 inhibits gastric cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle progression through epigenetically regulating p15 and p16

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as important regulators in the development and progression of gastric cancer (GC). ARHGAP27P1 is a pseudogene-derived lncRNA, and it has been found to be associated with GC in our preliminary study, but this association has not been studied further. Herein, we confirmed that ARHGAP27P1 was significantly downregulated in GC tissues, plasma and cells. Low expression of ARHGAP27P1 was closely associated with advanced TNM stage, increased invasion depth and lymphatic metastasis. Low ARHGAP27P1 expression also predicted a poor prognosis in GC patients. Functionally, overexpression of ARHGAP27P1 inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration in GC cells, while silencing of ARHGAP27P1 showed the opposite effects. Mechanistic investigations showed that ARHGAP27P1 had a key role in G0/G1 arrest. We further demonstrated that ARHGAP27P1 was associated with Jumonji-domain containing 3 (JMJD3) and that this association was required for the demethylation of H3K27me3, thereby epigenetically activating expression of p15, p16 and p57. Moreover, knockdown of JMJD3, p15, or p16 consistently reversed the inhibitory effects of ARHGAP27P1 in cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. Taken together, these results suggest that lncRNA ARHGAP27P1, as a novel cell cycle regulator, may serve as a potential target for GC prevention and treatment in human GC.

JMJD3 promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and migration of glioma cells via the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis

Histone H3K27 demethylase Jumonji domain-containing protein 3 (JMJD3) is involved in somatic cell differentiation and tumor progression; however, the underlying mechanisms of JMJD3 in cancer progression are yet to be fully explored. To improve understanding regarding the function of JMJD3 in brain tumor cells, the present study investigated the effects of JMJD3 on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration in glioma cells, and the underlying mechanisms involving the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) axis. Immunohistochemical staining of a tissue microarray of glioma samples confirmed that JMJD3 overexpression could stratify highly metastatic glioma. The overexpression of JMJD3 induced a spindle-shaped morphology, promoted N-cadherin expression, inhibited E-cadherin expression and enhanced the migration ability of U-251MG and U-87MG American Type Culture Collection cells. The expression of E-cadherin and N-cadherin were assessed by western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and cell migration was evaluated using a Transwell migration assay and wound-healing. The overexpression of JMJD3 upregulated CXCL12 expression in a demethylase activity-dependent manner as ChIP assays revealed a decrease in H3K27 trimethylation at the CXCL12 promoter following overexpression of JMJD3 in U-87MG ATCC cells. Accordingly, CXCL12 overexpression was sufficient to rescue the suppressive effects of JMJD3 inhibition on the EMT and migration in glioma cells. In addition, CXCR4 expression was not regulated by JMJD3, but the interruption of CXCR4 caused by the CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 abolished the promotional effect of JMJD3 on EMT and migration in glioma cells. Collectively, these results suggested that JMJD3 promoted EMT and migration in glioma cells via the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. The present study described a novel epigenetic mechanism regulating tumor cell EMT and migration, and provided a novel direction for glioma diagnosis and treatment.

Leukemic IL-17RB signaling regulates leukemic survival and chemoresistance

Secreted proteins provide crucial signals that have been implicated in the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in the bone marrow microenvironment. Here we identify aberrant expressions of inflammatory IL-17B and its receptor (IL-17RB) in human and mouse mixed lineage leukemia-rearranged AML cells, which were further increased after exposure to chemotherapy. Interestingly, silencing of IL-17B or IL-17RB led to significant suppression of leukemic cell survival and disease progression in vivo. Moreover, the IL-17B-IL-17RB axis protected leukemic cells from chemotherapeutic agent-induced apoptotic effects. Mechanistic studies revealed that IL-17B promoted AML cell survival by enhancing ERK, NF-κB phosphorylation, and the expression of antiapoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2, which were reversed by small-molecule inhibitors. Thus, the inhibition of the IL-17B-IL-17RB axis may be a valid strategy to enhance sensitivity and therapeutic benefit of AML chemotherapy.-Guo, H.-Z., Niu, L.-T., Qiang, W.-T., Chen, J., Wang, J., Yang, H., Zhang, W., Zhu, J., Yu, S.-H. Leukemic IL-17RB signaling regulates leukemic survival and chemoresistance.

RAS-Responsive Element-Binding Protein 1 Blocks the Granulocytic Differentiation of Myeloid Leukemia Cells

RAS-responsive element-binding protein 1 (RREB1) is a transcription factor that is implicated in RAS signaling and multiple tumors. However, the role of RREB1 in acute myeloid leukemia has not been studied. We found that RREB1 is overexpressed in AML patients and myeloid leukemia cell lines (NB4 and HL-60), and RREB1 expression was significantly decreased during granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells induced by all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Then we performed a RREB1 knockdown assay in NB4 and HL-60 cells; the results showed that knockdown of RREB1 upregulated expression of CD11b, CEBPβ, and microRNA-145 (miR-145), which hinted that knockdown of RREB1 enhanced granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells. In addition, inhibitor of miR-145 can offset the enhanced effect on granulocytic differentiation mediated by downregulation of RREB1. These collective findings demonstrated that RREB1 blocks granulocytic differentiation of myeloid leukemia cells by inhibiting the expression of miR-145 and downstream targets of the RAS signal pathway. These may provide a promising therapeutic target for AML patients.

Kdm6b regulates context-dependent hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal and leukemogenesis

The histone demethylase KDM6B (JMJD3) is upregulated in blood disorders, suggesting it may have important pathogenic functions. Here we examined the function of Kdm6b in hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target. Loss of Kdm6b lead to depletion of phenotypic and functional HSCs in adult mice, and Kdm6b is necessary for HSC self-renewal in response to inflammatory and proliferative stress. Loss of Kdm6b leads to a pro-differentiation poised state in HSCs due to the increased expression of the AP-1 transcription factor complex (Fos and Jun) and immediate early response (IER) genes. These gene expression changes occurred independently of chromatin modifications. Targeting AP-1 restored function of Kdm6b-deficient HSCs, suggesting Kdm6b regulates this complex during HSC stress response. We also show Kdm6b supports developmental context-dependent leukemogenesis for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and M5 acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Kdm6b is required for effective fetal-derived T-ALL and adult-derived AML, but not vice versa. These studies identify a crucial role for Kdm6b in regulating HSC self-renewal in different contexts, and highlight the potential of KDM6B as a therapeutic target in different hematopoietic malignancies.