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Yin Y, Feng W, Chen J, Chen X, Wang G, Wang S, Xu X, Nie Y, Fan D, Wu K, Xia L. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in the progression, metastasis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: from bench to bedside. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:72. [PMID: 39085965 PMCID: PMC11292955 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00539-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence, recurrence, and metastasis rates. The emergence of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of advanced HCC, but problems such as drug resistance and immune-related adverse events still exist in clinical practice. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC restricts the efficacy of immunotherapy and is essential for HCC progression and metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms behind immunosuppressive TME to develop and apply immunotherapy. This review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of HCC, the formation of the highly heterogeneous TME, and the mechanisms by which the immunosuppressive TME accelerates HCC progression and metastasis. We also review the status of HCC immunotherapy and further discuss the existing challenges and potential therapeutic strategies targeting immunosuppressive TME. We hope to inspire optimizing and innovating immunotherapeutic strategies by comprehensively understanding the structure and function of immunosuppressive TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Weibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xilang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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Xu Y, Hsu MF, Haj FG, Vahmani P. Effects of beef fat enriched with trans vaccenic acid and cis9, trans11-CLA on glucose homoeostasis and hepatic lipid accumulation in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Br J Nutr 2024; 131:1975-1984. [PMID: 38439535 DOI: 10.1017/s000711452400062x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Trans vaccenic acid (TVA, trans11-18 : 1) and cis9, trans11-CLA (also known as rumenic acid; RA) have received widespread attention as potentially beneficial trans-FA due to their putative health benefits, including anti-diabetic properties. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of beef fat naturally enriched with TVA and RA on parameters related to glucose homoeostasis and associated metabolic markers in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. Thirty-six male C57BL/6J mice (8 weeks old) were fed for 19 weeks with either a control low-fat diet (CLF), a control high-fat diet (CHF), or a TVA+RA-enriched high-fat diet (EHF). Compared with CLF, feeding either CHF or EHF resulted in adverse metabolic outcomes associated with high-fat diets, including adiposity, impaired glucose control and hepatic steatosis. However, the EHF diet induced a significantly higher liver weight TAG content and elevated plasma alanine transaminase levels compared with the CHF diet. Collectively, the findings from this study suggest that EHF does not improve glucose tolerance and worsens liver steatosis in DIO mice. However, the adverse effects of EHF on the liver could be in part related to the presence of other trans-FA in the enriched beef fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Xu
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA95616, USA
| | - Ming-Fo Hsu
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA95616, USA
| | - Fawaz George Haj
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA95616, USA
| | - Payam Vahmani
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA95616, USA
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Wang Y, Ye Q, Cui Y, Wu Y, Cao S, Hu F. Impact and mechanisms of drag-reducing polymers on shear stress regulation in pulmonary hypertension. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2024:CH242281. [PMID: 38905038 DOI: 10.3233/ch-242281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a refractory disease characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and resistance. Drag-reducing polymers (DRPs) are blood-soluble macromolecules that reduce vascular resistance by altering the blood dynamics and rheology. Our previous work indicated that polyethylene oxide (PEO) can significantly reduce the medial wall thickness and vascular resistance of the pulmonary arteries, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. METHODS This study was designed to investigate the role and mechanism of PEO on intracellular calcium [Ca2 +] i and cytoskeletal proteins of endothelial cells (ECs) induced by low shear stress (LSS) in PH. Primary Pulmonary Artery Endothelial Cells (PAECs) were subjected to steady LSS (1 dyn/cm2) or physiological shear stress (SS) (10 dyn/cm2) for 20 h in a BioFlux 200 flow system. Calcium influx assays were conducted to evaluate the mechanisms of PEO on [Ca2 +] i. Subsequently, taking the key protein that induces cytoskeletal remodeling, the regulatory light chain (RLC) phosphorylation, as the breakthrough point, this study focused on the two key pathways of PEO that regulate phosphorylation of RLC: Myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) pathways. RESULTS Our current research revealed that PEO at LSS (1 dyn/cm2) significantly suppressed LSS-induced [Ca2 +] i and the expression level of transient receptor potential channel 1(TRPC1). In addition, ECs convert LSS stimuli into the upregulation of cytoskeletal proteins, including filamentous actin (F-actin), MLCK, ROCK, p-RLC, and pp-RLC. Further experiments using pharmacological inhibitors demonstrated that PEO at the LSS downregulated cytoskeleton-related proteins mainly through the ROCK and MLCK pathways. CONCLUSIONS This study considered intracellular calcium and cytoskeleton rearrangement as entry points to study the application of PEO in the biomedical field, which has important theoretical significance and practical application value for the treatment of PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongqi Cui
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunjiang Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sipei Cao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, China
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Feng Hu
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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Fan L, You H, Jiang X, Niu Y, Chen Z, Wang H, Xu Y, Zhou P, Wei L, Jiang T, Deng D, Xue L, Peng Y, Xing W, Shao N. UCHL3 induces radiation resistance and acquisition of mesenchymal phenotypes by deubiquitinating POLD4 in glioma stem cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:247. [PMID: 38829550 PMCID: PMC11149539 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05265-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high degree of intratumoral genomic heterogeneity is a major obstacle for glioblastoma (GBM) tumors, one of the most lethal human malignancies, and is thought to influence conventional therapeutic outcomes negatively. The proneural-to-mesenchymal transition (PMT) of glioma stem cells (GSCs) confers resistance to radiation therapy in glioblastoma patients. POLD4 is associated with cancer progression, while the mechanisms underlying PMT and tumor radiation resistance have remained elusive. METHOD Expression and prognosis of the POLD family were analyzed in TCGA, the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) and GEO datasets. Tumorsphere formation and in vitro limiting dilution assay were performed to investigate the effect of UCHL3-POLD4 on GSC self-renewal. Apoptosis, TUNEL, cell cycle phase distribution, modification of the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis (Comet), γ-H2AX immunofluorescence, and colony formation assays were conducted to evaluate the influence of UCHL3-POLD4 on GSC in ionizing radiation. Coimmunoprecipitation and GST pull-down assays were performed to identify POLD4 protein interactors. In vivo, intracranial xenograft mouse models were used to investigate the molecular effect of UCHL3, POLD4 or TCID on GCS. RESULT We determined that POLD4 was considerably upregulated in MES-GSCs and was associated with a meagre prognosis. Ubiquitin carboxyl terminal hydrolase L3 (UCHL3), a DUB enzyme in the UCH protease family, is a bona fide deubiquitinase of POLD4 in GSCs. UCHL3 interacted with, depolyubiquitinated, and stabilized POLD4. Both in vitro and in vivo assays indicated that targeted depletion of the UCHL3-POLD4 axis reduced GSC self-renewal and tumorigenic capacity and resistance to IR treatment by impairing homologous recombination (HR) and nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). Additionally, we proved that the UCHL3 inhibitor TCID induced POLD4 degradation and can significantly enhance the therapeutic effect of IR in a gsc-derived in situ xenograft model. CONCLUSION These findings reveal a new signaling axis for GSC PMT regulation and highlight UCHL3-POLD4 as a potential therapeutic target in GBM. TCID, targeted for reducing the deubiquitinase activity of UCHL3, exhibited significant synergy against MES GSCs in combination with radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ligang Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongtao You
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yixuan Niu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhengxin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Huibo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Wei
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tianwei Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Danni Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lian Xue
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ya Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Xing
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Naiyuan Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Zhang Z, Xu S, Song M, Huang W, Yan M, Li X. Association between blood lipid levels and the risk of liver cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:943-953. [PMID: 38376693 PMCID: PMC11129988 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-024-01853-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The association between blood lipid levels and the risk of developing liver cancer remains a subject of ongoing debate. To elucidate this association, we conducted a meta-analysis by systematically incorporating data from all relevant prospective cohort studies. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases covering studies published from database inception through July 2023. This study included prospective cohort studies related to lipid profiles (e.g., total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels) that reported hazard ratios (HRs) or relative risks (RRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) to investigate their association with the risk of liver cancer. During the analysis process, we used fixed-effects or random-effects models based on the level of heterogeneity among the studies and obtained pooled risk ratios using these models. To ensure the robustness and reliability of the study findings, we also conducted sensitivity analyses and publication bias analyses. RESULTS After conducting a systematic search, 12 studies were identified from a total of 11,904 articles and were included in the meta-analysis. These studies included a combined population of 10,765,221 participants, among whom 31,055 cases of liver cancer were reported. The analysis revealed that the pooled HR for the serum TC concentration (highest versus lowest) was 0.45 (95% CI = 0.35-0.58, I2 = 78%). For TGs, the HR was 0.67 (95% CI = 0.46-0.96, I2 = 86%), while for HDL-C, the HR was 0.72 (95% CI = 0.58-0.90, I2 = 65%). The HR for LDL-C was 0.51 (95% CI = 0.23-1.13, I2 = 93%). CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that serum TC, TG, and HDL-C levels are negatively associated with liver cancer risk, suggesting that higher concentrations of these lipids are associated with a reduced risk of liver cancer. However, no significant association has been found between LDL-C levels and liver cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Zhang
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Shicong Xu
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Meixuan Song
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Weirong Huang
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Manlin Yan
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xianrong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
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Yang J, Li S, Wang J, Liu G, Zhang C, Li X, Liu X. Calmodulin 2 expression is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 258:155326. [PMID: 38754328 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calmodulin 2 (CALM2) belongs to the highly conserved calcium-binding protein family, implicated in the pathogenesis of various malignant tumors. However, its involvement in breast cancer (BRCA) remains unclear. This study aimed to examine CALM2 expression in BRCA and its associations with prognosis, clinicopathological features, protein-protein interactions, and immune cell infiltration. MATERIALS AND METHODS Online bioinformatics tools were employed to assess CALM2 expression and its clinical relevance in BRCA. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were utilized to evaluate CALM2 expression in BRCA cell lines and tissues. Logistic regression was applied to analyze the relationship between CALM2 expression levels and clinicopathological parameters. Transwell assay was performed to validate the role of CALM2 in BRCA migration and invasion. RESULTS CALM2 expression was significantly elevated in BRCA, with increased levels predicting poor overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Moreover, high CALM2 expression correlated with poorer DFS specifically in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). CALM2 expression in BRCA showed significant associations with lymph node metastasis, TP53 mutation status, and menopause status. Silencing CALM2 in BRCA cells demonstrated inhibition of cell migration and invasion in vitro. CONCLUSIONS CALM2 is overexpressed in BRCA and its upregulation is significantly correlated with poor patient prognosis. Elevated CALM2 expression holds promise as a potential molecular marker for predicting poor survival and as a therapeutic target in BRCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Yang
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuixian Li
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guoyuan Liu
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenyang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuping Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Piccinin E, Arconzo M, Pasculli E, Tricase AF, Cultrera S, Bertrand-Michel J, Loiseau N, Villani G, Guillou H, Moschetta A. Pivotal role of intestinal cholesterol and nuclear receptor LXR in metabolic liver steatohepatitis and hepatocarcinoma. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:69. [PMID: 38824560 PMCID: PMC11144344 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01248-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence is continuously increasing worldwide, due to the rise of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) cases. Cholesterol is an essential driver of the metabolic dysregulations that promote HCC progression. Liver X Receptor (LXR) is a nuclear receptor best known for the regulation of lipid and cholesterol homeostasis, with a prominent function in the liver and in the intestine. Here, we aimed to explore whether modifications in intestinal lipid metabolism may contribute to the onset of HCC, particularly taking into account cholesterol metabolism and LXRs. To study the progression of MASH to HCC, we induced metabolic HCC in wild-type male mice and mice carrying an intestinal chronic activation of LXRα. Also, we analysed human hepatic transcriptome datasets. The increased consumption of fat and carbohydrates drives the intestinal activation of LXRα and accelerates the onset of the hepatic tumours. Chronic intestinal-specific activation of LXRα enhances HCC progression only in the presence of a high cholesterol intake. In HCC, despite the increased hepatic cholesterol content, LXR is not active, thus driving liver cancer development. Intriguingly, in line with these results in the mouse model, LXR transcriptome is also downregulated in human hepatocarcinoma and its expression level in liver tumours directly correlates with a decreased survival rate in patients. Overall, our findings establish the relevance of the intestine in influencing the susceptibility to MASH-HCC and point to intestinal LXRα activation as a driver of metabolic liver cancer in the presence of dietary cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Piccinin
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Arconzo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy
| | - Emanuela Pasculli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy
| | - Angela Fulvia Tricase
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy
| | - Silvia Cultrera
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy
| | | | - Nicolas Loiseau
- Toxalim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), INRAE, ENVT, INP-PURPAN, UMR 1331, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Gaetano Villani
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Hervé Guillou
- Toxalim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), INRAE, ENVT, INP-PURPAN, UMR 1331, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Antonio Moschetta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, Bari, 70124, Italy.
- INBB, National Institute for Biostructures and Biosystems, Rome, Italy.
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Lu J, Feng Y, Guo K, Sun L, Ruan S, Zhang K. Association between human blood metabolome and the risk of gastrointestinal tumors. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304574. [PMID: 38814898 PMCID: PMC11139295 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of gastrointestinal tumors continues to be significant. To uncover promising therapeutic targets for these tumors, we rigorously executed a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to comprehensively screen the blood metabolomes for potential causal mediators of five frequently encountered gastrointestinal tumors (Liver Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Gastric Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer). METHODS We selected a comprehensive set of 137 distinct blood metabolites derived from three large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWASs) involving a total of 147827 participants of European ancestry. The gastrointestinal tumors-related data were obtained from a GWAS conducted within the Finnish study. Through meticulous MR analyses, we thoroughly assessed the associations between blood metabolites and gastrointestinal tumors. Additionally, a phenome-wide MR (Phe-MR) analysis was employed to investigate the potential on-target side effects of metabolite interventions. RESULTS We have identified 1 blood metabolites, namely isovalerylcarnitine (ORlog10: 1.01; 95%CI, 1.01-1.02; P = 1.81×10-7), as the potential causal mediators for liver cancer. However, no potential pathogenic mediators were detected for the other four tumors. CONCLUSIONS The current systematic MR analysis elucidated the potential role of isovalerylcarnitine as a causal mediator in the development of liver cancer. Leveraging the power of Phe-MR study facilitated the identification of potential adverse effects associated with drug targets for liver cancer prevention. Considering the weighing of pros and cons, isovalerylcarnitine emerges as a promising candidate for targeted drug interventions in the realm of liver cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Lu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuqian Feng
- Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaibo Guo
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Leitao Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shanming Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
- Anji Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Meroni M, Longo M, Dongiovanni P. Cardiometabolic risk factors in MASLD patients with HCC: the other side of the coin. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1411706. [PMID: 38846491 PMCID: PMC11153718 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1411706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) constitutes the commonest cause of chronic liver disorder worldwide, whereby affecting around one third of the global population. This clinical condition may evolve into Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in a predisposed subgroup of patients. The complex pathogenesis of MASLD is severely entangled with obesity, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes (T2D), so far so nutritional and lifestyle recommendations may be crucial in influencing the risk of HCC and modifying its prognosis. However, the causative association between HCC onset and the presence of metabolic comorbidities is not completely clarified. Therefore, the present review aimed to summarize the main literature findings that correlate the presence of inherited or acquired hyperlipidemia and metabolic risk factors with the increased predisposition towards liver cancer in MASLD patients. Here, we gathered the evidence underlining the relationship between circulating/hepatic lipids, cardiovascular events, metabolic comorbidities and hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, we reported previous studies supporting the impact of triglyceride and/or cholesterol accumulation in generating aberrancies in the intracellular membranes of organelles, oxidative stress, ATP depletion and hepatocyte degeneration, influencing the risk of HCC and its response to therapeutic approaches. Finally, our pursuit was to emphasize the link between HCC and the presence of cardiometabolic abnormalities in our large cohort of histologically-characterized patients affected by MASLD (n=1538), of whom 86 had MASLD-HCC by including unpublished data.
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Samy AM, Kandeil MA, Sabry D, Abdel-Ghany A, Mahmoud MO. From NAFLD to NASH: Understanding the spectrum of non-alcoholic liver diseases and their consequences. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30387. [PMID: 38737288 PMCID: PMC11088336 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most frequent chronic liver diseases worldwide in recent decades. Metabolic diseases like excessive blood glucose, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and liver function abnormalities cause NAFLD. NAFLD significantly increases the likelihood of liver cancer, heart disease, and mortality, making it a leading cause of liver transplants. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a more advanced form of the disease that causes scarring and inflammation of the liver over time and can ultimately result in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we briefly discuss NAFLD's pathogenic mechanisms, their progression into NASH and afterward to NASH-related cirrhosis. It also covers disease epidemiology, metabolic mechanisms, glucose and lipid metabolism in the liver, macrophage dysfunction, bile acid toxicity, and liver stellate cell stimulation. Additionally, we consider the contribution of intestinal microbiota, genetics, epigenetics, and ecological factors to fibrosis progression and hepatocellular carcinoma risk in NAFLD and NASH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Samy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef 62513, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Kandeil
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Dina Sabry
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University in Cairo, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - A.A. Abdel-Ghany
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef 62513, Egypt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assuit Branch, Egypt
| | - Mohamed O. Mahmoud
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
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11
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Fu R, Xue W, Liang J, Li X, Zheng J, Wang L, Zhang M, Meng J. SOAT1 regulates cholesterol metabolism to induce EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:325. [PMID: 38724499 PMCID: PMC11082151 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06711-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism reprogramming is one of the significant characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cholesterol increases the risk of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer. Sterol O-acyltransferases 1 (SOAT1) maintains the cholesterol homeostasis. However, the exact mechanistic contribution of SOAT1 to EMT in HCC remains unclear. Here we demonstrated that SOAT1 positively related to poor prognosis of HCC, EMT markers and promoted cell migration and invasion in vitro, which was mediated by the increased cholesterol in plasmalemma and cholesterol esters accumulation. Furthermore, we reported that SOAT1 disrupted cholesterol metabolism homeostasis to accelerate tumorigenesis and development in HCC xenograft and NAFLD-HCC. Also, we detected that nootkatone, a sesquiterpene ketone, inhibited EMT by targeting SOAT1 in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our finding indicated that SOAT1 promotes EMT and contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis by increasing cholesterol esterification, which is suppressed efficiently by nootkatone. This study demonstrated that SOAT1 is a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in NAFLD-HCC and SOAT1-targeting inhibitors are expected to be the potential new therapeutic treatment for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenqing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingjie Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Juan Zheng
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Medicine Research, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Lechen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Min Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China.
- China-Russia Agricultural Products Processing Joint Laboratory, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Jing Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biomedicine, Tianjin, China.
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12
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Liu ZY, Lin XH, Guo HY, Shi X, Zhang DY, Sun JL, Zhang GC, Xu RC, Wang F, Yu XN, Wang D, Weng SQ, Shen XZ, Liu TT, Dong L, Zhu JM. Multi-Omics profiling identifies aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 as a critical mediator in the crosstalk between Treg-mediated immunosuppression microenvironment and hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:2763-2778. [PMID: 38725845 PMCID: PMC11077362 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.93075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) family has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including cancer. However, a systematic evaluation of ALDH alterations and their therapeutic relevance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains lacking. Herein, we found that 15 of 19 ALDHs were transcriptionally dysregulated in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues. A four gene signature, including ALDH2, ALDH5A1, ALDH6A1, and ALDH8A1, robustly predicted prognosis and defined a high-risk subgroup exhibiting immunosuppressive features like regulatory T cell (Tregs) infiltration. Single-cell profiling revealed selective overexpression of tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 18 (TNFRSF18) on Tregs, upregulated in high-risk HCC patients. We identified ALDH2 as a tumor suppressor in HCC, with three novel phosphorylation sites mediated by protein kinase C zeta that enhanced enzymatic activity. Mechanistically, ALDH2 suppressed Tregs differentiation by inhibiting β-catenin/TGF-β1 signaling in HCC. Collectively, our integrated multi-omics analysis defines an ALDH-Tregs-TNFRSF18 axis that contributes to HCC pathogenesis and represents potential therapeutic targets for this aggressive malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xia-Hui Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Hong-Ying Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Dan-Ying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Jia-Lei Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Guang-Cong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ru-Chen Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Fu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xiang-Nan Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Dou Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shigatse People's Hospital, Shigatse, Tibet 857000, China
| | - Shu-Qiang Weng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xi-Zhong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Tao-Tao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ling Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ji-Min Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Liver Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
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13
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Wang D, Cao Y, Meng M, Qiu J, Ni C, Guo X, Li Y, Liu S, Yu J, Guo M, Wang J, Du B, Qiu W, Xie C, Zhao B, Ma X, Cheng X, Xu L. FOXA3 regulates cholesterol metabolism to compensate for low uptake during the progression of lung adenocarcinoma. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002621. [PMID: 38805565 PMCID: PMC11161053 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism is vital for multiple cancer progression, while how cholesterol affects lung, a low-cholesterol tissue, for cancer metastasis and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In this study, we found that metastatic lung adenocarcinoma cells acquire cellular dehydrocholesterol and cholesterol by endogenous cholesterol biosynthesis, instead of uptake upon cholesterol treatment. Besides, we demonstrated that exogenous cholesterol functions as signaling molecule to induce FOXA3, a key transcription factor for lipid metabolism via GLI2. Subsequently, ChIP-seq analysis and molecular studies revealed that FOXA3 transcriptionally activated Hmgcs1, an essential enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis, to induce endogenous dehydrocholesterol and cholesterol level for membrane composition change and cell migration. Conversely, FOXA3 knockdown or knockout blocked cholesterol biosynthesis and lung adenocarcinoma metastasis in mice. In addition, the potent FOXA3 inhibitor magnolol suppressed metastatic gene programs in lung adenocarcinoma patient-derived organoids (PDOs). Altogether, our findings shed light onto unique cholesterol metabolism and FOXA3 contribution to lung adenocarcinoma metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Affiliated Changzhou, No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxiang Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meiyao Meng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Qiu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Ni
- Institute of Organoid Technology, BioGenous Biotechnology, Inc., Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaozhen Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Joint Center for Translational Medicine, Fengxian District Central Hospital, Fengxian District, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingwei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiawen Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Du
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenwei Qiu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Zhao
- Institute of Organoid Technology, BioGenous Biotechnology, Inc., Suzhou, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinran Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Joint Center for Translational Medicine, Fengxian District Central Hospital, Fengxian District, Shanghai, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Precision Optics, Chongqing Institute of East China Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinghua Cheng
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyan Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Zhang L, Shi Y, Liang B, Li X. An overview of the cholesterol metabolism and its proinflammatory role in the development of MASLD. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0434. [PMID: 38696365 PMCID: PMC11068152 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential lipid molecule in mammalian cells. It is not only involved in the formation of cell membranes but also serves as a raw material for the synthesis of bile acids, vitamin D, and steroid hormones. Additionally, it acts as a covalent modifier of proteins and plays a crucial role in numerous life processes. Generally, the metabolic processes of cholesterol absorption, synthesis, conversion, and efflux are strictly regulated. Excessive accumulation of cholesterol in the body is a risk factor for metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). In this review, we first provide an overview of the discovery of cholesterol and the fundamental process of cholesterol metabolism. We then summarize the relationship between dietary cholesterol intake and the risk of developing MASLD, and also the animal models of MASLD specifically established with a cholesterol-containing diet. In the end, the role of cholesterol-induced inflammation in the initiation and development of MASLD is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linqiang Zhang
- Institute of Life Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongqiong Shi
- Institute of Life Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Liang
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xi Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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15
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Li K, Zhang J, Lyu H, Yang J, Wei W, Wang Y, Luo H, Zhang Y, Jiang X, Yi H, Wang M, Zhang C, Wu K, Xiao L, Wen W, Xu H, Li G, Wan Y, Yang F, Yang R, Fu X, Qin B, Zhou Z, Zhang H, Lee M. CSN6-SPOP-HMGCS1 Axis Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression via YAP1 Activation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306827. [PMID: 38308184 PMCID: PMC11005689 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism has important roles in maintaining membrane integrity and countering the development of diseases such as obesity and cancers. Cancer cells sustain cholesterol biogenesis for their proliferation and microenvironment reprograming even when sterols are abundant. However, efficacy of targeting cholesterol metabolism for cancer treatment is always compromised. Here it is shown that CSN6 is elevated in HCC and is a positive regulator of hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase 1 (HMGCS1) of mevalonate (MVA) pathway to promote tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, CSN6 antagonizes speckle-type POZ protein (SPOP) ubiquitin ligase to stabilize HMGCS1, which in turn activates YAP1 to promote tumor growth. In orthotopic liver cancer models, targeting CSN6 and HMGCS1 hinders tumor growth in both normal and high fat diet. Significantly, HMGCS1 depletion improves YAP inhibitor efficacy in patient derived xenograft models. The results identify a CSN6-HMGCS1-YAP1 axis mediating tumor outgrowth in HCC and propose a therapeutic strategy of targeting non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases- associated HCC.
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16
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Zhang L, Cao Z, Hong Y, He H, Chen L, Yu Z, Gao Y. Squalene Epoxidase: Its Regulations and Links with Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3874. [PMID: 38612682 PMCID: PMC11011400 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Squalene epoxidase (SQLE) is a key enzyme in the mevalonate-cholesterol pathway that plays a critical role in cellular physiological processes. It converts squalene to 2,3-epoxysqualene and catalyzes the first oxygenation step in the pathway. Recently, intensive efforts have been made to extend the current knowledge of SQLE in cancers through functional and mechanistic studies. However, the underlying mechanisms and the role of SQLE in cancers have not been fully elucidated yet. In this review, we retrospected current knowledge of SQLE as a rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate-cholesterol pathway, while shedding light on its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic marker, and revealed its therapeutic values in cancers. We showed that SQLE is regulated at different levels and is involved in the crosstalk with iron-dependent cell death. Particularly, we systemically reviewed the research findings on the role of SQLE in different cancers. Finally, we discussed the therapeutic implications of SQLE inhibitors and summarized their potential clinical values. Overall, this review discussed the multifaceted mechanisms that involve SQLE to present a vivid panorama of SQLE in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yuheng Hong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Haihua He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Leifeng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Zhentao Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
| | - Yibo Gao
- Central Laboratory & Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Precision Medicine for Cancers, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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17
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Kim GA, Park Y, Oh SJ, Jung J, Han S, Chang HS, Park SW, Kim TH, Park HW, Choe J, Kim J, Lee HC. A risk prediction model for hepatocellular carcinoma in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease without cirrhosis: HCC prediction for non-cirrhotic NAFLD. Liver Int 2024; 44:738-748. [PMID: 38110797 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming a leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), HCC risk in non-cirrhotic NAFLD received little attention. We aimed to develop and validate an HCC risk prediction model for non-cirrhotic NAFLD. METHODS A nationwide cohort of non-cirrhotic NAFLD patients in Korea was recruited to develop a risk prediction model and validate it internally (n = 409 088). A model using a simplified point system was developed by Cox proportional hazard model. K-fold cross-validation assessed the accuracy, discrimination and calibration. The model was validated externally using a hospital cohort from Asan Medical Center (n = 8721). RESULTS An 11-point HCC risk prediction model for non-cirrhotic NAFLD was developed using six independent factors of age, sex, diabetes, obesity, serum alanine aminotransferase level and gamma-glutamyl transferase level (c-index 0.75). The average area under receiver operating curves (AUROCs) of the model was 0.72 at 5 years and 0.75 at 10 years. In the external validation cohort, the AUROCs were 0.79 [95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59-0.95] at 5 years and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.73-0.94) at 10 years. The calibration plots showed the expected risks corresponded well with the observed risks. Risk stratification categorized patients into the low (score 0-6), moderate (7, 8) and high (9-11; estimated incidence rate >0.2%/year) risk groups. CONCLUSIONS A novel HCC risk prediction model for non-cirrhotic NAFLD patients was developed and validated with fair performance. The model is expected to serve as a simple and reliable tool to assess HCC risk and assist precision screening of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi-Ae Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yewan Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Ju Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooyi Jung
- Department of Biostatistics, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungbong Han
- Department of Biostatistics, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Sook Chang
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Won Park
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Hyup Kim
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Won Park
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewon Choe
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeil Kim
- Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Chu Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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18
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Wang X, Zhang L, Dong B. Molecular mechanisms in MASLD/MASH-related HCC. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00739. [PMID: 38349726 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths and ranks as the sixth most prevalent cancer type globally. NAFLD or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, and its more severe manifestation, NASH or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), pose a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 20%-25% of the population. The increased prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and MASH is parallel to the increasing rates of obesity-associated metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and fatty liver diseases. MASH can progress to MASH-related HCC (MASH-HCC) in about 2% of cases each year, influenced by various factors such as genetic mutations, carcinogen exposure, immune microenvironment, and microbiome. MASH-HCC exhibits distinct molecular and immune characteristics compared to other causes of HCC and affects both men and women equally. The management of early to intermediate-stage MASH-HCC typically involves surgery and locoregional therapies, while advanced HCC is treated with systemic therapies, including anti-angiogenic therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this comprehensive review, we consolidate previous research findings while also providing the most current insights into the intricate molecular processes underlying MASH-HCC development. We delve into MASH-HCC-associated genetic variations and somatic mutations, disease progression and research models, multiomics analysis, immunological and microenvironmental impacts, and discuss targeted/combined therapies to overcome immune evasion and the biomarkers to recognize treatment responders. By furthering our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying MASH-HCC, our goal is to catalyze the advancement of more potent treatment strategies, ultimately leading to enhanced patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bingning Dong
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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19
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Eberhart T, Stanley FU, Ricci L, Chirico T, Ferrarese R, Sisti S, Scagliola A, Baj A, Badurek S, Sommer A, Culp-Hill R, Dzieciatkowska M, Shokry E, Sumpton D, D'Alessandro A, Clementi N, Mancini N, Cardaci S. ACOD1 deficiency offers protection in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity by maintaining a healthy gut microbiota. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:105. [PMID: 38302438 PMCID: PMC10834593 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06483-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Aconitate decarboxylase 1 (ACOD1) is the enzyme synthesizing itaconate, an immuno-regulatory metabolite tuning host-pathogen interactions. Such functions are achieved by affecting metabolic pathways regulating inflammation and microbe survival. However, at the whole-body level, metabolic roles of itaconate remain largely unresolved. By using multiomics-integrated approaches, here we show that ACOD1 responds to high-fat diet consumption in mice by promoting gut microbiota alterations supporting metabolic disease. Genetic disruption of itaconate biosynthesis protects mice against obesity, alterations in glucose homeostasis and liver metabolic dysfunctions by decreasing meta-inflammatory responses to dietary lipid overload. Mechanistically, fecal metagenomics and microbiota transplantation experiments demonstrate such effects are dependent on an amelioration of the intestinal ecosystem composition, skewed by high-fat diet feeding towards obesogenic phenotype. In particular, unbiased fecal microbiota profiling and axenic culture experiments point towards a primary role for itaconate in inhibiting growth of Bacteroidaceae and Bacteroides, family and genus of Bacteroidetes phylum, the major gut microbial taxon associated with metabolic health. Specularly to the effects imposed by Acod1 deficiency on fecal microbiota, oral itaconate consumption enhances diet-induced gut dysbiosis and associated obesogenic responses in mice. Unveiling an unrecognized role of itaconate, either endogenously produced or exogenously administered, in supporting microbiota alterations underlying diet-induced obesity in mice, our study points ACOD1 as a target against inflammatory consequences of overnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Eberhart
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Uchenna Stanley
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Ricci
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Chirico
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Ferrarese
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
- Synlab Italia, Castenedolo, BS, Italy
| | - Sofia Sisti
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scagliola
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare, INGM, "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", Milan, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Sylvia Badurek
- Preclinical Phenotyping Facility, Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities (VBCF), member of the Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Sommer
- Next Generation Sequencing Facility, Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities (VBCF), member of the Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Rachel Culp-Hill
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Monika Dzieciatkowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | | | | | - Angelo D'Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Fondazione Macchi University Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Simone Cardaci
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy.
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20
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Lin J, Rao D, Zhang M, Gao Q. Metabolic reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment of liver cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:6. [PMID: 38297372 PMCID: PMC10832230 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The liver is essential for metabolic homeostasis. The onset of liver cancer is often accompanied by dysregulated liver function, leading to metabolic rearrangements. Overwhelming evidence has illustrated that dysregulated cellular metabolism can, in turn, promote anabolic growth and tumor propagation in a hostile microenvironment. In addition to supporting continuous tumor growth and survival, disrupted metabolic process also creates obstacles for the anticancer immune response and restrains durable clinical remission following immunotherapy. In this review, we elucidate the metabolic communication between liver cancer cells and their surrounding immune cells and discuss how metabolic reprogramming of liver cancer impacts the immune microenvironment and the efficacy of anticancer immunotherapy. We also describe the crucial role of the gut-liver axis in remodeling the metabolic crosstalk of immune surveillance and escape, highlighting novel therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lin
- Center for Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongning Rao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Mao Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Center for Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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21
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Chen J, Chan TTH, Zhou J. Lipid metabolism in the immune niche of tumor-prone liver microenvironment. J Leukoc Biol 2024; 115:68-84. [PMID: 37474318 DOI: 10.1093/jleuko/qiad081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a common primary site not only for tumorigenesis, but also for cancer metastasis. Advanced cancer patients with liver metastases also show reduced response rates and survival benefits when treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Accumulating evidence has highlighted the importance of the liver immune microenvironment in determining tumorigenesis, metastasis-organotropism, and immunotherapy resistance. Various immune cells such as T cells, natural killer and natural killer T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells, and stromal cells including liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and hepatocytes are implicated in contributing to the immune niche of tumor-prone liver microenvironment. In parallel, as the major organ for lipid metabolism, the increased abundance of lipids and their metabolites is linked to processes crucial for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and related liver cancer development. Furthermore, the proliferation, differentiation, and functions of hepatic immune and stromal cells are also reported to be regulated by lipid metabolism. Therefore, targeting lipid metabolism may hold great potential to reprogram the immunosuppressive liver microenvironment and synergistically enhance the immunotherapy efficacy in the circumstance of liver metastasis. In this review, we describe how the hepatic microenvironment adapts to the lipid metabolic alterations in pathologic conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. We also illustrate how these immunometabolic alterations promote the development of liver cancers and immunotherapy resistance. Finally, we discuss the current therapeutic options and hypothetic combination immunotherapies for the treatment of advanced liver cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintian Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, SAR, P.R. China
| | - Thomas T H Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, SAR, P.R. China
| | - Jingying Zhou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, SAR, P.R. China
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22
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Zhang X, Hu C, Li D, Liu S. Establishment and characterization of a recurrent malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor cell line: RsNF. Hum Cell 2024; 37:345-355. [PMID: 37938540 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-01000-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a highly aggressive and recurrent soft tissue sarcoma. It most commonly occurs secondary to neurofibromatosis type I, and it has a 5-year survival rate of only 8-13%. To better study the tumor heterogeneity of MPNST and to develop diverse treatment options, more tumor-derived cell lines are needed to obtain richer biological information. Here, we established a primary cell line of relapsed MPNST RsNF cells derived from a patient diagnosed with NF1 and detected the presence of NF1 mutations and SUZ12 somatic mutations through whole-exome sequencing(WES). Through tumor molecular marker targeted sequencing and single-cell transcriptome sequencing, it was found that chromosome 7 copy number variation (CNV) was gained in this cell line, and ZNF804B, EGFR, etc., were overexpressed on chromosome 7. Therefore, RsNF cells can be used as a useful tool in NF1-associated MPNST genomic amplification studies and to develop new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingnan Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenhao Hu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dezhi Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Injury, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- U1195, Inserm et Universite Paris-Saclay, 94276, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France.
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23
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Xu FX, Ioannou GN, Lee SP, Savard C, Horn CL, Fu D. Discrimination of lipid composition and cellular localization in human liver tissues by stimulated Raman scattering microscopy. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2024; 29:016008. [PMID: 38269081 PMCID: PMC10807871 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.29.1.016008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Significance The molecular mechanisms driving the progression from nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) to fibrosing steatohepatitis (NASH) are insufficiently understood. Techniques enabling the characterization of different lipid species with both chemical and spatial information can provide valuable insights into their contributions to the disease progression. Aim We extend the utility of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy to characterize and quantify lipid species in liver tissue sections from patients with NAFL and NASH. Approach We applied a dual-band hyperspectral SRS microscopy system for imaging tissue sections in both the C-H stretching and fingerprint regions. The same sections were imaged with polarization microscopy for detecting birefringent liquid crystals in the tissues. Results Our imaging and analysis pipeline provides accurate classification and quantification of free cholesterol, saturated cholesteryl esters (CEs), unsaturated CE, and triglycerides in liver tissue sections. The subcellular resolution enables investigations of the heterogeneous distribution of saturated CE, which has been under-examined in previous studies. We also discovered that the birefringent crystals, previously found to be associated with NASH development, are predominantly composed of saturated CE. Conclusions Our method allows for a detailed characterization of lipid composition in human liver tissues and enables further investigation into the potential mechanism of NASH progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Xi Xu
- University of Washington, Department of Chemistry, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - George N. Ioannou
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Seattle, Washington, United States
- University of Washington, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Research and Development, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Sum P. Lee
- University of Washington, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Christopher Savard
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Seattle, Washington, United States
- University of Washington, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Research and Development, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Christian L. Horn
- San Antonio Military Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Dan Fu
- University of Washington, Department of Chemistry, Seattle, Washington, United States
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24
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Li Z, Zheng D, Zhang T, Ruan S, Li N, Yu Y, Peng Y, Wang D. The roles of nuclear receptors in cholesterol metabolism and reverse cholesterol transport in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0343. [PMID: 38099854 PMCID: PMC10727660 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally, NAFLD encompasses a pathological process that ranges from simple steatosis to NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, closely associated with numerous extrahepatic diseases. While the initial etiology was believed to be hepatocyte injury caused by lipid toxicity from accumulated triglycerides, recent studies suggest that an imbalance of cholesterol homeostasis is of greater significance. The role of nuclear receptors in regulating liver cholesterol homeostasis has been demonstrated to be crucial. This review summarizes the roles and regulatory mechanisms of nuclear receptors in the 3 main aspects of cholesterol production, excretion, and storage in the liver, as well as their cross talk in reverse cholesterol transport. It is hoped that this review will offer new insights and theoretical foundations for the study of the pathogenesis and progression of NAFLD and provide new research directions for extrahepatic diseases associated with NAFLD.
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25
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Pereira ENGDS, de Araujo BP, Rodrigues KL, Silvares RR, Guimarães FV, Martins CSM, Flores EEI, Silva PMRE, Daliry A. Cholesterol Exacerbates the Pathophysiology of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis by Upregulating Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 and Modulating Microcirculatory Dysfunction. Nutrients 2023; 15:5034. [PMID: 38140293 PMCID: PMC10745917 DOI: 10.3390/nu15245034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is a pivotal lipotoxic molecule that contributes to the progression of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis NASH). Additionally, microcirculatory changes are critical components of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the role of cholesterol as an insult that modulates microcirculatory damage in NAFLD and the underlying mechanisms. The experimental model was established in male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat high-carbohydrate (HFHC) diet for 39 weeks. Between weeks 31-39, 2% cholesterol was added to the HFHC diet in a subgroup of mice. Leukocyte recruitment and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation in microcirculation were assessed using intravital microscopy. The hepatic microvascular blood flow (HMBF) was measured using laser speckle flowmetry. High cholesterol levels exacerbated hepatomegaly, hepatic steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and leukocyte recruitment compared to the HFHC group. In addition, cholesterol decreased the HMBF-cholesterol-induced activation of HSC and increased HIF1A expression in the liver. Furthermore, cholesterol promoted a pro-inflammatory cytokine profile with a Th1-type immune response (IFN-γ/IL-4). These findings suggest cholesterol exacerbates NAFLD progression through microcirculatory dysfunction and HIF1A upregulation through hypoxia and inflammation. This study highlights the importance of cholesterol-induced lipotoxicity, which causes microcirculatory dysfunction associated with NAFLD pathology, thus reinforcing the potential of lipotoxicity and microcirculation as therapeutic targets for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Nunes Goulart da Silva Pereira
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | - Beatriz Peres de Araujo
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | - Karine Lino Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | - Raquel Rangel Silvares
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | - Fernanda Verdini Guimarães
- Laboratory of Inflammation, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carolina Souza Machado Martins
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | - Edgar Eduardo Ilaquita Flores
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
| | | | - Anissa Daliry
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Physiopathology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (E.N.G.d.S.P.)
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26
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Mai L, Wen Z, Zhang Y, Gao Y, Lin G, Lian Z, Yang X, Zhou J, Lin X, Luo C, Peng W, Chen C, Peng J, Liu D, Marjani SL, Tao Q, Cui Y, Zhang J, Wu X, Weissman SM, Pan X. Shortcut barcoding and early pooling for scalable multiplex single-cell reduced-representation CpG methylation sequencing at single nucleotide resolution. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:e108. [PMID: 37870443 PMCID: PMC10681715 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is essential for a wide variety of biological processes, yet the development of a highly efficient and robust technology remains a challenge for routine single-cell analysis. We developed a multiplex scalable single-cell reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (msRRBS) technology. It allows cell-specific barcoded DNA fragments of individual cells to be pooled before bisulfite conversion, free of enzymatic modification or physical capture of the DNA ends, and achieves read mapping rates of 62.5 ± 3.9%, covering 60.0 ± 1.4% of CpG islands and 71.6 ± 1.6% of promoters in K562 cells. Its reproducibility is shown in duplicates of bulk cells with close to perfect correlation (R = 0.97-0.99). At a low 1 Mb of clean reads, msRRBS provides highly consistent coverage of CpG islands and promoters, outperforming the conventional methods with orders of magnitude reduction in cost. Here, we use this method to characterize the distinct methylation patterns and cellular heterogeneity of six cell lines, plus leukemia and hepatocellular carcinoma models. Taking 4 h of hands-on time, msRRBS offers a unique, highly efficient approach for dissecting methylation heterogeneity in a variety of multicellular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyao Mai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zebin Wen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yulong Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yu Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guanchuan Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhiwei Lian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiang Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jingjing Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xianwei Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
- SequMed Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chaochao Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wanwan Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Caiming Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiajia Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Duolian Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sadie L Marjani
- Department of Biology, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT 06050, USA
| | - Qian Tao
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Department of Clinical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sir YK Pao Center for Cancer and Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077 Hong Kong, China
| | - Yongping Cui
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518035, Guangdong, China
| | - Junxiao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
- SequMed Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xuedong Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sherman M Weissman
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Xinghua Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518035, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health of the Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
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27
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Goswami S, Zhang Q, Celik CE, Reich EM, Yilmaz ÖH. Dietary fat and lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188984. [PMID: 37722512 PMCID: PMC10937091 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic reprogramming has been considered a core hallmark of cancer, in which excessive accumulation of lipids promote cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. Lipid metabolism often includes the digestion and absorption of dietary fat, and the ways in which cancer cells utilize lipids are often influenced by the complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Among multiple cancer risk factors, obesity has a positive association with multiple cancer types, while diets like calorie restriction and fasting improve health and delay cancer. Impact of these diets on tumorigenesis or cancer prevention are generally studied on cancer cells, despite heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. Cancer cells regularly interact with these heterogeneous microenvironmental components, including immune and stromal cells, to promote cancer progression and metastasis, and there is an intricate metabolic crosstalk between these compartments. Here, we focus on discussing fat metabolism and response to dietary fat in the tumor microenvironment, focusing on both immune and stromal components and shedding light on therapeutic strategies surrounding lipid metabolic and signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swagata Goswami
- Department of Biology, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Qiming Zhang
- Department of Biology, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Cigdem Elif Celik
- Department of Biology, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Hacettepe Univ, Canc Inst, Department Basic Oncol, Ankara TR-06100, Turkiye
| | - Ethan M Reich
- Department of Biology, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ömer H Yilmaz
- Department of Biology, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconness Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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28
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Liu X, Lv M, Zhang W, Zhan Q. Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism in cancer progression. Oncogene 2023; 42:3289-3302. [PMID: 37773204 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02836-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol homeostasis has been implicated in the regulation of cellular and body metabolism. Hence, deregulated cholesterol homeostasis leads to the development of many diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases, among others. Recent studies have unveiled the connection between abnormal cholesterol metabolism and cancer development. Cholesterol homeostasis at the cellular level dynamically circulates between synthesis, influx, efflux, and esterification. Any dysregulation of this dynamic process disrupts cholesterol homeostasis and its derivatives, which potentially contributes to tumor progression. There is also evidence that cancer-related signals, which promote malignant progression, also regulate cholesterol metabolism. Here, we described the relationship between cholesterol metabolism and cancer hallmarks, with particular focus on the molecular mechanisms, and the anticancer drugs that target cholesterol metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer Research, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100021, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Mengzhu Lv
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer Research, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Weimin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer Research, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100021, China.
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Qimin Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Research Unit of Molecular Cancer Research, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100021, China.
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
- Soochow University Cancer Institute, Suzhou, 215127, China.
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Li Y, Karin M, Prochownik EV. Cholesterol esterification and p53-mediated tumor suppression. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1122-1127. [PMID: 38023993 PMCID: PMC10651352 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many human cancers carry missense mutations in or deletions of the tumor protein 53 (TP53) tumor suppressor gene. TP53's product, p53 regulates many biological processes, including cell metabolism. Cholesterol is a key lipid needed for the maintenance of membrane function and tissue homeostasis while also serving as a precursor for steroid hormone and bile acid synthesis. An over-abundance of cholesterol can lead to its esterification and storage as cholesterol esters. The recent study has shown that the loss of p53 leads to excessive cholesterol ester biosynthesis, which promotes hepatocellular carcinoma in mice. Blocking cholesterol esterification improves treatment outcomes, particularly for liver cancers with p53 deletions/mutations that originate in a background of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjun Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, China
- Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Michael Karin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Edward V. Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center and The Hillman Cancer Center of UPMC, The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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Zhang X, Tang B, Li J, Ouyang Q, Hu S, Hu J, Liu H, Li L, He H, Wang J. Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals mechanisms of restriction feeding on lipid metabolism in ducks. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102963. [PMID: 37586191 PMCID: PMC10450974 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Presently, excessive fat deposition is the main reason to limit the development of duck industry. In the production, the methods of restricted feeding (RF) were widely used to reduce the lipid deposition of ducks. The liver (L), abdominal adipose (AA), and subcutaneous adipose (SA) were the main tissues of lipid metabolism and deposition of ducks. However, the mechanisms of lipid metabolism and deposition of ducks under RF have not been fully clarified. In this study, in order to better understand the mechanisms of lipid metabolism and deposition in ducks under RF, a total of 120 male Nonghua ducks were randomly divided into a free feeding group (FF, n = 60) and RF group (RF, n = 60), then comparative transcriptomic analysis of L, AA, and SA between FF (n = 3) and RF (n = 3) ducks was performed at 56 d of age. Phenotypically, L, AA, and SA index of FF group was higher than that in RF group. There were 279, 390, and 557 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in L, AA, and SA. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that ECM-receptor interaction and metabolic pathways were significantly enriched in L, AA, and SA. Lipid metabolism-related pathways including fatty acid metabolism, unsaturated fatty acid synthesis, and steroidogenesis were significantly enriched in AA and SA. Moreover, through integrated analysis weighted gene coexpression network (WGCNA) and protein-protein interaction network, 10 potential candidate genes involved in the ECM-receptor interaction and lipid metabolism pathways were identified, including 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (HMGCS2), aldolase B (ALDOB), formimidoyltransferase cyclodeaminase(FTCD), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PCK1), tyrosine aminotransferase (TAT), stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), squalene epoxidase (SQLE), phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B), choline kinase A (CHKA), and elongation of very-long-chain fatty acids-like 2 (ELOVL2), which could play a key role in lipid metabolism and deposition of ducks under RF. Our study reveals that the liver might regulate the lipid metabolism of abdominal adipose and subcutaneous adipose through ECM-receptor interaction and metabolic pathways (fatty acid metabolism, unsaturated fatty acid synthesis, and steroid synthesis), thus to reduce the lipid deposition of ducks under RF. These results provide novel insights into the avian lipid metabolism and will help better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Bincheng Tang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Jiangming Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Qingyuan Ouyang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Shenqiang Hu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwei Hu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Hehe Liu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Hua He
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwen Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China.
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Chen G, Zhao X, Dankovskyy M, Ansah-Zame A, Alghamdi U, Liu D, Wei R, Zhao J, Zhou A. A novel role of RNase L in the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23158. [PMID: 37615181 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300621r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease and affects about 25% of the population globally. NAFLD has the potential to cause significant liver damage in many patients because it can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, which substantially increases disease morbidity and mortality. Despite the key role of innate immunity in the disease progression, the underlying molecular and pathogenic mechanisms remain to be elucidated. RNase L is a key enzyme in interferon action against viral infection and displays pleiotropic biological functions such as control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. Recent studies have demonstrated that RNase L is involved in innate immunity. In this study, we revealed that RNase L contributed to the development of NAFLD, which further progressed to NASH in a time-dependent fashion after RNase L wild-type (WT) and knockout mice were fed with a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet. RNase L WT mice showed significantly more severe NASH, evidenced by widespread macro-vesicular steatosis, hepatocyte ballooning degeneration, inflammation, and fibrosis, although physiological and biochemical data indicated that both types of mice developed obesity, hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, dysfunction of the liver, and systemic inflammation at different extents. Further investigation demonstrated that RNase L was responsible for the expression of some key genes in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis signaling. Taken together, our results suggest that a novel therapeutic intervention for NAFLD may be developed based on regulating the expression and activity of RNase L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanmin Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiaotong Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Maksym Dankovskyy
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Abigail Ansah-Zame
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Uthman Alghamdi
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Danting Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ruhan Wei
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jianjun Zhao
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Aimin Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Diseases, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Pan Y, Chen H, Zhang X, Liu W, Ding Y, Huang D, Zhai J, Wei W, Wen J, Chen D, Zhou Y, Liang C, Wong N, Man K, Cheung AHK, Wong CC, Yu J. METTL3 drives NAFLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma and is a therapeutic target for boosting immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101144. [PMID: 37586322 PMCID: PMC10439254 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging risk factor of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanism and target therapy of NAFLD-HCC are still unclear. Here, we identify that the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase METTL3 promotes NAFLD-HCC. Hepatocyte-specific Mettl3 knockin exacerbated NAFLD-HCC formation, while Mettl3 knockout exerted the opposite effect in mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that METTL3 suppressed antitumor immune response by reducing granzyme B (GZMB+) and interferon gamma-positive (IFN-γ+) CD8+ T cell infiltration, thereby facilitating immune escape. Mechanistically, METTL3 mediates sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) mRNA m6A to promote its translation, leading to the activation of cholesterol biosynthesis. This enhanced secretion of cholesterol and cholesteryl esters that impair CD8+ T cell function in the tumor microenvironment. Targeting METTL3 by single-guide RNA, nanoparticle small interfering RNA (siRNA), or pharmacological inhibitor (STM2457) in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) synergized to reinvigorate cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and mediate tumor regression. Together, METTL3 is a therapeutic target in NAFLD-HCC, especially in conjunction with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasi Pan
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huarong Chen
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Weixin Liu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yanqiang Ding
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianning Zhai
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wenchao Wei
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danyu Chen
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yunfei Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cong Liang
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Nathalie Wong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kwan Man
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alvin Ho-Kwan Cheung
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Chun Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Alabdulaali B, Al-rashed F, Al-Onaizi M, Kandari A, Razafiarison J, Tonui D, Williams MR, Blériot C, Ahmad R, Alzaid F. Macrophages and the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1195699. [PMID: 37377968 PMCID: PMC10291618 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1195699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is the site of first pass metabolism, detoxifying and metabolizing blood arriving from the hepatic portal vein and hepatic artery. It is made up of multiple cell types, including macrophages. These are either bona fide tissue-resident Kupffer cells (KC) of embryonic origin, or differentiated from circulating monocytes. KCs are the primary immune cells populating the liver under steady state. Liver macrophages interact with hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells to maintain homeostasis, however they are also key contributors to disease progression. Generally tolerogenic, they physiologically phagocytose foreign particles and debris from portal circulation and participate in red blood cell clearance. However as immune cells, they retain the capacity to raise an alarm to recruit other immune cells. Their aberrant function leads to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD refers to a spectrum of conditions ranging from benign steatosis of the liver to steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. In NAFLD, the multiple hit hypothesis proposes that simultaneous influences from the gut and adipose tissue (AT) generate hepatic fat deposition and that inflammation plays a key role in disease progression. KCs initiate the inflammatory response as resident immune effectors, they signal to neighbouring cells and recruit monocytes that differentiated into recruited macrophages in situ. Recruited macrophages are central to amplifying the inflammatory response and causing progression of NAFLD to its fibro-inflammatory stages. Given their phagocytic capacity and their being instrumental in maintaining tissue homeostasis, KCs and recruited macrophages are fast-becoming target cell types for therapeutic intervention. We review the literature in the field on the roles of these cells in the development and progression of NAFLD, the characteristics of patients with NAFLD, animal models used in research, as well as the emerging questions. These include the gut-liver-brain axis, which when disrupted can contribute to decline in function, and a discussion on therapeutic strategies that act on the macrophage-inflammatory axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bader Alabdulaali
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Ministry of Health, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Mohammed Al-Onaizi
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Anwar Kandari
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Ministry of Health, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Joanna Razafiarison
- INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Dorothy Tonui
- INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | | | - Camille Blériot
- INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Inserm U1015, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Fawaz Alzaid
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
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Bergamini C, Leoni I, Rizzardi N, Melli M, Galvani G, Coada CA, Giovannini C, Monti E, Liparulo I, Valenti F, Ferracin M, Ravaioli M, Cescon M, Vasuri F, Piscaglia F, Negrini M, Stefanelli C, Fato R, Gramantieri L, Fornari F. MiR-494 induces metabolic changes through G6pc targeting and modulates sorafenib response in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:145. [PMID: 37301960 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02718-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic reprogramming is a well-known marker of cancer, and it represents an early event during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. The recent approval of several molecular targeted agents has revolutionized the management of advanced HCC patients. Nevertheless, the lack of circulating biomarkers still affects patient stratification to tailored treatments. In this context, there is an urgent need for biomarkers to aid treatment choice and for novel and more effective therapeutic combinations to avoid the development of drug-resistant phenotypes. This study aims to prove the involvement of miR-494 in metabolic reprogramming of HCC, to identify novel miRNA-based therapeutic combinations and to evaluate miR-494 potential as a circulating biomarker. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis identified miR-494 metabolic targets. QPCR analysis of glucose 6-phosphatase catalytic subunit (G6pc) was performed in HCC patients and preclinical models. Functional analysis and metabolic assays assessed G6pc targeting and miR-494 involvement in metabolic changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ROS production in HCC cells. Live-imaging analysis evaluated the effects of miR-494/G6pc axis in cell growth of HCC cells under stressful conditions. Circulating miR-494 levels were assayed in sorafenib-treated HCC patients and DEN-HCC rats. RESULTS MiR-494 induced the metabolic shift of HCC cells toward a glycolytic phenotype through G6pc targeting and HIF-1A pathway activation. MiR-494/G6pc axis played an active role in metabolic plasticity of cancer cells, leading to glycogen and lipid droplets accumulation that favored cell survival under harsh environmental conditions. High miR-494 serum levels associated with sorafenib resistance in preclinical models and in a preliminary cohort of HCC patients. An enhanced anticancer effect was observed for treatment combinations between antagomiR-494 and sorafenib or 2-deoxy-glucose in HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS MiR-494/G6pc axis is critical for the metabolic rewiring of cancer cells and associates with poor prognosis. MiR-494 deserves attention as a candidate biomarker of likelihood of response to sorafenib to be tested in future validation studies. MiR-494 represents a promising therapeutic target for combination strategies with sorafenib or metabolic interference molecules for the treatment of HCC patients who are ineligible for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bergamini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Leoni
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921, Rimini, Italy
| | - Nicola Rizzardi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mattia Melli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Galvani
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921, Rimini, Italy
| | | | - Catia Giovannini
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Monti
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921, Rimini, Italy
| | - Irene Liparulo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Valenti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Hepato-biliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Cescon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Hepato-biliary Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138, Bologna, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44100, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Stefanelli
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921, Rimini, Italy
| | - Romana Fato
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Gramantieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Francesca Fornari
- Centre for Applied Biomedical Research - CRBA, University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 47921, Rimini, Italy.
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Goicoechea L, Conde de la Rosa L, Torres S, García-Ruiz C, Fernández-Checa JC. Mitochondrial cholesterol: Metabolism and impact on redox biology and disease. Redox Biol 2023; 61:102643. [PMID: 36857930 PMCID: PMC9989693 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is a crucial component of membrane bilayers by regulating their structural and functional properties. Cholesterol traffics to different cellular compartments including mitochondria, whose cholesterol content is low compared to other cell membranes. Despite the limited availability of cholesterol in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM), the metabolism of cholesterol in the IMM plays important physiological roles, acting as the precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones and neurosteroids in steroidogenic tissues and specific neurons, respectively, or the synthesis of bile acids through an alternative pathway in the liver. Accumulation of cholesterol in mitochondria above physiological levels has a negative impact on mitochondrial function through several mechanisms, including the limitation of crucial antioxidant defenses, such as the glutathione redox cycle, increased generation of reactive oxygen species and consequent oxidative modification of cardiolipin, and defective assembly of respiratory supercomplexes. These adverse consequences of increased mitochondrial cholesterol trafficking trigger the onset of oxidative stress and cell death, and, ultimately, contribute to the development of diverse diseases, including metabolic liver diseases (i.e. fatty liver disease and liver cancer), as well as lysosomal disorders (i.e. Niemann-Pick type C disease) and neurodegenerative diseases (i.e. Alzheimer's disease). In this review, we summarize the metabolism and regulation of mitochondrial cholesterol and its potential impact on liver and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leire Goicoechea
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic i Provincial de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Conde de la Rosa
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic i Provincial de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Torres
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic i Provincial de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen García-Ruiz
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic i Provincial de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain; Research Center for ALPD, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| | - José C Fernández-Checa
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB), CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic i Provincial de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain; Research Center for ALPD, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
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Zhu Y, Gu L, Lin X, Zhou X, Lu B, Liu C, Li Y, Prochownik EV, Karin M, Wang F, Li Y. P53 deficiency affects cholesterol esterification to exacerbate hepatocarcinogenesis. Hepatology 2023; 77:1499-1511. [PMID: 35398929 PMCID: PMC11186660 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cholesterol ester (CE) biosynthesis and homeostasis play critical roles in many cancers, including HCC, but their exact mechanistic contributions to HCC disease development require further study. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we report on a proposed role of tumor suppressor P53 in its repressing ubiquitin-specific peptidase 19 (USP19) and sterol O-acyltransferase (SOAT) 1, which maintains CE homeostasis. USP19 enhances cholesterol esterification and contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis (HCG) by deubiquitinating and stabilizing SOAT1. Loss of either SOAT1 or USP19 dramatically attenuates cholesterol esterification and HCG in P53-deficient mice fed with either a normal chow diet or a high-cholesterol, high-fat diet (HCHFD). SOAT1 inhibitor avasimibe has more inhibitory effect on HCC progression in HCHFD-maintained P53-deficient mice when compared to the inhibitors of de novo cholesterol synthesis. Consistent with our findings in the mouse model, the P53-USP19-SOAT1 signaling axis is also dysregulated in human HCCs. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings demonstrate that SOAT1 participates in HCG by increasing cholesterol esterification, thus indicating that SOAT1 is a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in P53-deficient HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahui Zhu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Gu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Lin
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinyi Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bingjun Lu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yajun Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Edward V. Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center and The Hillman Cancer Center of UPMC, The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael Karin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Fubing Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Youjun Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Foglia B, Beltrà M, Sutti S, Cannito S. Metabolic Reprogramming of HCC: A New Microenvironment for Immune Responses. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087463. [PMID: 37108625 PMCID: PMC10138633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary liver cancer, ranking third among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and whose incidence varies according to geographical area and ethnicity. Metabolic rewiring was recently introduced as an emerging hallmark able to affect tumor progression by modulating cancer cell behavior and immune responses. This review focuses on the recent studies examining HCC's metabolic traits, with particular reference to the alterations of glucose, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism, the three major metabolic changes that have gained attention in the field of HCC. After delivering a panoramic picture of the peculiar immune landscape of HCC, this review will also discuss how the metabolic reprogramming of liver cancer cells can affect, directly or indirectly, the microenvironment and the function of the different immune cell populations, eventually favoring the tumor escape from immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Foglia
- Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Marc Beltrà
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvatore Sutti
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of East Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Stefania Cannito
- Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, Italy
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Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma: pathogenesis and treatment. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023:10.1038/s41575-023-00754-7. [PMID: 36932227 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00754-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including its more severe manifestation, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), has a global prevalence of 20-25% and is a major public health problem. Its incidence is increasing in parallel to the rise in obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Progression from NASH to NASH-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (~2% of cases per year) is influenced by many factors, including the tissue and immune microenvironment, germline mutations in PNPLA3, and the microbiome. NASH-HCC has unique molecular and immune traits compared with other aetiologies of HCC and is equally prevalent in men and women. Comorbidities associated with NASH, such as obesity and diabetes mellitus, can prevent the implementation of potentially curative therapies in certain patients; nonetheless, outcomes are similar in patients who receive treatment. NASH-HCC at the early to intermediate stages is managed with surgery and locoregional therapies, whereas advanced HCC is treated with systemic therapies, including anti-angiogenic therapies and immune-checkpoint inhibitors. In this Review, we present the latest knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms and clinical management of NASH-HCC. We discuss data highlighting the controversy over varying responses to immune-checkpoint inhibitors according to underlying aetiology and suggest that the future of NASH-HCC management lies in improved surveillance, targeted combination therapies to overcome immune evasion, and identifying biomarkers to recognize treatment responders.
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Fei X, Jin M, Yuan Z, Li T, Lu Z, Wang H, Lu J, Quan K, Yang J, He M, Wang T, Wang Y, Wei C. MiRNA-Seq reveals key MicroRNAs involved in fat metabolism of sheep liver. Front Genet 2023; 14:985764. [PMID: 36968587 PMCID: PMC10035661 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.985764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a genetic difference between Hu sheep (short/fat-tailed sheep) and Tibetan sheep (short/thin-tailed sheep) in tail type, because of fat metabolism. Previous studies have mainly focused directly on sheep tail fat, which is not the main organ of fat metabolism. The function of miRNAs in sheep liver fat metabolism has not been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, miRNA-Seq was used to identify miRNAs in the liver tissue of three Hu sheep (short/fat-tailed sheep) and three Tibetan sheep (short/thin-tailed sheep) to characterize the differences in fat metabolism of sheep. In our study, Hu sheep was in a control group, we identified 11 differentially expressed miRNAs (DE miRNAs), including six up-regulated miRNAs and five down-regulated miRNAs. Miranda and RNAhybrid were used to predict the target genes of DE miRNAs, obtaining 3,404 target genes. A total of 115 and 67 GO terms as well as 54 and 5 KEGG pathways were significantly (padj < 0.05) enriched for predicted 3,109 target genes of up-regulated and 295 target genes of down-regulated miRNAs, respectively. oar-miR-432 was one of the most up-regulated miRNAs between Hu sheep and Tibetan sheep. And SIRT1 is one of the potential target genes of oar-miR-432. Furthermore, functional validation using the dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that the up-regulated miRNA; oar-miR-432 potentially targeted sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression. Then, the oar-miR-432 mimic transfected into preadipocytes resulted in inhibited expression of SIRT1. This is the first time reported that the expression of SIRT1 gene was regulated by oar-miR-432 in fat metabolism of sheep liver. These results could provide a meaningful theoretical basis for studying the fat metabolism of sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Fei
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meilin Jin
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zehu Yuan
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Taotao Li
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zengkui Lu
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihua Wang
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Lu
- National Animal Husbandry Service, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Quan
- College of Animals Science and Technology, Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junxiang Yang
- Gansu Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Pingliang, China
| | - Maochang He
- Gansu Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Pingliang, China
| | - Tingpu Wang
- College of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, TianShui Normal University, Tianshui, China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- College of Animals Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Caihong Wei, ; Yuqin Wang,
| | - Caihong Wei
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Caihong Wei, ; Yuqin Wang,
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Gao YH, Li X. Cholesterol metabolism: Towards a therapeutic approach for multiple sclerosis. Neurochem Int 2023; 164:105501. [PMID: 36803679 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence points to the importance of cholesterol in preserving brain homeostasis. Cholesterol makes up the main component of myelin in the brain, and myelin integrity is vital in demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Because of the connection between myelin and cholesterol, the interest in cholesterol in the central nervous system increased during the last decade. In this review, we provide a detailed overview on brain cholesterol metabolism in multiple sclerosis and its role in promoting oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and remyelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Han Gao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), The Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Xing Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Resources and Natural Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Shaanxi Normal University), The Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China.
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Xia W, Wang H, Zhou X, Wang Y, Xue L, Cao B, Song J. The role of cholesterol metabolism in tumor therapy, from bench to bed. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:928821. [PMID: 37089950 PMCID: PMC10117684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.928821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol and its metabolites have important biological functions. Cholesterol is able to maintain the physical properties of cell membrane, play an important role in cellular signaling, and cellular cholesterol levels reflect the dynamic balance between biosynthesis, uptake, efflux and esterification. Cholesterol metabolism participates in bile acid production and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Increasing evidence suggests a strict link between cholesterol homeostasis and tumors. Cholesterol metabolism in tumor cells is reprogrammed to differ significantly from normal cells, and disturbances of cholesterol balance also induce tumorigenesis and progression. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that controlling cholesterol metabolism suppresses tumor growth, suggesting that targeting cholesterol metabolism may provide new possibilities for tumor therapy. In this review, we summarized the metabolic pathways of cholesterol in normal and tumor cells and reviewed the pre-clinical and clinical progression of novel tumor therapeutic strategy with the drugs targeting different stages of cholesterol metabolism from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Xia
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaozhu Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Third Hospital Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Beijing, China
| | - Lixiang Xue
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Third Hospital Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lixiang Xue, ; Baoshan Cao, ; Jiagui Song,
| | - Baoshan Cao
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiation Sickness, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lixiang Xue, ; Baoshan Cao, ; Jiagui Song,
| | - Jiagui Song
- Cancer Center of Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Third Hospital Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University as the Third Responsibility Unit of Song Jiagui, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lixiang Xue, ; Baoshan Cao, ; Jiagui Song,
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Lan C, Huang X, Liao X, Zhou X, Peng K, Wei Y, Han C, Peng T, Wang J, Zhu G. PUS1 May Be a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2023; 16:337-355. [PMID: 37091827 PMCID: PMC10115212 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s405621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The mechanisms of pseudouridine synthase (PUS) are not definite in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the objective of this study is to investigate the effect of PUS genes in HCC. Materials and Methods Differentially expressed and prognostic gene of PUS enzymes was identified based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases. For the identified gene, pseudouridine synthase 1 (PUS1), was used for further research. The clinicopathological feature of PUS1 was analyzed by Student's t-test. Prognostic significance was explored by Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to appraise diagnostic and prognostic value. The Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were implemented to explore mechanism of PUS1. A Guangxi cohort was applied to verify differential expression. In vitro cell experiments were implemented to investigate the influence for proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, migration, and invasion of HCC cells after a knockdown of PUS1. Results PUS1 was significantly overexpressed in HCC tissues, and patients with high PUS1 were related to unpromising clinicopathological features. Survival analysis revealed high PUS1 expression was associated with a poor overall survival (OS) and 1 year-recurrence free survival (RFS), was an independent risk factor. Meanwhile, ROC curve showed that PUS1 had a diagnostic and prognostic significance to HCC. Functional enrichment analysis implied that PUS1 may be involved in metabolic pathways, mitochondrial function, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and some important carcinogenic pathways. Cell assays revealed that knockdown of PUS1 significantly constrained the migration, proliferation, invasion and improved the ROS level of HCC cells. Conclusion PUS1 may be a prognostic biomarker and a underlying treatment target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenlu Lan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinlei Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiwen Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongguang Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chuangye Han
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianyao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
- Jianyao Wang, Department of General Surgery, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Lianhua District, Shenzhen, 518026, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China, Email
| | - Guangzhi Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of High-Incidence-Tumor Prevention & Treatment (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Guangzhi Zhu, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-771-5356528, Fax +86-771-5350031, Email
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Chen CC, Xie XM, Zhao XK, Zuo S, Li HY. Krüppel-like Factor 13 Promotes HCC Progression by Transcriptional Regulation of HMGCS1-mediated Cholesterol Synthesis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:1125-1137. [PMID: 36381108 PMCID: PMC9634771 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Krüppel-like factor (KLF) has a role in the occurrence, development and metabolism of cancer. We aimed to explore the role and potential molecular mechanism of KLF13 in the growth and migration of liver cancer cells. METHODS The expression of KLF13 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues was higher than that in normal tissues according to analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Lentiviral plasmids were used for overexpression and plasmid knockdown of KLF13. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting were used to detect mRNA and protein expression in HCC tissues and cells. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, cell migration and invasion, and flow cytometry assays were used to assess the in vitro function of KLF13 in HCC cells. The effect of KLF13 on xenograft tumor growth in vivo was evaluated. The cholesterol content of HCC cells was determined by an indicator kit. A dual-luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) revealed the binding relationship between KLF13 and HMGCS1. RESULTS The expression of KLF13 was upregulated in HCC tissues and TCGA database. KLF13 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of HepG2 and Huh7 cells and increased the apoptosis of Huh7 cells. The opposite effects were observed with the overexpression of KLF13 in SK-Hep1 and MHCC-97H cells. The overexpression of KLF13 promoted the growth of HCC in nude mice and KLF13 transcription promoted the expression of HMGCS1 and the biosynthesis of cholesterol. KLF13 knockdown inhibited cholesterol biosynthesis mediated by HMGCS1 and inhibited the growth and metastasis of HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS KLF13 acted as a tumor promoter in HCC by positively regulating HMGCS1-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Chun Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xing-Ming Xie
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xue-Ke Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Shi Zuo
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Hai-Yang Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Corresponding author: Haiyang Li, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550000, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0015-5750. Tel/Fax: +86-851-6855119, E-mail:
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Epidemiologic, Genetic, Pathogenic, Metabolic, Epigenetic Aspects Involved in NASH-HCC: Current Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010023. [PMID: PMID: 36612019 PMCID: PMC9818030 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and is the sixth most frequent cancer in the world, being the third cause of cancer-related deaths. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by fatty infiltration, oxidative stress and necroinflammation of the liver, with or without fibrosis, which can progress to advanced liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC. Obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and diabetes exacerbates the course of NASH, which elevate the risk of HCC. The growing prevalence of obesity are related with increasing incidence of NASH, which may play a growing role in HCC epidemiology worldwide. In addition, HCC initiation and progression is driven by reprogramming of metabolism, which indicates growing appreciation of metabolism in the pathogenesis of this disease. Although no specific preventive pharmacological treatments have recommended for NASH, dietary restriction and exercise are recommended. This review focuses on the molecular connections between HCC and NASH, including genetic and risk factors, highlighting the metabolic reprogramming and aberrant epigenetic alterations in the development of HCC in NASH. Current therapeutic aspects of NASH/HCC are also reviewed.
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Jamialahmadi O, Salehabadi E, Hashemi-Najafabadi S, Motamedian E, Bagheri F, Mancina RM, Romeo S. Cellular Genome-Scale Metabolic Modeling Identifies New Potential Drug Targets Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2022; 26:671-682. [PMID: 36508280 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2022.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genome-scale metabolic modeling (GEM) is one of the key approaches to unpack cancer metabolism and for discovery of new drug targets. In this study, we report the Transcriptional Regulated Flux Balance Analysis-CORE (TRFBA-), an algorithm for GEM using key growth-correlated reactions using hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), an important global health burden, as a case study. We generated a HepG2 cell-specific GEM by integrating this cell line transcriptomic data with a generic human metabolic model to forecast potential drug targets for HCC. A total of 108 essential genes for growth were predicted by the TRFBA-CORE. These genes were enriched for metabolic pathways involved in cholesterol, sterol, and steroid biosynthesis. Furthermore, we silenced a predicted essential gene, 11-beta dehydrogenase hydroxysteroid type 2 (HSD11B2), in HepG2 cells resulting in a reduction in cell viability. To further identify novel potential drug targets in HCC, we examined the effect of nine drugs targeting the essential genes, and observed that most drugs inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells. Some of these drugs in this model performed better than Sorafenib, the first-line therapeutic against HCC. A HepG2 cell-specific GEM highlights sterol metabolism to be essential for cell growth. HSD11B2 downregulation results in lower cell growth. Most of the compounds, selected by drug repurposing approach, show a significant inhibitory effect on cell growth in a wide range of concentrations. These findings offer new molecular leads for drug discovery for hepatic cancer while also illustrating the importance of GEM and drug repurposing in cancer therapeutics innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oveis Jamialahmadi
- Wallenberg Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Biotechnology and Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Salehabadi
- Department of Biotechnology and Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sameereh Hashemi-Najafabadi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Motamedian
- Department of Biotechnology and Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Bagheri
- Department of Biotechnology and Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rosellina Margherita Mancina
- Wallenberg Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stefano Romeo
- Wallenberg Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy.,Cardiology Department, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Ablation of sphingosine kinase 2 suppresses fatty liver-associated hepatocellular carcinoma via downregulation of ceramide transfer protein. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:67. [PMID: 36333295 PMCID: PMC9636415 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of primary liver cancer, the third leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. With the increasing prevalence of metabolic conditions, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as the fastest-growing HCC risk factor, and it imposes an additional layer of difficulty in HCC management. Dysregulated hepatic lipids are generally believed to constitute a deleterious environment cultivating the development of NAFLD-associated HCC. However, exactly which lipids or lipid regulators drive this process remains elusive. We report herein that sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), a key sphingolipid metabolic enzyme, plays a critical role in NAFLD-associated HCC. Ablation of Sphk2 suppressed HCC development in NAFLD livers via inhibition of hepatocyte proliferation both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, SphK2 deficiency led to downregulation of ceramide transfer protein (CERT) that, in turn, decreased the ratio of pro-cancer sphingomyelin (SM) to anti-cancer ceramide. Overexpression of CERT restored hepatocyte proliferation, colony growth and cell cycle progression. In conclusion, the current study demonstrates that SphK2 is an essential lipid regulator in NAFLD-associated HCC, providing experimental evidence to support clinical trials of SphK2 inhibitors as systemic therapies against HCC.
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The altered lipidome of hepatocellular carcinoma. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:445-456. [PMID: 35131480 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in metabolic pathways are a hallmark of cancer. A deeper understanding of the contribution of different metabolites to carcinogenesis is thus vitally important to elucidate mechanisms of tumor initiation and progression to inform therapeutic strategies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide and its altered metabolic landscape is beginning to unfold with the advancement of technologies. In particular, characterization of the lipidome of human HCCs has accelerated, and together with biochemical analyses, are revealing recurrent patterns of alterations in glycerophospholipid, sphingolipid, cholesterol and bile acid metabolism. These widespread alterations encompass a myriad of lipid species with numerous roles affecting multiple hallmarks of cancer, including aberrant growth signaling, metastasis, evasion of cell death and immunosuppression. In this review, we summarize the current trends and findings of the altered lipidomic landscape of HCC and discuss their potential biological significance for hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Lv J, Xing C, Chen Y, Bian H, Lv N, Wang Z, Liu M, Su L. The STING in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases: Potential Therapeutic Targets in Inflammation-Carcinogenesis Pathway. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:1241. [PMID: 36297353 PMCID: PMC9611148 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an important chronic disease, is one of the major causes of high mortality and creates a substantial financial burden worldwide. The various immune cells in the liver, including macrophages, NK cells, dendritic cells, and the neutrophils involved in the innate immune response, trigger inflammation after recognizing the damage signaled from infection or injured cells and tissues. The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a critical molecule that binds to the cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) generated by the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) to initiate the innate immune response against infection. Previous studies have demonstrated that the cGAS-STING pathway plays a critical role in inflammatory, auto-immune, and anti-viral immune responses. Recently, studies have focused on the role of STING in liver diseases, the results implying that alterations in its activity may be involved in the pathogenesis of liver disorders. Here, we summarize the function of STING in the development of NAFLD and present the current inhibitors and agonists targeting STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Lv
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Chunlei Xing
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Yuhong Chen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Huihui Bian
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Nanning Lv
- Lianyungang Second People’s Hospital, Lianyungang 222002, China
| | - Zhibin Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200020, China
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Mingming Liu
- Lianyungang Second People’s Hospital, Lianyungang 222002, China
| | - Li Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
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Yuan J, Lv T, Yang J, Wu Z, Yan L, Yang J, Shi Y, Jiang L. The lipid transporter HDLBP promotes hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through BRAF-dependent epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Cancer Lett 2022; 549:215921. [PMID: 36122630 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis is a major cause of cancer mortality. However, little is known regarding the regulation of abnormal cholesterol metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis. Here, we show that the expression of high-density lipoprotein binding protein (HDLBP), a lipid transporter, is clinically correlated with tumor metastasis in HCC patients. Moreover, HDLBP was required for cholesterol-induced HCC metastasis. We revealed that knockdown and overexpression of HDLBP significantly inhibited and enhanced, respectively, the metastasis, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, coimmunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry screening uncovered BRAF as a protein target of HDLBP. HDLBP was found to promote EMT signaling in a BRAF-dependent manner. Furthermore, HDLBP interacts with BRAF and inhibits its ubiquitinated degradation by abrogating BRAF-ITCH interactions. Notably, further studies suggest that dabrafenib exhibited a greater metastasis-suppressive effect in HDLBP knockout HCC than isolated treatment. Overall, our findings imply that cholesterol-induced HDLBP contributes to the metastasis and invasion of HCC through BRAF-dependent EMT signaling and that HDLBP may be applied as a biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsheng Yuan
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Tao Lv
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhenru Wu
- Laboratory of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lvnan Yan
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiayin Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yujun Shi
- Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Liu T, Xu G, Liang L, Xiao X, Zhao Y, Bai Z. Pharmacological effects of Chinese medicine modulating NLRP3 inflammasomes in fatty liver treatment. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:967594. [PMID: 36160411 PMCID: PMC9492967 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.967594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a key contributing factor in the pathogenesis of fatty liver diseases (FLD), such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-associated liver diseases (ALDs). The NLRP3 inflammasome is widely present in the hepatic parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells, which are assembled and activated by sensing intracellular and extracellular danger signals resulting in the matures of IL-1β/IL-18 and pyroptosis. Moreover, the aberrant activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is considered the main factor to drives immune outbreaks in relation to hepatic injury, inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis. Therefore, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome may be a promising therapeutic target for FLD. Currently, accumulating evidence has revealed that a number of traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) exert beneficial effects on liver injury via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Here, we summarized the mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasomes in the progression of FLD, and TCM exerts beneficial effects on FLD via positive modulation of inflammation. We describe that TCM is a promising valuable resource for the prevention and treatment agents against FLD and has the potential to be developed into clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Liu
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Guizhou, China
| | - Guang Xu
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
| | - Longxin Liang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanling Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
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