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Sun B, Si N, Wei X, Wang H, Wang H, Liu Y, Jiang S, Liu H, Yang J, Xia B, Chen L, Bian B, Zhao H. Multi-omics reveals bufadienolide Q-markers of Bufonis Venenum based on antitumor activity and cardiovascular toxicity in zebrafish. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155914. [PMID: 39121534 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bufonis Venenum (BV) is a traditional animal-based Chinese medicine with therapeutic effects against cancer. However, its clinical use is significantly restricted due to associated cardiovascular risks. BV's value in China's market is typically assessed based on "content priority," focusing on indicator components. However, these components of BV possess both antitumor activity and toxicity, and the correlation between the antitumor activity and toxicity of BV has not yet been elucidated. PURPOSE This study employs an integrated multi-omics approach to identify bufadienolide Q-markers and explore the correlation between BV's antitumor activity and toxicity. The aim is to establish a more comprehensive method for BV's quality. METHODS Normal zebrafish and HepG2 xenograft zebrafish were chosen as activity and toxicity evaluation models. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with a linear ion trap orbitrap (LTQ-Orbitrap) mass spectrometry was used to quantify eight batches of BV and key "toxic and effective" components were screened out. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying the antitumor activity and cardiovascular toxicity of the key components in BV. RESULTS Eight key "toxic and effective" compounds were identified: resibufogenin, cinobufagin, arenobufagin, bufotalin, bufalin, gamabufotalin, desacetylcinobufagin, and telocinobufagin. The findings showed that bufalin and cinobufagin interfered with calcium homeostasis through CaV and CaSR, induced cardiotoxicity, and upregulated CASP9 to activate myocardial cell apoptosis. However, desacetylcinobufagin exhibited greater potential in terms of anti-tumor effects. Combining the results of untargeted and targeted metabolomics revealed that desacetylcinobufagin could have a callback effect on differential lipids and correct abnormal energy and amino acid metabolism caused by cancer, similar to cinobufagin and bufalin. Microscale thermophoresis (MST) ligand binding measurements also showed that the binding of desacetylcinobufagin to GPX4 has a more potent ability to induce ferroptosis in tumor cells compared to cinobufagin. CONCLUSION An innovative evaluation method based on the zebrafish was developed to investigate the relationship between the toxicity and efficacy of BV. This study identified toxicity and activity Q-markers and explored the mechanism between the two effects of BV. The research data could offer valuable insights into the efficacy of BV. Additionally, desacetylcinobufagin, an active ingredient with low toxicity, was found to enhance the quality of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Nan Si
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Xiaolu Wei
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Huijun Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Hongjie Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yuyang Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Huining Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jiaying Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Bo Xia
- Hunter Biotechnology Inc., Zhejiang Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Baolin Bian
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Haiyu Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
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Karwaciak I, Pastwińska J, Sałkowska A, Bachorz RA, Ratajewski M. Evaluation of the activity of cardiac glycosides on RORγ and RORγT nuclear receptors. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 759:110085. [PMID: 38971421 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110085] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac glycosides, derived from plants and animals, have been recognized since ancient times. These substances hinder the function of the sodium-potassium pump within eukaryotic cells. Many reports have shown that these compounds influence the activity of nuclear receptors. Thus, we assessed the effects of various cardiac glycosides at nontoxic concentrations on RORγ and RORγT. RORγT is a crucial protein involved in the differentiation of Th17 lymphocytes. Sixteen analyzed cardiac glycosides exhibited varying toxicities in HepG2 cells, all of which demonstrated agonistic effects on RORγ, as confirmed in the RORγ-HepG2 reporter cell line. The overexpression of both the RORγ and RORγT isoforms intensified the effects of these compounds. Additionally, these glycosides induced the expression of G6PC, a gene regulated by RORγ, in HepG2 cells. Subsequently, the effects of two endogenous cardiac glycosides (marinobufagenin and ouabain) and the three most potent glycosides (bufalin, oleandrin, and telecinobufagenin) were evaluated in Th17 primary lymphocytes. All of these compounds increased the expression of the IL17A, IL17F, IFNG, and CXCL10 genes, but they exhibited varying effects on GZMB and CCL20 expression. Molecular docking analysis revealed the robust binding affinity of cardiac glycosides for the ligand binding domain of the RORγ/RORγT receptors. Thus, we demonstrated that at nontoxic concentrations, cardiac glycosides have agonistic effects on RORγ/RORγT nuclear receptors, augmenting their activity. This potential can be harnessed to modulate the phenotype of IL17-expressing cells (e.g., Th17 or Tc17 lymphocytes) in adoptive therapy for combating various types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Karwaciak
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232, Lodz, Poland
| | - Joanna Pastwińska
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232, Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Sałkowska
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232, Lodz, Poland
| | - Rafał A Bachorz
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marcin Ratajewski
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232, Lodz, Poland.
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Wu XS, Luo XY, Li CC, Zhao XF, Zhang C, Chen XS, Lu ZF, Wu T, Yu HN, Peng C, Hu QQ, Shen H, Xu Y, Zhang Y. Discovery and pharmacological characterization of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline derivatives as RORγ inverse agonists against prostate cancer. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1964-1977. [PMID: 38698214 PMCID: PMC11336105 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01274-z] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor γ (RORγ) is regarded as an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of prostate cancer. Herein, we report the identification, optimization, and evaluation of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline derivatives as novel RORγ inverse agonists, starting from high throughput screening using a thermal stability shift assay (TSA). The representative compounds 13e (designated as XY039) and 14a (designated as XY077) effectively inhibited the RORγ transcriptional activity and exhibited excellent selectivity against other nuclear receptor subtypes. The structural basis for their inhibitory potency was elucidated through the crystallographic study of RORγ LBD complex with 13e. Both 13e and 14a demonstrated reasonable antiproliferative activity, potently inhibited colony formation and the expression of AR, AR regulated genes, and other oncogene in AR positive prostate cancer cell lines. Moreover, 13e and 14a effectively suppressed tumor growth in a 22Rv1 xenograft tumor model in mice. This work provides new and valuable lead compounds for further development of drugs against prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Shan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Xiao-Yu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Cheng-Chang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Xiao-Fan Zhao
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Xiao-Shan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhi-Fang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Hao-Nan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Chao Peng
- Jiangsu S&T Exchange Center with Foreign Countries, No. 175 Longpan Road, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Qing-Qing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Hui Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Yong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biocomputing, Center for Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 190 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510530 China; Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
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Chen Y, Anderson MT, Payne N, Santori FR, Ivanova NB. Nuclear Receptors and the Hidden Language of the Metabolome. Cells 2024; 13:1284. [PMID: 39120315 PMCID: PMC11311682 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151284] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) are a family of ligand-regulated transcription factors that control key aspects of development and physiology. The regulation of NHRs by ligands derived from metabolism or diet makes them excellent pharmacological targets, and the mechanistic understanding of how NHRs interact with their ligands to regulate downstream gene networks, along with the identification of ligands for orphan NHRs, could enable innovative approaches for cellular engineering, disease modeling and regenerative medicine. We review recent discoveries in the identification of physiologic ligands for NHRs. We propose new models of ligand-receptor co-evolution, the emergence of hormonal function and models of regulation of NHR specificity and activity via one-ligand and two-ligand models as well as feedback loops. Lastly, we discuss limitations on the processes for the identification of physiologic NHR ligands and emerging new methodologies that could be used to identify the natural ligands for the remaining 17 orphan NHRs in the human genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Chen
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (Y.C.); (M.T.A.); (N.P.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Matthew Tom Anderson
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (Y.C.); (M.T.A.); (N.P.)
| | - Nathaniel Payne
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (Y.C.); (M.T.A.); (N.P.)
| | - Fabio R. Santori
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (Y.C.); (M.T.A.); (N.P.)
| | - Natalia B. Ivanova
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (Y.C.); (M.T.A.); (N.P.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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5
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Wang H, Sun H, Huang J, Zhang Z, Cai G, Wang C, Xiao K, Xiong X, Zhang J, Liu P, Lu X, Feng W, Wang J. Therapeutic targeting ERRγ suppresses metastasis via extracellular matrix remodeling in small cell lung cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2024:10.1038/s44321-024-00108-z. [PMID: 39085398 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00108-z] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most aggressive and lethal type of lung cancer, characterized by limited treatment options, early and frequent metastasis. However, the determinants of metastasis in SCLC are poorly defined. Here, we show that estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERRγ) is overexpressed in metastatic SCLC tumors, and is positively associated with SCLC progression. ERRγ functions as an essential activator of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and cell adhesion, two critical steps in metastasis, by directly regulating the expression of major genes involved in these processes. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of ERRγ markedly reduces collagen production, cell-matrix adhesion, microfilament production, and eventually blocks SCLC cell invasion and tumor metastasis. Notably, ERRγ antagonists significantly suppressed tumor growth and metastasis and restored SCLC vulnerability to chemotherapy in multiple cell-derived and patient-derived xenograft models. Taken together, these findings establish ERRγ as an attractive target for metastatic SCLC and provide a potential pharmacological strategy for treating this lethal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huizi Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenhua Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guodi Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chaofan Wang
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, 510632, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Xiao
- Precision Medicine Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xiong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Thoracic Surgery Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, 510630, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peiqing Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyun Lu
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, #855 Xingye Avenue, 510632, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Weineng Feng
- Department of Pulmonary Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, 528000, Foshan, Guangdong, China.
| | - Junjian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China.
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6
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Zhou X, Wang G, Tian C, Du L, Prochownik EV, Li Y. Inhibition of DUSP18 impairs cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5851. [PMID: 38992029 PMCID: PMC11239938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50138-x] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells reprogram their metabolism to produce specialized metabolites that both fuel their own growth and license tumor immune evasion. However, the relationships between these functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report CRISPR screens in a mouse model of colo-rectal cancer (CRC) that implicates the dual specificity phosphatase 18 (DUSP18) in the establishment of tumor-directed immune evasion. Dusp18 inhibition reduces CRC growth rates, which correlate with high levels of CD8+ T cell activation. Mechanistically, DUSP18 dephosphorylates and stabilizes the USF1 bHLH-ZIP transcription factor. In turn, USF1 induces the SREBF2 gene, which allows cells to accumulate the cholesterol biosynthesis intermediate lanosterol and release it into the tumor microenvironment (TME). There, lanosterol uptake by CD8+ T cells suppresses the mevalonate pathway and reduces KRAS protein prenylation and function, which in turn inhibits their activation and establishes a molecular basis for tumor cell immune escape. Finally, the combination of an anti-PD-1 antibody and Lumacaftor, an FDA-approved small molecule inhibitor of DUSP18, inhibits CRC growth in mice and synergistically enhances anti-tumor immunity. Collectively, our findings support the idea that a combination of immune checkpoint and metabolic blockade represents a rationally-designed, mechanistically-based and potential therapy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Genxin Wang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Chenhui Tian
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Edward V Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, The Hillman Cancer Institute of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Youjun Li
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China.
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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7
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Gao W, Guo X, Sun L, Gai J, Cao Y, Zhang S. PKMYT1 knockdown inhibits cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes the drug sensitivity of triple-negative breast cancer cells to atorvastatin. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17749. [PMID: 39011373 PMCID: PMC11249011 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) as the most aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer is characterized by high cancer cell proliferation and poor patient prognosis. Abnormal lipid metabolism contributes to the malignant process of cancers. Study observed significantly enhanced cholesterol biosynthesis in TNBC. However, the mechanisms underlying the abnormal increase of cholesterol biosynthesis in TNBC are still unclear. Hence, we identified a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase family PKMYT1 as a key driver of cholesterol synthesis in TNBC cells. Aberrantly high-expressed PKMYT1 in TNBC was indicative of unfavorable prognostic outcomes. In addition, PKMYT1 promoted sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2)-mediated expression of enzymes related to cholesterol biosynthesis through activating the TNF/ TNF receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1)/AKT pathway. Notably, downregulation of PKMYT1 significantly inhibited the feedback upregulation of statin-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis, whereas knockdown of PKMYT1 promoted the drug sensitivity of atorvastatin in TNBC cells. Overall, our study revealed a novel function of PKMYT1 in TNBC cholesterol biosynthesis, providing a new target for targeting tumor metabolic reprogramming in the cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Gao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Linlin Sun
- Day Surgery Center, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Jinwei Gai
- Day Surgery Center, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Yinan Cao
- Graduate School of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shuqun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
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8
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Pourebrahim R, Montoya RH, Akiyama H, Ostermann L, Khazaei S, Muftuoglu M, Baran N, Zhao R, Lesluyes T, Liu B, Khoury JD, Gagea M, Van Loo P, Andreeff M. Age-specific induction of mutant p53 drives clonal hematopoiesis and acute myeloid leukemia in adult mice. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101558. [PMID: 38733986 PMCID: PMC11148800 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101558] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The investigation of the mechanisms behind p53 mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been limited by the lack of suitable mouse models, which historically have resulted in lymphoma rather than leukemia. This study introduces two new AML mouse models. One model induces mutant p53 and Mdm2 haploinsufficiency in early development, showing the role of Mdm2 in myeloid-biased hematopoiesis and AML predisposition, independent of p53. The second model mimics clonal hematopoiesis by inducing mutant p53 in adult hematopoietic stem cells, demonstrating that the timing of p53 mutation determines AML vs. lymphoma development. In this context, age-related changes in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) collaborate with mutant p53 to predispose toward myeloid transformation rather than lymphoma development. Our study unveils new insights into the cooperative impact of HSC age, Trp53 mutations, and Mdm2 haploinsufficiency on clonal hematopoiesis and the development of myeloid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Pourebrahim
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rafael Heinz Montoya
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hiroki Akiyama
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren Ostermann
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shayuan Khazaei
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muharrem Muftuoglu
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalia Baran
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ran Zhao
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tom Lesluyes
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph D Khoury
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mihai Gagea
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peter Van Loo
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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9
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Zheng J, Wang Q, Chen J, Cai G, Zhang Z, Zou H, Zou JX, Liu Q, Ji S, Shao G, Li H, Li S, Chen HW, Lu L, Yuan Y, Liu P, Wang J. Tumor mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation stimulated by the nuclear receptor RORγ represents an effective therapeutic opportunity in osteosarcoma. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101519. [PMID: 38692271 PMCID: PMC11148566 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common malignant bone tumor with a poor prognosis. Here, we show that the nuclear receptor RORγ may serve as a potential therapeutic target in OS. OS exhibits a hyperactivated oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) program, which fuels the carbon source to promote tumor progression. We found that RORγ is overexpressed in OS tumors and is linked to hyperactivated OXPHOS. RORγ induces the expression of PGC-1β and physically interacts with it to activate the OXPHOS program by upregulating the expression of respiratory chain component genes. Inhibition of RORγ strongly inhibits OXPHOS activation, downregulates mitochondrial functions, and increases ROS production, which results in OS cell apoptosis and ferroptosis. RORγ inverse agonists strongly suppressed OS tumor growth and progression and sensitized OS tumors to chemotherapy. Taken together, our results indicate that RORγ is a critical regulator of the OXPHOS program in OS and provides an effective therapeutic strategy for this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Jianghe Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Guodi Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhua Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Hongye Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - June X Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Qianqian Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Shufeng Ji
- Special Medical Service Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510280, P.R. China
| | - Guoli Shao
- Special Medical Service Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510280, P.R. China
| | - Hong Li
- Biomedical Laboratory, Guangzhou Jingke Life Science Institute, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510145, P.R. China
| | - Sheng Li
- Biomedical Laboratory, Guangzhou Jingke Life Science Institute, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510145, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Wu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - LinLin Lu
- Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, SAR, China
| | - Yanqiu Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China.
| | - Peiqing Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China.
| | - Junjian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China.
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10
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Tripathi S, Gupta E, Galande S. Statins as anti-tumor agents: A paradigm for repurposed drugs. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2078. [PMID: 38711272 PMCID: PMC11074523 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2078] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins, frequently prescribed medications, work by inhibiting the rate-limiting enzyme HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) in the mevalonate pathway to reduce cholesterol levels. Due to their multifaceted benefits, statins are being adapted for use as cost-efficient, safe and effective anti-cancer treatments. Several studies have shown that specific types of cancer are responsive to statin medications since they rely on the mevalonate pathway for their growth and survival. RECENT FINDINGS Statin are a class of drugs known for their potent inhibition of cholesterol production and are typically prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, there is growing interest in repurposing statins for the treatment of malignant neoplastic diseases, often in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The mechanism behind statin treatment includes targeting apoptosis through the BCL2 signaling pathway, regulating the cell cycle via the p53-YAP axis, and imparting epigenetic modulations by altering methylation patterns on CpG islands and histone acetylation by downregulating DNMTs and HDACs respectively. Notably, some studies have suggested a potential chemo-preventive effect, as decreased occurrence of tumor relapse and enhanced survival rate were reported in patients undergoing long-term statin therapy. However, the definitive endorsement of statin usage in cancer therapy hinges on population based clinical studies with larger patient cohorts and extended follow-up periods. CONCLUSIONS The potential of anti-cancer properties of statins seems to reach beyond their influence on cholesterol production. Further investigations are necessary to uncover their effects on cancer promoting signaling pathways. Given their distinct attributes, statins might emerge as promising contenders in the fight against tumorigenesis, as they appear to enhance the efficacy and address the limitations of conventional cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Tripathi
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
| | - Ekta Gupta
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
| | - Sanjeev Galande
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Life SciencesShiv Nadar Institution of EminenceGautam Buddha NagarIndia
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11
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Guo Z, Li H, Yu W, Ren Y, Zhu Z. Insights into the effect of benzotriazoles in liver using integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 187:108716. [PMID: 38723456 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Benzotriazoles (BTRs) are a class of benzoheterocyclic chemicals that are frequently used as metal-corrosive inhibitors, both in industry and daily use. However, the exposure effect information on BTRs remains relatively limited. In this study, an integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic approach was utilized to evaluate the effect of three BTRs, benzotriazole, 6-chloro-1-hydroxi-benzotriazole, and 1-hydroxy-benzotriazole, in the mouse liver with results showing disrupted basal metabolic processes and vitamin and cofactor metabolism after 28 days. The expression of several genes that are related to the inflammatory response and aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathways, such as Gstt2 and Arntl, was altered by the exposure to BTRs. Exposure to BTRs also affected metabolites and genes that are involved in the immune system and xenobiotic responses. The altered expression of several cytochrome P450 family genes reveal a potential detoxification mechanism in the mouse liver. Taken together, our findings provide new insights into the multilayer response of the mouse liver to BTRs exposure as well as a resource for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms by which the response occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeqin Guo
- Medical College, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China.
| | - Huimin Li
- Medical College, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China
| | - Wenmin Yu
- Medical College, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China
| | - Yaguang Ren
- Medical College, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhu
- Medical College, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China; College of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, 332000, China.
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12
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Jiang L, Liu X, Liang X, Dai S, Wei H, Guo M, Chen Z, Xiao D, Chen Y. Structural characterization of the DNA binding mechanism of retinoic acid-related orphan receptor gamma. Structure 2024; 32:467-475.e3. [PMID: 38309263 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Retinoic acid-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ) plays critical roles in regulating various biological processes and has been linked to immunodeficiency disorders and cancers. DNA recognition is essential for RORγ to exert its functions. However, the underlying mechanism of the DNA binding by RORγ remains unclear. In this study, we present the crystal structure of the complex of RORγ1 DNA-binding domain (RORγ1-DBD)/direct repeat DNA element DR2 at 2.3 Å resolution. We demonstrate that RORγ1-DBD binds the DR2 motif as a homodimer, with the C-terminal extension (CTE) region of RORγ1-DBD contributing to the DNA recognition and the formation of dimeric interface. Further studies reveal that REV-ERB-DBD and RXR-DBD, also bind the DR2 site as a homodimer, while NR4A2-DBD binds DR2 as a monomer. Our research uncovers a binding mechanism of RORγ1 to the DR2 site and provides insights into the biological functions of RORγ1 and the broader RORs subfamily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longying Jiang
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueke Liu
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xujun Liang
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shuyan Dai
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hudie Wei
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhuchu Chen
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Desheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Pathology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, State Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Anticancer Drugs, Department of Oncology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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13
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Dong J, Kong L, Wang S, Xia M, Zhang Y, Wu J, Yang F, Zuo S, Wei J. Oncolytic adenovirus encoding apolipoprotein A1 suppresses metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer in mice. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:102. [PMID: 38566092 PMCID: PMC10988920 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03011-0] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism is associated with the metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) is widely recognized for its pivotal role in regulating cholesterol efflux and maintaining cellular cholesterol homeostasis. However, further exploration is needed to determine whether it inhibits TNBC metastasis by affecting cholesterol metabolism. Additionally, it is necessary to investigate whether ApoA1-based oncolytic virus therapy can be used to treat TNBC. METHODS In vitro experiments and mouse breast cancer models were utilized to evaluate the molecular mechanism of ApoA1 in regulating cholesterol efflux and inhibiting breast cancer progression and metastasis. The gene encoding ApoA1 was inserted into the adenovirus genome to construct a recombinant adenovirus (ADV-ApoA1). Subsequently, the efficacy of ADV-ApoA1 in inhibiting the growth and metastasis of TNBC was evaluated in several mouse models, including orthotopic breast cancer, spontaneous breast cancer, and human xenografts. In addition, a comprehensive safety assessment of Syrian hamsters and rhesus monkeys injected with oncolytic adenovirus was conducted. RESULTS This study found that dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis is critical for the progression and metastasis of TNBC. In a mouse orthotopic model of TNBC, a high-cholesterol diet promoted lung and liver metastasis, which was associated with keratin 14 (KRT14), a protein responsible for TNBC metastasis. Furthermore, studies have shown that ApoA1, a cholesterol reverse transporter, inhibits TNBC metastasis by regulating the cholesterol/IKBKB/FOXO3a/KRT14 axis. Moreover, ADV-ApoA1 was found to promote cholesterol efflux, inhibit tumor growth, reduce lung metastasis, and prolonged the survival of mice with TNBC. Importantly, high doses of ADV-ApoA1 administered intravenously and subcutaneously were well tolerated in rhesus monkeys and Syrian hamsters. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a promising oncolytic virus treatment strategy for TNBC based on targeting dysregulated cholesterol metabolism. It also establishes a basis for subsequent clinical trials of ADV-ApoA1 in the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China
| | - Lingkai Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China
| | - Shiqun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mao Xia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Yenan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China
| | - Jingyi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China
| | - Fuming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China.
| | - Shuguang Zuo
- Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis and Application, Affiliated Liutie Central Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China.
| | - Jiwu Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210093, P.R. China.
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14
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Liu Q, Wang J, Sun H, Zhang Z, Wang H, Ma S, Zhang C, Wang Q, Cai G, Zheng J, Nie Y, Liu P, Wang J. Targeting RORγ inhibits the growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Ther 2024; 32:749-765. [PMID: 38310356 PMCID: PMC10928303 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 80%-90% of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) occur in a premalignant environment of fibrosis and abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM), highlighting an essential role of ECM in the tumorigenesis and progress of HCC. However, the determinants of ECM in HCC are poorly defined. Here, we show that nuclear receptor RORγ is highly expressed and amplified in HCC tumors. RORγ functions as an essential activator of the matrisome program via directly driving the expression of major ECM genes in HCC cells. Elevated RORγ increases fibronectin-1 deposition, cell-matrix adhesion, and collagen production, creating a favorable microenvironment to boost liver cancer metastasis. Moreover, RORγ antagonists effectively inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in multiple HCC xenografts and immune-intact models, and they effectively sensitize HCC tumors to sorafenib therapy in mice. Notably, elevated RORγ expression is associated with ECM remodeling and metastasis in patients with HCC. Taken together, we identify RORγ as a key player of ECM remodeling in HCC and as an attractive therapeutic target for advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Junhua Wang
- Clinical Research Institute, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Huizi Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhua Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Hong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, China
| | - Chenxi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Guodi Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Jianwei Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Yichu Nie
- Clinical Research Institute, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan 528000, China.
| | - Peiqing Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China.
| | - Junjian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China.
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15
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Matsumoto F, Yokogami K, Yamada A, Moritake H, Watanabe T, Yamashita S, Sato Y, Takeshima H. Targeting cholesterol biosynthesis for AT/RT: comprehensive expression analysis and validation in newly established AT/RT cell line. Hum Cell 2024; 37:523-530. [PMID: 38329694 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-01022-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid (AT/RT) is a rare and highly malignant tumor of the central nervous system (CNS). It is most commonly found in children less than 5 years of age and is associated with inactivation of loss of function of SMARCB1/INI1. An experimental model for AT/RT is necessary to develop new and effective therapies. We established a patient-derived new cell line (MZ611ATRT), which showed loss of BAF-47. MZ611ATRT genetically features somatic heterozygous deletion of SMARCB1 and single nucleotide deletion of the residual allele, exon 5 ([c.541delC]), resulting in a stop codon at codon 954 by frameshift. We assessed the RNA-sequencing data of the other two AT/RT cell lines with forced expression of SMARCB1 available from public databases. We found SMARCB1 overexpression significantly down-regulates the expression of a group of enzymes related to cholesterol biosynthesis. Simvastatin was highly sensitive against MZ611ATRT cells and induced apoptosis (IC50 was 3.098 µM for MZ611ATRT, 41.88uM for U-87 MG, 23.34uM for IOMM-Lee, and 18.12uM for U-251 MG.). Pathways involved in cholesterol biosynthesis may be new targets for adjuvant therapy of AT/RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumitaka Matsumoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.
| | - Kiyotaka Yokogami
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Ai Yamada
- Division of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Moritake
- Division of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Takashi Watanabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Shinji Yamashita
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Sato
- Division of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, University of Miyazaki Hospital, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hideo Takeshima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
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16
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Xu WH, Zhang T, Zhou Y, Mao Y. Fluvastatin prevents lung metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer by triggering autophagy via the RhoB/PI3K/mTOR pathway. Exp Cell Res 2024; 435:113893. [PMID: 38123008 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113893] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer is more common among younger than older women and is associated with the poorest survival outcomes of all breast cancer types. Fluvastatin inhibits tumour progression and induces the autophagy of breast cancer cells; however, the role of autophagy in fluvastatin-induced inhibition of breast cancer metastasis is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine this mechanism. The effect of fluvastatin on human hormone receptor-negative breast cancer cells was evaluated in vitro via migration and wound healing assays, western blotting, and morphological measurements, as well as in vivo using a mouse xenograft model. Chloroquine, a prophylactic medication used to prevent malaria in humans was used as an autophagy inhibitor. We found that fluvastatin administration effectively prevented the migration/invasion of triple-negative breast cancer cells, an effect that was largely dependent on the induction of autophagy. Administration of the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine prevented the fluvastatin-induced suppression of lung metastasis in the nude mouse model. Furthermore, fluvastatin increased Ras homolog family member B (RhoB) expression, and the autophagy and anti-metastatic activity induced by fluvastatin were predominantly dependent on the regulation of RhoB through the protein kinase B-mammalian target of rapamycin (Akt-mTOR) signaling pathway. These results suggest that fluvastatin inhibits the metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer cells by modulating autophagy via the up regulation of RhoB through the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. Fluvastatin may be a promising therapeutic option for patients with triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Huan Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Hefeng road 1000, Wuxi, 214062, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Hefeng road 1000, 214062, China
| | - Yunhai Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Zhongshan road 68, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Yong Mao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Hefeng road 1000, Wuxi, 214062, China.
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17
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Fang W, Zheng J, Deng L, An Y, Rong D, Wei J, Xiong XF, Wang J, Wang Y. Discovery of the First-in-Class RORγ Covalent Inhibitors for Treatment of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1481-1499. [PMID: 38227771 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Nuclear receptor receptor-related orphan receptor γ (RORγ) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor and has been established as a key player in castration-resistant prostate cancers (CRPC) by driving androgen receptor (AR) overexpression, representing a potential therapeutical target for advanced prostate cancers. Here, we report the identification of the first-in-class RORγ covalent inhibitor 29 via the structure-based drug design approach following structure-activity relationship (SAR) exploration. Mass spectrometry assay validated its covalent inhibition mechanism. Compound 29 significantly inhibited RORγ transcriptional activity and remarkably suppressed the expression levels of AR and AR-targeted genes. Compound 29 also exhibited much superior activity in inhibiting the proliferation and colony formation and inducing apoptosis of the CRPC cell lines relative to the positive control 2 and noncovalent control 33. Importantly, it markedly suppressed the tumor growth in a 22Rv1 mouse tumor xenograft model with good safety. These results clearly demonstrate that 29 is a highly potent and selective RORγ covalent inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jianwei Zheng
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lin Deng
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yana An
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Deqin Rong
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jianwei Wei
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Xiong
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Junjian Wang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuanxiang Wang
- Balance-Based Drug Discovery Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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18
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Wangen C, Raithel A, Tillmanns J, Gege C, Herrmann A, Vitt D, Kohlhof H, Marschall M, Hahn F. Validation of nuclear receptor RORγ isoform 1 as a novel host-directed antiviral target based on the modulation of cholesterol levels. Antiviral Res 2024; 221:105769. [PMID: 38056603 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105769] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Currently, the clinically approved repertoire of antiviral drugs predominantly comprises direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). However, the use of DAAs is frequently limited by adverse effects, restriction to individual virus species, or the induction of viral drug resistance. These issues will likely be resolved by the introduction of host-directed antivirals (HDAs) targeting cellular proteins crucial for viral replication. However, experiences with the development of antiviral HDAs and clinical applications are still in their infancy. With the present study, we explored the human nuclear receptor and transcription factor RORγ isoform 1 (RORγ1), a member of the retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor (ROR) family, as a putative target of antiviral HDAs. To this end, cell culture models were used to investigate major viral human pathogens, i.e. the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), varicella zoster virus (VZV) and human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1). Our results demonstrated (i) an antiviral activity of the clinically relevant RORγ modulators cedirogant and others, (ii) that isoform RORγ1 acts as the responsible determinant and drug target in the analyzed cell culture-based models, (iii) a selectivity of the antiviral effect for RORγ1 over related receptors RORα and RORβ, (iv) a late-phase inhibition exerted by cedirogant in HCMV replication and (v) a mechanistic link to the cellular cholesterol biosynthesis. Combined, the data highlight this novel RORγ-specific antiviral targeting concept and the developmental potential of RORγ-directed small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wangen
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Andrea Raithel
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Julia Tillmanns
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | | | - Alexandra Herrmann
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany; Immunic AG, Gräfelfing, Germany.
| | | | | | - Manfred Marschall
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Friedrich Hahn
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
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19
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Erkner E, Hentrich T, Schairer R, Fitzel R, Secker-Grob KA, Jeong J, Keppeler H, Korkmaz F, Schulze-Hentrich JM, Lengerke C, Schneidawind D, Schneidawind C. The RORɣ/SREBP2 pathway is a master regulator of cholesterol metabolism and serves as potential therapeutic target in t(4;11) leukemia. Oncogene 2024; 43:281-293. [PMID: 38030791 PMCID: PMC10798886 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02903-3] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulated cholesterol homeostasis promotes tumorigenesis and progression. Therefore, metabolic reprogramming constitutes a new hallmark of cancer. However, until today, only few therapeutic approaches exist to target this pathway due to the often-observed negative feedback induced by agents like statins leading to controversially increased cholesterol synthesis upon inhibition. Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) are key transcription factors regulating the synthesis of cholesterol and fatty acids. Since SREBP2 is difficult to target, we performed pharmacological inhibition of retinoic acid receptor (RAR)-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ), which acts upstream of SREBP2 and serves as master regulator of the cholesterol metabolism. This resulted in an inactivated cholesterol-related gene program with significant downregulation of cholesterol biosynthesis. Strikingly, these effects were more pronounced than the effects of fatostatin, a direct SREBP2 inhibitor. Upon RORγ inhibition, RNA sequencing showed strongly increased cholesterol efflux genes leading to leukemic cell death and cell cycle changes in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Combinatorial treatment of t(4;11) cells with the RORγ inhibitor showed additive effects with cytarabine and even strong anti-leukemia synergism with atorvastatin by circumventing the statin-induced feedback. Our results suggest a novel therapeutic strategy to inhibit tumor-specific cholesterol metabolism for the treatment of t(4;11) leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Erkner
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Hentrich
- Department of Genetics/Epigenetics, Faculty NT, Saarland University, Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Rebekka Schairer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Rahel Fitzel
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Kathy-Ann Secker-Grob
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Johan Jeong
- Process Cell Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Hildegard Keppeler
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Fulya Korkmaz
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Claudia Lengerke
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Schneidawind
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Corina Schneidawind
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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20
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Youssef R, Maniar R, Khan J, Mesa H. Metabolic Interplay in the Tumor Microenvironment: Implications for Immune Function and Anticancer Response. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9753-9767. [PMID: 38132455 PMCID: PMC10742411 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45120609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors exhibit rapid growth and high metabolic rates, similar to embryonic stem cells, and depend on aerobic glycolysis, known as the "Warburg effect". This understanding has enabled the use of radiolabeled glucose analogs in tumor staging and therapeutic response assessment via PET scans. Traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy target rapidly dividing cells, causing significant toxicity. Despite immunotherapy's impact on solid tumor treatment, gaps remain, leading to research on cancer cell evasion of immune response and immune tolerance induction via interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME, consisting of immune cells, fibroblasts, vessels, and the extracellular matrix, regulates tumor progression and therapy responses. TME-targeted therapies aim to transform this environment from supporting tumor growth to impeding it and fostering an effective immune response. This review examines the metabolic disparities between immune cells and cancer cells, their impact on immune function and therapeutic targeting, the TME components, and the complex interplay between cancer cells and nontumoral cells. The success of TME-targeted therapies highlights their potential to achieve better cancer control or even a cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Youssef
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Rohan Maniar
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jaffar Khan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hector Mesa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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21
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Zhu M, Zhao Q, Zhang W, Xu H, Zhang B, Zhang S, Duan Y, Liao C, Yang X, Chen Y. Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin inhibits the development of triple negative breast cancer by enhancing antitumor immunity. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111168. [PMID: 37939513 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is regarded as one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer. Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) has been used as a therapeutic agent for Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC). However, the exact actions and mechanisms of HP-β-CD on TNBC are not fully understood. To examine the influence of HP-β-CD on the proliferation and migration of TNBC cell lines, particularly 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 cells, a range of assays, including MTT, scratch, cell cycle, and clonal formation assays, were performed. Furthermore, the effectiveness of HP-β-CD in the treatment of TNBC was assessed in vivo using a 4T1 tumor-bearing BALB/c mouse model. We demonstrated the anti-proliferation and anti-migration effect of HP-β-CD on TNBC both in vitro and in vivo. High cholesterol diet can attenuate HP-β-CD-inhibited TNBC growth. Mechanistically, HP-β-CD reduced tumor cholesterol levels by increasing ABCA1 and ABCG1-mediated cholesterol reverse transport. HP-β-CD promoted the infiltration of T cells into the tumor microenvironment (TME) and improved exhaustion of CD8+ T cells via reducing immunological checkpoint molecules expression. Additionally, HP-β-CD inhibited the recruitment of tumor associated macrophages to the TME via reducing CCL2-p38MAPK-NF-κB axis. HP-β-CD also inhibited the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of TNBC cells mediated by the TGF-β signaling pathway. In summary, our study suggests that HP-β-CD effectively inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of TNBC, highlighting HP-β-CD may hold promise as a potential antitumor drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongmei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Baotong Zhang
- Department of Human Cell Biology and Genetics, Southern University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Yajun Duan
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Chenzhong Liao
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiaoxiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China.
| | - Yuanli Chen
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China.
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22
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Lu J, Chen S, Bai X, Liao M, Qiu Y, Zheng LL, Yu H. Targeting cholesterol metabolism in Cancer: From molecular mechanisms to therapeutic implications. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115907. [PMID: 37931664 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential component of cell membranes and helps to maintain their structure and function. Abnormal cholesterol metabolism has been linked to the development and progression of tumors. Changes in cholesterol metabolism triggered by internal or external stimuli can promote tumor growth. During metastasis, tumor cells require large amounts of cholesterol to support their growth and colonization of new organs. Recent research has shown that cholesterol metabolism is reprogrammed during tumor development, and this can also affect the anti-tumor activity of immune cells in the surrounding environment. However, identifying the specific targets in cholesterol metabolism that regulate cancer progression and the tumor microenvironment is still a challenge. Additionally, exploring the potential of combining statin drugs with other therapies for different types of cancer could be a worthwhile avenue for future drug development. In this review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms of cholesterol and its derivatives in cell metabolism and the tumor microenvironment, and discuss specific targets and relevant therapeutic agents that inhibit aspects of cholesterol homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Siwei Chen
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Xuejiao Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Minru Liao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuling Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.
| | - Ling-Li Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610500, China.
| | - Haiyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China.
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23
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Zhao N, Qu C, Yang Y, Li H, Li Y, Zhu H, Long Z. Identification of a cholesterol metabolism-related prognostic signature for multiple myeloma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19395. [PMID: 37938654 PMCID: PMC10632470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46426-z] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a prevalent hematological malignancy that poses significant challenges for treatment. Dysregulated cholesterol metabolism has been linked to tumorigenesis, disease progression, and therapy resistance. However, the correlation between cholesterol metabolism-related genes (CMGs) and the prognosis of MM remains unclear. Univariate Cox regression analysis and LASSO Cox regression analysis were applied to construct an overall survival-related signature based on the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The signature was validated using three external datasets. Enrichment analysis and immune analysis were performed between two risk groups. Furthermore, an optimal nomogram was established for clinical application, and its performance was assessed by the calibration curve and C-index. A total of 6 CMGs were selected to establish the prognostic signature, including ANXA2, CHKA, NSDHL, PMVK, SCAP and SQLE. The prognostic signature demonstrated good prognostic performance and correlated with several important clinical parameters, including number of transplants, International Staging System, albumin, beta2-Microglobulin and lactate dehydrogenase levels. The function analysis and immune analysis revealed that the metabolic pathways and immunologic status were associated with risk score. The nomogram incorporating the signature along with other clinical characteristics was constructed and the discrimination was verified by the calibration curve and C-index. Our findings indicated the potential prognostic connotation of cholesterol metabolism in MM. The development and validation of the prognostic signature is expected to aid in predicting prognosis and guiding precision treatment for MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Chunxia Qu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Huihui Li
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Yueyue Li
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China
| | - Hongbo Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China.
| | - Zhiguo Long
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, China.
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24
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Pastwińska J, Karwaciak I, Karaś K, Bachorz RA, Ratajewski M. RORγT agonists as immune modulators in anticancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:189021. [PMID: 37951483 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189021] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
RORγT is a transcription factor that directs the development of Th17 lymphocytes and other IL-17-expressing cells (e.g., Tc17 and ILC3 cells). These cells are involved in the body's defense against pathogenic bacteria and fungi, but they also participate in maintaining the proinflammatory environment in some autoimmune diseases and play a role in the immune system's response to cancer. Similar to other members of the nuclear receptor superfamily, the activity of RORγT is regulated by low-molecular-weight ligands. Therefore, extensive efforts have been dedicated to identifying inverse agonists that diminish the activity of this receptor and subsequently inhibit the development of autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, in the pursuit of an ideal inverse agonist, the development of agonists has been overlooked. It is important to remember that these types of compounds, by stimulating lymphocytes expressing RORγT (Th17 and Tc17), can enhance the immune system's response to tumors. In this review, we present recent advancements in the biology of RORγT agonists and their potential application in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Pastwińska
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland
| | - Iwona Karwaciak
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland
| | - Kaja Karaś
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland
| | - Rafał A Bachorz
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marcin Ratajewski
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland.
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25
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Piekuś-Słomka N, Mocan LP, Shkreli R, Grapă C, Denkiewicz K, Wesolowska O, Kornek M, Spârchez Z, Słomka A, Crăciun R, Mocan T. Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover: The Role of Statins in Liver Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5100. [PMID: 37894467 PMCID: PMC10605163 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Statins, which are inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, are an effective pharmacological tool for lowering blood cholesterol levels. This property makes statins one of the most popular drugs used primarily to prevent cardiovascular diseases, where hyperlipidemia is a significant risk factor that increases mortality. Nevertheless, studies conducted mainly in the last decade have shown that statins might prevent and treat liver cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. This narrative review summarizes the scientific achievements to date regarding the role of statins in liver tumors. Molecular biology tools have revealed that cell growth and proliferation can be inhibited by statins, which further inhibit angiogenesis. Clinical studies, supported by meta-analysis, confirm that statins are highly effective in preventing and treating hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. However, this effect may depend on the statin's type and dose, and more clinical trials are required to evaluate clinical effects. Moreover, their potential hepatotoxicity is a significant caveat for using statins in clinical practice. Nevertheless, this group of drugs, initially developed to prevent cardiovascular diseases, is now a key candidate in hepato-oncology patient management. The description of new drug-statin-like structures, e.g., with low toxicity to liver cells, may bring another clinically significant improvement to current cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Piekuś-Słomka
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Jurasza 2, 85-089 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Lavinia Patricia Mocan
- Department of Histology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Rezarta Shkreli
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Aldent University, 1001-1028 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Cristiana Grapă
- Department of Physiology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Kinga Denkiewicz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.D.); (O.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Oliwia Wesolowska
- Department of Pathophysiology, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.D.); (O.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Miroslaw Kornek
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn of the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Zeno Spârchez
- 3rd Medical Department, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Artur Słomka
- Department of Pathophysiology, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (K.D.); (O.W.); (A.S.)
| | - Rareș Crăciun
- 3rd Medical Department, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Gastroenterology, “Octavian Fodor” Institute for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Mocan
- Department of Gastroenterology, “Octavian Fodor” Institute for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- UBBMed Department, Babeș-Bolyai University, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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26
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Jamal M, Lei Y, He H, Zeng X, Bangash HI, Xiao D, Shao L, Zhou F, Zhang Q. CCR9 overexpression promotes T-ALL progression by enhancing cholesterol biosynthesis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1257289. [PMID: 37745085 PMCID: PMC10512069 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1257289] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy of the lymphoid progenitor cells, contributing to ∼ 20% of the total ALL cases, with a higher prevalence in adults than children. Despite the important role of human T-ALL cell lines in understanding the pathobiology of the disease, a detailed comparison of the tumorigenic potentials of two commonly used T-ALL cell lines, MOLT4 and JURKAT cells, is still lacking. Methodology: In the present study, NOD-Prkdc scid IL2rgd ull (NTG) mice were intravenously injected with MOLT4, JURKAT cells, and PBS as a control. The leukemiac cell homing/infiltration into the bone marrow, blood, liver and spleen was investigated for bioluminescence imaging, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry staining. Gene expression profiling of the two cell lines was performed via RNA-seq to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). CCR9 identified as a DEG, was further screened for its role in invasion and metastasis in both cell lines in vitro. Moreover, a JURKAT cell line with overexpressed CCR9 (Jurkat-OeCCR9) was investigated for T-ALL formation in the NTG mice as compared to the GFP control. Jurkat-OeCCR9 cells were then subjected to transcriptome analysis to identify the genes and pathways associated with the upregulation of CCR9 leading to enhanced tumirogenesis. The DEGs of the CCR9-associated upregulation were validated both at mRNA and protein levels. Simvastatin was used to assess the effect of cholesterol biosynthesis inhibition on the aggressiveness of T-ALL cells. Results: Comparison of the leukemogenic potentials of the two T-ALL cell lines showed the relatively higher leukemogenic potential of MOLT4 cells, characterized by their enhanced tissue infiltration in NOD-PrkdcscidIL2rgdull (NTG) mice. Transcriptmoe analysis of the two cell lines revealed numerous DEGs, including CCR9, enriched in vital signaling pathways associated with growth and proliferation. Notably, the upregulation of CCR9 also promoted the tissue infiltration of JURKAT cells in vitro and in NTG mice. Transcriptome analysis revealed that CCR9 overexpression facilitated cholesterol production by upregulating the expression of the transcriptional factor SREBF2, and the downstream genes: MSMO1, MVD, HMGCS1, and HMGCR, which was then corroborated at the protein levels. Notably, simvastatin treatment reduced the migration of the CCR9-overexpressing JURKAT cells, suggesting the importance of cholesterol in T-ALL progression. Conclusions: This study highlights the distinct tumorigenic potentials of two T-ALL cell lines and reveals CCR9-regulated enhanced cholesterol biosynthesis in T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Jamal
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufei Lei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hengjing He
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingruo Zeng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hina Iqbal Bangash
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Di Xiao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Shao
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fuling Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Quiping Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Xiao M, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Li J, Xu H, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Functional significance of cholesterol metabolism in cancer: from threat to treatment. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1982-1995. [PMID: 37653037 PMCID: PMC10545798 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01079-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential structural component of membranes that contributes to membrane integrity and fluidity. Cholesterol homeostasis plays a critical role in the maintenance of cellular activities. Recently, increasing evidence has indicated that cholesterol is a major determinant by modulating cell signaling events governing the hallmarks of cancer. Numerous studies have shown the functional significance of cholesterol metabolism in tumorigenesis, cancer progression and metastasis through its regulatory effects on the immune response, ferroptosis, autophagy, cell stemness, and the DNA damage response. Here, we summarize recent literature describing cholesterol metabolism in cancer cells, including the cholesterol metabolism pathways and the mutual regulatory mechanisms involved in cancer progression and cholesterol metabolism. We also discuss various drugs targeting cholesterol metabolism to suggest new strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Xiao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jialin Li
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Center Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Pancreatic Center Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Liu C, Chen H, Hu B, Shi J, Chen Y, Huang K. New insights into the therapeutic potentials of statins in cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1188926. [PMID: 37484027 PMCID: PMC10359995 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1188926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread clinical use of statins has contributed to significant reductions of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Increasing preclinical and epidemiological evidences have revealed that dyslipidemia is an important risk factor for carcinogenesis, invasion and metastasis, and that statins as powerful inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase can exert prevention and intervention effects on cancers, and promote sensitivity to anti-cancer drugs. The anti-cancer mechanisms of statins include not only inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis, but also their pleiotropic effects in modulating angiogenesis, apoptosis, autophagy, tumor metastasis, and tumor microenvironment. Moreover, recent clinical studies have provided growing insights into the therapeutic potentials of statins and the feasibility of combining statins with other anti-cancer agents. Here, we provide an updated review on the application potential of statins in cancer prevention and treatment and summarize the underneath mechanisms, with focuses on data from clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyu Liu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bicheng Hu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajian Shi
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuchen Chen
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Tongji-RongCheng Biomedical Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Gu H, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Qu H, Li Y, Ahmed AA, Liu HY, Hu P, Cai D. Hepatic Anti-Oxidative Genes CAT and GPX4 Are Epigenetically Modulated by RORγ/NRF2 in Alphacoronavirus-Exposed Piglets. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1305. [PMID: 37372035 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061305] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As a member of alpha-coronaviruses, PEDV could lead to severe diarrhea and dehydration in newborn piglets. Given that lipid peroxides in the liver are key mediators of cell proliferation and death, the role and regulation of endogenous lipid peroxide metabolism in response to coronavirus infection need to be illuminated. The enzymatic activities of SOD, CAT, mitochondrial complex-I, complex-III, and complex-V, along with the glutathione and ATP contents, were significantly decreased in the liver of PEDV piglets. In contrast, the lipid peroxidation biomarkers, malondialdehyde, and ROS were markedly elevated. Moreover, we found that the peroxisome metabolism was inhibited by the PEDV infection using transcriptome analysis. These down-regulated anti-oxidative genes, including GPX4, CAT, SOD1, SOD2, GCLC, and SLC7A11, were further validated by qRT-PCR and immunoblotting. Because the nuclear receptor RORγ-driven MVA pathway is critical for LPO, we provided new evidence that RORγ also controlled the genes CAT and GPX4 involved in peroxisome metabolism in the PEDV piglets. We found that RORγ directly binds to these two genes using ChIP-seq and ChIP-qPCR analysis, where PEDV strongly repressed the binding enrichments. The occupancies of histone active marks such as H3K9/27ac and H3K4me1/2, together with active co-factor p300 and polymerase II at the locus of CAT and GPX4, were significantly decreased. Importantly, PEDV infection disrupted the physical association between RORγ and NRF2, facilitating the down-regulation of the CAT and GPX4 genes at the transcriptional levels. RORγ is a potential factor in modulating the CAT and GPX4 gene expressions in the liver of PEDV piglets by interacting with NRF2 and histone modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yaya Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yahui Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Huan Qu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yanhua Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Abdelkareem A Ahmed
- Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala 56022, Sudan
| | - Hao-Yu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ping Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Demin Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Wang J, Chen Y, Luo Z, Huang Q, Zhang Y, Ning H, Liu S, Wang J, Han X. Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium-Reynoutria japonica Houtt. herb pair suppresses breast cancer liver metastasis by targeting ECM1-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 116:154896. [PMID: 37247588 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver metastasis is a frequent event in breast cancer that causes low survival rate and poor prognosis. Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium-Reynoutria japonica Houtt. (CR), a traditional Chinese herb pair, is used for the treatment of breast cancer liver metastasis or cholesterol gallstone disease in clinics. PURPOSE This study attempted to investigate the potential therapeutic target and mechanism of CR herb pair on breast cancer liver metastasis. METHODS The anti-metastatic and cholesterol-lowering activities of CR extract were evaluated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines and an experimental liver metastasis model. The role of extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway was determined by the knockdown and overexpression of ECM1 gene of TNBC cells. Changes in the gene and protein expression levels of ECM1 and the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway after CR treatment were detected in vitro and in vivo by real-time PCR and Western blot. RESULTS The invasive and metastatic potentials and hypercholesterol levels of TNBC cells were positively associated with ECM1 expression. ECM1 knockdown reduced tumor cholesterol levels via downregulating cholesterol biosynthesis genes, including ACAT2, HMGCS1, HMGCR, MVK, and MVD, whereas ECM1 overexpression elicited the opposite effects. CR herb pair exerts the potential therapeutic effects on TNBC liver metastasis, which is partially mediated by disrupting ECM1-activated cholesterol biosynthesis process in TNBC cells. CONCLUSION This study reveals that ECM1 is a novel target for the activation of cholesterol biosynthesis to promote TNBC liver metastasis occurrence. CR herb pair, an ECM1 inhibitor, maybe be considered to serve as an adjuvant therapeutic drug for liver metastasis in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jue Wang
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueqiang Chen
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanyang Luo
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qionglian Huang
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanjuan Ning
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng Liu
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jianyi Wang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shanghai Yueyang Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xianghui Han
- Institute of Chinese Traditional Surgery, Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Mei L, Xu L, Wu S, Wang Y, Xu C, Wang L, Zhang X, Yu C, Jiang H, Zhang X, Bai F, Xie C. Discovery, structural optimization, and anti-tumor bioactivity evaluations of betulinic acid derivatives as a new type of RORγ antagonists. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 257:115472. [PMID: 37236000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA) is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid that has a wide range of biological and pharmacological effects. Here, computational methods such as pharmacophore screening and reverse docking were used to predict the potential target for BA. Retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ) was confirmed as its target by several molecular assays as well as crystal complex structure determination. RORγ has been the focus of metabolic regulation, but its potential role in cancer treatment has only recently come to the fore. In this study, rationale optimization of BA was performed and several new derivatives were generated. Among them, the compound 22 showed stronger binding affinity with RORγ (KD = 180 nM), good anti-proliferative activity against cancer cell lines, and potent anti-tumor efficacy with a TGI value of 71.6% (at a dose of 15 mg/kg) in the HPAF-II pancreatic cancer xenograft model. Further RNA-seq analysis and cellular validation experiments supported that RORγ antagonism was closely related to the antitumor activity of BA and 22, resulting in suppression of the RAS/MAPK and AKT/mTORC1 pathway and inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. RORγ was highly expressed in cancer cells and tissues and positively correlated with the poor prognosis of cancer patients. These results suggest that BA derivatives are potential RORγ antagonists worthy of further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianghe Mei
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lansong Xu
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC (Anhui Provincial Hospital), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China; Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Sanan Wu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yafang Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Chao Xu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- China Suzhou Institute of Drug Innovation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Chengcheng Yu
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xianglei Zhang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Fang Bai
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China; Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Chengying Xie
- Drug Discovery and Development Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China; Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China; Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Zou H, Yang Y, Chen HW. Natural compounds ursolic acid and digoxin exhibit inhibitory activities to cancer cells in RORγ-dependent and -independent manner. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1146741. [PMID: 37180705 PMCID: PMC10169565 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1146741] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural compounds ursolic acid (UA) and digoxin isolated from fruits and other plants display potent anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies. UA and digoxin have been at clinical trials for treatment of different cancers including prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and breast cancer. However, they displayed limited benefit to patients. Currently, a poor understanding of their direct targets and mechanisms of action (MOA) severely hinders their further development. We previously identified nuclear receptor RORγ as a novel therapeutic target for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and demonstrated that tumor cell RORγ directly activates gene programs such as androgen receptor (AR) signaling and cholesterol metabolism. Previous studies also demonstrated that UA and digoxin are potential RORγt antagonists in modulating the functions of immune cells such as Th17 cells. Here we showed that UA displays a strong activity in inhibition of RORγ-dependent transactivation function in cancer cells, while digoxin exhibits no effect at clinically relevant concentrations. In prostate cancer cells, UA downregulates RORγ-stimulated AR expression and AR signaling, whereas digoxin upregulates AR signaling pathway. In TNBC cells, UA but not digoxin alters RORγ-controlled gene programs of cell proliferation, apoptosis and cholesterol biosynthesis. Together, our study reveals for the first-time that UA, but not digoxin, acts as a natural antagonist of RORγ in the cancer cells. Our finding that RORγ is a direct target of UA in cancer cells will help select patients with tumors that likely respond to UA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongye Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Yatian Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Hong-Wu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
- UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
- VA Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA, United States
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du Plessis TL, Abdulla N, Kaur M. The utility of 3D models to study cholesterol in cancer: Insights and future perspectives. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1156246. [PMID: 37077827 PMCID: PMC10106729 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1156246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol remains a vital molecule required for life; however, increasing evidence exists implicating cholesterol in cancer development and progression. Numerous studies investigating the relationship between cholesterol and cancer in 2-dimensional (2D) culture settings exist, however these models display inherent limitations highlighting the incipient need to develop better models to study disease pathogenesis. Due to the multifaceted role cholesterol plays in the cell, researchers have begun utilizing 3-dimensional (3D) culture systems, namely, spheroids and organoids to recapitulate cellular architecture and function. This review aims to describe current studies exploring the relationship between cancer and cholesterol in a variety of cancer types using 3D culture systems. We briefly discuss cholesterol dyshomeostasis in cancer and introduce 3D in-vitro culture systems. Following this, we discuss studies performed in cancerous spheroid and organoid models that focused on cholesterol, highlighting the dynamic role cholesterol plays in various cancer types. Finally, we attempt to provide potential gaps in research that should be explored in this rapidly evolving field of study.
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Lactoferrin Restores the Deoxynivalenol-Impaired Spermatogenesis and Blood-Testis Barrier Integrity via Improving the Antioxidant Capacity and Modifying the Cell Adhesion and Inflammatory Response. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12010152. [PMID: 36671014 PMCID: PMC9855165 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is among the most prevalent contaminants in cereal crops and has been demonstrated to impair male spermatogenesis and induce oxidative stress, testicular apoptosis, and disruption of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron-binding glycoprotein with multifunctions including anti-inflammation and antioxidation. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of LF on the spermatogenesis and integrity of the BTB in DON-exposed mice. Thirty-two male mice were allotted to four groups for a 35-day feeding period: vehicle (basal diet), DON (12 mg/kg), LF (10 mg/d, p.o.), and DON + LF. The results showed that DON induced vacuolization of the spermatogenic epithelium, broke the adhesion junction between Sertoli cells and spermatids established by N-cadherin and induced testicular oxidative stress. LF administration restored sperm production, attenuated the DON-induced oxidative stress and reduced the breakages in adhesion junction. DON exposure enhanced the protein expression of occludin. Transcriptional profiling of the testis observed a disturbance in the expression profiles of cell adhesion and inflammatory response genes, and LF administration reversed these gene expressions. Furthermore, down-regulated signaling pathways, including the apical junction, TNFα signaling via NF-κB, and TGF-β in the DON group were observed. These were restored by LF. Enrichment analysis between DON + LF group and vehicle also confirmed the absence of these pathways. These findings indicated that LF eliminated the DON-induced detriment to spermatogenesis and cell connections between Sertoli cells and spermatids via improving antioxidant capacity and modifying the inflammatory response and cell adhesion genes.
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Qu H, Zong Q, Hu P, Li Z, Wang H, Wu S, Liu HY, Bao W, Cai D. Desmosterol: A natural product derived from macroalgae modulates inflammatory response and oxidative stress pathways in intestinal epithelial cells. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1101643. [PMID: 36685553 PMCID: PMC9845693 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1101643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The serum level of cholesterol and its biosynthetic intermediates are critical indicators to access metabolism-related disorders in humans and animals. However, the molecular actions of these intermediates on gene functions and regulation remained elusive. Here, we show that desmosterol (DES) is the most abundant intermediate involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and is highly enriched in red/brown algae. It exerts a pivotal role in modulating core genes involved in oxidative stress and inflammatory response processes in the ileum epithelial cells (IPI-2I). We observed that the DES extracted from red algae did not affect IPI-2I cell growth or survival. A transcriptomic measurement revealed that the genes enrolled in the oxidative process and cholesterol homeostasis pathway were significantly down-regulated by DES treatment. Consistent with this notion, cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were markedly decreased in response to DES treatment. In contrast, key inflammatory genes including IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ were remarkably upregulated in the RNA-seq analysis, as further confirmed by qRT-PCR. Given that DES is a specific agonist of nuclear receptor RORγ, we also found that DES caused the elevated expression of RORγ at mRNA and protein levels, suggesting it is a potential mediator under DES administration. Together, these results underscore the vital physiological actions of DES in inflammatory and oxidative processes possibly via RORγ, and may be helpful in anti-oxidation treatment and immunotherapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Qu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qiufang Zong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ping Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhaojian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Haifei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shenglong Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hao-Yu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Demin Cai, ; Wenbin Bao, ; Hao-Yu Liu,
| | - Wenbin Bao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Demin Cai, ; Wenbin Bao, ; Hao-Yu Liu,
| | - Demin Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Demin Cai, ; Wenbin Bao, ; Hao-Yu Liu,
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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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Kalita E, Panda M, Prajapati VK. The interplay between circadian clock and viral infections: A molecular perspective. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2023; 137:293-330. [PMID: 37709380 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The circadian clock influences almost every aspect of mammalian behavioral, physiological and metabolic processes. Being a hierarchical network, the circadian clock is driven by the central clock in the brain and is composed of several peripheral tissue-specific clocks. It orchestrates and synchronizes the daily oscillations of biological processes to the environment. Several pathological events are influenced by time and seasonal variations and as such implicate the clock in pathogenesis mechanisms. In context with viral infections, circadian rhythmicity is closely associated with host susceptibility, disease severity, and pharmacokinetics and efficacies of antivirals and vaccines. Leveraging the circadian molecular mechanism insights has increased our understanding of clock infection biology and proposes new avenues for viral diagnostics and therapeutics. In this chapter, we address the molecular interplay between the circadian clock and viral infections and discuss the importance of chronotherapy as a complementary approach to conventional medicines, emphasizing the significance of virus-clock studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elora Kalita
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mamta Panda
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi, India..
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Xu F, Yan J, Peng Z, Liu J, Li Z. Comprehensive analysis of a glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis-related genes signature for predicting prognosis and immune landscape in osteosarcoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1096009. [PMID: 36618348 PMCID: PMC9822727 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1096009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis are crucial in cancer metabolic reprogramming. The aim of this study was to identify a glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis-related genes (GCSRGs) signature for effective prognostic assessments of osteosarcoma patients. Methods Gene expression data and clinical information were obtained from GSE21257 and TARGET-OS datasets. Consistent clustering method was used to identify the GCSRGs-related subtypes. Univariate Cox regression and LASSO Cox regression analyses were used to construct the GCSRGs signature. The ssGSEA method was used to analyze the differences in immune cells infiltration. The pRRophetic R package was utilized to assess the drug sensitivity of different groups. Western blotting, cell viability assay, scratch assay and Transwell assay were used to perform cytological validation. Results Through bioinformatics analysis, patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma were classified into one of 4 subtypes (quiescent, glycolysis, cholesterol, and mixed subtypes), which differed significantly in terms of prognosis and tumor microenvironment. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed that the modules strongly correlated with glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis were the midnight blue and the yellow modules, respectively. Both univariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses were conducted on screened module genes to identify 5 GCSRGs (RPS28, MCAM, EN1, TRAM2, and VEGFA) constituting a prognostic signature for osteosarcoma patients. The signature was an effective prognostic predictor, independent of clinical characteristics, as verified further via Kaplan-Meier analysis, ROC curve analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Additionally, GCSRGs signature had strong correlation with drug sensitivity, immune checkpoints and immune cells infiltration. In cytological experiments, we selected TRAM2 as a representative gene to validate the validity of GCSRGs signature, which found that TRAM2 promoted the progression of osteosarcoma cells. Finally, at the pan-cancer level, TRAM2 had been correlated with overall survival, progression free survival, disease specific survival, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, immune checkpoints and immune cells infiltration. Conclusion Therefore, we constructed a GCSRGs signature that efficiently predicted osteosarcoma patient prognosis and guided therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangxing Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jinglong Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China,*Correspondence: Jinglong Yan,
| | - Zhibin Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jingsong Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zecheng Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Zong Q, Qu H, Zhao Y, Liu H, Wu S, Wang S, Bao W, Cai D. Sodium butyrate alleviates deoxynivalenol-induced hepatic cholesterol metabolic dysfunction via RORγ-mediated histone acetylation modification in weaning piglets. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:133. [PMID: 36550531 PMCID: PMC9783825 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00793-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholesterol is an essential component of lipid rafts in cell plasma membrane, which exerts a hepatoprotective role against mycotoxin exposure in pigs, and cholesterol metabolism is vulnerable to epigenetic histone acetylation. Therefore, our present study aimed to investigate whether a histone deacetylase inhibitor (sodium butyrate [NaBu]) could protect the porcine liver from deoxynivalenol (DON) exposure by modulating cholesterol metabolism. Herein, we randomly divided 28 pigs into four groups, which were fed an uncontaminated basal diet, contaminated diet (4 mg DON/kg), uncontaminated diet supplemented with 0.2% NaBu or 4 mg/kg DON contaminated diet (4 mg DON/kg) supplemented with 0.2% NaBu for 28 d. RESULTS We found that the serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were all increased in pigs exposed to DON, indicative of significant liver injury. Furthermore, the cholesterol content in the serum of DON-exposed pigs was significantly reduced, compared to the healthy Vehicle group. Transcriptome analysis of porcine liver tissues revealed that the cholesterol homeostasis pathway was highly enriched due to DON exposure. In which we validated by qRT-PCR and western blotting that the cholesterol program was markedly activated. Importantly, NaBu effectively restored parameters associated with liver injury, along with the cholesterol content and the expression of key genes involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Mechanistically, we performed a ChIP-seq analysis of H3K27ac and showed that NaBu strongly diminished DON-increased H3K27ac genome-wide enrichment. We further validated that the elevated H3K27ac and H3K9ac occupancies on cholesterol biosynthesis genes were both decreased by NaBu, as determined by ChIP-qPCR analysis. Notably, nuclear receptor RORγ, a novel regulator of cholesterol biosynthesis, was found in the hyperacetylated regions. Again, a remarkable increase of RORγ at both mRNA and protein levels in DON-exposed porcine livers was drastically reduced by NaBu. Consistent with RORγ expression, NaBu also hindered RORγ transcriptional binding enrichments on these activated cholesterol biosynthesis genes like HMGCR, SQLE, and DHCR24. Furthermore, we conducted an in vitro luciferase reporter assay to verify that porcine RORγ directly bonds to the promoters of the above target genes. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results demonstrate the utility of the natural product NaBu as a potential anti-mycotoxin nutritional strategy for regulating cholesterol metabolism via RORγ-mediated histone acetylation modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiufang Zong
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Huan Qu
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Yahui Zhao
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Haoyu Liu
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Shenglong Wu
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China ,grid.268415.cJoint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Shuai Wang
- grid.35155.370000 0004 1790 4137Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070 PR China
| | - Wenbin Bao
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China ,grid.268415.cJoint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
| | - Demin Cai
- grid.268415.cCollege of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China ,grid.268415.cJoint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 PR China
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40
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Targeting the cholesterol-RORα/γ axis inhibits colorectal cancer progression through degrading c-myc. Oncogene 2022; 41:5266-5278. [DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractDysregulated cholesterol metabolism is a hallmark of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the usage of cholesterol-lowering agents seemed to have no benefit in CRC patients. In this study, we focused on the cholesterol-nuclear receptors (NRs) axis as a strategy. Cholesterol and its derivatives work as ligands for different nuclear receptors, thus promoting cancer progression. The key NR downstream of cholesterol in CRC is unknown. Here, we treated CRC cells with a cholesterol-lowering agent and lipoprotein-depleted conditioned medium, and then detected the change of the putative NRs. The results revealed that RORα/γ (Retinoic acid receptor-related Orphan Receptor α/γ) levels exhibited the most obvious increases in CRC cells subjected them to cholesterol deprivation. RORα/γ agonists significantly inhibited CRC cells proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Also, RORα/γ overexpression repressed CRC cells proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo and RORα/γ knockdown promoted it. Mechanistically, RORα/γ agonists promoted c-myc degradation by activating the transcription of the ubiquitinase NEDD4. Intriguingly, the combination of RORα/γ agonists and atorvastatin had a synergistic effect on inhibiting CRC cells. These findings demonstrate that the cholesterol- RORα/γ axis is important for maintaining c-myc protein levels. Combination therapy with atorvastatin and RORα/γ agonist is a promising therapeutic strategy for CRC.
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41
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Niu Y, Tang S. Circadian clock-mediated nuclear receptors in cancer. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:4428-4442. [PMID: 36250982 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Circadian system coordinates the daily periodicity of physiological and biochemical functions to adapt to environmental changes. Circadian disruption has been identified to increase the risk of cancer and promote cancer progression, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. And further mechanistic understanding of the crosstalk between clock components and cancer is urgent to achieve clinical anticancer benefits from chronochemotherapy. Recent studies discover that several nuclear receptors regulating circadian clock, also play crucial roles in mediating multiple cancer processes. In this review, we aim to summarize the latest developments of clock-related nuclear receptors in cancer biology and dissect mechanistic insights into how nuclear receptors coordinate with circadian clock to regulate tumorigenesis and cancer treatment. A better understanding of circadian clock-related nuclear receptors in cancer could help prevent tumorigenesis and improve anticancer efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Niu
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai, China
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42
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Barati M, Shabani M, Jabbari M, Khaki Bakhtiarvand V, Nikmehr P, Ahmadi H, Akbari ME, Davoodi SH. Antioxidant nutrients can increase high-dose Methotrexate efficacy in 4T1 breast tumor Model: An experimental study on Vitamin E Succinate and Methyl-selenic acid. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:109011. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
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Li Y, Zhang H, Merkher Y, Chen L, Liu N, Leonov S, Chen Y. Recent advances in therapeutic strategies for triple-negative breast cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:121. [PMID: 36038913 PMCID: PMC9422136 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01341-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 96.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most malignant subtype of breast cancer (BC) with a poor prognosis. Current treatment options are limited to surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy; however, a proportion of patients have missed the surgical window at the time of diagnosis. TNBC is a highly heterogeneous cancer with specific mutations and aberrant activation of signaling pathways. Hence, targeted therapies, such as those targeting DNA repair pathways, androgen receptor signaling pathways, and kinases, represent promising treatment options against TNBC. In addition, immunotherapy has also been demonstrated to improve overall survival and response in TNBC. In this review, we summarize recent key advances in therapeutic strategies based on molecular subtypes in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Li
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Huajun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yulia Merkher
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russia, 141700
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Sergey Leonov
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russia, 141700. .,Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Russia, 142290.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Wang J, Yan PP, Wang HY, Zuo SJ, Zhang SQ, Cao YX, Cao L. Novel compound ZCJ14, a gefitinib analog, exhibited prominent anti-cancer effect among several cancer cell lines. Life Sci 2022; 307:120875. [PMID: 35963298 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM ZCJ14, a gefitinib analog, exhibited prominent anti-cancer effect both in vitro and in vivo. The present study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects of ZCJ14 on human cancer cells, and explored its possible mechanism of action. MAIN METHODS The inhibitory effect of ZCJ14 on human-derived tumor cells in vitro was mainly measured by MTT and colony formation assays. The nude mouse xenograft models were established to figure out the inhibitory effect of ZCJ14 on solid tumors in vivo. Western blotting assays were used to detect the phosphorylation level of EGFR down-streaming proteins and the proteomic technique was used to study the proteome alterations of cancer cells triggered by ZCJ14. KEY FINDINGS ZCJ14 inhibited the proliferation of A549 (lung cancer), HCT116 (colorectal cancer) and MCF-7 (breast cancer) cells in vitro with 48 h IC50 values of 0.83, 0.85 and 0.92 μM, respectively. It suppressed the growth of A549, NCI-H1975, NCI-H1299 and MCF-7, HCT116 tumors in mouse xenograft models, and had almost no toxicity. At the same dose, the inhibitory effect of ZCJ14 on solid tumors was better than the corresponding positive drugs. ZCJ14 does not exert anti-tumor effects through inhibition of EGFR pathway, but by enhancing steroid biosynthesis and inhibiting ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis. SIGNIFICANCE Based on the excellent anti-tumor effect of ZCJ14 on human tumor cell lines, it can be used as an effective anti-tumor drug candidate. In addition, the results of proteomic study in this paper can provide clues for further study of the anti-tumor mechanism of ZCJ14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China.
| | - Ping-Ping Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Hong-Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Sai-Jie Zuo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China; School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, China
| | - San-Qi Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yong-Xiao Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Lei Cao
- Precision Medical Institute, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710004, China.
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Lithocholic Acid Alleviates Deoxynivalenol-Induced Lethal Cholesterol Metabolic Abnormalities in IPI-2I Cells. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12070659. [PMID: 35888783 PMCID: PMC9316497 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12070659] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a secondary metabolite of fungi. Ingestion of feed containing DON causes severe intestinal damage in humans and animals, possibly due to cholesterol-enriched lipid raft abnormalities. Cholic acid (CA) and lithocholic acid (LCA) are metabolites of cholesterol transformation, which have been proven to benefit epithelial cell proliferation and reduce intestinal inflammation and lesions. Therefore, we aimed to study the protective roles of CA and LCA administration on the DON-exposed intestinal epithelial cells (IPI-2I) and the underlying mechanisms involved in cholesterol metabolism. We found that LCA pretreatment, but not CA, alleviated the reduction of cell numbers caused by DON exposure. Furthermore, we demonstrate that LCA restored the DON-induced cell apoptosis by reducing the cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved PARP-1 expression. DON-increased cellular cholesterol and bile acid contents were significantly reduced when LCA was co-treated. Further transcriptomic analysis revealed that the aberrant cholesterol homeostasis genes profile was observed in the cells exposed to DON or pretreated with LCA. We also validated that the key genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis and transformation (cholesterol to bile acids) were strongly inhibited by the LCA treatment in the DON-exposed cells. Together, this study demonstrated that LCA ameliorated DON-caused toxic apoptosis in IPI-2I cells by maintaining cholesterol metabolism. We suggest that as an endogenous metabolite, LCA may be used as a therapeutic and/or integrated into a dietary intervention against mycotoxin toxicity.
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Mai S, Zhu X, Wan EYC, Wu S, Yonathan JN, Wang J, Li Y, Ma JYW, Zuo B, Tse DYY, Lo PC, Wang X, Chan KM, Wu DM, Xiong W. Postnatal eye size in mice is controlled by SREBP2-mediated transcriptional repression of Lrp2 and Bmp2. Development 2022; 149:276005. [PMID: 35833708 PMCID: PMC9382895 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Eye size is a key parameter of visual function, but the precise mechanisms of eye size control remain poorly understood. Here, we discovered that the lipogenic transcription factor sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) has an unanticipated function in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to promote eye size in postnatal mice. SREBP2 transcriptionally represses low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2 (Lrp2), which has been shown to restrict eye overgrowth. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) is the downstream effector of Srebp2 and Lrp2, and Bmp2 is suppressed by SREBP2 transcriptionally but activated by Lrp2. During postnatal development, SREBP2 protein expression in the RPE decreases whereas that of Lrp2 and Bmp2 increases as the eye growth rate reduces. Bmp2 is the key determinant of eye size such that its level in mouse RPE inversely correlates with eye size. Notably, RPE-specific Bmp2 overexpression by adeno-associated virus effectively prevents the phenotypes caused by Lrp2 knock out. Together, our study shows that rapid postnatal eye size increase is governed by an RPE-derived signaling pathway, which consists of both positive and negative regulators of eye growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyi Mai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.,Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Esther Yi Ching Wan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shengyu Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Jun Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ying Li
- College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, 030024 Taiyuan, China
| | - Jessica Yuen Wuen Ma
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bing Zuo
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dennis Yan-Yin Tse
- Centre for Myopia Research, School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.,Research Centre for SHARP Vision, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pui-Chi Lo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kui Ming Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - David M Wu
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotech and Health Centre, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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47
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Antioxidant nutrients can increase high-dose Methotrexate efficacy in 4T1 breast tumor Model: An experimental study on Vitamin E Succinate and Methyl-selenic acid. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:109011. [PMID: 35803129 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to evaluate the anti-cancer and immune system enhancing properties of Vitamin E succinate (VES) and methylselenic acid (MSA) administration on 4T1 breast tumor model under high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) therapy and folinic acid (FA) rescue. METHODS Thirty six 4T1 mammary carcinoma bearing mice were randomly divided into six groups: control (untreated; n = 6), treatment-1 (T1 group; HDMTX; n = 6), T2 (T1 + FA; n = 6), T3 (T2 + MSA; n = 6), T4 (T2 + VES; n = 6) and T5 (T3 + VES; n = 6). On day 21 of the study, all surviving mice were sacrificed and primary tumors and peripheral tissues were examined for histological and gene expression assays. The expression of GATA Binding Protein-3 (GATA3), forkhead box-P3 (FOXP3), T-bet and Retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor γt (RORγt) were evaluated in tumors and spleens. Also, vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and UL16-Binding Protein 1 (ULBP-1) expression were evaluated in tumors. RESULTS The control, T4 and T5 groups were able to complete the entire 21-day study period. Also, significant tumor shrinkage was occurred in T4 group (P < 0.05). Suppression of splenic FOXP3 and GATA3 were observed in the mice receiving T4 and T5 regimens. Also, induction of tumoral FOXP3 and GATA3 were achieved in the T4 and T5 groups, respectively (P < 0.05). No metastasis occurred in T4 receiving group; while, lung and liver metastasis were observed in T5 group. CONCLUSION In this study, high and fixed dose of MTX was used. Further studies are needed to optimize MTX dose along with FA, VES and MSA.
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48
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Yang N, Yang Y, Huang Z, Chen HW. Deregulation of Cholesterol Homeostasis by a Nuclear Hormone Receptor Crosstalk in Advanced Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3110. [PMID: 35804882 PMCID: PMC9265016 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) features high intratumoral cholesterol levels, due to aberrant regulation of cholesterol homeostasis. However, the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. The retinoid acid receptor-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ), an attractive therapeutic target for cancer and autoimmune diseases, is strongly implicated in prostate cancer progression. We demonstrate in this study that in mCRPC cells and tumors, RORγ plays a crucial role in deregulation of cholesterol homeostasis. First, we found that RORγ activates the expression of key cholesterol biosynthesis proteins, including HMGCS1, HMGCR, and SQLE. Interestingly, we also found that RORγ inhibition induces cholesterol efflux gene program including ABCA1, ABCG1 and ApoA1. Our further studies revealed that liver X receptors (LXRα and LXRβ), the master regulators of cholesterol efflux pathway, mediate the function of RORγ in repression of cholesterol efflux. Finally, we demonstrated that RORγ antagonist in combination with statins has synergistic effect in killing mCRPC cells through blocking statin-induced feedback induction of cholesterol biosynthesis program and that the combination treatment also elicits stronger anti-tumor effects than either alone. Altogether, our work revealed that in mCRPC, RORγ contributes to aberrant cholesterol homeostasis by induction of cholesterol biosynthesis program and suppression of cholesterol efflux genes. Our findings support a therapeutic strategy of targeting RORγ alone or in combination with statin for effective treatment of mCRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianxin Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (N.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Z.H.)
| | - Yatian Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (N.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Z.H.)
| | - Zenghong Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (N.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Z.H.)
| | - Hong-Wu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (N.Y.); (Y.Y.); (Z.H.)
- National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA 95655, USA
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49
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Gu H, Hu P, Zhao Y, Liu Y, Wang YT, Ahmed AA, Liu HY, Cai D. Nuclear Receptor RORα/γ: Exciting Modulators in Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders. Front Nutr 2022; 9:925267. [PMID: 35799591 PMCID: PMC9253614 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.925267] [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: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Under the influences of modern lifestyle, metabolic syndromes (MetS), including insulin resistance, obesity, and fatty liver, featuring a worldwide chronic disease, greatly raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. However, its pathogenesis is still unclear, and there are limited drugs with strong clinical efficacy and specificity. Given the close connection between impaired lipid metabolism and MetS onset, modulating the lipid metabolic genes may provide potential prospects in the development of MetS therapeutics. Nuclear receptors are such druggable transcription factors that translate physiological signals into gene regulation via DNA binding upon ligand activation. Recent studies reveal vital functions of the NRs retinoic acid's receptor-related orphan receptors (RORs), including RORα and RORγ, in the gene regulation in lipid metabolism and MetS. This review focuses on the latest developments in their actions on MetS and related metabolic disorders, which would benefit future clinically therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ping Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yahui Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yaya Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Ting Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Abdelkareem A. Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Botswana University of Agriculture and Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gaborone, Botswana
- Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala, Sudan
| | - Hao-Yu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hao-Yu Liu
| | - Demin Cai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Demin Cai
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50
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Nuclear receptor RORγ inverse agonists/antagonists display tissue- and gene-context selectivity through distinct activities in altering chromatin accessibility and master regulator SREBP2 occupancy. Pharmacol Res 2022; 182:106324. [PMID: 35750301 PMCID: PMC10158160 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear receptor RORγ is a major driver of autoimmune diseases and certain types of cancer due to its aberrant function in T helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation and tumor cholesterol metabolism, respectively. Compound screening using the classic receptor-coactivator interaction perturbation scheme led to identification of many small-molecule modulators of RORγ(t). We report here that inverse agonists/antagonists of RORγ such as VTP-43742 derivative VTP-23 and TAK828F, which can potently inhibit the inflammatory gene program in Th17 cells, unexpectedly lack high potency in inhibiting the growth of TNBC tumor cells. In contrast, antagonists such as XY018 and GSK805 that strongly suppress tumor cell growth and survival display only modest activities in reducing Th17-related cytokine expression. Unexpectedly, we found that VTP-23 significantly induces the cholesterol biosynthesis program in TNBC cells. Our further mechanistic analyses revealed that VTP-23 enhances the local chromatin accessibility, H3K27ac mark and the cholesterol master regulator SREBP2 recruitment at the RORγ binding sites, whereas XY018 exerts the opposite activities. Yet, they display similar inhibitory effects on circadian rhythm program. Similar distinctions and contrasting activities between TAK828F and SR2211 in their effects on local chromatin structure at Il17 genes were also observed. Together, our study shows for the first-time that structurally distinct RORγ antagonists possess different or even contrasting activities in tissue/cell-specific manner. Our findings also highlight that the activities at natural chromatin are key determinants of RORγ modulators' tissue selectivity.
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