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Tzeng WS, Teng WL, Huang PH, Yen FL, Shiue YL. Anti-cancer activity and cellular uptake of 7,3',4'- and 7,8,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone in HepG2 cells under hypoxic conditions. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2288806. [PMID: 38153119 PMCID: PMC10763887 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2288806] [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: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is used for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment, but TACE-induced hypoxia leads to poor prognosis. The anti-cancer effects of soybean isoflavones daidzein derivatives 7,3',4'-trihydroxyisoflavone (734THIF) and 7,8,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone (784THIF) were evaluated under hypoxic microenvironments. Molecular docking of these isomers with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) was assessed. About 40 μM of 734THIF and 784THIF have the best effect on inhibiting the proliferation of HepG2 cells under hypoxic conditions. At a concentration of 40 μM, 784THIF significantly inhibits COX-2 expression in pre-hypoxia conditions compared to 734THIF, with an inhibition rate of 67.73%. Additionally, 40 μM 784THIF downregulates the expression of hypoxic, inflammatory, and metastatic-related proteins, regulates oxidative stress, and inhibits the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins. The uptake by HepG2 confirmed higher 784THIF level and slower degradation characteristics under post- or pre-hypoxic conditions. In conclusion, our results showed that 784THIF had better anti-cancer effects and cellular uptake than 734THIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Sheng Tzeng
- Department of Radiology, Pingtung Christian Hospital, Pingtung, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Lin Teng
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Hsien Huang
- Department of Fragrance and Cosmetic Science, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Lin Yen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Fragrance and Cosmetic Science, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yow-Ling Shiue
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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2
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Rong X, Li X, Liu C, Wu C, Wang Z, Zhu B. Dual-reporter fluorescent probe for precise identification of liver cancer by sequentially responding to carboxylesterase and polarity. Talanta 2024; 278:126477. [PMID: 38968656 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.126477] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Early treatment significantly improves the survival rate of liver cancer patients, so the development of early diagnostic methods for liver cancer is urgent. Liver cancer can develop from viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver, and fatty liver, thus making the above diseases share common features such as elevated viscosity, reactive oxygen species, and reactive nitrogen species. Therefore, accurate differentiation between other liver diseases and liver cancer is both a paramount practical need and challenging. Numerous fluorescent probes have been reported for the diagnosis of liver cancer by detecting a single biomarker, but these probes lack specificity for liver cancer in complex biological systems. Obviously, using multiple liver cancer biomarkers as the basis for judgment can dramatically improve diagnostic accuracy. Herein, we report the first fluorescent probe, LD-TCE, that sequentially detects carboxylesterase (CE) and lipid droplet polarity in liver cancer cells with high sensitivity and selectivity, with linear detection of CE in the range of 0-6 U/mL and a 65-fold fluorescence enhancement in response to polarity. The probe first reacts with CE and releases weak fluorescence, which is then dramatically enhanced due to the decrease in lipid droplet polarity in liver cancer cells. This approach allows the probe to enable specific imaging of liver cancer with higher contrast and accuracy. The probe successfully achieved the screening of liver cancer cells and the precise identification of liver cancer in mice. More importantly, it is not disturbed by liver fibrosis, which is a common pathological feature of many liver diseases. We believe that the LD-TCE is expected to be a powerful tool for early diagnosis of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Rong
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China
| | - Xiwei Li
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in Universities of Shandong, Key Laboratory of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Caiyun Liu
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China.
| | - Chuanchen Wu
- College of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi, 276005, China.
| | - Zhongpeng Wang
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China
| | - Baocun Zhu
- School of Water Conservancy and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan, 250022, China.
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3
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Feng Z, Cao K, Sun H, Liu X. SEH1L siliencing induces ferroptosis and suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression via ATF3/HMOX1/GPX4 axis. Apoptosis 2024; 29:1723-1737. [PMID: 39095556 PMCID: PMC11416379 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-024-02009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
SEH1 like nucleoporin (SEH1L) is an important component of nuclear pore complex (NPC), which is crucial in the regulation of cell division. However, the interrelation between SEH1L expression and tumor progression is less studied. In this research, we performed a systematic bioinformatic analysis about SEH1L using TCGA, Timer 2.0, Cbioportal, UCLAN and CellMiner™ databases in pan-cancer. Besides, we further validated the bioinformatic results through in vitro and in vivo experiments in HCC, including transcriptome sequencing, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), cell proliferation assays, clone formation, EdU, transwell, flow cytometry and subcutaneous tumor model. Our results suggested that SEH1L was significantly up-regulated and related to poor prognosis in most cancers, and may serve as a potential biomarker. SEH1L could promote HCC progression in vitro and in vivo. Besides, the next generation sequencing suggested that 684 genes was significantly up-regulated and 678 genes was down-regulated after the knock down of SEH1L. SEH1L siliencing could activate ATF3/HMOX1/GPX4 axis, decrease mitochondrial membrane potential and GSH, but increase ROS and MDA, and these effects could be reversed by the knock down of ATF3. This study indicated that SEH1L siliencing could induce ferroptosis and suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression via ATF3/HMOX1/GPX4 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Feng
- Postdoctoral Station of Medical Aspects of Specific Environments, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Ke Cao
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Haojia Sun
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xuewen Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, P.R. China.
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4
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Bhat AA, Afzal M, Moglad E, Thapa R, Ali H, Almalki WH, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Gupta G, Subramaniyan V. lncRNAs as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cuproptosis-mediated cancer. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:226. [PMID: 39325172 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-024-01491-0] [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: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various cellular processes, including cancer progression and stress response. Recent studies have demonstrated that copper accumulation induces a unique form of cell death known as cuproptosis, with lncRNAs playing a key role in regulating cuproptosis-associated pathways. These lncRNAs may trigger cell-specific responses to copper stress, presenting new opportunities as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. This paper delves into the role of lncRNAs in cuproptosis-mediated cancer, underscoring their potential as biomarkers and targets for innovative therapeutic strategies. A thorough review of scientific literature was conducted, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, with search terms like 'lncRNAs,' 'cuproptosis,' and 'cancer.' Studies were selected based on their relevance to lncRNA regulation of cuproptosis pathways and their implications for cancer prognosis and treatment. The review highlights the significant contribution of lncRNAs in regulating cuproptosis-related genes and pathways, impacting copper metabolism, mitochondrial stress responses, and apoptotic signaling. Specific lncRNAs are potential prognostic markers in breast, lung, liver, ovarian, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The objective of this article is to explore the role of lncRNAs as potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cancers mediated by cuproptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, 21442, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ehssan Moglad
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, 11942, Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Riya Thapa
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Haider Ali
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyrgyz State Medical College, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, 72341, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Centre for Research Impact & Outcome, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vetriselvan Subramaniyan
- Pharmacology Unit, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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5
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Li R, Li S, Shen L, Li J, Zhang D, Yu J, Huang L, Liu N, Lu H, Xu M. LINC00618 facilitates growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via elevating cholesterol synthesis by promoting NSUN2-mediated SREBP2 m5C modification. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117064. [PMID: 39299205 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism is an important feature of cancer development. There are limited reports on the involvement of lncRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression via the cholesterol metabolism pathway. The present study explored the effect of LINC00618 on HCC growth and metastasis, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms involved in cholesterol metabolism. Here, we found that LINC00618 expression was upregulated in cancerous tissues from 30 patients with HCC compared to that in adjacent normal tissues. High expression of LINC00618 was detected in metastatic HCC tissues. LINC00618 is predominantly localized in the nucleus and overexpression of LINC00618 facilitated HCC cell proliferation, migration and EMT progression by promoting cholesterol biosynthesis. Mechanistically, the 1-101nt region of LINC00618 bound to NSUN2. LINC00618 inhibited ubiquitin-proteasome pathway-induced NSUN2 degradation. NSUN2 stabilized by LINC00618 increased m5C modification of SREBP2 and promoted SREBP2 mRNA stability in a YBX1-dependent manner, thereby promoting cholesterol biosynthesis in HCC cells. Moreover, mouse HCC xenograft and lung metastasis models were established by subcutaneous and tail vein injections of MHCC97 cells transfected with or without sh-LINC00618. Silencing LINC00618 impeded HCC growth and metastasis. In conclusion, LINC00618 promoted HCC growth and metastasis by elevating cholesterol synthesis by stabilizing NSUN2 to enhance SREBP2 mRNA stability in an m5C-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Shunle Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Lin Shen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Junhui Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Jinmin Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Lanxuan Huang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China.
| | - Hongwei Lu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China.
| | - Meng Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China.
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Yang Y, Pei T, Hu X, Lu Y, Huang Y, Wan T, Liu C, Chen F, Guo B, Hong Y, Ba Q, Li X, Wang H. Dietary vitamin B3 supplementation induces the antitumor immunity against liver cancer via biased GPR109A signaling in myeloid cell. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101718. [PMID: 39293389 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101718] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
The impact of dietary nutrients on tumor immunity remains an area of ongoing investigation, particularly regarding the specific role of vitamins and their mechanism. Here, we demonstrate that vitamin B3 (VB3) induces antitumor immunity against liver cancer through biased GPR109A axis in myeloid cell. Nutritional epidemiology studies suggest that higher VB3 intake reduces liver cancer risk. VB3 supplementation demonstrates antitumor efficacy in multiple mouse models through alleviating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) mediated by tumor-infiltrating myeloid cell, thereby augmenting effectiveness of immunotherapy or targeted therapy in a CD8+ T cell-dependent manner. Mechanically, the TME induces aberrant GPR109A/nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation in myeloid cell to shape the immunosuppressive TME. In contrast, VB3 activates β-Arrestin-mediated GPR109A degradation and NF-κB inhibition to suppress the immunosuppressive polarization of myeloid cell, thereby activating the cytotoxic function of CD8+ T cell. Overall, these results expand the understanding of how vitamins regulate the TME, suggesting that dietary VB3 supplementation is an adjunctive treatment for liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Tianduo Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaolin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yu Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yanqiu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Tingya Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chaobao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Fengqian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yuemei Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qian Ba
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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7
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Xu KQ, Gong Z, Yang JL, Xia CQ, Zhao JY, Chen X. B-cell-specific signatures reveal novel immunophenotyping and therapeutic targets for hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:3894-3925. [DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i34.3894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy presents both promises and challenges in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its complex immunological microenvironment. The role of B cells, a key part of the immune system, remains uncertain in HCC.
AIM To identify B-cell-specific signatures and reveal novel immunophenotyping and therapeutic targets for HCC.
METHODS Using the Tumor Immune Single-cell Hub 2 database, we identified B-cell-related genes (BRGs) in HCC. Gene enrichment analysis was performed to explore the possible collaboration between B cells and T cells in HCC. We conducted univariate Cox regression analysis using The Cancer Genome Atlas liver HCC collection dataset to find BRGs linked to HCC prognosis. Subsequently, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was utilized to develop a prognostic model with 11 BRGs. The model was validated using the International Cancer Genome Consortium dataset and GSE76427.
RESULTS The risk score derived from the prognostic model emerged as an independent prognostic factor for HCC. Analysis of the immune microenvironment and cell infiltration revealed the immune status of various risk groups, supporting the cooperation of B and T cells in suppressing HCC. The BRGs model identified new molecular subtypes of HCC, each with distinct immune characteristics. Drug sensitivity analysis identified targeted drugs effective for each HCC subtype, enabling precision therapy and guiding clinical decisions.
CONCLUSION We clarified the role of B cells in HCC and propose that the BRGs model offers promising targets for personalized immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Quan Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zheng Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jia-Ling Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chu-Qi Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650101, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Jian-Yi Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Second People’s Hospital of Jiaozuo City, Jiaozuo 454001, Henan Province, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
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8
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Liu D, Li J, Xue Y, Zhao T, Jin Z, Dan W, Chen Z, Hu L, Sun S. Site-specific N-glycan alterations on haptoglobin as potential biomarkers for distinguishing intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma from hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 280:135563. [PMID: 39284470 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135563] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma (ICC) is a challenging malignancy marked by subtle early symptoms and a high mortality rate, making effective diagnostic markers crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes. Currently, the conventional diagnosis of ICC is not easily distinguishable from Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) and lacks highly specific and sensitive diagnostic markers. Protein glycosylation, pivotal in biological processes, shows promise for cancer biomarkers due to its association with disease progression. This study aims to develop a novel biomarker discovery framework for ICC utilizing site-specific quantitative N-glycoproteomics to overcome the limitations of existing diagnostic approaches. Employing a tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative analysis, we profiled serum glycoproteins from ICC, HCC, and control cohorts at site-specific glycosylation level. The identified markers underwent further validation in an independent cohort using label-free quantitative methods. Ultimately, we identified five site-specific N-glycans on haptoglobin (HP) as potential biomarkers (AUC > 0.9) for distinguishing ICC from HCC. This finding represents a considerable advance over traditional biomarkers, highlighting the significance of protein glycosylation alterations in ICC pathogenesis. This research, therefore, sets a new precedent for biomarker discovery in ICC, with potential applications in other cancers characterized by glycosylation abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didi Liu
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Yue Xue
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Ting Zhao
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Zhehui Jin
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Wei Dan
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Zexuan Chen
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Liangshuo Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Institute of Advanced Surgical Technology and Engineering, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, PR China
| | - Shisheng Sun
- Laboratory for Disease Glycoproteomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China.
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9
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Zeng Y, Liu X, Wang Z, Gao W, Zhang S, Wang Y, Liu Y, Yu H. Multidepth quantitative analysis of liver cell viscoelastic properties: Fusion of nanoindentation and finite element modeling techniques. Microsc Res Tech 2024. [PMID: 39254440 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24697] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Liver cells are the basic functional unit of the liver. However, repeated or sustained injury leads to structural disorders of liver lobules, proliferation of fibrous tissue and changes in structure, thus increasing scar tissue. Cellular fibrosis affects tissue stiffness, shear force, and other cellular mechanical forces. Mechanical force characteristics can serve as important indicators of cell damage and cirrhosis. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been widely used to study cell surface mechanics. However, characterization of the deep mechanical properties inside liver cells remains an underdeveloped field. In this work, cell nanoindentation was combined with finite element analysis to simulate and analyze the mechanical responses of liver cells at different depths in vitro and their internal responses and stress diffusion distributions after being subjected to normal stress. The sensitivities of the visco-hyperelastic parameters of the finite element model to the effects of the peak force and equilibrium force were compared. The force curves of alcohol-damaged liver cells at different depths were measured and compared with those of undamaged liver cells. The inverse analysis method was used to simulate the finite element model in vitro. Changes in the parameters of the cell model after injury were explored and analyzed, and their potential for characterizing hepatocellular injury and related treatments was evaluated. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This study aims to establish an in vitro hyperelastic model of liver cells and analyze the mechanical changes of cells in vitro. An analysis method combining finite element analysis model and nanoindentation was used to obtain the key parameters of the model. The multi-depth mechanical differences and internal structural changes of injured liver cells were analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zeng
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, China
| | - Xianping Liu
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Zuobin Wang
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- JR3CN & IRAC, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | - Wei Gao
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, China
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Shengli Zhang
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Wang
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Yunqing Liu
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Haiyue Yu
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
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10
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Yang Z, Wang X, Fu Y, Wu W, Hu Z, Lin Q, Peng W, Pan Y, Wang J, Chen J, Hu D, Zhou Z, Xu L, Zhang Y, Hou J, Chen M. YTHDF2 in peritumoral hepatocytes mediates chemotherapy-induced antitumor immune responses through CX3CL1-mediated CD8 + T cell recruitment. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:186. [PMID: 39237909 PMCID: PMC11378438 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02097-6] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Peritumoral hepatocytes are critical components of the liver cancer microenvironment, However, the role of peritumoral hepatocytes in the local tumor immune interface and the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. YTHDF2, an RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader, is critical for liver tumor progression. The function and regulatory roles of YTHDF2 in peritumoral hepatocytes are unknown. This study demonstrated that oxaliplatin (OXA) upregulated m6A modification and YTHDF2 expression in hepatocytes. Studies using tumor-bearing liver-specific Ythdf2 knockout mice revealed that hepatocyte YTHDF2 suppresses liver tumor growth through CD8+ T cell recruitment and activation. Additionally, YTHDF2 mediated the response to immunotherapy. Mechanistically, OXA upregulated YTHDF2 expression by activating the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and consequently enhanced the therapeutic outcomes of immunotherapeutic interventions. Ythdf2 stabilized Cx3cl1 transcripts in an m6A-dependent manner, regulating the interplay between CD8+ T cells and the progression of liver malignancies. Thus, this study elucidated the novel role of hepatocyte YTHDF2, which promotes therapy-induced antitumor immune responses in the liver. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the mechanism underlying the therapeutic benefits of targeting YTHDF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyun Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yizhen Fu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Weijie Wu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Zili Hu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyang Lin
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Peng
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yangxun Pan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Juncheng Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinbin Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Dandan Hu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhongguo Zhou
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaojun Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiajie Hou
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, SAR, China.
- MOE Frontier Science Centre for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau, SAR, China.
| | - Minshan Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
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11
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Zhang Y, Zhang C, Peng C, Jia J. Unraveling the crosstalk: circRNAs and the wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:853-864. [PMID: 38586314 PMCID: PMC10995981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.03.004] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNA (circRNA) is a unique type of noncoding RNA molecule characterized by its closed-loop structure. Functionally versatile, circRNAs play pivotal roles in gene expression regulation, protein activity modulation, and participation in cell signaling processes. In the context of cancers of the digestive system, the Wnt signaling pathway holds particular significance. Anomalous activation of the Wnt pathway serves as a primary catalyst for the development of colorectal cancer. Extensive research underscores the notable participation of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway in the progression of digestive system tumors. These circRNAs exhibit pronounced dysregulation across esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma. Furthermore, the altered expression of circRNAs linked to the Wnt pathway correlates with prognostic factors in digestive system tumors. Additionally, circRNAs related to the Wnt pathway showcase potential as diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic markers within the realm of digestive system tumors. This comprehensive review outlines the interplay between circRNAs and the Wnt signaling pathway in cancers of the digestive system. It seeks to provide a comprehensive perspective on their association while delving into ongoing research that explores the clinical applications of circRNAs associated with the Wnt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chuanhui Peng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junjun Jia
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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12
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Zhang B, Li Z, Ye G, Hu K. Biologic activity and treatment resistance to gastrointestinal cancer: the role of circular RNA in autophagy regulation. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1393670. [PMID: 39281375 PMCID: PMC11392687 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1393670] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) lack the 5'-end methylated guanine cap structure and 3' polyadenylate tail structure, classifying it as a non-coding RNA. With the extensive investigation of circRNA, its role in regulating cell death has garnered significant attention in recent years, establishing it as a recognized participant in cancer's biological processes. Autophagy, an essential pathway in programmed cell death (PCD), involves the formation of autophagosomes using lysosomes to degrade cellular contents under the regulation of various autophagy-related (ATG) genes. Numerous studies have demonstrated that circRNA can modulate the biological activity of cancer cells by influencing the autophagy pathway, exhibiting a dualistic role in suppressing or promoting carcinogenesis. In this review, we comprehensively analyze how autophagy-related circRNA impacts the progression of gastrointestinal cancer (GIC). Additionally, we discuss drug resistance phenomena associated with autophagy regulation in GIC. This review offers valuable insights into exploring potential biological targets for prognosis and treatment strategies related to GIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Guoliang Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Kefeng Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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13
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Chen W, Tan M, Zhang H, Gao T, Ren J, Cheng S, Chen J. Signaling molecules in the microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:146. [PMID: 39207523 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01427-7] [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: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major fatal cancer that is known for its high recurrence and metastasis. An increasing number of studies have shown that the tumor microenvironment is closely related to the metastasis and invasion of HCC. The HCC microenvironment is a complex integrated system composed of cellular components, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and signaling molecules such as chemokines, growth factors, and cytokines, which are generally regarded as crucial molecules that regulate a series of important processes, such as the migration and invasion of HCC cells. Considering the crucial role of signaling molecules, this review aims to elucidate the regulatory effects of chemokines, growth factors, and cytokines on HCC cells in their microenvironment to provide important references for clarifying the development of HCC and exploring effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (Ministry of Education), College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Ming Tan
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Tingting Gao
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jihua Ren
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Shengtao Cheng
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Juan Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated By the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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14
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Rennert C, Hofmann M. The Q for immune evasion in HCC: ER stress in myeloid cells. Gut 2024:gutjnl-2024-333249. [PMID: 39209522 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2024-333249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Rennert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Maike Hofmann
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
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15
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Jiang C, Zhang ZH, Li JX. Consideration on immunotherapy of liver metastases of malignant tumors. World J Gastrointest Surg 2024; 16:2374-2381. [PMID: 39220060 PMCID: PMC11362915 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v16.i8.2374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In this editorial, we comment on the article "Analysis of the impact of immunotherapy efficacy and safety in patients with gastric cancer and liver metastasis" by Liu et al that was published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. It has prompted us to think and summarize some thoughts on immunotherapy for malignant tumor liver metastasis. Immunotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of malignant tumors; however, the presence of liver metastases in advanced tumors may impact its efficacy. Although patients with liver metastases can still benefit from immunotherapy, multiple clinical studies have indicated that, compared to other sites of metastasis, liver metastases may diminish the effectiveness of immunotherapy. The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with liver metastases often fails to reach the ideal level, primarily due to the liver metastases exploiting the host's peripheral immune tolerance mechanisms to promote systemic CD8(+) T cell exhaustion, resulting in a systemic immune-tolerant environment. This article aims to summarize the reasons for the decreased efficacy of immunotherapy following liver metastasis in various malignant tumors and propose potential clinical strategies for management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Jiang
- Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Liver Surgery, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Zhang
- Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Liver Surgery, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jia-Xin Li
- Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Liver Surgery, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of General Surgery, Dafang County People's Hospital, Bijie 551600, Guizhou Province, China
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16
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Wu H, Zhang G, Yang X. Labeled sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor based on Ti 3C 2T x/AuNP and Ti 3C 2T x/HKUST-1/TB composites for early liver cancer detection. Mikrochim Acta 2024; 191:565. [PMID: 39192061 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-024-06618-4] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
A novel sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of the liver cancer marker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in human serum is proposed. The two-dimensional MXene material Ti3C2Tx was first prepared using etching and ultrasonic stripping, and then Ti3C2Tx was used to reduce chloroauric acid to form Ti3C2Tx/AuNP composites which were modified on the surface of the glassy carbon electrodes to form probe-type sensors. The Ti3C2Tx/AuNPs provide a large number of binding sites for the AFP capture antibody (Ab1) and increase the electrochemical reaction active site. The Ti3C2Tx/copper metal-organic frameworks HKUST-1 composite was also prepared by solvothermal method and combined with toluidine blue (TB) and AFP detection antibody (Ab2) to form a labeled sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor. The sensor achieved trace detection of AFP from 0.1 to 100 ng/mL with a detection limit of 0.073 pg/mL and possesses good selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. The sensor performs well in clinical samples and has good potential for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Wu
- Department of Physics and Energy, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China
| | - Gang Zhang
- Institute of High Performance Computing, ASTAR S138632, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiaozhan Yang
- Department of Physics and Energy, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Green Energy Materials Technology and Systems, Chongqing, 400054, China.
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Zheng X, Yang L, Shen X, Pan J, Chen Y, Chen J, Wang H, Meng J, Chen Z, Xie S, Li Y, Zhu B, Zhu W, Qin L, Lu L. Targeting Gsk3a reverses immune evasion to enhance immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e009642. [PMID: 39174053 PMCID: PMC11340705 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009642] [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] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune escape is an important feature of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The overall response rate of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in HCC is still limited. Revealing the immune regulation mechanisms and finding new immune targets are expected to further improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. Our study aims to use CRISPR screening mice models to identify potential targets that play a critical role in HCC immune evasion and further explore their value in improving immunotherapy. METHODS We performed CRISPR screening in two mice models with different immune backgrounds (C57BL/6 and NPG mice) and identified the immunosuppressive gene Gsk3a as a candidate for further investigation. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the impact of Gsk3a on immune cell infiltration and T-cell function. RNA sequencing was used to identify the changes in neutrophil gene expression induced by Gsk3a and alterations in downstream molecules. The therapeutic value of the combination of Gsk3a inhibitors and anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) antibody was also explored. RESULTS Gsk3a, as an immune inhibitory target, significantly promoted tumor growth in immunocompetent mice rather than immune-deficient mice. Gsk3a inhibited cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) function by inducing neutrophil chemotaxis. Gsk3a promoted self-chemotaxis of neutrophil expression profiles and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation to block T-cell activity through leucine-rich α-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1). A significant synergistic effect was observed when Gsk3a inhibitor was in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody. CONCLUSIONS We identified a potential HCC immune evasion target, Gsk3a, through CRISPR screening. Gsk3a induces neutrophil recruitment and NETs formation through the intermediate molecule LRG1, leading to the inhibition of CTLs function. Targeting Gsk3a can enhance CTLs function and improve the efficacy of ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luyu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaotian Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junjie Pan
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiran Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jixuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaqi Meng
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenchao Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sunzhe Xie
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yitong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bolun Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenwei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lunxiu Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery Center, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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18
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Cao LQ, Xie Y, Fleishman JS, Liu X, Chen ZS. Hepatocellular carcinoma and lipid metabolism: Novel targets and therapeutic strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 597:217061. [PMID: 38876384 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217061] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an increasingly prevalent disease that is associated with high and continually rising mortality rates. Lipid metabolism holds a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HCC, in which abnormalities pertaining to the delicate balance of lipid synthesis, breakdown, and storage, predispose for the pathogenesis of the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a disease precursor to HCC. If caught early enough, HCC treatment may be curative. In later stages, treatment is only halting the inevitable outcome of death, boldly prompting for novel drug discovery to provide a fighting chance for this patient population. In this review, we begin by providing a summary of current local and systemic treatments against HCC. From such we discuss hepatic lipid metabolism and highlight novel targets that are ripe for anti-cancer drug discovery. Lastly, we provide a targeted summary of current known risk factors for HCC pathogenesis, providing key insights that will be essential for rationalizing future development of anti-HCC therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Qi Cao
- Institute for Biotechnology, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA; College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Yuhao Xie
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Joshua S Fleishman
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Xuan Liu
- Shenzhen Hospital (Futian) of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518034, China.
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Institute for Biotechnology, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA; College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, New York, NY, 11439, USA.
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19
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D'Artista L, Seehawer M. Cell Death and Survival Mechanisms in Cholangiocarcinogenesis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024:S0002-9440(24)00278-5. [PMID: 39103094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and other liver cancer subtypes often develop in damaged organs. Physiological agents or extrinsic factors, like toxins, can induce cell death in such tissues, triggering compensatory proliferation and inflammation. Depending on extracellular and intracellular factors, different mechanisms, like apoptosis, necroptosis, ferroptosis, or autophagy, can be triggered. Each of them can lead to protumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic events within a cell or through regulation of the microenvironment. However, the exact role of each cell death mechanism in CCA onset, progression, and treatment is not well known. Here, we summarize current knowledge of different cell death mechanisms in patients with CCA and preclinical CCA research. We discuss cell death-related drugs with relevance to CCA treatment and how they could be used in the future to improve targeted CCA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana D'Artista
- Center of Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marco Seehawer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Yin Y, Feng W, Chen J, Chen X, Wang G, Wang S, Xu X, Nie Y, Fan D, Wu K, Xia L. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in the progression, metastasis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: from bench to bedside. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:72. [PMID: 39085965 PMCID: PMC11292955 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00539-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence, recurrence, and metastasis rates. The emergence of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of advanced HCC, but problems such as drug resistance and immune-related adverse events still exist in clinical practice. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC restricts the efficacy of immunotherapy and is essential for HCC progression and metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms behind immunosuppressive TME to develop and apply immunotherapy. This review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of HCC, the formation of the highly heterogeneous TME, and the mechanisms by which the immunosuppressive TME accelerates HCC progression and metastasis. We also review the status of HCC immunotherapy and further discuss the existing challenges and potential therapeutic strategies targeting immunosuppressive TME. We hope to inspire optimizing and innovating immunotherapeutic strategies by comprehensively understanding the structure and function of immunosuppressive TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Weibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xilang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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Chen M, Liu W, Liu B. Cryoablation with KCl Solution Enhances Necrosis and Apoptosis of HepG2 Liver Cancer Cells. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:2118-2133. [PMID: 38615077 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03512-1] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Cryoablation has become a valuable treatment modality for the management of liver cancer. However, one of the major challenges in cryosurgery is the incomplete cryodestruction near the edge of the iceball. This issue can be addressed by optimizing cryoablation parameters and administering thermotropic drugs prior to the procedure. These drugs help enhance tumor response, thereby strengthening the destruction of the incomplete frozen zone in liver cance. In the present study, the feasibility and effectiveness of a thermophysical agent, KCl solution, were investigated to enhance the cryodestruction of HepG2 human liver cancer cells. All cryoablation parameters were simultaneously optimized in order to significantly improve the effect of cryoablation, resulting in an increase in the lethal temperature from - 25 °C to - 17 °C. Subsequently, it was found that the application of KCl solution prior to freezing significantly decreased cell viability post-thaw compared to cryoablation treatment alone. This effect was attributed to the eutectic effect of KCl solution. Importantly, it was found that the combination of KCl solution and freezing was less effective when applied to LO2 human liver normal cells. The data revealed that the ratio of mRNA levels of Bcl-2 and bax decreased significantly more in HepG2 cells than in LO2 cells when cryoablation was used with KCl solution. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of KCl solution in promoting cryoablation and describe a novel therapeutic model for the treatment of liver cancer that may distinguish between cancer and normal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu Chen
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, 200093, China
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Tumor Treatment with Energy, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, 200093, China
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Tumor Treatment with Energy, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Baolin Liu
- Institute of Biothermal Science and Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China.
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, 200093, China.
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Tumor Treatment with Energy, Shanghai, 200093, China.
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Tang X, Gao L, Jiang X, Hou Z, Wang Y, Hou S, Qu H. Single-cell profiling reveals altered immune landscape and impaired NK cell function in gastric cancer liver metastasis. Oncogene 2024; 43:2635-2646. [PMID: 39060439 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03114-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a substantial global health concern, and the development of liver metastasis (LM) in GC represents a critical stage linked to unfavorable patient prognoses. In this study, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to investigate the immune landscape of GC liver metastasis, revealing several immuno-suppressive components within the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM). Our findings unveiled an increased presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC)-like macrophages, tumor-associated macrophage (TAM)-like macrophages, and naive T cells, while conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and effector CD8 T cells declined in LM. Additionally, we identified two distinct natural killer (NK) cell clusters exhibiting differential cytotoxicity-related gene expression, with cytotoxic NK cells notably reduced in LM. Strikingly, TGFβ was identified as an inducer of NK cell dysfunction, potentially contributing to immune evasion and tumor metastasis. In preclinical LM models, the combined approach of inhibiting TGFβ and transferring NK cells exhibited a synergistic impact, resulting in a significant reduction in liver metastasis. This work highlights the importance of understanding the complex immune dynamics within GC liver metastasis and presents a promising strategy combining TGFβ inhibition and NK-based immunotherapy to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xingzhi Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Qilu Medical College of Shandong University, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Zhenyu Hou
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Yiwen Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Qilu Medical College of Shandong University, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Shiyang Hou
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Qilu Medical College of Shandong University, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Hui Qu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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Zhang HJ, Luo JZ, Lan CL, Teng X, Ge B, Liu JQ, Xie HX, Yang KJ, Qin CJ, Zhou X, Peng T. Baicalin protects against hepatocyte injury caused by aflatoxin B 1 via the TP53-related ferroptosis Pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 281:116661. [PMID: 38954907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116661] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Baicalin has antioxidative, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its ability to alleviate oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage in liver cells exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a highly hepatotoxic compound, remains uncertain. In this study, the protective effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury and the mechanisms underlying those effects were investigated. METHODS Stable cell lines expressing CYP3A4 were established using lentiviral vectors to assess oxidative stress levels by conducting assays to determine the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, DNA damage was evaluated by 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and comet assays. Transcriptome sequencing, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the mechanisms underlying the effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury. In vivo, a rat model of hepatocyte injury induced by AFB1 was used to evaluate the effects of baicalin. RESULTS In vitro, baicalin significantly attenuated AFB1-induced injury caused due to OS, as determined by a decrease in ROS, MDA, and SOD levels. Baicalin also considerably decreased AFB1-induced DNA damage in hepatocytes. This protective effect of baicalin was found to be closely associated with the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. To elaborate, baicalin physically interacts with P53, leading to the suppression of the expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11, which in turn inhibits ferroptosis. In vivo findings showed that baicalin decreased DNA damage and ferroptosis in AFB1-treated rat liver tissues, as determined by a decrease in the expression of γ-H2AX and an increase in GPX4 and SLC7A11 levels. Overexpression of TP53 weakened the protective effects of baicalin. CONCLUSIONS Baicalin can alleviate AFB1-induced OS and DNA damage in liver cells via the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. In this study, a theoretical foundation was established for the use of baicalin in protecting the liver from the toxic effects of AFB1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Jing Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China; Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Jian-Zhu Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Chen-Lu Lan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiong Teng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Bin Ge
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Jun-Qi Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Hai-Xiang Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Ke-Jian Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Chong-Jiu Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Tao Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Nanning 530021, China.
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Li Z, Wang D, Zhu X. Unveiling the functions of five recently characterized lncRNAs in cancer progression. Clin Transl Oncol 2024:10.1007/s12094-024-03619-w. [PMID: 39066874 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-024-03619-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Numerous studies over the past few decades have shown that RNAs are multifaceted, multifunctional regulators of most cellular processes, contrary to the initial belief that they only act as mediators for translating DNA into proteins. LncRNAs, which refer to transcripts longer than 200nt and lack the ability to code for proteins, have recently been identified as central regulators of a variety of biochemical and cellular processes, particularly cancer. When they are abnormally expressed, they are closely associated with tumor occurrence, metastasis, and tumor staging. Therefore, through searches on Google Scholar, PubMed, and CNKI, we identified five five recently characterized lncRNAs-Lnc-SLC2A12-10:1, LncRNA BCRT1, lncRNA IGFBP4-1, LncRNA PCNAP1, and LncRNA CDC6-that have been linked to the promotion of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Consequently, this review encapsulates the existing research and molecular underpinnings of these five newly identified lncRNAs across various types of cancer. It suggests that these novel lncRNAs hold potential as independent biomarkers for clinical diagnosis and prognosis, as well as candidates for therapeutic intervention. In parallel, we discuss the challenges inherent in the research on these five newly discovered lncRNAs and look forward to the avenues for future exploration in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Li
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China.
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25
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Wang X, Zhu Z. A Mendelian randomization analysis reveals the multifaceted role of the skin microbiota in liver cancer. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1422132. [PMID: 39113845 PMCID: PMC11303314 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1422132] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, or hepatic cancer, HC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA, or hepatic bile duct cancer, HBDC) are two major types of primary liver cancer (PLC). Previous studies have suggested that microbiota can either act as risk factors or preventive factors in PLC. However, no study has reported the relationship between skin microbiota and PLC. Therefore, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to assess the causality between skin microbiota and PLC. Methods Data from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) on skin microbiota were collected. The GWAS summary data of GCST90018803 (HBDC) and GCST90018858 (HC) were utilized in the discovery and verification phases, respectively. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized as the principal method in our MR study. The MR-Egger intercept test, Cochran's Q-test, MR-Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), and leave-one-out analysis were conducted to identify the heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Results The results showed that Veillonella (unc.) plays a protective role in HBDC, while the family Neisseriaceae has a positive association with HBDC risk. The class Betaproteobacteria, Veillonella (unc.), and the phylum Bacillota (Firmicutes) play a protective role in HC. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Corynebacterium (unc.), the family Neisseriaceae, and Pasteurellaceae sp. were associated with an increased risk of HC. Conclusion This study provided new evidence regarding the association between skin microbiota and PLC, suggesting that skin microbiota plays a role in PLC progression. Skin microbiota could be a novel and effective way for PLC diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zexin Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Comprehensive Breast Care Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Kong Y, Wang Y, Yang Q, Ye S. Immunotherapy and liver cancer research trends and the 100 most cited articles: A bibliometric analysis. Technol Health Care 2024:THC241111. [PMID: 39093101 DOI: 10.3233/thc-241111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bibliometric analysis of liver cancer research, particularly in immunotherapy, reveals crucial insights. The US leads in liver cancer mortality but ranks fifth globally. OBJECTIVE Scopus database analysis identified 2,349 papers, with the top 100 ranging from 127 to 4,959 citations. Notably, "Microenvironmental Regulation of Tumours Progression and Metastasis" in the Journal of Nature Medicine garnered the highest citations. METHODS Journals like the Journal of Hepatology, Hepatology, and Nature Reports Clinical Oncology contributed significantly. Understanding molecular mechanisms and prognostic indicators is paramount for advancing combination therapies. RESULTS For better patient outcomes, research trends in liver cancer immunotherapy point to improved treatment protocols, knowledge of the tumor microenvironment, combining therapies, predicting disease course, international cooperation, sophisticated surgical techniques, early detection, oncolytic virotherapy, and patient-centered care. CONCLUSIONS This research underscores immunotherapy's pivotal role and encourages further exploration, offering valuable insights into liver cancer treatment trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Kong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qifan Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center, Diagnosis and Treatment Technology for Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Medicine Innovation Center, Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Yang Y, Pei T, Liu C, Cao M, Hu X, Yuan J, Chen F, Guo B, Hong Y, Liu J, Li B, Li X, Wang H. Glutamine metabolic competition drives immunosuppressive reprogramming of intratumour GPR109A + myeloid cells to promote liver cancer progression. Gut 2024:gutjnl-2024-332429. [PMID: 38981667 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2024-332429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The metabolic characteristics of liver cancer drive considerable hurdles to immune cells function and cancer immunotherapy. However, how metabolic reprograming in the tumour microenvironment impairs the antitumour immune response remains unclear. DESIGN Human samples and multiple murine models were employed to evaluate the correlation between GPR109A and liver cancer progression. GPR109A knockout mice, immune cells depletion and primary cell coculture models were used to determine the regulation of GPR109A on tumour microenvironment and identify the underlying mechanism responsible for the formation of intratumour GPR109A+myeloid cells. RESULTS We demonstrate that glutamine shortage in liver cancer tumour microenvironment drives an immunosuppressive GPR109A+myeloid cells infiltration, leading to the evasion of immune surveillance. Blockade of GPR109A decreases G-MDSCs and M2-like TAMs abundance to trigger the antitumour responses of CD8+ T cells and further improves the immunotherapy efficacy against liver cancer. Mechanistically, tumour cells and tumour-infiltrated myeloid cells compete for glutamine uptake via the transporter SLC1A5 to control antitumour immunity, which disrupts the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homoeostasis and induces unfolded protein response of myeloid cells to promote GPR109A expression through IRE1α/XBP1 pathway. The restriction of glutamine uptake in liver cancer cells, as well as the blockade of IRE1α/XBP1 signalling or glutamine supplementation, can eliminate the immunosuppressive effects of GPR109A+ myeloid cells and slow down tumour progression. CONCLUSION Our findings identify the immunometabolic crosstalk between liver cancer cells and myeloid cells facilitates tumour progression via a glutamine metabolism/ER stress/GPR109A axis, suggesting that GPR109A can be exploited as an immunometabolic checkpoint and putative target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianduo Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaobao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingtao Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengqian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuemei Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jibin Liu
- Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Bin Li
- Biliary Tract Surgery Department I, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Secondary Military Medicine University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Zhang Z, Zhang Y, Hu G, Wu Q, Zhou Y, Luo F. Conduction and validation of a novel mitotic spindle assembly related signature in hepatocellular carcinoma: prognostic prediction, tumor immune microenvironment and drug susceptibility. Front Genet 2024; 15:1412303. [PMID: 39100078 PMCID: PMC11294156 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1412303] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: We have developed a risk-scoring model using gene expression levels related to mitotic spindle assembly (MSA) to predict the prognosis of liver cancer. Methods and results: Initially, we identified 470 genes related to MSA from public databases. Subsequently, through analysis of sequencing data from liver cancer patient samples in online databases, we identified 7 genes suitable for constructing the risk-scoring model. We validated the predictive accuracy and clinical utility of the model. Through drug sensitivity analysis, we identified SAC3D1 as a gene sensitive to the most common anti-tumor drugs among these 7 genes. We propose SAC3D1 as a significant target for future clinical treatment. Furthermore, we conducted in vivo and in vitro experiments to validate the relevance of SAC3D1 to MSA and found its significant impact on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and spindle function. Conclusion: Our research introduces a novel risk-scoring model that accurately predicts liver cancer prognosis. Additionally, our findings suggest SAC3D1 as a promising therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma, potentially revealing new mechanisms underlying liver cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuezhou Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gangli Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qianxue Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fang Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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29
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Lin L, Chen Q. Yadanziolide A Inhibits Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma via JAK-STAT Pathway: A Preclinical Study. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:528. [PMID: 39056720 PMCID: PMC11274273 DOI: 10.3390/biology13070528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer is a significant global health concern, prompting the search for innovative therapeutic solutions. Yadanziolide A (Y-A), a natural derivative of Brucea javanica, has emerged as a promising candidate for cancer treatment; however, its efficacy and underlying mechanisms in liver cancer remain incompletely understood. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Y-A's effects on liver cancer cells using a range of in vitro assays and an orthotopic liver cancer mouse model. Our findings reveal that Y-A exerts dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on liver cancer cells, significantly inhibiting proliferation, migration, and invasion at concentrations ≥ 0.1 μM. Furthermore, Y-A induces apoptosis, as evidenced by increased apoptotic cell populations and apoptosome formation. In vivo studies confirm that Y-A inhibits tumor growth and reduces liver damage in mouse models. Mechanistically, Y-A targets the TNF-α/STAT3 pathway, inhibiting STAT3 and JAK2 phosphorylation, thereby activating apoptotic pathways and suppressing tumor cell growth. These results suggest that Y-A has promising anticancer activity and potential utility in liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, College Town, Fuzhou 350117, China;
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Zhang Y, Xu W, Peng C, Ren S, Zhang C. Intricate effects of post-translational modifications in liver cancer: mechanisms to clinical applications. J Transl Med 2024; 22:651. [PMID: 38997696 PMCID: PMC11245821 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05455-6] [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: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is a significant global health challenge, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most prevalent form, characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. Despite advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapies, the prognosis for advanced liver cancer remains poor. This underscores the urgent need for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying HCC to enable early detection and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are crucial regulatory mechanisms in cellular biology, affecting protein functionality, interactions, and localization. These modifications, including phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, and glycosylation, occur after protein synthesis and play vital roles in various cellular processes. Recent advances in proteomics and molecular biology have highlighted the complex networks of PTMs, emphasizing their critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and disease pathogenesis. Dysregulation of PTMs has been associated with several malignant cellular processes in HCC, such as altered cell proliferation, migration, immune evasion, and metabolic reprogramming, contributing to tumor growth and metastasis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pathological mechanisms and clinical implications of various PTMs in liver cancer. By exploring the multifaceted interactions of PTMs and their impact on liver cancer progression, we highlight the potential of PTMs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The significance of this review lies in its potential to inform the development of novel therapeutic approaches and improve prognostic tools for early intervention in the fight against liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weihao Xu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chuanhui Peng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shenli Ren
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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31
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Gao Y, Chen S, Wang H, Wu C, An R, Li G, Yang M, Zhou Y, Zhou Y, Xie X, Yu H, Zhang J. Liver metastases across cancer types sharing tumor environment immunotolerance can impede immune response therapy and immune monitoring. J Adv Res 2024; 61:151-164. [PMID: 37619932 PMCID: PMC11258657 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic immune tolerance might contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance to immunotherapy. However, addressing this issue is challenging since the efficacy of immunotherapy in the context of liver metastasis (LM) remains poorly studied. Here, we aimed to establish an LM common immune feature (LMCIF) score to quantify the characteristics of LM immunotolerance across cancer types for assisting clinical disease management. METHODS Large-scale clinical data were collected to identify the prognosis of LM. Multi-omics datasets of metastatic cancers with LM special immune-related pathways (LMSIPs) from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB)were used to obtain an LMCIF cluster. Based on differential expression genes (DEGs), a novel LMCIF score for the LMCIF cluster was constructed. In addition, multi-omics, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) data from the public and in-house cohorts were used to explore the features of LM, and LMCIF score. RESULTS Patients with LM had a worse prognosis and significantly lower infiltration of immune cells than patients with metastasis to other organs when analyzed with combined clinical and RNA sequencing data. After extracting the LMCIF cluster from 373 samples by utilizing 29 LMSIPs and validating them in a microarray cohort, an LMCIF score was established to confirm the role of the immunosuppressive environment as a contributor to the poor prognosis of LM across cancer types. Moreover, this LMCIF score could be used to predict the immune response of cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. Finally, we identified that the majority of the 31 LMCIF genes exhibited a negative correlation with TME cells in LM patients, one of them, KRT19, which possessed the strongest positive correlation with LMCIF score, was confirmed to have an immunosuppressive effect through IHC analysis. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that LM across cancer types share similar immunological profiles that induce immunotolerance and escape from immune monitoring. The novel LMCIF score represents a common liver metastasis immune cluster for predicting immunotherapy response, the results of which might benefit clinical disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shipeng Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Genetic Testing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenghao Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rui An
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guoli Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yundong Zhou
- Shanghai Medical Innovation Fusion Biomedical Research Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyou Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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32
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Liu Y, Huang Y, Le Y, Gao Y, Wang H, Yang J, Wang J, Zou C, Li Q. Prognostic insights, immune infiltration, and therapeutic response: Cytoplasmic poly(A) tail regulators in hepatocellular carcinoma. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200816. [PMID: 38948919 PMCID: PMC11214399 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The presence of a poly(A) tail is indispensable for the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in cancer. This dynamic and modifiable feature of transcripts is under the control of various nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins. This study aimed to develop a novel cytoplasmic poly(A)-related signature for predicting prognosis, clinical attributes, tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), and treatment response in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Utilizing RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), non-negative matrix factorization (NMF), and principal-component analysis (PCA) were employed to categorize HCC patients into three clusters, thus demonstrating the pivotal prognostic role of cytoplasmic poly(A) tail regulators. Furthermore, machine learning algorithms such as least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), survival analysis, and Cox proportional hazards modeling were able to distinguish distinct cytoplasmic poly(A) subtypes. As a result, a 5-gene signature derived from TCGA was developed and validated using International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) HCC datasets. This novel classification based on cytoplasmic poly(A) regulators has the potential to improve prognostic predictions and provide guidance for chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Neurobiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yunting Le
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Yating Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Jialin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Chaoxia Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
- Translational Medicine Research and Cooperation Center of Northern China, Heilongjiang Academy of Medicine Sciences, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, China
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33
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Wei H, Zhang Y, Gao M, Yang J, Wang S, Zhou X, Wei H, Xiao F. Loss of FAM172A gene prompts cell proliferation in liver regeneration. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05044-7. [PMID: 38896202 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05044-7] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The present study was designed to explore the function of FAM172A in liver regeneration and HCC. Mice were sacrificed after 70% partial hepatectomy (PH). RNA sequencing was performed on primary hepatocytes of WT and FAM172A-/- mice. We used HepG2 cells to construct cell lines with stably knockdown and overexpression of FAM172A. The expression of FAM172A in liver tissues was investigated by immunohistochemical staining, and we also used public database to perform survival analysis and prognostic model in HCC. Compared with WT mice after PH, normalized liver weight/body weight (LW/BW) ratio and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein level of FAM172A-/- mice elevated. The DEGs were mainly enriched in inflammatory response, tumor necrosis factor production, and wound healing. FAM172A knockdown enhanced the NFκB-TNFα and pERK-YAP1-Cyclin D1 axis. FAM172A peptide inhibited proliferation of primary hepatocytes. Moreover, the low expression of FAM172A in human HCC tissues implies a lower likelihood of survival and a valid diagnostic marker for HCC. Loss of FAM172A gene promotes cell proliferation by pERK-YAP1-Cyclin D1 and pNFκB-TNFα pathways during liver regeneration after PH. FAM172A may be a favorable diagnosis marker of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herui Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
- Clinical Center of Immune-Mediated Digestive Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Meixin Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Junru Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Shiwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
- Clinical Center of Immune-Mediated Digestive Diseases, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Xingang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China
| | - Hongshan Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
| | - Fan Xiao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100015, China.
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, China.
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34
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Liu Q, Zhang X, Qi J, Tian X, Dovjak E, Zhang J, Du H, Zhang N, Zhao J, Zhang Y, Wang L, Wei Y, Liu C, Qian R, Xiang L, Li W, Xiu P, Ma C, Yu Y, Jiang S. Comprehensive profiling of lipid metabolic reprogramming expands precision medicine for HCC. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00919. [PMID: 38899975 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Liver HCC is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The heterogeneity of this malignancy is driven by a wide range of genetic alterations, leading to a lack of effective therapeutic options. In this study, we conducted a systematic multi-omics characterization of HCC to uncover its metabolic reprogramming signature. APPROACH AND RESULTS Through a comprehensive analysis incorporating transcriptomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic investigations, we identified significant changes in metabolic pathways related to glucose flux, lipid oxidation and degradation, and de novo lipogenesis in HCC. The lipidomic analysis revealed abnormal alterations in glycerol-lipids, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingolipid derivatives. Machine-learning techniques identified a panel of genes associated with lipid metabolism as common biomarkers for HCC across different etiologies. Our findings suggest that targeting phosphatidylcholine with saturated fatty acids and long-chain sphingolipid biosynthesis pathways, particularly by inhibiting lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 ( LPCAT1 ) and ceramide synthase 5 ( CERS5 ) as potential therapeutic strategies for HCC in vivo and in vitro. Notably, our data revealed an oncogenic role of CERS5 in promoting tumor progression through lipophagy. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our study elucidates the metabolic reprogramming nature of lipid metabolism in HCC, identifies prognostic markers and therapeutic targets, and highlights potential metabolism-related targets for therapeutic intervention in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingbin Liu
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
- Post-Doctoral Research Center, Cisen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Jining, Shandong, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- Pathology Department, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjing Qi
- Medical Faculty, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Xinchen Tian
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Eva Dovjak
- Medical Faculty, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Honghuan Du
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Ni Zhang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Department of Ultrasonic Medicine, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yangang Wei
- Post-Doctoral Research Center, Cisen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Chenqiao Liu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Ruikun Qian
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Longquan Xiang
- Pathology Department, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Weiyang Li
- School of Biological Sciences, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Xiu
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Province Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated With Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Changlin Ma
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Department, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Medical Faculty, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Shulong Jiang
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People's Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
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Başaran E, Köprü S, Akkoç S, Türkmenoğlu B. Investigation of Newly Synthesized Fluorinated Isatin-Hydrazones by In Vitro Antiproliferative Activity, Molecular Docking, ADME Analysis, and e-Pharmacophore Modeling. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:26503-26518. [PMID: 38911768 PMCID: PMC11191101 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the in vitro antiproliferative activities and performed computational studies of newly synthesized fluorinated isatin-hydrazones. The chemical structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by FT-IR, 1D NMR (1H- and 13C NMR and APT), 2D NMR (HETCOR and HMBC), and elemental analysis. All compounds (1-15) were tested in human lung (A549) and liver (HepG2) cancer cell lines for 72 h. The compounds were screened against a healthy embryonic kidney cell line (HEK-293T) under the same conditions to determine their toxic effects. According to the results obtained, one of the compounds, in particular, compound 8 was effective at inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells, and its effects on both cancer cell lines were similar to IC50 values of 42.43 and 48.43 μM for A549 and HepG2, respectively. Compound 8, which was determined to be the best anticancer agent in vitro, was chosen to interact with the target via molecular docking. This selected ligand (compound 8) interacted with the targets 4HJO, 4ASD, 3POZ, and 7TZ7, and docked into the active sites. The docking score, Glide energy, and Glide emodel values were calculated and determined to be lower than those of the reference compound cisplatin. The pharmacokinetic properties, stability, and drug-likeness parameters of all designed compounds were estimated using SwissADME. Finally, the binding affinities of compound 8 for all four targets were calculated using the MM-GBSA method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyüp Başaran
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Processing Technologies, Vocational School
of Technical Sciences, Batman University, Batman 72060, Türkiye
| | - Semiha Köprü
- Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Erciyes
University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
- Technology
Research and Application Center, Erciyes
University, Kayseri 38039, Türkiye
| | - Senem Akkoç
- Department
of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Türkiye
- Faculty
of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bahcesehir
University, Istanbul 34353, Türkiye
| | - Burçin Türkmenoğlu
- Department
of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erzincan Binali Yildirim University, Erzincan 24002, Türkiye
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36
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Wang X, Ding Q, Groleau RR, Wu L, Mao Y, Che F, Kotova O, Scanlan EM, Lewis SE, Li P, Tang B, James TD, Gunnlaugsson T. Fluorescent Probes for Disease Diagnosis. Chem Rev 2024; 124:7106-7164. [PMID: 38760012 PMCID: PMC11177268 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
The identification and detection of disease-related biomarkers is essential for early clinical diagnosis, evaluating disease progression, and for the development of therapeutics. Possessing the advantages of high sensitivity and selectivity, fluorescent probes have become effective tools for monitoring disease-related active molecules at the cellular level and in vivo. In this review, we describe current fluorescent probes designed for the detection and quantification of key bioactive molecules associated with common diseases, such as organ damage, inflammation, cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and brain disorders. We emphasize the strategies behind the design of fluorescent probes capable of disease biomarker detection and diagnosis and cover some aspects of combined diagnostic/therapeutic strategies based on regulating disease-related molecules. This review concludes with a discussion of the challenges and outlook for fluorescent probes, highlighting future avenues of research that should enable these probes to achieve accurate detection and identification of disease-related biomarkers for biomedical research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Ding
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
| | | | - Luling Wu
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Yuantao Mao
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feida Che
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
| | - Oxana Kotova
- School
of Chemistry and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI), Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 D02 R590, Ireland
- Advanced
Materials and BioEngineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Trinity College
Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 D02 W9K7, Ireland
| | - Eoin M. Scanlan
- School
of Chemistry and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI), Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 D02 R590, Ireland
- Synthesis
and Solid-State Pharmaceutical Centre (SSPC), School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 , Ireland
| | - Simon E. Lewis
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Ping Li
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Tang
- College
of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Key Laboratory
of Molecular and Nano Probes, Ministry of Education, Collaborative
Innovation Center of Functionalized Probes for Chemical Imaging in
Universities of Shandong, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, People’s Republic of China
- Laoshan
Laboratory, 168 Wenhai
Middle Road, Aoshanwei Jimo, Qingdao 266237, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tony D. James
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan
Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, People’s
Republic of China
| | - Thorfinnur Gunnlaugsson
- School
of Chemistry and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute (TBSI), Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 D02 R590, Ireland
- Advanced
Materials and BioEngineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Trinity College
Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 D02 W9K7, Ireland
- Synthesis
and Solid-State Pharmaceutical Centre (SSPC), School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin 2 , Ireland
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Xiong Z, Li L, Wang G, Guo L, Luo S, Liao X, Liu J, Teng W. Integrated Analysis of scRNA-Seq and Bulk RNA-Seq Reveals Metabolic Reprogramming of Liver Cancer and Establishes a Prognostic Risk Model. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:755. [PMID: 38927691 PMCID: PMC11203231 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060755] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer manifests as a profoundly heterogeneous malignancy, posing significant challenges in terms of both therapeutic intervention and prognostic evaluation. Given that the liver is the largest metabolic organ, a prognostic risk model grounded in single-cell transcriptome analysis and a metabolic perspective can facilitate precise prevention and treatment strategies for liver cancer. Hence, we identified 11 cell types in a scRNA-seq profile comprising 105,829 cells and found that the metabolic activity of malignant cells increased significantly. Subsequently, a prognostic risk model incorporating tumor heterogeneity, cell interactions, tumor cell metabolism, and differentially expressed genes was established based on eight genes; this model can accurately distinguish the survival outcomes of liver cancer patients and predict the response to immunotherapy. Analyzing the immune status and drug sensitivity of the high- and low-risk groups identified by the model revealed that the high-risk group had more active immune cell status and greater expression of immune checkpoints, indicating potential risks associated with liver cancer-targeted drugs. In summary, this study provides direct evidence for the stratification and precise treatment of liver cancer patients, and is an important step in establishing reliable predictors of treatment efficacy in liver cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Xiong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China;
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Medical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (L.G.); (S.L.); (X.L.)
| | - Lizhi Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China;
| | - Guoliang Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing 100101, China;
| | - Lei Guo
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Medical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (L.G.); (S.L.); (X.L.)
| | - Shangyi Luo
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Medical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (L.G.); (S.L.); (X.L.)
| | - Xiangwen Liao
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Medical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (L.G.); (S.L.); (X.L.)
| | - Jingfeng Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China;
| | - Wenhao Teng
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China;
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Medical Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (L.G.); (S.L.); (X.L.)
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38
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Li A, Wang R, Zhao Y, Zhao P, Yang J. Crosstalk between Epigenetics and Metabolic Reprogramming in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A New Sight. Metabolites 2024; 14:325. [PMID: 38921460 PMCID: PMC11205353 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14060325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming alterations are two important features of tumors, and their reversible, spatial, and temporal regulation is a distinctive hallmark of carcinogenesis. Epigenetics, which focuses on gene regulatory mechanisms beyond the DNA sequence, is a new entry point for tumor therapy. Moreover, metabolic reprogramming drives hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) initiation and progression, highlighting the significance of metabolism in this disease. Exploring the inter-regulatory relationship between tumor metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic modification has become one of the hot directions in current tumor metabolism research. As viral etiologies have given way to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)-induced HCC, it is urgent that complex molecular pathways linking them and hepatocarcinogenesis be explored. However, how aberrant crosstalk between epigenetic modifications and metabolic reprogramming affects MASLD-induced HCC lacks comprehensive understanding. A better understanding of their linkages is necessary and urgent to improve HCC treatment strategies. For this reason, this review examines the interwoven landscape of molecular carcinogenesis in the context of MASLD-induced HCC, focusing on mechanisms regulating aberrant epigenetic alterations and metabolic reprogramming in the development of MASLD-induced HCC and interactions between them while also updating the current advances in metabolism and epigenetic modification-based therapeutic drugs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Li
- College of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China; (A.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.Z.)
| | - Rui Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China;
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Education, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yuqiang Zhao
- College of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China; (A.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.Z.)
| | - Peiran Zhao
- College of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China; (A.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.Z.)
| | - Jing Yang
- College of Basic Medical Science, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China; (A.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.Z.)
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Zhou R, Song Y, Xu C, Zhang Y, Wu X, Zhang L, Luo X, Zhao H, Liu M, Xu J, Wang L, Chen Z, Han Q. Altered counts and mitochondrial mass of peripheral blood leucocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18440. [PMID: 38890792 PMCID: PMC11187856 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18440] [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: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) damages liver cells through abnormal immune responses. Mitochondrial metabolism is necessary for effector functions of white blood cells (WBCs). The aim was to investigate the altered counts and mitochondrial mass (MM) of WBCs by two novel indicators of mitochondrial mass, MM and percentage of low mitochondrial membrane potential, MMPlow%, due to chronic HBV infection. The counts of lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes in the HBV infection group were in decline, especially for lymphocyte (p = 0.034) and monocyte counts (p = 0.003). The degraded MM (p = 0.003) and MMPlow% (p = 0.002) of lymphocytes and MM (p = 0.005) of monocytes suggested mitochondrial dysfunction of WBCs. HBV DNA within WBCs showed an extensive effect on mitochondria metabolic potential of lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes indicated by MM; hepatitis B e antigen was associated with instant mitochondrial energy supply indicated by MMPlow% of neutrophils; hepatitis B surface antigen, antiviral therapy by nucleos(t)ide analogues and prolonged infection were also vital factors contributing to WBC alterations. Moreover, degraded neutrophils and monocytes could be used to monitor immune responses reflecting chronic liver fibrosis and inflammatory damage. In conclusion, MM combined with cell counts of WBCs could profoundly reflect WBC alterations for monitoring chronic HBV infection. Moreover, HBV DNA within WBCs may be a vital factor in injuring mitochondria metabolic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo‐Ran Zhou
- Medical Center of Soochow UniversitySuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ya‐Hui Song
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Cheng‐Yu Xu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ying‐Ying Zhang
- Infectious Disease DepartmentThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xiang‐Wei Wu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xi‐Ni Luo
- Medical Center of Soochow UniversitySuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhao
- Medical Center of Soochow UniversitySuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ming‐Ming Liu
- Infectious Disease DepartmentThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jun‐Chi Xu
- The Fifth People's Hospital of SuzhouSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Lin Wang
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zu‐Tao Chen
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Infectious Disease DepartmentThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Qing‐Zhen Han
- Medical Center of Soochow UniversitySuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational MedicineThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake HospitalSuzhouPeople's Republic of China
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40
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Tang J, Li S, Zhou Z, Wang Y, Ni D, Zhou S. MiR-3680-3p is a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer and is involved in regulating the progression of liver cancer. IUBMB Life 2024. [PMID: 38822621 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2856] [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: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that can actively participate in post-transcriptional regulation of genes. A number of studies have shown that miRNAs can serve as important regulators of cancer cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. They can also act as markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of certain cancers. To explore the potential prognosis-related miRNAs in liver cancer patients, to provide theoretical basis for early diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer, as well as to provide a new direction for the targeted therapy of liver cancer. The miRNA expression profiles of liver cancer patients in the the Cancer Genome Atlas database were comprehensively analyzed and various prognostic-related miRNAs of liver cancer were screened out. The data was further subjected to survival analysis, prognostic analysis, gene ontology and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis, microenvironment analysis, and drug sensitivity analysis by R Language version 4.2.0. Finally, the screened miRNAs were further validated by different experiments. Thus, miNRAs involved in liver cancer diagnosis and prognosis were identified. MiRNA-3680-3p was found to be significantly different in 10 different cancers, including liver cancer, and was significantly associated with the microenvironment, survival, and prognosis of liver cancer patients. In addition, drug sensitivity analysis revealed that miRNA-3680-3p can provide a useful reference for drug selection in targeted therapy for liver cancer. MiRNA-3680-3p can serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of liver cancer patients and down-regulation of miRNA-3680-3p could significantly inhibit both the proliferation and migration of liver cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Tang
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Tissue Transplantation, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Song Li
- Department of Hepatobilary Pancreatic Gastrointestinal Surgery, JinHua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Zixiao Zhou
- Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yongqiang Wang
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - DeSheng Ni
- Department of Hepatobilary Pancreatic Gastrointestinal Surgery, JinHua People's Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Shaobo Zhou
- General Surgery, Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Shi ZY, Li CY, Chen RY, Shi JJ, Liu YJ, Lu JF, Yang GJ, Chen J. The emerging role of deubiquitylating enzyme USP21 as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Bioorg Chem 2024; 147:107400. [PMID: 38688196 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107400] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Although certain members of the Ubiquitin-specific peptidases (USPs) have been recognized as promising therapeutic targets for various diseases, research progress regarding USP21 has been relatively sluggish in its early stages. USP21 is a crucial member of the USPs subfamily, involved in diverse cellular processes such as apoptosis, DNA repair, and signal transduction. Research findings from the past decade demonstrate that USP21 mediates the deubiquitination of multiple well-known target proteins associated with critical cellular processes relevant to both disease and homeostasis, particularly in various cancers.This reviewcomprehensively summarizes the structure and biological functions of USP21 with an emphasis on its role in tumorigenesis, and elucidates the advances on the discovery of tens of small-molecule inhibitors targeting USP21, which suggests that targeting USP21 may represent a potential strategy for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Yuan Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Chang-Yun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Ru-Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Jin-Jin Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yan-Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Jian-Fei Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Guan-Jun Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Jiong Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
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Qiu YD, Yan Q, Wang Y, Ye YF, Wang Y, Wang MY, Wang PP, Zhang SY, Wang DL, Yan H, Ruan J, Zhao YJ, Huang LH, Cho N, Wang K, Zheng XH, Liu ZG. Discovery of a selective TRF2 inhibitor FKB04 induced telomere shortening and senescence in liver cancer cells. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1276-1286. [PMID: 38438580 PMCID: PMC11130216 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01243-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere repeat binding factor 2 (TRF2), a critical element of the shelterin complex, plays a vital role in the maintenance of genome integrity. TRF2 overexpression is found in a wide range of malignant cancers, whereas its down-regulation could cause cell death. Despite its potential role, the selectively small-molecule inhibitors of TRF2 and its therapeutic effects on liver cancer remain largely unknown. Our clinical data combined with bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that TRF2 is overexpressed in liver cancer and that high expression is associated with poor prognosis. Flavokavain B derivative FKB04 potently inhibited TRF2 expression in liver cancer cells while having limited effects on the other five shelterin subunits. Moreover, FKB04 treatment induced telomere shortening and increased the amounts of telomere-free ends, leading to the destruction of T-loop structure. Consequently, FKB04 promoted liver cancer cell senescence without modulating apoptosis levels. In corroboration with these findings, FKB04 inhibited tumor cell growth by promoting telomeric TRF2 deficiency-induced telomere shortening in a mouse xenograft tumor model, with no obvious side effects. These results demonstrate that TRF2 is a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer and suggest that FKB04 may be a selective small-molecule inhibitor of TRF2, showing promise in the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-da Qiu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Qi Yan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yi Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yan-Fei Ye
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Meng-Ying Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Pei-Pei Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Shu-Yuan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Da-Long Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hao Yan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Yun-Jie Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Le-Hao Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Namki Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Kun Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Zhi-Guo Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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Chen C, Han P, Qing Y. Metabolic heterogeneity in tumor microenvironment - A novel landmark for immunotherapy. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103579. [PMID: 39004158 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103579] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The surrounding non-cancer cells and tumor cells that make up the tumor microenvironment (TME) have various metabolic rhythms. TME metabolic heterogeneity is influenced by the intricate network of metabolic control within and between cells. DNA, protein, transport, and microbial levels are important regulators of TME metabolic homeostasis. The effectiveness of immunotherapy is also closely correlated with alterations in TME metabolism. The response of a tumor patient to immunotherapy is influenced by a variety of variables, including intracellular metabolic reprogramming, metabolic interaction between cells, ecological changes within and between tumors, and general dietary preferences. Although immunotherapy and targeted therapy have made great strides, their use in the accurate identification and treatment of tumors still has several limitations. The function of TME metabolic heterogeneity in tumor immunotherapy is summarized in this article. It focuses on how metabolic heterogeneity develops and is regulated as a tumor progresses, the precise molecular mechanisms and potential clinical significance of imbalances in intracellular metabolic homeostasis and intercellular metabolic coupling and interaction, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of targeted metabolism used in conjunction with immunotherapy. This offers insightful knowledge and important implications for individualized tumor patient diagnosis and treatment plans in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peng Han
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin 150081, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Yanping Qing
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China.
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44
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Yin X, Chen H, Sun Y, Xiao L, Lu H, Guo W, Yang H, Zhou J, Fan K, Liang W. Prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio change in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with thoracic radiotherapy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11984. [PMID: 38796631 PMCID: PMC11127913 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62662-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In prior investigations, a correlation was established between patient outcomes in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) following thoracic irradiation and parameters, such as pre/post-treatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and NLR change (ΔNLR). However, these parameters could potentially be influenced by radiation-related variables, such as gross tumor volume (GTV). The primary aim of this study was to elucidate the factors impacting post-treatment NLR and ΔNLR and to further assess their prognostic relevance. In this retrospective study, a cohort of 188 LA-NSCLC patients who underwent thoracic radiation between 2012 and 2017 was assessed. The calculation of pre/post-treatment NLR involved the use of absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte counts. ΔNLR was defined as the difference between post- and pre-treatment NLR values. To assess the relationships between various variables and overall survival (OS), local progression-free survival (LPFS), and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), the Kaplan-Meier technique and Cox proportional hazards regression were employed. Additionally, Spearman's rank correlation analysis was carried out to investigate correlations between the variables. The analysis revealed that both post-treatment NLR (r = 0.315, P < 0.001) and ΔNLR (r = 0.156, P = 0.032) were associated with GTV. However, OS, LPFS, and DMFS were not independently correlated with pre/post-treatment NLR. ΔNLR, on the other hand, exhibited independent associations with OS and DMFS (HR = 1.054, P = 0.020, and P = 0.046, respectively). Elevated ΔNLR values were linked to poorer OS (P = 0.023) and DMFS (P = 0.018) in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Furthermore, when stratifying by GTV, a higher ΔNLR remained to be associated with worse OS and DMFS (P = 0.047 and P = 0.035, respectively) in the GTV ≤ 67.41 cm3 group, and in the GTV > 67.41 cm3 group (P = 0.028 and P = 0.042, respectively), highlighting ΔNLR as the sole independent predictive factor for survival and metastasis, irrespective of GTV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Yin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Haijun Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Yunchuan Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China.
| | - Li Xiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Hongling Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Hongjuan Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Jianxi Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Kui Fan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
| | - Wei Liang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei Province, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 31, Huanghe West Road, Cangzhou, 061000, Hebei, China
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45
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Wang K, Zhan HQ, Hu Y, Yuan ZY, Yang JF, Yang DS, Tao LS, Xu T. The role of interleukin-20 in liver disease: Functions, mechanisms and clinical applications. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29853. [PMID: 38699038 PMCID: PMC11064155 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29853] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver disease is a severe public health concern worldwide. There is a close relationship between the liver and cytokines, and liver inflammation from a variety of causes leads to the release and activation of cytokines. The functions of cytokines are complex and variable, and are closely related to their cellular origin, target molecules and mode of action. Interleukin (IL)-20 has been studied as a pro-inflammatory cytokine that is expressed and regulated in some diseases. Furthermore, accumulating evidences has shown that IL-20 is highly expressed in clinical samples from patients with liver disease, promoting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules involved in liver disease progression, and antagonists of IL-20 can effectively inhibit liver injury and produce protective effects. This review highlights the potential of targeting IL-20 in liver diseases, elucidates the potential mechanisms of IL-20 inducing liver injury, and suggests multiple viable strategies to mitigate the pro-inflammatory response to IL-20. Genomic CRISPR/Cas9-based screens may be a feasible way to further explore the signaling pathways and regulation of IL-20 in liver diseases. Nanovector systems targeting IL-20 offer new possibilities for the treatment and prevention of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - He-Qin Zhan
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Zhan-Yuan Yuan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Jun-Fa Yang
- Department of orthopedics, Anhui Children's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Da-Shuai Yang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Liang-Song Tao
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
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He Z, Liu X, Qin S, Yang Q, Na J, Xue Z, Zhong L. Anticancer Mechanism of Astragalus Polysaccharide and Its Application in Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:636. [PMID: 38794206 PMCID: PMC11124422 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) derived from A. membranaceus plays a crucial role in traditional Chinese medicine. These polysaccharides have shown antitumor effects and are considered safe. Thus, they have become increasingly important in cancer immunotherapy. APS can limit the spread of cancer by influencing immune cells, promoting cell death, triggering cancer cell autophagy, and impacting the tumor microenvironment. When used in combination with other therapies, APS can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce toxicity and side effects. APS combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors, relay cellular immunotherapy, and cancer vaccines have broadened the application of cancer immunotherapy and enhanced treatment effectiveness. By summarizing the research on APS in cancer immunotherapy over the past two decades, this review elaborates on the anticancer mechanism of APS and its use in cancer immunotherapy and clinical trials. Considering the multiple roles of APS, this review emphasizes the importance of using APS as an adjunct to cancer immunotherapy and compares other polysaccharides with APS. This discussion provides insights into the specific mechanism of action of APS, reveals the molecular targets of APS for developing effective clinical strategies, and highlights the wide application of APS in clinical cancer therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqing He
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Xiyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Simin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Qun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Jintong Na
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Zhigang Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
| | - Liping Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, National Center for International Research of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-Targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (Z.H.); (X.L.); (S.Q.); (Q.Y.); (J.N.)
- School of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
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Ali FEM, Ibrahim IM, Althagafy HS, Hassanein EHM. Role of immunotherapies and stem cell therapy in the management of liver cancer: A comprehensive review. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112011. [PMID: 38581991 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112011] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer (LC) is the sixth most common disease and the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality. The WHO predicts that more than 1 million deaths will occur from LC by 2030. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common form of primary LC. Today, the management of LC involves multiple disciplines, and multimodal therapy is typically selected on an individual basis, considering the intricate interactions between the patient's overall health, the stage of the tumor, and the degree of underlying liver disease. Currently, the treatment of cancers, including LC, has undergone a paradigm shift in the last ten years because of immuno-oncology. To treat HCC, immune therapy approaches have been developed to enhance or cause the body's natural immune response to specifically target tumor cells. In this context, immune checkpoint pathway inhibitors, engineered cytokines, adoptive cell therapy, immune cells modified with chimeric antigen receptors, and therapeutic cancer vaccines have advanced to clinical trials and offered new hope to cancer patients. The outcomes of these treatments are encouraging. Additionally, treatment using stem cells is a new approach for restoring deteriorated tissues because of their strong differentiation potential and capacity to release cytokines that encourage cell division and the formation of blood vessels. Although there is no proof that stem cell therapy works for many types of cancer, preclinical research on stem cells has shown promise in treating HCC. This review provides a recent update regarding the impact of immunotherapy and stem cells in HCC and promising outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt; Michael Sayegh, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba 77110, Jordan.
| | - Islam M Ibrahim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
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Zhu L, Yu X, Tang X, Hu C, Wu L, Liu Y, Zhou Q. Evolving landscape of treatments targeting the microenvironment of liver metastases in non-small cell lung cancer. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:1019-1032. [PMID: 38251678 PMCID: PMC11062672 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002981] [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: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Liver metastases (LMs) are common in lung cancer. Despite substantial advances in diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate of patients with LM remains low as the immune-suppressive microenvironment of the liver allows tumor cells to evade the immune system. The impact of LMs on the outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with solid tumors has been the main focus of recent translational and clinical research. Growing evidence indicates that the hepatic microenvironment delivers paracrine and autocrine signals from non-parenchymal and parenchymal cells. Overall, these microenvironments create pre- and post-metastatic conditions for the progression of LMs. Herein, we reviewed the epidemiology, physiology, pathology and immunology, of LMs associated with non-small cell lung cancer and the role and potential targets of the liver microenvironment in LM in each phase of metastasis. Additionally, we reviewed the current treatment strategies and challenges that should be overcome in preclinical and clinical investigations. These approaches target liver elements as the basis for future clinical trials, including combinatorial interventions reported to resolve hepatic immune suppression, such as immunotherapy plus chemotherapy, immunotherapy plus radiotherapy, immunotherapy plus anti-angiogenesis therapy, and surgical resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Zhu
- Lung Cancer Center, Lung Cancer Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xianzhe Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Chengdu Second People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xiaojun Tang
- Lung Cancer Center, Lung Cancer Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Chenggong Hu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Core Facility of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yanyang Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- Lung Cancer Center, Lung Cancer Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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Quaranta V, Ballarò C, Giannelli G. Macrophages Orchestrate the Liver Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1772. [PMID: 38730724 PMCID: PMC11083142 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091772] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the most common types, and despite numerous advances, therapeutic options still remain poor for these cancer patients. Tumor development and progression strictly depend on a supportive tumor microenvironment (TME). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant immune cells population within a tumorigenic liver; they sustain cancer cells' growth and invasiveness, and their presence is correlated with a poor prognosis. Furthermore, TAM cross-talk with cells and components of the TME promotes immunosuppression, a desmoplastic response, and angiogenesis. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in understanding TAM heterogeneity and function, with a particular focus on TAM modulation of the TME. We also discuss the potential of targeting macrophage subpopulations and how this is now being exploited in current clinical trials for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Quaranta
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy (G.G.)
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Bi CQ, Kang T, Qian YK, Kang M, Zeng XH, Li LC. Upregulation of LHPP by saRNA inhibited hepatocellular cancer cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299522. [PMID: 38696452 PMCID: PMC11065268 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299522] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer worldwide and no pharmacological treatment is available that can achieve complete remission of HCC. Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) is a recently identified HCC tumor suppressor gene which plays an important role in the development of HCC and its inactivation and reactivation has been shown to result in respectively HCC tumorigenesis and suppression. Small activating RNAs (saRNAs) have been used to achieve targeted activation of therapeutic genes for the restoration of their encoded protein through the RNAa mechanism. Here we designed and validated saRNAs that could activate LHPP expression at both the mRNA and protein levels in HCC cells. Activation of LHPP by its saRNAs led to the suppression of HCC proliferation, migration and the inhibition of Akt phosphorylation. When combined with targeted anticancer drugs (e.g., regorafenib), LHPP saRNA exhibited synergistic effect in inhibiting in vitro HCC proliferation and in vivo antitumor growth in a xenograft HCC model. Findings from this study provides further evidence for a tumor suppressor role of LHPP and potential therapeutic value of restoring the expression of LHPP by saRNA for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Qian Bi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Kang
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Kang Qian
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Moorim Kang
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu-Hui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Long-Cheng Li
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Ractigen Therapeutics, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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