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Peddio A, Pietroluongo E, Lamia MR, Luciano A, Caltavituro A, Buonaiuto R, Pecoraro G, De Placido P, Palmieri G, Bianco R, Giuliano M, Servetto A. DLL3 as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target in neuroendocrine neoplasms: A narrative review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 204:104524. [PMID: 39326646 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, due to their heterogeneity and limited treatment options. Conventional imaging techniques and therapeutic strategies may become unreliable during follow-up, due to the tendency of these neoplasms to dedifferentiate over time. Therefore, novel diagnostic and therapeutic options are required for the management of NEN patients. Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3), an inhibitory ligand of Notch receptor, has emerged as a potential target for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in NENs, since overexpression of DLL3 has been associated with tumor progression, poor prognosis and dedifferentiation in several NENs. This narrative review examines the current evidence about DLL3, its structure, function and association with tumorigenesis in NENs. Ongoing studies exploring the role of DLL3 as an emerging diagnostic marker are reviewed. Promising therapeutic options, such as antibody-conjugated drugs, CAR-T cells and radioimmunoconjugates, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarita Peddio
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Pietroluongo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Lamia
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angelo Luciano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Aldo Caltavituro
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Buonaiuto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pecoraro
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro De Placido
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giovannella Palmieri
- Rare Tumors Coordinating Center of Campania Region (CRCTR), University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Bianco
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Giuliano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Servetto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
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Yan W, Rao D, Fan F, Liang H, Zhang Z, Dong H. Hepatitis B virus X protein and TGF-β: partners in the carcinogenic journey of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1407434. [PMID: 38962270 PMCID: PMC11220127 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1407434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B infection is substantially associated with the development of liver cancer globally, with the prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases exceeding 50%. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) encodes the Hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein, a pleiotropic regulatory protein necessary for the transcription of the HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) microchromosome. In previous studies, HBV-associated HCC was revealed to be affected by HBx in multiple signaling pathways, resulting in genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. In addition, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has dichotomous potentials at various phases of malignancy as it is a crucial signaling pathway that regulates multiple cellular and physiological processes. In early HCC, TGF-β has a significant antitumor effect, whereas in advanced HCC, it promotes malignant progression. TGF-β interacts with the HBx protein in HCC, regulating the pathogenesis of HCC. This review summarizes the respective and combined functions of HBx and TGB-β in HCC occurrence and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Feimu Fan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission (NHC), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunyi Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hanhua Dong
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Zhang Y, Shang L, Han J, Shen X, Liu H, Yang J, Shi H. Biological and immunological significance of DLL3 expression in different tumor tissues: a pan-cancer analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:3427-3441. [PMID: 37179118 PMCID: PMC10449286 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204672] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the biological and immunological significance of DLL3 expression in different tumor tissues and provide insight into the role of DLL3 in tumor immunotherapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS RNA expression and clinical data of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) were acquired, and we employed couple of bioinformatics methods to investigate the potential biological and immunological role DLL3, including pan-cancer expression, survival analysis, GSVA and it's correlation with immune infiltration scores, tumor mutation burden, tumor microsatellite instability. RESULTS The findings indicate that DLL3 is expressed in the majority of tumors but is only weakly prevalent in HNSC. In 18 different types of cancers, DLL3 expression was linked to TMB and MSI, whereas in KIRC, LIHC, and PAAD, DLL3 expression and TME were correlated. Additionally, DLL3 gene expression linked positively with M0 and M2 macrophage infiltration levels but negatively with the infiltration of most immune cells. And connection with DLL3 expression varied depending on the kind of T cell. Finally, the GSVA data suggested that DLL3 expression is often unfavorably correlated with most pathways. CONCLUSIONS DLL3 can be used as a stand-alone prognostic factor for many tumor types, and that the level of its expression will have a different prognostic impact for various tumor types. DLL3 expression across numerous cancer types was related to TMB, MSI, and immune cell infiltration. The role of DLL3 in carcinogenesis may serve as a guide for the creation of future immunotherapies that are more individualized and precise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Lifeng Shang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Junwei Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Xin Shen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Haiwang Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
| | - Hai Shi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xi’an Daxing Hospital, Xi’an 710000, P.R. China
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Yang L, Wang G, Shi H, Jia S, Ruan J, Cui R, Ge S. Methylation-driven gene DLL3 is a potential prognostic biomarker in ocular melanoma correlating with metastasis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:964902. [PMID: 36338696 PMCID: PMC9630341 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.964902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ocular melanoma is an aggressive malignancy with a high rate of metastasis and poor prognosis. Increasing evidence indicated that DNA methylation plays an important role in the occurrence and development of ocular melanoma. Hence, exploring new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers at the genetic level may be beneficial to the prognosis of patients with ocular melanoma. Methods We collected DNA methylation and gene expression profiles of human UM (uveal melanoma) and CM (conjunctival melanoma) samples from various datasets. We conducted differential methylation and expression analyses to screen the potential biomarkers. Correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationships between the expression level of DLL3 (delta-like protein 3) and the methylation level of its corresponding CpGs. We explored the prognostic and diagnostic value of DLL3 in UM and CM. Functional annotation and GSEA (gene set enrichment analysis) were applied to get insight into the possible biological roles of DLL3. A cohort of 60 ocular melanoma patients as well as UM and CM cell lines were used to validate our findings in bioinformatic analyses. Results We found that DLL3 was a methylation-driven gene correlating with UM metastasis. The CpGs of DLL3 are mainly located in the gene body and their methylation level positively correlated to DLL3 expression. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that DLL3 was an independent protective factor for UM patients. High DLL3 expression significantly prolonged the overall survival and disease-free survival of UM patients. DLL3 also showed a promising power to distinguish CM from normal tissues. Functional annotation exhibited that DLL3 may suppress UM progression through modulating immune activities and down-regulating various signaling pathways. External datasets, biospecimens, and cell lines further validated the aberrant expression and prognostic role of DLL3 in ocular melanoma. Conclusion Methylation-driven gene DLL3 could serve as a new potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in ocular melanoma. Our findings may contribute to improving the clinical outcomes of patients with UM or CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaoming Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanhan Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shichong Jia
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Ruan, ; Ran Cui, ; Shengfang Ge,
| | - Ran Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Ruan, ; Ran Cui, ; Shengfang Ge,
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Ruan, ; Ran Cui, ; Shengfang Ge,
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Yang L, Zou T, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Wu X, Li M, Du F, Chen Y, Xiao Z, Shen J. Hepatitis B virus X protein mediated epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:741-754. [PMID: 35648301 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10351-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide health problem. Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx), a pleiotropic regulatory protein encoded by HBV, is necessary for the transcription of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) minichromosomes, and affects the epigenetic regulation of host cells. The epigenetic reprogramming of HBx on host cell genome is strongly involved in HBV-related HCC carcinogenesis. Here, we review the latest findings of the epigenetic regulation induced by HBx protein in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), including DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA expression. The influence of HBx on the epigenetic regulation of cccDNA is also summarized. In addition, preliminary studies of targeted drugs for epigenetic changes induced by HBx are also discussed. The exploration of epigenetic markers as potential targets will help to develop new prevention and/or treatment methods for HBx-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiong Yang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Tao Zou
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China.
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China.
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6
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Tsuge M. The association between hepatocarcinogenesis and intracellular alterations due to hepatitis B virus infection. Liver Int 2021; 41:2836-2848. [PMID: 34559952 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide health problem leading to severe liver dysfunction, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although current antiviral therapies for chronic HBV infection have been improved and can lead to a strong suppression of viral replication, it is difficult to completely eliminate the virus with these therapies once chronic HBV infection is established in the host. Furthermore, chronic HBV infection alters intracellular metabolism and signalling pathways, resulting in the activation of carcinogenesis in the liver. HBV produces four viral proteins: hepatitis B surface-, hepatitis B core-, hepatitis B x protein, and polymerase; each plays an important role in HBV replication and the intracellular signalling pathways associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. In vitro and in vivo experimental models for analyzing HBV infection and replication have been established, and gene expression analyses using microarrays or next-generation sequencing have also been developed. Thus, it is possible to clarify the molecular mechanisms for intracellular alterations, such as endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, and epigenetic modifications. In this review, the impact of HBV viral proteins and intracellular alterations in HBV-associated hepatocarcinogenesis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Tsuge
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Tsuge M. Are Humanized Mouse Models Useful for Basic Research of Hepatocarcinogenesis through Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection? Viruses 2021; 13:v13101920. [PMID: 34696350 PMCID: PMC8541657 DOI: 10.3390/v13101920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global health problem that can lead to liver dysfunction, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Current antiviral therapies can control viral replication in patients with chronic HBV infection; however, there is a risk of HCC development. HBV-related proteins may be produced in hepatocytes regardless of antiviral therapies and influence intracellular metabolism and signaling pathways, resulting in liver carcinogenesis. To understand the mechanisms of liver carcinogenesis, the effect of HBV infection in human hepatocytes should be analyzed. HBV infects human hepatocytes through transfer to the sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP). Although the NTCP is expressed on the hepatocyte surface in several animals, including mice, HBV infection is limited to human primates. Due to this species-specific liver tropism, suitable animal models for analyzing HBV replication and developing antivirals have been lacking since the discovery of the virus. Recently, a humanized mouse model carrying human hepatocytes in the liver was developed based on several immunodeficient mice; this is useful for analyzing the HBV life cycle, antiviral effects of existing/novel antivirals, and intracellular signaling pathways under HBV infection. Herein, the usefulness of human hepatocyte chimeric mouse models in the analysis of HBV-associated hepatocarcinogenesis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Tsuge
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Department of Biomedical Science, Research and Development Division, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; ; Tel.: +81-82-257-1510
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
- Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
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Matsuo K, Taniguchi K, Hamamoto H, Inomata Y, Komura K, Tanaka T, Lee SW, Uchiyama K. Delta-like canonical Notch ligand 3 as a potential therapeutic target in malignancies: A brief overview. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:2984-2992. [PMID: 34107132 PMCID: PMC8353941 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Delta‐like canonical Notch ligand 3 (DLL3) is a member of the Delta/Serrate/Lag2 (DSL) Notch receptor ligand family and plays a crucial role in Notch signaling, which influences various cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. DLL3 is expressed throughout the presomitic mesoderm and is localized to the rostral somatic compartments; mutations in DLL3 induce skeletal abnormalities such as spondylocostal dysostosis. Recently, DLL3 has attracted interest as a novel molecular target due to its high expression in neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung. Moreover, a DLL3‐targeting Ab‐drug conjugate, rovalpituzumab tesirine (ROVA‐T), has been developed as a new treatment with proven antitumor activity. However, the development of ROVA‐T was suspended because of shorter overall survival compared to topotecan, the second‐line standard treatment. Thus, several studies on the mechanism and function of DLL3 in several malignancies are underway to find a new strategy for targeting DLL3. In this review, we discuss the roles of DLL3 in various malignancies and the future perspectives of DLL3‐related research, especially as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Matsuo
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Kohei Taniguchi
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan.,Translational Research Program, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hamamoto
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Yosuke Inomata
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Komura
- Translational Research Program, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Tomohito Tanaka
- Translational Research Program, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Sang-Woong Lee
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Uchiyama
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
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9
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Zeisel MB, Guerrieri F, Levrero M. Host Epigenetic Alterations and Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081715. [PMID: 33923385 PMCID: PMC8071488 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary malignancy of the liver and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although much progress has been made in HCC drug development in recent years, treatment options remain limited. The major cause of HCC is chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Despite the existence of a vaccine, more than 250 million individuals are chronically infected by HBV. Current antiviral therapies can repress viral replication but to date there is no cure for chronic hepatitis B. Of note, inhibition of viral replication reduces but does not eliminate the risk of HCC development. HBV contributes to liver carcinogenesis by direct and indirect effects. This review summarizes the current knowledge of HBV-induced host epigenetic alterations and their association with HCC, with an emphasis on the interactions between HBV proteins and the host cell epigenetic machinery leading to modulation of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam B. Zeisel
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
- Correspondence: (M.B.Z.); (M.L.)
| | - Francesca Guerrieri
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Croix Rousse, Service d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, 69004 Lyon, France
- Correspondence: (M.B.Z.); (M.L.)
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10
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Takeuchi Y, Tsuge M, Tsushima K, Suehiro Y, Fujino H, Ono A, Yamauchi M, Makokha GN, Nakahara T, Murakami E, Abe-Chayama H, Kawaoka T, Miki D, Imamura M, Aikata H, Hayes CN, Tateno C, Chayama K. Signal Activation of Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocarcinogenesis by Up-regulation of SUV39h1. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:2061-2070. [PMID: 32514521 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) X (HBx) protein is associated with hepatocellular carcinogenesis via the induction of malignant transformation and mitochondrial dysfunction. However, the association between HBx and histone methyltransferase in carcinogenesis has not been fully clarified. In the current study, we analyzed the association between HBx and the histone methyltransferase suppressor of variegation 3-9 homolog 1 (SUV39h1) using HBV replication models. METHODS We constructed several HBx and SUV39h1 expression plasmids and analyzed the association between HBx and SUV39h1 with respect to HBV replication and hepatocarcinogenesis. RESULTS SUV39h1 up-regulation was observed in HBV-infected humanized mouse livers and clinical HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, indicating that SUV39h1 expression might be regulated by HBV infection. Through in vitro analysis, we determined that the coactivator domain of HBx interacts with the PSET (PostSET) and SET (Su(var)3-9, Enhancer-of-zeste, Trithorax) domains of SUV39h1. The expression levels of 4 genes, activating transcription factor 6, α-fetoprotein, growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible 45a, and dual-specificity phosphatase 1, known to induce carcinogenesis via HBx expression, were up-regulated by HBx and further up-regulated in the presence of both HBx and SUV39h1. Furthermore, histone methyltransferase activity, the main function of SUV39h1, was enhanced in the presence of HBx. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that SUV39h1 and HBx enhance each other's activity, leading to HBx-mediated hepatocarcinogenesis. We propose that regulation of this interaction could help suppress development of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasue Takeuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masataka Tsuge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ken Tsushima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yosuke Suehiro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hatsue Fujino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ono
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masami Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Grace Naswa Makokha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takashi Nakahara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Eisuke Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiromi Abe-Chayama
- Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Center for Medical Specialist Graduate Education and Research, Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Kawaoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Daiki Miki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Michio Imamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Aikata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - C Nelson Hayes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Chise Tateno
- Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,PhoenixBio, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Research Center for Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Laboratory for Digestive Diseases, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
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11
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Kabashima A, Shimada S, Shimokawa M, Akiyama Y, Tanabe M, Tanaka S. Molecular and immunological paradigms of hepatocellular carcinoma: Special reference to therapeutic approaches. JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SCIENCES 2021; 28:62-75. [PMID: 33259135 DOI: 10.1002/jhbp.874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a multistep process with a complex interaction of various genetic backgrounds and the tumor microenvironment. In addition to the development of rational approaches to epidemiologic research, early detection, and diagnosis, considerable progress has been made in systemic treatment with molecular-targeted agents for patients with advanced HCC. Moreover, encouraging reports of recent clinical trials of combination therapy with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has raised high hopes. Each HCC is the result of a unique combination of somatic alterations, including genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and metabolic events, leading to conclusive tumoral heterogeneity. Recent advances in comprehensive genetic analysis have accelerated molecular classification and defined subtypes with specific characteristics, including immune-associated molecular profiles reflecting the immune reactivity in the tumor. In considering the development of therapeutic strategies in combination with immunotherapy, proper interpretation of molecular pathological characterization could lead to effective therapeutic deployment and enable individualization of the management of HCC. Here, we review distinctive molecular alterations in the subtype classification of HCC, current therapies, and representative clinical trials with alternative immune-combination approaches from a molecular pathological point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayano Kabashima
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shu Shimada
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shimokawa
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Akiyama
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Tanabe
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Xiu MX, Liu YM, Kuang BH. The Role of DLLs in Cancer: A Novel Therapeutic Target. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:3881-3901. [PMID: 32440154 PMCID: PMC7213894 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s244860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Delta-like ligands (DLLs) control Notch signaling. DLL1, DLL3 and DLL4 are frequently deregulated in cancer and influence tumor growth, the tumor vasculature and tumor immunity, which play different roles in cancer progression. DLLs have attracted intense research interest as anti-cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the role of DLLs in cancer and summarize the emerging DLL-relevant targeting methods to aid future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Xi Xiu
- Medical School of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Meng Liu
- Medical School of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo-Hai Kuang
- Medical School of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
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13
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Zhang X, Wang L, Yan Y. Identification of potential key genes and pathways in hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma by bioinformatics analyses. Oncol Lett 2020; 19:3477-3486. [PMID: 32269621 PMCID: PMC7138035 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The precise molecular mechanisms by which HBV contributes to HCC development are not fully understood. The key genes and pathways involved in the transformation of nontumor hepatic tissues into HCC tissues in patients with HBV infection are essential to guide the treatment of HBV-associated HCC. Five datasets were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to form a large cohort. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between HCC tissues and nontumor hepatic tissues from HBV-infected patients using the ‘limma’ package. The top 50 upregulated and top 50 downregulated DEGs in HCC vs. nontumor tissues were demonstrated in subsets by heat maps. Based on the DEGs, Gene Ontology functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways enrichment analyses were performed. Several key pathways of the up- and downregulated DEGs were identified and presented by protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. A total of 1,934 DEGs were identified. The upregulated DEGs were primarily associated with the ‘cell cycle’. Among the DEGs enriched in the ‘cell cycle’ pathway, 6 genes had a log2-fold change >2: SFN, BUB1B, TTK, CCNB1, CDK1 and CDC20. The downregulated DEGs were primarily associated with the metabolic pathways, such as ‘carbon metabolism’, ‘glycine, serine and threonine metabolism’, ‘tryptophan metabolism’, ‘retinol metabolism’ and ‘alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism’. The DEGs in the ‘cell cycle’ and ‘metabolic pathways’ were presented by the PPI networks respectively. Overall, the present study provides new insights into the specific etiology of HCC and molecular mechanisms for the transformation of nontumor hepatic tissues into HCC tissues in patients with a history of HBV infection and several potential therapeutic targets for targeted therapy in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Lingchen Wang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China.,Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yehong Yan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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14
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Matsuo K, Taniguchi K, Hamamoto H, Ito Y, Futaki S, Inomata Y, Shima T, Asakuma M, Lee SW, Tanaka K, Okuda J, Kondo Y, Uchiyama K. Delta-like 3 localizes to neuroendocrine cells and plays a pivotal role in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine malignancy. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:3122-3131. [PMID: 31369178 PMCID: PMC6778628 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Delta‐like 3 (DLL3) is a member of the Delta/Serrate/Lag2 (DSL) group of Notch receptor ligands. Five DSL ligands are known in mammals, among which DLL3 has a unique structure. In the last few years, DLL3 has attracted attention as a novel molecular targeting gene in neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung due to its high expression. However, the expression pattern and functions of DLL3 in the gastrointestinal tract and gastrointestinal neuroendocrine carcinoma remain unclear. In this study, we examined the expression and role of DLL3 in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine carcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining of the human normal gastrointestinal tract revealed that DLL3 localized in neuroendocrine cells. DLL3 showed intense staining in chromogranin A‐positive gastric cancer specimens. Real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR and western blotting analyses showed considerable upregulation of DLL3 in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine carcinoma cell lines. Immuno‐electron microscopy demonstrated abundant expression of DLL3 in neurosecretory granules in these cells. Furthermore, gene silencing of DLL3 caused significant growth inhibition through the induction of intrinsic apoptosis. Our findings suggest that DLL3 is expressed in neuroendocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract and that it has a pivotal role in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine carcinoma cells. Based on these findings, further investigations are required to achieve a breakthrough in developing therapeutic strategies for gastrointestinal neuroendocrine carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Matsuo
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Kohei Taniguchi
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan.,Translational Research Program, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hamamoto
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Yuko Ito
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Sugiko Futaki
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Yosuke Inomata
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Takafumi Shima
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Asakuma
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Sang-Woong Lee
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Keitaro Tanaka
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Junji Okuda
- Osaka Medical College Hospital Cancer Center, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Yoichi Kondo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Uchiyama
- Department of General and Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
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