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Shi R, Yu R, Lian F, Zheng Y, Feng S, Li C, Zheng X. Targeting HSP47 for cancer treatment. Anticancer Drugs 2024; 35:623-637. [PMID: 38718070 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47) serves as an endoplasmic reticulum residing collagen-specific chaperone and plays an important role in collagen biosynthesis and structural assembly. HSP47 is encoded by the SERPINH1 gene, which is located on chromosome 11q13.5, one of the most frequently amplified regions in human cancers. The expression of HSP47 is regulated by multiple cellular factors, including cytokines, transcription factors, microRNAs, and circular RNAs. HSP47 is frequently upregulated in a variety of cancers and plays an important role in tumor progression. HSP47 promotes tumor stemness, angiogenesis, growth, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and metastatic capacity. HSP47 also regulates the efficacy of tumor therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Inhibition of HSP47 expression has antitumor effects, suggesting that targeting HSP47 is a feasible strategy for cancer treatment. In this review, we highlight the function and expression of regulatory mechanisms of HSP47 in cancer progression and point out the potential development of therapeutic strategies in targeting HSP47 in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Run Shi
- School of Medicine, Pingdingshan University, Pingdingshan, China
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2
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Takahashi Y, Morimura R, Tsukamoto K, Gomi S, Yamada A, Mizukami M, Naito Y, Irie S, Nagayama S, Shinozaki E, Yamaguchi K, Fujita N, Kitano S, Katayama R, Matsusaki M. In vitro throughput screening of anticancer drugs using patient-derived cell lines cultured on vascularized three-dimensional stromal tissues. Acta Biomater 2024; 183:111-129. [PMID: 38801868 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.05.037] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The development of high-throughput anticancer drug screening methods using patient-derived cancer cell (PDC) lines that maintain their original characteristics in an in vitro three-dimensional (3D) culture system poses a significant challenge to achieving personalized cancer medicine. Because stromal tissue plays a critical role in the composition and maintenance of the cancer microenvironment, in vitro 3D-culture using reconstructed stromal tissues has attracted considerable attention. Here, a simple and unique in vitro 3D-culture method using heparin and collagen together with fibroblasts and endothelial cells to fabricate vascularized 3D-stromal tissues for in vitro culture of PDCs is reported. Whereas co-treatment with bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor, and 5-fluorouracil significantly reduced the survival rate of 3D-cultured PDCs to 30%, separate addition of each drug did not induce comparable strong cytotoxicity, suggesting the possibility of evaluating the combined effect of anticancer drugs and angiogenesis inhibitors. Surprisingly, drug evaluation using eight PDC lines with the 3D-culture method resulted in a drug efficacy concordance rate of 75% with clinical outcomes. The model is expected to be applicable to in vitro throughput drug screening for the development of personalized cancer medicine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: To replicate the cancer microenvironment, we constructed a cancer-stromal tissue model in which cancer cells are placed above and inside stromal tissue with vascular network structures derived from vascular endothelial cells in fibroblast tissue using CAViTs method. Using this method, we were able to reproduce the invasion and metastasis processes of cancer cells observed in vivo. Using patient-derived cancer cells, we assessed the possibility of evaluating the combined effect with an angiogenesis inhibitor. Further, primary cancer cells also grew on the stromal tissues with the normal medium. These data suggest that the model may be useful for new in vitro drug screening and personalized cancer medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Takahashi
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan; Division of Clinical Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Rii Morimura
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan; Division of Clinical Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Kei Tsukamoto
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan
| | - Sayaka Gomi
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan
| | - Asuka Yamada
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan; Joint Research Laboratory (TOPPAN) for Advanced Cell Regulatory Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Miki Mizukami
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Naito
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan; Joint Research Laboratory (TOPPAN) for Advanced Cell Regulatory Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shinji Irie
- Joint Research Laboratory (TOPPAN) for Advanced Cell Regulatory Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagayama
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Gastroenterological Cancer Center, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan; Department of Surgery, Uji Tokushukai Medical Center, Kyoto 611-0041, Japan
| | - Eiji Shinozaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Chemotherapy, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Kensei Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Chemotherapy, The Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Naoya Fujita
- Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Shiro Kitano
- Business Development Division, Technical Research Institute, TOPPAN Holdings Inc., Saitama 345-8508, Japan; Joint Research Laboratory (TOPPAN) for Advanced Cell Regulatory Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Ryohei Katayama
- Division of Experimental Chemotherapy, Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan.
| | - Michiya Matsusaki
- Joint Research Laboratory (TOPPAN) for Advanced Cell Regulatory Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Applied Chemistry Graduate School of Engineering Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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Oncu S, Becit-Kizilkaya M, Sen S, Ugur-Kaplan AB, Cetin M, Celik S. Daidzein nanosuspension in combination with cisplatin to enhance therapeutic efficacy against A549 non-small lung cancer cells: an in vitro evaluation. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4871-4881. [PMID: 38159158 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02924-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related mortality, chemo-resistance, and toxicity limit treatment. The focus is on innovative combined phytotherapy to improve treatment outcomes. Our aim was to investigate the potential effects of daidzein nanosuspension (DZ-NS) and its combination with cisplatin (CIS) on A549 non-small lung cancer cells. Cytotoxicity was investigated using MTT and Chou-Talalay methods. Oxidative, apoptotic, and inflammatory markers were analyzed by ELISA and qRT-PCR. The IC50 value for DZ-NS was 25.23 µM for 24 h and was lower than pure DZ (IC50 = 835 µM for pure DZ). DZ-NS (at IC50x2 and IC50 values) showed synergistic cytotoxicity with CIS. The cells treated with DZ-NS had low TOS and OSI levels. However, DZ-NS failed to regulate Cas3 and TGF-β1 activation in A549 cells. MMP-9 gene expression was significantly suppressed in DZ-NS-treated cells, especially in combination therapy. DZ represents a potential combination option for the treatment of lung cancer, and its poor toxicokinetic properties limit its clinical use. To overcome these limitations, the effects of the nanosuspension formulation were tested. DZ-NS showed a cytotoxic effect on A549 cells and optimized the therapeutic effect of CIS. This in vitro synergistic effect was mediated by suppression of MMP-9 and not by oxidative stress or Cas3-activated apoptosis. This study provides the basis for an in vivo and clinical trial of DZ-NS with concurrent chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Oncu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Merve Becit-Kizilkaya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, 03030, Turkey.
| | - Serkan Sen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Ataturk Vocational School of Health Services, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Afife Busra Ugur-Kaplan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Meltem Cetin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Sefa Celik
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
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Wang Z, Lei Z, Wang Y, Wang S, Wang JP, Jin E, Liu X, Sun R, Zhang HT. Bone-metastatic lung adenocarcinoma cells bearing CD74-ROS1 fusion interact with macrophages to promote their dissemination. Oncogene 2024; 43:2215-2227. [PMID: 38802647 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03072-7] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 40% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) often develop bone metastases during the course of their disease. However, scarcely any in vivo model of LUAD bone metastasis has been established, leading to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying LUAD bone metastasis. Here, we established a multiorgan metastasis model via the left ventricular injection of luciferase-labeled LUAD cells into nude mice and then screened out lung metastasis (LuM) and bone metastasis (BoM) cell subpopulations. BoM cells exhibited greater stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plasticity than LuM cells and initially colonized the bone and subsequently disseminated to distant organs after being reinjected into mice. Moreover, a CD74-ROS1 fusion mutation (C6; R34) was detected in BoM cells but not in LuM cells. Mechanistically, BoM cells bearing the CD74-ROS1 fusion highly secrete the C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) protein by activating STAT3 signaling, recruiting macrophages in tumor microenvironment and strongly inducing M2 polarization of macrophages. BoM cell-activated macrophages produce a high level of TGF-β1, thereby facilitating EMT and invasion of LUAD cells via TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signaling. Targeting the CD74-ROS1/CCL5 axis with Crizotinib (a ROS1 inhibitor) and Maraviroc (a CCL5 receptor inhibitor) in vivo strongly impeded bone metastasis and secondary metastasis of BoM cells. Our findings reveal the critical role of the CD74-ROS1/STAT3/CCL5 axis in the interaction between LUAD bone metastasis cells and macrophages for controlling LUAD cell dissemination, highlighting the significance of the bone microenvironment in LUAD bone metastasis and multiorgan secondary metastasis, and suggesting that targeting CD74-ROS1 and CCL5 is a promising therapeutic strategy for LUAD bone metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhe Lei
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shengjie Wang
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Basic Medicine, Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, 222000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jia-Ping Wang
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Donghai County People's Hospital, Lianyungang, 222000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ersuo Jin
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Runfeng Sun
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Donghai County People's Hospital, Lianyungang, 222000, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Hong-Tao Zhang
- Soochow University Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Genetics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Molecular Medicine between Soochow University and Donghai County People's Hospital, Clinical Medicine Research Institute of Soochow University and Suzhou BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Suzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Genetics, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Ha CP, Hua TNM, Vo VTA, Om J, Han S, Cha SK, Park KS, Jeong Y. Humanin activates integrin αV-TGFβ axis and leads to glioblastoma progression. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:464. [PMID: 38942749 PMCID: PMC11213926 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06790-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
The role of mitochondria peptides in the spreading of glioblastoma remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying intracranial glioblastoma progression. Our findings demonstrate that the mitochondria-derived peptide, humanin, plays a significant role in enhancing glioblastoma progression through the intratumoral activation of the integrin alpha V (ITGAV)-TGF beta (TGFβ) signaling axis. In glioblastoma tissues, humanin showed a significant upregulation in the tumor area compared to the corresponding normal region. Utilizing multiple in vitro pharmacological and genetic approaches, we observed that humanin activates the ITGAV pathway, leading to cellular attachment and filopodia formation. This process aids the subsequent migration and invasion of attached glioblastoma cells through intracellular TGFβR signaling activation. In addition, our in vivo orthotopic glioblastoma model provides further support for the pro-tumoral function of humanin. We observed a correlation between poor survival and aggressive invasiveness in the humanin-treated group, with noticeable tumor protrusions and induced angiogenesis compared to the control. Intriguingly, the in vivo effect of humanin on glioblastoma was significantly reduced by the treatment of TGFBR1 inhibitor. To strengthen these findings, public database analysis revealed a significant association between genes in the ITGAV-TGFβR axis and poor prognosis in glioblastoma patients. These results collectively highlight humanin as a pro-tumoral factor, making it a promising biological target for treating glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuong P Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Tuyen N M Hua
- Department of Biochemistry, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pharmacology - Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu T A Vo
- Department of Biochemistry, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyeon Om
- Department of Biochemistry, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangwon Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Kuy Cha
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physiology, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Institutes of Lifestyle Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
- Mitochondrial Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Sang Park
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Physiology, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Institutes of Lifestyle Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Mitochondrial Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yangsik Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Mitohormesis Research Center, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Institutes of Lifestyle Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
- Mitochondrial Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426, Republic of Korea.
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Giarratana AO, Prendergast CM, Salvatore MM, Capaccione KM. TGF-β signaling: critical nexus of fibrogenesis and cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:594. [PMID: 38926762 PMCID: PMC11201862 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05411-4] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is a vital regulator of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix production. It functions through canonical SMAD-mediated processes and noncanonical pathways involving MAPK cascades, PI3K/AKT, Rho-like GTPases, and NF-κB signaling. This intricate signaling system is finely tuned by interactions between canonical and noncanonical pathways and plays key roles in both physiologic and pathologic conditions including tissue homeostasis, fibrosis, and cancer progression. TGF-β signaling is known to have paradoxical actions. Under normal physiologic conditions, TGF-β signaling promotes cell quiescence and apoptosis, acting as a tumor suppressor. In contrast, in pathological states such as inflammation and cancer, it triggers processes that facilitate cancer progression and tissue remodeling, thus promoting tumor development and fibrosis. Here, we detail the role that TGF-β plays in cancer and fibrosis and highlight the potential for future theranostics targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O Giarratana
- Northwell Health - Peconic Bay Medical Center, 1 Heroes Way, Riverhead, NY, 11901, USA.
| | | | - Mary M Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 11032, USA
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Ramar V, Guo S, Hudson B, Khedri A, Guo AA, Li J, Liu M. Interaction of NF-κB and FOSL1 drives glioma stemness. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:255. [PMID: 38856747 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05293-1] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and malignant primary brain tumor; GBM's inevitable recurrence suggests that glioblastoma stem cells (GSC) allow these tumors to persist. Our previous work showed that FOSL1, transactivated by the STAT3 gene, functions as a tumorigenic gene in glioma pathogenesis and acts as a diagnostic marker and potential drug target in glioma patients. Accumulating evidence shows that STAT3 and NF-κB cooperate to promote the development and progression of various cancers. The link between STAT3 and NF-κB suggests that NF-κB can also transcriptionally regulate FOSL1 and contribute to gliomagenesis. To investigate downstream molecules of FOSL1, we analyzed the transcriptome after overexpressing FOSL1 in a PDX-L14 line characterized by deficient FOSL1 expression. We then conducted immunohistochemical staining for FOSL1 and NF-κB p65 using rabbit polyclonal anti-FOSL1 and NF-κB p65 in glioma tissue microarrays (TMA) derived from 141 glioma patients and 15 healthy individuals. Next, mutants of the human FOSL1 promoter, featuring mutations in essential binding sites for NF-κB were generated using a Q5 site-directed mutagenesis kit. Subsequently, we examined luciferase activity in glioma cells and compared it to the wild-type FOSL1 promoter. Then, we explored the mutual regulation between NF-κB signaling and FOSL1 by modulating the expression of NF-κB or FOSL1. Subsequently, we assessed the activity of FOSL1 and NF-κB. To understand the role of FOSL1 in cell growth and stemness, we conducted a CCK-8 assay and cell cycle analysis, assessing apoptosis and GSC markers, ALDH1, and CD133 under varying FOSL1 expression conditions. Transcriptome analyses of downstream molecules of FOSL1 show that NF-κB signaling pathway is regulated by FOSL1. NF-κB p65 protein expression correlates to the expression of FOSL1 in glioma patients, and both are associated with glioma grades. NF-κB is a crucial transcription factor activating the FOSL1 promoter in glioma cells. Mutual regulation between NF-κB and FOSL1 contributes to glioma tumorigenesis and stemness through promoting G1/S transition and inhibiting apoptosis. Therefore, the FOSL1 molecular pathway is functionally connected to NF-κB activation, enhances stemness, and is indicative that FOSL1 may potentially be a novel GBM drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanajothi Ramar
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA
| | - Shanchun Guo
- Department of Chemistry, Xavier University, 1 Drexel Dr, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Breanna Hudson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA
| | - Azam Khedri
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA
| | - Alyssa A Guo
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 475 Vine Street, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Jason Li
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, 475 Vine Street, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Mingli Liu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA.
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8
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Chen Y, Cui R, Xiong D, Zhao Y, Pang J, Gul S, Qi Q, Tang Y, Zhou X, Tang W. Cervical cancer subtype identification and model building based on lipid metabolism and post-infection microenvironment immune landscape. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30746. [PMID: 38765128 PMCID: PMC11098854 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30746] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background As the second most common gynecological cancer, cervical cancer (CC) seriously threatens women's health. The poor prognosis of CC is closely related to the post-infection microenvironment (PIM). This study investigated how lipid metabolism-related genes (LMRGs) affect CC PIM and their role in diagnosing CC. Methods We analyzed lipid metabolism scores in the CC single-cell landscape by AUCell. The differentiation trajectory of epithelial cells to cancer cells was revealed using LMRGs and Monocle2. Consensus clustering was used to identify novel subgroups using the LMRGs. Multiple immune assessment methods were used to evaluate the immune landscape of the subgroups. Prognostic genes were determined by the LASSO and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Finally, we perform molecular docking of prognostic genes to explore potential therapeutic agents. Results We revealed the differentiation trajectory of epithelial cells to cancer cells in CC by LMRGs. The higher LMRGs expression cluster had higher survival rates and immune infiltration expression. Functional enrichment showed that two clusters were mainly involved in immune response regulation. A novel LMR signature (LMR.sig) was constructed to predict clinical outcomes in CC. The expression of prognostic genes was correlated with the PIM immune landscape. Small molecular compounds with the best binding effect to prognostic genes were obtained by molecular docking, which may be used as new targeted therapeutic drugs. Conclusion We found that the subtype with better prognosis could regulate the expression of some critical genes through more frequent lipid metabolic reprogramming, thus affecting the maturation and migration of dendritic cells (DCs) and the expression of M1 macrophages, reshaping the immunosuppressive environment of PIM in CC patients. LMRGs are closely related to the PIM immune landscape and can accurately predict tumor prognosis. These results further our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of LMRGs in CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhi Chen
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Rongjie Cui
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Dun Xiong
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Pu'er People's Hospital, Puer, Yunnan, PR China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Pu'er People's Hospital, Puer, Yunnan, PR China
| | - Jianyu Pang
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Samina Gul
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Qi Qi
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Yuheng Tang
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
| | - Xuhong Zhou
- Office of Science and Technology, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, PR China
| | - Wenru Tang
- Medicine School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, PR China
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Liao J, Chen R, Lin B, Deng R, Liang Y, Zeng J, Ma S, Qiu X. Cross-Talk between the TGF-β and Cell Adhesion Signaling Pathways in Cancer. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1307-1320. [PMID: 38818471 PMCID: PMC11134594 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.96274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is strongly associated with the cell adhesion signaling pathway in cell differentiation, migration, etc. Mechanistically, TGF-β is secreted in an inactive form and localizes to the extracellular matrix (ECM) via the latent TGF-β binding protein (LTBP). However, it is the release of mature TGF-β that is essential for the activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway. This progress requires specific integrins (one of the main groups of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)) to recognize and activate the dormant TGF-β. In addition, TGF-β regulates cell adhesion ability through modulating CAMs expression. The aberrant activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway, caused by abnormal expression of key regulatory molecules (such as Smad proteins, certain transcription factors, and non-coding RNAs), promotes tumor invasive and metastasis ability via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during the late stages of tumorigenesis. In this paper, we summarize the crosstalk between TGF-β and cell adhesion signaling pathway in cancer and its underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Rentang Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Bihua Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Runhua Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Yanfang Liang
- Department of Pathology, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523905, China
| | - Jincheng Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Sha Ma
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Xianxiu Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
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10
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Cordani M, Dando I, Ambrosini G, González-Menéndez P. Signaling, cancer cell plasticity, and intratumor heterogeneity. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:255. [PMID: 38702718 PMCID: PMC11067149 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01643-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer's complexity is in part due to the presence of intratumor heterogeneity and the dynamic nature of cancer cell plasticity, which create substantial obstacles in effective cancer management. Variability within a tumor arises from the existence of diverse populations of cancer cells, impacting the progression, spread, and resistance to treatments. At the core of this variability is the concept of cellular plasticity - the intrinsic ability of cancer cells to alter their molecular and cellular identity in reaction to environmental and genetic changes. This adaptability is a cornerstone of cancer's persistence and progression, making it a formidable target for treatments. Emerging studies have emphasized the critical role of such plasticity in fostering tumor diversity, which in turn influences the course of the disease and the effectiveness of therapeutic strategies. The transformative nature of cancer involves a network of signal transduction pathways, notably those that drive the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metabolic remodeling, shaping the evolutionary path of cancer cells. Despite advancements, our understanding of the precise molecular machinations and signaling networks driving these changes is still evolving, underscoring the necessity for further research. This editorial presents a series entitled "Signaling Cancer Cell Plasticity and Intratumor Heterogeneity" in Cell Communication and Signaling, dedicated to unraveling these complex processes and proposing new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cordani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, 28040, Spain.
| | - Ilaria Dando
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy.
| | - Giulia Ambrosini
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy.
| | - Pedro González-Menéndez
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, School of Medicine, Julián Claveria 6, Oviedo, 33006, Spain.
- Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, 33006, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Oviedo, 33011, Spain.
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11
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dos Santos GA, Magdaleno GDV, de Magalhães JP. Evidence of a pan-tissue decline in stemness during human aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:5796-5810. [PMID: 38604248 PMCID: PMC11042951 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Despite their biological importance, the role of stem cells in human aging remains to be elucidated. In this work, we applied a machine learning methodology to GTEx transcriptome data and assigned stemness scores to 17,382 healthy samples from 30 human tissues aged between 20 and 79 years. We found that ~60% of the studied tissues exhibit a significant negative correlation between the subject's age and stemness score. The only significant exception was the uterus, where we observed an increased stemness with age. Moreover, we observed that stemness is positively correlated with cell proliferation and negatively correlated with cellular senescence. Finally, we also observed a trend that hematopoietic stem cells derived from older individuals might have higher stemness scores. In conclusion, we assigned stemness scores to human samples and show evidence of a pan-tissue loss of stemness during human aging, which adds weight to the idea that stem cell deterioration may contribute to human aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Arantes dos Santos
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation (LIM55), Urology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
- Genomics of Ageing and Rejuvenation Lab, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2WB, United Kingdom
| | | | - João Pedro de Magalhães
- Genomics of Ageing and Rejuvenation Lab, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2WB, United Kingdom
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12
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Canciello A, Domínguez RB, Barboni B, Giordano A, Morrione A. Characterization of KLHL14 anti-oncogenic action in malignant mesothelioma. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27731. [PMID: 38509883 PMCID: PMC10950656 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27731] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a very aggressive neoplasia with a short life expectancy and limited therapeutic options. Thus, the identification of novel molecular targets is a matter of great urgency. Kelch-like (KLHL) proteins play an important role in a number of physiological and pathological cell-regulatory processes. Among this family, the function of KLHL14 is still very poorly characterized. KLHL14 was originally identified as a gene involved in regulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Here, we demonstrate that KLHL14 not only prevents EMT but also plays an anti-oncogenic role in MM. Indeed, KLHL14 depletion enhanced proliferation, motility, invasion and colony formation in MM cells. Importantly, we also demonstrated that KLHL14 mechanism of action is dependent on Transforming Growth Factor β (TGF-β). In fact, TGF-β promotes de novo synthesis, increases protein stability and induces nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling of KLHL14. Collectively, this research is an important step further to decipher KLHLs mechanism of action and further contributes to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Canciello
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Reyes Benot Domínguez
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Morrione
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
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Thepthanee C, Ei ZZ, Benjakul S, Zou H, Petsri K, Innets B, Chanvorachote P. Shrimp Lipids Inhibit Migration, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, and Cancer Stem Cells via Akt/mTOR/c-Myc Pathway Suppression. Biomedicines 2024; 12:722. [PMID: 38672078 PMCID: PMC11048134 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040722] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Shrimp is a rich source of bioactive molecules that provide health benefits. However, the high cholesterol content in shrimp oil may pose a risk. We utilized the cholesterol elimination method to obtain cholesterol-free shrimp lipids (CLs) and investigated their anticancer potential, focusing on cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Our study focused on CSCs and EMT, as these factors are known to contribute to cancer metastasis. The results showed that treatment with CLs at doses ranging from 0 to 500 µg/mL significantly suppressed the cell migration ability of human lung cancer (H460 and H292) cells, indicating its potential to inhibit cancer metastasis. The CLs at such concentrations did not cause cytotoxicity to normal human keratinocytes. Additionally, CL treatment was found to significantly reduce the levels of Snail, Slug, and Vimentin, which are markers of EMT. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of CLs on CSC-like phenotypes and found that CLs could significantly suppress the formation of a three-dimensional (3D) tumor spheroid in lung cancer cells. Furthermore, CLs induced apoptosis in the CSC-rich population and significantly depleted the levels of CSC markers CD133, CD44, and Sox2. A mechanistic investigation demonstrated that exposing lung cancer cells to CLs downregulated the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR, as well as c-Myc expression. Based on these findings, we believe that CLs may have beneficial effects on health as they potentially suppress EMT and CSCs, as well as the cancer-potentiating pathway of Akt/mTOR/c-Myc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chorpaka Thepthanee
- Department of Food Science, School of Food Industry, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand;
| | - Zin Zin Ei
- Center of Excellence in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (Z.Z.E.); (B.I.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Soottawat Benjakul
- International Center of Excellence in Seafood Science and Innovation, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Prince of Songkhla University, Songkhla 90110, Thailand;
| | - Hongbin Zou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Korrakod Petsri
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand;
| | - Bhurichaya Innets
- Center of Excellence in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (Z.Z.E.); (B.I.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pithi Chanvorachote
- Center of Excellence in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (Z.Z.E.); (B.I.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Li T, Niu M, Zhou J, Wu K, Yi M. The enhanced antitumor activity of bispecific antibody targeting PD-1/PD-L1 signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:179. [PMID: 38475778 PMCID: PMC10935874 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01562-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) signaling pathway, a key player in immune checkpoint regulation, has become a focal point in cancer immunotherapy. In the context of cancer, upregulated PD-L1 on tumor cells can result in T cell exhaustion and immune evasion, fostering tumor progression. The advent of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor has demonstrated clinical success by unleashing T cells from exhaustion. Nevertheless, challenges such as resistance and adverse effects have spurred the exploration of innovative strategies, with bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) emerging as a promising frontier. BsAbs offer a multifaceted approach to cancer immunotherapy by simultaneously targeting PD-L1 and other immune regulatory molecules. We focus on recent advancements in PD-1/PD-L1 therapy with a particular emphasis on the development and potential of BsAbs, especially in the context of solid tumors. Various BsAb products targeting PD-1 signaling are discussed, highlighting their unique mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential. Noteworthy examples include anti-TGFβ × PD-L1, anti-CD47 × PD-L1, anti-VEGF × PD-L1, anti-4-1BB × PD-L1, anti-LAG-3 × PD-L1, and anti-PD-1 × CTLA-4 BsAbs. Besides, we summarize ongoing clinical studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of these innovative BsAb agents. By unraveling the intricacies of the tumor microenvironment and harnessing the synergistic effects of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 BsAbs, there exists the potential to elevate the precision and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, ultimately enabling the development of personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual patient profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianye Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengke Niu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kongming Wu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Wang L, Hong Z. Circular RNA circ-SLC7A5 Functions as a Competing Endogenous RNA to Impact Cell Biological Behaviors in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC). Cell Biochem Biophys 2024; 82:139-151. [PMID: 37814151 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-023-01183-8] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have profound effects on establishment and pathogenesis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here, we defined whether circRNA solute carrier family 7 member 5 (circ-SLC7A5, also called hsa_circ_0040796) is causally involved in the pathogenesis of ESCC. METHODS Circ-SLC7A5, microRNA (miR)-874-3p and coronin-1C (CORO1C) expression levels were gauged by qRT-PCR or immunoblotting. Cell functional phenotypes were tested by colony formation, EdU, flow cytometry, transwell and wound-healing assays. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual-luciferase reporter assays were applied to ascertained circ-SLC7A5/miR-874-3p and miR-874-3p/CORO1C relationships. RESULTS Circ-SLC7A5 was highly expressed in human ESCC. Circ-SLC7A5 depletion impaired cell growth, migration, invasiveness, and promoted apoptosis. Circ-SLC7A5 knockdown diminished ESCC cell tumorigenicity. Mechanistically, circ-SLC7A5 contained a binding site for miR-874-3p. Also, miR-874-3p was responsible for circ-SLC7A5's function in ESCC cells. CORO1C was a direct miR-874-3p target. Circ-SLC7A5 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to control CORO1C by competing for shared miR-874-3p. Furthermore, CORO1C knockdown phenocopied miR-874-3p overexpression in impacting the biological behaviors of ESCC cells. CONCLUSION These findings identify circ-SLC7A5 as a crucial modulator of ESCC cells and establish a novel circ-SLC7A5/miR-874-3p/CORO1C ceRNA network in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhipeng Hong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China.
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16
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Sacco JL, Vaneman ZT, Gomez EW. Extracellular matrix viscoelasticity regulates TGFβ1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and apoptosis via integrin linked kinase. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31165. [PMID: 38149820 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31165] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is a multifunctional cytokine that plays important roles in health and disease. Previous studies have revealed that TGFβ1 activation, signaling, and downstream cell responses including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and apoptosis are regulated by the elasticity or stiffness of the extracellular matrix. However, tissues within the body are not purely elastic, rather they are viscoelastic. How matrix viscoelasticity impacts cell fate decisions downstream of TGFβ1 remains unknown. Here, we synthesized polyacrylamide hydrogels that mimic the viscoelastic properties of breast tumor tissue. We found that increasing matrix viscous dissipation reduces TGFβ1-induced cell spreading, F-actin stress fiber formation, and EMT-associated gene expression changes, and promotes TGFβ1-induced apoptosis in mammary epithelial cells. Furthermore, TGFβ1-induced expression of integrin linked kinase (ILK) and colocalization of ILK with vinculin at cell adhesions is attenuated in mammary epithelial cells cultured on viscoelastic substrata in comparison to cells cultured on nearly elastic substrata. Overexpression of ILK promotes TGFβ1-induced EMT and reduces apoptosis in cells cultured on viscoelastic substrata, suggesting that ILK plays an important role in regulating cell fate downstream of TGFβ1 in response to matrix viscoelasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Sacco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zachary T Vaneman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Esther W Gomez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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17
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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18
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Tripathi SK, Sahoo RK, Biswal BK. Exposure of piperlongumine attenuates stemness and epithelial to mesenchymal transition phenotype with more potent anti-metastatic activity in SOX9 deficient human lung cancer cells. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-02965-4. [PMID: 38280008 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-02965-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Phytocompounds have shown hopeful results in cancer therapy. Piperlongumine (PIP), a naturally derived bioactive alkaloid found in our dietary spice, exhibits promising pharmacological relevance including anticancer activity. This study reconnoitred the anti-lung cancer effect of PIP and the allied mechanisms, in vitro and ex vivo. The cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic effects of PIP on lung cancer cells (LCC) were checked via cell viability, colony formation, cell migration, invasion, comet assay, and various staining techniques. Further, multicellular spheroids assay explored the anti-lung cancer potential of PIP, ex vivo. Preliminary results explored that PIP exerts selective cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects on LCC by DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. PIP remarkably escalated the cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and promoted dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), which triggers activation of caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway in LCC. Mechanistically, PIP showed F-actin deformation mediated significant anti-migratory and anti-invasive activity against LCC. Herein, we also found that F-actin dis-organization modulates the expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and inhibits the expression of stemness marker proteins, like SOX9, CD-133, and CD-44. Moreover, PIP effectively reduced the size of spheroids with strong apoptotic and cytotoxic effects, ex vivo. This has been the first study to discover the high expression of SOX9 supporting the survival of LCC, whereas its inhibition induces higher sensitivity to PIP treatment. This study concludes a newer therapeutic agent (PIP) with promising anticancer activity against LCC by escalating ROS and attenuating MMP, stemness, and EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya Kant Tripathi
- Cancer Drug Resistance Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, 769008, Odisha, India
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Centre, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 27514, NC, USA
| | - Rajeev Kumar Sahoo
- Cancer Drug Resistance Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Bijesh Kumar Biswal
- Cancer Drug Resistance Laboratory, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, 769008, Odisha, India.
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19
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Rodrigues DB, Reis RL, Pirraco RP. Modelling the complex nature of the tumor microenvironment: 3D tumor spheroids as an evolving tool. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:13. [PMID: 38254117 PMCID: PMC10804490 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-00997-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a serious burden in society and while the pace in the development of novel and more effective therapeutics is increasing, testing platforms that faithfully mimic the tumor microenvironment are lacking. With a clear shift from animal models to more complex in vitro 3D systems, spheroids emerge as strong options in this regard. Years of development have allowed spheroid-based models to better reproduce the biomechanical cues that are observed in the tumor-associated extracellular matrix (ECM) and cellular interactions that occur in both a cell-cell and cell-ECM manner. Here, we summarize some of the key cellular interactions that drive tumor development, progression and invasion, and how successfully are these interactions recapitulated in 3D spheroid models currently in use in the field. We finish by speculating on future advancements in the field and on how these can shape the relevance of spherical 3D models for tumor modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Rodrigues
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs, Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence On Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L Reis
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs, Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence On Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rogério P Pirraco
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs, Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence On Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, 4805-017, Guimarães, Portugal.
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Cai X, Lv Y, Pan J, Cao Z, Zhang J, Li Y, Zheng H. CBX8 Promotes Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition, Migration, and Invasion of Lung Cancer through Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2024; 25:386-393. [PMID: 38265409 DOI: 10.2174/0113892037273375231204080906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer (LC) is primarily responsible for cancer-related deaths worldwide. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal features and is associated with the development of tumors. CBX8, a member of the PcG protein family, plays a critical role in various cancers, containing LC. However, specific regulatory mechanisms of CBX8 in LC progression are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of CBX8 in LC progression. METHODS Bioinformatics was used to analyze the relationship between CBX8 level and tumor and the enrichment pathway of CBX8 enrichment. qRT-PCR was used to detect the differential expression of CBX8 in LC cells and normal lung epithelial cells. The effects of knockdown or overexpression of CBX8 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of LC cells were evaluated by CCK- -8 assay and Transwell assay, and the levels of proteins associated with the EMT pathway and Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway were detected by western blot. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis revealed that CBX8 was highly expressed in LC and enriched on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The expression level of CBX8 was significantly elevated in LC cells. Knockdown of CBX8 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and decreased the expression levels of EMT-related proteins and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins. Conversely, overexpression of CBX8 promoted cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and increased the expression levels of EMT-related proteins and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins. The Wnt inhibitor IWP-4 alleviated the effects produced by overexpression of CBX8. CONCLUSION Collectively, these data demonstrated that CBX8 induced EMT through Wnt/β-- catenin signaling, driving migration and invasion of LC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Cai
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Yuankai Lv
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jiongwei Pan
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Zhuo Cao
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Junzhi Zhang
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Yuling Li
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
| | - Hao Zheng
- Department of Respiratory, Six affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui 323000, China
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Altunok TH, Muchut RJ, Iglesias AA, Yalcin A. Transforming growth factor β1 upregulates 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose 2,6-bisphosphatase-4 expression in A549 and MCF-10A cells. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:1220-1229. [PMID: 37707291 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) induces a cellular process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) associated with metabolic reprogramming, including enhanced glycolysis. Given the involvement of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose 2,6-bisphosphatase (PFKFB) enzymes in glycolysis, we aimed to investigate whether TGFβ1 regulates expressions of PFKFB genes and if PFKFBs are required for TGFβ1-driven phenotypes. A549 and MCF-10A cell lines were used as TGFβ1-driven EMT models. Messenger RNA expressions of PFKFB and EMT genes were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A small interfering RNA approach was used to deplete PFKFB4 expression. A Matrigel invasion assay was conducted to assess the effect of PFKFB4 silencing on the TGFβ1-enhanced invasion of A549 cells. F2,6BP levels were analyzed using an enzyme-coupled assay. Glucose and lactate concentrations were determined using colorimetric assays. TGFβ1 robustly induced expression of the fourth isoform of PFKFBs, PFKFB4, in both cell lines. PFKFB4 depletion partially inhibits mesenchymal transdifferentiation caused by TGFβ1 in A549 cells, as assessed by microscopy. Inductions of Snail in MCF-10A cells and Fibronectin in A549 cells and repressions of E-cadherin in both cell lines by TGFβ1 are attenuated by PFKFB4 silencing. PFKFB4 silencing reduces F2,6BP and glycolytic activity, although TGFβ1 alone does not affect these parameters. Finally, PFKFB4 depletion suppresses the TGFβ1-driven invasion of A549 cells through Matrigel. Presented data suggest that TGFβ1 induces the expression of PFKFB4 in A549 and MCF-10 cells, and PFKFB4 may be required for TGFβ1-driven phenotypes such as EMT and invasion in these models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugba H Altunok
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Robertino J Muchut
- Department of Molecular Enzymology, Coastal Agrobiotechnology Institute, National University of Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Alberto A Iglesias
- Department of Molecular Enzymology, Coastal Agrobiotechnology Institute, National University of Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Abdullah Yalcin
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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22
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Wang Z, Fu Y, Seno A, Bi Z, Pawar AS, Ji H, Almutairy BS, Qiu Y, Zhang W, Thakur C, Chen F. Tumor suppressive activity of AHR in environmental arsenic-induced carcinogenesis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 480:116747. [PMID: 37935250 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a highly conserved pleiotropic transcription factor that senses environmental pollutants, microbial products, and endogenous ligands. The transcriptional targets of AHR include phase I and phase II detoxification enzymes, as well as numerous signaling molecules that affect a wide spectrum of biological and biochemical processes in a manner of cellular context-dependent. In this review, we systematically assess the latest discoveries of AHR in carcinogenesis with an emphasis on its tumor suppressor-like property that represses the expression of genes in oncogenic signaling pathways. Additionally, we outline recent progress in our studies on the interaction among AHR, TGFb and NRF2 in cellular responses to arsenic and malignant transformation. Our findings indicate that AHR antagonized TGFb and NRF2, suggesting that AHR could serve as a potential tumor suppressor in arsenic-induced carcinogenesis. Notably, while AHR can exhibit both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive properties in cancer development and the generation of the cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), the tumor suppressor-like effect of AHR warrants further extensive exploration for the prevention and clinical treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Wang
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
| | - Yao Fu
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Akimasa Seno
- R&D Center, Katayama Chemicals Ind., Co. Ltd, Ina, Minoh, Osaka 562-0015, Japan
| | - Zhuoyue Bi
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Aashna S Pawar
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Haoyan Ji
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Bandar Saeed Almutairy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yiran Qiu
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Wenxuan Zhang
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Chitra Thakur
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Fei Chen
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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Liu X, Yan C, Chang C, Meng F, Shen W, Wang S, Zhang Y. FOXA2 Suppression by TRIM36 Exerts Anti-Tumor Role in Colorectal Cancer Via Inducing NRF2/GPX4-Regulated Ferroptosis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2304521. [PMID: 37875418 PMCID: PMC10724393 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
The forkhead box transcription factor A2 (FOXA2) is a transcription factor and plays a key role in embryonic development, metabolism homeostasis and tumor cell proliferation; however, its regulatory potential in CRC is not fully understood. Here, it is found that FOXA2 expression is markedly up-regulated in tumor samples of CRC patients as compared with the normal tissues, which is closely associated with the worse survival in patients with CRC. Notably, a positive correlation between FOXA2 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) gene expression is observed in CRC patients. Mechanistically, FOXA2 depletion weakens the activation of Nrf2 pathway and decreases GPX4 level in CRC cells, thereby leading to ferroptosis, which is further supported by bioinformatic analysis. More intriguingly, the E3 ubiquitin ligase tripartite motif containing 36 (TRIM36) is identified as a key suppressor of FOXA2, and it is observed that TRIM36 can directly interact with FOXA2 and induce its K48-linked polyubiquitination, resulting in FOXA2 protein degradation in vitro. Taken together, all the studies demonstrate that FOXA2 mediated by TRIM36 promotes CRC progression by inhibiting the Nrf2/GPX4 ferroptosis signaling pathway, thus providing a new therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Chunli Yan
- Department of Breast Internal MedicineShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Chunxiao Chang
- Ward 2 of GastroenterologyShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Fansong Meng
- Department of Medical ManagementShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Wenjie Shen
- Clinical Trial Research CenterShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Medical ManagementShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal SurgeryShandong Cancer Hospital and InstituteShandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical SciencesJinan250117China
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24
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Atiya HI, Gorecki G, Garcia GL, Frisbie LG, Baruwal R, Coffman L. Stromal-Modulated Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer Cells. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1604. [PMID: 38002286 PMCID: PMC10669774 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111604] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of cancer cells to detach from the primary site and metastasize is the main cause of cancer- related death among all cancer types. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the first event of the metastatic cascade, resulting in the loss of cell-cell adhesion and the acquisition of motile and stem-like phenotypes. A critical modulator of EMT in cancer cells is the stromal tumor microenvironment (TME), which can promote the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype through direct interaction with cancer cells or changes to the broader microenvironment. In this review, we will explore the role of stromal cells in modulating cancer cell EMT, with particular emphasis on the function of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) through the activation of EMT-inducing pathways, extra cellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, immune cell alteration, and metabolic rewiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huda I. Atiya
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Grace Gorecki
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Geyon L. Garcia
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Leonard G. Frisbie
- Department of Integrative Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Roja Baruwal
- Molecular Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Lan Coffman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women’s Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA15213, USA
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25
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Zeng Z, Fu M, Hu Y, Wei Y, Wei X, Luo M. Regulation and signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: implications for targeted therapy for cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:172. [PMID: 37853437 PMCID: PMC10583419 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01877-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), initially identified in leukemia in 1994, constitute a distinct subset of tumor cells characterized by surface markers such as CD133, CD44, and ALDH. Their behavior is regulated through a complex interplay of networks, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, epigenetic, tumor microenvironment (TME), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors. Numerous signaling pathways were found to be involved in the regulatory network of CSCs. The maintenance of CSC characteristics plays a pivotal role in driving CSC-associated tumor metastasis and conferring resistance to therapy. Consequently, CSCs have emerged as promising targets in cancer treatment. To date, researchers have developed several anticancer agents tailored to specifically target CSCs, with some of these treatment strategies currently undergoing preclinical or clinical trials. In this review, we outline the origin and biological characteristics of CSCs, explore the regulatory networks governing CSCs, discuss the signaling pathways implicated in these networks, and investigate the influential factors contributing to therapy resistance in CSCs. Finally, we offer insights into preclinical and clinical agents designed to eliminate CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zeng
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Minyang Fu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology Nursing, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Min Luo
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
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Xu Y, Huang Y, Cheng X, Hu B, Jiang D, Wu L, Peng S, Hu J. Mechanotransductive receptor Piezo1 as a promising target in the treatment of fibrosis diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1270979. [PMID: 37900917 PMCID: PMC10602816 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1270979] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis could happen in every organ, leading to organic malfunction and even organ failure, which poses a serious threat to global health. Early treatment of fibrosis has been reported to be the turning point, therefore, exploring potential correlates in the pathogenesis of fibrosis and how to reverse fibrosis has become a pressing issue. As a mechanism-sensitive cationic calcium channel, Piezo1 turns on in response to changes in the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane. Piezo1 exerts multiple biological roles, including inhibition of inflammation, cytoskeletal stabilization, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stromal stiffness, and immune cell mechanotransduction, interestingly enough. These processes are closely associated with the development of fibrotic diseases. Recent studies have shown that deletion or knockdown of Piezo1 attenuates the onset of fibrosis. Therefore, in this paper we comprehensively describe the biology of this gene, focusing on its potential relevance in pulmonary fibrosis, renal fibrosis, pancreatic fibrosis, and cardiac fibrosis diseases, except for the role of drugs (agonists), increased intracellular calcium and mechanical stress using this gene in alleviating fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yiqian Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoqing Cheng
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bin Hu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Danling Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lidong Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shengliang Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jialing Hu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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27
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Zhang P, Wu Y, Piao C, Song Y, Zhao Y, Lyu Y, Sun Q, Liu J. DNA methylome profiling in occupational radon exposure miners using an Illumina Infinium Methylation EPIC BeadChip. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2023; 12:943-953. [PMID: 37915496 PMCID: PMC10615836 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfad084] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A causal relationship between occupational radon exposure in underground miners and lung cancer risk has been demonstrated through large cohort epidemiological studies. However, the mechanisms by which radon exposure causes adverse effects on lung tissue remain unclear. Epigenetic alterations such as DNA methylation may provide new insights into interactions at molecular levels induced by prolonged radon exposure. Methods We used the Illumina Infinium Human Methylation 850 K BeadChip to detect and compare genome-wide DNA methylation profiles in peripheral blood samples from underground miners (n = 14) and aboveground workers (n = 9). Results The average concentration of radon in underground workplaces was significantly higher than that of aboveground places (1,198 Bq·m-3 vs 58 Bq·m-3, p < 0.001). A total of 191 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) corresponding to 104 hub genes were identified when |Δβ| ≥ 0.1 and p < 0.05, with 107 hypermethylated sites and 84 hypomethylated sites. GO and KEGG analysis revealed that differentially methylated genes between underground miners and aboveground workers were prominently enriched in pathways/networks involved in neurotransmitter regulation, immunomodulatory effects and cell adhesion ability. Furthermore, methylation changes of selected genes FERMT1, ALCAM, HLA-DPA1, PON1 and OR2L13 were validated by pyrosequencing, which may play vital roles in these biological processes induced by radon. Conclusion In summary, the DNA methylation pattern of the underground miners exposed to radon was distinct from that of the aboveground workers. Such abnormalities in the genomic DNA methylation profile associated with prolonged radon exposure are worth studying in terms of neuro- and immune-system regulation, as well as cell adhesion ability in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinhua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Yunyun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Chunnan Piao
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Yanchao Song
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Yanfang Zhao
- The Third People’s Hospital of Henan Province, Henan Hospital for Occupational Diseases, 3 Kangfu Middle Street, Erqi District, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yumin Lyu
- The Third People’s Hospital of Henan Province, Henan Hospital for Occupational Diseases, 3 Kangfu Middle Street, Erqi District, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Quanfu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Jianxiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Radiological Protection and Nuclear Emergency, China CDC, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Xinkang Street, Deshengmenwai, Xicheng District, Beijing 100088, China
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28
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Gohlke L, Alahdab A, Oberhofer A, Worf K, Holdenrieder S, Michaelis M, Cinatl J, Ritter CA. Loss of Key EMT-Regulating miRNAs Highlight the Role of ZEB1 in EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Resistant NSCLC. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14742. [PMID: 37834189 PMCID: PMC10573279 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914742] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), acquired drug resistance to targeted therapy remains a major obstacle. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been identified as a key resistance mechanism in NSCLC. Here, we investigated the mechanistic role of key EMT-regulating small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) in sublines of the NSCLC cell line HCC4006 adapted to afatinib, erlotinib, gefitinib, or osimertinib. The most differentially expressed miRNAs derived from extracellular vesicles were associated with EMT, and their predicted target ZEB1 was significantly overexpressed in all resistant cell lines. Transfection of a miR-205-5p mimic partially reversed EMT by inhibiting ZEB1, restoring CDH1 expression, and inhibiting migration in erlotinib-resistant cells. Gene expression of EMT-markers, transcription factors, and miRNAs were correlated during stepwise osimertinib adaptation of HCC4006 cells. Temporally relieving cells of osimertinib reversed transition trends, suggesting that the implementation of treatment pauses could provide prolonged benefits for patients. Our results provide new insights into the contribution of miRNAs to drug-resistant NSCLC harboring EGFR-activating mutations and highlight their role as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Gohlke
- Institute of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, University Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany;
| | - Ahmad Alahdab
- Institute of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, University Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany;
| | - Angela Oberhofer
- Munich Biomarker Research Center, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, German Heart Center, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany; (A.O.); (K.W.); (S.H.)
| | - Karolina Worf
- Munich Biomarker Research Center, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, German Heart Center, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany; (A.O.); (K.W.); (S.H.)
| | - Stefan Holdenrieder
- Munich Biomarker Research Center, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, German Heart Center, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany; (A.O.); (K.W.); (S.H.)
| | - Martin Michaelis
- School of Biosciences, Division of Natural Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NJ, UK;
| | - Jindrich Cinatl
- Institute of Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
| | - Christoph A Ritter
- Institute of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, University Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany;
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29
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Arechaga-Ocampo E. Epigenetics as a determinant of radiation response in cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 383:145-190. [PMID: 38359968 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment. Treatment is based on depositing focal radiation to the tumor to inhibit cell growth, proliferation and metastasis, and to promote the death of cancer cells. In addition, radiation also affects non-tumor cells in the tumor microenvironmental (TME). Radiation resistance of the tumor cells is the most common cause of treatment failure, allowing survival of cancer cell and subsequent tumor growing. Molecular radioresistance comprises genetic and epigenetic characteristics inherent in cancer cells, or characteristics acquired after exposure to radiation. Furthermore, cancer stem cells (CSCs) and non-tumor cells into the TME as stromal and immune cells have a role in promoting and maintaining radioresistant tumor phenotypes. Different regulatory molecules and pathways distinctive of radiation resistance include DNA repair, survival signaling and cell death pathways. Epigenetic mechanisms are one of the most relevant events that occur after radiotherapy to regulate the expression and function of key genes and proteins in the differential radiation-response. This article reviews recent data on the main molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways related to the biological response to radiotherapy in cancer; highlighting the epigenetic control exerted by DNA methylation, histone marks, chromatin remodeling and m6A RNA methylation on gene expression and activation of signaling pathways related to radiation therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Arechaga-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Unidad Cuajimalpa, Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico.
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30
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Hapeman JD, Carneiro CS, Nedelcu AM. A model for the dissemination of circulating tumour cell clusters involving platelet recruitment and a plastic switch between cooperative and individual behaviours. BMC Ecol Evol 2023; 23:39. [PMID: 37605189 PMCID: PMC10440896 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-023-02147-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of extensive research, cancer remains a major health problem worldwide. As cancer progresses, cells acquire traits that allow them to disperse and disseminate to distant locations in the body - a process known as metastasis. While in the vasculature, these cells are referred to as circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and can manifest either as single cells or clusters of cells (i.e., CTC clusters), with the latter being the most aggressive. The increased metastatic potential of CTC clusters is generally associated with cooperative group benefits in terms of survival, including increased resistance to shear stress, anoikis, immune attacks and drugs. However, the adoption of a group phenotype poses a challenge when exiting the vasculature (extravasation) as the large size can hinder the passage through vessel walls. Despite their significant role in the metastatic process, the mechanisms through which CTC clusters extravasate remain largely unknown. Based on the observed in vivo association between CTC clusters and platelets, we hypothesized that cancer cells take advantage of the platelet-derived Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 (TGF-β1) - a signalling factor that has been widely implicated in many aspects of cancer, to facilitate their own dissemination. To address this possibility, we evaluated the effect of exogenous TGF-β1 on an experimentally evolved non-small cell lung cancer cell line that we previously developed and used to investigate the biology of CTC clusters. RESULTS We found that exogenous TGF-β1 induced the dissociation of clusters in suspension into adherent single cells. Once adhered, cells released their own TGF-β1 and were able to individually migrate and invade in the absence of exogenous TGF-β1. Based on these findings we developed a model that involves a TGF-β1-mediated plastic switch between a cooperative phenotype and a single-celled stage that enables the extravasation of CTC clusters. CONCLUSIONS This model allows for the possibility that therapies can be developed against TGF-β1 signalling components and/or TGF-β1 target genes to suppress the metastatic potential of CTC clusters. Considering the negative impact that metastasis has on cancer prognosis and the lack of therapies against this process, interfering with the ability of CTC clusters to switch between cooperative and individual behaviours could provide new strategies to improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorian D Hapeman
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Caroline S Carneiro
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Aurora M Nedelcu
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada.
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31
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Anderson R, Rapoport BL, Steel HC, Theron AJ. Pro-Tumorigenic and Thrombotic Activities of Platelets in Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11927. [PMID: 37569299 PMCID: PMC10418868 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511927] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Aside from their key protective roles in hemostasis and innate immunity, platelets are now recognized as having multifaceted, adverse roles in the pathogenesis, progression and outcome of many types of human malignancy. The most consistent and compelling evidence in this context has been derived from the notable association of elevated circulating platelet counts with the onset and prognosis of various human malignancies, particularly lung cancer, which represents the primary focus of the current review. Key topics include an overview of the association of lung cancer with the circulating platelet count, as well as the mechanisms of platelet-mediated, pro-tumorigenic immunosuppression, particularly the role of transforming growth factor beta 1. These issues are followed by a discussion regarding the pro-tumorigenic role of platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs), the most abundant type of microparticles (MPs) in human blood. In this context, the presence of increased levels of PMPs in the blood of lung cancer patients has been associated with tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, which correlate with disease progression and decreased survival times. The final section of the review addresses, firstly, the role of cancer-related platelet activation and thrombosis in the pathogenesis of secondary cardiovascular disorders and the associated mortality, particularly in lung cancer, which is second only to disease progression; secondly, the review addresses the potential role of antiplatelet agents in the adjunctive therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Anderson
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
| | - Bernardo L. Rapoport
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
- The Medical Oncology Centre of Rosebank, Johannesburg 2196, South Africa
| | - Helen C. Steel
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
| | - Annette J. Theron
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; (B.L.R.); (H.C.S.); (A.J.T.)
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32
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Fan JR, Chang SN, Chu CT, Chen HC. AKT2-mediated nuclear deformation leads to genome instability during epithelial-mesenchymal transition. iScience 2023; 26:106992. [PMID: 37378334 PMCID: PMC10291577 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106992] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear deformation has been observed in some cancer cells for decades, but its underlying mechanism and biological significance remain elusive. To address these questions, we employed human lung cancer A549 cell line as a model in context with transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Here, we report that nuclear deformation induced by TGFβ is concomitant with increased phosphorylation of lamin A at Ser390, defective nuclear lamina and genome instability. AKT2 and Smad3 serve as the downstream effectors for TGFβ to induce nuclear deformation. AKT2 directly phosphorylates lamin A at Ser390, whereas Smad3 is required for AKT2 activation upon TGFβ stimulation. Expression of the lamin A mutant with a substitution of Ser390 to Ala or suppression of AKT2 or Smad3 prevents nuclear deformation and genome instability induced by TGFβ. These findings reveal a molecular mechanism for TGFβ-induced nuclear deformation and establish a role of nuclear deformation in genome instability during epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Rong Fan
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Cancer Progression Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Nian Chang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Tung Chu
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Chen Chen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Cancer Progression Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
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33
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Yoodee S, Thongboonkerd V. Epigenetic regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition during cancer development. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 380:1-61. [PMID: 37657856 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays essential roles in promoting malignant transformation of epithelial cells, leading to cancer progression and metastasis. During EMT-induced cancer development, a wide variety of genes are dramatically modified, especially down-regulation of epithelial-related genes and up-regulation of mesenchymal-related genes. Expression of other EMT-related genes is also modified during the carcinogenic process. Especially, epigenetic modifications are observed in the EMT-related genes, indicating their involvement in cancer development. Mechanically, epigenetic modifications of histone, DNA, mRNA and non-coding RNA stably change the EMT-related gene expression at transcription and translation levels. Herein, we summarize current knowledge on epigenetic regulatory mechanisms observed in EMT process relate to cancer development in humans. The better understanding of epigenetic regulation of EMT during cancer development may lead to improvement of drug design and preventive strategies in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunisa Yoodee
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Thongboonkerd
- Medical Proteomics Unit, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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34
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Lenda B, Żebrowska-Nawrocka M, Turek G, Balcerczak E. Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox Family: Non-Coding RNA and Epigenetic Regulation in Gliomas. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051364. [PMID: 37239035 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common malignant brain tumours. Among them, glioblastoma (GBM) is a grade four tumour with a median survival of approximately 15 months and still limited treatment options. Although a classical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is not the case in glioma due to its non-epithelial origin, the EMT-like processes may contribute largely to the aggressive and highly infiltrative nature of these tumours, thus promoting invasive phenotype and intracranial metastasis. To date, many well-known EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs) have been described with clear, biological functions in glioma progression. Among them, EMT-related families of molecules such as SNAI, TWIST and ZEB are widely cited, well-established oncogenes considering both epithelial and non-epithelial tumours. In this review, we aimed to summarise the current knowledge with a regard to functional experiments considering the impact of miRNA and lncRNA as well as other epigenetic modifications, with a main focus on ZEB1 and ZEB2 in gliomas. Although we explored various molecular interactions and pathophysiological processes, such as cancer stem cell phenotype, hypoxia-induced EMT, tumour microenvironment and TMZ-resistant tumour cells, there is still a pressing need to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which EMT-TFs are regulated in gliomas, which will enable researchers to uncover novel therapeutic targets as well as improve patients' diagnosis and prognostication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Lenda
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, BRaIN Laboratories, Medical University of Lodz, Czechoslowacka 4, 92-216 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marta Żebrowska-Nawrocka
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, BRaIN Laboratories, Medical University of Lodz, Czechoslowacka 4, 92-216 Lodz, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Turek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bródnowski Masovian Hospital, Kondratowicza 8, 03-242 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Balcerczak
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, BRaIN Laboratories, Medical University of Lodz, Czechoslowacka 4, 92-216 Lodz, Poland
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35
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Sharma R, Balta S, Raza A, Escalona RM, Kannourakis G, Prithviraj P, Ahmed N. In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Stemness as Prognostic Markers of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092586. [PMID: 37174052 PMCID: PMC10177434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) involves the phenotypic transformation of cells from epithelial to mesenchymal status. The cells exhibiting EMT contain features of cancer stem cells (CSC), and the dual processes are responsible for progressive cancers. Activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) is fundamental to the pathogenesis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and their role in promoting EMT and CSCs is crucial for ccRCC tumour cell survival, disease progression, and metastatic spread. In this study, we explored the status of HIF genes and their downstream targets, EMT and CSC markers, by immunohistochemistry on in-house accrued ccRCC biopsies and adjacent non-tumorous tissues from patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy. In combination, we comprehensively analysed the expression of HIF genes and its downstream EMT and CSC-associated targets relevant to ccRCC by using publicly available datasets, the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and the clinical proteome tumour analysis consortium (CPTAC). The aim was to search for novel biological prognostic markers that can stratify high-risk patients likely to experience metastatic disease. Using the above two approaches, we report the development of novel gene signatures that may help to identify patients at a high risk of developing metastatic and progressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revati Sharma
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Showan Balta
- Dorevitch Pathology, Ballarat Base Hospital, Drummond Street, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Ali Raza
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Ruth M Escalona
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - George Kannourakis
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Prashanth Prithviraj
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Nuzhat Ahmed
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Mt Helen Campus, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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36
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Piñeiro-Hermida S, Bosso G, Sánchez-Vázquez R, Martínez P, Blasco MA. Telomerase deficiency and dysfunctional telomeres in the lung tumor microenvironment impair tumor progression in NSCLC mouse models and patient-derived xenografts. Cell Death Differ 2023:10.1038/s41418-023-01149-6. [PMID: 37085672 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01149-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer death. Tumor progression depends on interactions of cancer cells with the tumor microenvironment. Here, we find increased copy number and mRNA expression of the catalytic subunit of telomerase, TERT, in tumors from NSCLC patients, contributing to a lower survival. Moreover, TERT expression in NSCLC patients from the TCGA cohort is mainly associated to the reduced infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes, as well as to increased infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). We also show that TERT deficiency and dysfunctional telomeres induced by 6-thio-dG treatment in mice reduced lung tumor implantation and vascularization, increased DNA damage response, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as well as reduced proliferation, inflammation, lung tumor immunosupression and invasion upon induction of a Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC). Furthermore, 6-thio-dG-treated human NSCLC xenografts exhibited increased telomere damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as well as reduced proliferation, resulting in a reduced tumor growth. Our results show that targeting telomeres might be an effective therapeutic strategy in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Piñeiro-Hermida
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Bosso
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Raúl Sánchez-Vázquez
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Paula Martínez
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Maria A Blasco
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.
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37
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Ramundo V, Palazzo ML, Aldieri E. TGF-β as Predictive Marker and Pharmacological Target in Lung Cancer Approach. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082295. [PMID: 37190223 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) represents the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality worldwide. LC onset is strongly related to genetic mutations and environmental interactions, such as tobacco smoking, or pathological conditions, such as chronic inflammation. Despite advancement in knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in LC, this tumor is still characterized by an unfavorable prognosis, and the current therapeutic options are unsatisfactory. TGF-β is a cytokine that regulates different biological processes, particularly at the pulmonary level, and its alteration has been demonstrated to be associated with LC progression. Moreover, TGF-β is involved in promoting invasiveness and metastasis, via epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) induction, where TGF-β is the major driver. Thus, a TGF-β-EMT signature may be considered a potential predictive marker in LC prognosis, and TGF-β-EMT inhibition has been demonstrated to prevent metastasis in various animal models. Concerning a LC therapeutic approach, some TGF-β and TGF-β-EMT inhibitors could be used in combination with chemo- and immunotherapy without major side effects, thereby improving cancer therapy. Overall, targeting TGF-β may be a valid possibility to fight LC, both in improving LC prognosis and cancer therapy, via a novel approach that could open up new effective strategies against this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Ramundo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
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38
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Morotti A, Gentile F, Lopez G, Passignani G, Valenti L, Locatelli M, Caroli M, Fanizzi C, Ferrero S, Vaira V. Epigenetic Rewiring of Metastatic Cancer to the Brain: Focus on Lung and Colon Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072145. [PMID: 37046805 PMCID: PMC10093491 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Distant metastasis occurs when cancer cells adapt to a tissue microenvironment that is different from the primary organ. This process requires genetic and epigenetic changes in cancer cells and the concomitant modification of the tumor stroma to facilitate invasion by metastatic cells. In this study, we analyzed differences in the epigenome of brain metastasis from the colon (n = 4) and lung (n = 14) cancer and we compared these signatures with those found in primary tumors. Results show that CRC tumors showed a high degree of genome-wide methylation compared to lung cancers. Further, brain metastasis from lung cancer deeply activates neural signatures able to modify the brain microenvironment favoring tumor cells adaptation. At the protein level, brain metastases from lung cancer show expression of the neural/glial marker Nestin. On the other hand, colon brain metastases show activation of metabolic signaling. These signatures are specific for metastatic tumors since primary cancers did not show such epigenetic derangements. In conclusion, our data shed light on the epi/molecular mechanisms that colon and lung cancers adopt to thrive in the brain environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Morotti
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Gentile
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lopez
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Passignani
- Precision Medicine Lab, Biological Resource Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Valenti
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Precision Medicine Lab, Biological Resource Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Locatelli
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Division of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Caroli
- Division of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Fanizzi
- Division of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrero
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Vaira
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Chong ZX, Ho WY, Yeap SK. Delineating the tumour-regulatory roles of EYA4. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 210:115466. [PMID: 36849065 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115466] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Eyes absent homolog 4 (EYA4) is a protein that regulates many vital cellular processes and organogenesis pathways. It possesses phosphatase, hydrolase, and transcriptional activation functions. Mutations in the Eya4 gene can cause sensorineural hearing loss and heart disease. In most non-nervous system cancers such as those of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), hematological and respiratory systems, EYA4 acts as a putative tumor suppressor. However, in nervous system tumors such as glioma, astrocytoma, and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST), it plays a putative tumor-promoting role. EYA4 interacts with various signaling proteins of the PI3K/AKT, JNK/cJUN, Wnt/GSK-3β, and cell cycle pathways to exert its tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressing effect. The tissue expression level and methylation profiles of Eya4 can help predict the prognosis and anti-cancer treatment response among cancer patients. Targeting and altering Eya4 expression and activity could be a potential therapeutic strategy to suppress carcinogenesis. In conclusion, EYA4 may have both putative tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressing roles in different human cancers and has the potential to serve as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic agent in various cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiong Chong
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Yong Ho
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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40
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Hu X, Jiang C, Hu N, Hong S. ADAMTS1 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway in non-small cell lung cancer by regulating TGF-β. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:2097-2114. [PMID: 36947712 PMCID: PMC10085599 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of all lung cancers. Identifying key molecular targets related to the initiation, development, and metastasis of lung cancer is important for its diagnosis and target therapy. The ADAMTS families of multidomain extracellular protease enzymes have been reported to be involved in many physiological processes. In this study, we found that ADAMTS1 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues, which promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of NSCLC cells. In the NSCLC tumor metastasis model involving nude mice, overexpression of ADAMTS1 promoted EMT and lung metastasis of tumor cells. Moreover, ADAMTS1 positively regulated TGF-β expression, and TGF-β was highly expressed in NSCLC tumor tissues. si-TGF-β or inhibition of TGF-β expression through the short peptide KTFR on ADAMTS1 protein could reverse the oncogenic effects of ADAMTS1 on lung cancer cells. Taken together, ADAMTS1 functioned as an oncogene in NSCLC cells by promoting TGF-β expression, indicating that ADAMTS1 has important regulatory roles in the progression of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqian Hu
- Department of Oncology, Ningbo Municipal Hospital of TCM, Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunqi Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Ningbo Municipal Hospital of TCM, Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ning Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Division, Ningbo Municipal Hospital of TCM, Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Ningbo, China
| | - Shanyi Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ningbo Municipal Hospital of TCM, Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Ningbo, China
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41
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Köseer AS, Di Gaetano S, Arndt C, Bachmann M, Dubrovska A. Immunotargeting of Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:1608. [PMID: 36900399 PMCID: PMC10001158 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The generally accepted view is that CSCs hijack the signaling pathways attributed to normal stem cells that regulate the self-renewal and differentiation processes. Therefore, the development of selective targeting strategies for CSC, although clinically meaningful, is associated with significant challenges because CSC and normal stem cells share many important signaling mechanisms for their maintenance and survival. Furthermore, the efficacy of this therapy is opposed by tumor heterogeneity and CSC plasticity. While there have been considerable efforts to target CSC populations by the chemical inhibition of the developmental pathways such as Notch, Hedgehog (Hh), and Wnt/β-catenin, noticeably fewer attempts were focused on the stimulation of the immune response by CSC-specific antigens, including cell-surface targets. Cancer immunotherapies are based on triggering the anti-tumor immune response by specific activation and targeted redirecting of immune cells toward tumor cells. This review is focused on CSC-directed immunotherapeutic approaches such as bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug candidates, CSC-targeted cellular immunotherapies, and immune-based vaccines. We discuss the strategies to improve the safety and efficacy of the different immunotherapeutic approaches and describe the current state of their clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Sedef Köseer
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01307 Dresden, Germany
- OncoRay–National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01309 Dresden, Germany
| | - Simona Di Gaetano
- OncoRay–National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01309 Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Arndt
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Bachmann
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Dubrovska
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01307 Dresden, Germany
- OncoRay–National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), 01309 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology-OncoRay, 01328 Dresden, Germany
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Gao T, Yang X, Fujisawa M, Ohara T, Wang T, Tomonobu N, Sakaguchi M, Yoshimura T, Matsukawa A. SPRED2: A Novel Regulator of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Stemness in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054996. [PMID: 36902429 PMCID: PMC10003366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054996] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The downregulation of SPRED2, a negative regulator of the ERK1/2 pathway, was previously detected in human cancers; however, the biological consequence remains unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of SPRED2 loss on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell function. Human HCC cell lines, expressing various levels of SPRED2 and SPRED2 knockdown, increased ERK1/2 activation. SPRED2-knockout (KO)-HepG2 cells displayed an elongated spindle shape with increased cell migration/invasion and cadherin switching, with features of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). SPRED2-KO cells demonstrated a higher ability to form spheres and colonies, expressed higher levels of stemness markers and were more resistant to cisplatin. Interestingly, SPRED2-KO cells also expressed higher levels of the stem cell surface markers CD44 and CD90. When CD44+CD90+ and CD44-CD90- populations from WT cells were analyzed, a lower level of SPRED2 and higher levels of stem cell markers were detected in CD44+CD90+ cells. Further, endogenous SPRED2 expression decreased when WT cells were cultured in 3D, but was restored in 2D culture. Finally, the levels of SPRED2 in clinical HCC tissues were significantly lower than those in adjacent non-HCC tissues and were negatively associated with progression-free survival. Thus, the downregulation of SPRED2 in HCC promotes EMT and stemness through the activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, and leads to more malignant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Gao
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Xu Yang
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Fujisawa
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Ohara
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Nahoko Tomonobu
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Masakiyo Sakaguchi
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Teizo Yoshimura
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Akihiro Matsukawa
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-86-235-7141
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Segal BH, Giridharan T, Suzuki S, Khan ANH, Zsiros E, Emmons TR, Yaffe MB, Gankema AAF, Hoogeboom M, Goetschalckx I, Matlung HL, Kuijpers TW. Neutrophil interactions with T cells, platelets, endothelial cells, and of course tumor cells. Immunol Rev 2023; 314:13-35. [PMID: 36527200 PMCID: PMC10174640 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophils sense microbes and host inflammatory mediators, and traffic to sites of infection where they direct a broad armamentarium of antimicrobial products against pathogens. Neutrophils are also activated by damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which are products of cellular injury that stimulate the innate immune system through pathways that are similar to those activated by microbes. Neutrophils and platelets become activated by injury, and cluster and cross-signal to each other with the cumulative effect of driving antimicrobial defense and hemostasis. In addition, neutrophil extracellular traps are extracellular chromatin and granular constituents that are generated in response to microbial and damage motifs and are pro-thrombotic and injurious. Although neutrophils can worsen tissue injury, neutrophils may also have a role in facilitating wound repair following injury. A central theme of this review relates to how critical functions of neutrophils that evolved to respond to infection and damage modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) in ways that can promote or limit tumor progression. Neutrophils are reprogrammed by the TME, and, in turn, can cross-signal to tumor cells and reshape the immune landscape of tumors. Importantly, promising new therapeutic strategies have been developed to target neutrophil recruitment and function to make cancer immunotherapy more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahm H Segal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Thejaswini Giridharan
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Sora Suzuki
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Anm Nazmul H Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Emese Zsiros
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Tiffany R Emmons
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael B Yaffe
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Angela A F Gankema
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark Hoogeboom
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ines Goetschalckx
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanke L Matlung
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Taco W Kuijpers
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology and Infectious Disease, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam University Medical Center (Amsterdam UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Guffroy M, Trela B, Kambara T, Stawski L, Chen H, Luus L, Montesinos MS, Olson L, He Y, Maisonave K, Carr T, Lu M, Ray AS, Hazelwood LA. Selective inhibition of integrin αvβ6 leads to rapid induction of urinary bladder tumors in cynomolgus macaques. Toxicol Sci 2023; 191:400-413. [PMID: 36515490 PMCID: PMC9936210 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Administration of a novel and selective small molecule integrin αvβ6 inhibitor, MORF-627, to young cynomolgus monkeys for 28 days resulted in the rapid induction of epithelial proliferative changes in the urinary bladder of 2 animals, in the absence of test agent genotoxicity. Microscopic findings included suburothelial infiltration by irregular nests and/or trabeculae of epithelial cells, variable cytologic atypia, and high mitotic rate, without invasion into the tunica muscularis. Morphologic features and patterns of tumor growth were consistent with a diagnosis of early-stage invasive urothelial carcinoma. Ki67 immunohistochemistry demonstrated diffusely increased epithelial proliferation in the urinary bladder of several monkeys, including those with tumors, and αvβ6 was expressed in some epithelial tissues, including urinary bladder, in monkeys and humans. Spontaneous urothelial carcinomas are extremely unusual in young healthy monkeys, suggesting a direct link of the finding to the test agent. Inhibition of integrin αvβ6 is intended to locally and selectively block transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling, which is implicated in epithelial proliferative disorders. Subsequent in vitro studies using a panel of integrin αvβ6 inhibitors in human bladder epithelial cells replicated the increased urothelial proliferation observed in monkeys and was reversed through exogenous application of TGF-β. Moreover, analysis of in vivo models of liver and lung fibrosis revealed evidence of epithelial hyperplasia and cell cycle dysregulation in mice treated with integrin αvβ6 or TGF-β receptor I inhibitors. The cumulative evidence suggests a direct link between integrin αvβ6 inhibition and decreased TGF-β signaling in the local bladder environment, with implications for epithelial proliferation and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruce Trela
- AbbVie, Inc, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, USA
| | | | - Lukasz Stawski
- Morphic Therapeutic, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, USA
| | - Huidong Chen
- Morphic Therapeutic, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, USA
| | - Lia Luus
- Morphic Therapeutic, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, USA
| | | | | | - Yupeng He
- AbbVie, Inc, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, USA
| | | | - Tracy Carr
- AbbVie, Inc, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, USA
| | - Min Lu
- Morphic Therapeutic, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, USA
| | - Adrian S Ray
- Morphic Therapeutic, Inc, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, USA
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Cao Y, Chen E, Wang X, Song J, Zhang H, Chen X. An emerging master inducer and regulator for epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis: extracellular and intracellular ATP and its molecular functions and therapeutic potential. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:20. [PMID: 36750864 PMCID: PMC9903449 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02859-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the rapid development of therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment, metastasis remains the major cause of cancer-related death and scientific challenge. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in cancer invasion and progression, a process by which tumor cells lose cell-cell adhesion and acquire increased invasiveness and metastatic activity. Recent work has uncovered some crucial roles of extracellular adenosine 5'- triphosphate (eATP), a major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Intratumoral extracellular ATP (eATP), at levels of 100-700 µM, is 103-104 times higher than in normal tissues. In the current literature, eATP's function in promoting metastasis has been relatively poorly understood as compared with intracellular ATP (iATP). Recent evidence has shown that cancer cells internalize eATP via macropinocytosis in vitro and in vivo, promoting cell growth and survival, drug resistance, and metastasis. Furthermore, ATP acts as a messenger molecule that activates P2 purinergic receptors expressed on both tumor and host cells, stimulating downstream signaling pathways to enhance the invasive and metastatic properties of tumor cells. Here, we review recent progress in understanding eATP's role in each step of the metastatic cascade, including initiating invasion, inducing EMT, overcoming anoikis, facilitating intravasation, circulation, and extravasation, and eventually establishing metastatic colonization. Collectively, these studies reveal eATP's important functions in many steps of metastasis and identify new opportunities for developing more effective therapeutic strategies to target ATP-associated processes in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyang Cao
- grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA
| | - Eileen Chen
- grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701 USA
| | - Xuan Wang
- grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA
| | - Jingwen Song
- grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA
| | - Haiyun Zhang
- grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA ,grid.20627.310000 0001 0668 7841The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH USA
| | - Xiaozhuo Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA. .,Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA. .,The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA. .,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA. .,Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, 45701, USA.
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Zhang Y, Zhang X, Huang X, Tang X, Zhang M, Li Z, Hu X, Zhang M, Wang X, Yan Y. Tumor stemness score to estimate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) characterization and to predict the prognosis and immunotherapy response in bladder urothelial carcinoma. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:15. [PMID: 36721217 PMCID: PMC9890713 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03239-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of investigations have suggested a close link between cancer stem cells (CSCs), epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the relationships between these physiological processes in bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) remain unclear. METHODS We first explored biomarkers of tumor stemness (TS) by single-cell sequencing analysis. Then, subtypes of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) were identified using clustering analysis based on TS biomarkers. The TS score was constructed using principal component analysis to quantify tumor stemness in BLCA. Then, meta-analysis was performed to measure the hazard ratio of the TS score in BLCA cohorts. Moreover, we evaluated the clinical value of the TS score for predicting the response to tumor immunotherapy using immunotherapy cohorts. Finally, we built an EMT cell model by treating T24 cells with TGF-β and validated the relationship between the TS score and the EMT process in tumors by real-time quantitative PCR, cell invasion assays, and RNA-seq. In total, 3846 BLCA cells, 6 cell lines, 1627 BLCA samples, and 9858 samples from 32 other types of tumors were included in our study. RESULTS Three TS clusters and two TS-related gene clusters were identified with differential EMT activity status, CSC features, and TME characteristics in BLCA. Then, a TS scoring system was established with 61 TS-related genes to quantify the TS. The prognostic value of the TS score was then confirmed in multiple independent cohorts. A high TS score was associated with high EMT activity, CSC characteristics, high stromal cell content, high TP53 mutation rate, poor prognosis, and high tumor immunotherapy tolerance. The cell line experiment and RNA-seq further validated that our TS score can reflect the EMT and CSC characterization of tumor cells. CONCLUSION Overall, this research provides a better understanding of tumor invasion and metastasis mechanisms through an analysis of TS patterns with different EMT processes and CSC characteristics. The TS score provides an index for EMT and CSC research and helps clinicians develop treatment plans and predict outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuefeng Huang
- Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaomeng Tang
- Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Menghan Zhang
- Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ziyi Li
- Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaopeng Hu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Research Ward, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020 China
| | - Xi Wang
- 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
| | - Yong Yan
- Department of Urology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Ai C, Rong T, Chen Z, Shen W, Huang K, Li Q, Xiong J, Li W. Cyclic AMP Responsive Element Binding Protein 3-like 4/AarF Domain Containing Kinase 5 Axis Facilitates Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells by Modulating the TGFβ Pathway. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-022-0248-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Zhang H, Chen B, Waliullah ASM, Aramaki S, Ping Y, Takanashi Y, Zhang C, Zhai Q, Yan J, Oyama S, Kahyo T, Setou M. A New Potential Therapeutic Target for Cancer in Ubiquitin-Like Proteins-UBL3. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021231. [PMID: 36674743 PMCID: PMC9863382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-like proteins (Ubls) are involved in a variety of biological processes through the modification of proteins. Dysregulation of Ubl modifications is associated with various diseases, especially cancer. Ubiquitin-like protein 3 (UBL3), a type of Ubl, was revealed to be a key factor in the process of small extracellular vesicle (sEV) protein sorting and major histocompatibility complex class II ubiquitination. A variety of sEV proteins that affects cancer properties has been found to interact with UBL3. An increasing number of studies has implied that UBL3 expression affects cancer cell growth and cancer prognosis. In this review, we provide an overview of the relationship between various Ubls and cancers. We mainly introduce UBL3 and its functions and summarize the current findings of UBL3 and examine its potential as a therapeutic target in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengsen Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - A. S. M. Waliullah
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Shuhei Aramaki
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yashuang Ping
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yusuke Takanashi
- First Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- Department of Systems Molecular Anatomy, Institute for Medical Photonics Research, Preeminent Medical Photonics, Education & Research Center, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Qing Zhai
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Jing Yan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Soho Oyama
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Kahyo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- International Mass Imaging Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Mitsutoshi Setou
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- Department of Systems Molecular Anatomy, Institute for Medical Photonics Research, Preeminent Medical Photonics, Education & Research Center, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- International Mass Imaging Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-Ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-053-435-2086; Fax: +81-053-435-2468
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An Overview of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition in Canine Tumors: How Far Have We Come? Vet Sci 2022; 10:vetsci10010019. [PMID: 36669020 PMCID: PMC9865109 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010019] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, pre-clinical and clinical studies in human medicine have provided new insights, pushing forward the contemporary knowledge. The new results represented a motivation for investigators in specific fields of veterinary medicine, who addressed the same research topics from different perspectives in studies based on experimental and spontaneous animal disease models. The study of different pheno-genotypic contexts contributes to the confirmation of translational models of pathologic mechanisms. This review provides an overview of EMT and MET processes in both human and canine species. While human medicine rapidly advances, having a large amount of information available, veterinary medicine is not at the same level. This situation should provide motivation for the veterinary medicine research field, to apply the knowledge on humans to research in pets. By merging the knowledge of these two disciplines, better and faster results can be achieved, thus improving human and canine health.
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50
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Wu C, Sun G, Wang F, Chen J, Zhan F, Lian X, Wang J, Weng F, Li B, Tang W, Quan J, Xiang D. DYRK2 downregulation in colorectal cancer leads to epithelial-mesenchymal transition induction and chemoresistance. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22496. [PMID: 36577753 PMCID: PMC9797492 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25053-0] [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: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most prominent causes of cancer-associated mortality in the world, with chemoresistance representing one of the leading causes of treatment failure. However, the mechanisms governing such chemoresistance remain incompletely understood. In this study, the role of DYRK2 as a mediator of CRC cell drug resistance and the associated molecular mechanisms were assessed by evaluating human tumor tissue samples, CRC cell lines, and animal model systems. Initial analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas database and clinical tissue microarrays revealed significant DYRK2 downregulation in CRC in a manner correlated with poor prognosis. We further generated LoVo CRC cells that were resistant to the chemotherapeutic drug 5-FU, and found that such chemoresistance was associated with the downregulation of DYRK2 and a more aggressive mesenchymal phenotype. When DYRK2 was overexpressed in these cells, their proliferative, migratory, and invasive activities were reduced and they were more prone to apoptotic death. DYRK2 overexpression was also associated with enhanced chemosensitivity and the inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) induction in these LoVo 5-FUR cells. Co-immunoprecipitation assays revealed that DYRK2 bound to Twist and promoted its proteasomal degradation. In vivo studies further confirmed that the overexpression of DYRK2 inhibited human CRC xenograft tumor growth with concomitant Twist downregulation. Overall, these results thus highlight DYRK2 as a promising therapeutic target in CRC worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunrong Wu
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Guiyin Sun
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Fan Wang
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Jiangyan Chen
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Fangbiao Zhan
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Orthopedics, Chongqing University, Three Gorges Hospital, Wanzhou, Chongqing, 404000 China
| | - Xiaojuan Lian
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Jie Wang
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Fanbin Weng
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Bo Li
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Cardiology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Weijun Tang
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Jin Quan
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
| | - Debing Xiang
- grid.190737.b0000 0001 0154 0904Department of Oncology, Chongqing University Jiangjin Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260 China ,grid.452506.0Department of Oncology, Jiangjin Central Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 402260 China
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