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Liu YZ, Han DT, Shi DR, Hong B, Qian Y, Wu ZG, Yao SH, Tang TM, Wang MH, Xu XM, Yao HP. Pathological significance of abnormal recepteur d’origine nantais and programmed death ligand 1 expression in colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2020; 12:1216-1236. [PMID: 33250957 PMCID: PMC7667461 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v12.i11.1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunotherapy remains poorly efficacious in colorectal cancer (CRC). The recepteur d’origine nantais (RON) receptor tyrosine kinase plays an important role in regulating tumor immunity.
AIM To identify the patterns of RON and PD-L1 expression and explore their clinical significance in CRC.
METHODS Gene expression data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO; n = 290) and patients at the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (FAHZUSM; n = 381) were analyzed to determine the prognostic value of RON and PD-L1 expression within the tumor microenvironment of CRC. HT29 cell line was treated with BMS-777607 to explore the relationship between RON activity and PD-L1 expression. Signaling pathways and protein expression perturbed by RON inhibition were evaluated by cellular immunofluorescence and Western blot.
RESULTS In the GEO patient cohort, cut-off values for RON and PD-L1 expression were determined to be 7.70 and 4.3, respectively. Stratification of patients based on these cutoffs demonstrated that high expression of RON and PD-L1 was associated with a poor prognosis. In the FAHZUSM cohort, rates of high expression of RON in tumor cells, high PD-L1 expression in tumor cells and tumor infiltrating monocytes, and both high RON and high PD-L1 expression in the tumor microenvironment were 121 (32%), 43 (11%), 91 (24%), and 51 (13.4%), respectively. High expression of RON was significantly correlated with high expression of PD-L1 in the tumor cell compartment (P < 0.001). High expression of RON and that of PD-L1 were independent prognostic factors for poorer overall survival. Concurrent high expression of both RON and PD-L1 in the tumor microenvironment was significantly associated with a poor prognosis. In vitro, BMS-777607 inhibited the phosphorylation of RON, inhibited PD-L1 expression, and attenuated activation of the ERK1/2 and AKT signaling pathways in CRC cells.
CONCLUSION RON, PD-L1, and their crosstalk are significant in predicting the prognostic value of CRC. Moreover, phosphorylation of RON upregulates PD-L1 expression, which provides a novel approach to immunotherapy in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Zhi Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Da-Ting Han
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dan-Rong Shi
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Bo Hong
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Wu
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Shu-Hao Yao
- Department of Stomatology, Wenzhou Medical University Renji College, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tao-Ming Tang
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ming-Hai Wang
- Cancer Biology Research Center and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, United States
| | - Xiang-Ming Xu
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hang-Ping Yao
- Department of Cancer Biology Research, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
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Yao HP, Tong XM, Hudson R, Wang MH. MET and RON receptor tyrosine kinases in colorectal adenocarcinoma: molecular features as drug targets and antibody-drug conjugates for therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:198. [PMID: 32962738 PMCID: PMC7510328 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01711-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRAC), featured by distinctive histopathological appearance, distant organ metastasis, acquired chemoresistance, and tumorigenic stemness is a group of heterogeneous cancers with unique genetic signatures and malignant phenotypes. Treatment of CRAC is a daunting task for oncologists. Currently, various strategies including molecular targeting using therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, small molecule kinase inhibitors and immunoregulatory checkpoint therapy have been applied to combat this deadly disease. However, these therapeutic modalities and approaches achieve only limited success. Thus, there is a pharmaceutical need to discover new targets and develop novel therapeutics for CRAC therapy. MET and RON receptor tyrosine kinases have been implicated in CRAC pathogenesis. Clinical studies have revealed that aberrant MET and/or RON expression and signaling are critical in regulating CRAC progression and malignant phenotypes. Increased MET and/or RON expression also has prognostic value for CRAC progression and patient survival. These features provide the rationale to target MET and RON for clinical CRAC intervention. At present, the use of small molecule kinase inhibitors targeting MET for CRAC treatment has achieved significant progress with several approvals for clinical application. Nevertheless, antibody-based biotherapeutics, although under clinical trials for more than 8 years, have made very little progress. In this review, we discuss the importance of MET and/or RON in CRAC tumorigenesis and development of anti-MET, anti-RON, and MET and RON-dual targeting antibody-drug conjugates for clinical application. The findings from both preclinical studies and clinical trials highlight the potential of this novel type of biotherapeutics for CRAC therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Ping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xiang-Min Tong
- Department of Hematology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Rachel Hudson
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, TX, Amarillo, USA
| | - Ming-Hai Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, TX, Amarillo, USA.
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3
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Zhou D, Huang L, Zhou Y, Wei T, Yang L, Li C. RON and RONΔ160 promote gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration, and adaption to hypoxia via interaction with β-catenin. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 11:2735-2748. [PMID: 31085796 PMCID: PMC6535062 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant accumulation of the receptor tyrosine kinase recepteur d’origine nantais (RON) has been verified in gastric adenocarcinoma. Upregulation of RON and its splice variant RONΔ160 contribute to the growth and migration in gastric cancer cells in vitro. However, the mechanisms of RON/RONΔ160-mediated gastric cancer growth and metastasis remain vague. We therefore examined the actions of RON, RONΔ160, and β-catenin in gastric cancer cells and tissue samples, and their effects on cell growth in vitro and in vivo. We found that in gastric cancer samples and cell lines, there was positive correlation between RON/RONΔ160 and β-catenin levels, and that they formed a RON/RONΔ160-β-catenin complex which was translocated to the nucleus. Hypoxia led the binding of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α to the RON/RONΔ160-β-catenin complex, which increased nuclear translocation and expression of downstream oncogenic signaling molecules. Overexpression of RON/RONΔ160 promoted the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells, which were also enhanced by hypoxia. Suppression of RON using siRNA or anti‑RON monoclonal antibody diminished gastric cancer cell and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. These findings establish a link between the receptor tyrosine kinase RON and β-catenin and provide insight into the mechanism by which they contribute to gastric cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Zhou
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Ling Huang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Lina Yang
- Department of Oncology, the Affiliated Dongnan Hospital of Xiamen University, Zhangzhou, Fujian 363000, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, Inner Mongolia 010030, China
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Kim SA, Lee KH, Lee DH, Lee JK, Lim SC, Joo YE, Chung IJ, Noh MG, Yoon TM. Receptor tyrosine kinase, RON, promotes tumor progression by regulating EMT and the MAPK signaling pathway in human oral squamous cell carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2019; 55:513-526. [PMID: 31268163 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase, recepteur d'origine nantais (RON), is known to be associated with the progression, metastasis, and prognosis of various types of cancers. Nevertheless, the role of RON in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unclear. This study evaluated whether RON affects oncogenic behavior, oncogenic signaling pathways, and clinical outcomes, including survival, in human OSCC. Reverse transcription‑PCR, quantitative PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical staining were used to determine mRNA and protein expression levels of RON. Cell invasion, migration and apoptosis assays were used to assess the functional effects of small interfering RNA‑mediated knockdown of RON or snail family transcriptional repressor 2 (SLUG). RON knockdown suppressed tumor cell invasion and migration and enhanced apoptosis in human OSCC cells. RON knockdown also decreased the phosphorylation of MAPK signaling proteins, such as ERK1/2, JNK and p38. In addition, RON knockdown suppressed the expression of the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT)‑related transcription factor, SLUG. SLUG knockdown blocked the enhancement of cell invasion and migration induced by macrophage‑stimulation protein (MSP)‑mediated RON activation in OSCC cells. The cell morphology was changed to spindle‑like shape under MSP‑mediated RON activation in OSCC cells. RON was overexpressed in both fresh and paraffin‑embedded human OSCC tissues. Taken together, these results indicate that RON contributed to tumor progression by regulating the EMT‑related factor, SLUG, and the MAPK pathway in OSCC. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the application of RON‑targeting agents, currently being studied in various cancer fields, for the treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Ae Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Hwa Lee
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Kyoo Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Chul Lim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Eun Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Joo Chung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Giun Noh
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Mi Yoon
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Chonnam 58128, Republic of Korea
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Krishnaswamy S, Bukhari I, Mohammed AK, Amer OE, Tripathi G, Alokail MS, Al-Daghri NM. Identification of the splice variants of Recepteur d'Origine nantais (RON) in lung cancer cell lines. Gene 2018; 679:335-340. [PMID: 30223007 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
RON receptor tyrosine kinase is a transmembrane protein directly involved in suppression of inflammation and its aberrant expression linked to cancers and metastasis. Efforts to block deregulated RON signaling in tumors using small molecule kinase inhibitors or antibodies have been complicated by the presence of unknown number/types of isoforms of RON, which, despite being structurally similar, localize differently and mediate varied functions. Current study was designed to identify the splice variants of RON transcripts formed by skipping of sequences between exons 9 and 14 for better understanding of isoform specific RON signaling in cancers. PCR amplification and bi-directional sequencing of a 901 bp cDNA sequence located between exons 9 to 14 of RON from lung cancer cell lines revealed the presence of two splicing variants formed by skipping of exons 11 and 11-13. Each of these transcripts was found in more than one cell line. Expressed sequence tag (EST) database search indicated that the splicing variant lacking exons 11-13 was a novel one. Here we conclude that the splice variants of RON lacking exon 11 and exons 11-13 were detected in several lung cancer cell lines. Novel variant formed by skipping exons 11-13, the sequence of which code for transmembrane region, is predicted to code for a truncated isoform that may be secreted out. Tumors may antagonize the ligand dependent anti-inflammatory function of wild-type RON by secreting out the ligand binding isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soundararajan Krishnaswamy
- Biomarkers Research Program, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ihtisham Bukhari
- Biomarkers Research Program, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Translational Research Institute, School of Medicine, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Abdul Khader Mohammed
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Osama Emam Amer
- Biomarkers Research Program, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gyanendra Tripathi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Westminster, London, W1W 6UW, UK.
| | - Majed S Alokail
- Biomarkers Research Program, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser M Al-Daghri
- Biomarkers Research Program, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Urbanski L, Leclair N, Anczuków O. Alternative-splicing defects in cancer: Splicing regulators and their downstream targets, guiding the way to novel cancer therapeutics. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2018; 9:e1476. [PMID: 29693319 PMCID: PMC6002934 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Defects in alternative splicing are frequently found in human tumors and result either from mutations in splicing-regulatory elements of specific cancer genes or from changes in the regulatory splicing machinery. RNA splicing regulators have emerged as a new class of oncoproteins and tumor suppressors, and contribute to disease progression by modulating RNA isoforms involved in the hallmark cancer pathways. Thus, dysregulation of alternative RNA splicing is fundamental to cancer and provides a potentially rich source of novel therapeutic targets. Here, we review the alterations in splicing regulatory factors detected in human tumors, as well as the resulting alternatively spliced isoforms that impact cancer hallmarks, and discuss how they contribute to disease pathogenesis. RNA splicing is a highly regulated process and, as such, the regulators are themselves tightly regulated. Differential transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation of splicing factors modulates their levels and activities in tumor cells. Furthermore, the composition of the tumor microenvironment can also influence which isoforms are expressed in a given cell type and impact drug responses. Finally, we summarize current efforts in targeting alternative splicing, including global splicing inhibition using small molecules blocking the spliceosome or splicing-factor-modifying enzymes, as well as splice-switching RNA-based therapeutics to modulate cancer-specific splicing isoforms. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing.
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Krishnaswamy S, Mohammed AK, Tripathi G, Alokail MS, Al-Daghri NM. Splice variants of the extracellular region of RON receptor tyrosine kinase in lung cancer cell lines identified by PCR and sequencing. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:738. [PMID: 29121914 PMCID: PMC5679369 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3747-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Altered expression of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) is a major driver of growth and metastasis of cancers. Recepteur d’origine nantais (RON) receptor is a single-pass transmembrane RTK aberrantly expressed in a number of cancers. Efforts to block deregulated RON signaling in tumors using small molecule kinase inhibitors or antibodies are complicated by the presence of unknown number/types of isoforms of RON, which, despite having similar sequences, are localized differently and mediate varied functions. The objective of this study was to identify splice variants of RON transcripts between exons 1 and 10 that code for the extracellular region. Methods Direct cDNA sequencing was performed for the transcript between exons 1–10 of RON by Sanger sequencing in various lung cancer cell lines. Results PCR amplification and bi-directional sequencing of cDNA for section between exons 1 and 10 from lung cancer cell lines revealed the presence of several splice variants of RON transcripts; the variants were formed by skipping of exons 2, 2–3, 5–6, 6 and 8–9. Each of these transcript variants were found in one or more cell lines. While the variants formed by skipping of exons 2, 2–3 and 5–6 resulted in loss of 63, 106 and 109 amino acids, respectively, and didn’t cause reading-frameshift, the transcripts formed by skipping of exons 6 and 8–9 caused reading-frameshift. Splice variant lacking exons 8–9 was found in 13 out of 23 cell lines tested. Conclusion Lung cancer cell lines contain several splice variants of RON which involve skipping of exons coding for extracellular region. Some of the splicing changes result in reading-frameshift and the N-terminally truncated isoforms are expected to be secreted out. The ubiquitous nature of alternative splicing events in RON suggests the need for isoform specific approaches to functional analysis and therapeutic targeting of RON. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-017-3747-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soundararajan Krishnaswamy
- Biomarkers Research Program, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.,Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Box 2455, Riyadh, PO, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul Khader Mohammed
- Biomarkers Research Program, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.,Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Box 2455, Riyadh, PO, 11451, Saudi Arabia.,Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Gyanendra Tripathi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Westminster, W1W 6UW, London, UK
| | - Majed S Alokail
- Biomarkers Research Program, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.,Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Box 2455, Riyadh, PO, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser M Al-Daghri
- Biomarkers Research Program, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia. .,Prince Mutaib Chair for Biomarkers of Osteoporosis, Riyadh Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Box 2455, Riyadh, PO, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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Faham N, Welm AL. RON Signaling Is a Key Mediator of Tumor Progression in Many Human Cancers. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 2017; 81:177-188. [PMID: 28057847 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.2016.81.031377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
With an increasing body of literature covering RON receptor tyrosine kinase function in different types of human cancers, it is becoming clear that RON has prominent roles in both cancer cells and in the tumor-associated microenvironment. RON not only activates several oncogenic signaling pathways in cancer cells, leading to more aggressive behavior, but also promotes an immunosuppressive, alternatively activated phenotype in macrophages and limits the antitumor immune response. These two unique functions of this oncogene, the strong correlation between RON expression and poor outcomes in cancer, and the high tolerability of a new RON inhibitor make it an exciting therapeutic target, the blocking of which offers an advantage toward improving the survival of cancer patients. Here, we discuss recent findings on the role of RON signaling in cancer progression and its potential in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najme Faham
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112
| | - Alana L Welm
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112
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Chen JF, Yu BX, Yu R, Ma L, Lv XY, Cheng Y, Ma Q. Monoclonal antibody Zt/g4 targeting RON receptor tyrosine kinase enhances chemosensitivity of bladder cancer cells to Epirubicin by promoting G1/S arrest and apoptosis. Oncol Rep 2017; 37:721-728. [PMID: 28075465 PMCID: PMC5355669 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Epirubicin (EPI) is one of the most used intravesical chemotherapy agents after transurethral resection to non-muscle invasive bladder tumors (NMIBC) to prevent cancer recurrence and progression. However, even after resection of bladder tumors and intravesical chemotherapy, half of them will recur and progress. RON is a membrane tyrosine kinase receptor usually overexpressed in bladder cancer cells and associated with poor pathological features. This study aims to investigate the effects of anti-RON monoclonal antibody Zt/g4 on the chemosensitivity of bladder cells to EPI. After Zt/g4 treatment, cell cytotoxicity was significantly increased and cell invasion was markedly suppressed in EPI-treated bladder cancer cells. Further investigation indicated that combing Zt/g4 with EPI promoted cell G1/S-phase arrest and apoptosis, which are the potential mechanisms that RON signaling inhibition enhances chemosensitivity of EPI. Thus, combing antibody-based RON targeted therapy enhances the therapeutic effects of intravesical chemotherapy, which provides new strategy for further improvement of NMIBC patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Feng Chen
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Bi-Xia Yu
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Rui Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315212, P.R. China
| | - Liang Ma
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Xiu-Yi Lv
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Yue Cheng
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
| | - Qi Ma
- Translational Research Laboratory for Urology, Ningbo First Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, P.R. China
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Xu P, Ding S, Zhu L, Le F, Huang X, Tian Y, Zhang X. Elevated RON protein expression in endometriosis and disease-associated ovarian cancers. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 295:631-639. [PMID: 27888297 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4248-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) protein expression has been demonstrated to correlate with tumor progression, metastasis, and prognosis, and its mRNA expression increases in deeply infiltrating endometriotic lesions. However, it remains unclear whether RON protein expression also increases in endometriotic lesions, and may be a risk factor of malignant transformation in endometriotic lesions. METHODS The protein expression of RON in control (n = 19), eutopic (n = 16), and ectopic (n = 51) endometria, as well as in endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOC, n = 16) was determined by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. RESULTS Endometriotic lesions expressed low levels of RON protein, but no RON protein expression appeared in matched eutopic or control endometrium. EAOC exhibited high levels of RON protein. The frequency and IHC score of RON protein expression were both significantly higher in EAOC [100.0% (14/14), 5.37 ± 0.74] than those in endometriotic lesions [51.0% (26/51), 2.15 ± 1.12; P = 0.002, 0.001]. Multivariate analysis of covariance only revealed a correlation of RON protein expression and EAOC (P = 0.006), but no correlations of RON protein expression and clinical parameters (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These obtained results suggest that increased RON expression might be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and disease-associated ovarian cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xu
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaojie Ding
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Libo Zhu
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Le
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiufeng Huang
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Tian
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinmei Zhang
- The Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China.
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Strategies of targeting the extracellular domain of RON tyrosine kinase receptor for cancer therapy and drug delivery. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2016; 142:2429-2446. [PMID: 27503093 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-016-2214-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer is one of the most important life-threatening diseases in the world. The current efforts to combat cancer are being focused on molecular-targeted therapies. The main purpose of such approaches is based on targeting cancer cell-specific molecules to minimize toxicity for the normal cells. RON (Recepteur d'Origine Nantais) tyrosine kinase receptor is one of the promising targets in cancer-targeted therapy and drug delivery. METHODS In this review, we will summarize the available agents against extracellular domain of RON with potential antitumor activities. RESULTS The presented antibodies and antibody drug conjugates against RON in this review showed wide spectrum of in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities promising the hope for them entering the clinical trials. CONCLUSION Due to critical role of extracellular domain of RON in receptor activation, the development of therapeutic agents against this region could lead to fruitful outcome in cancer therapy.
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Novel splicing variants of recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) tyrosine kinase involving exons 15-19 in lung cancer. Lung Cancer 2015; 92:41-6. [PMID: 26775595 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Altered expressions of receptor tyrosine kinases drive the growth and metastasis of several cancers. RON is a single pass transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) shown to be aberrantly expressed in various cancer types. However, target validation and successful therapeutic targeting of RON in cancers is hampered by the co-existence of unknown number/types of isoforms, which are structurally similar but functionally diverse. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify differential splicing in the C-terminal region of RON transcripts to better understand RON signaling in cancers. mRNA transcript sequence between exons 14 and 20 of RON was PCR amplified and sequenced using cDNA from 10 SCLC and 13 NSCLC cell lines. Specific exon deletions were identified by aligning sequencing chromatograms with reference RON cDNA sequence. RESULTS We identified the presence of four unique transcript sequence variants of RON formed through skipping of exons 15-19, 16-19, 16-17 and 16. The transcript variants, except the one lacking exons 15-19, were found in more than one cell line. Several cell lines contained two to four of these uniquely spliced transcript variants. dbEST (Expressed Sequence Tags database) or other DNA sequence databases did not contain RON cDNA sequences corresponding to any of the above exon deletions indicating that all these transcript sequence alterations are novel. CONCLUSIONS Results of our study indicate common occurrence of different types of alternatively spliced transcripts of RON in lung cancer with potential to be translated into proteins lacking active kinase domain. Our findings suggest that tumors produce several dominant negative isoforms which probably inhibit ligand dependent RON signaling, and hence, raise important questions regarding the appropriateness of blocking wild type RON signaling for therapy. Further, presence of transcript variants and their isoform products may interfere with quantitative and functional analysis during target validation.
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Feng L, Yao HP, Wang W, Zhou YQ, Zhou J, Zhang R, Wang MH. Efficacy of anti-RON antibody Zt/g4-drug maytansinoid conjugation (Anti-RON ADC) as a novel therapeutics for targeted colorectal cancer therapy. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 20:6045-58. [PMID: 25294907 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-0898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The receptor tyrosine kinase RON is critical in epithelial tumorigenesis and a drug target for cancer therapy. Here, we report the development and therapeutic efficacy of a novel anti-RON antibody Zt/g4-maytansinoid (DM1) conjugates for targeted colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Zt/g4 (IgG1a/κ) was conjugated to DM1 via thioether linkage to form Zt/g4-DM1 with a drug-antibody ratio of 4:1. CRC cell lines expressing different levels of RON were tested in vitro to determine Zt/g4-DM1-induced RON endocytosis, cell-cycle arrest, and cytotoxicity. Efficacy of Zt/g4-DM1 in vivo was evaluated in mouse xenograft CRC tumor model. RESULTS Zt/g4-DM1 rapidly induced RON endocytosis, arrested cell cycle at G2-M phase, reduced cell viability, and caused massive cell death within 72 hours. In mouse xenograft CRC models, Zt/g4-DM1 at a single dose of 20 mg/kg body weight effectively delayed CRC cell-mediated tumor growth up to 20 days. In a multiple dose-ranging study with a five injection regimen, Zt/g4-DM1 inhibited more than 90% tumor growth at doses of 7, 10, and 15 mg/kg body weight. The minimal dose achieving 50% of tumor inhibition was approximately 5.0 mg/kg. The prepared Zt/g4-DM1 is stable at 37°C for up to 30 days. At 60 mg/kg, Zt/g4-DM1 had a moderate toxicity in vivo with an average of 12% reduction in mouse body weight. CONCLUSION Zt/g4-DM1 is highly effective in targeted inhibition of CRC cell-derived tumor growth in mouse xenograft models. This work provides the basis for development of humanized Zt/g4-DM1 for RON-targeted CRC therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Feng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, Texas
| | - Hang-Ping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, Texas
| | - Yong-Qing Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianwei Zhou
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University School of Public Health, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ruiwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, Texas
| | - Ming-Hai Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China. Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, Texas.
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Wang MH, Zhang R, Zhou YQ, Yao HP. Pathogenesis of RON receptor tyrosine kinase in cancer cells: activation mechanism, functional crosstalk, and signaling addiction. J Biomed Res 2013; 27:345-56. [PMID: 24086167 PMCID: PMC3783819 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.27.20130038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The RON receptor tyrosine kinase, a member of the MET proto-oncogene family, is a pathogenic factor implicated in tumor malignancy. Specifically, aberrations in RON signaling result in increased cancer cell growth, survival, invasion, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. Biochemical events such as ligand binding, receptor overexpression, generation of structure-defected variants, and point mutations in the kinase domain contribute to RON signaling activation. Recently, functional crosstalk between RON and signaling proteins such as MET and EFGR has emerged as an additional mechanism for RON activation, which is critical for tumorigenic development. The RON signaling crosstalk acts either as a regulatory feedback loop that strengthens or enhances tumorigenic phenotype of cancer cells or serves as a signaling compensatory pathway providing a growth/survival advantage for cancer cells to escape targeted therapy. Moreover, viral oncoproteins derived from Friend leukemia or Epstein-Barr viruses interact with RON to drive viral oncogenesis. In cancer cells, RON signaling is integrated into cellular signaling network essential for cancer cell growth and survival. These activities provide the molecular basis of targeting RON for cancer treatment. In this review, we will discuss recent data that uncover the mechanisms of RON activation in cancer cells, review evidence of RON signaling crosstalk relevant to cancer malignancy, and emphasize the significance of the RON signaling addiction by cancer cells for tumor therapy. Understanding aberrant RON signaling will not only provide insight into the mechanisms of tumor pathogenesis, but also lead to the development of novel strategies for molecularly targeted cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hai Wang
- Cancer Biology Research Center, ; Department of Biomedical Sciences, and
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Zou Y, Howell GM, Humphrey LE, Wang J, Brattain MG. Ron knockdown and Ron monoclonal antibody IMC-RON8 sensitize pancreatic cancer to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi). PLoS One 2013; 8:e69992. [PMID: 23922886 PMCID: PMC3726703 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recepteur d'origine nantais (Ron) is overexpressed in a panel of pancreatic cancer cells and tissue samples from pancreatic cancer patients. Ron can be activated by its ligand macrophage stimulating protein (MSP), thereby activating oncogenic signaling pathways. Crosstalk between Ron and EGFR, c-Met, or IGF-1R may provide a mechanism underlying drug resistance. Thus, targeting Ron may represent a novel therapeutic strategy. IMC-RON8 is the first Ron monoclonal antibody (mAb) entering clinical trial for targeting Ron overexpression. Our studies show IMC-RON8 downmodulated Ron expression in pancreatic cancer cells and significantly blocked MSP-stimulated Ron activation, downstream Akt and ERK phosphorylation, and survivin mRNA expression. IMC-RON8 hindered MSP-induced cell migration and reduced cell transformation. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are reported to target expression of various genes through modification of nucleosome histones and non-histone proteins. Our work shows HDACi TSA and Panobinostat (PS) decreased Ron mRNA and protein expression in pancreatic cancer cells. PS also reduced downstream signaling of pAkt, survivin, and XIAP, as well as enhanced cell apoptosis. Interestingly, PS reduced colony formation in Ron knockdown cells to a greater extent than Ron scramble control cells in colony formation and soft agarose assays. IMC-RON8 could also sensitize pancreatic cancer cells to PS, as reflected by reduced colony numbers and size in combination treatment with IMC-RON8 and PS compared to single treatment alone. The co-treatment further reduced Ron expression and pAkt, and increased PARP cleavage compared to either treatment alone. This study suggests the potential for a novel combination approach which may ultimately be of value in treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zou
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Gillian M. Howell
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Lisa E. Humphrey
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Jing Wang
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Michael G. Brattain
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
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Abstract
Since the discovery of MSP (macrophage-stimulating protein; also known as MST1 and hepatocyte growth factor-like (HGFL)) as the ligand for the receptor tyrosine kinase RON (also known as MST1R) in the early 1990s, the roles of this signalling axis in cancer pathogenesis has been extensively studied in various model systems. Both in vitro and in vivo evidence has revealed that MSP-RON signalling is important for the invasive growth of different types of cancers. Currently, small-molecule inhibitors and antibodies blocking RON signalling are under investigation. Substantial responses have been achieved in human tumour xenograft models, laying the foundation for clinical validation. In this Review, we discuss recent advances that demonstrate the importance of MSP-RON signalling in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Ping Yao
- Viral Oncogenesis Section in State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis & Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P. R. China
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Sharma S, Zeng JY, Zhuang CM, Zhou YQ, Yao HP, Hu X, Zhang R, Wang MH. Small-molecule inhibitor BMS-777607 induces breast cancer cell polyploidy with increased resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy agents. Mol Cancer Ther 2013; 12:725-36. [PMID: 23468529 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-12-1079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The RON receptor tyrosine kinase is a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Here, we report therapeutic effect and phenotypic change of breast cancer cells in response to BMS-777607, a RON tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Treatment of breast cancer cells with BMS-777607 at therapeutic doses inhibited cancerous clonogenic growth but had only minimal effect on cell apoptosis. Significantly, BMS-777607 induced extensive polyploidy with multiple sets of chromosomes in cancer cells. This effect is independent of RON expression. Knockdown of RON in T-47D and ZR-75-1 cells by specific siRNA did not prevent polyploid formation. Immunofluorescent analysis of α-tubulin and γ-tubulin expression in polyploid cells revealed that BMS-777607 disrupts bipolar spindle formation and causes multipolar-like microtubule assembly. Also, both metaphase equatorial alignment and chromosomal segregation were absent in polyploid cells. These results suggest that cellular mitosis arrests at prophase/pro-metaphase and fails to undergo cytokinesis. By analyzing kinase-inhibitory profiles, aurora kinase B was identified as the target molecule inhibited by BMS-777607. In BMS-777607-treated cells, aurora kinase B was inhibited followed by protein degradation. Moreover, BMS-777607 inhibited Ser10 phosphorylation of histone H3, a substrate of aurora kinase B. Chemosensitivity analysis indicated the resistance of polyploid cells toward chemotherapeutics. Treatment with doxorubicin, bleomycin, methotrexate, and paclitaxel significantly increased cellular IC50 values. These findings highlight the theory that BMS-777607 acts as a multikinase inhibitor at therapeutic doses and is capable of inducing polyploidy by inhibiting aurora kinase B. Increased resistance of polyploid cells to cytotoxic chemotherapeutics could have a negative impact on targeted cancer therapy using BMS-777607.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharad Sharma
- Cancer Biology Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
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Yoon TM, Kim SA, Park YL, Lee KH, Sung MW, Lee JK, Lim SC, Chung IJ, Joo YE. Expression of the receptor tyrosine kinase recepteur d'origine nantais and its association with tumor progression in hypopharyngeal cancer. Head Neck 2012; 35:1106-13. [PMID: 22887469 DOI: 10.1002/hed.23090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to investigate expression of recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) in human hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and to determine whether RON affects tumor cell behavior in hypopharyngeal SCC cell line and if this would serve as a target for molecular therapy in a preclinical model. METHODS Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, cell invasion, migration, proliferation, and apoptosis assays were used to assess alteration of RON expression and its impact to cancer progression in human hypopharyngeal SCC. RESULTS Immunoreactivity of RON was observed in hypopharyngeal SCC tissues relative to adjacent normal mucosa in all cases. RON protein expression was significantly increased in metastatic lymph nodes than nonmetastatic lymph nodes by Western blotting. Knockdown of RON resulted in significantly reduced cell invasion, migration, and proliferation in human hypopharyngeal SCC cells. Knockdown of RON enhanced cell apoptosis through activation of caspase 3, caspase 7, and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP). CONCLUSION These results indicate that knockdown of RON expression may be associated with the reversal of invasive phenotype in hypopharyngeal SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Mi Yoon
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanju, Korea
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Yao HP, Zhou YQ, Ma Q, Guin S, Padhye SS, Zhang RW, Wang MH. The monoclonal antibody Zt/f2 targeting RON receptor tyrosine kinase as potential therapeutics against tumor growth-mediated by colon cancer cells. Mol Cancer 2011; 10:82. [PMID: 21749705 PMCID: PMC3142532 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-10-82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Accepted: 07/12/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overexpression of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase contributes to epithelial cell transformation, malignant progression, and acquired drug resistance. RON also has been considered as a potential target for therapeutic intervention. This study determines biochemical features and inhibitory activity of a mouse monoclonal antibody (mAb) Zt/f2 in experimental cancer therapy. Results Zt/f2 is a mouse IgG2a mAb that is highly specific and sensitive to human RON and its oncogenic variants such as RON160 (ED50 = 2.3 nmol/L). Receptor binding studies revealed that Zt/f2 interacts with an epitope(s) located in a 49 amino acid sequence coded by exon 11 in the RON β-chain extracellular sequences. This sequence is critical in regulating RON maturation and phosphorylation. Zt/f2 did not compete with ligand macrophage-stimulating protein for binding to RON; however, its engagement effectively induced RON internalization, which diminishes RON expression and impairs downstream signaling activation. These biochemical features provide the cellular basis for the use of Zt/f2 to inhibit tumor growth in animal model. Repeated administration of Zt/f2 as a single agent into Balb/c mice results in partial inhibition of tumor growth caused by transformed NIH-3T3 cells expressing oncogenic RON160. Colon cancer HT-29 cell-mediated tumor growth in athymic nude mice also was attenuated following Zt/f2 treatment. In both cases, ~50% inhibition of tumor growth as measured by tumor volume was achieved. Moreover, Zt/f2 in combination with 5-fluorouracil showed an enhanced inhibition effect of ~80% on HT-29 cell-mediated tumor growth in vivo. Conclusions Zt/f2 is a potential therapeutic mAb capable of inhibiting RON-mediated oncogenesis by colon cancer cells in animal models. The inhibitory effect of Zt/f2 in vivo in combination with chemoagent 5-fluorouracil could represent a novel strategy for future colon cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Ping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University College of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
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Requirement for LMP1-induced RON receptor tyrosine kinase in Epstein-Barr virus-mediated B-cell proliferation. Blood 2011; 118:1340-9. [PMID: 21659546 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2011-02-335448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
EBV, an oncogenic human herpesvirus, can transform primary B lymphocytes into immortalized lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) through multiple regulatory mechanisms. However, the involvement of protein tyrosine kinases in the infinite proliferation of B cells is not clear. In this study, we performed kinase display assays to investigate this subject and identified a specific cellular target, Recepteur d'Origine Nantais (RON) tyrosine kinase, expressed in LCLs but not in primary B cells. Furthermore, we found that latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), an important EBV oncogenic protein, enhanced RON expression through its C-terminal activation region-1 (CTAR1) by promoting NF-κB binding to the RON promoter. RON knockdown decreased the proliferation of LCLs, and transfection with RON compensated for the growth inhibition caused by knockdown of LMP1. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a correlation between LMP1 and RON expression in biopsies from posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD), suggesting that LMP1-induced RON expression not only is essential for the growth of LCLs but also may contribute to the pathogenesis of EBV-associated PTLD. Our study is the first to reveal the impact of RON on the proliferation of transformed B cells and to suggest that RON may be a novel therapeutic target for EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases.
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Isolation of Fully Human Antagonistic RON Antibodies Showing Efficient Block of Downstream Signaling and Cell Migration. Transl Oncol 2011; 4:38-46. [PMID: 21286376 DOI: 10.1593/tlo.10211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2010] [Revised: 10/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RON belongs to the c-MET family of receptor tyrosine kinases. As its well-known family member MET, RON and its ligand macrophage-stimulating protein have been implicated in the progression and metastasis of tumors and have been shown to be overexpressed in cancer. We generated and tested a large number of human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against human RON. Our screening yielded three high-affinity antibodies that efficiently block ligand-dependent intracellular AKT and MAPK signaling. This effect correlates with the strong reduction of ligand-activated migration of T47D breast cancer cell line. By cross-competition experiments, we showed that the antagonistic antibodies fall into three distinct epitope regions of the RON extracellular Sema domain. Notably, no inhibition of tumor growth was observed in different epithelial tumor xenografts in nude mice with any of the antibodies. These results suggest that distinct properties beside ligand antagonism are required for anti-RON mAbs to exert antitumor effects in vivo.
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Benvenuti S, Lazzari L, Arnesano A, Li Chiavi G, Gentile A, Comoglio PM. Ron kinase transphosphorylation sustains MET oncogene addiction. Cancer Res 2011; 71:1945-55. [PMID: 21212418 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-2100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Receptors for the scatter factors HGF and MSP that are encoded by the MET and RON oncogenes are key players in invasive growth. Receptor cross-talk between Met and Ron occurs. Amplification of the MET oncogene results in kinase activation, deregulated expression of an invasive growth phenotype, and addiction to MET oncogene signaling (i.e., dependency on sustained Met signaling for survival and proliferation). Here we show that cancer cells addicted to MET also display constitutive activation of the Ron kinase. In human cancer cell lines coexpressing the 2 oncogenes, Ron is specifically transphosphorylated by activated Met. In contrast, Ron phosphorylation is not triggered in cells harboring constitutively active kinase receptors other than Met, including Egfr or Her2. Furthermore, Ron phosphorylation is suppressed by Met-specific kinase inhibitors (PHA-665752 or JNJ-38877605). Last, Ron phosphorylation is quenched by reducing cell surface expression of Met proteins by antibody-induced shedding. In MET-addicted cancer cells, short hairpin RNA-mediated silencing of RON expression resulted in decreased proliferation and clonogenic activity in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. Our findings establish that oncogene addiction to MET involves Ron transactivation, pointing to Ron kinase as a target for combinatorial cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Benvenuti
- Exploratory Research Laboratory, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), University of Turin Medical School, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
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Ma Q, Zhang K, Guin S, Zhou YQ, Wang MH. Deletion or insertion in the first immunoglobulin-plexin-transcription (IPT) domain differentially regulates expression and tumorigenic activities of RON receptor Tyrosine Kinase. Mol Cancer 2010; 9:307. [PMID: 21114864 PMCID: PMC3001714 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-9-307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/29/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activation of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase, a member of the c-MET family, regulates tumorigenic phenotypes. The RON extracellular domains are critical in regulating these activities. The objective of this study was to determine the role of the first IPT domain in regulating RON-mediated tumorigenic activities and the underlying mechanisms. Results Two RON variants, RON160 and RONE5/6in with deletion and insertion in the first IPT domain, respectively, were molecularly cloned. RON160 was a splicing variant generated by deletion of 109 amino acids encoded by exons 5 and 6. In contrast, RONE5/6in was derived from a transcript with an insertion of 20 amino acids between exons 5 and 6. Both RON160 and RONE5/6in were proteolytically matured into two-chain receptor and expressed on the cell surface. RON160 was constitutively active with tyrosine phosphorylation. However, activation of RONE5/6in required ligand stimulation. Deletion resulted in the resistance of RON160 to proteolytic digestion by cell associated trypsin-like enzymes. RON160 also resisted anti-RON antibody-induced receptor internalization. These features contributed to sustained intracellular signaling cascades. On the other hand, RONE5/6in was highly susceptible to protease digestion, which led to formation of a truncated variant known as RONp110. RONE5/6in also underwent rapid internalization upon anti-RON antibody treatment, which led to signaling attenuation. Although ligand-induced activation of RONE5/6in partially caused epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), it was RON160 that showed cell-transforming activities in cell focus formation and anchorage-independent growth. RON160-mediated EMT is also associated with increased motile/invasive activity. Conclusions Alterations in the first IPT domain in extracellular region differentially regulate RON mediated tumorigenic activities. Deletion of the first IPT results in formation of oncogenic variant RON160. Enhanced degradation and internalization with attenuated signaling cascades could be the mechanisms underlying non-tumorigenic features of RONE5/6in.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Ma
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology in State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P, R, China
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Park JS, Park JH, Khoi PN, Joo YE, Jung YD. MSP-induced RON activation upregulates uPAR expression and cell invasiveness via MAPK, AP-1 and NF-κB signals in gastric cancer cells. Carcinogenesis 2010; 32:175-81. [PMID: 21081472 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgq241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of recepteur d'Origine nantais (RON) and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) have been observed in human gastric cancers. However, the interaction between RON and uPAR in gastric cancer is unclear. The present study investigated the effect of macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP, the RON ligand) on uPAR expression and the underlying signal pathways in human gastric cancer AGS cells. uPAR messenger RNA expression was induced by MSP in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. MSP also induced uPAR promoter activity. The introduction of RON-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly affected the MSP-induced uPAR transcription. Deleted and site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated the involvement of the binding sites of transcription factor nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and activator protein (AP)-1 in the MSP-induced uPAR expression. Studies with expression vectors encoding mutated-type NF-κB signaling molecules and AP-1 decoy confirmed that NF-κB and AP-1 were essential for the MSP-induced uPAR expression. In addition, MSP induced the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (Erk-1/2), c-Jun amino terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Dominant-negative mutants (K97M and TAM67) and specific inhibitors of Erk-1/2 and JNK were able to suppress the MSP-induced uPAR expression. AGS cells pretreated with MSP showed a remarkably enhanced invasiveness, which was partially abrogated by siRNA-targeted RON and uPAR-neutralizing antibodies. The above results suggest that MSP induces uPAR expression via MAPK, AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways and, in turn, stimulates cell invasiveness in human gastric cancer AGS cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Sun Park
- Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Chonnam National University Medical School, Kwangju 501-190, Korea
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Wang MH, Padhye SS, Guin S, Ma Q, Zhou YQ. Potential therapeutics specific to c-MET/RON receptor tyrosine kinases for molecular targeting in cancer therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2010; 31:1181-8. [PMID: 20694025 PMCID: PMC4002297 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2010.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Products of proto-oncogenes c-MET and RON belong to a subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases that contribute significantly to tumorigenic progression. In primary tumors, altered c-MET/RON expression transduces signals regulating invasive growth that is characterized by cell migration and matrix invasion. These pathogenic features provide the basis for targeting c-MET/RON in cancer therapy. In the last decade, various approaches have been investigated to suppress c-MET/RON-transduced oncogenesis. Among the therapeutics developed, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small-molecule inhibitors (SMIs) have emerged as promising candidates. The mechanism of these therapeutic candidates is the disruption of tumor dependency on c-MET/RON signals for survival. The mAbs specific to hepatocyte growth factor (AMG102) and c-MET (MetMAb) are both humanized and able to block c-MET signaling, leading to inhibition of tumor cell proliferation in vitro and inhibition of tumor growth in xenograft models. The mAb AMG102 neutralizes hepatocyte growth factor and enhances the cytotoxicity of various chemotherapeutics to tumors in vivo. AMG102 is currently in phase II clinical trials for patients with advanced solid tumors. IMC-41A40 and Zt/f2 are RON-specific mAbs that down-regulate RON expression and inhibit ligand-induced phosphorylation. Both mAbs inhibit tumor growth in mice mediated by colon and pancreatic cancer cells. SMIs specific to c-MET (ARQ107 and PF-02341066) are in various phases of clinical trials. Therapeutic efficacy has also been observed with dual inhibitors such as Compound I, which is specific to c-MET/RON. However, a potential issue is the emergence of acquired resistance to these inhibitors. Clearly, development of c-MET/RON therapeutics provides opportunities and challenges for combating cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hai Wang
- Center for Cancer Biology & Therapeutics and Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Snehal S Padhye
- Center for Cancer Biology & Therapeutics and Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Sunny Guin
- Center for Cancer Biology & Therapeutics and Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Qi Ma
- Center for Cancer Biology & Therapeutics and Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Yong-qing Zhou
- Division of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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Long XE, Gong ZH, Pan L, Zhong ZW, Le YP, Liu Q, Guo JM, Zhong JC. Suppression of CDK2 expression by siRNA induces cell cycle arrest and cell proliferation inhibition in human cancer cells. BMB Rep 2010; 43:291-6. [PMID: 20423616 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2010.43.4.291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) is a member of serine/ threonine protein kinases, which initiates the principal transitions of the eukaryotic cell cycle and is a promising target for cancer therapy. The present study was designed to inhibit cdk2 gene expression to induce cell cycle arrest and cell proliferation suppression. Here, we constructed a series of RNA interference (RNAi) plasmids which can successfully express small interference RNA (siRNA) in the transfected human cells. The results showed that the RNAi plasmids containing the coding sequences for siRNAs down-regulated the cdk2 gene expression in human cancer cells at the mRNA and the protein levels. Furthermore, we found that the cell cycle was arrested at G0G1 phases and the cell proliferation was inhibited by different siRNAs. These results demonstrate that suppression of CDK2 activity by RNAi may be an effective strategy for gene therapy in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-E Long
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo 315211, People's Republic of China
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Meyer SE, Waltz SE, Goss KH. The Ron receptor tyrosine kinase is not required for adenoma formation in Apc(Min/+) mice. Mol Carcinog 2009; 48:995-1004. [PMID: 19452510 DOI: 10.1002/mc.20551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Ron receptor tyrosine kinase is overexpressed in approximately half of all human colon cancers. Increased Ron expression positively correlates with tumor progression, and reduction of Ron levels in human colon adenocarcinoma cells reverses their tumorigenic properties. Nearly all colon tumors demonstrate loss of the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) tumor suppressor, an early initiating event, subsequently leading to beta-catenin stabilization. To understand the role of Ron in early stage intestinal tumorigenesis, we generated Apc-mutant (Apc(Min/+)) mice with and without Ron signaling. Interestingly, we report here that significantly more Apc(Min/+) Ron-deficient mice developed higher tumor burden than Apc(Min/+) mice with wild-type Ron. Even though baseline levels of intestinal crypt proliferation were increased in the Apc(Min/+) Ron-deficient mice, loss of Ron did not influence tumor size or histological appearance of the Apc(Min/+) adenomas, nor was beta-catenin localization changed compared to Apc(Min/+) mice with Ron. Together, these data suggest that Ron may be important in normal intestinal tissue homeostasis, but that the expression of this receptor is not required for the formation and growth of adenomas in Apc(Min/+) mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Meyer
- Department of Cancer and Cell Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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He XW, Liu T, Xiao Y, Feng YL, Cheng DJ, Tingting G, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Chen YX, Tingting G, Zhang L. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-C siRNA Delivered via Calcium Carbonate Nanoparticle Effectively Inhibits Lymphangiogenesis and Growth of Colorectal Cancer In Vivo. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2009; 24:249-59. [PMID: 19409048 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2008.0515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen He
- Department of General Surgery, Shaoxing First People's Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xiang Ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Shaoxing First People's Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Ya-Ling Feng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Third Xiang Ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dao-Jin Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shaoxing First People's Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Guo Tingting
- School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liyuan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shaoxing First People's Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guo Tingting
- School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liyuan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Wang J, Rajput A, Kan JLC, Rose R, Liu XQ, Kuropatwinski K, Hauser J, Beko A, Dominquez I, Sharratt EA, Brattain L, Levea C, Sun FL, Keane DM, Gibson NW, Brattain MG. Knockdown of Ron kinase inhibits mutant phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and reduces metastasis in human colon carcinoma. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:10912-22. [PMID: 19224914 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m809551200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal accumulation and activation of receptor tyrosine kinase Ron (recepteur d'origine nantais) has been demonstrated in a variety of primary human cancers. We show that RNA interference-mediated knockdown of Ron kinase in a highly tumorigenic colon cancer cell line led to reduced proliferation as compared with the control cells. Decreased Ron expression sensitized HCT116 cells to growth factor deprivation stress-induced apoptosis as reflected by increased DNA fragmentation and caspase 3 activation. In addition, cell motility was decreased in Ron knockdown cells as measured by wound healing assays and transwell assays. HCT116 cells are heterozygous for gain of function mutant PIK3CA H1047R. Analysis of signaling proteins that are affected by Ron knockdown revealed that phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) activity of the mutant PI3K as well as AKT phosphorylation was substantially reduced in the Ron knockdown cells compared with the control cells. Moreover, we demonstrated in vivo that knockdown of Ron expression significantly reduced lung metastasis as compared with the control cells in the orthotopic models. In summary, our results demonstrate that Ron plays an essential role in maintaining malignant phenotypes of colon cancer cells through regulating mutant PI3K activity. Therefore, targeting Ron kinase could be a potential strategy for colon cancer treatment, especially in patients bearing gain of function mutant PI3K activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA.
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Zhou D, Pan G, Zheng C, Zheng J, Yian L, Teng X. Expression of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase and its association with gastric carcinoma versus normal gastric tissues. BMC Cancer 2008; 8:353. [PMID: 19040718 PMCID: PMC2629483 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-8-353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Accepted: 11/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) is a receptor tyrosine kinase that is activated by a serum-derived, macrophage stimulating protein (MSP) growth factor and is expressed in many malignant tumors. The aim of the present study was to reveal the protein expression profile of RON and its relationship with clinicopathological characteristics of gastric carcinoma and prognosis. METHODS Gastric carcinoma tissue from 98 patients, along with 29 specimens of paraneoplastic tissue and 10 specimens of normal gastric mucosa, were examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Western blot analysis of 19 samples of gastric carcinoma tissue and corresponding paraneoplastic tissue, 8 specimens of normal gastric mucosa, and 2 specimens of normal lymph node samples also detected expression of a splice variant of RON, RONDelta165. All samples obtained were accompanied by patient follow-up data that ranged from 3 to 89 months (median time: 22 months). RESULTS The rate of positive RON expression differed significantly between gastric carcinoma tissues [56.1%, (55/98)] and paraneoplastic tissues [25.6%, (8/29)] (p = 0.007). In contrast, RON expression was absent in normal gastric mucosa samples. RON expression positively correlated with the invasive depth of the tumor (p = 0.019), perigastric lymph nodes metastasis (p = 0.019), and TNM stage (p = 0.001). However, RON expression was independent of tumor growth pattern according to Bormann criteria (p = 0.209), histopathological grade (p = 0.196), and incidence of distant metastasis (p = 0.400). RON expression was not related to a patient's survival rate (p = 0.195). RONDelta165 was strongly expressed in fresh gastric carcinoma tissue, corresponding paraneoplastic tissue, and perigastric lymph nodes with metastatic carcinoma. In contrast, expression of RONDelta165 was not observed in normal gastric mucosa and normal lymph node tissue samples. CONCLUSION RON expression is significant in gastric carcinoma tissue and corresponding paraneoplastic tissue, but is not expressed in normal gastric mucosa. Expression of RONDelta165 was similarly observed in gastric carcinoma tissue and in metastases present in lymph node tissues. We hypothesize that RON and its splice variant play an important role in the occurrence, progression, and metastasis of gastric carcinoma, and therefore may represent a useful marker to evaluate the biological activity of gastric carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Zhou
- Department of oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of College of Medicine of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, PR China.
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Lu Y, Yao HP, Wang MH. Significance of the entire C-terminus in biological activities mediated by the RON receptor tyrosine kinase and its oncogenic variant RON160. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2008; 27:55. [PMID: 18950514 PMCID: PMC2584002 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-27-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/25/2008] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The RON receptor tyrosine kinase regulates epithelial cell homeostasis and tumorigenesis by transducing multiple signals through its functional domains. The present study was to determine the significance of the entire C-terminus in RON or its variant RON160-mediated activities related to cell motility and tumorigenesis. Analysis of protein phosphorylation revealed that elimination of the entire C-terminus significantly impairs the ligand-dependent or independent RON or RON160 phosphorylation and dimerization. Phosphorylation of downstream signaling proteins such as Erk1/2, AKT, and p38 MAP kinase was also diminished in cells expressing the C-terminus-free RON or RON160. These dysfunctional activities were accompanied with the inability of truncated RON or RON160 to mediate cytoplasmic β-catenin accumulation. Functional analysis further demonstrated that truncation of the C-terminus significantly impairs RON or RON160-mediated cell proliferation, morphological changes, and cellular migration. Significantly, oncogenic RON160-mediated tumor growth in athymic nude mice was lost after the deletion of the C-terminus. Thus, the C-terminus is a critical component of the RON receptor. The entire C-terminus is required for RON or RON160-mediated intracellular signaling events leading to various cellular activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China.
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Yang L, Zhang L, Wu Q, Boyd DD. Unbiased screening for transcriptional targets of ZKSCAN3 identifies integrin beta 4 and vascular endothelial growth factor as downstream targets. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:35295-304. [PMID: 18940803 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m806965200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously described the novel zinc finger protein ZKSCAN3 as a new "driver" of colon cancer progression. To investigate the underlying mechanism and because the predicted structural features (tandem zinc fingers) are often present in transcription factors, we hypothesized that ZKSCAN3 regulates the expression of a gene(s) favoring tumor progression. We employed unbiased screening to identify a DNA binding motif and candidate downstream genes. Cyclic amplification and selection of targets using a random oligonucleotide library and ZKSCAN3 protein identified KRDGGG as the DNA recognition motif. In expression profiling, 204 genes were induced 2-29-fold, and 76 genes reduced 2-5-fold by ZKSCAN3. To enrich for direct targets, we eliminated genes under-represented (<3) for the ZKSCAN3 binding motif (identified by CAST-ing) in 2 kilobases of regulatory sequence. Up-regulated putative downstream targets included genes contributing to growth (c-Met-related tyrosine kinase (MST1R), MEK2; the guanine nucleotide exchanger RasGRP2, insulin-like growth factor-2, integrin beta 4), cell migration (MST1R), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor), and proteolysis (MMP26; cathepsin D; PRSS3 (protease serine 3)). We pursued integrin beta 4 (induced up to 6-fold) as a candidate target because it promotes breast cancer tumorigenicity and stimulates phosphatidyl 3-kinase implicated in colorectal cancer progression. ZKSCAN3 overexpression/silencing modulated integrin beta 4 expression, confirming the array analysis. Moreover, ZKSCAN3 bound to the integrin beta 4 promoter in vitro and in vivo, and the integrin beta 4-derived ZKSCAN3 motif fused upstream of a tk-Luc reporter conferred ZKSCAN3 sensitivity. Integrin beta 4 knockdown by short hairpin RNA countered ZKSCAN3-augmented anchorage-independent colony formation. We also demonstrate vascular endothelial growth factor as a direct ZKSCAN3 target. Thus, ZKSCAN3 regulates the expression of several genes favoring tumor progression including integrin beta 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yang
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Zhang Y, Kaplan-Lefko PJ, Rex K, Yang Y, Moriguchi J, Osgood T, Mattson B, Coxon A, Reese M, Kim TS, Lin J, Chen A, Burgess TL, Dussault I. Identification of a novel recepteur d'origine nantais/c-met small-molecule kinase inhibitor with antitumor activity in vivo. Cancer Res 2008; 68:6680-7. [PMID: 18701492 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-07-6782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) is a receptor tyrosine kinase closely related to c-Met. Both receptors are involved in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and there is evidence that both are deregulated in cancer. Receptor overexpression has been most frequently described, but other mechanisms can lead to the oncogenic activation of RON and c-Met. They include activating mutations or gene amplification for c-Met and constitutively active splicing variants for RON. We identified a novel inhibitor of RON and c-Met, compound I, and characterized its in vitro and in vivo activities. Compound I selectively and potently inhibited the kinase activity of RON and c-Met with IC(50)s of 9 and 4 nmol/L, respectively. Compound I inhibited hepatocyte growth factor-mediated and macrophage-stimulating protein-mediated signaling and cell migration in a dose-dependent manner. Compound I was tested in vivo in xenograft models that either were dependent on c-Met or expressed a constitutively active form of RON (RONDelta160 in HT-29). Compound I caused complete tumor growth inhibition in NIH3T3 TPR-Met and U-87 MG xenografts but showed only partial inhibition in HT-29 xenografts. The effect of compound I in HT-29 xenografts is consistent with the expression of the activating b-Raf V600E mutation, which activates the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway downstream of RON. Importantly, tumor growth inhibition correlated with the inhibition of c-Met-dependent and RON-dependent signaling in tumors. Taken together, our results suggest that a small-molecule dual inhibitor of RON/c-Met has the potential to inhibit tumor growth and could therefore be useful for the treatment of patients with cancers where RON and/or c-Met are activated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihong Zhang
- Department of Oncology Research, Amgen, Inc., Thousand Oaks, California 91320, USA
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Wagh PK, Peace BE, Waltz SE. Met-related receptor tyrosine kinase Ron in tumor growth and metastasis. Adv Cancer Res 2008; 100:1-33. [PMID: 18620091 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-230x(08)00001-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Ron receptor is a member of the Met family of cell surface receptor tyrosine kinases and is primarily expressed on epithelial cells and macrophages. The biological response of Ron is mediated by binding of its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor-like protein/macrophage stimulating-protein (HGFL). HGFL is primarily synthesized and secreted from hepatocytes as an inactive precursor and is activated at the cell surface. Binding of HGFL to Ron activates Ron and leads to the induction of a variety of intracellular signaling cascades that leads to cellular growth, motility and invasion. Recent studies have documented Ron overexpression in a variety of human cancers including breast, colon, liver, pancreas, and bladder. Moreover, clinical studies have also shown that Ron overexpression is associated with both worse patient outcomes as well as metastasis. Forced overexpression of Ron in transgenic mice leads to tumorigenesis in both the lung and the mammary gland and is associated with metastatic dissemination. While Ron overexpression appears to be a hallmark of many human cancers, the mechanisms by which Ron induces tumorigenesis and metastasis are still unclear. Several strategies are currently being undertaken to inhibit Ron as a potential therapeutic target; current strategies include the use of Ron blocking proteins, small interfering RNA (siRNA), monoclonal antibodies, and small molecule inhibitors. In total, these data suggest that Ron is a critical factor in tumorigenesis and that inhibition of this protein, alone or in combination with current therapies, may prove beneficial in the treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purnima K Wagh
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558, USA
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Leonis MA, Thobe MN, Waltz SE. Ron-receptor tyrosine kinase in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Future Oncol 2008; 3:441-8. [PMID: 17661719 PMCID: PMC4082960 DOI: 10.2217/14796694.3.4.441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ron-receptor tyrosine kinase has been increasingly recognized for its tumorigenic potential in the last decade. Ron-receptor activation leads to the activation of common receptor tyrosine kinase downstream-signaling pathways, and most prominently in tumor models, activation of MAPK, PI3K and beta-catenin. Numerous experimental models of mammalian tumorigenesis have demonstrated that increased Ron-receptor activity correlates with increased tumorigenesis in a variety of organs of epithelial origin. The evidence for Ron as an oncogene in human tumor biology is growing. The Ron receptor is overexpressed and over activated in a large number of human tumors, and overexpression of Ron correlates with a worse clinical outcome for patients in at least two human cancer states, namely breast and bladder cancer. Several experimental approaches have been demonstrated to successfully block Ron activity and function, and given these convincing data, approaches to block Ron-receptor activity in targeted human cancers should prove to be fruitful in the setting of future clinical research trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike A. Leonis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229
| | - Megan N. Thobe
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558
| | - Susan E. Waltz
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558
- Department of Research, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0558
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Vector-based RNA interference against vascular endothelial growth factor-C inhibits tumor lymphangiogenesis and growth of colorectal cancer in vivo in mice. Chin Med J (Engl) 2008. [DOI: 10.1097/00029330-200803010-00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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Calcium carbonate nanoparticle delivering vascular endothelial growth factor-C siRNA effectively inhibits lymphangiogenesis and growth of gastric cancer in vivo. Cancer Gene Ther 2008; 15:193-202. [PMID: 18202713 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7701122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A nonviral gene carrier, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanoparticle, was evaluated for efficient in vitro and in vivo delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C). The chemically synthesized CaCO3 nanoparticle has a 58 nm diameter and +28.6 mV positive surface charge. It is capable of forming a CaCO3 nanoparticle-DNA complex and transferring DNA into targeted cells with high transfection efficiency while effectively protecting the encapsulated DNA from degradation. Furthermore, the CaCO3 nanoparticle-DNA complex has no obvious cytotoxicity for SGC-7901 cells, while a liposome-DNA complex exhibited measurable cytotoxicity. SGC-7901 cells transfected with a VEGF-C-targeted siRNA via CaCO3 nanoparticle exhibit significantly reduced VEGF-C expression as measured by real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; whereas no decrease in VEGF-C expression is observed in cells treated by control transfection. Transfection of SGC-7901 cells with VEGF-C siRNA via CaCO3 nanoparticle also dramatically suppresses tumor lymphangiogenesis, tumor growth and regional lymph-node metastasis in subcutaneous xenografts. Significant downregulation of VEGF-C messenger RNA expression in a subcutaneous xenograft derived from VEGF-C siRNA-treated SGC-7901 cells was confirmed by real-time PCR as compared to controls. We conclude that CaCO3 nanoparticle is a novel and nonviral system for effective delivery of siRNA for cancer gene therapy.
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Wang MH, Lee W, Luo YL, Weis MT, Yao HP. Altered expression of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase in various epithelial cancers and its contribution to tumourigenic phenotypes in thyroid cancer cells. J Pathol 2008; 213:402-11. [PMID: 17955509 DOI: 10.1002/path.2245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase has been implicated in the pathogenesis of epithelial tumours. The aim of this study was to determine RON expression in various normal epithelial cells and their corresponding tumours by immunohistochemistry. The role of RON in regulating tumourigenic phenotypes was also studied using thyroid cancer cells as a model. RON was almost exclusively expressed at variable levels in normal epithelial cells from the digestive track, lung, kidney, pancreas, liver, breast, bladder, skin, and others. Among 15 types of cancer studied, RON was overexpressed in significant numbers in cancers derived from breast (56%), colon (51%), lung (48), thyroid (42%), skin (37%), bladder (36%), and pancreas (33%). In contrast, limited RON overexpression was observed in cancers from stomach, kidney, brain, liver, ovary, and prostate. Detailed analysis of thyroid tissues showed that RON was hardly detected in normal thyroid cells, moderately expressed in adenoma samples, but overexpressed in about half of papillary and follicular cancer specimens. Overexpression correlated with advanced clinical stage and was associated with lymph node metastasis. In cultured thyroid cancer cells, RON was highly expressed, with constitutive phosphorylation. Activation of RON increased cell growth and migration via the MAP kinase and AKT pathways. Silencing RON expression significantly prevented cell growth and increased cell apoptotic death. These findings show that RON overexpression occurs in a particular group of epithelial cancers. The requirement for RON in sustaining tumourigenic phenotypes suggests that it is a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-H Wang
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China 310003.
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Lu Y, Yao HP, Wang MH. Multiple variants of the RON receptor tyrosine kinase: Biochemical properties, tumorigenic activities, and potential drug targets. Cancer Lett 2007; 257:157-64. [PMID: 17889431 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2007.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2007] [Revised: 08/06/2007] [Accepted: 08/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of the RON (Recepteur d'Origine Nantais) receptor tyrosine kinase, accompanied by generation of multiple splicing or truncated variants, contributes to pathogenesis of epithelial cancers. Currently, six variants including RONDelta170, Delta165, Delta160, Delta155, Delta110, and Delta55 with various deletions or truncations in the extracellular or intracellular regions have been identified. The extracellular sequences contain functional structures such as sema domain, PSI motif, and IPT units. The deletion or truncation results in constitutive phosphorylation and increased kinase activities. Oncogenic RONDelta160, generated by exclusion of the first IPT unit, is a typical example. In contrast, the deletion adjacent to the conserved MET(1254) in the kinase domain converts RON into a dominant negative agent. Among three mechanisms underlying isoform production, the switch from constitutive to alternative pre-mRNA splicing is the major event in producing RON variants in cancer cells. Most of the RON variants have the ability to activate multiple signaling cascades with a different substrate specificity and phosphorylation profile. They regulate cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, which contribute to the invasive phenotype and promote the malignant progression. Thus, determining the pathogenesis of RON variants is critical in understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer initiation and progression. Targeting oncogenic signals elicited by RON or its variants by special antibody or small interfering RNA could provide a novel strategy for the treatment of malignant epithelial cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Institute of Infectious Diseases at First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, People's Republic of China
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Sklan EH, Glenn JS. The Power of silence: application of small interfering RNAs to gastrointestinal diseases. Gastroenterology 2007; 132:2291-5. [PMID: 17570202 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2007.04.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ella H Sklan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94305-5187, USA
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Zinser GM, Leonis MA, Toney K, Pathrose P, Thobe M, Kader SA, Peace BE, Beauman SR, Collins MH, Waltz SE. Mammary-specific Ron receptor overexpression induces highly metastatic mammary tumors associated with beta-catenin activation. Cancer Res 2007; 66:11967-74. [PMID: 17178895 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-2473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Activated growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) play pivotal roles in a variety of human cancers, including breast cancer. Ron, a member of the Met RTK proto-oncogene family, is overexpressed or constitutively active in 50% of human breast cancers. To define the significance of Ron overexpression and activation in vivo, we generated transgenic mice that overexpress a wild-type or constitutively active Ron receptor in the mammary epithelium. In these animals, Ron expression is significantly elevated in mammary glands and leads to a hyperplastic phenotype by 12 weeks of age. Ron overexpression is sufficient to induce mammary transformation in all transgenic animals and is associated with a high degree of metastasis, with metastatic foci detected in liver and lungs of >86% of all transgenic animals. Furthermore, we show that Ron overexpression leads to receptor phosphorylation and is associated with elevated levels of tyrosine phosphorylated beta-catenin and the up-regulation of genes, including cyclin D1 and c-myc, which are associated with poor prognosis in patients with human breast cancers. These studies suggest that Ron overexpression may be a causative factor in breast tumorigenesis and provides a model to dissect the mechanism by which the Ron induces transformation and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glendon M Zinser
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, USA
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Abstract
Various cytokines and soluble growth factors upon interaction with their membrane receptors are responsible for inducing cellular proliferation, differentiation, movement, and protection from anoikis (a planned suicide activated by normal cells in absence of attachment to neighboring cells or extracellular matrix (EMC)). Among those soluble factors a major position is exerted by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) together with its receptor MET and macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP) in cooperation with its receptor RON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Benvenuti
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), University of Turin Medical School, Candiolo (Torino), Italy
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O'Toole JM, Rabenau KE, Burns K, Lu D, Mangalampalli V, Balderes P, Covino N, Bassi R, Prewett M, Gottfredsen KJ, Thobe MN, Cheng Y, Li Y, Hicklin DJ, Zhu Z, Waltz SE, Hayman MJ, Ludwig DL, Pereira DS. Therapeutic implications of a human neutralizing antibody to the macrophage-stimulating protein receptor tyrosine kinase (RON), a c-MET family member. Cancer Res 2006; 66:9162-70. [PMID: 16982759 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-0283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RON is a member of the c-MET receptor tyrosine kinase family. Like c-MET, RON is expressed by a variety of epithelial-derived tumors and cancer cell lines and it is thought to play a functional role in tumorigenesis. To date, antagonists of RON activity have not been tested in vivo to validate RON as a potential cancer target. In this report, we used an antibody phage display library to generate IMC-41A10, a human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) antibody that binds with high affinity (ED50 = 0.15 nmol/L) to RON and effectively blocks interaction with its ligand, macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP; IC50 = 2 nmol/L). We found IMC-41A10 to be a potent inhibitor of receptor and downstream signaling, cell migration, and tumorigenesis. It antagonized MSP-induced phosphorylation of RON, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and AKT in several cancer cell lines. In HT-29 colon, NCI-H292 lung, and BXPC-3 pancreatic cancer xenograft tumor models, IMC-41A10 inhibited tumor growth by 50% to 60% as a single agent, and in BXPC-3 xenografts, it led to tumor regressions when combined with Erbitux. Western blot analyses of HT-29 and NCI-H292 xenograft tumors treated with IMC-41A10 revealed a decrease in MAPK phosphorylation compared with control IgG-treated tumors, suggesting that inhibition of MAPK activity may be required for the antitumor activity of IMC-41A10. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that a RON antagonist and specifically an inhibitory antibody of RON negatively affects tumorigenesis. Another major contribution of this report is an extensive analysis of RON expression in approximately 100 cancer cell lines and approximately 300 patient tumor samples representing 10 major cancer types. Taken together, our results highlight the potential therapeutic usefulness of RON activity inhibition in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M O'Toole
- Department of Tumor Biology, ImClone Systems, Inc, New York, NY 10014, USA
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Wannenes F, Ciafré SA, Niola F, Frajese G, Farace MG. Vector-based RNA interference against vascular endothelial growth factor-A significantly limits vascularization and growth of prostate cancer in vivo. Cancer Gene Ther 2006; 12:926-34. [PMID: 15956982 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference technology is emerging as a very potent tool to obtain a cellular knockdown of a desired gene. In this work we used vector-based RNA interference to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in prostate cancer in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that transduction with a plasmid carrying a small interfering RNA targeting all isoforms of VEGF, dramatically impairs the expression of this growth factor in the human prostate cancer cell line PC3. As a consequence, PC3 cells loose their ability to induce one of the fundamental steps of angiogenesis, namely the formation of a tube-like network in vitro. Most importantly, our "therapeutic" vector is able to impair tumor growth rate and vascularization in vivo. We show that a single injection of naked plasmid in developing neoplastic mass significantly decreases microvessel density in an androgen-refractory prostate xenograft and is able to sustain a long-term slowing down of tumor growth. In conclusion, our results confirm the basic role of VEGF in the angiogenic development of prostate carcinoma, and suggest that the use of our vector-based RNA interference approach to inhibit angiogenesis could be an effective tool in view of future gene therapy applications for prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Wannenes
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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46
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Germano S, Barberis D, Santoro MM, Penengo L, Citri A, Yarden Y, Gaudino G. Geldanamycins trigger a novel Ron degradative pathway, hampering oncogenic signaling. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:21710-21719. [PMID: 16740632 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m602014200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ron, the tyrosine kinase receptor for macrophage-stimulating protein is responsible for proliferation and migration of cells from different tissues. Ron can acquire oncogenic potential by single point mutations in the kinase domain, and dysregulated Ron signaling has been involved in the development of different human cancers. We have previously shown that ligand-activated Ron recruits the negative regulator c-Cbl, which mediates its ubiquitylation and degradation. Here we report that Ron is ubiquitylated also by the U-box E3 ligase C-terminal Hsc70-interacting protein (CHIP), recruited via chaperone intermediates Hsp90 and Hsc70. Gene silencing shows that CHIP activity is necessary to mediate Ron degradation upon cell treatment with Hsp90 inhibitors geldanamycins. The oncogenic Ron(M1254T) receptor escapes from c-Cbl negative regulation but retains a strong association with CHIP. This constitutively active mutant of Ron displays increased sensitivity to geldanamycins, enhanced physical interaction with Hsp90, and more rapid degradation rate. Cell growth and migration, as well as the transforming potential evoked by Ron(M1254T), are abrogated upon Hsp90 inhibition. These data highlight a novel mechanism for Ron degradation and propose Hsp90 antagonists like geldanamycins as suitable pharmacological agents for therapy of cancers where altered Ron signaling is involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Germano
- Department DISCAFF and DFB Center, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro," Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Davide Barberis
- Department DISCAFF and DFB Center, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro," Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Massimo M Santoro
- Department DISCAFF and DFB Center, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro," Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Lorenza Penengo
- Department DISCAFF and DFB Center, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro," Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Ami Citri
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Yosef Yarden
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Giovanni Gaudino
- Department DISCAFF and DFB Center, University of Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro," Novara 28100, Italy.
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Wang MH, Yao HP, Zhou YQ. Oncogenesis of RON receptor tyrosine kinase: a molecular target for malignant epithelial cancers. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2006; 27:641-50. [PMID: 16723080 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7254.2006.00361.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recepteur d'origine nantais (RON) belongs to a subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) with unique expression patterns and biological activities. RON is activated by a serum-derived growth factor macrophage stimulating protein (MSP). The RON gene transcription is essential for embryonic development and critical in regulating certain physiological processes. Recent studies have indicated that altered RON expression contributes significantly to cancer progression and malignancy. In primary tumors, such as colon and breast cancers, overexpression of RON exists in large numbers and is often accompanied by the generation of different splicing variants. These RON variants direct a unique program that controls cell transformation, growth, migration, and invasion, indicating that altered RON expression has the ability to regulate motile/invasive phenotypes. These activities were also seen in transgenic mice, in which targeted expression of RON in lung epithelial cells resulted in numerous tumors with pathological features of human bronchioloalveolar carcinoma. Thus, abnormal RON activation is a pathogenic factor that transduces oncogenic signals leading to uncontrolled cell growth and subsequent malignant transformation. Considering these facts, RON and its variants can be considered as potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Experiments using small interfering RNA and neutralizing monoclonal antibodies demonstrated that suppressing RON expression and activation decreases cancer cell proliferation, increases apoptotic death, prevents tumor formation in nude mice, and reduces malignant phenotypes. Thus, blocking RON expression and activation has clinical significance in reversing malignant phenotypes and controlling tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hai Wang
- Laboratory of Chang-Kung Scholars Program for Tumor Biology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Mocellin S, Costa R, Nitti D. RNA interference: ready to silence cancer? J Mol Med (Berl) 2005; 84:4-15. [PMID: 16283143 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-005-0709-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2005] [Accepted: 07/13/2005] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is considered the most promising functional genomics tool recently developed. As in other medical fields, this biotechnology might revolutionize the approach to dissecting the biology of cancer, ultimately speeding up the discovery pace of novel targets suitable for molecularly tailored antitumor therapies. In addition, preclinical results suggest that RNAi itself might be used as a therapeutic weapon. With the aim of illustrating not only the potentials but also the current limitations of RNAi as a tool in the fight against cancer, here we summarize the physiology of RNAi, discuss the main technical issues of RNAi-based gene silencing, and review some of the most interesting preclinical results obtained so far with its implementation in the field of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Mocellin
- Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padua, Italy.
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49
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Xu XM, Zhou YQ, Wang MH. Mechanisms of cytoplasmic {beta}-catenin accumulation and its involvement in tumorigenic activities mediated by oncogenic splicing variant of the receptor originated from Nantes tyrosine kinase. J Biol Chem 2005; 280:25087-94. [PMID: 15878878 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m414699200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The beta-catenin pathway plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of certain types of cancers. To gain insight into mechanisms by which altered receptor tyrosine kinases regulate cytoplasmic beta-catenin accumulation, the effect of an oncogenic receptor originated from Nantes (RON) variant on beta-catenin accumulation and the role of beta-catenin in RON-mediated tumorigenic activities were studied. In NIH3T3 cells harboring oncogenic variant RONDelta160, increased beta-catenin accumulation with tyrosine phosphorylation and nuclear translocation was observed. Overexpression of RONDelta160 also resulted in increased expression of beta-catenin target genes c-myc and cyclin D1. By analyzing cellular proteins that regulate beta-catenin stabilities, it was found that RONDelta160 activates the protein disheveled (DVL) and inactivates glycogen synthase kinase-3beta by Ser-9 residue phosphorylation. These effects were channeled by RONDelta160-activated PI 3-kinase-AKT pathways that are sensitive to specific inhibitors, such as wortmannin, but not to other chemical inhibitors. Silencing RONDelta160 expression by specific small interfering RNA blocked not only beta-catenin expression but also c-myc and cyclin D1 expression, suggesting that RON expression is required for the activation of the beta-catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, it was found that knockdown of the beta-catenin gene expression by small interfering RNA techniques reduces significantly the RONDelta160-mediated NIH3T3 cell proliferation, focus-forming activities and anchorage-independent growth. Thus, the oncogenic RON variant regulates beta-catenin stabilities through activation of DVL and inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase-3beta. The activated beta-catenin cascade is one of the pathways involved in tumorigenic activities mediated by the oncogenic RON variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Ming Xu
- Laboratory of Cheung Kong Scholars Program for Biomedical Sciences at Institute of Infectious Diseases and Division of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University College of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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