The AKT/IκB kinase pathway promotes angiogenic/metastatic gene expression in colorectal cancer by activating nuclear factor-κB and β-catenin

Research on the Regulatory Mechanism of Ginseng on the Tumor Microenvironment of Colorectal Cancer based on Network Pharmacology and Bioinformatics Validation

BACKGROUND

A network pharmacology study on the biological action of ginseng in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) by regulating the tumor microenvironment (TME).

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the potential mechanism of action of ginseng in the treatment of CRC by regulating TME.

METHODS

This research employed network pharmacology, molecular docking techniques, and bioinformatics validation. Firstly, the active ingredients and the corresponding targets of ginseng were retrieved using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), the Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID), and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Database@Taiwan (TCM Database@Taiwan). Secondly, the targets related to CRC were retrieved using Genecards, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM). Tertiary, the targets related to TME were derived from screening the GeneCards and National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)-Gene. Then the common targets of ginseng, CRC, and TME were obtained by Venn diagram. Afterward, the Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed in the STRING 11.5 database, intersecting targets identified by PPI analysis were introduced into Cytoscape 3.8.2 software cytoHubba plugin, and the final determination of core targets was based on degree value. The OmicShare Tools platform was used to analyze the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the core targets. Autodock and PyMOL were used for molecular docking verification and visual data analysis of docking results. Finally, we verified the core targets by Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) databases in bioinformatics.

RESULTS

A total of 22 active ingredients and 202 targets were identified to be closely related to the TME of CRC. PPI network mapping identified SRC, STAT3, PIK3R1, HSP90AA1, and AKT1 as possible core targets. Go enrichment analysis showed that it was mainly involved in T cell co-stimulation, lymphocyte co-stimulation, growth hormone response, protein input, and other biological processes; KEGG pathway analysis found 123 related signal pathways, including EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, chemokine signaling pathway, VEGF signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, PD-L1 expression and PD-1 checkpoint pathway in cancer, etc. The molecular docking results showed that the main chemical components of ginseng have a stable binding activity to the core targets. The results of the GEPIA database showed that the mRNA levels of PIK3R1 were significantly lowly expressed and HSP90AA1 was significantly highly expressed in CRC tissues. Analysis of the relationship between core target mRNA levels and the pathological stage of CRC showed that the levels of SRC changed significantly with the pathological stage. The HPA database results showed that the expression levels of SRC were increased in CRC tissues, while the expression of STAT3, PIK3R1, HSP90AA1, and AKT1 were decreased in CRC tissues.

CONCLUSION

Ginseng may act on SRC, STAT3, PIK3R1, HSP90AA1, and AKT1 to regulate T cell costimulation, lymphocyte costimulation, growth hormone response, protein input as a molecular mechanism regulating TME for CRC. It reflects the multi-target and multi-pathway role of ginseng in modulating TME for CRC, which provides new ideas to further reveal its pharmacological basis, mechanism of action and new drug design and development.

Zebrafish drug screening identifies Erlotinib as an inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and self-renewal in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway's significance in cancer initiation, progression, and stem cell biology underscores its therapeutic potential. However, the clinical application of Wnt inhibitors remains limited due to challenges posed by off-target effects and complex cross-talk of Wnt signaling with other pathways. In this study, we leveraged a zebrafish model to perform a robust and rapid drug screening of 773 FDA-approved compounds to identify Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors with minimal toxicity. Utilizing zebrafish expressing a Wnt reporter, we identified several drugs that suppressed Wnt signaling without compromising zebrafish development. The efficacy of the top hit, Erlotinib, extended to human cells, where it blocked Wnt/β-catenin signaling downstream of the destruction complex. Notably, Erlotinib treatment reduced self-renewal in human T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia cells, which rely on active β-catenin signaling for maintenance of leukemia-initiating cells. Erlotinib also reduced leukemia-initiating cell frequency and delayed disease formation in zebrafish models. This study underscores zebrafish's translational potential in drug discovery and repurposing and highlights a new use for Erlotinib as a Wnt inhibitor for cancers driven by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Zebrafish Drug Screening Identifies Erlotinib as an Inhibitor of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling and Self-Renewal in T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway's significance in cancer initiation, progression, and stem cell biology underscores its therapeutic potential, yet clinical application of Wnt inhibitors remains limited due to challenges posed by off-target effects and complex crosstalk with other pathways. In this study, we leveraged the zebrafish model to perform a robust and rapid drug screening of 773 FDA-approved compounds to identify Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors with minimal toxicity. Utilizing zebrafish expressing a Wnt reporter, we identified several drugs that suppressed Wnt signaling without compromising zebrafish development. The efficacy of the top hit, Erlotinib, extended to human cells, where it blocked Wnt/β-catenin signaling downstream of the destruction complex. Notably, Erlotinib treatment reduced self-renewal in human T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia cells, which are known to rely on active β-catenin signaling for maintenance of leukemia-initiating cells. Erlotinib also reduced leukemia-initiating cell frequency and delayed disease formation in zebrafish models. This study underscores zebrafish's translational potential in drug discovery and repurposing, and highlights a new use for Erlotinib as a Wnt inhibitor for cancers driven by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Highlights

Zebrafish-based drug screening offers an inexpensive and robust platform for identifying compounds with high efficacy and low toxicity in vivo . Erlotinib, an Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, emerged as a potent and promising Wnt inhibitor with effects in both zebrafish and human cell-based Wnt reporter assays.The identification of Erlotinib as a Wnt inhibitor underscores the value of repurposed drugs in developing targeted therapies to disrupt cancer stemness and improve clinical outcomes.

Biochemical features and therapeutic potential of α-Mangostin: Mechanism of action, medicinal values, and health benefits

α-Mangostin (α-MG) is a natural xanthone obtained from the pericarps of mangosteen. It exhibits excellent potential, including anti-cancer, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and induces apoptosis. α-MG controls cell proliferation by modulating signaling molecules, thus implicated in cancer therapy. It possesses incredible pharmacological features and modulates crucial cellular and molecular factors. Due to its lesser water solubility and pitiable target selectivity, α-MG has limited clinical application. As a known antioxidant, α-MG has gained significant attention from the scientific community, increasing interest in extensive technical and biomedical applications. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems were designed to improve the pharmacological features and efficiency of α-MG. This review is focused on recent developments on the therapeutic potential of α-MG in managing cancer and neurological diseases, with a special focus on its mechanism of action. In addition, we highlighted biochemical and pharmacological features, metabolism, functions, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects and pre-clinical applications of α-MG.

The Ketogenic Diet in Colorectal Cancer: A Means to an End

Some diets, such as high lipid and high glucose diets, are known to increase the risk of colorectal cancer. On the other hand, little is known about diets that prevent colonic carcinogenesis. The ketogenic diet, which is characterized by high fat and very low carbohydrate content, is one such diet. The ketogenic diet decreases the amount of available glucose for tumors and shifts to the production of ketone bodies as an alternative energy source for healthy cells. Cancer cells are unable to use the ketone bodies for energy thus depriving them of the energy needed for progression and survival. Many studies reported the beneficial effects of the ketogenic diet in several types of cancers. Recently, the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate has been found to possess anti-tumor potential in colorectal cancer. Despite its beneficial effects, the ketogenic diet also has some drawbacks, some of which are related to gastrointestinal disorders and weight loss. Thus, studies are being directed at this time towards finding alternatives to following a strict ketogenic diet and supplementing patients with the ketone bodies responsible for its beneficial effects in the hope of overcoming some potential setbacks. This article discusses the mechanism by which a ketogenic diet influences growth and proliferation of tumor cells, it sheds the light on the most recent trials regarding its use as an adjunctive measure to chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, and it explains the limitations of its usage in metastatic patients and the promising role of exogenous ketone supplementation in this setting.

Phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by Casein Kinase 2 Blocks Its Interaction with Hyaluronan, Enabling HA-CD44 Signaling Leading to Increased NSCLC Cell Survival and Cisplatin Resistance

Cisplatin is a platinum agent used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Much remains unknown regarding the basic operative mechanisms underlying cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. In this study, we found that phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by CK2 (P-IGFBP-3) decreased its binding to hyaluronan (HA) but not to IGF-1 and rendered the protein less effective at reducing cell viability or increasing apoptosis than the non-phosphorylated protein with or without cisplatin in the human NSCLC cell lines, A549 and H1299. Our data suggest that blocking CD44 signaling augmented the effects of cisplatin and that IGFBP-3 was more effective at inhibiting HA-CD44 signaling than P-IGFBP-3. Blocking CK2 activity and HA-CD44 signaling increased cisplatin sensitivity and more effectively blocked the PI3K and AKT activities and the phospho/total NFκB ratio and led to increased p53 activation in A549 cells. Increased cell sensitivity to cisplatin was observed upon co-treatment with inhibitors targeted against PI3K, AKT, and NFκB while blocking p53 activity decreased A549 cell sensitivity to cisplatin. Our findings shed light on a novel mechanism employed by CK2 in phosphorylating IGFBP-3 and increasing cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. Blocking phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by CK2 may be an effective strategy to increase NSCLC sensitivity to cisplatin.

TRIM31: A molecule with a dual role in cancer

Tripartite motif (TRIM) 31 is a new member of the TRIM family and functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. Abnormal TRIM31 expression leads to a variety of pathological conditions, such as cancer, innate immunity diseases, sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction, cerebral ischemic injury, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and hypertensive nephropathy. In this review, we comprehensively overview the structure, expression and regulation of TRIM31 in cancer. Moreover, we discuss the dual role of TRIM31 in human cancer, and this dual role may be linked to its involvement in the selective regulation of several pivotal cellular signaling pathways: the p53 tumor suppressor, mTORC1, PI3K-AKT, NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. In addition, we also discuss the emerging role of TRIM31 in innate immunity, autophagy and its growing sphere of influence across multiple human pathologies. Finally, a better understanding of the dual role of TRIM31 in cancer may provide new therapeutic strategies aimed at inhibiting the cancer-promoting effects of TRIM31 without affecting its tumor suppressor effects.

The Expression Pattern of Adhesion G Protein-Coupled Receptor F5 Is Related to Cell Adhesion and Metastatic Pathways in Colorectal Cancer-Comprehensive Study Based on In Silico Analysis

Adhesion G protein-coupled receptor F5 (ADGRF5) is involved inthe neoplastic transformation of some cancer types. However, the significance of ADGRF5 expression signature and the impact of signaling pathways mediated by ADGRF5 during neoplastic transformation of the colon and colorectal cancer (CRC) progression has been poorly examined. Using Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets, we showed that ADGRF5 is overexpressed in the colons of patients with CRC. In line, combined analysis of ADGRF5 expression with clinical characterization revealed an increased expression of ADGRF5 in patients with more advanced stages of CRC compared to patients with early stages of CRC. The Spearman correlation analysis documented numerous genes positively and negatively correlated with the expression pattern of ADGRF5 in the colon of patients with CRC. In the colon of CRC patients, the expression signature of ADGRF5 was associated with genes participating in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt, focal adhesion, cell adhesion molecules, and ribosome signaling pathways. Of note, ADGRF5 expression correlated with the levels of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in the colon of CRC patients. Moreover, we found that CRC patients with high expression of ADGRF5 had a significantly lower probability of overall survival and disease-free survival. In conclusion, our results support the prognostic value of ADGRF5 and its potent therapeutic implication in CRC.

Inhibition of IκB Kinase Is a Potential Therapeutic Strategy to Circumvent Resistance to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibition in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains as an intractable malignancy with limited therapeutic targets. High expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been associated with a poor prognosis of TNBC; however, EGFR targeting has failed with unfavorable clinical outcomes. Here, we performed a combinatorial screening of fifty-five protein kinase inhibitors with the EGFR inhibitor gefitinib in the TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 and identified the IκB kinase (IKK) inhibitor IKK16 as a sensitizer of gefitinib. Cell viability and clonogenic survival assays were performed to evaluate the antiproliferative effects of the gefitinib and IKK16 (Gefitinib + IKK16) combination in TNBC cell lines. Western blot analyses were also performed to reveal the potential mode of action of this combination. In addition, next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis was performed in Gefitinib+IKK16-treated cells. The Gefitinib+IKK16 treatment synergistically reduced cell viability and colony formation of TNBC cell lines such as HS578T, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468. This combination downregulated p-STAT3, p-AKT, p-mTOR, p-GSK3β, and p-RPS6. In addition, p-NF-κB and the total NF-κB were also regulated by this combination. Furthermore, NGS analysis revealed that NF-κB/RELA targets including CCL2, CXCL8, EDN1, IL-1β, IL-6, and SERPINE1 were further reduced and several potential tumor suppressors, such as FABP3, FADS2, FDFT1, SEMA6A, and PCK2, were synergistically induced by the Gefitinib-+IKK16 treatment. Taken together, we identified the IKK/NF-κB pathway as a potential target in combination of EGFR inhibition for treating TNBC.

Aspirin sensitivity of PIK3CA-mutated Colorectal Cancer: potential mechanisms revisited

PIK3CA mutations are amongst the most prevalent somatic mutations in cancer and are associated with resistance to first-line treatment along with low survival rates in a variety of malignancies. There is evidence that patients carrying PIK3CA mutations may benefit from treatment with acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, particularly in the setting of colorectal cancer. In this regard, it has been clarified that Class IA Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K), whose catalytic subunit p110α is encoded by the PIK3CA gene, are involved in signal transduction that regulates cell cycle, cell growth, and metabolism and, if disturbed, induces carcinogenic effects. Although PI3K is associated with pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and signaling, and COX-2 is among the best-studied targets of aspirin, the mechanisms behind this clinically relevant phenomenon are still unclear. Indeed, there is further evidence that the protective, anti-carcinogenic effect of aspirin in this setting may be mediated in a COX-independent manner. However, until now the understanding of aspirin's prostaglandin-independent mode of action is poor. This review will provide an overview of the current literature on this topic and aims to analyze possible mechanisms and targets behind the aspirin sensitivity of PIK3CA-mutated cancers.

Alternative splicing of the human rhomboid family-1 gene RHBDF1 inhibits epidermal growth factor receptor activation

The human rhomboid-5 homolog-1 (RHBDF1) is a multi-transmembrane protein present mainly on the endoplasmic reticulum. RHBDF1 has been implicated in the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–derived cell growth signals and other activities critical to cellular responses to stressful conditions, but details of this activation mechanism are unclear. Here, we report a RHBDF1 mRNA transcript alternative splicing variant X6 (RHBDF1 X6 or RHX6) that antagonizes RHBDF1 activities. We found that while the RHBDF1 gene is marginally expressed in breast tumor-adjacent normal tissues, it is markedly elevated in the tumor tissues. In sharp contrast, the RHX6 mRNA represents the primary RHBDF1 variant in normal breast epithelial cells and tumor-adjacent normal tissues but is diminished in breast cancer cells and tumors. We demonstrate that, functionally, RHX6 acts as an inhibitor of RHBDF1 activities. We show that artificially overexpressing RHX6 in breast cancer cells leads to retarded proliferation, migration, and decreased production of epithelial–mesenchymal transition-related adhesion molecules. Mechanically, RHX6 is able to inhibit the maturation of TACE, a protease that processes pro-TGFα, a pro-ligand of EGFR, and to prevent intracellular transportation of pro-TGFα to the cell surface. Additionally, we show that the production of RHX6 is under the control of the alternative splicing regulator RNA binding motif protein-4 (RBM4). Our findings suggest that differential splicing of the RHBDF1 gene transcript may have a regulatory role in the development of epithelial cell cancers.

Combinatorial Inactivation of Tumor Suppressors Efficiently Initiates Lung Adenocarcinoma with Therapeutic Vulnerabilities

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with lung adenocarcinoma being the most common subtype. Many oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes are altered in this cancer type, and the discovery of oncogene mutations has led to the development of targeted therapies that have improved clinical outcomes. However, a large fraction of lung adenocarcinomas lacks mutations in known oncogenes, and the genesis and treatment of these oncogene-negative tumors remain enigmatic. Here, we perform iterative in vivo functional screens using quantitative autochthonous mouse model systems to uncover the genetic and biochemical changes that enable efficient lung tumor initiation in the absence of oncogene alterations. Generation of hundreds of diverse combinations of tumor suppressor alterations demonstrates that inactivation of suppressors of the RAS and PI3K pathways drives the development of oncogene-negative lung adenocarcinoma. Human genomic data and histology identified RAS/MAPK and PI3K pathway activation as a common feature of an event in oncogene-negative human lung adenocarcinomas. These Onc-negativeRAS/PI3K tumors and related cell lines are vulnerable to pharmacologic inhibition of these signaling axes. These results transform our understanding of this prevalent yet understudied subtype of lung adenocarcinoma.

SIGNIFICANCE

To address the large fraction of lung adenocarcinomas lacking mutations in proto-oncogenes for which targeted therapies are unavailable, this work uncovers driver pathways of oncogene-negative lung adenocarcinomas and demonstrates their therapeutic vulnerabilities.

The Potential for Natural Products to Overcome Cancer Drug Resistance by Modulation of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

The acquisition of resistance and ultimately disease relapse after initial response to chemotherapy put obstacles in the way of cancer therapy. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a biologic process that epithelial cells alter to mesenchymal cells and acquire fibroblast-like properties. EMT plays a significant role in cancer metastasis, motility, and survival. Recently, emerging evidence suggested that EMT pathways are very important in making drug-resistant involved in cancer. Natural products are gradually emerging as a valuable source of safe and effective anticancer compounds. Natural products could interfere with the different processes implicated in cancer drug resistance by reversing the EMT process. In this review, we illustrate the molecular mechanisms of EMT in the emergence of cancer metastasis. We then present the role of natural compounds in the suppression of EMT pathways in different cancers to overcome cancer cell drug resistance and improve tumor chemotherapy. HighlightsDrug-resistance is one of the obstacles to cancer treatment.EMT signaling pathways have been correlated to tumor invasion, metastasis, and drug-resistance.Various studies on the relationship between EMT and resistance to chemotherapy agents were reviewed.Different anticancer natural products with EMT inhibitory properties and drug resistance reversal effects were compared.

The PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis in colorectal cancer: Oncogenic alterations, non-coding RNAs, therapeutic opportunities, and the emerging role of nanoparticles

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the deadliest human malignancies worldwide. Several molecular pathways have been demonstrated to be involved in the initiation and development of CRC which among them, the overactivation of the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTOR axis is of importance. The current review aims to unravel the mechanisms by which the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway affects CRC progression; and also, to summarize the original data obtained from international research laboratories on the oncogenic alterations and polymorphisms affecting this pathway in CRC. Besides, we provide a special focus on the regulatory role of noncoding RNAs targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in this malignancy. Questions on how this axis is involved in the inhibition of apoptosis, in the induction of drug resistance, and the angiogenesis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and metastasis are also responded. We also discussed the PI3K/Akt pathway-associated prognostic and predictive biomarkers in CRC. In addition, we provide a general overview of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibition whether by chemical-based drugs or by natural-based medications in the context of CRC, either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic agents; however, those treatments might have life-threatening side effects and toxicities. To the best of our knowledge, the current review is one of the first ones highlighting the emerging roles of nanotechnology to overcome challenges related to CRC therapy in the hope that providing a promising platform for the treatment of CRC.

Using BioPAX-Parser (BiP) to enrich lists of genes or proteins with pathway data

BACKGROUND

Pathway enrichment analysis (PEA) is a well-established methodology for interpreting a list of genes and proteins of interest related to a condition under investigation. This paper aims to extend our previous work in which we introduced a preliminary comparative analysis of pathway enrichment analysis tools. We extended the earlier work by providing more case studies, comparing BiP enrichment performance with other well-known PEA software tools.

METHODS

PEA uses pathway information to discover connections between a list of genes and proteins as well as biological mechanisms, helping researchers to overcome the problem of explaining biological entity lists of interest disconnected from the biological context.

RESULTS

We compared the results of BiP with some existing pathway enrichment analysis tools comprising Centrality-based Pathway Enrichment, pathDIP, and Signaling Pathway Impact Analysis, considering three cancer types (colorectal, endometrial, and thyroid), for a total of six datasets (that is, two datasets per cancer type) obtained from the The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. We measured the similarities between the overlap of the enrichment results obtained using each couple of cancer datasets related to the same cancer.

CONCLUSION

As a result, BiP identified some well-known pathways related to the investigated cancer type, validated by the available literature. We also used the Jaccard and meet-min indices to evaluate the stability and the similarity between the enrichment results obtained from each couple of cancer datasets. The obtained results show that BiP provides more stable enrichment results than other tools.

Differences in the Relative Abundance of ProBDNF and Mature BDNF in A549 and H1299 Human Lung Cancer Cell Media

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophin family, has been linked to several human malignancies and shown to promote tumorigenesis. The purpose of this study was to explore the relative abundance of pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF) and mature BDNF (mBDNF) in A549 (p53 wild-type) and H1299 (p53-null) lung cancer cell media. Higher levels of proBDNF were detected in the media of A549 cells than in H1299 cell media. Using inhibitors, we found that the levels of proBDNF and mBDNF in the media are likely regulated by PI3K, AKT, and NFκB. However, the largest change in these levels resulted from MMP2/9 inhibition. Blocking p53 function in A549 cells resulted in increased mBDNF and decreased proBDNF, suggesting a role for p53 in regulating these levels. The ratio of proBDNF/mBDNF was not affected by MMP2 knockdown but increased in the media of both cell lines upon knockdown of MMP9. Downregulation of either MMP2 or MMP9 by siRNA showed that MMP9 siRNA treatment of either A549 or H1299 cells resulted in decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis, an effect diminished upon the same treatment with proBDNF immunodepleted media, suggesting that MMP9 regulates the cytotoxic effects induced by proBDNF in lung cancer cells.

Regulation of amyloid-β levels by matrix metalloproteinase-2/9 (MMP2/9) in the media of lung cancer cells

In this study, we set out to identify regulators of intact amyloid-β40/42 (Aβ) levels in A549 (p53 wild-type) and H1299 (p53-null) lung cancer cell media. Higher Aβ levels were detected in the media of A549 than H1299 cells without or with treatment with 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) and/or the anti-CD44 antibody (5F12). Using inhibitors, we found that PI3K, AKT, and NFκB are likely involved in regulating Aβ levels in the media. However, increased Aβ levels that more closely resembled those found upon 4-MU co-treatment resulted from MMP2/9 inhibition, suggesting that MMP2/9 maybe the main contributors to regulation of Aβ levels in the media. Differences in Aβ levels might be accounted for, in part, by p53 since blocking p53 function in A549 cells resulted in decreased Aβ levels, increased MMP2/9 levels, increased PI3K/AKT activities and the phospho/total NFκB ratio. Using siRNA targeted against MMP2 or MMP9, we found increased Aβ levels in the media, however, MMP2 knockdown led to Aβ levels closely mimicking those detected by co-treatment with 4-MU. Cell viability or apoptosis upon treatment with either MMP2 or MMP9 siRNA along with Aβ immunodepletion, showed that MMP2 is the predominant regulator of the cytotoxic effects induced by Aβ in lung cancer cells.

The Stemness-High Human Colorectal Cancer Cells Promote Angiogenesis by Producing Higher Amounts of Angiogenic Cytokines via Activation of the Egfr/Akt/Nf-κB Pathway

Purpose: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for cancer metastasis by stimulating tumor angiogenesis via various mechanisms. To elucidate the potential of the stemness-high human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells (i.e., CRCSCs) in activating angiogenesis, effects of the GATA6-overexpressing HCT-116 and HT-29 human CRC clones established previously by us in promoting the angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were examined. Methods: Angiogenesis-promoting effects (i.e., migration, invasion, DNA synthesis, and tube formation) in HUVECs of the conditioned media (CM) from various human CRC clones were analyzed. MMP activities were assessed using a zymography assay. Western blotting and selective inhibitors were used to dissect the signaling pathway involved. IHC was used to examine the vascular density in tumor xenografts. Results: We found that the conditioned media (CM) collected from the GATA6-overexpressing clones enhanced angiogenesis of HUVECs more effectively which might be attributed partly to a higher MMP-9 production by HUVECs. Subsequently, elevated levels of IL-8 and VEGF-A were detected in the CM whose tube formation-enhancing activities were abolished by the co-treatment with either a VEGFR2 inhibitor or an IL-8 neutralizing antibody. Interestingly, increased production of these cytokines in the GATA6-overexpressing clones was due to an EGFR/AKT-mediated activation of NF-κB. Furthermore, not only were the levels of CD31 and endomucin but also the blood vessel density was much higher in the xenograft tumors grown from these clones. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that human CRCSCs promote a stronger angiogenesis by producing higher amounts of angiogenic factors through activation of the EGFR/AKT/NF-κB pathway.

CK2 Down-Regulation Increases the Expression of Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype Factors through NF-κB Activation

Senescent cells secrete pro-inflammatory factors, and a hallmark feature of senescence is senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The aim of this study is to investigate the protein kinase CK2 (CK2) effects on SASP factors expression in cellular senescence and organism aging. Here CK2 down-regulation induced the expression of SASP factors, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3, through the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling in MCF-7 and HCT116 cells. CK2 down-regulation-mediated SIRT1 inactivation promoted the degradation of inhibitors of NF-κB (IκB) by activating the AKT-IκB kinase (IKK) axis and increased the acetylation of lysine 310 on RelA/p65, an important site for the activity of NF-κB. kin-10 (the ortholog of CK2β) knockdown increased zmp-1, -2, and -3 (the orthologs of MMP) expression in nematodes, but AKT inhibitor triciribine and SIRT activator resveratrol significantly abrogated the increased expression of these genes. Finally, antisense inhibitors of miR-186, miR-216b, miR-337-3p, and miR-760 suppressed CK2α down-regulation, activation of the AKT-IKK-NF-κB axis, RelA/p65 acetylation, and expression of SASP genes in cells treated with lipopolysaccharide. Therefore, this study indicated that CK2 down-regulation induces the expression of SASP factors through NF-κB activation, which is mediated by both activation of the SIRT1-AKT-IKK axis and RelA/p65 acetylation, suggesting that the mixture of the four miRNA inhibitors can be used as anti-inflammatory agents.

Angiogenesis-Related Functions of Wnt Signaling in Colorectal Carcinogenesis

Simple Summary

Angiogenesis belongs to the most clinical characteristics of colorectal cancer (CRC) and is strongly linked to the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The most prominent factors stimulating constitutive activation of this pathway, and in consequence angiogenesis, are genetic alterations (mainly mutations) concerning APC and the β-catenin encoding gene (CTNNB1), detected in a large majority of CRC patients. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is involved in the basic types of vascularization (sprouting and nonsprouting angiogenesis), vasculogenic mimicry as well as the formation of mosaic vessels. The number of known Wnt/β-catenin signaling components and other pathways interacting with Wnt signaling, regulating angiogenesis, and enabling CRC progression continuously increases. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the role of the Wnt/Fzd/β-catenin signaling pathway in the process of CRC angiogenesis, aiming to improve the understanding of the mechanisms of metastasis as well as improvements in the management of this cancer.

Abstract

Aberrant activation of the Wnt/Fzd/β-catenin signaling pathway is one of the major molecular mechanisms of colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. On the other hand, one of the most common clinical CRC characteristics include high levels of angiogenesis, which is a key event in cancer cell dissemination and distant metastasis. The canonical Wnt/β-catenin downstream signaling regulates the most important pro-angiogenic molecules including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family members, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and chemokines. Furthermore, mutations of the β-catenin gene associated with nuclear localization of the protein have been mainly detected in microsatellite unstable CRC. Elevated nuclear β-catenin increases the expression of many genes involved in tumor angiogenesis. Factors regulating angiogenesis with the participation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling include different groups of biologically active molecules including Wnt pathway components (e.g., Wnt2, DKK, BCL9 proteins), and non-Wnt pathway factors (e.g., chemoattractant cytokines, enzymatic proteins, and bioactive compounds of plants). Several lines of evidence argue for the use of angiogenesis inhibition in the treatment of CRC. In the context of this paper, components of the Wnt pathway are among the most promising targets for CRC therapy. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the role of the Wnt/Fzd/β-catenin signaling pathway in the process of CRC angiogenesis, aiming to improve the understanding of the mechanisms of metastasis as well as improvements in the management of this cancer.

Genomic analysis of biomarkers related to the prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common childhood cancer and is a major cause of morbidity among adults with hematologic malignancies. Several novel genetic alterations, which target critical cellular pathways, including alterations in lymphoid development-regulating genes, tumor suppressors and oncogenes that contribute to leukemogenesis, have been identified. The present study aimed to identify molecular markers associated with the occurrence and poor prognosis of AML. Information on these molecular markers may facilitate prediction of clinical outcomes. Clinical data and RNA expression profiles of AML specimens from The Cancer Genome Atlas database were assessed. Mutation data were analyzed and mapped using the maftools package in R software. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, Reactome and Gene Ontology analyses were performed using the clusterProfiler package in R software. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed using the survminer package in R software. The expression data of RNAs were subjected to univariate Cox regression analysis, which demonstrated that the mutation loads varied considerably among patients with AML. Subsequently, the expression data of mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs/miR) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were subjected to univariate Cox regression analysis to determine the the 100 genes most associated with the survival of patients with AML, which revealed 48 mRNAs and 52 miRNAs. The top 1,900 mRNAs (P<0.05) were selected through enrichment analysis to determine their functional role in AML prognosis. The results demonstrated that these molecules were involved in the transforming growth factor-β, SMAD and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 fusion mutant signaling pathways. Survival analysis indicated that patients with AML, with high MYH15, TREML2, ATP13A2, MMP7, hsa-let-7a-2-3p, hsa-miR-362-3p, hsa-miR-500a-5p, hsa-miR-500b-5p, hsa-miR-362-5p, LINC00987, LACAT143, THCAT393, THCAT531 and KHCAT230 expression levels had a shorter survival time compared with those without these factors. Conversely, a high KANSL1L expression level in patients was associated with a longer survival time. The present study determined genetic mutations, mRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs and signaling pathways involved in AML, in order to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of the development and recurrence of this disease.

DNAH10 mutation correlates with cisplatin sensitivity and tumor mutation burden in small-cell lung cancer

Chemotherapies based on platinum have been the standard first-line treatment for patients with small-cell lung cancer(SCLC) in the past years. However, the progression of patients occurs mostly due to rapid development of resistance to chemotherapy. In addition, the mechanisms involved in development of cisplatin-resistance in SCLC remain undetermined. Here, we analyzed whole-exome sequencing(WES) datasets from Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer(GDSC, N=55) and WES data and overall survival(OS) from a published cohort(N=101) to search for cisplatin-resistant target genes and genes associated with poor prognosis. We use our cohort(NCT03162705) as the validation set. We applied single sample gene set enrichment analysis(ssGSEA) to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of cisplatin-resistance. DNAH10 mutations in SCLC was significantly associated with cisplatin-resistance(P=0.0350), poor OS(HR:3.445;P=0.00035) and worse progression-free survival (PFS)(P=0.0142). ssGSEA showed that the negative regulation of FGFR, the SPRY regulation of FGF, and the positive regulation of noncanonical WNT and PI3K/AKT/IKK signaling pathways are differentially up- or downregulated in DNAH10-mutated cell lines. A higher TMB was observed in DNAH10-mutated cell lines. Taken together, DNAH10 mutations may have a potential value in prediction of cisplatin resistance and poor survival in SCLC. Moreover, DNAH10 mutations may have a positive correlation with high TMB in SCLC.

Disruption of VEGF Mediated Flk-1 Signaling Leads to a Gradual Loss of Vessel Health and Cardiac Function During Myocardial Infarction: Potential Therapy With Pellino-1

Background

The present study demonstrates that the ubiquitin E3 ligase, Pellino‐1 (Peli1), is an important angiogenic molecule under the control of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2/Flk‐1. We have previously reported increased survivability of ischemic skin flap tissue by adenovirus carrying Peli1 (Ad‐Peli1) gene therapy in Flk‐1^+/− mice.

Methods and Results

Two separate experimental groups of mice were subjected to myocardial infarction (MI) followed by the immediate intramyocardial injection of adenovirus carrying LacZ (Ad‐LacZ) (1×10⁹ pfu) or Ad‐Peli1 (1×10⁹ pfu). Heart tissues were collected for analyses. Compared with wild‐type (WTMI) mice, analysis revealed decreased expressions of Peli1, phosphorylated (p‐)Flk‐1, p‐Akt, p‐eNOS, p‐MK2, p‐IκBα, and NF‐κB and decreased vessel densities in Flk‐1^+/− mice subjected to MI (Flk‐1^+/−MI). Mice (CD1) treated with Ad‐Peli1 after the induction of MI showed increased β‐catenin translocation to the nucleus, connexin 43 expression, and phosphorylation of Akt, eNOS, MK2, and IκBα, that was followed by increased vessel densities compared with the Ad‐LacZ–treated group. Echocardiography conducted 30 days after surgery showed decreased function in the Flk1^+/−MI group compared with WTMI, which was restored by Ad‐Peli1 gene therapy. In addition, therapy with Ad‐Peli1 stimulated angiogenic and arteriogenic responses in both CD1 and Flk‐1^+/− mice following MI. Ad‐Peli1 treatment attenuated cardiac fibrosis in Flk‐1^+/−MI mice. Similar positive results were observed in CD1 mice subjected to MI after Ad‐Peli1 therapy.

Conclusion

Our results show for the first time that Peli1 plays a unique role in salvaging impaired collateral blood vessel formation, diminishes fibrosis, and improves myocardial function, thereby offering clinical potential for therapies in humans to mend a damaged heart following MI.

Synergistic Effect of Epigenetic Inhibitors Decitabine and Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid on Colorectal Cancer In vitro

Background:

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is a common cause of oncological deaths worldwide. Alterations of the epigenetic landscape constitute a well-documented hallmark of CRC phenotype. The accumulation of aberrant DNA methylation and histone acetylation plays a major role in altering gene activity and driving tumor onset, progression and metastasis.

Objective:

In this study, we evaluated the effect of Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid (SAHA), a panhistone deacetylase inhibitor, and Decitabine (DAC), a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, either alone or in combination, on Caco-2 human colon cancer cell line in vitro.

Results:

Our results showed that SAHA and DAC, separately, significantly decreased cell proliferation, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of Caco-2 cell line. On the other hand, the sequential treatment of Caco-2 cells, first with DAC and then with SAHA, induced a synergistic anti-tumor effect with a significant enhancement of growth inhibition and apoptosis induction in Caco-2 cell line as compared to cells treated with either drug alone. Furthermore, the combination therapy upregulates protein expression levels of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax, p53 and cytochrome c, downregulates the expression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein and increases the cleavage of procaspases 8 and 9; this suggests that the combination activates apoptosis via both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that the synergistic anti-neoplastic activity of combined SAHA and DAC involves an effect on PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our results provide evidence for the profound anti-tumorigenic effect of sequentially combined SAHA and DAC in the CRC cell line and offer new insights into the corresponding underlined molecular mechanism.

Aberrantly expressed miR-188-5p promotes gastric cancer metastasis by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common human cancers with the high rate of recurrence, metastasis and mortality. Aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with invasion and metastasis in various human cancers. Recently, miR-188-5p has been indicated as an oncogene in GC since it promotes GC cell growth and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains to be fully defined.

Methods

Using Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM) screening, we identified that miR-188-5p is associated with overall survival and lymph node metastasis in patients with GC. The functional impact of miR-188-5p on GC metastasis was validated using in vitro and in vivo assays. The regulatory function of miR-188-5p on Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation through directly targeting PTEN was proven using quantitative real-time PCR, western blot analysis, a dual-luciferase assay, a Transwell assay, and immunofluorescence. Immunohistochemical analyses further confirmed the clinical significance of miR-188-5p in GC.

Results

MiR-188-5p diminishes tumor suppressor PTEN expression, and further increases phospho-Ser9 of GSK3β to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling in GC. Consequently, miR-188-5p enhanced the migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo, whereas inhibition of miR-188-5p had the opposite effects. Moreover, miR-188-5p was negatively correlated with PTEN expression but positively correlated with nuclear β-catenin staining in GC samples.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed a model of the miR-188-5p-PTEN-β-catenin axis in GC, which mediates the constitutive activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and promotes tumor metastasis, inferring that miR-188-5p is a potential therapeutic target to treat GC.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5731-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prevention of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in colorectal carcinoma by regulation of the E-cadherin-β-catenin-vinculin axis

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is compulsory for metastatic dissemination and is stimulated by TGF-β. Although targeting EMT has significant therapeutic potential, very few pharmacological agents have been shown to exert anti-metastatic effects. BI-69A11, a competitive Akt inhibitor, displays anti-tumor activity toward melanoma and colon carcinoma. This study provides molecular and biochemical insights into the effects of BI-69A11 on EMT in colon carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo. BI-69A11 inhibited metastasis-associated cellular migration, invasion and adhesion by inhibiting the Akt-β-catenin pathway. The underlying mechanism of BI-69A11-mediated inhibition of EMT included suppression of nuclear transport of β-catenin and diminished phosphorylation of β-catenin, which was accompanied by enhanced E-cadherin-β-catenin complex formation at the plasma membrane. Additionally, BI-69A11 caused increased accumulation of vinculin in the plasma membrane, which fortified focal adhesion junctions leading to inhibition of metastasis. BI-69A11 downregulated activation of the TGF-β-induced non-canonical Akt/NF-κB pathway and blocked TGF-β-induced enhanced expression of Snail causing restoration of E-cadherin. Overall, this study enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanism of BI-69A11-induced reversal of EMT in colorectal carcinoma cells in vitro, in vivo and in TGF-β-induced model systems.

Piper cubeba L. Methanol Extract Has Anti-Inflammatory Activity Targeting Src/Syk via NF-κB Inhibition

Piper cubeba L. is a plant in the Piperaceae family that is generally found in tropical countries and acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity has not been fully investigated. In this study, we elucidated the anti-inflammatory mechanism by focusing on NF-κB signaling, which is considered a prototypical inflammatory signaling pathway in both innate and adaptive immune functions. Cellular activity and the molecular target of Pc-ME were identified in macrophage RAW264.7 cells and HEK293T cells by assessing NO production, cytokine expression by RT-PCR, luciferase gene reporter assay, and protein regulation in cytoplasm by Western blot upon NF-κB activation. Pc-ME reduced NO production without any cell toxicity; inhibited expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as iNOS and IL-6; downregulated NF-κB activation mediated by both MyD88 and TRIF; and diminished the phosphorylation of IκBα, IKKα/β, Akt, p85, Src, and Syk. Pc-ME inhibited Syk and Src autophosphorylation during overexpression in HEK cells, which confirmed our hypothesis that Syk and Src were signaling targets of Pc-ME. These findings indicate that Piper cubeba L. has anti-inflammatory activity by targeting Src/Syk in the NF-κB pathway.

Akt1 inhibition promotes breast cancer metastasis through EGFR-mediated β-catenin nuclear accumulation

Background

Knockdown of Akt1 promotes Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in breast cancer cells. However, the mechanisms are not completely understood.

Methods

Western blotting, immunofluorescence, luciferase assay, real time PCR, ELISA and Matrigel invasion assay were used to investigate how Akt1 inhibition promotes breast cancer cell invasion in vitro. Mouse model of lung metastasis was used to measure in vivo efficacy of Akt inhibitor MK2206 and its combination with Gefitinib.

Results

Knockdown of Akt1 stimulated β-catenin nuclear accumulation, resulting in breast cancer cell invasion. β-catenin nuclear accumulation induced by Akt1 inhibition depended on the prolonged activation of EGFR signaling pathway in breast cancer cells. Mechanistic experiments documented that knockdown of Akt1 inactivates PIKfyve via dephosphorylating of PIKfyve at Ser³¹⁸ site, resulting in a decreased degradation of EGFR signaling pathway. Inhibition of Akt1 using MK2206 could induce an increase in the expression of EGFR and β-catenin in breast cancer cells. In addition, MK2206 at a low dosage enhance breast cancer metastasis in a mouse model of lung metastasis, while an inhibitor of EGFR tyrosine kinase Gefitinib could potentially suppress breast cancer metastasis induced by Akt1 inhibition.

Conclusion

EGFR-mediated β-catenin nuclear accumulation is critical for Akt1 inhibition-induced breast cancer metastasis.

WNT and NOTCH signaling pathways as activators for epidermal growth factor receptor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common histological type of esophageal cancer, with a poor prognosis. Deregulation of WNT and NOTCH signaling pathways is important in ESCC progression, which can be due to either malfunction of their components or crosstalk with other pathways. Therefore, identification of new crosstalk between such pathways may be effective to introduce new strategies for targeted therapy of cancer. A correlation study was performed to assess the probable interaction between growth factor receptors and WNT/NOTCH pathways via the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Musashi1 (MSI1), respectively.

Methods

Levels of MSI1/EGFR mRNA expression in tumor tissues from 48 ESCC patients were compared to their corresponding normal tissues using real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

There was a significant correlation between EGFR and MSI1 expression (p = 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant correlation between EGFR/MSI1 expression and grade of tumor differentiation (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

This study confirms a direct correlation between MSI1 and EGFR and may support the important role of MSI1 in activation of EGFR through NOTCH/WNT pathways in ESCC.

Glycyrrhizic acid from licorice down-regulates inflammatory responses via blocking MAPK and PI3K/Akt-dependent NF-κB signalling pathways in TPA-induced skin inflammation

Glycyrrhizinic acid (GA), a principal component derived from licorice which is used extensively as a natural sweetener and traditional folk herbal medicine, is attracting considerable attention because of its broad range of bioactivities. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of GA on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-mediated skin inflammation has not been elucidated. Herein, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of GA by using a TPA-induced mouse ear model. It was indicated that GA, applied topically onto mouse ears, effectively inhibited the TPA-mediated expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in a dose-dependent manner, respectively. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that GA down-regulated the expressions of IκBα and p65 and blocked the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65 in TPA-induced mouse skin. Moreover, GA significantly inhibited the TPA-mediated activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, which are upstream of nuclear factor-kB (NF-κB). Taken together, these results indicated that GA, being of natural origin, may be a potential agent for preventing inflammatory diseases.

Chemoproteomic Discovery of a Ritanserin-Targeted Kinase Network Mediating Apoptotic Cell Death of Lung Tumor Cells

Ritanserin was tested in the clinic as a serotonin receptor inverse agonist but recently emerged as a novel kinase inhibitor with potential applications in cancer. Here, we discovered that ritanserin induced apoptotic cell death of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells via a serotonin-independent mechanism. We used quantitative chemical proteomics to reveal a ritanserin-dependent kinase network that includes key mediators of lipid [diacylglycerol kinase α, phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase β] and protein [feline encephalitis virus-related kinase, rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (RAF)] signaling, metabolism [eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2-α kinase 4], and DNA damage response [tousled-like kinase 2] to broadly kill lung tumor cell types. Whereas ritanserin exhibited polypharmacology in NSCLC proteomes, this compound showed unexpected specificity for c-RAF in the SCLC subtype, with negligible activity against other kinases mediating mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. Here we show that ritanserin blocks c-RAF but not B-RAF activation of established oncogenic signaling pathways in live cells, providing evidence in support of c-RAF as a key target mediating its anticancer activity. Given the role of c-RAF activation in RAS-mutated cancers resistant to clinical B-RAF inhibitors, our findings may have implications in overcoming resistance mechanisms associated with c-RAF biology. The unique target landscape combined with acceptable safety profiles in humans provides new opportunities for repositioning ritanserin in cancer.

NF-κB pathways in the development and progression of colorectal cancer

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) has been widely implicated in the development and progression of cancer. In colorectal cancer (CRC), NF-κB has a key role in cancer-related processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The role of NF-κB in CRC is complex, owed to the cross talk with other signaling pathways. Although there is sufficient evidence gained from cell lines and animal models that NF-κB is involved in cancer-related processes, because of a lack of studies in human tissue, the clinical evidence of its importance is limited in patients with CRC. This review summarizes evidence relating to how NF-κB is involved in the development and progression of CRC and comments on future work to be carried out.

Adapting AlphaLISA high throughput screen to discover a novel small-molecule inhibitor targeting protein arginine methyltransferase 5 in pancreatic and colorectal cancers

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) are notoriously challenging for treatment. Hyperactive nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is a common culprit in both cancers. Previously, we discovered that protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) methylated and activated NF-κB. Here, we show that PRMT5 is highly expressed in PDAC and CRC. Overexpression of PRMT5 promoted cancer progression, while shRNA knockdown showed an opposite effect. Using an innovative AlphaLISA high throughput screen, we discovered a lead compound, PR5-LL-CM01, which exhibited robust tumor inhibition effects in both cancers. An in silico structure prediction suggested that PR5-LL-CM01 inhibits PRMT5 by binding with its active pocket. Importantly, PR5-LL-CM01 showed higher anti-tumor efficacy than the commercial PRMT5 inhibitor, EPZ015666, in both PDAC and CRC. This study clearly highlights the significant potential of PRMT5 as a therapeutic target in PDAC and CRC, and establishes PR5-LL-CM01 as a promising basis for new drug development in the future.

Synthetic α-mangostin dilaurate strongly suppresses wide-spectrum organ metastasis in a mouse model of mammary cancer

We previously reported that, in a mouse model of mammary cancer, α‐mangostin alone exhibits anti‐metastatic properties. To enhance this anti‐metastatic effect, we examined the efficacy of synthetic α‐mangostin dilaurate (MGD), prepared by adding lauric acid to α‐mangostin, in the same experimental system wherein mice bearing mammary tumors are exposed to dietary MGD at 0, 2000 and 4000 ppm. Lauric acid has a high propensity for lymphatic absorption, which is the most common pathway of initial dissemination of many solid malignancies. Both mammary tumor volumes and wide‐spectrum organ metastasis were markedly reduced at 2000 and 4000 ppm: furthermore, survival in the 4000‐ppm group was significantly greater than in control mice. Apoptosis in mammary carcinomas was also significantly increased in the 4000‐ppm group, whereas blood microvessel density and lymphatic vessel invasion were markedly reduced. In real‐time PCR analyses of tumor samples, increased p21 and decreased Pcna expression were observed with 4000 ppm but values were not statistically significant when compared to expression in control tumors. However, exposure to 4000 ppm significantly decreased expression of phospho‐Akt (Ser473/Thr308) as compared to the control, indicating a role in the anti‐tumorigenic effects of MGD. These findings suggest that MGD may be useful for adjuvant therapy and chemoprevention and that conjugated medium‐chain fatty acids may enhance the efficacy of certain chemotherapeutic agents.

Eupatilin suppresses the allergic inflammatory response in vitro and in vivo

INTRODUCTION

Eupatilin, a pharmacologically active ingredient found in Artemisia asiatica, has been reported to have anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities. However, molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-allergic properties are not yet clear. In this study, we investigated the effects of eupatilin on allergic inflammation in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-stimulated human mast cells and a compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock model.

METHODS

Cytokine assays, histamine assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, western blot analysis and compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock model were used in this study.

RESULTS

Eupatilin significantly suppresses the expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6 in vitro and in vivo. In addition, eupatilin inhibits nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation by regulating the phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα via the Akt/IKK(α/β) pathway. Eupatilin treatment also attenuates the phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK MAPKs. Furthermore, eupatilin blocked anaphylactic shock and decreased the release of histamine.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-allergic inflammation may involve the expression and production of regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines via Akt/IKK(α/β) and MAPK activation of NF-κB. On the basis of these data, eupatilin is a potential candidate for the treatment of allergic diseases.

Catalytically defective receptor protein tyrosine kinase PTK7 enhances invasive phenotype by inducing MMP-9 through activation of AP-1 and NF-κB in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells

Protein tyrosine kinase 7 (PTK7), a member of the catalytically defective receptor protein tyrosine kinase family, is upregulated in various cancers including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here, we have explored the molecular mechanism of PTK7-dependent invasiveness in ESCC cells. PTK7 knockdown reduced gelatin degradation and MMP-9 secretion in cultures of ESCC TE-10 cells, and showed reduced levels of MMP9 mRNA using real-time RT-PCR and luciferase reporter assays. PTK7 knockdown decreased not only phosphorylation of NF-κB, IκB, ERK, and JNK, but also nuclear localization of NF-κB and AP-1 consisting of c-Fos and c-Jun. Activation of AP-1 and NF-κB requires PTK7-mediated activation of tyrosine kinases, including Src. In addition, NF-κB activation by PTK7 involves the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. PTK7-mediated upregulation of MMP9 was also observed in other ESCC cell lines and in three-dimensional cultures of TE-10 cells. Moreover, MMP-9 expression positively correlated with PTK7 expression in ESCC tumor tissue. These findings demonstrate that PTK7 upregulates MMP9 through activation of AP-1 and NF-κB and, thus increases invasive properties of ESCC cells.

Effects of cullin 4B on the proliferation and invasion of human gastric cancer cells

The major aim of the present study was to explore the effects of cullin 4B (CUL4B) on the proliferation and invasion of human gastric cancer cells. Gastric tumor tissues and paired adjacent non-tumor tissues were obtained from 21 gastric cancer patients, and gastric cancer cell lines (AGS, MGC-803, KATO-III, MKN-45, SGC-7901, BGC-823 and MKN-74) were cultured. BGC-823 cells were transfected with CUL4B small interfering (si)RNA or control siRNA. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed to detect the mRNA expression of CUL4B. Western blot analysis was performed to measure the protein levels of Wnt, β-catenin, glutathione synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, caspase-3 and cyclin E. MTT and Transwell assays were performed to examine cell proliferation and invasion following CUL4B knockdown. In addition, the effect of CUL4B knockdown on the cell cycle and apoptosis of BGC-823 cells was evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The results indicated that compared with the adjacent non-tumor tissues and a normal gastric epithelial cell line, gastric cancer tissues and cell lines exhibited significantly higher expression of CUL4B. Knockdown of CUL4B in gastric cancer cells suppressed cell proliferation, caused G1 arrest and inhibited cell invasion. Silencing of CUL4B also resulted in decreased Wnt and β-catenin expression, but increased expression of GSK-3β, caspase-3 and cyclin E. These results indirectly demonstrate that CUL4B enhances the proliferation and invasion abilities of gastric cancer cells by upregulating the constituent factors Wnt and β-catenin, as well as by negatively regulating the mRNA and protein expression of GSK-3β, caspase-3 and cyclin E. The potential mechanism of CUL4B highlighted in the present study may be helpful for the treatment of patients with gastric cancer.

Withaferin-A suppress AKT induced tumor growth in colorectal cancer cells

The oncogenic activation of AKT gene has emerged as a key determinant of the aggressiveness of colorectal cancer (CRC); hence, research has focused on targeting AKT signaling for the treatment of advanced stages of CRC. In this study, we explored the anti-tumorigenic effects of withaferin A (WA) on CRC cells overexpressing AKT in preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) models. Our results indicated that WA, a natural compound, resulted in significant inhibition of AKT activity and led to the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration and invasion by downregulating the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in CRC cells overexpressing AKT. The oral administration of WA significantly suppressed AKT-induced aggressive tumor growth in a xenograft model. Molecular analysis revealed that the decreased expression of AKT and its downstream pro-survival signaling molecules may be responsible for tumor inhibition. Further, significant inhibition of some important EMT markers, i.e., Snail, Slug, β-catenin and vimentin, was observed in WA-treated human CRC cells overexpressing AKT. Significant inhibition of micro-vessel formation and the length of vessels were evident in WA-treated tumors, which correlated with a low expression of the angiogenic marker RETIC. In conclusion, the present study emphasizes the crucial role of AKT activation in inducing cell proliferation, angiogenesis and EMT in CRC cells and suggests that WA may overcome AKT-induced cell proliferation and tumor growth in CRC.

AKT and its related molecular feature in aged mice skin

Previous studies suggest that Akt signaling promotes tissue regeneration and decreased Akt activities are found in aged tissues. However, this study finds that the expression and activation levels of Akt in the mice skin increased with age. Additionally, the expression levels of Pten, p16, p21 and p53 also elevated with increased age. Immuno-fluorescence analysis showed that Akt phosphorylation found in the epidermal cells (with increased levels of NF-κB activation) were also found. In vivo inhibition of AKT activity result in reduced NF-κB activation. Our results suggest that increasing Akt/ NF-κB is a crucial mediator of skin aging, which can increase the susceptibility of cell transformation.

Vinexin β Ablation Inhibits Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice by Inactivating the Akt-Nuclear Factor κB Inflammatory Axis

Background

Vinexin β is a novel adaptor protein that regulates cellular adhesion, cytoskeletal reorganization, signal transduction, and transcription; however, the exact role that vinexin β plays in atherosclerosis remains unknown.

Methods and Results

Immunoblot analysis showed that vinexin β expression is upregulated in the atherosclerotic lesions of both patients with coronary heart disease and hyperlipemic apolipoprotein E–deficient mice and is primarily localized in macrophages indicated by immunofluorescence staining. The high‐fat diet–induced double‐knockout mice exhibited lower aortic plaque burdens than apolipoprotein E^−/− littermates and decreased macrophage content. Vinexin β deficiency improved plaque stability by attenuating lipid accumulation and increasing smooth muscle cell content and collagen. Moreover, the bone marrow transplant experiment demonstrated that vinexin β deficiency exerts atheroprotective effects in hematopoietic cells. Consistent with these changes, the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines were downregulated in vinexin β^−/− apolipoprotein E^−/− mice, whereas the anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophage markers were upregulated. The immunohistochemical staining and in vitro experiments showed that deficiency of vinexin β inhibited the accumulation of monocytes and the migration of macrophages induced by tumor necrosis factor α–stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells as well as macrophage proliferation. Finally, the inhibitory effects exerted by vinexin β deficiency on foam cell formation, nuclear factor κB activation, and inflammatory cytokine expression were largely reversed by constitutive Akt activation, whereas the increased expression of the nuclear factor κB subset promoted by adenoviral vinexin β was dramatically suppressed by inhibition of AKT.

Conclusions

Vinexin β deficiency attenuates atherogenesis primarily by suppressing vascular inflammation and inactivating Akt–nuclear factor κB signaling. Our data suggest that vinexin β could be a therapeutic target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Regulation of vascular smooth muscle phenotype by cross-regulation of krüppel-like factors

Regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype plays an essential role in many cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, we provide evidence that krüppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) is essential for tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)-induced phenotypic conversion of VSMC obtained from thoracic aorta from 4-week-old SD rats. Stimulation of the contractile phenotype of VSMCs with TNFα significantly reduced the VSMC marker gene expression and KLF8. The gene expression of KLF8 was blocked by TNFα stimulation in an ERK-dependent manner. The promoter region of KLF8 contained putative Sp1, KLF4, and NFκB binding sites. Myocardin significantly enhanced the promoter activity of KLF4 and KLF8. The ectopic expression of KLF4 strongly enhanced the promoter activity of KLF8. Moreover, silencing of Akt1 significantly attenuated the promoter activity of KLF8; conversely, the overexpression of Akt1 significantly enhanced the promoter activity of KLF8. The promoter activity of SMA, SM22α, and KLF8 was significantly elevated in the contractile phenotype of VSMCs. The ectopic expression of KLF8 markedly enhanced the expression of SMA and SM22α concomitant with morphological changes. The overexpression of KLF8 stimulated the promoter activity of SMA. Stimulation of VSMCs with TNFα enhanced the expression of KLF5, and the promoter activity of KLF5 was markedly suppressed by KLF8 ectopic expression. Finally, the overexpression of KLF5 suppressed the promoter activity of SMA and SM22α, thereby reduced the contractility in response to the stimulation of angiotensin II. These results suggest that cross-regulation of KLF family of transcription factors plays an essential role in the VSMC phenotype.

Inhibitory Effect of Methyl 2-(4'-Methoxy-4'-oxobutanamide) Benzoate from Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) on the Inflammatory Paracrine Loop between Macrophages and Adipocytes

The interaction between macrophages and adipocytes is known to aggravate inflammation of the adipose tissue, leading to decreased insulin sensitivity. Hence, attenuation of the inflammatory paracrine loop between macrophages and adipocytes is deemed essential to ameliorate insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus type 2. Methyl 2-(4'-methoxy-4'-oxobutanamide) benzoate (compound 1), a newly isolated compound from Jerusalem srtichoke (JA), has not been biologically characterized yet. Here, we investigated whether JA-derived compound 1 attenuates the inflammatory cycle between RAW 264.7 macrophages and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Compound 1 suppressed the inflammatory response of RAW 264.7 cells to lipopolysaccharide through decreased secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Moreover, the mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, MCP-1, and Rantes and MAPK pathway activation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, incubated in macrophage-conditioned media, were inhibited. These findings suggest an anti-inflammatory effect of a newly extracted compound against adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance.

BCL-3 expression promotes colorectal tumorigenesis through activation of AKT signalling

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer remains the fourth most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Here we investigate the role of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) co-factor B-cell CLL/lymphoma 3 (BCL-3) in promoting colorectal tumour cell survival.

DESIGN

Immunohistochemistry was carried out on 47 tumour samples and normal tissue from resection margins. The role of BCL-3/NF-κB complexes on cell growth was studied in vivo and in vitro using an siRNA approach and exogenous BCL-3 expression in colorectal adenoma and carcinoma cells. The question whether BCL-3 activated the AKT/protein kinase B (PKB) pathway in colorectal tumour cells was addressed by western blotting and confocal microscopy, and the ability of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) to suppress BCL-3 expression was also investigated.

RESULTS

We report increased BCL-3 expression in human colorectal cancers and demonstrate that BCL-3 expression promotes tumour cell survival in vitro and tumour growth in mouse xenografts in vivo, dependent on interaction with NF-κB p50 or p52 homodimers. We show that BCL-3 promotes cell survival under conditions relevant to the tumour microenvironment, protecting both colorectal adenoma and carcinoma cells from apoptosis via activation of the AKT survival pathway: AKT activation is mediated via both PI3K and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, leading to phosphorylation of downstream targets GSK-3β and FoxO1/3a. Treatment with 5-ASA suppressed BCL-3 expression in colorectal cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study helps to unravel the mechanism by which BCL-3 is linked to poor prognosis in colorectal cancer; we suggest that targeting BCL-3 activity represents an exciting therapeutic opportunity potentially increasing the sensitivity of tumour cells to conventional therapy.

Intelectin 1 suppresses tumor progression and is associated with improved survival in gastric cancer

Recent evidence shows the emerging roles of intelectin 1 (ITLN1), a secretory lectin, in human cancers. Our previous studies have implicated the potential roles of ITLN1 in the aggressiveness of gastric cancer. Herein, we investigated the functions, downstream targets, and clinical significance of ITLN1 in the progression of gastric cancer. We demonstrated that ITLN1 increased the levels of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α), resulting in suppression of nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity of β-catenin in gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, ITLN1 attenuated the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B, a transcription factor repressing the HNF4α expression, in gastric cancer cells through inactivating the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/Ikappa B kinase signaling. Gain- and loss-of-function studies demonstrated that ITLN1 suppressed the growth, invasion, and metastasis of gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. In addition, restoration of HNF4α expression prevented the gastric cancer cells from ITLN1-mediated changes in these biological features. In clinical gastric cancer tissues, HNF4α expression was positively correlated with that of ITLN1. Patients with high ITLN1 or HNF4α expression had greater survival probability. Taken together, these data indicate that ITLN1 suppresses the progression of gastric cancer through up-regulation of HNF4α, and is associated with improved survival in patients with gastric cancer.

Overexpression of KiSS-1 reduces colorectal cancer cell invasion by downregulating MMP-9 via blocking PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal pathway

Metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) depends critically on MMP-9. KiSS-1 is a human malignant melanoma metastasis-suppressor gene. Thus, the interaction between MMP-9 and KiSS-1 has drawn considerable attention in recent years. In the present study, it was hypothesized that KiSS-1 gene could repress the metastatic potential of colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting the expression of MMP-9. Stable transfection of KiSS-1 specific siRNA and KiSS-1 expression vector in human CRC cell line HCT-116 was achieved by lentivirus infection. Moreover, the cell proliferation, invasiveness, and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8 method, transwell experiment, and fluorescence activated cell sorter, respectively. We also investigated the expression of MMP-9, PI3K, Akt, pAKt, and NF-кB subunit p65 using western blotting. KiSS-1 overexpression significantly decreased the cell proliferation and invasiveness of HCT-119 cells, while apoptosis was enhanced. The result of western blotting showed that synthesis of MMP-9, PI3K, p65, and phosphorylation of Akt were significantly blocked by overexpression of KiSS-1. Concatenated treatment of KiSS-1 overexpression vector with PI3K and Akt agonists attenuated the effect of KiSS-1 on the biological activity of CRC cells and also released the expression of MMP-9, PI3K, p65, and phosphorylation of Akt from the influence of overexpression of KiSS-1. Overexpression of KiSS-1 suppressed the invasiveness of CRC cells, and the gene exerted its function by reducing the expression of MMP-9 via blocking of tge PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway.

Everolimus restrains the paracrine pro-osteoclast activity of breast cancer cells

Background

Breast cancer (BC) cells secrete soluble factors that accelerate osteoclast (OC) differentiation, leading to the formation of osteolytic bone metastases. In the BOLERO-2 trial, BC patients with bone involvement who received Everolimus had a delayed tumor progression in the skeleton as a result of direct OC suppression through the inhibition of mTOR, in addition to the general suppressor effect on the cancer cells. Here, we explored the effect of Everolimus, as mTOR inhibitor, on the pro-OC paracrine activity of BC cells.

Methods

Both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 BC cell lines were incubated with sub-lethal amounts of Everolimus, and their conditioned supernatants were assessed for their capacity to differentiate OCs from PBMC from healthy donors, as well as to interfere with their bone resorbing activity shown on calcium phosphate slices. We also measured the mRNA levels of major pro-OC factors in Everolimus-treated BC cells and their secreted levels by ELISA, and evaluated by immunoblotting the phosphorylation of transcription factors enrolled by pathways cooperating with the mTOR inhibition. Finally, the in vivo pro-OC activity of these cells was assessed in SCID mice after intra-tibial injections.

Results

We found that Everolimus significantly inhibited the differentiation of OCs and their in vitro bone-resorbing activity, and also found decreases of both mRNA and secreted pro-OC factors such as M-CSF, IL-6, and IL-1β, whose lower ELISA levels paralleled the defective phosphorylation of NFkB pathway effectors. Moreover, when intra-tibially injected in SCID mice, Everolimus-treated BC cells produced smaller bone metastases than the untreated cells.

Conclusions

mTOR inhibition in BC cells leads to a suppression of their paracrine pro-OC activity by interfering with the NFkB pathway; this effect may also account for the delayed progression of bone metastatic disease observed in the BOLERO-2 trial.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-015-1717-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Crosstalk between the TNF and IGF pathways enhances NF-κB activation and signaling in cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The receptor for type I insulin like growth factor (IGF-IR) and NFκB signaling both play essential roles in cancer initiation and progression but relatively little is known about possible crosstalk between these pathways. We have shown that the IGF-IR could rescue lung and colon carcinoma cells from Tumor necrosis factor -α (ΤΝF-α)-induced apoptosis by activating autocrine, pro-survival IL-6/gp130/STAT3 signaling, suggesting that IGF-IR expression could alter NF-κB signaling that is required for transcriptional activation of IL-6.

OBJECTIVE

Here we sought to determine if and how IGF-IR signaling promotes TNF-α-induced NFκB activation.

DESIGN

We used lung carcinoma M-27 and colon carcinoma MC-38 cells to investigate IGF-IR-induced changes to the IKK/IκBα/NFκB pathway by a combination of qPCR, Western blotting, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, a reporter assay and gene silencing.

RESULTS

We show that in the presence of increased IGF-IR expression or activation levels, nuclear translocation of NFκB in response to TNF-α was enhanced in lung and colon carcinoma cells and this was due to accelerated phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα. This effect was AKT-dependent and mediated via mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 3(MEKK3) activation.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that ligand-mediated activation of IGF-IR alters NF-κB signaling in cancer cells in an AKT/MEKK3-dependent manner and that temporal aspects of NF-κB activation can regulate the cytokine profile of the tumor cells and thereby, their interaction with the microenvironment.