1
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Bakiri L, Hasenfuss SC, Guío-Carrión A, Thomsen MK, Hasselblatt P, Wagner EF. Liver cancer development driven by the AP-1/c-Jun~Fra-2 dimer through c-Myc. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2404188121. [PMID: 38657045 PMCID: PMC11067056 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2404188121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death. HCC incidence is on the rise, while treatment options remain limited. Thus, a better understanding of the molecular pathways involved in HCC development has become a priority to guide future therapies. While previous studies implicated the Activator Protein-1 (AP-1) (Fos/Jun) transcription factor family members c-Fos and c-Jun in HCC formation, the contribution of Fos-related antigens (Fra-) 1 and 2 is unknown. Here, we show that hepatocyte-restricted expression of a single chain c-Jun~Fra-2 protein, which functionally mimics the c-Jun/Fra-2 AP-1 dimer, results in spontaneous HCC formation in c-Jun~Fra-2hep mice. Several hallmarks of human HCC, such as cell cycle dysregulation and the expression of HCC markers are observed in liver tumors arising in c-Jun~Fra-2hep mice. Tumorigenesis occurs in the context of mild inflammation, low-grade fibrosis, and Pparγ-driven dyslipidemia. Subsequent analyses revealed increased expression of c-Myc, evidently under direct regulation by AP-1 through a conserved distal 3' enhancer. Importantly, c-Jun~Fra-2-induced tumors revert upon switching off transgene expression, suggesting oncogene addiction to the c-Jun~Fra-2 transgene. Tumors escaping reversion maintained c-Myc and c-Myc target gene expression, likely due to increased c-Fos. Interfering with c-Myc in established tumors using the Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal motif inhibitor JQ-1 diminished liver tumor growth in c-Jun~Fra-2 mutant mice. Thus, our data establish c-Jun~Fra-2hep mice as a model to study liver tumorigenesis and identify the c-Jun/Fra-2-Myc interaction as a potential target to improve HCC patient stratification and/or therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latifa Bakiri
- Laboratory Genes and Disease, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Genes, Development and Disease Group, National Cancer Research Centre, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sebastian C. Hasenfuss
- Genes, Development and Disease Group, National Cancer Research Centre, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Guío-Carrión
- Genes, Development and Disease Group, National Cancer Research Centre, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Martin K. Thomsen
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Aarhus, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Hasselblatt
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Erwin F. Wagner
- Laboratory Genes and Disease, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory Genes and Disease, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria
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2
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Liu Y, Sui A, Sun J, Wu Y, Liu F, Yang Y. c-Jun-mediated JMJD6 restoration enhances resistance of liver cancer to radiotherapy through the IL-4-activated ERK pathway. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1392-1405. [PMID: 37070787 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is widely used in the treatment of liver cancer, but the efficacy can be limited by radioresistance. In this study, we attempt to delineate the possible molecular mechanism of c-Jun-regulated Jumonji domain-containing protein 6/interleukin 4/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (JMJD6/IL-4/ERK) axis in radioresistance of liver cancer. The expression of c-Jun was quantified in liver cancer tissues and cell lines, and the results indicated that c-Jun was upregulated in liver cancer tissues and cells. We further illustrated the role of c-Jun following gain- and loss-of-function strategies in malignant phenotypes of liver cancer cells. It was established that c-Jun elevated JMJD6 expression and augmented the malignancy and aggressiveness of liver cancer cells. The in vivo effects of c-Jun on radioresistance in liver cancer were validated in nude mice, in response to IL-4 knockdown or the ERK pathway inhibitor, PD98059. In the presence of JMJD6 upregulation, the expression of IL-4 was elevated in mice with liver cancer, which enhanced the radiation resistance. Moreover, knockdown of IL-4 inactivated the ERK pathway, thereby reversing the radiation resistance caused by overexpressed JMJD6 in tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, c-Jun augments the radiation resistance in liver cancer by activating the ERK pathway through JMJD6-upregulated IL-4 transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Baoding First Central Hospital, Baoding, People's Republic of China
| | - Aixia Sui
- The First Department of Oncology, Hebei Provincial People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jirui Sun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology & Early Diagnosis of Tumor (Hebei province), Baoding First Central Hospital, Baoding, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuquan Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Health Science Center, Hebei University, Baoding, People's Republic of China
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3
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Seydi H, Nouri K, Rezaei N, Tamimi A, Hassan M, Mirzaei H, Vosough M. Autophagy orchestrates resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 161:114487. [PMID: 36963361 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment resistance is one of the major barriers for therapeutic strategies in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Many studies have indicated that chemotherapy and radiotherapy induce autophagy machinery (cell protective autophagy) in HCC cells. In addition, many experiments report a remarkable crosstalk between treatment resistance and autophagy pathways. Thus, autophagy could be one of the key factors enabling tumor cells to hinder induced cell death after medical interventions. Therefore, extensive research on the molecular pathways involved in resistance induction and autophagy have been conducted to achieve the desired therapeutic response. The key molecular pathways related to the therapy resistance are TGF-β, MAPK, NRF2, NF-κB, and non-coding RNAs. In addition, EMT, drug transports, apoptosis evasion, DNA repair, cancer stem cells, and hypoxia could have considerable impact on the hepatoma cell's response to therapies. These mechanisms protect tumor cells against various treatments and many studies have shown that each of them is connected to the molecular pathways of autophagy induction in HCC. Hence, autophagy inhibition may be an effective strategy to improve therapeutic outcome in HCC patients. In this review, we further highlight how autophagy leads to poor response during treatment through a complex molecular network and how it enhances resistance in primary liver cancer. We propose that combinational regimens of approved HCC therapeutic protocols plus autophagy inhibitors may overcome drug resistance in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homeyra Seydi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Kosar Nouri
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Niloufar Rezaei
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Atena Tamimi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Moustapha Hassan
- Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran; Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
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4
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Zhou L, Mao LH, Li X, Wang QL, Chen SY, Chen ZJ, Lei J, Liu HT, Liao SQ, Ran T, Li XQ, Zhou ZH, He S. Transcriptional regulation of NDUFA4L2 by NFIB induces sorafenib resistance by decreasing reactive oxygen species in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:793-805. [PMID: 36369883 PMCID: PMC9986074 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is one a first-line therapeutic drugs for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, only 30% of patients benefit from sorafenib due to drug resistance. We and other groups have revealed that nuclear factor I B (NFIB) regulates liver regeneration and carcinogenesis, but its role in drug resistance is poorly known. We found that NFIB was more upregulated in sorafenib-resistant SMMC-7721 cells compared to parental cells. NFIB knockdown not only sensitized drug-resistant cells to sorafenib but also inhibited the proliferation and invasion of these cells. Meanwhile, NFIB promoted the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells in vitro and facilitated tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Knocking down NFIB synergetically inhibited tumor growth with sorafenib. Mechanically, gene expression profiling and subsequent verification experiments proved that NFIB could bind with the promoter region of a complex I inhibitor NDUFA4L2 and promote its transcription. Transcriptional upregulation of NDUFA4L2 by NFIB could thus inhibit the sorafenib-induced reactive oxygen species accumulation. Finally, we found that NFIB was highly expressed in HCC tissues, and high NFIB expression level was associated with macrovascular invasion, advanced tumor stage, and poor prognosis of HCC patients (n = 156). In summary, we demonstrated that NFIB could transcriptionally upregulate NDUFA4L2 to enhance both intrinsic and acquired sorafenib resistance of HCC cells by reducing reactive oxygen species induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin-Hong Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Sichuan, China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing-Liang Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Si-Yuan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Ji Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong-Tao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Si-Qi Liao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Ran
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Hang Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Song He
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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5
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Investigation of Anti-Liver Cancer Activity of the Herbal Drug FDY003 Using Network Pharmacology. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:5765233. [PMID: 36118098 PMCID: PMC9481369 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5765233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Globally, liver cancer (LC) is the sixth-most frequently occurring and the second-most fatal malignancy, responsible for 0.83 million deaths annually. Although the application of herbal drugs in cancer therapies has increased, their anti-LC activity and relevant mechanisms have not been fully studied from a systems perspective. To address these issues, we conducted a system-perspective network pharmacological investigation into the activity and mechanisms underlying the action of the herbal drug. FDY003 reduced the viability of human LC treatment. FDY003 reduced the viability of human LC cells and elevated their chemosensitivity. There were a total of 16 potential bioactive chemical components in FDY003 and they had 91 corresponding targets responsible for the pathological processes in LC. These FDY003 targets were functionally involved in regulating the survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of LC cells. Additionally, we found that FDY003 may target key signaling cascades connected to diverse LC pathological mechanisms, namely, PI3K-Akt, focal adhesion, IL-17, FoxO, MAPK, and TNF pathways. Overall, this study contributed to integrative mechanistic insights into the anti-LC potential of FDY003.
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6
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Li FJ, Long HZ, Zhou ZW, Luo HY, Xu SG, Gao LC. System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis: An important antioxidant system for the ferroptosis in drug-resistant solid tumor therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:910292. [PMID: 36105219 PMCID: PMC9465090 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.910292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation of ferroptosis is a new effective way to treat drug-resistant solid tumors. Ferroptosis is an iron-mediated form of cell death caused by the accumulation of lipid peroxides. The intracellular imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant due to the abnormal expression of multiple redox active enzymes will promote the produce of reactive oxygen species (ROS). So far, a few pathways and regulators have been discovered to regulate ferroptosis. In particular, the cystine/glutamate antiporter (System Xc−), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and glutathione (GSH) (System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis) plays a key role in preventing lipid peroxidation-mediated ferroptosis, because of which could be inhibited by blocking System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis. This review aims to present the current understanding of the mechanism of ferroptosis based on the System Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis in the treatment of drug-resistant solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Jiao Li
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
| | - Hui-Zhi Long
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
| | - Zi-Wei Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
| | - Hong-Yu Luo
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
| | - Shuo-Guo Xu
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
| | - Li-Chen Gao
- School of Pharmacy, University of South China, Phase I Clinical Trial Centre, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Chen Gao,
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7
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Rescuing SLAMF3 Expression Restores Sorafenib Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells through the Induction of Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040910. [PMID: 35205659 PMCID: PMC8869973 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acquired resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients results in poor prognosis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the major mechanism implicated in the resistance to sorafenib. We have reported the tumor suppressor role of SLAMF3 (signaling lymphocytic activation molecules family 3) in HCC progression and highlighted its implication in controlling the MRP-1 transporter activity. These data suggest the implication of SLAMF3 in sorafenib resistance mechanisms. Methods: We evaluated the resistance to sorafenib in Huh-7 cells treated with progressive doses (Res cells). We investigated the link between acquired resistance to sorafenib and SLAMF3 expression by flow cytometry and Western blot methods. Furthermore, we analyzed the EMT and the stem cell potential of cells resistant to sorafenib. Results: Sorafenib resistance was confirmed in Res cells by analyzing the cell viability in the presence of sorafenib. The mesenchymal transition, in Res cells, was confirmed by high migratory index and the expression of EMT antigens. Interestingly, we found that loss of SLAMF3 expression corresponded to sorafenib-resistant phenotypes. The overexpression of SLAMF3 reversed EMT, decreased metastatic potential and inhibited mTOR/ERK1/2 in Res cells. Conclusions: We propose that rescuing SLAMF3 expression in resistant cells could represent a potential therapeutic strategy to enhance sorafenib efficacy in HCC patients.
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8
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Yang Y, Ma Y, Yuan M, Peng Y, Fang Z, Wang J. Identifying the biomarkers and pathways associated with hepatocellular carcinoma based on an integrated analysis approach. Liver Int 2021; 41:2485-2498. [PMID: 34033190 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. The molecular mechanism underlying HCC is still unclear. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to explore the genes, pathways and their interactions involved in HCC. METHODS We analysed the gene expression datasets corresponding to 488 samples from 10 studies on HCC and identified the genes differentially expressed in HCC samples. Then, the genes were compared against Phenolyzer and GeneCards to screen those potentially associated with HCC. The features of the selected genes were explored by mapping them onto the human protein-protein interaction network, and a subnetwork related to HCC was constructed. Hub genes in this HCC specific subnetwork were identified, and their relevance with HCC was investigated by survival analysis. RESULTS We identified 444 differentially expressed genes (177 upregulated and 267 downregulated) related to HCC. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that pathways like p53 signalling and chemical carcinogenesis were eriched in HCC genes. In the subnetwork related to HCC, five disease modules were detected. Further analysis identified six hub genes from the HCC specific subnetwork. Survival analysis showed that the expression levels of these genes were negatively correlated with survival rate of HCC patients. CONCLUSIONS Based on a systems biology framework, we identified the genes, pathways, as well as the disease specific network related to HCC. We also found novel biomarkers whose expression patterns were correlated with progression of HCC, and they could be candidates for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuequn Ma
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng Yuan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yonglin Peng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhonghai Fang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ju Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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9
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Guan X, Wu Y, Zhang S, Liu Z, Fan Q, Fang S, Qiao S, Sun F, Liang C. Activation of FcRn Mediates a Primary Resistance Response to Sorafenib in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:709343. [PMID: 34421602 PMCID: PMC8379008 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.709343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is the first-line therapeutic option for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Many patients exhibit a primary resistance (PR) response after initial treatment. In previous studies, compared to acquired resistance, the mechanism of PR is unclear. The present study aimed to evaluate the response of patient samples to sorafenib by patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and the differences at the transcriptome level between the sorafenib PR group and the sorafenib sensitive group were analyzed by single-cell sequencing technology. A specific cell cluster may be differentiated by the liver bud hepatic cells, and the JUN transcription factors in this cell cluster were highly activated. The albumin is secreted by other cell clusters, and the cluster stimulates the FcRn complex receptor to activate the HIF pathway and cell proliferation, resulting in a poor response to sorafenib. These findings are validated by both cell communication analysis and experiments. Thus, the current studies provided a novel approach for the treatment of sorafenib-resistant HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yi Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chongyang Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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10
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Dahiya M, Dureja H. Sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma: potential molecular targets and resistance mechanisms. J Chemother 2021; 34:286-301. [PMID: 34291704 DOI: 10.1080/1120009x.2021.1955202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most widespread typical therapy-resistant, unresectable type of malignant solid tumour with a high death rate constituting huge medical concern. Sorafenib is a small molecule oral multi-target kinase potent inhibitor that acts by suppressing/blocking the multiplication of the tumour cells, angiogenesis, and encouraging apoptosis of the tumour cells. Though, the precise mechanism of tumour cell death induction by sorafenib is yet under exploration. Furthermore, genetic heterogeneity plays a critical role in developing sorafenib resistance, which leads the way to identify the need for predictive biomarkers responsible for drug resistance. Therefore, it is essential to find out the fundamental resistance mechanisms to expand therapeutic plans. The authors summarize the molecular concepts of resistance, progression, potential molecular targets, HCC management therapies, and discussion on the advancements expected in the coming future, inclusive of biomarker-driven treatment strategies, which may provide the prospects to design innovative therapeutically targeted strategies for the HCC treatment and the clinical implementation of emerging targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Dahiya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Harish Dureja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
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11
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Zeng Z, Lu Q, Liu Y, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Hu L, Shi Z, Tu Y, Xiao Z, Xu Q, Huang D. Effect of the Hypoxia Inducible Factor on Sorafenib Resistance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:641522. [PMID: 34307125 PMCID: PMC8292964 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.641522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib a multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is the first-line drug for treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mechanistically, it suppresses tumor angiogenesis, cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis. Although sorafenib effectively prolongs median survival rates of patients with advanced HCC, its efficacy is limited by drug resistance in some patients. In HCC, this resistance is attributed to multiple complex mechanisms. Previous clinical data has shown that HIFs expression is a predictor of poor prognosis, with further evidence demonstrating that a combination of sorafenib and HIFs-targeted therapy or HIFs inhibitors can overcome HCC sorafenib resistance. Here, we describe the molecular mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance in HCC patients, and highlight the impact of hypoxia microenvironment on sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zeng
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiliang Lu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Liu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjun Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.,Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Linjun Hu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Shi
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Tu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zunqiang Xiao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiuran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
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12
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Shrestha R, Bridle KR, Cao L, Crawford DHG, Jayachandran A. Dual Targeting of Sorafenib-Resistant HCC-Derived Cancer Stem Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:2150-2172. [PMID: 34208001 PMCID: PMC8293268 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28030200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib, an oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been the first-line therapy for the treatment of patients with advanced HCC, providing a survival benefit of only three months in approximately 30% of patients. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare tumour subpopulation with self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, and have been implicated in tumour growth, recurrence and drug resistance. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the generation and maintenance of the CSC population, resulting in immune evasion and therapy resistance in several cancers, including HCC. The aim of this study is to target the chemoresistant CSC population in HCC by assessing the effectiveness of a combination treatment approach with Sorafenib, an EMT inhibitor and an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). A stem-cell-conditioned serum-free medium was utilised to enrich the CSC population from the human HCC cell lines Hep3B, PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2. The anchorage independent spheres were characterised for CSC features. The human HCC-derived spheres were assessed for EMT status and expression of immune checkpoint molecules. The effect of combination treatment with SB431542, an EMT inhibitor, and siRNA-mediated knockdown of programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) or CD73 along with Sorafenib on human HCC-derived CSCs was examined with cell viability and apoptosis assays. The three-dimensional spheres enriched from human HCC cell lines demonstrated CSC-like features. The human HCC-derived CSCs also exhibited the EMT phenotype along with the upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules. The combined treatment with SB431542 and siRNA-mediated PD-L1 or CD73 knockdown effectively enhanced the cytotoxicity of Sorafenib against the CSC population compared to Sorafenib alone, as evidenced by the reduced size and proliferation of spheres. Furthermore, the combination treatment of Sorafenib with SB431542 and PD-L1 or CD73 siRNA resulted in an increased proportion of an apoptotic population, as evidenced by flow cytometry analysis. In conclusion, the combined targeting of EMT and immune checkpoint molecules with Sorafenib can effectively target the CSC tumour subpopulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Shrestha
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Kim R. Bridle
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Lu Cao
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Darrell H. G. Crawford
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Aparna Jayachandran
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-4-2424-8058
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Li W, Liu K, Chen Y, Zhu M, Li M. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Drug Resistance. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:1126-1142. [PMID: 32729413 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327999200729151247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major type of primary liver cancer and a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide because of its high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Surgical resection is currently the major treatment measure for patients in the early and middle stages of the disease. Because due to late diagnosis, most patients already miss the opportunity for surgery upon disease confirmation, conservative chemotherapy (drug treatment) remains an important method of comprehensive treatment for patients with middle- and late-stage liver cancer. However, multidrug resistance (MDR) in patients with HCC severely reduces the treatment effect and is an important obstacle to chemotherapeutic success. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an important biomarker for the diagnosis of HCC. The serum expression levels of AFP in many patients with HCC are increased, and a persistently increased AFP level is a risk factor for HCC progression. Many studies have indicated that AFP functions as an immune suppressor, and AFP can promote malignant transformation during HCC development and might be involved in the process of MDR in patients with liver cancer. This review describes drug resistance mechanisms during HCC drug treatment and reviews the relationship between the mechanism of AFP in HCC development and progression and HCC drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
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Yu Q, Li K, Zhao A, Wei M, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Lian T, Wang C, Xu L, Zhang Y, Xu C, Liu F. Sorafenib not only impairs endothelium-dependent relaxation but also promotes vasoconstriction through the upregulation of vasoconstrictive endothelin type B receptors. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 414:115420. [PMID: 33503445 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
As a VEGF-targeting agent, sorafenib has been used to treat a number of solid tumors but can easily lead to adverse vascular effects. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, rat mesenteric arteries were subjected to organ cultured in the presence of different concentrations of sorafenib (0, 3, 6 and 9 mg/L) with or without inhibitors (U0126, 10-5 M; SB203580, 10-5 M; SP200126, 10-5 M) of MAPK kinases, and then acetylcholine- or sodium nitroprusside-induced vasodilation and sarafotoxin 6c-induced vasoconstriction were monitored by a sensitive myograph. The NO synthetases, the nitrite levels, the endothelial marker CD31,the ETB and ETA receptors and the phosphorylation of MAPK kinases were studied. Next, rats were orally administrated by sorafenib for 4 weeks (7.5 and 15 mg/kg/day), and their blood pressure, plasma ET-1, the ETB and ETA receptors and the phosphorylation of MAPK kinases in the mesenteric arteries were investigated. The results showed that sorafenib impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilation due to decreased NO levels and the low expression of eNOS and iNOS. Weak staining for CD31 indicated that sorafenib induced endothelial damage. Moreover, sorafenib caused the upregulation of vasoconstrictive ETB receptors, the enhancement of ETB receptor-mediated vasoconstriction and the activation of JNK/MAPK. Blocking the JNK, ERK1/2 and p38/MAPK signaling pathways by using the inhibitors significantly abolished ETB receptor-mediated vasoconstriction. Furthermore, it was observed that the oral administration of sorafenib caused an increase in blood pressure and plasma ET-1, upregulation of the ETB receptor and the activation of JNK in the mesenteric arteries. In conclusion, sorafenib not only impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilatation but also enhances ETB receptor-mediated vasoconstriction, which may be the causal factors for hypertension and other adverse vascular effects in patients treated with sorafenib.
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MESH Headings
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors/toxicity
- Animals
- Blood Pressure/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Endothelium, Vascular/drug effects
- Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology
- Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases/metabolism
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells/drug effects
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells/metabolism
- Humans
- Hypertension/chemically induced
- Hypertension/metabolism
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- JNK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- Male
- Mesenteric Artery, Superior/drug effects
- Mesenteric Artery, Superior/metabolism
- Mesenteric Artery, Superior/physiopathology
- Nitric Oxide/metabolism
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Endothelin B/genetics
- Receptor, Endothelin B/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Sorafenib/toxicity
- Tissue Culture Techniques
- Up-Regulation
- Vasoconstriction/drug effects
- Vasodilation/drug effects
- p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- Rats
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China; Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China.
| | - Kun Li
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Andong Zhao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Mengqian Wei
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Zhenhao Huang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Yunting Zhang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Ying Chen
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Xi'an University of Posts and Telecommunications, Xi'an 710121, China.
| | - Ting Lian
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Li Xu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Yaping Zhang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Cangbao Xu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Fuqiang Liu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China; Cardiovascular Department, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an 710010, China.
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Meier T, Timm M, Montani M, Wilkens L. Gene networks and transcriptional regulators associated with liver cancer development and progression. BMC Med Genomics 2021; 14:41. [PMID: 33541355 PMCID: PMC7863452 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-021-00883-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are limited, and overall survival is poor. Despite the high frequency of this malignoma, its basic disease mechanisms are poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use different methodological approaches and combine the results to improve our knowledge on the development and progression of HCC. METHODS Twenty-three HCC samples were characterized by histological, morphometric and cytogenetic analyses, as well as comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and genome-wide gene expression followed by a bioinformatic search for potential transcriptional regulators and master regulatory molecules of gene networks. RESULTS Histological evaluation revealed low, intermediate and high-grade HCCs, and gene expression analysis split them into two main sets: GE1-HCC and GE2-HCC, with a low and high proliferation gene expression signature, respectively. Array-based comparative genomic hybridization demonstrated a high level of chromosomal instability, with recurrent chromosomal gains of 1q, 6p, 7q, 8q, 11q, 17q, 19p/q and 20q in both HCC groups and losses of 1p, 4q, 6q, 13q and 18q characteristic for GE2-HCC. Gene expression and bioinformatics analyses revealed that different genes and gene regulatory networks underlie the distinct biological features observed in GE1-HCC and GE2-HCC. Besides previously reported dysregulated genes, the current study identified new candidate genes with a putative role in liver cancer, e.g. C1orf35, PAFAH1B3, ZNF219 and others. CONCLUSION Analysis of our findings, in accordance with the available published data, argues in favour of the notion that the activated E2F1 signalling pathway, which can be responsible for both inappropriate cell proliferation and initial chromosomal instability, plays a pivotal role in HCC development and progression. A dedifferentiation switch that manifests in exaggerated gene expression changes might be due to turning on transcriptional co-regulators with broad impact on gene expression, e.g. POU2F1 (OCT1) and NFY, as a response to accumulating cell stress during malignant development. Our findings point towards the necessity of different approaches for the treatment of HCC forms with low and high proliferation signatures and provide new candidates for developing appropriate HCC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Meier
- Institute of Pathology, Nordstadtkrankenhaus, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Max Timm
- Institute of Pathology, Nordstadtkrankenhaus, Hanover, Germany
- Clinic for Laryngology, Rhinology and Otology, Medical School Hanover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Matteo Montani
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Wilkens
- Institute of Pathology, Nordstadtkrankenhaus, Hanover, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical School Hanover, Hanover, Germany
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16
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Adenina S, Louisa M, Soetikno V, Arozal W, Wanandi SI. The Effect of Alpha Mangostin on Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells Surviving Sorafenib via TGF-β/Smad Pathways. Adv Pharm Bull 2020; 10:648-655. [PMID: 33062605 PMCID: PMC7539313 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2020.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study was intended to find out the impact of alpha mangostin administration on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and TGF-β/Smad pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma Hep-G2 cells surviving sorafenib. Methods: Hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells were treated with sorafenib 10 μM. Cells surviving sorafenib treatment (HepG2surv) were then treated vehicle, sorafenib, alpha mangostin, or combination of sorafenib and alpha mangostin. Afterward, cells were observed for their morphology with an inverted microscope and counted for cell viability. The concentrations of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in a culture medium were examined using ELISA. The mRNA expressions of TGF-β1, TGF-β1-receptor, Smad3, Smad7, E-cadherin, and vimentin were evaluated using quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. The protein level of E-cadherin was also determined using western blot analysis. Results: Treatment of alpha mangostin and sorafenib caused a significant decrease in the viability of sorafenib-surviving HepG2 cells versus control (both groups with P <0.05). Our study found that alpha mangostin treatment increased the expressions of vimentin (P <0.001 versus control). In contrast, alpha mangostin treatment tends to decrease the expressions of Smad7 and E-cadherin (both with P >0.05). In line with our findings, the expressions of TGF-β1 and Smad3 are significantly upregulated after alpha mangostin administration (both with P <0.05) versus control. Conclusion: Alpha mangostin reduced cell viability of sorafenib-surviving HepG2 cells; however, it also enhanced epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers by activating TGF-β/Smad pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syarinta Adenina
- Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Melva Louisa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Vivian Soetikno
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
| | - Wawaimuli Arozal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia
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Yu MC, Wu TH, Lee CW, Lee YS, Lian JH, Tsai CL, Hsieh SY, Tsai CN. Percentage genome change and chromosome 7q amplification predict sorafenib response in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed J 2020; 44:S73-S83. [PMID: 35747997 PMCID: PMC9038951 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2020.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may arise from genomic instability and has dismal outcome. Sorafenib is the first-line treatment for advanced stage HCC, but its therapeutic efficacy is less than 50%. Biomarkers for predicting the therapeutic efficacy of sorafenib administration to patients with advanced HCC are required. Here, we evaluated the role of chromosomal copy number aberrations (CNAs) in patients with advanced HCC who were treated with sorafenib along with their drug response. Methods The response to sorafenib treatment of twenty-three HCC patients who developed advanced recurrence after partial hepatectomy was analyzed using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST). Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue specimens obtained after tumor resection were analyzed using the Affymetrix OncoScan® FFPE assay. Results From the 23 patients analyzed in this study, 7 (30.4%) had complete/partial response to sorafenib (CR/PR), 7 (30.4%) had stable disease (SD), and 9 (39.1%) had progressive disease (PD). The mean genome-wide percentage of genome change acquisition via the OncoScan platform was 19.8% for patients with CR/PR/SD and 50.02% in the PD group (p = 0.055). Percentage of genome change above 33% was associated with adverse outcomes for sorafenib treatment in the time-to-progression analysis (p = 0.007) and overall survival (p = 0.096). Among these CNAs, amplification of chromosome 7q, containing the multidrug resistance gene ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily B Member 1 (ACBC1), significantly associated with poor overall survival (p = 0.004) and time-to-progression (p < 0.001). Conclusions Higher percentage genome change and amplification of chromosome 7q in advanced HCC is associated with sorafenib resistance.
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18
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Seitz T, Freese K, Dietrich P, Thasler WE, Bosserhoff A, Hellerbrand C. Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 is expressed by activated hepatic stellate cells and promotes progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4546. [PMID: 32161315 PMCID: PMC7066162 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61510-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is closely associated with liver fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and cancer-associated myofibroblasts are key players in liver fibrogenesis and hepatocarcinogenesis. Overexpression of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptors contributes to HCC development and progression. This study aimed to elucidate the role of FGFs in the HSC-HCC crosstalk. Analysis of the expression of the fifteen paracrine FGF-members revealed that FGF9 was only expressed by HSC but not by HCC cells. Also in human HCC tissues, HSC/stromal myofibroblasts were identified as cellular source of FGF9. High expression levels of FGF9 significantly correlated with poor patient survival. Stimulation with recombinant FGF9 induced ERK- and JNK-activation combined with significantly enhanced proliferation, clonogenicity, and migration of HCC cells. Moreover, FGF9 significantly reduced the sensitivity of HCC cells against sorafenib. Protumorigenic effects of FGF9 on HCC cells were almost completely abrogated by the FGFR1/2/3 inhibitor BGJ398, while the selective FGFR4 inhibitor BLU9931 had no significant effect. In conclusion, these data indicate that stroma-derived FGF9 promotes tumorigenicity and sorafenib resistance of HCC cells and FGF9 overexpression correlates with poor prognosis in HCC patients. Herewith, FGF9 appears as potential prognostic marker and novel therapeutic target in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Seitz
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kim Freese
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter Dietrich
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Medical Clinic 1, Department of Medicine, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Zentrum, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany. .,Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany.
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Musso O, Beraza N. Hepatocellular carcinomas: evolution to sorafenib resistance through hepatic leukaemia factor. Gut 2019; 68:1728-1730. [PMID: 31270163 PMCID: PMC6839724 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Musso
- INSERM, Univ Rennes, INRA, Institut NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolisms and Cancer), Rennes, France.
| | - Naiara Beraza
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute, Norwich, UK
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Diclofenac Potentiates Sorafenib-Based Treatments of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Enhancing Oxidative Stress. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101453. [PMID: 31569821 PMCID: PMC6827164 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is the first developed systemic treatment for advanced forms of hepatocellular carcinoma, which constitutes the most frequent form of primary liver cancers and is a major global health burden. Although statistically significant, the positive effect of sorafenib on median survival remains modest, highlighting the need to develop novel therapeutic approaches. In this report, we introduce diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, as a potent catalyzer of sorafenib anticancer efficacy. Treatment of three different hepatocellular cancer cells (Huh-7, HepG2, and PLC-PRF-5) with sorafenib (5 µM, 24 h) and diclofenac (100 µM, 24 h) significantly increased cancer cell death compared to sorafenib or diclofenac alone. Anti-oxidant compounds, including N-acetyl-cysteine and ascorbic acid, reversed the deleterious effects of diclofenac/sorafenib co-therapy, suggesting that the generation of toxic levels of oxidative stress was responsible for cell death. Accordingly, whereas diclofenac increased production of mitochondrial oxygen reactive species, sorafenib decreased concentrations of glutathione. We further show that tumor burden was significantly diminished in mice bearing tumor xenografts following sorafenib/diclofenac co-therapy when compared to sorafenib or diclofenac alone. Taken together, these results highlight the anticancer benefits of sorafenib/diclofenac co-therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. They further indicate that combining sorafenib with compounds that increase oxidative stress represents a valuable treatment strategy in hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Di Giacomo S, Briz O, Monte MJ, Sanchez-Vicente L, Abete L, Lozano E, Mazzanti G, Di Sotto A, Marin JJG. Chemosensitization of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to sorafenib by β-caryophyllene oxide-induced inhibition of ABC export pumps. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:623-634. [PMID: 30659321 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Several ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins reduce intracellular concentrations of antitumor drugs and hence weaken the response of cancer cells to chemotherapy. Accordingly, the inhibition of these export pumps constitutes a promising strategy to chemosensitize highly chemoresistant tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we have investigated the ability of β-caryophyllene oxide (CRYO), a naturally occurring sesquiterpene component of many essential oils, to inhibit, at non-toxic doses, ABC pumps and improve the response of HCC cells to sorafenib. First, we have obtained a clonal subline (Alexander/R) derived from human hepatoma cells with enhanced multidrug resistance (MDR) associated to up-regulation (mRNA and protein) of MRP1 and MRP2. Analysis of fluorescent substrates export (flow cytometry) revealed that CRYO did not affect the efflux of fluorescein (MRP3, MRP4 and MRP5) but inhibited that of rhodamine 123 (MDR1) and calcein (MRP1 and MRP2). This ability was higher for CRYO than for other sesquiterpenes assayed. CRYO also inhibited sorafenib efflux, increased its intracellular accumulation (HPLC-MS/MS) and enhanced its cytotoxic response (MTT). For comparison, the effect of known ABC pumps inhibitors was also determined. They induced strong (diclofenac on MRPs), modest (verapamil on MDR1) or null (fumitremorgin C on BCRP) effect on sorafenib efflux and cytotoxicity. In the mouse xenograft model, the response to sorafenib treatment of subcutaneous tumors generated by mouse hepatoma Hepa 1-6/R cells, with marked MDR phenotype, was significantly enhanced by CRYO co-administration. In conclusion, at non-toxic dose, CRYO is able to chemosensitizating liver cancer cells to sorafenib by favoring its intracellular accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Oscar Briz
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Monte
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Sanchez-Vicente
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Lorena Abete
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Lozano
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gabriela Mazzanti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Sotto
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jose J G Marin
- Laboratory of Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM), IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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22
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Jindal A, Thadi A, Shailubhai K. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Etiology and Current and Future Drugs. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 9:221-232. [PMID: 31024205 PMCID: PMC6477125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is swiftly increasing in prevalence globally with a high mortality rate. The progression of HCC in patients is induced with advanced fibrosis, mainly cirrhosis, and hepatitis. The absence of proper preventive or curative treatment methods encouraged extensive research against HCC to develop new therapeutic strategies. The Food and Drug Administration-approved Nexavar (sorafenib) is used in the treatment of patients with unresectable HCC. In 2017, Stivarga (regorafenib) and Opdivo (nivolumab) got approved for patients with HCC after being treated with sorafenib, and in 2018, Lenvima (lenvatinib) got approved for patients with unresectable HCC. But, owing to the rapid drug resistance development and toxicities, these treatment options are not completely satisfactory. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new systemic combination therapies that target different signaling mechanisms, thereby decreasing the prospect of cancer cells developing resistance to treatment. In this review, HCC etiology and new therapeutic strategies that include currently approved drugs and other potential candidates of HCC such as Milciclib, palbociclib, galunisertib, ipafricept, and ramucirumab are evaluated.
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Key Words
- AMP, adenosine monophosphate
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- ATP, adenosine 5′-triphosphate
- BMF, Bcl2 modifying factor
- BMI, body mass index
- CDK, cyclin-dependent kinase
- CTGF, connective tissue growth factor
- CTL, cytotoxic T lymphocyte
- CTLA, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EFGR, endothelial growth factor receptor
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- EMT, Epithelial–mesenchymal transition
- ERK, extracellular signal-regulated kinase
- FDA, Food and Drug Administration
- GFG, fibroblast growth factor
- HBV, hepatitis B virus
- HBcAg, hepatitis B core antibody
- HBsAg, HBV surface antigen
- HCC, Hepatocellular carcinoma
- HCV, hepatitis B virus
- HDV, hepatitis D virus
- HIF, hypoxia-inducible factor
- HIV, human immunodeficiency virus
- IGFR, insulin-like growth factor
- JAK, janus kinase
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MDSC, myeloid-derived suppressor cell
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NK, natural killer
- NKT, natural killer T cell
- ORR, objective response rate
- OS, overall survival
- PAPSS1, 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate synthase 1
- PD-L1, programmed death ligand1
- PD1, programmed cell death protein 1
- PDGFR, platelet-derived growth factor receptor
- PEDF, pigment epithelium-derived factor
- PFS, progression-free survival
- PI3K, phosphoinositide 3-kinases
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog
- PUMA, p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis
- RFA, radiofrequency ablation
- Rb, retinoblastoma protein
- SCF, stem cell factor
- SHP1, src homology 2 domain–containing phosphatase 1
- STAT3, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3
- TACE, transarterial chemoembolization
- TGF 1, transforming growth factor-1
- TK, tyrosine kinase
- TKI, Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
- TRKA, tropomyosin receptor kinase A
- Treg, regulatory T cells
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- VEGFR, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor
- bFGF, basic fibroblast growth factor
- combination therapy
- cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- hepatology
- tyrosine kinase inhibitors
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Affiliation(s)
- Aastha Jindal
- Research and Development Center, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
- Address for correspondence: Aastha Jindal, Research and Development Center, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA.
| | - Anusha Thadi
- Research and Development Center, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
| | - Kunwar Shailubhai
- Research and Development Center, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
- Research & Development, Tiziana Lifesciences, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA
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23
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Dai J, Ma Y, Chu S, Le N, Cao J, Wang Y. Identification of key genes and pathways in meningioma by bioinformatics analysis. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:8245-8252. [PMID: 29805558 PMCID: PMC5950024 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningioma is the most frequently occurring type of brain tumor. The present study aimed to conduct a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of key genes and relevant pathways involved in meningioma, and acquire further insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms. Initially, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in 47 meningioma samples as compared with 4 normal meninges were identified. Subsequently, these DEGs were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. In addition, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the identified DEGs was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes and visualized using Cytoscape. In total, 1,683 DEGs were identified, including 66 upregulated and 1,617 downregulated genes. The GO analysis results revealed that the DEGs were significantly associated with the ‘protein binding’, ‘cytoplasm’, ‘extracellular matrix (ECM) organization’ and ‘cell adhesion’ terms. The KEGG analysis results demonstrated the significant pathways included ‘AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications’, ‘PI3K-Akt signaling pathway’, ‘ECM-receptor interaction’ and ‘cell adhesion molecules’. The top five hub genes obtained from the PPI network were JUN, PIK3R1, FOS, AGT and MYC, and the most enriched KEGG pathways associated with the four obtained modules were ‘chemokine signaling pathway’, ‘cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction’, ‘allograft rejection’, and ‘complement and coagulation cascades’. In conclusion, bioinformatics analysis identified a number of potential biomarkers and relevant pathways that may represent key mechanisms involved in the development and progression of meningioma. However, these findings require verification in future experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxi Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201900, P.R. China
| | - Yanbin Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201900, P.R. China
| | - Shenghua Chu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201900, P.R. China
| | - Nanyang Le
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201900, P.R. China
| | - Jun Cao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201900, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Emergency, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200082, P.R. China
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24
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Niu L, Liu L, Yang S, Ren J, Lai PBS, Chen GG. New insights into sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma: Responsible mechanisms and promising strategies. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2017; 1868:564-570. [PMID: 29054475 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is disappointing that only a few patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) obtain a significant survival benefit from the sorafenib treatment, which is currently regarded as a first-line chemotherapeutic therapy in patients with advanced HCC. Most patients are highly refractory to this therapy. Therefore, it is necessary to identify resistant factors and explore potential protocols that can be used to overcome the resistance or substitute sorafenib once the resistance is formed. In fact, a growing body of studies has been focusing on the resistance mechanisms or the method to overcome it. The limitation of sorafenib efficacy has been partially but not fully elucidated. Moreover, some protocols have shown encouraging outcomes but still need to be further verified in clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on the potential mechanisms that contribute to sorafenib resistance and discuss strategies that can be used to improve the treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Niu
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Liping Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shengli Yang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Jianwei Ren
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Paul B S Lai
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, China.
| | - George G Chen
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, NT, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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25
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Haga Y, Kanda T, Nakamura M, Nakamoto S, Sasaki R, Takahashi K, Wu S, Yokosuka O. Overexpression of c-Jun contributes to sorafenib resistance in human hepatoma cell lines. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174153. [PMID: 28323861 PMCID: PMC5360329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recent advances in treatment strategies, it is still difficult to cure patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Sorafenib is the only approved multiple kinase inhibitor for systemic chemotherapy in patients with advanced HCC. The majority of advanced HCC patients are resistant to sorafenib. The mechanisms of sorafenib resistance are still unknown. Methods The expression of molecules involved in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway in human hepatoma cell lines was examined in the presence or absence of sorafenib. Apoptosis of human hepatoma cells treated with sorafenib was investigated, and the expression of Jun proto-oncogene (c-Jun) was measured. Results The expression and phosphorylation of c-Jun were enhanced in human hepatoma cell lines after treatment with sorafenib. Inhibiting c-Jun enhanced sorafenib-induced apoptosis. The overexpression of c-Jun impaired sorafenib-induced apoptosis. The expression of osteopontin, one of the established AP-1 target genes, was enhanced after treatment with sorafenib in human hepatoma cell lines. Conclusions The protein c-Jun plays a role in sorafenib resistance in human hepatoma cell lines. The modulation and phosphorylation of c-Jun could be a new therapeutic option for enhancing responsiveness to sorafenib. Modulating c-Jun may be useful for certain HCC patients with sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Haga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Kanda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Masato Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Molecular Virology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Reina Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Koji Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shuang Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Osamu Yokosuka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nephrology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
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26
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Chen Y, Tang Q, Xiao Q, Yang L, Hann SS. Targeting EP4 downstream c-Jun through ERK1/2-mediated reduction of DNMT1 reveals novel mechanism of solamargine-inhibited growth of lung cancer cells. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 21:222-233. [PMID: 27620163 PMCID: PMC5264151 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. We previously showed that solamargine, one natural phytochemicals from traditional plants, inhibited the growth of lung cancer cells through inhibition of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) receptor EP4. However, the potential downstream effectors of EP4 involving in the anti-lung cancer effects of solamargine still remained to be determined. In this study, we further verified that solamargine inhibited growth of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells in multiple cell lines. Mechanistically, solamargine increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Moreover, solamargine inhibited the protein expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and c-Jun, which were abrogated in cells treated with MEK/ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059) and transfected with exogenously expressed DNMT1 gene, respectively. Interestingly, overexpressed DNMT1 gene antagonized the effect of solamargine on c-Jun protein expression. Intriguingly, overexpressed c-Jun blocked solamargine-inhibited lung cancer cell growth, and feedback resisted the solamargine-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. A nude mouse xenograft model implanted with lung cancer cells in vivo confirmed the results in vitro. Collectively, our results show that solamargine inhibits the growth of human lung cancer cells through reduction of EP4 protein expression, followed by increasing ERK1/2 phosphorylation. This results in decrease in DNMT1 and c-Jun protein expressions. The inter-correlations between EP4, DNMT1 and c-Jun and feedback regulation of ERK1/2 by c-Jun contribute to the overall responses of solamargine in this process. This study uncovers an additional novel mechanism by which solamargine inhibits growth of human lung cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Chen
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Department of Medical Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Tang
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Department of Medical Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Xiao
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Department of Medical Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - LiJun Yang
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Department of Medical Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Swei S Hann
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Department of Medical Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical Collage, University of Guangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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