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Kaplinsky A, Halperin R, Shlomai G, Tirosh A. Role of epigenetic regulation on catecholamine synthesis in pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. Cancer 2024; 130:3289-3296. [PMID: 38872410 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) typically secrete catecholamines and their metabolites (metanephrines [MN] and normetanephrine [NMN]). Catecholamines are synthesized by several enzymes: phenylalanine hydroxylase (encoded by PAH), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (DDC), dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH), and phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT). MN/NMN secretion varies between anatomical and molecular subgroups. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between DNA methylation of catecholamine synthesis genes and MN/NMN secretion. METHODS Gene promoter methylation of PAH, TH, AADC, DBH, and PNMT were extracted and calculated based on publicly available data. Comparisons and correlation analysis were performed between MN ± NMN (MN/NMN), NMN only, and neither/unknown secretion patterns. Methylation levels and MN/NMN patterns were compared by three genetic alteration subgroups: pseudohypoxia (PH), kinase signaling (KS), and others. RESULTS A total of 178 cases were included. Methylation of PAH CpGs negatively correlated with probability for MN/NMN secretion (p < .05 for all CpGs) and positively with NMN-only secretion. NMN-only secreting tumors had significantly higher promoter methylation of PAH, DBH, and PNMT compared with MN/NMN-secreting tumors. MN/NMN-secreting PPGLs had mainly KS alterations (52.1%), whereas NMN-only PPGLs had PH alterations (41.9%). PPGLs in the PH versus KS group had gene promoter hypermethylation of PAH (p = .002), DBH (p = .02), and PNMT (p = .003). CONCLUSIONS Promoter methylation of genes encoding catecholamine synthesis enzymes is strongly and inversely correlated with MN/NMN patterns in PPGLs. KS and PH-related tumors have distinct methylation patterns. These results imply that methylation is a key regulatory mechanism of catecholamine synthesis in PPGLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kaplinsky
- Cancer Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Reut Halperin
- Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, ENTIRE - Endocrine Neoplasia Translational Research Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Gadi Shlomai
- Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Internal Medicine D Ward, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Amit Tirosh
- Tel Aviv University Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, ENTIRE - Endocrine Neoplasia Translational Research Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
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Jamison JK, Zhou M, Gelmann EP, Luk L, Bates SE, Califano A, Fojo T. Entinostat in patients with relapsed or refractory abdominal neuroendocrine tumors. Oncologist 2024; 29:817-e1213. [PMID: 38886159 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyae118] [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: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) are rare neoplasms with an increasing annual incidence and prevalence. Many are metastatic at presentation or recur following surgical resection and require systemic therapy, for which somatostatin analogs such as octreotide or lanreotide comprise typical first-line therapies. Nonetheless, treatment options remain limited. Epigenetic processes such as histone modifications have been implicated in malignant transformation and progression. In this study, we evaluated the anti-proliferative effects of a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, entinostat, which was computationally predicted to show anti-cancer activity, as confirmed in in vitro and in vivo models of GEP-NETs. METHODS This was a phase II study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of entinostat in patients with relapsed or refractory abdominal NETs. The primary objective was to estimate the objective response rate to entinostat. Additionally, with each patient as his/her own control we estimated the rates of tumor growth prior to enrollment on study and while receiving entinostat. Patients received 5 mg entinostat weekly until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The dose could be changed to 10 mg biweekly for patients who did not experience grade ≥ 2 treatment-related adverse events (AEs) in cycle 1, but was primarily administered at the starting 5 mg weekly dose. RESULTS The study enrolled only 5 patients due to early termination by the drug sponsor. The first patient that enrolled had advanced disease and died within days of enrollment before follow-up imaging due to a grade 5 AE unrelated to study treatment and was considered non-evaluable. Best RECIST response for the remaining 4 patients was stable disease (SD) with time on study of 154+, 243, 574, and 741 days. With each patient as his/her own control, rates of tumor growth on entinostat were markedly reduced with rates 17%, 20%, 33%, and 68% of the rates prior to enrollment on study. Toxicities possibly or definitely related to entinostat included grade 2/3 neutrophil count decrease [2/4 (50%)/ 2/4 (50%)], grade 3 hypophosphatemia [1/4, (25%)], grade 1/2 fatigue [1/4 (25%)/ 2/4 (50%)], and other self-limiting grade 1/2 AEs. CONCLUSION In the treatment of relapsed or refractory abdominal NETs, entinostat 5 mg weekly led to prolonged SD and reduced the rate of tumor growth by 32% to 83% with an acceptable safety profile (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03211988).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mengxi Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Lyndon Luk
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Susan E Bates
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Andrea Califano
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub New York, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States
| | - Tito Fojo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
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Krawic C, Luczak MW, Zhitkovich A. Sensitive Detection of Histones and γ-H2AX by Immunoblotting: Problems and Solutions. Chem Res Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 39237351 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.4c00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Histones and their posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are critical regulators of gene expression. Differentiation, environmental stressors, xenobiotics, and major human diseases cause significant changes in histone variants and PTMs. Western blotting is the mainstay methodology for detection of histones and their PTMs in the majority of studies. Surprisingly, despite their high abundance in cells, immunoblotting of histones typically involves loading of large protein amounts that are normally used for detection of sparse cellular proteins. We systematically examined technical factors in the Western-blotting-based detection of human histones with >30 antibodies. We found that under multiple protein transfer conditions, many histone epitopes on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes had a very low antibody accessibility, which was dramatically increased by the addition of a simple denaturation step. Denaturation of membrane-bound proteins also enhanced the specificity of some histone antibodies. In comparison to standard PVDF membranes, the sensitivity of histone detection on standard nitrocellulose membranes was typically much higher, which was further increased by the inclusion of the same denaturation step. Optimized protocols increased by >100-times detection sensitivity for the genotoxic marker γ-H2AX with two monoclonal antibodies. The impact of denaturation and nitrocellulose use varied for different histones, but for each histone, it was generally similar for antibodies targeting N-terminal and C-terminal regions. In summary, denaturation of membrane-bound histones strongly improves their detection by Westerns, resulting in more accurate measurements and permitting analyses with small biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Krawic
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, United States
| | - Michal W Luczak
- Unlocked Laboratories, Laramie, Wyoming 82072, United States
| | - Anatoly Zhitkovich
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, United States
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Li H, Playter C, Das P, McCord RP. Chromosome compartmentalization: causes, changes, consequences, and conundrums. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:707-727. [PMID: 38395734 PMCID: PMC11339242 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The spatial segregation of the genome into compartments is a major feature of 3D genome organization. New data on mammalian chromosome organization across different conditions reveal important information about how and why these compartments form and change. A combination of epigenetic state, nuclear body tethering, physical forces, gene expression, and replication timing (RT) can all influence the establishment and alteration of chromosome compartments. We review the causes and implications of genomic regions undergoing a 'compartment switch' that changes their physical associations and spatial location in the nucleus. About 20-30% of genomic regions change compartment during cell differentiation or cancer progression, whereas alterations in response to a stimulus within a cell type are usually much more limited. However, even a change in 1-2% of genomic bins may have biologically relevant implications. Finally, we review the effects of compartment changes on gene regulation, DNA damage repair, replication, and the physical state of the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Christopher Playter
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Priyojit Das
- University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge National Laboratory (UT-ORNL) Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Rachel Patton McCord
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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Zhao C, Zhang J, Zhou H, Setroikromo R, Poelarends GJ, Dekker FJ. Exploration of Hydrazide-Based HDAC8 PROTACs for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies and Solid Tumors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:14016-14039. [PMID: 39089850 PMCID: PMC11345830 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
HDAC8 can mediate signals by using its enzymatic or nonenzymatic functions, which are expected to be critical for various types of cancer. Herein, we employed proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology to target the enzymatic as well as the nonenzymatic functions of HDAC8. A potent and selective HDAC8 PROTAC Z16 (CZH-726) with low nanomolar DC50 values in various cell lines was identified. Interestingly, Z16 induced structural maintenance of chromosomes protein 3 (SMC3) hyperacetylation at low concentrations and histone hyperacetylation at high concentrations, which can be explained by HDAC8 degradation and off-target HDAC inhibition, respectively. Notably, Z16 potently inhibited proliferation of various cancer cell lines and the antiproliferative mechanisms proved to be cell-type-dependent, which, to a large extent, is due to off-target HDAC inhibition. In conclusion, we report a hydrazide-based HDAC8 PROTAC Z16, which can be used as a probe to investigate the biological functions of HDAC8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hangyu Zhou
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical
Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rita Setroikromo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical
Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit J. Poelarends
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical
Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J. Dekker
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical
Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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Wang L, Bai Y, Cao Z, Guo Z, Lian Y, Liu P, Zeng Y, Lyu W, Chen Q. Histone deacetylases and inhibitors in diabetes mellitus and its complications. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117010. [PMID: 38941890 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117010] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, with its prevalence linked to both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Epigenetic modifications, particularly through histone deacetylases (HDACs), have been recognized for their significant influence on DM pathogenesis. This review focuses on the classification of HDACs, their role in DM and its complications, and the potential therapeutic applications of HDAC inhibitors. HDACs, which modulate gene expression without altering DNA sequences, are categorized into four classes with distinct functions and tissue specificity. HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) have shown efficacy in various diseases, including DM, by targeting these enzymes. The review highlights how HDACs regulate β-cell function, insulin sensitivity, and hepatic gluconeogenesis in DM, as well as their impact on diabetic cardiomyopathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Finally, we suggest that targeted histone modification is expected to become a key method for the treatment of diabetes and its complications. The study of HDACi offers insights into new treatment strategies for DM and its associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, PR China; Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Yuning Bai
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Zhengmin Cao
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Ziwei Guo
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Yanjie Lian
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, PR China
| | - Pan Liu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, PR China
| | - Yixian Zeng
- Department of Proctology, Beibei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400799, PR China
| | - Wenliang Lyu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, PR China.
| | - Qiu Chen
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, PR China.
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Liu H, Xue F, Zhou R, Tian H, Mao J, Wu T. Chidamide in combination with azacitidine for an elderly patient with peripheral T cell lymphoma‑not otherwise specified: A case report. Oncol Lett 2024; 28:341. [PMID: 38855506 PMCID: PMC11157661 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL) is a type of aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with poor prognosis. PTCL-not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS) is one of its most common pathological types. PTCL is not sensitive to conventional chemotherapy regimens and treatment is particularly limited in elderly patients due to their poor tolerance to chemotherapy. The present report shares the treatment experience of one elderly PTCL-NOS case, which achieved complete remission by reduced-intensity chemotherapy with chidamide in combination with azacitidine following the onset of organ failure and chemotherapy insensitivity. The 9-month follow-up showed sustained remission and the long-term efficacy of this regimen is also promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Liu
- Department of Hematology, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Feng Xue
- Department of Hematology, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Hongjuan Tian
- Department of Hematology, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Junfeng Mao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
| | - Tao Wu
- Department of Hematology, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of The Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
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8
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Xiong HY, Wyns A, Campenhout JV, Hendrix J, De Bruyne E, Godderis L, Schabrun S, Nijs J, Polli A. Epigenetic Landscapes of Pain: DNA Methylation Dynamics in Chronic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8324. [PMID: 39125894 PMCID: PMC11312850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a prevalent condition with a multifaceted pathogenesis, where epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation, might play an important role. This review delves into the intricate mechanisms by which DNA methylation and demethylation regulate genes associated with nociception and pain perception in nociceptive pathways. We explore the dynamic nature of these epigenetic processes, mediated by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes, which modulate the expression of pro- and anti-nociceptive genes. Aberrant DNA methylation profiles have been observed in patients with various chronic pain syndromes, correlating with hypersensitivity to painful stimuli, neuronal hyperexcitability, and inflammatory responses. Genome-wide analyses shed light on differentially methylated regions and genes that could serve as potential biomarkers for chronic pain in the epigenetic landscape. The transition from acute to chronic pain is marked by rapid DNA methylation reprogramming, suggesting its potential role in pain chronicity. This review highlights the importance of understanding the temporal dynamics of DNA methylation during this transition to develop targeted therapeutic interventions. Reversing pathological DNA methylation patterns through epigenetic therapies emerges as a promising strategy for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Yu Xiong
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Arne Wyns
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Jente Van Campenhout
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Jolien Hendrix
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elke De Bruyne
- Translational Oncology Research Center (TORC), Team Hematology and Immunology (HEIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Lode Godderis
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Siobhan Schabrun
- The School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- The Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity, Parkwood Institute, St. Joseph’s Healthcare, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Jo Nijs
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
- Chronic Pain Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Medicine and Physiotherapy, University Hospital Brussels, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41390 Göterbog, Sweden
| | - Andrea Polli
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (J.H.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
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Chen Y, Wang G, Chen J, Wang C, Dong X, Chang HM, Yuan S, Zhao Y, Mu L. Genetic and Epigenetic Landscape for Drug Development in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:437-459. [PMID: 38298137 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) faces challenges as all known treatments are merely symptomatic. The US Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drug specifically for treating PCOS. As the significance of genetics and epigenetics rises in drug development, their pivotal insights have greatly enhanced the efficacy and success of drug target discovery and validation, offering promise for guiding the advancement of PCOS treatments. In this context, we outline the genetic and epigenetic advancement in PCOS, which provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of this complex disease. We also delve into the prospective method for harnessing genetic and epigenetic strategies to identify potential drug targets and ensure target safety. Additionally, we shed light on the preliminary evidence and distinctive challenges associated with gene and epigenetic therapies in the context of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Guiquan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361023, China
| | - Jingqiao Chen
- The First School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Congying Wang
- The Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40400, Taiwan
| | - Shuai Yuan
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 65, Sweden
| | - Yue Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100007, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liangshan Mu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Yu M, Ni M, Xu F, Liu C, Chen L, Li J, Xia S, Diao Y, Chen J, Zhu J, Wu X, Tang M, Li J, Ke G. NSUN6-mediated 5-methylcytosine modification of NDRG1 mRNA promotes radioresistance in cervical cancer. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:139. [PMID: 38970106 PMCID: PMC11225205 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02055-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radioresistance is the leading cause of death in advanced cervical cancer (CC). Dysregulation of RNA modification has recently emerged as a regulatory mechanism in radiation and drug resistance. We aimed to explore the biological function and clinical significance of 5-methylcytosine (m5C) in cervical cancer radiosensitivity. METHODS The abundance of RNA modification in radiotherapy-resistant and sensitive CC specimens was quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The essential RNA modification-related genes involved in CC radiosensitivity were screened via RNA sequencing. The effect of NSUN6 on radiosensitivity was verified in CC cell lines, cell-derived xenograft (CDX), and 3D bioprinted patient-derived organoid (PDO). The mechanisms of NSUN6 in regulating CC radiosensitivity were investigated by integrative m5C sequencing, mRNA sequencing, and RNA immunoprecipitation. RESULTS We found a higher abundance of m5C modification in resistant CC samples, and NSUN6 was the essential m5C-regulating gene concerning radiosensitivity. NSUN6 overexpression was clinically correlated with radioresistance and poor prognosis in cervical cancer. Functionally, higher NSUN6 expression was associated with radioresistance in the 3D PDO model of cervical cancer. Moreover, silencing NSUN6 increased CC radiosensitivity in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, NDRG1 was one of the downstream target genes of NSUN6 identified by integrated m5C-seq, mRNA-seq, and functional validation. NSUN6 promoted the m5C modification of NDRG1 mRNA, and the m5C reader ALYREF bound explicitly to the m5C-labeled NDRG1 mRNA and enhanced NDRG1 mRNA stability. NDRG1 overexpression promoted homologous recombination-mediated DNA repair, which in turn led to radioresistance in cervical cancer. CONCLUSIONS Aberrant m5C hypermethylation and NSUN6 overexpression drive resistance to radiotherapy in cervical cancer. Elevated NSUN6 expression promotes radioresistance in cervical cancer by activating the NSUN6/ALYREF-m5C-NDRG1 pathway. The low expression of NSUN6 in cervical cancer indicates sensitivity to radiotherapy and a better prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Mengdong Ni
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chaohua Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiana Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Siyu Xia
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yixin Diao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiaxin Chen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaohua Wu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Min Tang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Jiajia Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Guihao Ke
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Safari M, Scotto L, Basseville A, Litman T, Xue H, Petrukhin L, Zhou P, Morales DV, Damoci C, Zhu M, Hull K, Olive KP, Fojo T, Romo D, Bates SE. Combined HDAC and eIF4A inhibition: A novel epigenetic therapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.30.600495. [PMID: 39005268 PMCID: PMC11244854 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.30.600495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma-(PDAC) needs innovative approaches due to its 12% 5-year survival despite current therapies. We show marked sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to the combination of a novel eIF4A inhibitor, des-methyl pateamine A (DMPatA), and a histone deacetylase inhibitor, romidepsin, inducing epigenetic reprogramming as an innovative therapeutic strategy. Exploring the mechanistic activity of this combination showed that with a short duration of romidepsin at low doses, robust acetylation persisted up to 48h with the combination, while histone acetylation rapidly faded with monotherapy. This represents an unexpected mechanism of action against PDAC cells that triggers transcriptional overload, metabolic stress, and augmented DNA damage. Structurally different class I HDAC inhibitors exhibit the same hyperacetylation patterns when co-administered with DMPatA, suggesting a class effect. We show efficacy of this combination regimen against tumor growth in a MIA PaCa-2 xenograft model of PDAC with persistent hyperacetylation confirmed in tumor samples. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a significant clinical challenge, could benefit from the latent potential of epigenetic therapies like HDAC inhibitors-(HDIs), typically limited to hematological malignancies. Our study shows that a synergistic low dose combination of HDIs with an eIF4A-inhibitor in pancreatic cancer models results in marked pre-clinical efficacy, offering a promising new treatment strategy.
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Ren T, Zheng Y, Liu F, Liu C, Zhang B, Ren H, Gao X, Wei Y, Sun Q, Huang H. Identification and Validation of JAM-A as a Novel Prognostic and Immune Factor in Human Tumors. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1423. [PMID: 39061997 PMCID: PMC11275048 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A), also known as F11 receptor (F11R), is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is involved in various biological processes, including cancer initiation and progression. However, the functional characteristics and significance of JAM-A in pan-cancer remain unexplored. In this study, we used multiple databases to gain a comprehensive understanding of JAM-A in human cancers. JAM-A was widely expressed in various tissues, mainly located on the microtubules and cell junctions. Aberrant expression of JAM-A was detected in multiple cancers at both mRNA and protein levels, which can be correlated with poorer prognosis and may be attributed to genetic alterations and down-regulated DNA methylation. JAM-A expression was also associated with immune infiltration and may affect immunotherapy responses in several cancers. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that JAM-A participated in tight junction and cancer-related pathways. In vitro experiments verified that JAM-A knockdown suppressed the proliferation and migration abilities of breast cancer cells and liver cancer cells. Overall, our study suggests that JAM-A is a pan-cancer regulator and a potential biomarker for predicting prognosis and immune-therapeutic responses for different tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Ren
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; (T.R.); (C.L.); (H.R.)
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - You Zheng
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - Feichang Liu
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chenyu Liu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; (T.R.); (C.L.); (H.R.)
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - Bo Zhang
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - He Ren
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; (T.R.); (C.L.); (H.R.)
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xinyue Gao
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuexian Wei
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, School of Science, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China; (Y.Z.); (F.L.); (B.Z.); (X.G.); (Y.W.)
| | - Hongyan Huang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; (T.R.); (C.L.); (H.R.)
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Ni Y, Shi M, Liu L, Lin D, Zeng H, Ong C, Wang Y. G9a in Cancer: Mechanisms, Therapeutic Advancements, and Clinical Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2175. [PMID: 38927881 PMCID: PMC11201431 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
G9a, also named EHMT2, is a histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methyltransferase responsible for catalyzing H3K9 mono- and dimethylation (H3K9me1 and H3K9me2). G9a contributes to various aspects of embryonic development and tissue differentiation through epigenetic regulation. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of G9a is frequently observed in various tumors, particularly in prostate cancer, where it contributes to cancer pathogenesis and progression. This review highlights the critical role of G9a in multiple cancer-related processes, such as epigenetic dysregulation, tumor suppressor gene silencing, cancer lineage plasticity, hypoxia adaption, and cancer progression. Despite the increased research on G9a in prostate cancer, there are still significant gaps, particularly in understanding its interactions within the tumor microenvironment and its broader epigenetic effects. Furthermore, this review discusses the recent advancements in G9a inhibitors, including the development of dual-target inhibitors that target G9a along with other epigenetic factors such as EZH2 and HDAC. It aims to bring together the existing knowledge, identify gaps in the current research, and suggest future directions for research and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchao Ni
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Mingchen Shi
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Liangliang Liu
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Dong Lin
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Hao Zeng
- Department of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Christopher Ong
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada; (M.S.); (L.L.); (D.L.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
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Vatier C, Christin-Maitre S. Epigenetic/circadian clocks and PCOS. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1167-1175. [PMID: 38600622 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae066] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 6-20% of reproductive-aged women. It is associated with increased risks of metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, mood disorders, endometrial cancer and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although various susceptibility loci have been identified through genetic studies, they account for ∼10% of PCOS heritability. Therefore, the etiology of PCOS remains unclear. This review explores the role of epigenetic changes and modifications in circadian clock genes as potential contributors to PCOS pathogenesis. Epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA changes, have been described in diseases related to PCOS, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. Furthermore, several animal models have illustrated a link between prenatal exposure to androgens or anti-Müllerian hormone and PCOS-like phenotypes in subsequent generations, illustrating an epigenetic programming in PCOS. In humans, epigenetic changes have been reported in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), adipose tissue, granulosa cells (GC), and liver from women with PCOS. The genome of women with PCOS is globally hypomethylated compared to healthy controls. However, specific hypomethylated or hypermethylated genes have been reported in the different tissues of these women. They are mainly involved in hormonal regulation and inflammatory pathways, as well as lipid and glucose metabolism. Additionally, sleep disorders are present in women with PCOS and disruptions in clock genes' expression patterns have been observed in their PBMC or GCs. While epigenetic changes hold promise as diagnostic biomarkers, the current challenge lies in distinguishing whether these changes are causes or consequences of PCOS. Targeting epigenetic modifications potentially opens avenues for precision medicine in PCOS, including lifestyle interventions and drug therapies. However, data are still lacking in large cohorts of well-characterized PCOS phenotypes. In conclusion, understanding the interplay between genetics, epigenetics, and circadian rhythms may provide valuable insights for early diagnosis and therapeutic strategies in PCOS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Vatier
- Department of Endocrine and Reproductive Medicine, Center of Endocrine Rare Diseases of Growth and Development (CRESCENDO), FIRENDO, Endo-ERN, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance-Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale (INSERM) UMR 938, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine et Institut de Cardio-Métabolisme et Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Sophie Christin-Maitre
- Department of Endocrine and Reproductive Medicine, Center of Endocrine Rare Diseases of Growth and Development (CRESCENDO), FIRENDO, Endo-ERN, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance-Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR U933, Paris, France
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15
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Wang X, Yue F. Hijacked enhancer-promoter and silencer-promoter loops in cancer. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 86:102199. [PMID: 38669773 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Recent work has shown that besides inducing fusion genes, structural variations (SVs) can also contribute to oncogenesis by disrupting the three-dimensional genome organization and dysregulating gene expression. At the chromatin-loop level, SVs can relocate enhancers or silencers from their original genomic loci to activate oncogenes or repress tumor suppressor genes. On a larger scale, different types of alterations in topologically associating domains (TADs) have been reported in cancer, such as TAD expansion, shuffling, and SV-induced neo-TADs. Furthermore, the transformation from normal cells to cancerous cells is usually coupled with active or repressive compartmental switches, and cancer-specific compartments have been proposed. This review discusses the sites, and the other latest advances in studying how SVs disrupt higher-order genome structure in cancer, which in turn leads to oncogene dysregulation. We also highlight the clinical implications of these changes and the challenges ahead in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotao Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai, China.
| | - Feng Yue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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16
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Kawaf RR, Ramadan WS, El-Awady R. Deciphering the interplay of histone post-translational modifications in cancer: Co-targeting histone modulators for precision therapy. Life Sci 2024; 346:122639. [PMID: 38615747 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Chromatin undergoes dynamic regulation through reversible histone post-translational modifications (PTMs), orchestrated by "writers," "erasers," and "readers" enzymes. Dysregulation of these histone modulators is well implicated in shaping the cancer epigenome and providing avenues for precision therapies. The approval of six drugs for cancer therapy targeting histone modulators, along with the ongoing clinical trials of numerous candidates, represents a significant advancement in the field of precision medicine. Recently, it became apparent that histone PTMs act together in a coordinated manner to control gene expression. The intricate crosstalk of histone PTMs has been reported to be dysregulated in cancer, thus emerging as a critical factor in the complex landscape of cancer development. This formed the foundation of the swift emergence of co-targeting different histone modulators as a new strategy in cancer therapy. This review dissects how histone PTMs, encompassing acetylation, phosphorylation, methylation, SUMOylation and ubiquitination, collaboratively influence the chromatin states and impact cellular processes. Furthermore, we explore the significance of histone modification crosstalk in cancer and discuss the potential of targeting histone modification crosstalk in cancer management. Moreover, we underscore the significant strides made in developing dual epigenetic inhibitors, which hold promise as emerging candidates for effective cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan R Kawaf
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wafaa S Ramadan
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raafat El-Awady
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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17
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Fan W, Li W, Li L, Qin M, Mao C, Yuan Z, Wang P, Chu B, Jiang Y. Bifunctional HDAC and DNMT inhibitor induces viral mimicry activates the innate immune response in triple-negative breast cancer. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 197:106767. [PMID: 38636781 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a unique breast cancer subtype characterized by a lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression. Since TNBC lacks ER, PR, and HER2, there are currently no drugs that specifically target TNBC. Therefore, the development of new drugs or effective treatment strategies to target TNBC has become an urgent clinical need. Research has shown that the application of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors and DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors leads to genomic and epigenomic instability. This, in turn, triggers the activation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and subsequently activates downstream interferon (IFN) signalling pathways. In this study, the bifunctional HDAC and DNMT inhibitor J208 exhibited antitumour activity in TNBC cell lines. J208 effectively induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, inhibiting cell migration and invasion in TNBC. Moreover, this bifunctional inhibitor induced the expression of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) and elicited a viral mimicry response, which increased the intracellular levels of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to activate the innate immune signalling pathway in TNBC. In summary, we demonstrated that the bifunctional inhibitor J208, which is designed to inhibit HDAC and DNMT, has potent anticancer effects, providing a new research basis for reactivating antitumour immunity by triggering innate immune signalling and offering a promising strategy for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwen Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wenkai Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lulu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Meirong Qin
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Chengzhou Mao
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zigao Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen 518057, China.
| | - Bizhu Chu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Yuyang Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Yin N, Li X, Zhang X, Xue S, Cao Y, Niedermann G, Lu Y, Xue J. Development of pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer therapeutics: current mechanistic studies and clinical opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:126. [PMID: 38773064 PMCID: PMC11109181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01826-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy represented by anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 inhibitors has revolutionized cancer treatment, but challenges related to resistance and toxicity still remain. Due to the advancement of immuno-oncology, an increasing number of novel immunoregulatory targets and mechanisms are being revealed, with relevant therapies promising to improve clinical immunotherapy in the foreseeable future. Therefore, comprehending the larger picture is important. In this review, we analyze and summarize the current landscape of preclinical and translational mechanistic research, drug development, and clinical trials that brought about next-generation pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer agents and drug candidates beyond classical immune checkpoint inhibitors. Along with further clarification of cancer immunobiology and advances in antibody engineering, agents targeting additional inhibitory immune checkpoints, including LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT, CD47, and B7 family members are becoming an important part of cancer immunotherapy research and discovery, as are structurally and functionally optimized novel anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 agents and agonists of co-stimulatory molecules of T cells. Exemplified by bispecific T cell engagers, newly emerging bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies targeting immunoregulatory molecules can provide considerable clinical benefits. Next-generation agents also include immune epigenetic drugs and cytokine-based therapeutics. Cell therapies, cancer vaccines, and oncolytic viruses are not covered in this review. This comprehensive review might aid in further development and the fastest possible clinical adoption of effective immuno-oncology modalities for the benefit of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanhao Yin
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xintong Li
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xuanwei Zhang
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shaolong Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
- Institute of Disaster Medicine & Institute of Emergency Medicine, Sichuan University, No. 17, Gaopeng Avenue, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Gabriele Niedermann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site DKTK-Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Strasse 3, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - You Lu
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Jianxin Xue
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
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19
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Du Y, Xu Y, Guo X, Tan C, Zhu X, Liu G, Lyu X, Bei C. Methylation-regulated tumor suppressor gene PDE7B promotes HCC invasion and metastasis through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:624. [PMID: 38778317 PMCID: PMC11112795 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12364-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high mortality rate, and the mechanisms underlying tumor development and progression remain unclear. However, inactivated tumor suppressor genes might play key roles. DNA methylation is a critical regulatory mechanism for inactivating tumor suppressor genes in HCC. Therefore, this study investigated methylation-related tumor suppressors in HCC to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. METHODS We assessed genome-wide DNA methylation in HCC using whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA sequencing, respectively, and identified the differential expression of methylation-related genes, and finally screened phosphodiesterase 7B (PDE7B) for the study. The correlation between PDE7B expression and clinical features was then assessed. We then analyzed the changes of PDE7B expression in HCC cells before and after DNA methyltransferase inhibitor treatment by MassArray nucleic acid mass spectrometry. Furthermore, HCC cell lines overexpressing PDE7B were constructed to investigate its effect on HCC cell function. Finally, GO and KEGG were applied for the enrichment analysis of PDE7B-related pathways, and their effects on the expression of pathway proteins and EMT-related factors in HCC cells were preliminarily explored. RESULTS HCC exhibited a genome-wide hypomethylation pattern. We screened 713 hypomethylated and 362 hypermethylated mCG regions in HCC and adjacent normal tissues. GO analysis showed that the main molecular functions of hypermethylation and hypomethylation were "DNA-binding transcriptional activator activity" and "structural component of ribosomes", respectively, whereas KEGG analysis showed that they were enriched in "bile secretion" and "Ras-associated protein-1 (Rap1) signaling pathway", respectively. PDE7B expression was significantly down-regulated in HCC tissues, and this low expression was negatively correlated with recurrence and prognosis of HCC. In addition, DNA methylation regulates PDE7B expression in HCC. On the contrary, overexpression of PDE7B inhibited tumor proliferation and metastasis in vitro. In addition, PDE7B-related genes were mainly enriched in the PI3K/ATK signaling pathway, and PDE7B overexpression inhibited the progression of PI3K/ATK signaling pathway-related proteins and EMT. CONCLUSION PDE7B expression in HCC may be regulated by promoter methylation. PDE7B can regulate the EMT process in HCC cells through the PI3K/AKT pathway, which in turn affects HCC metastasis and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanxiao Du
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
| | - Yuqiu Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Entire Lifecycle Health and Care, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Chao Tan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Entire Lifecycle Health and Care, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Xiaonian Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Entire Lifecycle Health and Care, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Guoyu Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
| | - Xiao Lyu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China
| | - Chunhua Bei
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Huan Cheng North 2nd Road 109, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Entire Lifecycle Health and Care, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China.
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20
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Zhou Y, Tao L, Qiu J, Xu J, Yang X, Zhang Y, Tian X, Guan X, Cen X, Zhao Y. Tumor biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and targeted therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:132. [PMID: 38763973 PMCID: PMC11102923 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01823-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor biomarkers, the substances which are produced by tumors or the body's responses to tumors during tumorigenesis and progression, have been demonstrated to possess critical and encouraging value in screening and early diagnosis, prognosis prediction, recurrence detection, and therapeutic efficacy monitoring of cancers. Over the past decades, continuous progress has been made in exploring and discovering novel, sensitive, specific, and accurate tumor biomarkers, which has significantly promoted personalized medicine and improved the outcomes of cancer patients, especially advances in molecular biology technologies developed for the detection of tumor biomarkers. Herein, we summarize the discovery and development of tumor biomarkers, including the history of tumor biomarkers, the conventional and innovative technologies used for biomarker discovery and detection, the classification of tumor biomarkers based on tissue origins, and the application of tumor biomarkers in clinical cancer management. In particular, we highlight the recent advancements in biomarker-based anticancer-targeted therapies which are emerging as breakthroughs and promising cancer therapeutic strategies. We also discuss limitations and challenges that need to be addressed and provide insights and perspectives to turn challenges into opportunities in this field. Collectively, the discovery and application of multiple tumor biomarkers emphasized in this review may provide guidance on improved precision medicine, broaden horizons in future research directions, and expedite the clinical classification of cancer patients according to their molecular biomarkers rather than organs of origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lei Tao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiahao Qiu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- School of Medicine, Tibet University, Lhasa, 850000, China
| | - Xinyu Tian
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xinqi Guan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaobo Cen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yinglan Zhao
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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21
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Paes T, Feelders RA, Hofland LJ. Epigenetic Mechanisms Modulated by Glucocorticoids With a Focus on Cushing Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e1424-e1433. [PMID: 38517306 PMCID: PMC11099489 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
In Cushing syndrome (CS), prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels results in a wide range of devastating effects causing multisystem morbidity. Despite the efficacy of treatment leading to disease remission and clinical improvement, hypercortisolism-induced complications may persist. Since glucocorticoids use the epigenetic machinery as a mechanism of action to modulate gene expression, the persistence of some comorbidities may be mediated by hypercortisolism-induced long-lasting epigenetic changes. Additionally, glucocorticoids influence microRNA expression, which is an important epigenetic regulator as it modulates gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Evidence suggests that chronically elevated glucocorticoid levels may induce aberrant microRNA expression which may impact several cellular processes resulting in cardiometabolic disorders. The present article reviews the evidence on epigenetic changes induced by (long-term) glucocorticoid exposure. Key aspects of some glucocorticoid-target genes and their implications in the context of CS are described. Lastly, the effects of epigenetic drugs influencing glucocorticoid effects are discussed for their ability to be potentially used as adjunctive therapy in CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ticiana Paes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, MA, USA
| | - Richard A Feelders
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leo J Hofland
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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22
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Zhou J, Zhang MY, Gao AA, Zhu C, He T, Herman JG, Guo MZ. Epigenetic silencing schlafen-11 sensitizes esophageal cancer to ATM inhibitor. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:2060-2073. [PMID: 38764821 PMCID: PMC11099458 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.2060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathway is a cutting-edge strategy. It has been reported that Schlafen-11 (SLFN11) contributes to increase chemosensitivity by participating in DDR. However, the detailed mechanism is unclear. AIM To investigate the role of SLFN11 in DDR and the application of synthetic lethal in esophageal cancer with SLFN11 defects. METHODS To reach the purpose, eight esophageal squamous carcinoma cell lines, 142 esophageal dysplasia (ED) and 1007 primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) samples and various techniques were utilized, including methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction, CRISPR/Cas9 technique, Western blot, colony formation assay, and xenograft mouse model. RESULTS Methylation of SLFN11 was exhibited in 9.15% of (13/142) ED and 25.62% of primary (258/1007) ESCC cases, and its expression was regulated by promoter region methylation. SLFN11 methylation was significantly associated with tumor differentiation and tumor size (both P < 0.05). However, no significant associations were observed between promoter region methylation and age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, TNM stage, or lymph node metastasis. Utilizing DNA damaged model induced by low dose cisplatin, SLFN11 was found to activate non-homologous end-joining and ATR/CHK1 signaling pathways, while inhibiting the ATM/CHK2 signaling pathway. Epigenetic silencing of SLFN11 was found to sensitize the ESCC cells to ATM inhibitor (AZD0156), both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION SLFN11 is frequently methylated in human ESCC. Methylation of SLFN11 is sensitive marker of ATM inhibitor in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhou
- School of Medicine, NanKai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Mei-Ying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Ai-Ai Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Cheng Zhu
- School of Medicine, NanKai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Tao He
- Departments of Pathology, Characteristic Medical Center of The Chinese People’s Armed Police Force, Tianjin 300162, China
| | - James G Herman
- The Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Ming-Zhou Guo
- School of Medicine, NanKai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
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23
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Shi TH, Sugishita H, Gotoh Y. Crosstalk within and beyond the Polycomb repressive system. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202311021. [PMID: 38506728 PMCID: PMC10955045 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202311021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of multicellular organisms depends on spatiotemporally controlled differentiation of numerous cell types and their maintenance. To generate such diversity based on the invariant genetic information stored in DNA, epigenetic mechanisms, which are heritable changes in gene function that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence, are required to establish and maintain unique gene expression programs. Polycomb repressive complexes represent a paradigm of epigenetic regulation of developmentally regulated genes, and the roles of these complexes as well as the epigenetic marks they deposit, namely H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub, have been extensively studied. However, an emerging theme from recent studies is that not only the autonomous functions of the Polycomb repressive system, but also crosstalks of Polycomb with other epigenetic modifications, are important for gene regulation. In this review, we summarize how these crosstalk mechanisms have improved our understanding of Polycomb biology and how such knowledge could help with the design of cancer treatments that target the dysregulated epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Hideyuki Shi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Sugishita
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Gotoh
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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24
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Classen AK. Tumours form without genetic mutations. Nature 2024; 629:534-535. [PMID: 38658714 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-01019-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
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25
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Parreno V, Loubiere V, Schuettengruber B, Fritsch L, Rawal CC, Erokhin M, Győrffy B, Normanno D, Di Stefano M, Moreaux J, Butova NL, Chiolo I, Chetverina D, Martinez AM, Cavalli G. Transient loss of Polycomb components induces an epigenetic cancer fate. Nature 2024; 629:688-696. [PMID: 38658752 PMCID: PMC11096130 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07328-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Although cancer initiation and progression are generally associated with the accumulation of somatic mutations1,2, substantial epigenomic alterations underlie many aspects of tumorigenesis and cancer susceptibility3-6, suggesting that genetic mechanisms might not be the only drivers of malignant transformation7. However, whether purely non-genetic mechanisms are sufficient to initiate tumorigenesis irrespective of mutations has been unknown. Here, we show that a transient perturbation of transcriptional silencing mediated by Polycomb group proteins is sufficient to induce an irreversible switch to a cancer cell fate in Drosophila. This is linked to the irreversible derepression of genes that can drive tumorigenesis, including members of the JAK-STAT signalling pathway and zfh1, the fly homologue of the ZEB1 oncogene, whose aberrant activation is required for Polycomb perturbation-induced tumorigenesis. These data show that a reversible depletion of Polycomb proteins can induce cancer in the absence of driver mutations, suggesting that tumours can emerge through epigenetic dysregulation leading to inheritance of altered cell fates.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Parreno
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - V Loubiere
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - B Schuettengruber
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - L Fritsch
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - C C Rawal
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - M Erokhin
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - B Győrffy
- Semmelweis University Department of Bioinformatics, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - D Normanno
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - M Di Stefano
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - J Moreaux
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Department of Biological Hematology, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- UFR Medicine, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - N L Butova
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - I Chiolo
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - D Chetverina
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A-M Martinez
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - G Cavalli
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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Wang H, Xiong X, Zhang J, Wu M, Gu Y, Chen Y, Gu Y, Wang P. Near-Infrared Light-Driven Nanoparticles for Cancer Photoimmunotherapy by Synergizing Immune Cell Death and Epigenetic Regulation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309202. [PMID: 38100237 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are a class of epigenetic enzymes that are closely related to tumorigenesis and suppress the expression of tumor suppressor genes. Whereas the HDACs inhibitors can release DNA into the cytoplasm and trigger innate immunity. However, the high density of chromatin limits DNA damage and release. In this study, suitable nanosized CycNHOH NPs (150 nm) and CypNHOH NPs (85 nm) efficiently accumulate at the tumor site due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. In addition, robust single-linear oxygen generation and good photothermal conversion efficiency under NIR laser irradiation accelerated the DNA damage process. By effectively initiating immune cell death, CypNHOH NPs activated both innate and adaptive immunity by maturing dendritic cells, infiltrating tumors with natural killer cells, and activating cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which offer a fresh perspective for the development of photo-immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhe Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiaohui Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Meicen Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yinhui Gu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yanli Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - YueQing Gu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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Ma W, Zhang J, Chen W, Liu N, Wu T. The histone lysine acetyltransferase KAT2B inhibits cholangiocarcinoma growth: evidence for interaction with SP1 to regulate NF2-YAP signaling. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:117. [PMID: 38641672 PMCID: PMC11027350 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03036-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly malignant cancer of the biliary tract with poor prognosis. Further mechanistic insights into the molecular mechanisms of CCA are needed to develop more effective target therapy. METHODS The expression of the histone lysine acetyltransferase KAT2B in human CCA was analyzed in human CCA tissues. CCA xenograft was developed by inoculation of human CCA cells with or without KAT2B overexpression into SCID mice. Western blotting, ChIP-qPCR, qRT-PCR, protein immunoprecipitation, GST pull-down and RNA-seq were performed to delineate KAT2B mechanisms of action in CCA. RESULTS We identified KAT2B as a frequently downregulated histone acetyltransferase in human CCA. Downregulation of KAT2B was significantly associated with CCA disease progression and poor prognosis of CCA patients. The reduction of KAT2B expression in human CCA was attributed to gene copy number loss. In experimental systems, we demonstrated that overexpression of KAT2B suppressed CCA cell proliferation and colony formation in vitro and inhibits CCA growth in mice. Mechanistically, forced overexpression of KAT2B enhanced the expression of the tumor suppressor gene NF2, which is independent of its histone acetyltransferase activity. We showed that KAT2B was recruited to the promoter region of the NF2 gene via interaction with the transcription factor SP1, which led to enhanced transcription of the NF2 gene. KAT2B-induced NF2 resulted in subsequent inhibition of YAP activity, as reflected by reduced nuclear accumulation of oncogenic YAP and inhibition of YAP downstream genes. Depletion of NF2 was able to reverse KAT2B-induced reduction of nuclear YAP and subvert KAT2B-induced inhibition of CCA cell growth. CONCLUSIONS This study provides the first evidence for an important tumor inhibitory effect of KAT2B in CCA through regulation of NF2-YAP signaling and suggests that this signaling cascade may be therapeutically targeted for CCA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Ma
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-79, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Jinqiang Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-79, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Weina Chen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-79, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Nianli Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-79, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-79, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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28
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Cheng Y, Song Z, Fang X, Tang Z. Polycomb repressive complex 2 and its core component EZH2: potential targeted therapeutic strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Epigenetics 2024; 16:54. [PMID: 38600608 PMCID: PMC11007890 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-024-01666-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The polycomb group (PcG) comprises a set of proteins that exert epigenetic regulatory effects and play crucial roles in diverse biological processes, ranging from pluripotency and development to carcinogenesis. Among these proteins, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) stands out as a catalytic component of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which plays a role in regulating the expression of homologous (Hox) genes and initial stages of x chromosome inactivation. In numerous human cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), EZH2 is frequently overexpressed or activated and has been identified as a negative prognostic factor. Notably, EZH2 emerges as a significant gene involved in regulating the STAT3/HOTAIR axis, influencing HNSCC proliferation, differentiation, and promoting metastasis by modulating related oncogenes in oral cancer. Currently, various small molecule compounds have been developed as inhibitors specifically targeting EZH2 and have gained approval for treating refractory tumors. In this review, we delve into the epigenetic regulation mediated by EZH2/PRC2 in HNSCC, with a specific focus on exploring the potential roles and mechanisms of EZH2, its crucial contribution to targeted drug therapy, and its association with cancer markers and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, we aim to unravel its potential as a therapeutic strategy for oral squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Cheng
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital and Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Academician, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Zhengzheng Song
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital and Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Academician, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaodan Fang
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital and Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Academician, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhangui Tang
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital and Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Academician, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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29
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Huttunen J, Aaltonen N, Helminen L, Rilla K, Paakinaho V. EP300/CREBBP acetyltransferase inhibition limits steroid receptor and FOXA1 signaling in prostate cancer cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:160. [PMID: 38564048 PMCID: PMC10987371 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05209-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a primary target for treating prostate cancer (PCa), forming the bedrock of its clinical management. Despite their efficacy, resistance often hampers AR-targeted therapies, necessitating new strategies against therapy-resistant PCa. These resistances involve various mechanisms, including AR splice variant overexpression and altered activities of transcription factors like the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and FOXA1. These factors rely on common coregulators, such as EP300/CREBBP, suggesting a rationale for coregulator-targeted therapies. Our study explores EP300/CREBBP acetyltransferase inhibition's impact on steroid receptor and FOXA1 signaling in PCa cells using genome-wide techniques. Results reveal that EP300/CREBBP inhibition significantly disrupts the AR-regulated transcriptome and receptor chromatin binding by reducing the AR-gene expression. Similarly, GR's regulated transcriptome and receptor binding were hindered, not linked to reduced GR expression but to diminished FOXA1 chromatin binding, restricting GR signaling. Overall, our findings highlight how EP300/CREBBP inhibition distinctively curtails oncogenic transcription factors' signaling, suggesting the potential of coregulatory-targeted therapies in PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Huttunen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Niina Aaltonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Laura Helminen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kirsi Rilla
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ville Paakinaho
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
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30
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Robey RW, Fitzsimmons CM, Guiblet WM, Frye WJ, Dalmasy JMG, Wang L, Russell DA, Huff LM, Perciaccante AJ, Ali-Rahmani F, Lipsey CC, Wade HM, Mitchell AV, Maligireddy SS, Terrero D, Butcher D, Edmondson EF, Jenkins LM, Nikitina T, Zhurkin VB, Tiwari AK, Piscopio AD, Totah RA, Bates SE, Arda HE, Gottesman MM, Batista PJ. The Methyltransferases METTL7A and METTL7B Confer Resistance to Thiol-Based Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:464-477. [PMID: 38151817 PMCID: PMC11223745 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0144] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are part of a growing class of epigenetic therapies used for the treatment of cancer. Although HDACis are effective in the treatment of T-cell lymphomas, treatment of solid tumors with this class of drugs has not been successful. Overexpression of the multidrug resistance protein P-glycoprotein (P-gp), encoded by ABCB1, is known to confer resistance to the HDACi romidepsin in vitro, yet increased ABCB1 expression has not been associated with resistance in patients, suggesting that other mechanisms of resistance arise in the clinic. To identify alternative mechanisms of resistance to romidepsin, we selected MCF-7 breast cancer cells with romidepsin in the presence of the P-gp inhibitor verapamil to reduce the likelihood of P-gp-mediated resistance. The resulting cell line, MCF-7 DpVp300, does not express P-gp and was found to be selectively resistant to romidepsin but not to other HDACis such as belinostat, panobinostat, or vorinostat. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed upregulation of the mRNA coding for the putative methyltransferase, METTL7A, whose paralog, METTL7B, was previously shown to methylate thiol groups on hydrogen sulfide and captopril. As romidepsin has a thiol as the zinc-binding moiety, we hypothesized that METTL7A could inactivate romidepsin and other thiol-based HDACis via methylation of the thiol group. We demonstrate that expression of METTL7A or METTL7B confers resistance to thiol-based HDACis and that both enzymes are capable of methylating thiol-containing HDACis. We thus propose that METTL7A and METTL7B confer resistance to thiol-based HDACis by methylating and inactivating the zinc-binding thiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W. Robey
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Christina M. Fitzsimmons
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Wilfried M. Guiblet
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- Present address: Advanced Biomedical Computational Science, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD
| | - William J.E. Frye
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - José M. González Dalmasy
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Li Wang
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Developmental Genomics Group, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Drake A. Russell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Lyn M. Huff
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Andrew J. Perciaccante
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Fatima Ali-Rahmani
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- Present Address: Taiho Pharmaceutical, Princeton, NJ
| | - Crystal C. Lipsey
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Heidi M. Wade
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Allison V. Mitchell
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Siddhardha S. Maligireddy
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - David Terrero
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Cancer Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH
| | - Donna Butcher
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Elijah F. Edmondson
- Molecular Histopathology Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Lisa M. Jenkins
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Tatiana Nikitina
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Victor B. Zhurkin
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Amit K. Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Cancer Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH
| | | | - Rheem A. Totah
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Susan E. Bates
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY and Hematology/Oncology Research Department, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - H. Efsun Arda
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, Developmental Genomics Group, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Michael M. Gottesman
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Pedro J. Batista
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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31
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Livshits G, Kalinkovich A. Restoration of epigenetic impairment in the skeletal muscle and chronic inflammation resolution as a therapeutic approach in sarcopenia. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102267. [PMID: 38462046 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102267] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Sarcopenia is an age-associated loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, accompanied by severe adverse health outcomes, such as falls and fractures, functional decline, high health costs, and mortality. Hence, its prevention and treatment have become increasingly urgent. However, despite the wide prevalence and extensive research on sarcopenia, no FDA-approved disease-modifying drugs exist. This is probably due to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology. Recent evidence demonstrate that sarcopenia development is characterized by two key elements: (i) epigenetic dysregulation of multiple molecular pathways associated with sarcopenia pathogenesis, such as protein remodeling, insulin resistance, mitochondria impairments, and (ii) the creation of a systemic, chronic, low-grade inflammation (SCLGI). In this review, we focus on the epigenetic regulators that have been implicated in skeletal muscle deterioration, their individual roles, and possible crosstalk. We also discuss epidrugs, which are the pharmaceuticals with the potential to restore the epigenetic mechanisms deregulated in sarcopenia. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms underlying failed SCLGI resolution in sarcopenia and the potential application of pro-resolving molecules, comprising specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and their stable mimetics and receptor agonists. These compounds, as well as epidrugs, reveal beneficial effects in preclinical studies related to sarcopenia. Based on these encouraging observations, we propose the combination of epidrugs with SCLI-resolving agents as a new therapeutic approach for sarcopenia that can effectively attenuate of its manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Livshits
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 4077625, Israel; Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6905126, Israel.
| | - Alexander Kalinkovich
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6905126, Israel
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32
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Li NN, Lun DX, Gong N, Meng G, Du XY, Wang H, Bao X, Li XY, Song JW, Hu K, Li L, Li SY, Liu W, Zhu W, Zhang Y, Li J, Yao T, Mou L, Han X, Hao F, Hu Y, Liu L, Zhu H, Wu Y, Liu B. Targeting the chromatin structural changes of antitumor immunity. J Pharm Anal 2024; 14:100905. [PMID: 38665224 PMCID: PMC11043877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2023.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenomic imbalance drives abnormal transcriptional processes, promoting the onset and progression of cancer. Although defective gene regulation generally affects carcinogenesis and tumor suppression networks, tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses may also be affected by epigenomic changes, which may have significant implications for the development and application of epigenetic therapy, cancer immunotherapy, and their combinations. Herein, we focus on the impact of epigenetic regulation on tumor immune cell function and the role of key abnormal epigenetic processes, DNA methylation, histone post-translational modification, and chromatin structure in tumor immunogenicity, and introduce these epigenetic research methods. We emphasize the value of small-molecule inhibitors of epigenetic modulators in enhancing antitumor immune responses and discuss the challenges of developing treatment plans that combine epigenetic therapy and immunotherapy through the complex interaction between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian-nian Li
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
- School of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Deng-xing Lun
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Ningning Gong
- Weifang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Gang Meng
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Sericulture, Ankang University, Ankang, Shaanxi, 725000, China
| | - Xin-ying Du
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - He Wang
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Xiangxiang Bao
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Xin-yang Li
- Guizhou Education University, Guiyang, 550018, China
| | - Ji-wu Song
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Kewei Hu
- Weifang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Lala Li
- Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Si-ying Li
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Wanping Zhu
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Yunlong Zhang
- School of Medical Imaging, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, China
| | - Jikai Li
- Department of Bone and Soft Tissue Oncology, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, 300299, China
| | - Ting Yao
- School of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Teda Institute of Biological Sciences & Biotechnology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Leming Mou
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Xiaoqing Han
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Furong Hao
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Yongcheng Hu
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Lin Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Hongguang Zhu
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Yuyun Wu
- Xinqiao Hospital of Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
- School of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Teda Institute of Biological Sciences & Biotechnology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300457, China
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33
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Chen Z, Li C, Zhou Y, Li P, Cao G, Qiao Y, Yao Y, Su J. Histone 3 lysine 9 acetylation-specific reprogramming regulates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression and metastasis. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:612-626. [PMID: 38291129 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00738-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulation of histone acetylation is widely implicated in tumorigenesis, yet its specific roles in the progression and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain unclear. Here, we profiled the genome-wide landscapes of H3K9ac for paired adjacent normal (Nor), primary ESCC (EC) and metastatic lymph node (LNC) esophageal tissues from three ESCC patients. Compared to H3K27ac, we identified a distinct epigenetic reprogramming specific to H3K9ac in EC and LNC samples relative to Nor samples. This H3K9ac-related reprogramming contributed to the transcriptomic aberration of targeting genes, which were functionally associated with tumorigenesis and metastasis. Notably, genes with gained H3K9ac signals in both primary and metastatic lymph node samples (common-gained gene) were significantly enriched in oncogenes. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis further revealed that the corresponding top 15 common-gained genes preferred to be enriched in mesenchymal cells with high metastatic potential. Additionally, in vitro experiment demonstrated that the removal of H3K9ac from the common-gained gene MSI1 significantly downregulated its transcription, resulting in deficiencies in ESCC cell proliferation and migration. Together, our findings revealed the distinct characteristics of H3K9ac in esophageal squamous cell carcinogenesis and metastasis, and highlighted the potential therapeutic avenue for intervening ESCC through epigenetic modulation via H3K9ac.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhui Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health, Wenzhou, 325101, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chenghao Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325011, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325011, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guoquan Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunbo Qiao
- Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200125, China
| | - Yinghao Yao
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health, Wenzhou, 325101, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jianzhong Su
- School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health, Wenzhou, 325101, Zhejiang, China.
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325011, Zhejiang, China.
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Filiú-Braga LDDC, Silva-Carvalho AÉ, Sousa MRR, Carvalho JL, Saldanha-Araujo F. Molecular and functional anticancer effects of GLP/G9a inhibition by UNC0646 in MeWo melanoma cells. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27085. [PMID: 38434406 PMCID: PMC10907798 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, histone methyltransferases (HMTs) have emerged as important therapeutic targets in cancer due to their oncogenic role. Herein, we used the GLP/G9a inhibitor UNC0646 to assess whether the inhibition of such HMTs could induce cell death in MeWo melanoma cells. Furthermore, we investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the observed cell death events. Finally, we performed a functional genomics analysis of 480 melanoma samples to characterize G9a/GLP involvement in melanoma. Interestingly, after UNC0646 treatment, MeWo cells underwent apoptosis, followed by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, MeWo cells treated with UNC0646 showed cell cycle arrest and inhibition of proliferation. At the molecular level, UNC0646 treatment increased the transcriptional levels of CDK1 and BAX, and decreased BCL-2 mRNA levels. Finally, we performed a functional enrichment analysis, which demonstrated that dozens of biological pathways were enriched in melanoma samples according to GLP and G9a expression, including apoptosis and necrosis. Taken together, our data show that inhibition of GLP/G9a using UNC0646 exerts anticancer effects on melanoma cells by controlling their proliferation and inducing apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda Évelin Silva-Carvalho
- Laboratório de Hematologia e Células-Tronco, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília-DF, Brazil
| | - Marielly Reis Resende Sousa
- Laboratório de Hematologia e Células-Tronco, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília-DF, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lott Carvalho
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Biociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília-DF, Brazil
| | - Felipe Saldanha-Araujo
- Laboratório de Hematologia e Células-Tronco, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília-DF, Brazil
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35
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Stolfi C. Editorial for the Special Issue "Latest Review Papers in Molecular Oncology 2023". Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3257. [PMID: 38542229 PMCID: PMC10970545 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Human cancers are products of multistep processes resulting in abnormal cell growth and differentiation, along with a loss of apoptotic function, leading to the uncontrolled expansion of neoplastic cells and their spread to surrounding tissues and, ultimately, distant parts of the body [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Stolfi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy
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36
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Bisht S, Mao Y, Easwaran H. Epigenetic dynamics of aging and cancer development: current concepts from studies mapping aging and cancer epigenomes. Curr Opin Oncol 2024; 36:82-92. [PMID: 38441107 PMCID: PMC10939788 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000001020] [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] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review emphasizes the role of epigenetic processes as incidental changes occurring during aging, which, in turn, promote the development of cancer. RECENT FINDINGS Aging is a complex biological process associated with the progressive deterioration of normal physiological functions, making age a significant risk factor for various disorders, including cancer. The increasing longevity of the population has made cancer a global burden, as the risk of developing most cancers increases with age due to the cumulative effect of exposure to environmental carcinogens and DNA replication errors. The classical 'somatic mutation theory' of cancer cause is being challenged by the observation that multiple normal cells harbor cancer driver mutations without resulting in cancer. In this review, we discuss the role of age-associated epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation, which occur across all cell types and tissues with advancing age. There is an increasing body of evidence linking these changes with cancer risk and prognosis. SUMMARY A better understanding about the epigenetic changes acquired during aging is critical for comprehending the mechanisms leading to the age-associated increase in cancer and for developing novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Bisht
- Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yiqing Mao
- Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hariharan Easwaran
- Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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37
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Achinger-Kawecka J, Stirzaker C, Portman N, Campbell E, Chia KM, Du Q, Laven-Law G, Nair SS, Yong A, Wilkinson A, Clifton S, Milioli HH, Alexandrou S, Caldon CE, Song J, Khoury A, Meyer B, Chen W, Pidsley R, Qu W, Gee JMW, Schmitt A, Wong ES, Hickey TE, Lim E, Clark SJ. The potential of epigenetic therapy to target the 3D epigenome in endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:498-512. [PMID: 38182927 PMCID: PMC10948365 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01181-7] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) epigenome remodeling is an important mechanism of gene deregulation in cancer. However, its potential as a target to counteract therapy resistance remains largely unaddressed. Here, we show that epigenetic therapy with decitabine (5-Aza-mC) suppresses tumor growth in xenograft models of pre-clinical metastatic estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast tumor. Decitabine-induced genome-wide DNA hypomethylation results in large-scale 3D epigenome deregulation, including de-compaction of higher-order chromatin structure and loss of boundary insulation of topologically associated domains. Significant DNA hypomethylation associates with ectopic activation of ER-enhancers, gain in ER binding, creation of new 3D enhancer-promoter interactions and concordant up-regulation of ER-mediated transcription pathways. Importantly, long-term withdrawal of epigenetic therapy partially restores methylation at ER-enhancer elements, resulting in a loss of ectopic 3D enhancer-promoter interactions and associated gene repression. Our study illustrates the potential of epigenetic therapy to target ER+ endocrine-resistant breast cancer by DNA methylation-dependent rewiring of 3D chromatin interactions, which are associated with the suppression of tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Achinger-Kawecka
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Clare Stirzaker
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Neil Portman
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elyssa Campbell
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kee-Ming Chia
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Qian Du
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geraldine Laven-Law
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Shalima S Nair
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aliza Yong
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Wilkinson
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samuel Clifton
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Heloisa H Milioli
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Alexandrou
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - C Elizabeth Caldon
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jenny Song
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amanda Khoury
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Braydon Meyer
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wenhan Chen
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ruth Pidsley
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wenjia Qu
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julia M W Gee
- Breast Cancer Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | | | - Emily S Wong
- Victor Chang Cardiac Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Theresa E Hickey
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Elgene Lim
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan J Clark
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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38
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Wang A, Zheng WS, Luo Z, Bai L, Zhang S. The innovative checkpoint inhibitors of lung adenocarcinoma, cg09897064 methylation and ZBP1 expression reduction, have implications for macrophage polarization and tumor growth in lung cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:173. [PMID: 38369516 PMCID: PMC10874569 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04995-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, a prevalent and aggressive disease, is characterized by recurrence and drug resistance. It is essential to comprehend the fundamental processes and discover novel therapeutic objectives for augmenting treatment results. Based on our research findings, we have identified a correlation between methylation of cg09897064 and decreased expression of ZBP1, indicating a link to unfavorable prognosis in patients with lung cancer. Furthermore, these factors play a role in macrophage polarization, with ZBP1 upregulated in M1 macrophages compared to both M0 and M2 polarized macrophages. We observed cg09897064 methylation in M2 polarization, but not in M0 and M1 polarized macrophages. ATACseq analysis revealed closed chromatin accessibility of ZBP1 in M0 polarized macrophages, while open accessibility was observed in both M1 and M2 polarized macrophages. Our findings suggest that ZBP1 is downregulated in M0 polarized macrophages due to closed chromatin accessibility and downregulated in M2 polarized macrophages due to cg09897064 methylation. Further investigations manipulating cg09897064 methylation and ZBP1 expression through overexpression plasmids and shRNAs provided evidence for their role in modulating macrophage polarization and tumor growth. ZBP1 inhibits M2 polarization and suppresses tumor growth, while cg09897064 methylation promotes M2 polarization and macrophage-induced tumor growth. In mechanism investigations, we found that cg09897064 methylation impairs CEBPA binding to the ZBP1 promoter, leading to decreased ZBP1 expression. Clinical experiments were conducted to validate the correlation between methylation at cg09897064, ZBP1 expression, and macrophage M2 polarization. Targeting these factors may hold promise as a strategy for developing innovative checkpoint inhibitors in lung cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailing Wang
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Wei-Sha Zheng
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen Luo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Lian Bai
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shi Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Xu D, Bewicke-Copley F, Close K, Okosun J, Gale RP, Apperley J, Weinstock DM, Wendel HG, Fitzgibbon J. Targeting lysine demethylase 5 (KDM5) in mantle cell lymphoma. Blood Cancer J 2024; 14:29. [PMID: 38351059 PMCID: PMC10864367 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-024-00999-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Danmei Xu
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK.
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK.
- Centre for Haematology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, UK.
- Oxford Cancer and Haematology centre, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK.
| | - Findlay Bewicke-Copley
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK
| | - Karina Close
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK
| | - Jessica Okosun
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK
| | - Robert Peter Gale
- Centre for Haematology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, UK
| | - Jane Apperley
- Centre for Haematology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, UK
| | - David M Weinstock
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Merck and Co., Rahway, NJ, USA
| | - Hans-Guido Wendel
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Cancer Biology & Genetics, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jude Fitzgibbon
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Sq, London, UK
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Daily KP, Badr A, Eltobgy M, Estfanous S, Whitham O, Tan MH, Carafice C, Krause K, McNamara A, Hamilton K, Houle S, Gupta S, Gupta GA, Madhu S, Fitzgerald J, Saadey AA, Laster B, Yan P, Webb A, Zhang X, Pietrzak M, Kokiko-Cochran ON, Ghoneim HE, Amer AO. DNA hypomethylation promotes the expression of CASPASE-4 which exacerbates inflammation and amyloid-β deposition in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:29. [PMID: 38326859 PMCID: PMC10851453 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01390-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the sixth leading cause of death in the USA. It is established that neuroinflammation contributes to the synaptic loss, neuronal death, and symptomatic decline of AD patients. Accumulating evidence suggests a critical role for microglia, innate immune phagocytes of the brain. For instance, microglia release pro-inflammatory products such as IL-1β which is highly implicated in AD pathobiology. The mechanisms underlying the transition of microglia to proinflammatory promoters of AD remain largely unknown. To address this gap, we performed reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) to profile global DNA methylation changes in human AD brains compared to no disease controls. We identified differential DNA methylation of CASPASE-4 (CASP4), which when expressed promotes the generation of IL-1β and is predominantly expressed in immune cells. DNA upstream of the CASP4 transcription start site was hypomethylated in human AD brains, which was correlated with increased expression of CASP4. Furthermore, microglia from a mouse model of AD (5xFAD) express increased levels of CASP4 compared to wild-type (WT) mice. To study the role of CASP4 in AD, we developed a novel mouse model of AD lacking the mouse ortholog of CASP4 and CASP11, which is encoded by mouse Caspase-4 (5xFAD/Casp4-/-). The expression of CASP11 was associated with increased accumulation of pathologic protein aggregate amyloid-β (Aβ) and increased microglial production of IL-1β in 5xFAD mice. Utilizing RNA-sequencing, we determined that CASP11 promotes unique transcriptomic phenotypes in 5xFAD mouse brains, including alterations of neuroinflammatory and chemokine signaling pathways. Notably, in vitro, CASP11 promoted generation of IL-1β from macrophages in response to cytosolic Aβ through cleavage of downstream effector Gasdermin D (GSDMD). Therefore, here we unravel the role for CASP11 and GSDMD in the generation of IL-1β in response to Aβ and the progression of pathologic inflammation in AD. Overall, our results demonstrate that overexpression of CASP4 due to differential DNA methylation in AD microglia contributes to the progression of AD pathobiology. Thus, we identify CASP4 as a potential target for immunotherapies for the treatment and prevention of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylene P Daily
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Asmaa Badr
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Clinical Pathology Department, College of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Eltobgy
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Shady Estfanous
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Owen Whitham
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Michelle H Tan
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Cierra Carafice
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Kathrin Krause
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Max Planck Unit for the Science of Pathogens, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrew McNamara
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Kaitlin Hamilton
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Samuel Houle
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Spandan Gupta
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Gauruv A Gupta
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Shruthi Madhu
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Julie Fitzgerald
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Abbey A Saadey
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Brooke Laster
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Pearlly Yan
- Genomics Shared Resource, Department of Internal Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Amy Webb
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Center for Biostatistics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Maciej Pietrzak
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Hazem E Ghoneim
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Amal O Amer
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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Gu M, Ren B, Fang Y, Ren J, Liu X, Wang X, Zhou F, Xiao R, Luo X, You L, Zhao Y. Epigenetic regulation in cancer. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e495. [PMID: 38374872 PMCID: PMC10876210 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are defined as heritable changes in gene activity that do not involve changes in the underlying DNA sequence. The oncogenic process is driven by the accumulation of alterations that impact genome's structure and function. Genetic mutations, which directly disrupt the DNA sequence, are complemented by epigenetic modifications that modulate gene expression, thereby facilitating the acquisition of malignant characteristics. Principals among these epigenetic changes are shifts in DNA methylation and histone mark patterns, which promote tumor development and metastasis. Notably, the reversible nature of epigenetic alterations, as opposed to the permanence of genetic changes, positions the epigenetic machinery as a prime target in the discovery of novel therapeutics. Our review delves into the complexities of epigenetic regulation, exploring its profound effects on tumor initiation, metastatic behavior, metabolic pathways, and the tumor microenvironment. We place a particular emphasis on the dysregulation at each level of epigenetic modulation, including but not limited to, the aberrations in enzymes responsible for DNA methylation and histone modification, subunit loss or fusions in chromatin remodeling complexes, and the disturbances in higher-order chromatin structure. Finally, we also evaluate therapeutic approaches that leverage the growing understanding of chromatin dysregulation, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minzhi Gu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Feihan Zhou
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Ruiling Xiao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiyuan Luo
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
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Orlacchio A, Muzyka S, Gonda TA. Epigenetic therapeutic strategies in pancreatic cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 383:1-40. [PMID: 38359967 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal solid malignancies, characterized by its aggressiveness and metastatic potential, with a 5-year survival rate of only 8-11%. Despite significant improvements in PDAC treatment and management, therapeutic alternatives are still limited. One of the main reasons is its high degree of intra- and inter-individual tumor heterogeneity which is established and maintained through a complex network of transcription factors and epigenetic regulators. Epigenetic drugs, have shown promising preclinical results in PDAC and are currently being evaluated in clinical trials both for their ability to sensitize cancer cells to cytotoxic drugs and to counteract the immunosuppressive characteristic of PDAC tumor microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the current status of epigenetic treatment strategies to overcome molecular and cellular PDAC heterogeneity in order to improve response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Orlacchio
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephen Muzyka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tamas A Gonda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York University, New York, NY, United States.
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Karagiannis D, Wu W, Li A, Hayashi M, Chen X, Yip M, Mangipudy V, Xu X, Sánchez-Rivera FJ, Soto-Feliciano YM, Ye J, Papagiannakopoulos T, Lu C. Metabolic reprogramming by histone deacetylase inhibition preferentially targets NRF2-activated tumors. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113629. [PMID: 38165806 PMCID: PMC10853943 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The interplay between metabolism and chromatin signaling is implicated in cancer progression. However, whether and how metabolic reprogramming in tumors generates chromatin vulnerabilities remain unclear. Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumors frequently harbor aberrant activation of the NRF2 antioxidant pathway, which drives aggressive and chemo-resistant disease. Using a chromatin-focused CRISPR screen, we report that NRF2 activation sensitizes LUAD cells to genetic and chemical inhibition of class I histone deacetylases (HDACs). This association is observed across cultured cells, mouse models, and patient-derived xenografts. Integrative epigenomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analysis demonstrates that HDAC inhibition causes widespread redistribution of H4ac and its reader protein, which transcriptionally downregulates metabolic enzymes. This results in reduced flux into amino acid metabolism and de novo nucleotide synthesis pathways that are preferentially required for the survival of NRF2-active cancer cells. Together, our findings suggest NRF2 activation as a potential biomarker for effective repurposing of HDAC inhibitors to treat solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Karagiannis
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Warren Wu
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Albert Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Makiko Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Michaela Yip
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Vaibhav Mangipudy
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Xinjing Xu
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Francisco J Sánchez-Rivera
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Yadira M Soto-Feliciano
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jiangbin Ye
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Laura and Isaac Perlmutter NYU Cancer Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Chao Lu
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Eslami M, Memarsadeghi O, Davarpanah A, Arti A, Nayernia K, Behnam B. Overcoming Chemotherapy Resistance in Metastatic Cancer: A Comprehensive Review. Biomedicines 2024; 12:183. [PMID: 38255288 PMCID: PMC10812960 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of metastatic cancer is complicated by chemotherapy resistance. This manuscript provides a comprehensive academic review of strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance in metastatic cancer. The manuscript presents background information on chemotherapy resistance in metastatic cancer cells, highlighting its clinical significance and the current challenges associated with using chemotherapy to treat metastatic cancer. The manuscript delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy resistance in subsequent sections. It discusses the genetic alterations, mutations, and epigenetic modifications that contribute to the development of resistance. Additionally, the role of altered drug metabolism and efflux mechanisms, as well as the activation of survival pathways and evasion of cell death, are explored in detail. The strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance are thoroughly examined, covering various approaches that have shown promise. These include combination therapy approaches, targeted therapies, immunotherapeutic strategies, and the repurposing of existing drugs. Each strategy is discussed in terms of its rationale and potential effectiveness. Strategies for early detection and monitoring of chemotherapy drug resistance, rational drug design vis-a-vis personalized medicine approaches, the role of predictive biomarkers in guiding treatment decisions, and the importance of lifestyle modifications and supportive therapies in improving treatment outcomes are discussed. Lastly, the manuscript outlines the clinical implications of the discussed strategies. It provides insights into ongoing clinical trials and emerging therapies that address chemotherapy resistance in metastatic cancer cells. The manuscript also explores the challenges and opportunities in translating laboratory findings into clinical practice and identifies potential future directions and novel therapeutic avenues. This comprehensive review provides a detailed analysis of strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance in metastatic cancer. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance and presents a range of approaches for addressing this critical issue in treating metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Eslami
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran; (M.E.); (O.M.); (A.D.)
- International Faculty, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
| | - Omid Memarsadeghi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran; (M.E.); (O.M.); (A.D.)
- International Faculty, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
| | - Ali Davarpanah
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran; (M.E.); (O.M.); (A.D.)
- International Faculty, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1949635881, Iran
| | - Afshin Arti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1469669191, Iran;
| | - Karim Nayernia
- International Center for Personalized Medicine (P7Medicine), 40235 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Babak Behnam
- Department of Regulatory Affairs, Amarex Clinical Research, NSF International, Germantown, MD 20874, USA
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Knodel F, Pinter S, Kroll C, Rathert P. Fluorescent Reporter Systems to Investigate Chromatin Effector Proteins in Living Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2842:225-252. [PMID: 39012599 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4051-7_12] [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] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic research faces the challenge of the high complexity and tight regulation in chromatin modification networks. Although many isolated mechanisms of chromatin-mediated gene regulation have been described, solid approaches for the comprehensive analysis of specific processes as parts of the bigger epigenome network are missing. In order to expand the toolbox of methods by a system that will help to capture and describe the complexity of transcriptional regulation, we describe here a robust protocol for the generation of stable reporter systems for transcriptional activity and summarize their applications. The system allows for the induced recruitment of a chromatin regulator to a fluorescent reporter gene, followed by the detection of transcriptional changes using flow cytometry. The reporter gene is integrated into an endogenous chromatin environment, thus enabling the detection of regulatory dependencies of the investigated chromatin regulator on endogenous cofactors. The system allows for an easy and dynamic readout at the single-cell level and the ability to compensate for cell-to-cell variances of transcription. The modular design of the system enables the simple adjustment of the method for the investigation of different chromatin regulators in a broad panel of cell lines. We also summarize applications of this technology to characterize the silencing velocity of different chromatin effectors, removal of activating histone modifications, analysis of stability and reversibility of epigenome modifications, the investigation of the effects of small molecule on chromatin effectors and of functional effector-coregulator relationships. The presented method allows to investigate the complexity of transcriptional regulation by epigenetic effector proteins in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Knodel
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sabine Pinter
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Carolin Kroll
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Philipp Rathert
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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Yuan Y, Dong X, Yin S, Zhang G, Zhou H, Li G, Tang Y, Wei X, Zhang H. Focal adhesions Kindlin-1 and Kindlin-2 affected by epigenetic modifying in hepatocarcinogenesis. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1517. [PMID: 38204199 PMCID: PMC10782135 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yuan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, and EmbryologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Xiaona Dong
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Shengju Yin
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Guoliang Zhang
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Department of PharmacyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Guohui Li
- Department of PharmacyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yan Tang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, and EmbryologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Xiaofan Wei
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, and EmbryologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Hongquan Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, and EmbryologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
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Andreescu M. Epigenetic Alterations That Are the Backbone of Immune Evasion in T-cell Malignancies. Cureus 2024; 16:e51662. [PMID: 38179322 PMCID: PMC10766007 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations are heritable and enduring modifications in gene expression that play a pivotal role in immune evasion. These include alterations to noncoding RNA, DNA methylation, and histone modifications. DNA methylation plays a crucial role in normal cell growth and development but alterations in methylation patterns such as hypermethylation or hypomethylation can enable tumor and viral cells to evade host immune responses. Histone modifications can also inhibit immune responses by promoting the expression of genes involved in suppressing normal immune function. In the case of T-cell lymphoma, adult T-cell lymphomas (ATL) also undergo immune evasion through the exceptional function of its accessory and regulatory genes. Epigenetic therapies are emerging as a promising adjunct to traditional immunotherapy and chemotherapy regimens. Clinical trials are currently investigating the use of epigenetic therapies in combination with immunotherapies and chemotherapies for more effective treatment of ATL and other cancers. This review highlights epigenetic alterations that are widely found in T-cell malignancies.
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48
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de Oliveira Filho RS, de Oliveira DA, Nisimoto MM, Marti LC. A Review of Advanced Cutaneous Melanoma Therapies and Their Mechanisms, from Immunotherapies to Lysine Histone Methyl Transferase Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5751. [PMID: 38136297 PMCID: PMC10741407 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced cutaneous melanoma is considered to be the most aggressive type of skin cancer and has variable rates of treatment response. Currently, there are some classes of immunotherapy and target therapies for its treatment. Immunotherapy can inhibit tumor growth and its recurrence by triggering the host's immune system, whereas targeted therapy inhibits specific molecules or signaling pathways. However, melanoma responses to these treatments are highly heterogeneous, and patients can develop resistance. Epigenomics (DNA/histone modifications) contribute to cancer initiation and progression. Epigenetic alterations are divided into four levels of gene expression regulation: DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA regulation. Deregulation of lysine methyltransferase enzymes is associated with tumor initiation, invasion, development of metastases, changes in the immune microenvironment, and drug resistance. The study of lysine histone methyltransferase (KMT) and nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) inhibitors is important for understanding cancer epigenetic mechanisms and biological processes. In addition to immunotherapy and target therapy, the research and development of KMT and NNMT inhibitors is ongoing. Many studies are exploring the therapeutic implications and possible side effects of these compounds, in addition to their adjuvant potential to the approved current therapies. Importantly, as with any drug development, safety, efficacy, and specificity are crucial considerations when developing methyltransferase inhibitors for clinical applications. Thus, this review article presents the recently available therapies and those in development for advanced cutaneous melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Santos de Oliveira Filho
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina–Universidade Federal de São Paulo–EPM-UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Arcuschin de Oliveira
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo–UNIFESP-Skin Cancer and Melanoma Fellow, São Paulo 04023-900, SP, Brazil;
| | | | - Luciana Cavalheiro Marti
- Experimental Research Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, SP, Brazil
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49
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Booth GT, Daza RM, Srivatsan SR, McFaline-Figueroa JL, Gladden RG, Mullen AC, Furlan SN, Shendure J, Trapnell C. High-capacity sample multiplexing for single cell chromatin accessibility profiling. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:737. [PMID: 38049719 PMCID: PMC10696879 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09832-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell chromatin accessibility has emerged as a powerful means of understanding the epigenetic landscape of diverse tissues and cell types, but profiling cells from many independent specimens is challenging and costly. Here we describe a novel approach, sciPlex-ATAC-seq, which uses unmodified DNA oligos as sample-specific nuclear labels, enabling the concurrent profiling of chromatin accessibility within single nuclei from virtually unlimited specimens or experimental conditions. We first demonstrate our method with a chemical epigenomics screen, in which we identify drug-altered distal regulatory sites predictive of compound- and dose-dependent effects on transcription. We then analyze cell type-specific chromatin changes in PBMCs from multiple donors responding to synthetic and allogeneic immune stimulation. We quantify stimulation-altered immune cell compositions and isolate the unique effects of allogeneic stimulation on chromatin accessibility specific to T-lymphocytes. Finally, we observe that impaired global chromatin decondensation often coincides with chemical inhibition of allogeneic T-cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory T Booth
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Riza M Daza
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sanjay R Srivatsan
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - José L McFaline-Figueroa
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Rula Green Gladden
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew C Mullen
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Scott N Furlan
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jay Shendure
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Allen Discovery Center for Cell Lineage Tracing, Seattle, WA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cole Trapnell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Allen Discovery Center for Cell Lineage Tracing, Seattle, WA, USA.
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50
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Li S, Wei Y, Sun X, Liu M, Zhu M, Yuan Y, Zhang J, Dong Y, Hu K, Ma S, Zhang X, Xu B, Jiang H, Gan L, Liu T. JUNB mediates oxaliplatin resistance via the MAPK signaling pathway in gastric cancer by chromatin accessibility and transcriptomic analysis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1784-1796. [PMID: 37337631 PMCID: PMC10679881 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, platinum-containing regimens are the most commonly used regimens for advanced gastric cancer patients, and chemotherapy resistance is one of the main reasons for treatment failure. Thus, it is important to reveal the mechanism of oxaliplatin resistance and to seek effective intervention strategies to improve chemotherapy sensitivity, thereby improving the survival and prognosis of gastric cancer patients. To understand the molecular mechanisms of oxaliplatin resistance, we generate an oxaliplatin-resistant gastric cancer cell line and conduct assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) for both parental and oxaliplatin-resistant AGS cells. A total of 3232 genomic regions are identified to have higher accessibility in oxaliplatin-resistant cells, and DNA-binding motif analysis identifies JUNB as the core transcription factor in the regulatory network. JUNB is overexpressed in oxaliplatin-resistant gastric cancer cells, and its upregulation is associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer patients, which is validated by our tissue microarray data. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) analysis reveals that JUNB binds to the transcriptional start site of key genes involved in the MAPK signaling pathway. Knockdown of JUNB inhibits the MAPK signaling pathway and restores sensitivity to oxaliplatin. Combined treatment with the ERK inhibitor piperlongumine or MEK inhibitor trametinib effectively overcomes oxaliplatin resistance. This study provides evidence that JUNB mediates oxaliplatin resistance in gastric cancer by activating the MAPK pathway. The combination of MAPK inhibitors with oxaliplatin overcomes resistance to oxaliplatin, providing a promising treatment opportunity for oxaliplatin-resistant gastric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyao Li
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Yichou Wei
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Xun Sun
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Mengling Liu
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Mengxuan Zhu
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Yitao Yuan
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Jiayu Zhang
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Yu Dong
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Keshu Hu
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Sining Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyZhongshan HospitalShanghai200032China
| | - Xiuping Zhang
- Department of OncologyZhongshan Hospital (Xiamen)Fudan UniversityXiamen361004China
| | - Bei Xu
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- Cancer CenterZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Hesheng Jiang
- Department of SurgerySouthwest HealthcareSouthern California Medical Education ConsortiumTemecula Valley HospitalTemeculaCA92592USA
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- Cancer CenterZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical OncologyZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- Cancer CenterZhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200032China
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