1
|
Li C, Ajmal E, Alok K, Powell K, Wadolowski S, Tambo W, Turpin J, Barthélemy E, Al-Abed Y, LeDoux D. CGRP as a potential mediator for the sexually dimorphic responses to traumatic brain injury. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:44. [PMID: 38816868 PMCID: PMC11138127 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00619-x] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The outcomes of traumatic brain injury (TBI) exhibit variance contingent upon biological sex. Although female sex hormones exert neuroprotective effects, the administration of estrogen and progesterone has not yielded conclusive results. Hence, it is conceivable that additional mediators, distinct from female sex hormones, merit consideration due to their potential differential impact on TBI outcomes. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) exhibits sexually dimorphic expression and demonstrates neuroprotective effects in acute brain injuries. In this study, we aimed to examine sex-based variations in TBI structural and functional outcomes with respect to CGRP expression. METHODS Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to controlled cortical impact to induce severe TBI, followed by interventions with and without CGRP inhibition. In the acute phase of TBI, the study centered on elucidating the influence of CGRP on oxidative stress, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling in the peri-impact tissue. Subsequently, during the chronic phase of TBI, the investigation expanded to evaluate CGRP expression in relation to lesion volume, microvascular dysfunction, and white matter injury, as well as working and spatial memory, anxiety-like, and depression-like behaviors in subjects of both sexes. RESULTS Female rats exhibited elevated levels of CGRP in the peri-impact brain tissue during both baseline conditions and in the acute and chronic phases of TBI, in comparison to age-matched male counterparts. Enhanced CGRP levels in specific brain sub-regions among female rats correlated with superior structural and functional outcomes following TBI compared to their male counterparts. CGRP inhibition induced heightened oxidative stress and a reduction in the expression of Nrf2 and eNOS in both male and female rats, with the observed alteration being more pronounced in females than in males. CONCLUSIONS This study marks the inaugural identification of CGRP as a downstream mediator contributing to the sexually dimorphic response observed in TBI outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| | - Erum Ajmal
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Division of Neurosurgery, SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Khaled Alok
- Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Keren Powell
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Steven Wadolowski
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Willians Tambo
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Justin Turpin
- Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Ernest Barthélemy
- Division of Neurosurgery, SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Yousef Al-Abed
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - David LeDoux
- Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rymbai E, Sugumar D, Chakkittukandiyil A, Kothandan R, Selvaraj D. Molecular insights into the potential effects of selective estrogen receptor β agonists in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4014. [PMID: 38616346 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4014] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Pathologically, AD and PD are characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins. Hence, they are also called as proteinopathy diseases. Gender is considered as one of the risk factors in both diseases. Estrogens are widely accepted to be neuroprotective in several neurodegenerative disorders. Estrogens can be produced in the central nervous system, where they are called as neurosteroids. Estrogens mediate their neuroprotective action mainly through their actions on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ). However, ERα is mainly involved in the growth and development of the primary and secondary sexual organs in females. Hence, the activation of ERα is associated with undesired side effects such as gynecomastia and increase in the risk of breast cancer, thromboembolism, and feminization. Therefore, selective activation of ERβ is often considered to be safer. In this review, we explore the role of ERβ in regulating the expression and functions of AD- and PD-associated genes. Additionally, we discuss the association of these genes with the amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) and α-synuclein mediated toxicity. Ultimately, we established a correlation between the importance of ERβ activation and the process underlying ERβ's neuroprotective mechanisms in AD and PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emdormi Rymbai
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Deepa Sugumar
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Amritha Chakkittukandiyil
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ram Kothandan
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Divakar Selvaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Skalka GL, Tsakovska M, Murphy DJ. Kinase signalling adaptation supports dysfunctional mitochondria in disease. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1354682. [PMID: 38434478 PMCID: PMC10906720 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1354682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria form a critical control nexus which are essential for maintaining correct tissue homeostasis. An increasing number of studies have identified dysregulation of mitochondria as a driver in cancer. However, which pathways support and promote this adapted mitochondrial function? A key hallmark of cancer is perturbation of kinase signalling pathways. These pathways include mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK), lipid secondary messenger networks, cyclic-AMP-activated (cAMP)/AMP-activated kinases (AMPK), and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) networks. These signalling pathways have multiple substrates which support initiation and persistence of cancer. Many of these are involved in the regulation of mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial apoptosis, mitochondrial calcium homeostasis, mitochondrial associated membranes (MAMs), and retrograde ROS signalling. This review will aim to both explore how kinase signalling integrates with these critical mitochondrial pathways and highlight how these systems can be usurped to support the development of disease. In addition, we will identify areas which require further investigation to fully understand the complexities of these regulatory interactions. Overall, this review will emphasize how studying the interaction between kinase signalling and mitochondria improves our understanding of mitochondrial homeostasis and can yield novel therapeutic targets to treat disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George L. Skalka
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Mina Tsakovska
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. Murphy
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hecht F, Zocchi M, Alimohammadi F, Harris IS. Regulation of antioxidants in cancer. Mol Cell 2024; 84:23-33. [PMID: 38029751 PMCID: PMC10843710 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Scientists in this field often joke, "If you don't have a mechanism, say it's ROS." Seemingly connected to every biological process ever described, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have numerous pleiotropic roles in physiology and disease. In some contexts, ROS act as secondary messengers, controlling a variety of signaling cascades. In other scenarios, they initiate damage to macromolecules. Finally, in their worst form, ROS are deadly to cells and surrounding tissues. A set of molecules with detoxifying abilities, termed antioxidants, is the direct counterpart to ROS. Notably, antioxidants exist in the public domain, touted as a "cure-all" for diseases. Research has disproved many of these claims and, in some cases, shown the opposite. Of all the diseases, cancer stands out in its paradoxical relationship with antioxidants. Although the field has made numerous strides in understanding the roles of antioxidants in cancer, many questions remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Hecht
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Marco Zocchi
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Fatemeh Alimohammadi
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Isaac S Harris
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ray SK, Jayashankar E, Kotnis A, Mukherjee S. Oxidative versus Reductive Stress in Breast Cancer Development and Cellular Mechanism of Alleviation: A Current Perspective with Anti-breast Cancer Drug Resistance. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:205-216. [PMID: 36892117 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230309112751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is essential for keeping our bodies healthy, but it also helps breast cancer cells grow, stay alive, and resist treatment. Changes in the redox balance and problems with redox signaling can make breast cancer cells grow and spread and make them resistant to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) generation and the oxidant defense system are out of equilibrium, which causes oxidative stress. Many studies have shown that oxidative stress can affect the start and spread of cancer by interfering with redox (reduction-oxidation) signaling and damaging molecules. The oxidation of invariant cysteine residues in FNIP1 is reversed by reductive stress, which is brought on by protracted antioxidant signaling or mitochondrial inactivity. This permits CUL2FEM1B to recognize its intended target. After the proteasome breaks down FNIP1, mitochondrial function is restored to keep redox balance and cell integrity. Reductive stress is caused by unchecked amplification of antioxidant signaling, and changes in metabolic pathways are a big part of breast tumors' growth. Also, redox reactions make pathways like PI3K, PKC, and protein kinases of the MAPK cascade work better. Kinases and phosphatases control the phosphorylation status of transcription factors like APE1/Ref-1, HIF-1, AP-1, Nrf2, NF-B, p53, FOXO, STAT, and - catenin. Also, how well anti-breast cancer drugs, especially those that cause cytotoxicity by making ROS, treat patients depends on how well the elements that support a cell's redox environment work together. Even though chemotherapy aims to kill cancer cells, which it does by making ROS, this can lead to drug resistance in the long run. The development of novel therapeutic approaches for treating breast cancer will be facilitated by a better understanding of the reductive stress and metabolic pathways in tumor microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suman Kumar Ray
- Independent Researcher, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462020, India
| | - Erukkambattu Jayashankar
- Department of Pathology & Lab Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences-Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462020, India
| | - Ashwin Kotnis
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences-Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462020, India
| | - Sukhes Mukherjee
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences-Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, 462020, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lin L, Wu Q, Lu F, Lei J, Zhou Y, Liu Y, Zhu N, Yu Y, Ning Z, She T, Hu M. Nrf2 signaling pathway: current status and potential therapeutic targetable role in human cancers. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1184079. [PMID: 37810967 PMCID: PMC10559910 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1184079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a borderless global health challenge that continues to threaten human health. Studies have found that oxidative stress (OS) is often associated with the etiology of many diseases, especially the aging process and cancer. Involved in the OS reaction as a key transcription factor, Nrf2 is a pivotal regulator of cellular redox state and detoxification. Nrf2 can prevent oxidative damage by regulating gene expression with antioxidant response elements (ARE) to promote the antioxidant response process. OS is generated with an imbalance in the redox state and promotes the accumulation of mutations and genome instability, thus associated with the establishment and development of different cancers. Nrf2 activation regulates a plethora of processes inducing cellular proliferation, differentiation and death, and is strongly associated with OS-mediated cancer. What's more, Nrf2 activation is also involved in anti-inflammatory effects and metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and multidrug resistance. Nrf2 is highly expressed in multiple human body parts of digestive system, respiratory system, reproductive system and nervous system. In oncology research, Nrf2 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target. Therefore, certain natural compounds and drugs can exert anti-cancer effects through the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and blocking the Nrf2 signaling pathway can reduce some types of tumor recurrence rates and increase sensitivity to chemotherapy. However, Nrf2's dual role and controversial impact in cancer are inevitable consideration factors when treating Nrf2 as a therapeutic target. In this review, we summarized the current state of biological characteristics of Nrf2 and its dual role and development mechanism in different tumor cells, discussed Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway and its downstream genes, elaborated the expression of related signaling pathways such as AMPK/mTOR and NF-κB. Besides, the main mechanism of Nrf2 as a cancer therapeutic target and the therapeutic strategies using Nrf2 inhibitors or activators, as well as the possible positive and negative effects of Nrf2 activation were also reviewed. It can be concluded that Nrf2 is related to OS and serves as an important factor in cancer formation and development, thus provides a basis for targeted therapy in human cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Lin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Qing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Feifei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Jiaming Lei
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Yanhong Zhou
- Department of Medical School of Facial Features, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Yifei Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Ni Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - You Yu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Zhifeng Ning
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Tonghui She
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Meichun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Related Diseases and One Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Takayama KI, Matsuoka S, Adachi S, Honma T, Yoshida M, Doi T, Shin-ya K, Yoshida M, Osada H, Inoue S. Identification of small-molecule inhibitors against the interaction of RNA-binding protein PSF and its target RNA for cancer treatment. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad203. [PMID: 37388923 PMCID: PMC10304769 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Diverse cellular activities are modulated through a variety of RNAs, including long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), by binding to certain proteins. The inhibition of oncogenic proteins or RNAs is expected to suppress cancer cell proliferation. We have previously demonstrated that PSF interaction with its target RNAs, such as androgen-induced lncRNA CTBP1-AS, is critical for hormone therapy resistance in prostate and breast cancers. However, the action of protein-RNA interactions remains almost undruggable to date. High-throughput screening (HTS) has facilitated the discovery of drugs for protein-protein interactions. In the present study, we developed an in vitro alpha assay using Flag peptide-conjugated lncRNA, CTBP1-AS, and PSF. We then constructed an effective HTS screening system to explore small compounds that inhibit PSF-RNA interactions. Thirty-six compounds were identified and dose-dependently inhibited PSF-RNA interaction in vitro. Moreover, chemical optimization of these lead compounds and evaluation of cancer cell proliferation revealed two promising compounds, N-3 and C-65. These compounds induced apoptosis and inhibited cell growth in prostate and breast cancer cells. By inhibiting PSF-RNA interaction, N-3 and C-65 up-regulated signals that are repressed by PSF, such as the cell cycle signals by p53 and p27. Furthermore, using a mouse xenograft model for hormone therapy-resistant prostate cancer, we revealed that N-3 and C-65 can significantly suppress tumor growth and downstream target gene expression, such as the androgen receptor (AR). Thus, our findings highlight a therapeutic strategy through the development of inhibitors for RNA-binding events in advanced cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken-ichi Takayama
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Seiji Matsuoka
- Seed Compounds Exploratory Unit for Drug Discovery Platform, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Shungo Adachi
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | - Teruki Honma
- Drug Discovery Computational Chemistry Platform Unit, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Masahito Yoshida
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
| | - Takayuki Doi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
| | - Kazuo Shin-ya
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | - Minoru Yoshida
- Chemical Genomics Research Group, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Osada
- Drug Discovery Chemical Bank Unit, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Matsunaga T, Horinouchi M, Saito H, Hisamatsu A, Iguchi K, Yoshino Y, Endo S, Ikari A. Availability of aldo-keto reductase 1C3 and ATP-binding cassette B1 as therapeutic targets for alleviating paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer MCF7 cells. J Biochem 2023; 173:167-175. [PMID: 36413758 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvac098] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Paclitaxel (PTX) is frequently utilized for the chemotherapy of breast cancer, but its continuous treatment provokes hyposensitivity. Here, we established a PTX-resistant variant of human breast cancer MCF7 cells and found that acquiring the chemoresistance elicits a remarkable up-regulation of aldo-keto reductase (AKR) 1C3. MCF7 cell sensitivity to PTX toxicity was increased by pretreatment with AKR1C3 inhibitor and knockdown of this enzyme, and decreased by its overexpression, inferring a crucial role of AKR1C3 in the development of PTX resistance. The PTX-resistant cells were much less sensitive to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal and acrolein, cytotoxic reactive aldehydes derived from ROS-mediated lipid peroxidation, compared with the parental cells. Additionally, the resistant cells lowered levels of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal formed during PTX treatment, which was mitigated by pretreating with AKR1C3 inhibitor, suggesting that AKR1C3 procures the chemoresistance through facilitating the metabolism of the cytotoxic aldehyde. The gain of PTX resistance additively promoted the aberrant expression of an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter ABCB1 among the ABC transporter isoforms. The combined treatment with AKR1C3 and ABCB1 inhibitors overcame the PTX resistance and cross-resistance to another taxane-based drug docetaxel. Collectively, combined treatment with AKR1C3 and ABCB1 inhibitors may exert an overcoming effect of PTX resistance in breast cancer.
Collapse
Key Words
- ATP-binding cassette B1
- Aldo-keto reductase 1C3
Abbreviations: AKR, aldo-keto reductase; BPS, 3-bromo-5-phenylsalicylic acid; BSO, buthionine sulfoximine; CDDP, cis-diamminedichloroplatinum; CDDP-R, CDDP-resistant MCF7; DPBS, Dulbecco’s phosphate-buffered saline; DTNB, 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid); DTX, docetaxel; GCL, glutamate-cysteine ligase; GPx, glutathione peroxidase; GR, glutathione reductase; GSH, reduced glutathione; GSHEE, glutathione ethyl ester;
GST, glutathione S-transferase; HNE, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal; Keap1, Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1; MCA, 4-methylcoumaryl-7-amide; MG132, Z-Leu-Leu-Leu-al; Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; PCR, polymerase-chain reaction; PG, prostaglandin; ROS, reactive oxygen species; SFN, sulforaphane; siRNA, small-interfering RNA; TOL, tolfenamic acid; UDCA, ursodeoxycholic acid
- breast cancer
- chemoresistance
- docetaxel
- paclitaxel
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Matsunaga
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 5-6-1 Mitahora-higashi, Gifu 502-8585, Japan.,Education Center of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 5-6-1 Mitahora-higashi, Gifu 502-8585, Japan
| | - Misato Horinouchi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Haruhi Saito
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Aki Hisamatsu
- Education Center of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 5-6-1 Mitahora-higashi, Gifu 502-8585, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Iguchi
- Laboratory of Community Pharmacy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Yuta Yoshino
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Satoshi Endo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| | - Akira Ikari
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, 1-25-4 Daigaku-nishi, Gifu 501-1196, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xie T, Zahid H, Ali AR, Joyce R, Yang G, Winz C, Le Y, Zhou R, Furmanski P, Hu L, Suh N. Inhibitors of Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction reduce estrogen responsive gene expression and oxidative stress in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 460:116375. [PMID: 36634873 PMCID: PMC9879264 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116375] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen contributes to the development of breast cancer through estrogen receptor (ER) signaling and by generating genotoxic metabolites that cause oxidative DNA damage. To protect against oxidative stress, cells activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream cytoprotective genes that initiate antioxidant responses and detoxify xenobiotics. Nrf2 activation occurs by inhibiting the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between Nrf2 and its inhibitor Keap1, which otherwise targets Nrf2 for ubiquitination and destruction. In this study, we examined a series of novel direct inhibitors of Keap1-Nrf2 PPI in their role in promoting the availability of Nrf2 for antioxidant activity and attenuating estrogen-mediated responses in breast cancer. ER-positive human breast cancer cells MCF-7 were treated with 17β-estradiol (E2) in the presence or absence of selected Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors. Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors suppressed the mRNA and protein levels of estrogen responsive genes induced by E2 exposure, such as PGR. Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors caused significant activation of Nrf2 target genes. E2 decreased the mRNA and protein level of the Nrf2 target gene NQO1, and the Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors reversed this effect. The reversal of E2 action by these compounds was not due to binding to ER as ER antagonists. Further, a selected compound attenuated oxidative stress induced by E2, determined by the level of a biomarker 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine. These findings suggest that the Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors have potent antioxidant activity by activating Nrf2 pathways and inhibit E2-induced gene and protein expression. These compounds may serve as potential chemopreventive agents in estrogen-stimulated breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingying Xie
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Husam Zahid
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ahmed R Ali
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ryan Joyce
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ge Yang
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Cassandra Winz
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Yicong Le
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Renping Zhou
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Philip Furmanski
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Longqin Hu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nanjoo Suh
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yu X, Liu Y, Pan K, Sun P, Li J, Li L, Chen Q, Sun Z. Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 1 Regulates Oxidative Damage via Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-related Factor 2 in Oral Cancer Cells. Arch Oral Biol 2022; 139:105447. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2022.105447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
11
|
Kim S, Hwang S. G-Quadruplex Matters in Tissue-Specific Tumorigenesis by BRCA1 Deficiency. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13030391. [PMID: 35327946 PMCID: PMC8948836 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
How and why distinct genetic alterations, such as BRCA1 mutation, promote tumorigenesis in certain tissues, but not others, remain an important issue in cancer research. The underlying mechanisms may reveal tissue-specific therapeutic vulnerabilities. Although the roles of BRCA1, such as DNA damage repair and stalled fork stabilization, obviously contribute to tumor suppression, these ubiquitously important functions cannot explain tissue-specific tumorigenesis by BRCA1 mutations. Recent advances in our understanding of the cancer genome and fundamental cellular processes on DNA, such as transcription and DNA replication, have provided new insights regarding BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis, suggesting that G-quadruplex (G4) plays a critical role. In this review, we summarize the importance of G4 structures in mutagenesis of the cancer genome and cell type-specific gene regulation, and discuss a recently revealed molecular mechanism of G4/base excision repair (BER)-mediated transcriptional activation. The latter adequately explains the correlation between the accumulation of unresolved transcriptional regulatory G4s and multi-level genomic alterations observed in BRCA1-associated tumors. In summary, tissue-specific tumorigenesis by BRCA1 deficiency can be explained by cell type-specific levels of transcriptional regulatory G4s and the role of BRCA1 in resolving it. This mechanism would provide an integrated understanding of the initiation and development of BRCA1-associated tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanghyun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Sungnam 13488, Korea;
| | - Sohyun Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Sungnam 13488, Korea;
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Sungnam 13496, Korea
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Peng X, Zhang S, Jiao W, Zhong Z, Yang Y, Claret FX, Elkabets M, Wang F, Wang R, Zhong Y, Chen ZS, Kong D. Hydroxychloroquine synergizes with the PI3K inhibitor BKM120 to exhibit antitumor efficacy independent of autophagy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:374. [PMID: 34844627 PMCID: PMC8628289 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The critical role of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) activation in tumor cell biology has prompted massive efforts to develop PI3K inhibitors (PI3Kis) for cancer therapy. However, recent results from clinical trials have shown only a modest therapeutic efficacy of single-agent PI3Kis in solid tumors. Targeting autophagy has controversial context-dependent effects in cancer treatment. As a FDA-approved lysosomotropic agent, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been well tested as an autophagy inhibitor in preclinical models. Here, we elucidated the novel mechanism of HCQ alone or in combination with PI3Ki BKM120 in the treatment of cancer. METHODS The antitumor effects of HCQ and BKM120 on three different types of tumor cells were assessed by in vitro PrestoBlue assay, colony formation assay and in vivo zebrafish and nude mouse xenograft models. The involved molecular mechanisms were investigated by MDC staining, LC3 puncta formation assay, immunofluorescent assay, flow cytometric analysis of apoptosis and ROS, qRT-PCR, Western blot, comet assay, homologous recombination (HR) assay and immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS HCQ significantly sensitized cancer cells to BKM120 in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, the sensitization mediated by HCQ could not be phenocopied by treatment with other autophagy inhibitors (Spautin-1, 3-MA and bafilomycin A1) or knockdown of the essential autophagy genes Atg5/Atg7, suggesting that the sensitizing effect might be mediated independent of autophagy status. Mechanistically, HCQ induced ROS production and activated the transcription factor NRF2. In contrast, BKM120 prevented the elimination of ROS by inactivation of NRF2, leading to accumulation of DNA damage. In addition, HCQ activated ATM to enhance HR repair, a high-fidelity repair for DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in cells, while BKM120 inhibited HR repair by blocking the phosphorylation of ATM and the expression of BRCA1/2 and Rad51. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that HCQ and BKM120 synergistically increased DSBs in tumor cells and therefore augmented apoptosis, resulting in enhanced antitumor efficacy. Our findings provide a new insight into how HCQ exhibits antitumor efficacy and synergizes with PI3Ki BKM120, and warn that one should consider the "off target" effects of HCQ when used as autophagy inhibitor in the clinical treatment of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Peng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shaolu Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Wenhui Jiao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhenxing Zhong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yuqi Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA
| | - Francois X Claret
- Department of Systems Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Moshe Elkabets
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Ran Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China. .,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| | - Yuxu Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY, 11439, USA.
| | - Dexin Kong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China. .,Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Diseases (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China. .,School of Medicine, Tianjin Tianshi College, Tianyuan University, Tianjin, 301700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Emerging role of ferroptosis in breast cancer: New dawn for overcoming tumor progression. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 232:107992. [PMID: 34606782 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer has become a serious threat to women's health. Cancer progression is mainly derived from resistance to apoptosis induced by procedures or therapies. Therefore, new drugs or models that can overcome apoptosis resistance should be identified. Ferroptosis is a recently identified mode of cell death characterized by excess reactive oxygen species-induced lipid peroxidation. Since ferroptosis is distinct from apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy, its induction successfully eliminates cancer cells that are resistant to other modes of cell death. Therefore, ferroptosis may become a new direction around which to design breast cancer treatment. Unfortunately, the complete appearance of ferroptosis in breast cancer has not yet been fully elucidated. Furthermore, whether ferroptosis inducers can be used in combination with traditional anti- breast cancer drugs is still unknown. Moreover, a summary of ferroptosis in breast cancer progression and therapy is currently not available. In this review, we discuss the roles of ferroptosis-associated modulators glutathione, glutathione peroxidase 4, iron, nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor-2, superoxide dismutases, lipoxygenase and coenzyme Q in breast cancer. Furthermore, we provide evidence that traditional drugs against breast cancer induce ferroptosis, and that ferroptosis inducers eliminate breast cancer cells. Finally, we put forward prospect of using ferroptosis inducers in breast cancer therapy, and predict possible obstacles and corresponding solutions. This review will deepen our understanding of the relationship between ferroptosis and breast cancer, and provide new insights into breast cancer-related therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
14
|
Therapeutic inhibition of USP9x-mediated Notch signaling in triple-negative breast cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2101592118. [PMID: 34518219 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2101592118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype that lacks targeted treatment options. The activation of the Notch developmental signaling pathway, which is a feature of TNBC, results in the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and the recruitment of protumoral macrophages to the tumor microenvironment. While the Notch pathway is an obvious therapeutic target, its activity is ubiquitous, and predictably, anti-Notch therapies are burdened with significant on-target side effects. Previously, we discovered that, under conditions of cellular stress commonly found in the tumor microenvironment, the deubiquitinase USP9x forms a multiprotein complex with the pseudokinase tribbles homolog 3 (TRB3) that together activate the Notch pathway. Herein, we provide preclinical studies that support the potential of therapeutic USP9x inhibition to deactivate Notch. Using a murine TNBC model, we show that USP9x knockdown abrogates Notch activation, reducing the production of the proinflammatory cytokines, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). Concomitant with these molecular changes, a reduction in tumor inflammation, the augmentation of antitumor immune response, and the suppression of tumor growth were observed. The pharmacological inhibition of USP9x using G9, a partially selective, small-molecule USP9x inhibitor, reduced Notch activity, remodeled the tumor immune landscape, and reduced tumor growth without associated toxicity. Proving the role of Notch, the ectopic expression of the activated Notch1 intracellular domain rescued G9-induced effects. This work supports the potential of USP9x inhibition to target Notch in metabolically vulnerable tissues like TNBC, while sparing normal Notch-dependent tissues.
Collapse
|
15
|
Rauner G, Kuperwasser C. Microenvironmental control of cell fate decisions in mammary gland development and cancer. Dev Cell 2021; 56:1875-1883. [PMID: 34256927 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cell fate decisions are critical for adequate tissue development, maintenance and regeneration. In the mammary gland, epithelial cell fates are tightly controlled by the microenvironment. Here, we review how cell fate decisions are regulated by components of the microenvironment during mammary gland development and how pathological changes in the microenvironment can alter cell fates, leading to malignancy. Specifically, we describe the current understanding of how mammary cell fate is controlled and directed by three elements: the extracellular matrix, the immune microenvironment, and hormones-and how these elements can converge to create microenvironments that promote a fourth element: DNA damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gat Rauner
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Charlotte Kuperwasser
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA; Laboratory for the Convergence of Biomedical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Panieri E, Saso L. Inhibition of the NRF2/KEAP1 Axis: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy to Alter Redox Balance of Cancer Cells. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 34:1428-1483. [PMID: 33403898 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Significance: The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (NRF2/KEAP1) pathway is a crucial and highly conserved defensive system that is required to maintain or restore the intracellular homeostasis in response to oxidative, electrophilic, and other types of stress conditions. The tight control of NRF2 function is maintained by a complex network of biological interactions between positive and negative regulators that ultimately ensure context-specific activation, culminating in the NRF2-driven transcription of cytoprotective genes. Recent Advances: Recent studies indicate that deregulated NRF2 activation is a frequent event in malignant tumors, wherein it is associated with metabolic reprogramming, increased antioxidant capacity, chemoresistance, and poor clinical outcome. On the other hand, the growing interest in the modulation of the cancer cells' redox balance identified NRF2 as an ideal therapeutic target. Critical Issues: For this reason, many efforts have been made to identify potent and selective NRF2 inhibitors that might be used as single agents or adjuvants of anticancer drugs with redox disrupting properties. Despite the lack of specific NRF2 inhibitors still represents a major clinical hurdle, the researchers have exploited alternative strategies to disrupt NRF2 signaling at different levels of its biological activation. Future Directions: Given its dualistic role in tumor initiation and progression, the identification of the appropriate biological context of NRF2 activation and the specific clinicopathological features of patients cohorts wherein its inactivation is expected to have clinical benefits, will represent a major goal in the field of cancer research. In this review, we will briefly describe the structure and function of the NRF2/ KEAP1 system and some of the most promising NRF2 inhibitors, with a particular emphasis on natural compounds and drug repurposing. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 34, 1428-1483.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Panieri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer," University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer," University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chun KS, Kim DH, Surh YJ. Role of Reductive versus Oxidative Stress in Tumor Progression and Anticancer Drug Resistance. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040758. [PMID: 33808242 PMCID: PMC8065762 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is not only essential for the maintenance of normal physiological functions, but also plays an important role in the growth, survival, and therapy resistance of cancer cells. Altered redox balance and consequent disruption of redox signaling are implicated in the proliferation and progression of cancer cells and their resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. The nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor (Nrf2) is the principal stress-responsive transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis. Aberrant Nrf2 overactivation has been observed in many cancerous and transformed cells. Uncontrolled amplification of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling results in reductive stress. Some metabolic pathways altered due to reductive stress have been identified as major contributors to tumorigenesis. This review highlights the multifaceted role of reductive stress in cancer development and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Soo Chun
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Daegu 42691, Korea;
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Convergence and Integrated Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16227, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-H.K.); (Y.-J.S.)
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-H.K.); (Y.-J.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Miklikova S, Trnkova L, Plava J, Bohac M, Kuniakova M, Cihova M. The Role of BRCA1/2-Mutated Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:575. [PMID: 33540843 PMCID: PMC7867315 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Taking into account the factors of high incidence rate, prevalence and mortality, breast cancer represents a crucial social and economic burden. Most cases of breast cancer develop as a consequence of somatic mutations accumulating in mammary epithelial cells throughout lifetime and approximately 5-10% can be ascribed to monogenic predispositions. Even though the role of genetic predispositions in breast cancer is well described in the context of genetics, very little is known about the role of the microenvironment carrying the same aberrant cells impaired by the germline mutation in the breast cancer development and progression. Based on the clinical observations, carcinomas carrying mutations in hereditary tumor-suppressor genes involved in maintaining genome integrity such as BRCA1/2 have worse prognosis and aggressive behavior. One of the mechanisms clarifying the aggressive nature of BRCA-associated tumors implies alterations within the surrounding adipose tissue itself. The objective of this review is to look at the role of BRCA1/2 mutations in the context of breast tumor microenvironment and plausible mechanisms by which it contributes to the aggressive behavior of the tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Miklikova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.M.); (L.T.); (J.P.)
| | - Lenka Trnkova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.M.); (L.T.); (J.P.)
| | - Jana Plava
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.M.); (L.T.); (J.P.)
| | - Martin Bohac
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, National Cancer Institute, Klenova 1, 83310 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Department of Oncosurgery, National Cancer Institute, Klenova 1, 83310 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Regenmed Ltd., Medena 29, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Marcela Kuniakova
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Sasinkova 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Marina Cihova
- Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, University Science Park for Biomedicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.M.); (L.T.); (J.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
From the T-cell receptor to cancer therapy: an interview with Tak W. Mak. Cell Death Differ 2020; 28:5-14. [PMID: 33335286 PMCID: PMC7745173 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-00666-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This interview is part of a series of articles to mark the 25th anniversary of the launching of Cell Death and Differentiation.
Collapse
|
20
|
Smolková K, Mikó E, Kovács T, Leguina-Ruzzi A, Sipos A, Bai P. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in Regulating Cancer Metabolism. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 33:966-997. [PMID: 31989830 PMCID: PMC7533893 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NFE2L2, or NRF2) is a transcription factor predominantly affecting the expression of antioxidant genes. NRF2 plays a significant role in the control of redox balance, which is crucial in cancer cells. NRF2 activation regulates numerous cancer hallmarks, including metabolism, cancer stem cell characteristics, tumor aggressiveness, invasion, and metastasis formation. We review the molecular characteristics of the NRF2 pathway and discuss its interactions with the cancer hallmarks previously listed. Recent Advances: The noncanonical activation of NRF2 was recently discovered, and members of this pathway are involved in carcinogenesis. Further, cancer-related changes (e.g., metabolic flexibility) that support cancer progression were found to be redox- and NRF2 dependent. Critical Issues: NRF2 undergoes Janus-faced behavior in cancers. The pro- or antineoplastic effects of NRF2 are context dependent and essentially based on the specific molecular characteristics of the cancer in question. Therefore, systematic investigation of NRF2 signaling is necessary to clarify its role in cancer etiology. The biggest challenge in the NRF2 field is to determine which cancers can be targeted for better clinical outcomes. Further, large-scale genomic and transcriptomic studies are missing to correlate the clinical outcome with the activity of the NRF2 system. Future Directions: To exploit NRF2 in a clinical setting in the future, the druggable members of the NRF2 pathway should be identified. In addition, it will be important to study how the modulation of the NRF2 system interferes with cytostatic drugs and their combinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarína Smolková
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Edit Mikó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tünde Kovács
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Alberto Leguina-Ruzzi
- Department of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IPHYS CAS), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adrienn Sipos
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Péter Bai
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,MTA-DE Lendület Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism, Debrecen, Hungary.,Faculty of Medicine, Research Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kirtonia A, Sethi G, Garg M. The multifaceted role of reactive oxygen species in tumorigenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:4459-4483. [PMID: 32358622 PMCID: PMC11105050 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03536-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is an essential requirement of the biological systems for performing various normal cellular functions including cellular growth, differentiation, senescence, survival and aging in humans. The changes in the basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are detrimental to cells and often lead to several disease conditions including cardiovascular, neurological, diabetes and cancer. During the last two decades, substantial research has been done which clearly suggests that ROS are essential for the initiation, progression, angiogenesis as well as metastasis of cancer in several ways. During the last two decades, the potential of dysregulated ROS to enhance tumor formation through the activation of various oncogenic signaling pathways, DNA mutations, immune escape, tumor microenvironment, metastasis, angiogenesis and extension of telomere has been discovered. At present, surgery followed by chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy is the major therapeutic modality for treating patients with either early or advanced stages of cancer. However, the majority of patients relapse or did not respond to initial treatment. One of the reasons for recurrence/relapse is the altered levels of ROS in tumor cells as well as in cancer-initiating stem cells. One of the critical issues is targeting the intracellular/extracellular ROS for significant antitumor response and relapse-free survival. Indeed, a large number of FDA-approved anticancer drugs are efficient to eliminate cancer cells and drug resistance by increasing ROS production. Thus, the modulation of oxidative stress response might represent a potential approach to eradicate cancer in combination with FDA-approved chemotherapies, radiotherapies as well as immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Kirtonia
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Campus, Sector-125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201313, India
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Campus, Sector-125, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201313, India.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Duică F, Condrat CE, Dănila CA, Boboc AE, Radu MR, Xiao J, Li X, Creţoiu SM, Suciu N, Creţoiu D, Predescu DV. MiRNAs: A Powerful Tool in Deciphering Gynecological Malignancies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:591181. [PMID: 33194751 PMCID: PMC7646292 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.591181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulated evidence on the clinical roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer prevention and control has revealed the emergence of new genetic techniques that have improved the understanding of the mechanisms essential for pathology induction and progression. Comprehension of the modifications and individual differences of miRNAs and their interactions in the pathogenesis of gynecological malignancies, together with an understanding of the phenotypic variations have considerably improved the management of the diagnosis and personalized treatment for different forms of cancer. In recent years, miRNAs have emerged as signaling molecules in biological pathways involved in different categories of cancer and it has been demonstrated that these molecules could regulate cancer-relevant processes, our focus being on malignancies of the gynecologic tract. The aim of this paper is to summarize novel research findings in the literature regarding the parts that miRNAs play in cancer-relevant processes, specifically regarding gynecological malignancy, while emphasizing their pivotal role in the disruption of cancer-related signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florentina Duică
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen Elena Condrat
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cezara Alina Dănila
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Elena Boboc
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Raluca Radu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinli Li
- Department of Cardiology, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Sanda Maria Creţoiu
- Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Suciu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Polizu Clinical Hospital, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania.,Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragoş Creţoiu
- Fetal Medicine Excellence Research Center, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute for Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania.,Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragoş-Valentin Predescu
- Department of General Surgery, Sf. Maria Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Singh AK, Yu X. Tissue-Specific Carcinogens as Soil to Seed BRCA1/2-Mutant Hereditary Cancers. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:559-568. [PMID: 32336659 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite their ubiquitous expression, the inheritance of monoallelic germline mutations in breast cancer susceptibility gene type 1 or 2 (BRCA1/2) poses tissue-specific variations in cancer risks and primarily associate with familial breast and ovarian cancers. The molecular basis of this tissue-specific tumor incidence remains unknown and intriguing to cancer researchers. A plethora of recent reports support the idea that several nongenetic factors present in the tissue microenvironment could induce tumors in the mutant BRCA1/2 background. This Opinion article summarizes the recent advances on tissue-specific carcinogens and their complex crosstalk with the compromised DNA repair machinery of BRCA1/2-mutant cells. Finally, we present our perspective on the therapeutic and chemopreventive interpretations of these developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anup Kumar Singh
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Xiaochun Yu
- Department of Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Association of premenopausal risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy with breast cancer risk in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers: Maximising bias-reduction. Eur J Cancer 2020; 132:53-60. [PMID: 32325420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) in BRCA1/2 carriers reduces the breast cancer (BC) risk is conflicting, potentially due to methodological issues of prior analysis. We analysed the association between premenopausal RRSO and BC risk in BRCA1/2 carriers after adjusting for potential biases. METHODS We analysed data from 444 BRCA1 and 409 BRCA2 carriers under age 51 with no cancer prior to genetic testing or during first 6 months of surveillance (to avoid cancer-induced testing bias and prevalent-cancer bias). Observation started 6 months after genetic testing (to avoid event-free time bias), until BC diagnosis, risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) or death. A multistate model with four states (non-RRSO, RRSO, RRM and BC) and five transitions was fitted to characterise outcomes and to calculate the BC risk reduction after premenopausal RRSO (before age 51). A systematic review was performed to assess the association between premenopausal RRSO and BC. RESULTS During a mean follow-up of 4.3 years, 96 women (11.3%) developed BC (54 BRCA1, 42 BRCA2). The risk of BC after premenopausal RRSO decreased significantly in BRCA1 carriers (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.45 [95% confidence interval (CI):0.22-0.92]), but was not conclusive in BRCA2 carriers (HR = 0.77 [95%CI:0.35-1.67]). The systematic review suggested that premenopausal RRSO is associated with a decrease of BC risk in both BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers. CONCLUSIONS Premenopausal RRSO was associated with BC risk reduction in BRCA1 carriers, which can help guide cancer risk-reducing strategies in this population. Longer follow-up and larger sample size may be needed to estimate the potential benefit in BRCA2 carriers.
Collapse
|
25
|
Pereira EJ, Burns JS, Lee CY, Marohl T, Calderon D, Wang L, Atkins KA, Wang CC, Janes KA. Sporadic activation of an oxidative stress-dependent NRF2-p53 signaling network in breast epithelial spheroids and premalignancies. Sci Signal 2020; 13:13/627/eaba4200. [PMID: 32291314 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aba4200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Breast and mammary epithelial cells experience different local environments during tissue development and tumorigenesis. Microenvironmental heterogeneity gives rise to distinct cell regulatory states whose identity and importance are just beginning to be appreciated. Cellular states diversify when clonal three-dimensional (3D) spheroids are cultured in basement membrane, and one such state is associated with stress tolerance and poor response to anticancer therapeutics. Here, we found that this state was jointly coordinated by the NRF2 and p53 pathways, which were costabilized by spontaneous oxidative stress within 3D cultures. Inhibition of NRF2 or p53 individually disrupted some of the transcripts defining the regulatory state but did not yield a notable phenotype in nontransformed breast epithelial cells. In contrast, combined perturbation prevented 3D growth in an oxidative stress-dependent manner. By integrating systems models of NRF2 and p53 signaling in a single oxidative stress network, we recapitulated these observations and made predictions about oxidative stress profiles during 3D growth. NRF2 and p53 signaling were similarly coordinated in normal breast epithelial tissue and hormone-negative ductal carcinoma in situ lesions but were uncoupled in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a subtype in which p53 is usually mutated. Using the integrated model, we correlated the extent of this uncoupling in TNBC cell lines with the importance of NRF2 in the 3D growth of these cell lines and their predicted handling of oxidative stress. Our results point to an oxidative stress tolerance network that is important for single cells during glandular development and the early stages of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Pereira
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Joseph S Burns
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Christina Y Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Taylor Marohl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Delia Calderon
- Biology and Chemistry Programs, California State University Channel Islands, Camarillo, CA 93012, USA
| | - Lixin Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Kristen A Atkins
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Chun-Chao Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Kevin A Janes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Akt-targeted therapy as a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer - A comprehensive review from chemotherapy to immunotherapy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104806. [PMID: 32294525 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer in women. Chemotherapy in combination with immunotherapy has been used to treat breast cancer. Atezolizumab targeting the protein programmed cell death-ligand (PD-L1) in combination with paclitaxel was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), the most incurable type of breast cancer. However, the use of such drugs is restricted by genotype and is effective only for those TNBC patients expressing PD-L1. In addition, resistance to chemotherapy with drugs such as lapatinib, geftinib, and tamoxifen can develop. In this review, we address chemoresistance in breast cancer and discuss Akt as the master regulator of drug resistance and several oncogenic mechanisms in breast cancer. Akt not only directly interacts with the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathway to affect PD-L1 expression, but also has crosstalk with Notch and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways involved in cell migration and breast cancer stem cell integrity. In this review, we discuss the effects of tyrosine kinase inhibitors on Akt activation as well as the mechanism of Akt signaling in drug resistance. Akt also has a crucial role in mitochondrial metabolism and migrates into mitochondria to remodel breast cancer cell metabolism while also functioning in responses to hypoxic conditions. The Akt inhibitors ipatasertib, capivasertib, uprosertib, and MK-2206 not only suppress cancer cell proliferation and metastasis, but may also inhibit cytokine regulation and PD-L1 expression. Ipatasertib and uprosertib are undergoing clinical investigation to treat TNBC. Inhibition of Akt and its regulators can be used to control breast cancer progression and also immunosuppression, while discovery of additional compounds that target Akt and its modulators could provide solutions to resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
27
|
Bianchi JJ, Zhao X, Mays JC, Davoli T. Not all cancers are created equal: Tissue specificity in cancer genes and pathways. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 63:135-143. [PMID: 32092639 PMCID: PMC7247947 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Tumors arise through waves of genetic alterations and clonal expansion that allow tumor cells to acquire cancer hallmarks, such as genome instability and immune evasion. Recent genomic analyses showed that the vast majority of cancer driver genes are mutated in a tissue-dependent manner, that is, are altered in some cancers but not others. Often the tumor type also affects the likelihood of therapy response. What is the origin of tissue specificity in cancer? Recent studies suggest that both cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic factors play a role. On one hand, cell type-specific wiring of the cell signaling network determines the outcome of cancer driver gene mutations. On the other hand, the tumor cells' exposure to tissue-specific microenvironments (e.g. immune cells) also contributes to shape the tissue specificity of driver genes and of therapy response. In the future, a more complete understanding of tissue specificity in cancer may inform methods to better predict and improve therapeutic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joy J Bianchi
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Xin Zhao
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Joseph C Mays
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Teresa Davoli
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Solar Fernandez V, Cipolletti M, Ascenzi P, Marino M, Fiocchetti M. Neuroglobin As Key Mediator in the 17β-Estradiol-Induced Antioxidant Cell Response to Oxidative Stress. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 32:217-227. [PMID: 31686530 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2019.7870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aims: Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like-2 factor (NRF-2) is a transcription factor well known to provide an advantage for cancer growth and survival regulating the cellular redox pathway. In breast cancer cells, we recently identified the monomeric heme-globin neuroglobin (NGB) as part of a new mechanism induced by the steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) against oxidative stress. While there is mounting evidence suggesting a critical role of NGB as a sensor of oxidative stress, scarce information is available about its involvement in NRF-2 pathway activation in breast cancer cells. Results: Although NGB is not involved in the rapid E2-induced NRF-2 stability, E2 loses the capacity to regulate the expression of NRF-2-dependent genes in NGB-depleted MCF-7 cells. These data strongly sustain a role of NGB as a compensatory protein in the E2-activated intracellular pathway devoted to the increase of cancer cells tolerance to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in stressing conditions acting as key regulator of NRF-2 pathway activity in a time-dependent manner. Innovation: In this study, we identified a new role of NGB in the cell response to oxidative stress. Conclusion: Altogether, reported results open new insights on the NGB effect in regulating intracellular pathways related to cell adaptive response to stress and, as consequence, to cell survival, beyond its direct effect as ROS scavenger, opening new prospective in cancer therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paolo Ascenzi
- Interdepartmental Laboratory for Electron Microscopy, University Roma Tre, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Roma, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Binding partners of NRF2: Functions and regulatory mechanisms. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 678:108184. [PMID: 31733215 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.108184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
NRF2 is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that plays an important role in protecting organisms against diverse types of electrophiles or oxidants. The level of NRF2 is maintained low in normal cells, but highly elevated in cancer provoking chemoresistance or radioresistance. It is now recognized that NRF2 does not merely maintain the redox balance, but also plays significant roles in autophagy, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, and stem cell differentiation, all of which could be possibly attributable to the existence of multiple binding proteins. In the present manuscript, we summarize direct binding partners of NRF2 and illustrate how they bind to NRF2 and regulate its stability or activity.
Collapse
|
30
|
Zimta AA, Tigu AB, Muntean M, Cenariu D, Slaby O, Berindan-Neagoe I. Molecular Links between Central Obesity and Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215364. [PMID: 31661891 PMCID: PMC6862548 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy in women, in regard to incidence and mortality. In recent years, the negative role of obesity during BC development and progression has been made abundantly clear in several studies. However, the distribution of body fat may be more important to analyze than the overall body weight. In our review of literature, we reported some key findings regarding the role of obesity in BC development, but focused more on central adiposity. Firstly, the adipose microenvironment in obese people bears many similarities with the tumor microenvironment, in respect to associated cellular composition, chronic low-grade inflammation, and high ratio of reactive oxygen species to antioxidants. Secondly, the adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ, which in obese people produces a high level of tumor-promoting hormones, such as leptin and estrogen, and a low level of the tumor suppressor hormone, adiponectin. As follows, in BC this leads to the activation of oncogenic signaling pathways: NFκB, JAK, STAT3, AKT. Moreover, overall obesity, but especially central obesity, promotes a systemic and local low grade chronic inflammation that further stimulates the increase of tumor-promoting oxidative stress. Lastly, there is a constant exchange of information between BC cells and adipocytes, mediated especially by extracellular vesicles, and which changes the transcription profile of both cell types to an oncogenic one with the help of regulatory non-coding RNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Andreea Zimta
- MEDFUTURE-Research Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Medicine, and Pharmacy Iuliu-Hatieganu, 23 Marinescu Street, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Adrian Bogdan Tigu
- MEDFUTURE-Research Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Medicine, and Pharmacy Iuliu-Hatieganu, 23 Marinescu Street, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Babeș-Bolyai University, Faculty of Biology, and Geology, 42 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Maximilian Muntean
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu", 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Diana Cenariu
- MEDFUTURE-Research Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Medicine, and Pharmacy Iuliu-Hatieganu, 23 Marinescu Street, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Ondrej Slaby
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic.
- Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, 60200 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Ioana Berindan-Neagoe
- MEDFUTURE-Research Center for Advanced Medicine, University of Medicine, and Pharmacy Iuliu-Hatieganu, 23 Marinescu Street, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine, and Pharmacy, 23 Marinescu Street, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Department of Functional Genomics, and Experimental Pathology, The Oncology Institute "Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta", Republicii 34th street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Cosentino G, Plantamura I, Cataldo A, Iorio MV. MicroRNA and Oxidative Stress Interplay in the Context of Breast Cancer Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205143. [PMID: 31627322 PMCID: PMC6829356 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a pathological condition determined by a disturbance in reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. Depending on the entity of the perturbation, normal cells can either restore equilibrium or activate pathways of cell death. On the contrary, cancer cells exploit this phenomenon to sustain a proliferative and aggressive phenotype. In fact, ROS overproduction or their reduced disposal influence all hallmarks of cancer, from genome instability to cell metabolism, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. A persistent state of oxidative stress can even initiate tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non coding RNAs with regulatory functions, which expression has been extensively proven to be dysregulated in cancer. Intuitively, miRNA transcription and biogenesis are affected by the oxidative status of the cell and, in some instances, they participate in defining it. Indeed, it is widely reported the role of miRNAs in regulating numerous factors involved in the ROS signaling pathways. Given that miRNA function and modulation relies on cell type or tumor, in order to delineate a clearer and more exhaustive picture, in this review we present a comprehensive overview of the literature concerning how miRNAs and ROS signaling interplay affects breast cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cosentino
- Molecular Targeting Unit, Research Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Plantamura
- Molecular Targeting Unit, Research Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Cataldo
- Molecular Targeting Unit, Research Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
- IFOM Istituto FIRC di Oncologia Molecolare, 20139 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marilena V Iorio
- Molecular Targeting Unit, Research Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
- IFOM Istituto FIRC di Oncologia Molecolare, 20139 Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
17-β estradiol exerts anti-inflammatory effects through activation of Nrf2 in mouse embryonic fibroblasts. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221650. [PMID: 31442293 PMCID: PMC6707591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Several reports indicate crosstalk between the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and estrogen, which has a protective effect in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to investigate the role of Nrf2 signaling in the anti-inflammatory effect of estrogen using Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2 KO) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), a powerful system to test the function of target genes due to their easy accessibility, and rapid growth rates. After inducing inflammation by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), the effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) on the expression of proinflammatory mediators [i.e., NF-κB and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)] and estrogen receptors were evaluated by Western blot. In wild type (WT) MEFs, E2 treatment ameliorated TNF-α-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB and expression of its target protein iNOS. Estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) expression was decreased by TNF-α-induced inflammation and restored by E2 treatment. When treated to WT MEFs, E2 induced nuclear translocation of Nrf2. The inhibitory effect of E2 on TNF-α-induced enhancement of iNOS was markedly dampened in Nrf2 KO MEFs. Notably, ERβ expression was significantly diminished in Nrf2 KO MEFs compared to that in WT cells. Promoter Database (EPD) revealed two putative anti-oxidant response elements (AREs) within the mouse ERβ promoter. Furthermore, in WT MEFs, E2 treatment repressed TNF-α-induced expression of iNOS protein and recovered by 4-(2-phenyl-5,7-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo(1,5-a)pyrimidin-3-yl)phenol (PHTPP), a selective ERβ antagonist, treatment, but not in Nrf2 KO MEFs. In conclusion, Nrf2 plays a pivotal role in the anti-inflammatory of estrogen by direct regulating the expression of ERβ.
Collapse
|
33
|
TrxR1, Gsr, and oxidative stress determine hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:11408-11417. [PMID: 31097586 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1903244116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Thioredoxin reductase-1 (TrxR1)-, glutathione reductase (Gsr)-, and Nrf2 transcription factor-driven antioxidant systems form an integrated network that combats potentially carcinogenic oxidative damage yet also protects cancer cells from oxidative death. Here we show that although unchallenged wild-type (WT), TrxR1-null, or Gsr-null mouse livers exhibited similarly low DNA damage indices, these were 100-fold higher in unchallenged TrxR1/Gsr-double-null livers. Notwithstanding, spontaneous cancer rates remained surprisingly low in TrxR1/Gsr-null livers. All genotypes, including TrxR1/Gsr-null, were susceptible to N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver cancer, indicating that loss of these antioxidant systems did not prevent cancer cell survival. Interestingly, however, following DEN treatment, TrxR1-null livers developed threefold fewer tumors compared with WT livers. Disruption of TrxR1 in a marked subset of DEN-initiated cancer cells had no effect on their subsequent contributions to tumors, suggesting that TrxR1-disruption does not affect cancer progression under normal care, but does decrease the frequency of DEN-induced cancer initiation. Consistent with this idea, TrxR1-null livers showed altered basal and DEN-exposed metabolomic profiles compared with WT livers. To examine how oxidative stress influenced cancer progression, we compared DEN-induced cancer malignancy under chronically low oxidative stress (TrxR1-null, standard care) vs. elevated oxidative stress (TrxR1/Gsr-null livers, standard care or phenobarbital-exposed TrxR1-null livers). In both cases, elevated oxidative stress was correlated with significantly increased malignancy. Finally, although TrxR1-null and TrxR1/Gsr-null livers showed strong Nrf2 activity in noncancerous hepatocytes, there was no correlation between malignancy and Nrf2 expression within tumors across genotypes. We conclude that TrxR1, Gsr, Nrf2, and oxidative stress are major determinants of liver cancer but in a complex, context-dependent manner.
Collapse
|
34
|
Gorodetska I, Kozeretska I, Dubrovska A. BRCA Genes: The Role in Genome Stability, Cancer Stemness and Therapy Resistance. J Cancer 2019; 10:2109-2127. [PMID: 31205572 PMCID: PMC6548160 DOI: 10.7150/jca.30410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenesis is a multistep process, and tumors frequently harbor multiple mutations regulating genome integrity, cell division and death. The integrity of cellular genome is closely controlled by the mechanisms of DNA damage signaling and DNA repair. The association of breast cancer susceptibility genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 with breast and ovarian cancer development was first demonstrated over 20 years ago. Since then the germline mutations within these genes were linked to genomic instability and increased risk of many other cancer types. Genomic instability is an engine of the oncogenic transformation of non-tumorigenic cells into tumor-initiating cells and further tumor evolution. In this review we discuss the biological functions of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and the role of BRCA mutations in tumor initiation, regulation of cancer stemness, therapy resistance and tumor progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ielizaveta Gorodetska
- OncoRay-National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden, Germany
| | - Iryna Kozeretska
- Department of General and Medical Genetics, ESC "The Institute of Biology and Medicine", Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna Dubrovska
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Radiooncology - OncoRay, Dresden, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner site Dresden, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Potential Applications of NRF2 Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:8592348. [PMID: 31097977 PMCID: PMC6487091 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8592348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The NRF2/KEAP1 pathway represents one of the most important cell defense mechanisms against exogenous or endogenous stressors. Indeed, by increasing the expression of several cytoprotective genes, the transcription factor NRF2 can shelter cells and tissues from multiple sources of damage including xenobiotic, electrophilic, metabolic, and oxidative stress. Importantly, the aberrant activation or accumulation of NRF2, a common event in many tumors, confers a selective advantage to cancer cells and is associated to malignant progression, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis. Hence, in the last years, NRF2 has emerged as a promising target in cancer treatment and many efforts have been made to identify therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting its prooncogenic role. By summarizing the results from past and recent studies, in this review, we provide an overview concerning the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway, its biological impact in solid and hematologic malignancies, and the molecular mechanisms causing NRF2 hyperactivation in cancer cells. Finally, we also describe some of the most promising therapeutic approaches that have been successfully employed to counteract NRF2 activity in tumors, with a particular emphasis on the development of natural compounds and the adoption of drug repurposing strategies.
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang XL, Wang ZZ, Shao QH, Zhang Z, Li L, Guo ZY, Sun HM, Zhang Y, Chen NH. RNAi-mediated knockdown of DJ-1 leads to mitochondrial dysfunction via Akt/GSK-3ß and JNK signaling pathways in dopaminergic neuron-like cells. Brain Res Bull 2019; 146:228-236. [PMID: 30634017 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Deletions or some mutations in the gene encoding the multifunctional protein, DJ-1, have been considered to be linked with autosomal recessive early onset Parkinson's disease (PD). Current emerging evidence suggests that DJ-1 is involved in the protection against oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial damage. However, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying this are not completely clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of DJ-1 on the Akt pathway, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) with regard to modulating mitochondrial function. Here we showed that knockdown of DJ-1 resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction, including a decrease in active mitochondrial mass, complex I deficits, and inhibition of cellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) content in the dopaminergic neuron-like cells PC12 and SH-SY5Y. Additionally, loss of DJ-1 impaired Akt signaling, and reduced nuclear translocation of Nrf2, thereby inhibiting activity of Nrf2-regulated downstream antioxidant enzymes such as heme oxygenase-1 and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1. Moreover, DJ-1 knockdown also led to a significant increase in the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and then promoted the activation of JNK pathways. Furthermore, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by knockdown of DJ-1 were blocked by a JNK inhibitor, which confirmed the important role of JNK activation in mitochondrial dysfunction. In conclusion, the present study indicates that DJ-1 knockdown leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in dopaminergic neuron-like cells, at least in part, through suppressing the Akt/GSK3β pathway and impairing the oxidative stress response, as well as through the subsequent increased JNK activation in dopaminergic neuron-like cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Qian-Hang Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Lin Li
- Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Zhen-Yu Guo
- Department of Anatomy, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Hong-Mei Sun
- Department of Anatomy, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Nai-Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Reactive oxygen species modulate macrophage immunosuppressive phenotype through the up-regulation of PD-L1. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:4326-4335. [PMID: 30770442 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1819473116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The combination of immune checkpoint blockade with chemotherapy is currently under investigation as a promising strategy for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most prominent component of the breast cancer microenvironment because they influence tumor progression and the response to therapies. Here we show that macrophages acquire an immunosuppressive phenotype and increase the expression of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) when treated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) inducers such as the glutathione synthesis inhibitor, buthionine sulphoximine (BSO), and paclitaxel. Mechanistically, these agents cause accumulation of ROS that in turn activate NF-κB signaling to promote PD-L1 transcription and the release of immunosuppressive chemokines. Systemic in vivo administration of paclitaxel promotes PD-L1 accumulation on the surface of TAMS in a mouse model of TNBC, consistent with in vitro results. Combinatorial treatment with paclitaxel and an anti-mouse PD-L1 blocking antibody significantly improved the therapeutic efficacy of paclitaxel by reducing tumor burden and increasing the number of tumor-associated cytotoxic T cells. Our results provide a strong rationale for the use of anti-PD-L1 blockade in the treatment of TNBC patients. Furthermore, interrogation of chemotherapy-induced PD-L1 expression in TAMs is warranted to define appropriate patient selection in the use of PD-L1 blockade.
Collapse
|
38
|
Murthy P, Muggia F. Women's cancers: how the discovery of BRCA genes is driving current concepts of cancer biology and therapeutics. Ecancermedicalscience 2019; 13:904. [PMID: 30915162 PMCID: PMC6411414 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2019.904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last two decades, discoveries related to the breast cancer susceptibility genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1 and BRCA2) have profoundly changed our understanding and management of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The concept of synthetic lethality, which arises when cells become vulnerable to a combination of deficiencies in DNA repair, has driven the expanding roles of poly (adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribose) polymerase inhibitors in breast and ovarian cancers, and prevention strategies are taking into account the tissue specificity, natural history (fallopian tube origin of some high-grade serous ovarian cancers) and hormone sensitivity of BRCA-associated cancers. Current research has focussed on further elucidating the roles of BRCA proteins in DNA repair, investigating other key DNA repair processes and proteins and linking aberrant DNA repair with carcinogenesis. The ultimate goal is to translate this evolving knowledge into improving the clinical care and treatment of patients with pathogenic BRCA variants or other deficiencies in homologous recombination (HR). In this review, we will discuss 1) the role of BRCA proteins in DNA repair; 2) emerging concepts in the biology of HR deficiency and 3) implications for prevention and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Murthy
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Maimonides Cancer Center, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA
| | - Franco Muggia
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
AhR controls redox homeostasis and shapes the tumor microenvironment in BRCA1-associated breast cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:3604-3613. [PMID: 30733286 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1815126116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells have higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) than normal cells, due to genetic and metabolic alterations. An emerging scenario is that cancer cells increase ROS to activate protumorigenic signaling while activating antioxidant pathways to maintain redox homeostasis. Here we show that, in basal-like and BRCA1-related breast cancer (BC), ROS levels correlate with the expression and activity of the transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Mechanistically, ROS triggers AhR nuclear accumulation and activation to promote the transcription of both antioxidant enzymes and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand, amphiregulin (AREG). In a mouse model of BRCA1-related BC, cancer-associated AhR and AREG control tumor growth and production of chemokines to attract monocytes and activate proangiogenic function of macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Interestingly, the expression of these chemokines as well as infiltration of monocyte-lineage cells (monocyte and macrophages) positively correlated with ROS levels in basal-like BC. These data support the existence of a coordinated link between cancer-intrinsic ROS regulation and the features of tumor microenvironment. Therapeutically, chemical inhibition of AhR activity sensitizes human BC models to Erlotinib, a selective EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, suggesting a promising combinatorial anticancer effect of AhR and EGFR pathway inhibition. Thus, AhR represents an attractive target to inhibit redox homeostasis and modulate the tumor promoting microenvironment of basal-like and BRCA1-associated BC.
Collapse
|
40
|
Semmler L, Reiter-Brennan C, Klein A. BRCA1 and Breast Cancer: a Review of the Underlying Mechanisms Resulting in the Tissue-Specific Tumorigenesis in Mutation Carriers. J Breast Cancer 2019; 22:1-14. [PMID: 30941229 PMCID: PMC6438831 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2019.22.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first cloning of BRCA1 in 1994, many of its cellular interactions have been elucidated. However, its highly specific role in tumorigenesis in the breast tissue—carriers of BRCA1 mutations are predisposed to life-time risks of up to 80%—relative to many other tissues that remain unaffected, has not yet been fully enlightened. In this article, we have applied a universal model of tissue-specificity of cancer genes to BRCA1 and present a systematic review of proposed concepts classified into 4 categories. Firstly, tissue-specific differences in levels of BRCA1 expression and secondly differences in expression of proteins with redundant functions are outlined. Thirdly, cell-type specific interactions of BRCA1 are presented: its regulation of aromatase, its interaction with Progesterone- and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand-signaling that controls proliferation of luminal progenitor cells, and its influence on cell differentiation via modulation of the key regulators jagged 1-NOTCH and snail family transcriptional repressor 2. Fourthly, factors specific to the cell-type as well as the environment of the breast tissue are elucidated: distinct frequency of losses of heterozygosity, interaction with X inactivation specific transcript RNA, estrogen-dependent induction of genotoxic metabolites and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, and regulation of sirtuin 1. In conclusion, the impact of these concepts on the formation of hormone-sensitive and -insensitive breast tumors is outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Semmler
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cara Reiter-Brennan
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Klein
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Urpilainen E, Kangaskokko J, Puistola U, Karihtala P. Metformin diminishes the unfavourable impact of Nrf2 in breast cancer patients with type 2 diabetes. Tumour Biol 2019; 41:1010428318815413. [DOI: 10.1177/1010428318815413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) is a major regulator of the oxidative stress response and it is negatively regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The Keap1–Nrf2 axis has a fundamental role in carcinogenesis. In previous studies, the widely used diabetes drug metformin has appeared to have a critical role in the regulation of Nrf2 function. In this study, we assessed the expression of Nrf2 and Keap1 immunohistochemically in 157 patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent breast cancer surgery with curative intent. In total, 78 (49.7%) of these patients were taking metformin alone or combined with other oral anti-diabetic medication at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. We found that high-level cytoplasmic Nrf2 expression predicted dismal overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival, but only in the patients who were not taking metformin at the time of diagnosis. Similarly, low-level nuclear Keap1 expression had an adverse prognostic value in terms of overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival in patients without metformin. On the other hand, high-level nuclear Keap1 expression was associated with prolonged overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival. The results may be explained in terms of non-functioning or displaced Keap1, although more mechanistic pre-clinical and prospective clinical studies are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elina Urpilainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jenni Kangaskokko
- Department of Pathology and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ulla Puistola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PEDEGO Research Unit and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Peeter Karihtala
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Paramasivan P, Kankia IH, Langdon SP, Deeni YY. Emerging role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in the mechanism of action and resistance to anticancer therapies. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2019; 2:490-515. [PMID: 35582567 PMCID: PMC8992506 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a transcription factor, is a master regulator of an array of genes related to oxidative and electrophilic stress that promote and maintain redox homeostasis. NRF2 function is well studied in in vitro, animal and general physiology models. However, emerging data has uncovered novel functionality of this transcription factor in human diseases such as cancer, autism, anxiety disorders and diabetes. A key finding in these emerging roles has been its constitutive upregulation in multiple cancers promoting pro-survival phenotypes. The survivability pathways in these studies were mostly explained by classical NRF2 activation involving KEAP-1 relief and transcriptional induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) neutralizing and cytoprotective drug-metabolizing enzymes (phase I, II, III and 0). Further, NRF2 status and activation is associated with lowered cancer therapeutic efficacy and the eventual emergence of therapeutic resistance. Interestingly, we and others have provided further evidence of direct NRF2 regulation of anticancer drug targets like receptor tyrosine kinases and DNA damage and repair proteins and kinases with implications for therapy outcome. This novel finding demonstrates a renewed role of NRF2 as a key modulatory factor informing anticancer therapeutic outcomes, which extends beyond its described classical role as a ROS regulator. This review will provide a knowledge base for these emerging roles of NRF2 in anticancer therapies involving feedback and feed forward models and will consolidate and present such findings in a systematic manner. This places NRF2 as a key determinant of action, effectiveness and resistance to anticancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poornima Paramasivan
- Division of Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD1 1HG, United Kingdom
| | - Ibrahim H. Kankia
- Division of Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD1 1HG, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina PMB 2218, Nigeria
| | - Simon P. Langdon
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre and Edinburgh Pathology, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, United Kingdom
| | - Yusuf Y. Deeni
- Division of Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD1 1HG, United Kingdom
- Correspondence Address: Prof. Yusuf Y Deeni, Division of Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee DD1 1HG, United Kingdom. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Czogalla B, Kahaly M, Mayr D, Schmoeckel E, Niesler B, Kolben T, Burges A, Mahner S, Jeschke U, Trillsch F. Interaction of ERα and NRF2 Impacts Survival in Ovarian Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010112. [PMID: 30597961 PMCID: PMC6337731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) regulates cytoprotective antioxidant processes. In this study, the prognostic potential of NRF2 and its interactions with the estrogen receptor α (ERα) in ovarian cancer cells was investigated. NRF2 and ERα protein expression in ovarian cancer tissue was analyzed as well as mRNA expression of NRF2 (NFE2L2) and ERα (ESR1) in four ovarian cancer and one benign cell line. NFE2L2 silencing was carried out to evaluate a potential interplay between NRF2 and ERα. Cytoplasmic NRF2 expression as inactive form had significantly higher expression in patients with low-grade histology (p = 0.03). In the serous cancer subtype, high cytoplasmic NRF2 expression (overall survival (OS), median 50.6 vs. 29.3 months; p = 0.04) and high ERα expression (OS, median 74.5 vs. 27.1 months; p = 0.002) was associated with longer overall survival as well as combined expression of both inactive cytoplasmic NRF2 and ERα in the whole cohort (median 74.5 vs. 37.7 months; p = 0.04). Cytoplasmic NRF2 expression showed a positive correlation with ERα expression (p = 0.004). NFE2L2 was found to be highly expressed in the ovarian cancer cell lines OVCAR3, UWB1.289, and TOV112D. Compared with the benign cell line HOSEpiC, ESR1 expression was reduced in all ovary cancer cell lines (all p < 0.001). Silencing of NFE2L2 induced a higher mRNA expression of ESR1 in the NFE2L2 downregulated cancer cell lines OVCAR3 (p = 0.003) and ES2 (p < 0.001), confirming genetic interactions of NRF2 and ERα. In this study, both inactive cytoplasmic NRF2 and high ERα expression were demonstrated to be associated with improved survival in ovarian cancer patients. Further understanding of interactions within the estradiol⁻ERα⁻NRF2 pathway could better predict the impact of endocrine therapy in ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Czogalla
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Maja Kahaly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Doris Mayr
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, 81377 LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Elisa Schmoeckel
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, 81377 LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Beate Niesler
- Institute of Human Genetics, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Alexander Burges
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Sven Mahner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Fabian Trillsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Song JH, Singh N, Luevano LA, Padi SKR, Okumura K, Olive V, Black SM, Warfel NA, Goodrich DW, Kraft AS. Mechanisms Behind Resistance to PI3K Inhibitor Treatment Induced by the PIM Kinase. Mol Cancer Ther 2018; 17:2710-2721. [PMID: 30190422 PMCID: PMC6279580 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-18-0374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cancer resistance to PI3K inhibitor therapy can be in part mediated by increases in the PIM1 kinase. However, the exact mechanism by which PIM kinase promotes tumor cell resistance is unknown. Our study unveils the pivotal control of redox signaling by PIM kinases as a driver of this resistance mechanism. PIM1 kinase functions to decrease cellular ROS levels by enhancing nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/antioxidant response element activity. PIM prevents cell death induced by PI3K-AKT-inhibitory drugs through a noncanonical mechanism of NRF2 ubiquitination and degradation and translational control of NRF2 protein levels through modulation of eIF4B and mTORC1 activity. Importantly, PIM also controls NAD(P)H production by increasing glucose flux through the pentose phosphate shunt decreasing ROS production, and thereby diminishing the cytotoxicity of PI3K-AKT inhibitors. Treatment with PIM kinase inhibitors reverses this resistance phenotype, making tumors increasingly susceptible to small-molecule therapeutics, which block the PI3K-AKT pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin H Song
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Neha Singh
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona
| | | | | | - Koichi Okumura
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Virginie Olive
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Stephen M Black
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Noel A Warfel
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona
| | - David W Goodrich
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, New York, New York
| | - Andrew S Kraft
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona.
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Baek HJ, Kim SE, Kim JK, Shin DH, Kim TH, Kim KG, Deng CX, Kim SS. Inhibition of AKT suppresses the initiation and progression of BRCA1-associated mammary tumors. Int J Biol Sci 2018; 14:1769-1781. [PMID: 30443181 PMCID: PMC6231214 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.29242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the high incidence of BRCA1-mutant breast cancer, few substantial improvements in preventing or treating such cancers have been made. Using a Brca1-mutant mouse model, we examined the contribution of AKT to the incidence and growth of Brca1-mutated mammary tumors. A haploinsufficiency of Akt1 in Brca1-mutant mouse model significantly decreased mammary tumor formation from 54% in Brca1co/coMMTV-Cre mice to 22% in Brca1 co/coMMTV-Cre Akt1+/- mice. Notably, treatment of tumor-bearing Brca1-mutant mice with the AKT-inhibitor, MK-2206, yielded partial response or stable disease up to 91% of mice in maximum response. MK-2206 treatment also significantly reduced tumor volume and delayed recurrence in allograft and adjuvant studies, respectively. A correlation analysis of MK-2206 responses with gene expression profiles of tumors at baseline identified seven genes that were differentially expressed between tumors that did and did not respond to MK-2206 treatment. Our findings enhance our understanding of the involvement of AKT signaling in BRCA1-deficient mammary tumors and provide preclinical evidence that targeted AKT inhibition is a potential strategy for the prevention and therapeutic management of BRCA1-associated breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Jung Baek
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| | - Sun Eui Kim
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| | - Jong Kwang Kim
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| | - Kwang Gi Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, 21565, Korea
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Sang Soo Kim
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Yeo SK, Paul R, Haas M, Wang C, Guan JL. Improved efficacy of mitochondrial disrupting agents upon inhibition of autophagy in a mouse model of BRCA1-deficient breast cancer. Autophagy 2018; 14:1214-1225. [PMID: 29938573 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2018.1460010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease, and stratification of patients is fundamental to the success of treatment modalities. Breast tumors deficient in BRCA1 are mostly associated with basal-like breast cancers and targeted therapeutics for this disease subtype are still lacking. In order to address whether macroautophagy/autophagy inhibition will be effective in BRCA1-deficient mammary tumors, we generated mice with conditional deletion of an essential autophagy gene, Rb1cc1, along with Brca1 and Trp53, through utilization of the K14-Cre transgene. We found that Rb1cc1 deletion suppressed tumorigenesis in the BRCA1-deficient model when compared to wild type and heterozygous Rb1cc1 controls. However, in contrast to previous studies in the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-polyoma middle T antigen (PyMT) model, tumor growth and the distribution of histological subtypes were not affected by loss of RB1CC1. Interestingly, loss of RB1CC1 decreased mitochondrial mass and oxidative respiratory capacity of these tumor cells, along with a decrease in the phosphorylation of MTOR substrates and transcript levels of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. Importantly, we observed an increased sensitivity to mitochondrial disrupting agents upon loss of RB1CC1. Consequently, our data showed that combination of an autophagy inhibitor, spautin-1, along with a mitochondrial complex I inhibitor, metformin, was more effective in limiting oxidative respiratory capacity, colony-forming ability and tumor growth. Altogether, our results indicate that inhibition of autophagy can increase the benefits of metformin treatment in BRCA1-deficient breast cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syn Kok Yeo
- a Department of Cancer Biology , University of Cincinnati College of Medicine , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Ritama Paul
- a Department of Cancer Biology , University of Cincinnati College of Medicine , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Michael Haas
- a Department of Cancer Biology , University of Cincinnati College of Medicine , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Chenran Wang
- a Department of Cancer Biology , University of Cincinnati College of Medicine , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| | - Jun-Lin Guan
- a Department of Cancer Biology , University of Cincinnati College of Medicine , Cincinnati , OH , USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Bi Y, Verginadis II, Dey S, Lin L, Guo L, Zheng Y, Koumenis C. Radiosensitization by the PARP inhibitor olaparib in BRCA1-proficient and deficient high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 150:534-544. [PMID: 30025822 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Approximately 15-25% of high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOC) harbor BRCA1/2 mutations. Inhibition of Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is synthetically lethal to cells and tumors with BRCA1/2 mutation. Our goal was to investigate the radiosensitizing effects of PARP inhibitor olaparib in HGSOC with different BRCA1 status. METHODS The radiosensitizing effects of olaparib were tested on BRCA1-proficient and deficient HGSOC by clonogenic survival and tumor growth assays. The effects of olaparib and radiation on DNA damage, PARP activity, and apoptosis were determined. RESULTS BRCA1-deficient HGSOC cells were more sensitive to RT alone and exhibited significantly higher levels of olaparib-mediated radiosensitization compared to BRCA1-proficient cells. Furthermore, when combined with RT, olaparib inhibited DNA damage repair and PARP1 activity, increased apoptosis, decreased growth of HGSOC xenografts and increased overall host survival. The growth-inhibitory effects of the combined olaparib and RT treatment were more pronounced in mice bearing BRCA1-deficient tumors compared to BRCA1-proficient tumors. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a preclinical rationale for improved treatment modalities using olaparib as an effective radiosensitizer in HGSOC, particularly in tumors with BRCA1-deficiencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Bi
- Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510280, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ioannis I Verginadis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Souvik Dey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Lilie Lin
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Division of Radiation Oncology, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Linlang Guo
- Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510280, China
| | - Yanfang Zheng
- Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510280, China.
| | - Constantinos Koumenis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang C, Bai F, Zhang LH, Scott A, Li E, Pei XH. Estrogen promotes estrogen receptor negative BRCA1-deficient tumor initiation and progression. Breast Cancer Res 2018; 20:74. [PMID: 29996906 PMCID: PMC6042319 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-018-0996-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen promotes breast cancer development and progression mainly through estrogen receptor (ER). However, blockage of estrogen production or action prevents development of and suppresses progression of ER-negative breast cancers. How estrogen promotes ER-negative breast cancer development and progression is poorly understood. We previously discovered that deletion of cell cycle inhibitors p16Ink4a (p16) or p18Ink4c (p18) is required for development of Brca1-deficient basal-like mammary tumors, and that mice lacking p18 develop luminal-type mammary tumors. METHODS A genetic model system with three mouse strains, one that develops ER-positive mammary tumors (p18 single deletion) and the others that develop ER-negative tumors (p16;Brca1 and p18;Brca1 compound deletion), human BRCA1 mutant breast cancer patient-derived xenografts, and human BRCA1-deficient and BRCA1-proficient breast cancer cells were used to determine the role of estrogen in activating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), stimulating cell proliferation, and promoting ER-negative mammary tumor initiation and metastasis. RESULTS Estrogen stimulated the proliferation and tumor-initiating potential of both ER-positive Brca1-proficient and ER-negative Brca1-deficient tumor cells. Estrogen activated EMT in a subset of Brca1-deficient mammary tumor cells that maintained epithelial features, and enhanced the number of cancer stem cells, promoting tumor progression and metastasis. Estrogen activated EMT independent of ER in Brca1-deficient, but not Brca1-proficient, tumor cells. Estrogen activated the AKT pathway in BRCA1-deficient tumor cells independent of ER, and pharmaceutical inhibition of AKT activity suppressed EMT and cell proliferation preventing BRCA1 deficient tumor progression. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals for the first time that estrogen promotes BRCA1-deficient tumor initiation and progression by stimulation of cell proliferation and activation of EMT, which are dependent on AKT activation and independent of ER.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuying Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061 People’s Republic of China
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Feng Bai
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Li-han Zhang
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Alexandria Scott
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Enxiao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin-Hai Pei
- Molecular Oncology Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dewitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
van de Ven M, Liu X, van der Burg E, Klarenbeek S, Alexi X, Zwart W, Dijcks F, Bouwman P, Jonkers J. BRCA1-associated mammary tumorigenesis is dependent on estrogen rather than progesterone signaling. J Pathol 2018; 246:41-53. [PMID: 29877575 DOI: 10.1002/path.5105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary breast cancers in BRCA1 mutation carriers are mostly estrogen receptor α (ERα)-negative and progesterone receptor (PR)-negative; however, hormone depletion via bilateral oophorectomy does result in a marked reduction in breast cancer risk, suggesting that BRCA1-associated breast tumorigenesis is dependent on hormone signaling. We used geneticaly engineered mouse models to determine the individual influences of ERα and PR signaling on the development of BRCA1-deficient breast cancer. In line with the human data, BRCA1-deficient mouse mammary tumors are ERα-negative, and bilateral ovariectomy leads to abrogation of mammary tumor development. Hormonal replacement experiments in ovariectomized mice showed that BRCA1-deficient mammary tumor formation is promoted by estrogen but not by progesterone. In line with these data, mammary tumorigenesis was significantly delayed by the selective ERα downregulator fulvestrant, but not by the selective PR antagonist Org33628. Together, our results illustrate that BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis is dependent on estrogen signaling rather than on progesterone signaling, and call into question the utility of PR antagonists as a tumor prevention strategy for BRCA1 mutation carriers. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marieke van de Ven
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaoling Liu
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eline van der Burg
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Klarenbeek
- Experimental Animal Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xanthippi Alexi
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Zwart
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fred Dijcks
- Synthon Biopharmaceuticals B.V, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Bouwman
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Jonkers
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Koundouros N, Poulogiannis G. Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase/Akt Signaling and Redox Metabolism in Cancer. Front Oncol 2018; 8:160. [PMID: 29868481 PMCID: PMC5968394 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring and the consequent production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are necessary to promote tumorigenesis. At the nexus of these cellular processes is the aberrant regulation of oncogenic signaling cascades such as the phosphoinositide 3-kinase and AKT (PI3K/Akt) pathway, which is one of the most frequently dysregulated pathways in cancer. In this review, we examine the regulation of ROS metabolism in the context of PI3K-driven tumors with particular emphasis on four main areas of research. (1) Stimulation of ROS production through direct modulation of mitochondrial bioenergetics, activation of NADPH oxidases (NOXs), and metabolic byproducts associated with hyperactive PI3K/Akt signaling. (2) The induction of pro-tumorigenic signaling cascades by ROS as a consequence of phosphatase and tensin homolog and receptor tyrosine phosphatase redox-dependent inactivation. (3) The mechanisms through which PI3K/Akt activation confers a selective advantage to cancer cells by maintaining redox homeostasis. (4) Opportunities for therapeutically exploiting redox metabolism in PIK3CA mutant tumors and the potential for implementing novel combinatorial therapies to suppress tumor growth and overcome drug resistance. Further research focusing on the multi-faceted interactions between PI3K/Akt signaling and ROS metabolism will undoubtedly contribute to novel insights into the extensive pro-oncogenic effects of this pathway, and the identification of exploitable vulnerabilities for the treatment of hyperactive PI3K/Akt tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikos Koundouros
- Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Poulogiannis
- Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Computational and Systems Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|