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Zhang D, Li L, Ma F. Integrative analyses identified gap junction beta-2 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for breast cancer. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e128. [PMID: 38948248 PMCID: PMC11212300 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence has shown that connexins are involved in the regulation of tumor development, immune escape, and drug resistance. This study investigated the gene expression patterns, prognostic values, and potential mechanisms of connexins in breast cancer. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of connexins using public gene and protein expression databases and clinical samples from our institution. Connexin mRNA expressions in breast cancer and matched normal tissues were compared, and multiomics studies were performed. Results Gap junction beta-2 mRNA was overexpressed in breast cancers of different pathological types and molecular subtypes, and its high expression was associated with poor prognosis. The tumor membrane of the gap junction beta-2 mutated group was positive, and the corresponding protein was expressed. Somatic mutation and copy number variation of gap junction beta-2 are rare in breast cancer. The gap junction beta-2 transcription level in the p110α subunit of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase mutant subgroup was higher than that in the wild-type subgroup. Gap junction beta-2 was associated with the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt signaling pathway, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and proteoglycans in cancer. Furthermore, gap junction beta-2 overexpression may be associated with phosphoinositide 3-kinase and histone deacetylase inhibitor resistance, and its expression level correlated with infiltrating CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. Conclusions Gap junction beta-2 may be a promising therapeutic target for targeted therapy and immunotherapy and may be used to predict breast cancer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- Department of Medical OncologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of Medical OncologyQilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Lixi Li
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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Mulkearns-Hubert EE, Rhoades EE, Ben-Salem S, Bharti R, Hajdari N, Johnson S, Myers A, Smith IN, Bandyopadhyay S, Eng C, Downs E, Lathia JD, Reizes O. Targeting NANOG and FAK via Cx26-derived Cell-penetrating Peptides in Triple-negative Breast Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:56-67. [PMID: 37703580 PMCID: PMC10840808 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0783] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents the most lethal and treatment-resistant breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. We previously identified a protein complex unique to TNBC composed of the gap junction protein connexin 26 (Cx26), the pluripotency transcription factor NANOG, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). We sought to determine whether a peptide mimetic of the interaction region of Cx26 attenuated tumor growth in preclinical models. We designed peptides based on Cx26 juxtamembrane domains and performed binding experiments with NANOG and FAK using surface plasmon resonance. Binding studies revealed that the Cx26 C-terminal tail and intracellular loop bound to NANOG and FAK with submicromolar-to-micromolar affinity and that a 5-amino acid sequence in the C-terminal tail of Cx26 (RYCSG) was sufficient for binding. Peptides with high affinity were engineered with a cell-penetrating antennapedia sequence and assessed in functional assays including cell proliferation, tumorsphere formation, and in vivo tumor growth, and downstream signaling changes were measured. The cell-penetrating Cx26 peptide (aCx26-pep) disrupted self-renewal while reducing nuclear FAK and NANOG and inhibiting NANOG target gene expression in TNBC cells but not luminal mammary epithelial cells. In vivo, aCx26-pep reduced tumor growth and proliferation and induced cell death. Here, we provide proof-of-concept that a Cx26 peptide-based strategy inhibits growth and alters NANOG activity specifically in TNBC, indicating the therapeutic potential of this targeting approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Mulkearns-Hubert
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Emily Esakov Rhoades
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Salma Ben-Salem
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Rashmi Bharti
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Nicole Hajdari
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Sadie Johnson
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Alex Myers
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Iris Nira Smith
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - Smarajit Bandyopadhyay
- Molecular Biotechnology Core, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - Erinn Downs
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Justin D. Lathia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, 10900 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44106
| | - Ofer Reizes
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cancer Impact Area, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, 10900 Euclid Ave. Cleveland, OH 44106
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Liang H, Li J, Zhang K. Pathogenic role of S100 proteins in psoriasis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1191645. [PMID: 37346040 PMCID: PMC10279876 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1191645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. The histopathological features of psoriasis include excessive proliferation of keratinocytes and infiltration of immune cells. The S100 proteins are a group of EF-hand Ca2+-binding proteins, including S100A2, -A7, -A8/A9, -A12, -A15, which expression levels are markedly upregulated in psoriatic skin. These proteins exert numerous functions such as serving as intracellular Ca2+ sensors, transduction of Ca2+ signaling, response to extracellular stimuli, energy metabolism, and regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis. Evidence shows a crucial role of S100 proteins in the development and progress of inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis. S100 proteins can possibly be used as potential therapeutic target and diagnostic biomarkers. This review focuses on the pathogenic role of S100 proteins in psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Liang
- ShanXi Key Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
- State Key Breeding Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junqin Li
- ShanXi Key Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
- State Key Breeding Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Kaiming Zhang
- ShanXi Key Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
- State Key Breeding Laboratory of Stem Cells for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan City Center Hospital, Taiyuan, China
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Zhang J, Wang Z, Liang Z, Jin C, Shi Y, Fan M, Hu X, Wan Y. NFIC1 inhibits the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells through S100A2-mediated inactivation of MEK/ERK pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 734:109497. [PMID: 36574914 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2022.109497] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
NFIC is a potent transcriptional factor involved in many physiological and pathological processes, including tumorigenesis. However, the role of NFIC1, the longest isoform of NFIC, in the progression of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains elusive. Our study demonstrates that overexpression of NFIC1 inhibits the migration and invasion of TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells. NFIC1 regulates the expression of S100A2, and knockdown of S100A2 reverses the inhibitive effects of NFIC1 on the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of S100A2 activates the MEK/ERK signaling transduction pathway that is inhibited by NFIC1 overexperssion. Treatment with MEK/ERK pathway inhibitor, U0126, abolishes the effects of S100A2 knockdown. In addition, overexpression of NFIC1 in MDA-MB-231 cells increases the expression of epithelial markers and decreases the expression of mesenchymal markers, and these effects could also be reversed by knockdown of S100A2. Collectively, these results demonstrate that NFIC1 inhibits the Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of MDA-MB-231 cells by regulating S100A2 expression, which suppress the activation of MEK/ERK pathway. Therefore, our study confirms the role of NFIC1 as a tumor repressor in TNBC, and reveals the molecular mechanism through which NFIC1 inhibits the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China; School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, China
| | - Zhaoying Wang
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China; School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, China
| | - Zehua Liang
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
| | - Chanjuan Jin
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
| | - Yueru Shi
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
| | - Mingyue Fan
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China; School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, China
| | - Xin Hu
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
| | - Youzhong Wan
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China.
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Dahl E, Villwock S, Habenberger P, Choidas A, Rose M, Klebl BM. White Paper: Mimetics of Class 2 Tumor Suppressor Proteins as Novel Drug Candidates for Personalized Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184386. [PMID: 36139547 PMCID: PMC9496810 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A concept is presented for a new therapeutic approach, still in its early stages, which focuses on the phenotypic mimicry (“mimesis”) of proteins encoded by highly disease-relevant class 2 tumor suppressor genes that are silenced by DNA promoter methylation. Proteins derived from tumor suppressor genes are usually considered control systems of cells against oncogenic properties. Thus they represent the brakes in the “car-of-life.” Restoring this “brake function” in tumors by administering mimetic drugs may have a significant therapeutic effect. The proposed approach could thus open up a new, hitherto unexploited area of research for the development of anticancer drugs for difficult-to-treat cancers. Abstract The aim of our proposed concept is to find new target structures for combating cancers with unmet medical needs. This, unfortunately, still applies to the majority of the clinically most relevant tumor entities such as, for example, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and many others. Current target structures almost all belong to the class of oncogenic proteins caused by tumor-specific genetic alterations, such as activating mutations, gene fusions, or gene amplifications, often referred to as cancer “driver alterations” or just “drivers.” However, restoring the lost function of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) could also be a valid approach to treating cancer. TSG-derived proteins are usually considered as control systems of cells against oncogenic properties; thus, they represent the brakes in the “car-of-life.” Restoring these tumor-defective brakes by gene therapy has not been successful so far, with a few exceptions. It can be assumed that most TSGs are not being inactivated by genetic alteration (class 1 TSGs) but rather by epigenetic silencing (class 2 TSGs or short “C2TSGs”). Reactivation of C2TSGs in cancer therapy is being addressed by the use of DNA demethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors which act on the whole cancer cell genome. These epigenetic therapies have neither been particularly successful, probably because they are “shotgun” approaches that, although acting on C2TSGs, may also reactivate epigenetically silenced oncogenic sequences in the genome. Thus, new strategies are needed to exploit the therapeutic potential of C2TSGs, which have also been named DNA methylation cancer driver genes or “DNAme drivers” recently. Here we present a concept for a new translational and therapeutic approach that focuses on the phenotypic imitation (“mimesis”) of proteins encoded by highly disease-relevant C2TSGs/DNAme drivers. Molecular knowledge on C2TSGs is used in two complementary approaches having the translational concept of defining mimetic drugs in common: First, a concept is presented how truncated and/or genetically engineered C2TSG proteins, consisting solely of domains with defined tumor suppressive function can be developed as biologicals. Second, a method is described for identifying small molecules that can mimic the effect of the C2TSG protein lost in the cancer cell. Both approaches should open up a new, previously untapped discovery space for anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Dahl
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), D-52074 Aachen, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Sophia Villwock
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Peter Habenberger
- Lead Discovery Center GmbH (LDC), Otto-Hahn-Straße 15, D-44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Axel Choidas
- Lead Discovery Center GmbH (LDC), Otto-Hahn-Straße 15, D-44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Michael Rose
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, D-52074 Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), D-52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Bert M. Klebl
- Lead Discovery Center GmbH (LDC), Otto-Hahn-Straße 15, D-44227 Dortmund, Germany
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Rose M, Huth S, Wiesehöfer M, Ehling J, Henkel C, Steitz J, Lammers T, Kistermann J, Klaas O, Koch M, Rushrush S, Knüchel R, Dahl E. ITIH5-Derived Polypeptides Covering the VIT Domain Suppress the Growth of Human Cancer Cells In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030488. [PMID: 35158755 PMCID: PMC8833355 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic drivers such as mutated EGFR are the preferred targets in modern drug development. However, restoring the lost function of tumor suppressor proteins could also be a valid approach to combatting cancer. ITIH5 has been revealed as a potent metastasis suppressor in both breast and pancreatic cancer. Here, we show that ITIH5 overexpression in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells can also locally suppress tumor growth by 85%, when transplanted into the mammary fat pad of nude mice. For a potential drug development approach, we further aimed to define downsized ITIH5 polypeptides that still are capable of mediating growth inhibitory effects. By cloning truncated and His-tagged ITIH5 fragments, we synthesized two recombinant N-terminal polypeptides (ITIH5681aa and ITIH5161aa), both covering the ITI heavy chain specific “vault protein inter-alpha-trypsin” (VIT) domain. Truncated ITIH5 variants caused dose-dependent cell growth inhibition by up to 50% when applied to various cancer cell lines (e.g., MDA-MB-231, SCaBER, A549) reflecting breast, bladder and lung cancer in vitro. Thus, our data suggest the substantial role of the ITIH5-specific VIT domain in ITIH5-mediated suppression of tumor cell proliferation. As extracellularly administered ITIH5 peptides mimic the growth-inhibitory effects of the full-length ITIH5 tumor suppressor protein, they may constitute the basis for developing anticancer drugs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Rose
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (E.D.); Tel.: +49-241-80-89715 (M.R.); +49-241-80-88431 (E.D.); Fax: +49-241-8082439 (M.R. & E.D.)
| | - Sebastian Huth
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Marc Wiesehöfer
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Josef Ehling
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.E.); (T.L.)
| | - Corinna Henkel
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
- Bruker Daltonik GmbH, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Julia Steitz
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen and Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.E.); (T.L.)
| | - Jennifer Kistermann
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Oliver Klaas
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Maximilian Koch
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Sandra Rushrush
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Ruth Knüchel
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Edgar Dahl
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.H.); (M.W.); (C.H.); (J.K.); (O.K.); (M.K.); (S.R.); (R.K.)
- Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (E.D.); Tel.: +49-241-80-89715 (M.R.); +49-241-80-88431 (E.D.); Fax: +49-241-8082439 (M.R. & E.D.)
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Liu S, Medina-Perez P, Ha-Thi MC, Wieland A, Stecklum M, Hoffmann J, Tchernitsa O, Sers C, Schäfer R. Rapid testing of candidate oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes in signal transduction and neoplastic transformation. Adv Biol Regul 2021; 83:100841. [PMID: 34866037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2021.100841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The COSMIC database (version 94) lists 576 genes in the Cancer Gene Census which have a defined function as drivers of malignancy (oncogenes) or as tumour suppressors (Tier 1). In addition, there are 147 genes with similar functions, but which are less well characterised (Tier 2). Furthermore, next-generation sequencing projects in the context of precision oncology activities are constantly discovering new ones. Since cancer genes differ from their wild-type precursors in numerous molecular and biochemical properties and exert significant differential effects on downstream processes, simple assays that can uncover oncogenic or anti-oncogenic functionality are desirable and may precede more sophisticated analyses. We describe simple functional assays for PTPN11 (protein-tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor-type 11)/SHP2 mutants, which are typically found in RASopathies and exhibit potential oncogenic activity. We have also designed a functional test for lysyl oxidase (LOX), a prototypical class II tumour suppressor gene whose loss of function may contribute to neoplastic transformation by RAS oncogenes. Moreover, we applied this test to analyse three co-regulated, RAS-responsive genes for transformation-suppressive activity. The integration of these tests into systems biology studies will contribute to a better understanding of cellular networks in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Paula Medina-Perez
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Minh-Cam Ha-Thi
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja Wieland
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Stecklum
- Experimental Pharmacology and Oncology GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, D-13125, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Jens Hoffmann
- Experimental Pharmacology and Oncology GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, D-13125, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Oleg Tchernitsa
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Sers
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Reinhold Schäfer
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumour Pathology and Cancer Systems Biology, Institute of Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117, Berlin, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany; Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center Berlin, Germany.
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8
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Unal YC, Yavuz B, Ozcivici E, Mese G. The role of connexins in breast cancer: from misregulated cell communication to aberrant intracellular signaling. Tissue Barriers 2021; 10:1962698. [PMID: 34355641 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2021.1962698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In spite of clinical advancements and improved diagnostic techniques, breast cancers are the leading cause of cancer-associated deaths in women worldwide. Although 70% of early breast cancers can be cured, there are no efficient therapies against metastatic breast cancers. Several factors including connexins and gap junctions play roles in breast tumorigenesis. Connexins are critical for cellular processes as a linkage between connexin mutations and hereditary disorders demonstrated their importance for tissue homeostasis. Further, alterations in their expression, localization and channel activities were observed in many cancers including breast cancer. Both channel-dependent and independent functions of connexins were reported in initiation and progression of cancers. Unlike initial reports suggesting tumor suppressor functions, connexins and gap junctions have stage, context and isoform dependent effects in breast cancers similar to other cancers. In this review, we tried to describe the current understanding of connexins in tumorigenesis specifically in breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Ceren Unal
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Busra Yavuz
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Engin Ozcivici
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gulistan Mese
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Izmir, Turkey
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9
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Yang L, Liu B, Chen H, Gao R, Huang K, Guo Q, Li F, Chen W, He J. Progress in the application of organoids to breast cancer research. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:5420-5427. [PMID: 32283573 PMCID: PMC7214171 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women. Breast cancer research is currently based mainly on animal models and traditional cell culture. However, the inherent species gap between humans and animals, as well as differences in organization between organs and cells, limits research advances. The breast cancer organoid can reproduce many of the key features of human breast cancer, thereby providing a new platform for investigating the mechanisms underlying the development, progression, metastasis and drug resistance of breast cancer. The application of organoid technology can also promote drug discovery and the design of individualized treatment strategies. Here, we discuss the latest advances in the use of organoid technology for breast cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baoer Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haodong Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rui Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kanghua Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiuyi Guo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weicai Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinsong He
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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10
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Trace elements and oxidative stress status in patients with psoriasis. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2020; 37:333-339. [PMID: 32792872 PMCID: PMC7394161 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2020.94265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Psoriasis is a common, inflammatory skin disease of which etiopathogenesis is still not explained clearly, however in which trace elements and oxidative stress are considered to play a role. Aim To evaluate the serum trace element and oxidative stress levels in patients diagnosed with psoriasis. Material and methods A total of 87 psoriasis patients and 60 healthy subjects were included in the study. Serum sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) levels, oxidative stress parameters, ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and ferroxidase (FOX) activity and an inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (CRP), were examined in all participants. Results IMA, IMA/Albumin (IMA/Alb), CAT, Cu, FOX and CRP levels were found to be significantly higher; Se, Zn and albumin levels were significantly lower in the patient group as compared to the control group. No significant difference was found between groups with regard to Na, K, Ca, P, Mg, Fe and MPO levels. Conclusions Some trace element levels and oxidant-antioxidant balance were changed in psoriasis patients.
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11
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Direct Intercellular Communications and Cancer: A Snapshot of the Biological Roles of Connexins in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091370. [PMID: 31540089 PMCID: PMC6770088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue homeostasis is the result of a complex intercellular network controlling the behavior of every cell for the survival of the whole organism. In mammalian tissues, cells do communicate via diverse long- and short-range communication mechanisms. While long-range communication involves hormones through blood circulation and neural transmission, short-range communication mechanisms include either paracrine diffusible factors or direct interactions (e.g., gap junctions, intercellular bridges and tunneling nanotubes) or a mixture of both (e.g., exosomes). Tumor growth represents an alteration of tissue homeostasis and could be the consequence of intercellular network disruption. In this network, direct short-range intercellular communication seems to be particularly involved. The first type of these intercellular communications thought to be involved in cancer progression were gap junctions and their protein subunits, the connexins. From these studies came the general assumption that global decreased connexin expression is correlated to tumor progression and increased cell proliferation. However, this assumption appeared more complicated by the fact that connexins may act also as pro-tumorigenic. Then, the concept that direct intercellular communication could be involved in cancer has been expanded to include new forms of intercellular communication such as tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) and exosomes. TNTs are intercellular bridges that allow free exchange of small molecules or even mitochondria depending on the presence of gap junctions. The majority of current research shows that such exchanges promote cancer progression by increasing resistance to hypoxia and chemotherapy. If exosomes are also involved in these mechanisms, more studies are needed to understand their precise role. Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a type of malignancy with one of the highest incidence rates worldwide. The precise role of these types of direct short-range intercellular communication has been considered in the progression of PCa. However, even though data are in favor of connexins playing a key role in PCa progression, a clear understanding of the role of TNTs and exosomes is needed to define their precise role in this malignancy. This review article summarizes the current view of the main mechanisms involved in short-range intercellular communication and their implications in cancer and delves into the biological, predictive and therapeutic role of connexins in PCa.
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12
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Ko KY, Lee JH, Jang JK, Jin Y, Kang H, Kim IY. S-Glutathionylation of mouse selenoprotein W prevents oxidative stress-induced cell death by blocking the formation of an intramolecular disulfide bond. Free Radic Biol Med 2019; 141:362-371. [PMID: 31299423 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mouse selenoprotein W (SELENOW) is a small protein containing a selenocysteine (Sec, U) and four cysteine (Cys, C) residues. The Sec residue in SELENOW is located within the conserved CXXU motif corresponding to the CXXC redox motif of thioredoxin (Trx). It is known that glutathione (GSH) binds to SELENOW and that this binding is involved in protecting cells from oxidative stress. However, the regulatory mechanisms controlling the glutathionylation of SELENOW in oxidative stress are unclear. In this study, using purified recombinant SELENOW in which Sec13 was changed to Cys, we found that SELENOW was glutathionylated at Cys33 and that this S-glutathionylation was enhanced by oxidative stress. We also found that the S-glutathionylation of SELENOW at Cys33 in HEK293 cells was due to glutathione S-transferase Pi (GSTpi) and that this modification was reversed by glutaredoxin1 (Grx1). In addition to the disulfide bond between the Cys10 and Cys13 of SELENOW, a second disulfide bond was formed between Cys33 and Cys87 under oxidative stress conditions. The second disulfide bond was reduced by Trx1, but the disulfide bond between Cys10 and Cys13 was not. The second disulfide bond was also reduced by glutathione, but the disulfide bond in the CXXC motif was not. The second disulfide bond of the mutant SELENOW, in which Cys37 was replaced with Ser, was formed at a much lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide than the wild type. We also observed that Cys37 was required for S-glutathionylation, and that S-glutathionylated SELENOW containing Cys37 protected the cells from oxidative stress. Furthermore, the SELENOW (C33, 87S) mutant, which could not form the second disulfide bond, also showed antioxidant activity. Taken together, these results indicate that GSTpi-mediated S-glutathionylation of mouse SELENOW at Cys33 is required for the protection of cells in conditions of oxidative stress, through inhibition of the formation of the second disulfide bond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwan Young Ko
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea
| | - Jea Hwang Lee
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge ST, Boston, MA, 02114-2790, USA
| | - Jun Ki Jang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea
| | - Yunjung Jin
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea
| | - Hyunwoo Kang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea
| | - Ick Young Kim
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea.
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13
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Sinyuk M, Mulkearns-Hubert EE, Reizes O, Lathia J. Cancer Connectors: Connexins, Gap Junctions, and Communication. Front Oncol 2018; 8:646. [PMID: 30622930 PMCID: PMC6308394 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite concerted clinical and research efforts, cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have remained the most common standard-of-care strategies against cancer for decades. However, the side effects of these therapies demonstrate the need to investigate adjuvant novel treatment modalities that minimize the harm caused to healthy cells and tissues. Normal and cancerous cells require communication amongst themselves and with their surroundings to proliferate and drive tumor growth. It is vital to understand how intercellular and external communication impacts tumor cell malignancy. To survive and grow, tumor cells, and their normal counterparts utilize cell junction molecules including gap junctions (GJs), tight junctions, and adherens junctions to provide contact points between neighboring cells and the extracellular matrix. GJs are specialized structures composed of a family of connexin proteins that allow the free diffusion of small molecules and ions directly from the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, without encountering the extracellular milieu, which enables rapid, and coordinated cellular responses to internal and external stimuli. Importantly, connexins perform three main cellular functions. They enable direct gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) between cells, form hemichannels to allow cell communication with the extracellular environment, and serve as a site for protein-protein interactions to regulate signaling pathways. Connexins themselves have been found to promote tumor cell growth and invasiveness, contributing to the overall tumorigenicity and have emerged as attractive anti-tumor targets due to their functional diversity. However, connexins can also serve as tumor suppressors, and therefore, a complete understanding of the roles of the connexins and GJs in physiological and pathophysiological conditions is needed before connexin targeting strategies are applied. Here, we discuss how the three aspects of connexin function, namely GJIC, hemichannel formation, and connexin-protein interactions, function in normal cells, and contribute to tumor cell growth, proliferation, and death. Finally, we discuss the current state of anti-connexin therapies and speculate which role may be most amenable for the development of targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maksim Sinyuk
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Erin E. Mulkearns-Hubert
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ofer Reizes
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Justin Lathia
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
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14
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Bai Y, Li LD, Li J, Lu X. Prognostic values of S100 family members in ovarian cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:1256. [PMID: 30558666 PMCID: PMC6296138 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-5170-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Exhibiting high consistence in sequence and structure, S100 family members are interchangeable in function and they show a wide spectrum of biological processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, inflammation and differentiation and the like. While the prognostic value of each individual S100 in ovarian cancer is still elusive. In current study, we investigated the prognostic value of S100 family members in the ovarian cancer. Methods We used the Kaplan Meier plotter (KM plotter) database, in which updated gene expression data and survival information are from 1657 ovarian cancer patients, to assess the relevance of individual S100 family mRNA expression to overall survival in various ovarian cancer subtypes and different clinicopathological features. Results It was found that high expression of S100A2 (HR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.04–1.34, P = 0.012), S100A7A (HR = 1.3, 95%CI: 1.04–1.63, P = 0.02),S100A10 (HR = 1.2, 95%CI: 1.05–1.38, P = 0.0087),and S100A16 (HR = 1.23, 95%CI: 1–1.51, P = 0.052) were significantly correlated with worse OS in all ovarian cancer patients, while the expression of S100A1 (HR = 0.87, 95%CI: 0.77–0.99, P = 0.039), S100A3 (HR = 0.83, 95%CI: 0.71–0.96, P = 0.0011), S100A5 (HR = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.73–0.97, P = 0.017), S100A6 (HR = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.72–0.98, P = 0.024), S100A13 (HR = 0.85, 95%CI:0.75–0.97, P = 0.014) and S100G (HR = 0.86, 95%CI: 0.74–0.99, P = 0.041) were associated with better prognosis. Furthermore, we assessed the prognostic value of S100 expression in different subtypes and the clinicopathological features, including pathological grades, clinical stages and TP53 mutation status, of ovarian cancer patients. Conclusion Comprehensive understanding of the S100 family members may have guiding significance for the diagnosis and outcome of ovarian cancer patients. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-5170-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Bai
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Liang-Dong Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200030, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jun Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Present Address: Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, No.419, Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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15
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Moscato S, Cabiati M, Bianchi F, Vaglini F, Morales MA, Burchielli S, Botta L, Sabbatini ARM, Falleni A, Del Ry S, Mattii L. Connexin 26 Expression in Mammalian Cardiomyocytes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13975. [PMID: 30228305 PMCID: PMC6143590 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32405-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of membrane-spanning proteins named according to their molecular weight. They are known to form membrane channels mediating cell-cell communication, which play an essential role in the propagation of electrical activity in the heart. Cx26 has been described in a number of tissues but not in the heart, and its mutations are frequently associated with deafness and skin diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the possible Cx26 expression in heart tissues of different mammalian species and to demonstrate its localization at level of cardiomyocytes. Samples of pig, human and rat heart and H9c2 cells were used for our research. Immunohistochemical and molecular biology techniques were employed to test the expression of Cx26. Interestingly, this connexin was found in cardiomyocytes, at level of clusters scattered over the cell cytoplasm but not at level of the intercalated discs where the other cardiac connexins are usually located. Furthermore, the expression of Cx26 in H9c2 myoblast cells increased when they were differentiated into cardiac-like phenotype. To our knowledge, the expression of Cx26 in pig, human and rat has been demonstrated for the first time in the present paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Moscato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Cabiati
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Bianchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Vaglini
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M A Morales
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - L Botta
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - A R M Sabbatini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and of Emergency Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Del Ry
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Mattii
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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16
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Zhang Q, Wu S, Liu L, Hou X, Jiang J, Wei X, Hao W. Effects of bisphenol A on gap junctions in HaCaT cells as mediated by the estrogen receptor pathway. J Appl Toxicol 2018; 39:271-281. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.3717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Lu Liu
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Science; Peking University; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Xiaohong Hou
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Jianjun Jiang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Xuetao Wei
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Weidong Hao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health; Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety; Beijing 100191 China
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17
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Nakase T, Ishikawa T, Miyata H. Protective effects of connexins in atheromatous plaques in patients of carotid artery stenosis. Neuropathology 2017; 37:97-104. [PMID: 27739121 DOI: 10.1111/neup.12345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fragility of atheromatous plaque in the internal carotid artery can be a risk of brain infarction. The activation of macrophages by oxidative stress and the vulnerability of vascular endothelial cells have been reported to participate in the fragility of atheromatous plaque. Therefore, from the view point of prevention of brain infarction, we investigated the pathological factors which may influence the stabilization of atheromatous plaque. Patients undertaking carotid endoarterectomy (CEA) were continuously screened. Then, 21 samples were obtained from the atheromatous plaques of CEA patients. The expression of connexin (Cx) which composes a gap junction, an intercellular communication organ, was immunohistochemicaly observed. The expression of CD36, an oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor, was assessed as a marker of oxidative stress. As a result, asymptomatic plaques which were assumed the stable plaques expressed Cx43 along with CD36 expression. In contrast, in the symptomatic plaques, the expression of Cx43 was few and there was almost no coexpression with CD36. The distribution of Cx37 expression was not different between asymptomatic and symptomatic plaques. The expressions of CD36, Cx37 and Cx43 showed no relation to the previous treatment with statins. In conclusion, Cx43 might contribute to the stabilization of atheromatous plaque which is affected by oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taizen Nakase
- Department of Stroke Science, Research Institute for Brain and Blood Vessels - Akita, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ishikawa
- Department of Surgical Neurology, Research Institute for Brain and Blood Vessels - Akita, Japan
| | - Hajime Miyata
- Department of Neuropathology, Research Institute for Brain and Blood Vessels - Akita, Japan
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18
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Connexin's Connection in Breast Cancer Growth and Progression. Int J Cell Biol 2016; 2016:9025905. [PMID: 27642298 PMCID: PMC5011527 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9025905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are cell-to-cell junctions that are located in the basolateral surface of two adjoining cells. A gap junction channel is composed of a family of proteins called connexins. Gap junction channels maintain intercellular communication between two cells through the exchange of ions, small metabolites, and electrical signals. Gap junction channels or connexins are widespread in terms of their expression and function in maintaining the development, differentiation, and homeostasis of vertebrate tissues. Gap junction connexins play a major role in maintaining intercellular communication among different cell types of normal mammary gland for proper development and homeostasis. Connexins have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Differential expression pattern of connexins and their gap junction dependent or independent functions provide pivotal cross talk of breast tumor cells with the surrounding stromal cell in the microenvironment. Substantial research from the last 20 years has accumulated ample evidences that allow us a better understanding of the roles that connexins play in the tumorigenesis of primary breast tumor and its metastatic progression. This review will summarize the knowledge about the connexins and gap junction activities in breast cancer highlighting the differential expression and functional dynamics of connexins in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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19
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Delisle A, Ferraris E, Plante I. Chronic exposure to hexachlorobenzene results in down-regulation of connexin43 in the breast. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 143:229-240. [PMID: 26519829 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Decreased expression of connexins has been associated with cancer, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We have previously shown that a 5 day exposure to hexachlorobenzene (HCB) resulted in decreased connexins expression in hepatocytes 45 days later, and that this down-regulation was linked to activation of Akt through the ILK pathway. Because HCB promotes cancer in both the liver and breast, the present study aimed to determine if the mechanisms are similar in both tissues. MCF-12A breast cells were thus transfected with vectors coding for either Akt or a constitutively active form of Akt. In those cells, activation of Akt was correlated with decreased Cx43 levels. Female rats were then exposed to HCB by gavage either following the same protocol used previously for the liver or through a chronic exposure. While no changes were observed after the 5 days exposure protocol, chronic exposure to HCB resulted in increased Akt levels and decreased Cx43 levels in breast cells. In vitro, Akt was activated in MCF-12A cells exposed to HCB either for 7 days or chronically, but no changes were observed in junctional proteins. Together, these results suggested that, while activation of Akt can decrease Cx43 expression in breast cells in vitro, other mechanisms are involved during HCB exposure, leading to a decrease in Cx43 levels in a model- and duration-dependent manner. Finally, we showed that HCB effects are tissue specific, as we did not observe the same results in breast and liver tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Delisle
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada H7V 1B7
| | | | - Isabelle Plante
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada H7V 1B7. http://www.inrs.ca
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20
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Liu J, Fang S, Ding Q, Wang Y, Ye T, Zhu H, Zhang X, Li B, Xu Y, Li Z. Mutations of connexin 26 (GJB2) gene in a Chinese keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness syndrome patient with squamous cell carcinoma. J Dermatol 2015; 43:104-6. [PMID: 26444850 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Liu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Shan Fang
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Qiuyun Ding
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University; Baoding China
| | - Yanli Wang
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University; Baoding China
| | - Teng Ye
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Haigang Zhu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Xueqi Zhang
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Bingxu Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Yunsheng Xu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
| | - Zhiming Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology; The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University; Wenzhou China
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Schalper KA, Carvajal-Hausdorf D, Oyarzo MP. Possible role of hemichannels in cancer. Front Physiol 2014; 5:237. [PMID: 25018732 PMCID: PMC4073485 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are the building blocks of hemichannels. These proteins are frequently altered in neoplastic cells and have traditionally been considered as tumor suppressors. Alteration of Cxs and Panxs in cancer cells can be due to genetic, epigenetic and post-transcriptional/post-translational events. Activated hemichannels mediate the diffusional membrane transport of ions and small signaling molecules. In the last decade hemichannels have been shown to participate in diverse cell processes including the modulation of cell proliferation and survival. However, their possible role in tumor growth and expansion remains largely unexplored. Herein, we hypothesize about the possible role of hemichannels in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. To support this theory, we summarize the evidence regarding the involvement of hemichannels in cell proliferation and migration, as well as their possible role in the anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, we discuss the evidence linking hemichannels with cancer in diverse models and comment on the current technical limitations for their study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt A Schalper
- Servicio Anatomía Patológica, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Facultad de Medicina Clinica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile ; Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Mauricio P Oyarzo
- Servicio Anatomía Patológica, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Facultad de Medicina Clinica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
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22
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Chandrasekhar A, Kalmykov EA, Polusani SR, Mathis SA, Zucker SN, Nicholson BJ. Intercellular redistribution of cAMP underlies selective suppression of cancer cell growth by connexin26. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82335. [PMID: 24312655 PMCID: PMC3849486 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx), which constitute gap junction intercellular channels in vertebrates, have been shown to suppress transformed cell growth and tumorigenesis, but the mechanism(s) still remain largely speculative. Here, we define the molecular basis by which Cx26, but less frequently Cx43 or Cx32, selectively confer growth suppression on cancer cells. Functional intercellular coupling is shown to be required, producing partial blocks of the cell cycle due to prolonged activation of several mitogenic kinases. PKA is both necessary and sufficient for the Cx26 induced growth inhibition in low serum and the absence of anchorage. Activation of PKA was not associated with elevated cAMP levels, but appeared to result from a redistribution of cAMP throughout the cell population, eliminating the cell cycle oscillations in cAMP required for efficient cell cycle progression. Cx43 and Cx32 fail to mediate this redistribution as, unlike Cx26, these channels are closed during the G2/M phase of the cell cycle when cAMP levels peak. Comparisons of tumor cell lines indicate that this is a general pattern, with growth suppression by connexins occurring whenever cAMP oscillates with the cell cycle, and the gap junction remain open throughout the cell cycle. Thus, gap junctional coupling, in the absence of any external signals, provides a general means to limit the mitotic rate of cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Chandrasekhar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Edward A. Kalmykov
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Srikanth R. Polusani
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sandra A. Mathis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shoshanna N. Zucker
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Social and Administrative Sciences, D'Youville College School of Pharmacy,Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Bruce J. Nicholson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
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Tumor suppressor candidate TUSC3 expression during rat testis maturation. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2013; 77:2019-24. [PMID: 24096664 DOI: 10.1271/bbb.130327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of microarray data obtained by comparing gene expression between 2-week-old infant and 7-week-old mature SD rat testes revealed novel targets involved in tumor suppression. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and Northern blotting indicated that Tusc3 gene expression was upregulated in the normal maturing testis and prostate and other organs such as the cerebrum and ovary. Tumor suppressor candidate 3 protein expression was detected in these same organs at a size of about 40 kDa, in accord with the predicted molecular size. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry showed that mRNA and protein localization were prevalent in the testis spermatocytes and interstitial cells such as the Leydig cells, as well as prostate epithelial cells. These data suggest that TUSC3 is deeply involved in spermatogenesis in the testis, inducing sperm differentiation and maturation, and plays a role in normal prostate development and tumor suppression.
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Halawi A, Abbas O, Mahalingam M. S100 proteins and the skin: a review. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2013; 28:405-14. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Halawi
- Department of Dermatology; American University of Beirut Medical Center; Beirut Lebanon
| | - O. Abbas
- Department of Dermatology; American University of Beirut Medical Center; Beirut Lebanon
| | - M. Mahalingam
- Dermatopathology Section; Department of Dermatology; Boston University School of Medicine; Boston MA USA
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25
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Avshalumova L, Fabrikant J, Koriakos A. Overview of skin diseases linked to connexin gene mutations. Int J Dermatol 2013; 53:192-205. [DOI: 10.1111/ijd.12062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan Fabrikant
- Texas Division; Department of Dermatology; Larkin Community Hospital; Miami FL USA
| | - Angie Koriakos
- Department of Dermatology; University of North Texas Health Science Center/Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine; Houston TX USA
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26
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Komurcu-Bayrak E, Ozsait B, Erginel-Unaltuna N. Isolation and analysis of genes mainly expressed in adult mouse heart using subtractive hybridization cDNA library. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 39:8065-74. [PMID: 22544609 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-1653-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Subtractive hybridization cDNA library (SHL) is one of the powerful approaches for isolating differentially expressed genes. Using this technique between mouse heart and skeletal muscle (skm) tissues, we aimed to construct a cDNA-library that was specific to heart tissue and to identify the potential candidate genes that might be responsible for the development of cardiac diseases or related pathophysiological conditions. In the first step of the study, we created a cDNA-library between mouse heart and skm tissues. The homologies of the randomly selected 215 clones were analyzed and then classified by function. A total of 146 genes were analyzed for their expression profiles in the heart and skm tissues in published mouse microarray dataset. In the second step, we analyzed the expression patterns of the selected genes by Northern blot and RNA in situ hybridization (RISH). In Northern blot analyses, the expression levels of Myl3, Myl2, Mfn2, Dcn, Pdlim4, mt-Co3, mt-Co1, Atpase6 and Tsc22d1 genes were higher in heart than skm. For first time with this study, expression patterns of Pdlim4 and Tsc22d1 genes in mouse heart and skm were shown by RISH. In the last step, 43 genes in this library were identified to have relationships mostly with cardiac diseases and/or related phenotypes. This is the first study reporting differentially expressed genes in healthy mouse heart using SHL technique. This study confirms our hypothesis that tissue-specific genes are most likely to have a disease association, if they possess mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evrim Komurcu-Bayrak
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Vakif Gureba Cad., 34080 Sehremini, Istanbul, Turkey
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27
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Kaku Y, Tanizaki H, Tanioka M, Sakabe J, Miyagawa-Hayashino A, Tokura Y, Miyachi Y, Kabashima K. Sebaceous carcinoma arising at a chronic candidiasis skin lesion of a patient with keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome. Br J Dermatol 2011; 166:222-4. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10521.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Choi C, Kim D, Kim S, Jeong S, Song E, Helfman DM. From skeletal muscle to cancer: insights learned elucidating the function of tropomyosin. J Struct Biol 2011; 177:63-9. [PMID: 22119848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2011.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Revised: 11/08/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The tropomyosins (Tms) are a family of actin filament binding proteins that possess a simple dimeric α-helical coiled-coil structure along their entire length. Our knowledge of Tm structure and function has greatly expanded since they were first discovered in skeletal muscle almost 65 years ago. In multicellular organisms they exhibit extensive cell type specific isoform diversity. In this essay we discuss the genetic mechanisms by which this diversity is generated and its significance to actin-based cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheolwon Choi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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29
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Oleinik NV, Krupenko NI, Krupenko SA. Epigenetic Silencing of ALDH1L1, a Metabolic Regulator of Cellular Proliferation, in Cancers. Genes Cancer 2011; 2:130-9. [PMID: 21779486 DOI: 10.1177/1947601911405841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 02/17/2011] [Accepted: 02/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
FDH (10-formyltetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, the product of the ALDH1L1 gene), a major folate-metabolizing enzyme in the cytosol, is involved in the regulation of cellular proliferation. We have previously demonstrated that FDH is strongly and ubiquitously down-regulated in malignant human tumors and cancer cell lines. Here, we report that promoter methylation is a major mechanism controlling FDH levels in human cancers. A computational analysis has identified an extensive CpG island in the ALDH1L1 promoter region. It contains 96 CpG pairs and covers the region between -525 and +918 bp of the ALDH1L1 gene including the promoter, the entire exon 1, and a part of intron 1 immediately downstream of the exon. Bisulfite sequencing analysis revealed extensive methylation of the island (76%-95% of CpGs) in cancer cell lines. In agreement with these findings, treatment of FDH-deficient A549 cells with the methyltransferase inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine restored FDH expression. Analysis of the samples from patients with lung adenocarcinomas demonstrated methylation of the ALDH1L1 CpG island in tumor samples and a total lack of methylation in respective normal tissues. The same phenomenon was observed in liver tissues: the CpG island was methylation free in DNA extracted from normal hepatocytes but was extensively methylated in a hepatocellular carcinoma. Levels of ALDH1L1 mRNA and protein correlated with the methylation status of the island, with tumor samples demonstrating down-regulation of expression or even complete silencing of the gene. Our studies have also revealed that exon 1 significantly increases transcriptional activity of ALDH1L1 promoter in a luciferase reporter assay. Interestingly, the exon is extensively methylated in samples with a strongly down-regulated or silenced ALDH1L1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia V Oleinik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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30
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Lee K, Yun ST, Yun CO, Ahn BY, Jo EC. S100A2 promoter-driven conditionally replicative adenovirus targets non-small-cell lung carcinoma. Gene Ther 2011; 19:967-77. [PMID: 22033466 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2011.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
S100A2, a member of the S100 family of calcium-binding proteins, has been implicated in carcinogenesis as both a tumor suppressor and stimulator. Here, we characterized promoter activity of S100A2, generated an S100A2 promoter-driven conditionally replicative adenovirus (Ad/SA), and evaluated its anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo. Promoter activity of S100A2 was greatly restricted to tumor cells, and the S100A2 promoter bound with typical nuclear targets of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling. EGF-stimulated EGFR phosphorylation induced S100A2 expression and further activated E1A expression of Ad/SA, which was restored by EGFR signal inhibition in a concentration-dependent manner in non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). In two EGFR-activated tumor xenograft animal models, Ad/SA exhibited potent anti-tumor activity, whereas cetuximab, an EGFR-targeting anticancer drug, was active transiently or ineffective. Combined treatment with cetuximab or cisplatin plus Ad/SA resulted in enhanced anti-tumor activity. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor sections showed moderate-to-high grade signals for EGFR and adenovirus, and a reduction in viable cells in Ad/SA-treated tumors. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the S100A2 promoter-driven adenovirus is a potent inhibitor of cancers, and further suggest that S100A2 is a target gene of EGFR signaling pathway in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Lee
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, MOGAM Biotechnology Research Institute, Yongin, Republic of Korea
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31
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Burr DB, Molina SA, Banerjee D, Low DM, Takemoto DJ. Treatment with connexin 46 siRNA suppresses the growth of human Y79 retinoblastoma cell xenografts in vivo. Exp Eye Res 2011; 92:251-9. [PMID: 21320488 PMCID: PMC3060947 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2011.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Revised: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Tumors with a hypoxic component, including human Y79 retinoblastoma cells, express a specific gap junction protein, Connexin 46 (Cx46), which is usually only found in naturally hypoxic tissues such as the differentiated lens. The aim of this study was to investigate if Cx46 downregulation would suppress Y79 tumor formation in vivo. Five-week old nude mice were subcutaneously implanted with human Y79 retinoblastoma cells and treated with intratumor siRNA injections of 30 μg Cx46 siRNA (n = 6), 30 μg non-silencing siRNA (n = 6), or no siRNA treatment (n = 6) every 2 days for a maximum of 10 treatments. Tumor volume (TV) was calculated from the recorded caliper measurements of length and width. Excised tumors were measured and weighed. Western blot analyses were performed to evaluate Cx46 and Cx43 expression in tumors which received Cx46 siRNA, non-silencing siRNA, or no siRNA treatment. Tumor histopathology was used to assess tumor features. Cx46 siRNA treated Y79 tumors had a reduced TV (287 mm(3) ± 77 mm(3)) when compared to the tumors of mice receiving the negative control siRNA (894 mm(3) ± 218 mm(3); P ≤ 0.03) or no siRNA (1068 mm(3) ± 192 mm(3); P ≤ 0.002). A 6-fold knockdown of Cx46 and a 3-fold rise in Cx43 protein expression was observed from western blots of tumors treated with Cx46 siRNA compared to mice treated with non-silencing siRNA. Knockdown of Cx46 with siRNA had an antitumor effect on human Y79 retinoblastoma tumors in the nude mouse model. The results suggest that anti-Cx46 therapy may be a potential target in the future treatment of retinoblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana B. Burr
- Department of Biochemistry, 141 Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Oncology, 106A Mosier Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Samuel A. Molina
- Department of Biochemistry, 141 Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
| | - Debarshi Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, 141 Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
| | - Derek M. Low
- Department of Biochemistry, 141 Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
| | - Dolores J. Takemoto
- Department of Biochemistry, 141 Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
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32
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Cx43 suppresses mammary tumor metastasis to the lung in a Cx43 mutant mouse model of human disease. Oncogene 2010; 30:1681-92. [PMID: 21151177 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions, the channels formed by the connexin (Cx) family of proteins, are responsible for direct intercellular communication. Although connexins are considered as tumor suppressors, their overall role in cancer onset, progression and metastasis is somewhat controversial. This study uses a novel Cx43 mutant mouse model (G60S mice) and cross-breeding strategies to determine the role of Cx43 in all stages of breast tumorigenesis. G60S mice were cross-bred with ErbB2 overexpressing mice, and spontaneous and 7,12-dimethylbenz[α]anthracene (DMBA)-induced tumor development was evaluated. Mice were killed when tumors reached ∼1 cm(3) or when mice showed signs of critical illness. In both spontaneous and DMBA studies, onset of palpable tumors was delayed in G60S mice compared with mice in control groups. Moreover, while tumors from control mice reached the size threshold, most DMBA-exposed Cx43 mutant mice were killed prematurely because of labored breathing, independent of the presence of a palpable tumor. Reduced Cx43 levels in Cx43 mutant mice were accompanied by extensive mammary gland hyperplasia. Lung histology revealed that all Cx43 mutant mice exhibited mammaglobin-positive mammary gland metastases to the lung, and the number of metastases was increased by threefold in Cx43 mutant mice on treatment with DMBA. Thus, while reduced levels of Cx43 delayed the onset of palpable tumors, normal Cx43 levels inhibited mammary gland tumor metastasis to the lungs. Understanding the mechanisms of how Cx43, which is expressed primarily in myoepithelial cells, inhibits mammary gland tumor metastasis is critical as Cx43 is assessed as a candidate for therapeutic intervention.
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Dentillo DB, Meola J, Rosa e Silva JC, Giuliatti S, Silva Junior WA, Ferriani RA, Martelli L. Deregulation of LOXL1 and HTRA1 gene expression in endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2010; 17:1016-23. [PMID: 20940247 DOI: 10.1177/1933719110377662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecologic disease characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. Although 15% of the female population in reproductive age is affected by endometriosis, its pathogenesis remains unclear. According to the most accepted pathogenesis hypothesis, endometrial fragments from the menstrual phase are transported through the uterine tubes to the peritoneal cavity, where they undergo implantation and growth, invading adjacent tissues. However, the establishment of the disease requires that endometrial cells present molecular characteristics favoring the onset and progression of ectopic implantation. In this investigation, we analyzed the differential gene expression profiles of peritoneal and ovarian endometriotic lesions compared to the endometrial tissue of nonaffected women using rapid subtraction hybridization (RaSH). In our study, this method was applied to samples of endometriotic lesions from affected women and to biopsies of endometrium of healthy women without endometriosis, where we could identify 126 deregulated genes. To evaluate the expression of genes found by RaSH method, we measured LOXL1, HTRA1, and SPARC genes by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Significant different expression was obtained for HTRA1 and LOXL1, upregulated in the ectopic endometrium, suggesting that these genes are involved in the physiopathology of endometriosis and may favor the viability of endometrial cells at ectopic sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Blassioli Dentillo
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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34
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Luo J, Zhu Y, Yang G, Gong L, Wang B, Liu H. Loss of Reprimo and S100A2 expression in human gastric adenocarcinoma. Diagn Cytopathol 2010; 39:752-7. [PMID: 20949468 DOI: 10.1002/dc.21461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2009] [Accepted: 05/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Reprimo and S100A2 are two newly identified candidate tumor-suppressor genes, which play an important role in the regulation of p53-dependent cell cycle. In this study, we examined the expressions of Reprimo and S100A2 in surgical specimens of gastric adenocarcinoma and correlated these results with pathological and clinical parameters. Tissues were obtained from 100 gastric adenocarcinoma patients that underwent curative gastrectomy. Reprimo and S100A2 expressions were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. Loss of Reprimo and S100A2 expressions occurred in 65 and 52% of the patients, respectively. Loss of Reprimo expression was significantly correlated with the depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.000), lymphatic vessel invasion (P = 0.006), and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.000). Loss of S100A2 expression was significantly associated with histological type (P = 0.009), depth of invasion (P = 0.033), lymphatic vessel invasion (P = 0.01), and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001). In addition, there was a significant positive association between the expressions of Reprimo and S100A2 (P < 0.01). The results suggest that loss of Reprimo and S100A2 expressions occurs frequently in gastric adenocarcinomas. The expressions of Reprimo and S100A2 may be potential biomarkers for gastric adenocarcinomas detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Luo
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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35
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Ren X, Lin J, Jin C, Xia B. 1H, 13C and 15N resonance assignments of human H-REV107 N-terminal domain. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2010; 4:175-178. [PMID: 20526701 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-010-9238-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 05/20/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Human H-REV107 protein is the representative of a novel class II tumor suppressor family, which is lost in tumor cells and can induce cell death after restoration. The NMR assignments of the H-REV107 N-terminal domain are essential for its solution structure determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobai Ren
- Beijing Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Center, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, China
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36
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Koch M, Diez J, Wagner A, Fritz G. Crystallization and calcium/sulfur SAD phasing of the human EF-hand protein S100A2. Acta Crystallogr Sect F Struct Biol Cryst Commun 2010; 66:1032-6. [PMID: 20823519 DOI: 10.1107/s1744309110030691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/01/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Human S100A2 is an EF-hand protein and acts as a major tumour suppressor, binding and activating p53 in a Ca2+-dependent manner. Ca2+-bound S100A2 was crystallized and its structure was determined based on the anomalous scattering provided by six S atoms from methionine residues and four calcium ions present in the asymmetric unit. Although the diffraction data were recorded at a wavelength of 0.90 A, which is usually not assumed to be suitable for calcium/sulfur SAD, the anomalous signal was satisfactory. A nine-atom substructure was determined at 1.8 A resolution using SHELXD, and SHELXE was used for density modification and phase extension to 1.3 A resolution. The electron-density map obtained was well interpretable and could be used for automated model building by ARP/wARP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Koch
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Postfach M665, Universitätsstrasse 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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37
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Banerjee D, Gakhar G, Madgwick D, Hurt A, Takemoto D, Nguyen TA. A novel role of gap junction connexin46 protein to protect breast tumors from hypoxia. Int J Cancer 2010; 127:839-48. [PMID: 20013805 PMCID: PMC3150590 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.25107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Connexin proteins are the principle structural components of the gap junctions. Colocalization and tissue-specific expression of diverse connexin molecules are reported to occur in a variety of organs. Impairment of gap junctional intercellular communication, caused by mutations, gain of function or loss of function of connexins, is involved in a number of diseases including the development of cancer. Here we show that human breast cancer cells, MCF-7 and breast tumor tissues express a novel gap junction protein, connexin46 (Cx46) and it plays a critical role in hypoxia. Previous studies have shown that connexin46 is predominantly expressed in lens and our studies find that Cx46 protects human lens epithelial cells from hypoxia induced death. Interestingly, we find that Cx46 is upregulated in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and human breast cancer tumors. Downregulation of Cx46 by siRNA promotes 40% MCF-7 cell death at 24 hr under hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, direct injection of anti-Cx46 siRNA into xenograft tumors prevents tumor growth in nude mice. This finding will provide an exciting new direction for drug development for breast cancer treatment and suggests that both normal hypoxic tissue (lens) and adaptive hypoxic tissue (breast tumor) utilize the same protein, Cx46, as a protective strategy from hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debarshi Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Gunjan Gakhar
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/ Pathobiology, Mosier Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Dan Madgwick
- Department of Biochemistry, Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Amy Hurt
- Department of Biochemistry, Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Dolores Takemoto
- Department of Biochemistry, Chalmers Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Thu Annelise Nguyen
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/ Pathobiology, Mosier Hall, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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38
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Wolf S, Haase-Kohn C, Pietzsch J. S100A2 in cancerogenesis: a friend or a foe? Amino Acids 2010; 41:849-61. [PMID: 20521072 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-010-0623-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 05/05/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Owing to the exceptional intracellular distribution and the heterogeneous expression pattern during transformation and metastasis in various tumors, the EF-hand calcium-binding protein S100A2 attracts increasing attention. Unlike the majority of S100 proteins, S100A2 expression is downregulated in many cancers and the loss in nuclear expression has been associated with poor prognosis. On the other hand, S100A2 is upregulated in some cancers. This mini review highlights the general characteristics of S100A2 and discusses recent findings on its putative functional implication as a suppressor or promoter in cancerogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susann Wolf
- Department of Radiopharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Radiopharmacy, Research Center Dresden-Rossendorf, POB 51 01 19, 01314, Dresden, Germany
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Abstract
The idea that the gap junction family of proteins, connexins, are tumour suppressors has been widely supported through numerous cancer models. However, the paradigm that connexins and enhanced gap junctional intercellular communication is of universal benefit by restricting tumour growth has been challenged by more recent evidence that suggests a role for connexins in facilitating tumour progression and metastasis. Therefore, connexins might be better classified as conditional tumour suppressors that modulate cell proliferation, as well as adhesion and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian C Naus
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T-1Z3, Canada.
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Neoh CY, Chen H, Ng SK, Lane EB, Common JEA. A rare connexin 26 mutation in a patient with a forme fruste of keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome. Int J Dermatol 2009; 48:1078-81. [PMID: 19785089 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2009.04136.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome is a rare ectodermal dysplasia characterized by generalized erythrokeratotic plaques, sensorineural hearing loss, and vascularizing keratitis. Cutaneous changes and hearing loss typically present in early childhood, whereas ocular symptoms present later. Mutations in the connexin (Cx) 26 gene, GJB2, are now established to underlie many of the affected cases, with the majority of patients harboring the p.D50N mutation. METHODS A rare patient demonstrating features of incomplete KID syndrome associated with an uncommon Cx26 gene mutation is described. RESULTS The patient presented late in adolescence with partial features of KID syndrome. There was limited cutaneous involvement and the rare association of cystic acne. Both hearing impairment and ophthalmic involvement were mild in severity. Genetic mutation analysis revealed a previously described, rare mutation in GJB2, resulting in a glycine to arginine change at codon 12 (p.G12R). CONCLUSIONS This report describes a patient exhibiting characteristics suggestive of a late-onset, incomplete form of KID syndrome with the GJB2 mutation (p.G12R). The p.G12R mutation has only been described in one other patient with KID syndrome, whose clinical presentation was not characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching Yin Neoh
- National Skin Center, Institute of Medical Biology, 1 Mandalay Road, Singapore.
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Kugawa F, Aoki M. Expression of the Polyubiquitin Gene Early in the Buprenorphine Hydrochloride-induced Apoptosis of NG108-15 Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 15:237-45. [PMID: 15620210 DOI: 10.1080/10425170400006372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To clone genes expressed early in the buprenorphine hydrochloride (Bph)-induced apoptosis of NG108-15 nerve cells, we adopted a previously reported rapid and simple differential display (DD) cloning procedure. Complementary DNA was generated from differentially expressed mRNAs by reverse transcription (RT) using a fully degenerate 6-mer oligonucleotide as the primer. PCR amplification was then conducted using a combination of three arbitrary but defined 10-bp nucleotide primers. The differentially generated DNA fragments were detected by agarose gel electrophoresis, and 9 were excised from the gel and subcloned into a sequencing vector. Three DNAs that were specifically expressed upon Bph-induced apoptosis of NG108-15 cells were sequenced. Their specific expression was then confirmed by reverse-transcription PCR. One was identified as the mouse polyubiquitin gene c, and the others remain unidentified. Northern and western blots indicated the transcription and translation of polyubiquitin early in Bph-induced apoptosis. The polyubiquitination of apoptotic cellular proteins was also confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Kugawa
- Department of Biological Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nihon University, 7-7-1 Narashino-dai, Funabashi, Chiba 274-8555, Japan.
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Basavaraj K, Darshan M, Shanmugavelu P, Rashmi R, Mhatre AY, Dhanabal S, Rao K. Study on the levels of trace elements in mild and severe psoriasis. Clin Chim Acta 2009; 405:66-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2009.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2008] [Revised: 04/04/2009] [Accepted: 04/06/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Chen G, Chan FL, Zhang X, Chan PSF. Identification of differently expressed genes in chemical carcinogen-induced rat bladder cancers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 29:220-6. [PMID: 19399409 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-009-0217-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Possible altered gene expression patterns in bladder tumour carcinogenesis in rat bladder cancers induced by BBN [N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine] was examined by cDNA microarray analysis of gene expression profiles. Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were given drinking water containing 0.05% BBN ad libitum for 24 to 28 weeks. Equal numbers of control rats were given tap water without BBN. After treatment, the rat bladders were excised for RNA extraction and histopathological examinations. Total RNAs were extracted from rat transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) tissues and micro-dissected normal rat bladder epithelia. The atlas glass rat microarray was used, which included oligonucleotides of 1081 rat genes. Some of the up-regulated genes in rat bladder TCCs were further confirmed by Northern blotting. Our results showed that the transcriptions of 30 genes were significantly elevated in the rat bladder TCCs, and these included fly proto-oncogene, Lipocortin 2, COX IV, COX V a, and cathepsin D. Also, 15 genes were significantly down-regulated in the rat bladder TCCs and they included B7.1, TNFr1, APOA1 and VHL. The results of cDNA microarray analysis demonstrated that normal rat bladder epithelia and bladder TCC exhibited different and specific gene statement profiles. The increased expressions of the identified genes may play an important role in the chemically induced bladder carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangfu Chen
- Department of Urology, the General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China.
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Botelho HM, Koch M, Fritz G, Gomes CM. Metal ions modulate the folding and stability of the tumor suppressor protein S100A2. FEBS J 2009; 276:1776-86. [PMID: 19267779 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2009.06912.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The EF-hand protein S100A2 is a cell cycle regulator involved in tumorigenesis, acting through regulation of the p53 activation state. Metal ion-free S100A2 is homodimeric and contains two Ca(2+)-binding sites and two Zn(2+)-binding sites per subunit, whereby the Zn(2+) ion binding to one of the sites is coordinated by residues from two homodimers. The effect of selective binding of these metal ions was investigated using site-specific mutants which lacked one or both zinc sites. CD analysis of secondary structure changes on metallation showed that Zn(2+) binding was associated with a decrease in the secondary structure content, whereas Ca(2+) had the opposite effect in two of the three S100A2 mutants studied. The energy of unfolding (DeltaG(U)) of the apo wild-type S100A2 was determined to be 89.9 kJ mol(-1), and the apparent midpoint transition temperature (T(m)(app))) was 58.4 degrees C. In addition, a detailed study of the urea and thermal unfolding of the S100A2 mutants in different metallation states (apo, Zn(2+) and Ca(2+)) was performed. Thermal denaturation experiments showed that Zn(2+) acts as a destabilizer and Ca(2+) as a stabilizer of the protein conformation. This suggests a synergistic effect between metal binding, protein stability and S100A2 biological activity, according to which Ca(2+) activates and stabilizes the protein, the opposite being observed on Zn(2+) binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo M Botelho
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal
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Dbouk HA, Mroue RM, El-Sabban ME, Talhouk RS. Connexins: a myriad of functions extending beyond assembly of gap junction channels. Cell Commun Signal 2009; 7:4. [PMID: 19284610 PMCID: PMC2660342 DOI: 10.1186/1478-811x-7-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins constitute a large family of trans-membrane proteins that allow intercellular communication and the transfer of ions and small signaling molecules between cells. Recent studies have revealed complex translational and post-translational mechanisms that regulate connexin synthesis, maturation, membrane transport and degradation that in turn modulate gap junction intercellular communication. With the growing myriad of connexin interacting proteins, including cytoskeletal elements, junctional proteins, and enzymes, gap junctions are now perceived, not only as channels between neighboring cells, but as signaling complexes that regulate cell function and transformation. Connexins have also been shown to form functional hemichannels and have roles altogether independent of channel functions, where they exert their effects on proliferation and other aspects of life and death of the cell through mostly-undefined mechanisms. This review provides an updated overview of current knowledge of connexins and their interacting proteins, and it describes connexin modulation in disease and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashem A Dbouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Van Deusen MB, Lyon MJ. Connexins within the rat larynx. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2009; 139:823-8. [PMID: 19041510 DOI: 10.1016/j.otohns.2008.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2008] [Revised: 06/18/2008] [Accepted: 08/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS To determine the types and localization of connexins within the rat larynx. STUDY DESIGN Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) of the epiglottis and laryngeal mucosa was used to identify connexins (Cx). Immunohistochemical labeling was then used to localize the Cxs within the larynx. METHODS Twelve larynges from 3 to 4 month old Fisher-344 rats were used. RNA was extracted (N = 8) and cDNA produced. Primers for Cx26, Cx30, Cx32, Cx37, Cx40, and Cx43 were added and qRT-PCR performed. Others larynges were serially sectioned for immunohistochemistry. RESULTS qRT-PCR revealed Cx43, Cx32, and Cx30 within the epiglottis and Cx43 in the vocal folds and Cx43 and Cx32 within the subglottic mucosa. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed these results. CONCLUSION The rat epiglottis is rich in Cx43, Cx32, and Cx30 whereas the vocal folds contain Cx43 and the subglottic mucosa Cx43 and Cx32. Their localizations suggest involvement in secretion for protective purposes and they may play a key role in laryngeal pathoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B Van Deusen
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
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Helfman DM, Flynn P, Khan P, Saeed A. Tropomyosin as a regulator of cancer cell transformation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 644:124-31. [PMID: 19209818 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-85766-4_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Tropomyosins (Tms) are among the most studied structural proteins of the actin cytoskeleton that are implicated in neoplastic-specific alterations in actin filament organization. Decreased expression of specific nonmuscle Tm isoforms is commonly associated with the transformed phenotype. These changes in Tm expression appear to contribute to the rearrangement of microfilament bundles and morphological alterations, increased cell motility and oncogenic signaling properties of transformed cells. Below we review aspects of Tm biology as it specifically relates to transformation and cancer including its expression in culture models of transformed cells and human tumors, mechanisms that regulate Tm expression and the role of Tm in oncogenic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Helfman
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Papanicolaou Building, Room 317, 1550 NW 10th Avenue (M-877), Miami, Florida 33136, USA.
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Leclerc E, Fritz G, Vetter SW, Heizmann CW. Binding of S100 proteins to RAGE: an update. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2008; 1793:993-1007. [PMID: 19121341 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2008.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2008] [Revised: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 11/28/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Receptor for Advanced Glycation Endproducts (RAGE) is a multi-ligand receptor of the immunoglobulin family. RAGE interacts with structurally different ligands probably through the oligomerization of the receptor on the cell surface. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. Among RAGE ligands are members of the S100 protein family. S100 proteins are small calcium binding proteins with high structural homology. Several members of the family have been shown to interact with RAGE in vitro or in cell-based assays. Interestingly, many RAGE ligands appear to interact with distinct domains of the extracellular portion of RAGE and to trigger various cellular effects. In this review, we summarize the modes of S100 protein-RAGE interaction with regard to their cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Leclerc
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, Fl 33431, USA
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Tacheau C, Fontaine J, Loy J, Mauviel A, Verrecchia F. TGF-β induces connexin43 gene expression in normal murine mammary gland epithelial cells via activation of p38 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. J Cell Physiol 2008; 217:759-68. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Rosen MB, Francis BM, Chernoff N. Subtractive Hybridization: A Technique for the Isolation of Differentially Expressed Genes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.3109/15376519409061541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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