Transforming growth factor-beta-induced cell growth inhibition in human breast cancer cells is mediated through insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 action

Fluoroquinolones upregulate insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, inhibit cell growth and insulin-like growth factor signaling

Fluoroquinolones (FQs), commonly known for their antibiotic properties, exhibit additional pharmacological potential with anti-proliferative effects on various malignant cell types and immunomodulatory responses. Despite these observed effects, the precise mechanisms of action remain elusive. This study elucidates the biological impact of FQs on insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) productions in a p53-dependent manner. Cultured cells and mouse models treated with FQs demonstrated increased IGFBP-3 mRNA expression and protein secretion. The FQ-induced IGFBP-3 was identified to impede cell growth by inhibiting IGF-I signaling and exerting effects through an IGF-independent pathway. Notably, FQ-mediated suppression of cell proliferation was reversed in p53-null and p53 knockdown cells, suggesting the pivotal role of p53 in FQ-induced IGFBP-3 production and IGFBP-3-mediated growth inhibition. Additionally, ciprofloxacin, a clinically used FQ, exhibited the induction of tumor cell apoptosis and attenuation of tumor growth in a syngeneic mouse hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) model. These findings unveil a novel mechanism through which FQs act as anti-proliferative agents, prompting further exploration of their potential utility or derivative compounds in cancer treatment and prevention.

Association analysis for SNPs of MSTN and IGFBP-3 genes with body size and other production traits in Liaoning Cashmere Goats

Liaoning cashmere goat (LCG) have tall bones, high cashmere production and outstanding meat production performance. In recent years, good breeding progress has not been made in terms of body size, meat yield, milk yield and other properties in terms of production. The study focused on the correlation between the SNPs of MSTN and IGFBP-3 genes with the body size performance, cashmere production and milk performance. The MSTN and IGFBP-3 gene sequence alignment and PCR-Seq polymorphism were used to detect the potential SNPs, and the correlation with production performance was analyzed by SPSS and SHEsis software. The results showed that the TT genotype at the T1662G locus of the MSTN gene is dominant and has significant advantages in body measurements such as sacrum height, chest width, and waist height. The C allele at the C4021T locus of IGFBP-3 gene shows an advantage in the body measurement performance. Among the haplotype combinations, H2H2:TGTC is preponderant combination for body size performance, H2H2:TGTC and H1H2:TGCC are preponderant combinations for cashmere production performance, H1H3:GGCC is preponderant combination for milk production performance. It may be a molecular marker for future selection and breeding.

Effects of IGFBP3 knockdown on human endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells stress-induced senescence

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) is known for its pleiotropic ability to regulate various cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation etc. It has recently been shown that IGFBP3 is part of the secretome of senescent human endometrial mesenchymal stromal cells (MESCs) (Griukova et al., 2019) that takes part in paracrine propagation of senescence-like phenotype in MESCs (Vassilieva et al., 2020); however, mechanisms of pro-senescent IGFBP3 action in MESCs remain still unexplored. This study is aimed at elucidating the role of IGFBP3 upregulation in senescent MESCs. IGFBP3 knockdown in MESCs committed to H₂O₂-induced senescence led to partial abrogation of p21/Rb axis, to elevated ERK phosphorylation and to increase in SA-β-gal activity. Additionally, MESCs derived from various donors were found to demonstrate different IGFBP3 regulation during stress-induced senescence. Obtained results suggest ambiguous role of IGFBP3 in stress-induced senescence of MESCs.

IGFBP-3/IGFBP-3 Receptor System as an Anti-Tumor and Anti-Metastatic Signaling in Cancer

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is a p53 tumor suppressor-regulated protein and a major carrier for IGFs in circulation. Among six high-affinity IGFBPs, which are IGFBP-1 through 6, IGFBP-3 is the most extensively investigated IGFBP species with respect to its IGF/IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR)-independent biological actions beyond its endocrine/paracrine/autocrine role in modulating IGF action in cancer. Disruption of IGFBP-3 at transcriptional and post-translational levels has been implicated in the pathophysiology of many different types of cancer including breast, prostate, and lung cancer. Over the past two decades, a wealth of evidence has revealed both tumor suppressing and tumor promoting effects of IGF/IGF-IR-independent actions of IGFBP-3 depending upon cell types, post-translational modifications, and assay methods. However, IGFBP-3′s anti-tumor function has been well accepted due to identification of functional IGFBP-3-interacting proteins, putative receptors, or crosstalk with other signaling cascades. This review mainly focuses on transmembrane protein 219 (TMEM219), which represents a novel IGFBP-3 receptor mediating antitumor effect of IGFBP-3. Furthermore, this review delineates the potential underlying mechanisms involved and the subsequent biological significance, emphasizing the clinical significance of the IGFBP-3/TMEM219 axis in assessing both the diagnosis and the prognosis of cancer as well as the therapeutic potential of TMEM219 agonists for cancer treatment.

Circulating Levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 Associate With Risk of Colorectal Cancer Based on Serologic and Mendelian Randomization Analyses

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Human studies examining associations between circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) and colorectal cancer risk have reported inconsistent results. We conducted complementary serologic and Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to determine whether alterations in circulating levels of IGF1 or IGFBP3 are associated with colorectal cancer development.

METHODS

Serum levels of IGF1 were measured in blood samples collected from 397,380 participants from the UK Biobank, from 2006 through 2010. Incident cancer cases and cancer cases recorded first in death certificates were identified through linkage to national cancer and death registries. Complete follow-up was available through March 31, 2016. For the MR analyses, we identified genetic variants associated with circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3. The association of these genetic variants with colorectal cancer was examined with 2-sample MR methods using genome-wide association study consortia data (52,865 cases with colorectal cancer and 46,287 individuals without [controls]) RESULTS: After a median follow-up period of 7.1 years, 2665 cases of colorectal cancer were recorded. In a multivariable-adjusted model, circulating level of IGF1 associated with colorectal cancer risk (hazard ratio per 1 standard deviation increment of IGF1, 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.17). Similar associations were found by sex, follow-up time, and tumor subsite. In the MR analyses, a 1 standard deviation increment in IGF1 level, predicted based on genetic factors, was associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer risk (odds ratio 1.08; 95% CI 1.03-1.12; P = 3.3 × 10-4). Level of IGFBP3, predicted based on genetic factors, was associated with colorectal cancer risk (odds ratio per 1 standard deviation increment, 1.12; 95% CI 1.06-1.18; P = 4.2 × 10-5). Colorectal cancer risk was associated with only 1 variant in the IGFBP3 gene region (rs11977526), which also associated with anthropometric traits and circulating level of IGF2.

CONCLUSIONS

In an analysis of blood samples from almost 400,000 participants in the UK Biobank, we found an association between circulating level of IGF1 and colorectal cancer. Using genetic data from 52,865 cases with colorectal cancer and 46,287 controls, a higher level of IGF1, determined by genetic factors, was associated with colorectal cancer. Further studies are needed to determine how this signaling pathway might contribute to colorectal carcinogenesis.

Regulation of proliferation and invasion by the IGF signalling pathway in Epstein-Barr virus-positive gastric cancer

Several carcinomas including gastric cancer have been reported to contain Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is classified as one of four molecular subtypes of gastric cancer by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) group with increased immune-related signatures. Identification of EBV-dependent pathways with significant biological roles is needed for EBVaGC. To compare the biological changes between AGS gastric epithelial cells and EBV-infected AGS (AGS-EBV) cells, proliferation assay, CCK-8 assay, invasion assay, cell cycle analysis, RT-PCR, Western blot and ELISA were performed. BI836845, a humanized insulin-like growth factor (IGF) ligand-neutralizing antibody, was used for IGF-related signalling pathway inhibition. AGS-EBV cells showed slower proliferating rate and higher sensitivity to BI836845 compared to AGS cells. Moreover, invasiveness of AGS-EBV was increased than that of AGS, and BI836845 treatment significantly decreased the invasiveness of AGS-EBV. Although no apoptosis was detected, entry into the S phase of the cell cycle was delayed in BI836845-treated AGS-EBV cells. In conclusion, AGS-EBV cells seem to modulate their proliferation and invasion through the IGF signalling pathway. Inhibition of the IGF signalling pathway therefore could be a potential therapeutic strategy for EBVaGC.

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer: a role for insulin-like growth factor I and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3?

Evidence indicates that for most human cancers the problem is not that gene mutations occur but is more dependent upon how the body deals with damaged cells. It has been estimated that only about 1% of human cancers can be accounted for by unmistakable hereditary cancer syndromes, only up to 5% can be accounted for due to high-penetrance, single-gene mutations, and in total only 5%-15% of all cancers may have a major genetic component. The predominant contribution to the causation of most sporadic cancers is considered to be environmental factors contributing between 58% and 82% toward different cancers. A nutritionally poor lifestyle is associated with increased risk of many cancers, including those of the breast. As nutrition, energy balance, macronutrient composition of the diet, and physical activity levels are major determinants of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) bioactivity, it has been proposed that, at least in part, these increases in cancer risk and progression may be mediated by alterations in the IGF axis, related to nutritional lifestyle. Localized breast cancer is a manageable disease, and death from breast cancer predominantly occurs due to the development of metastatic disease as treatment becomes more complicated with poorer outcomes. In recent years, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition has emerged as an important contributor to breast cancer progression and malignant transformation resulting in tumor cells with increased potential for migration and invasion. Furthermore, accumulating evidence suggests a strong link between components of the IGF pathway, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and breast cancer mortality. Here, we highlight some recent studies highlighting the relationship between IGFs, IGF-binding protein 3, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.

IGFBP-3: a cell fate pivot in cancer and disease

One of the hallmarks in the advancement of cancer cells is an ability to overcome and acquire resistance to adverse conditions. There has been a large amount of cancer research on IGFBP-3 as a pro-apoptotic molecule in vitro. These pro-apoptotic properties, however, do not correlate with several studies linking high IGFBP-3 levels in breast cancer tissue to rapid growth and poor prognosis. Evidence is emerging that IGFBP-3 also exhibits pro-survival and growth-promoting properties in vitro. How IGFBP-3 pivots cell fate to either death or survival, it seems, comes down to a complex interplay between cells' microenvironments and the presence of cellular IGFBP-3 binding partners and growth factor receptors. The cytoprotective actions of IGFBP-3 are not restricted to cancer but are also observed in other disease states, such as retinopathy and brain ischaemia. Here we review the literature on this paradoxical nature of IGFBP-3, its pro-apoptotic and growth-inhibitory actions versus its cytoprotective and growth-potentiating properties, and discuss the implications of targeting IGFBP-3 for treatment of disease.

Two-layer modular analysis of gene and protein networks in breast cancer

Background

Genomic, proteomic and high-throughput gene expression data, when integrated, can be used to map the interaction networks between genes and proteins. Different approaches have been used to analyze these networks, especially in cancer, where mutations in biologically related genes that encode mutually interacting proteins are believed to be involved. This system of integrated networks as a whole exhibits emergent biological properties that are not obvious at the individual network level. We analyze the system in terms of modules, namely a set of densely interconnected nodes that can be further divided into submodules that are expected to participate in multiple biological activities in coordinated manner.

Results

In the present work we construct two layers of the breast cancer network: the gene layer, where the correlation network of breast cancer genes is analyzed to identify gene modules, and the protein layer, where each gene module is extended to map out the network of expressed proteins and their interactions in order to identify submodules. Each module and its associated submodules are analyzed to test the robustness of their topological distribution. The constituent biological phenomena are explored through the use of the Gene Ontology. We thus construct a “network of networks”, and demonstrate that both the gene and protein interaction networks are modular in nature. By focusing on the ontological classification, we are able to determine the entire GO profiles that are distributed at different levels of hierarchy. Within each submodule most of the proteins are biologically correlated, and participate in groups of distinct biological activities.

Conclusions

The present approach is an effective method for discovering coherent gene modules and protein submodules. We show that this also provides a means of determining biological pathways (both novel and as well those that have been reported previously) that are related, in the present instance, to breast cancer. Similar strategies are likely to be useful in the analysis of other diseases as well.

Targeting insulin-like growth factor-I and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 signaling pathways. A novel therapeutic approach for asthma

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I has been recognized to play critical roles in the pathogenesis of asthma, whereas IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-3 blocks crucial physiologic manifestations of asthma. IGF-I enhances subepithelial fibrosis, airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway smooth muscle hyperplasia by interacting with various inflammatory mediators and complex signaling pathways, such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and the hypoxia-inducible factor/vascular endothelial growth factor axis. On the other hand, IGFBP-3 decreases airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness through IGFBP-3 receptor-mediated activation of caspases, which subsequently inhibits NF-κB signaling pathway. It also inhibits the IGF-I/hypoxia-inducible factor/vascular endothelial growth factor axis via IGF-I-dependent and/or IGF-I-independent mechanisms. This Translational Review summarizes the role of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 in the context of allergic airway disease, and discusses the therapeutic potential of various strategies targeting the IGF-I and IGFBP-3 signaling pathways for the management of asthma.

IGF2 and cancer

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a 7.5  kDa mitogenic peptide hormone expressed by liver and many other tissues. It is three times more abundant in serum than IGF1, but our understanding of its physiological and pathological roles has lagged behind that of IGF1. Expression of the IGF2 gene is strictly regulated. Over-expression occurs in many cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis. Elevated serum IGF2 is also associated with increased risk of developing various cancers including colorectal, breast, prostate and lung. There is established clinical utility for IGF2 measurement in the diagnosis of non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia, a condition characterised by a molar IGF2:IGF1 ratio >10. Recent advances in understanding of the pathophysiology of IGF2 in cancer have suggested much novel clinical utility for its measurement. Measurement of IGF2 in blood and genetic and epigenetic tests of the IGF2 gene may help assess cancer risk and prognosis. Further studies will determine whether these tests enter clinical practice. New therapeutic approaches are being developed to target IGF2 action. This review provides a clinical perspective on IGF2 and an update on recent research findings.

Inhibition of human MCF-7 breast cancer cells and HT-29 colon cancer cells by rice-produced recombinant human insulin-like growth binding protein-3 (rhIGFBP-3)

Background

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is a multifunctional molecule which is closely related to cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metabolism and senescence. It combines with insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) to form a complex (IGF-I/IGFBP-3) that can treat growth hormone insensitivity syndrome (GHIS) and reduce insulin requirement in patients with diabetes. IGFBP-3 alone has been shown to have anti-proliferation effect on numerous cancer cells.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We reported here an expression method to produce functional recombinant human IGFBP-3 (rhIGFBP-3) in transgenic rice grains. Protein sorting sequences, signal peptide and endoplasmic reticulum retention tetrapeptide (KDEL) were included in constructs for enhancing rhIGFBP-3 expression. Western blot analysis showed that only the constructs with signal peptide were successfully expressed in transgenic rice grains. Both rhIGFBP-3 proteins, with or without KDEL sorting sequence inhibited the growth of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells (65.76 ± 1.72% vs 45.00 ± 0.86%, p < 0.05; 50.84 ± 1.97% vs 45.00 ± 0.86%, p < 0.01 respectively) and HT-29 colon cancer cells (65.14 ±3.84% vs 18.01 ± 13.81%, p < 0.05 and 54.7 ± 9.44% vs 18.01 ± 13.81%, p < 0.05 respectively) when compared with wild type rice.

Conclusion/Significance

These findings demonstrated the feasibility of producing biological active rhIGFBP-3 in rice using a transgenic approach, which will definitely encourage more research on the therapeutic use of hIGFBP-3 in future.

TGF-β-induced expression of IGFBP-3 regulates IGF1R signaling in human osteosarcoma cells

Signaling pathways initiated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are important in osteosarcoma cell growth. We have investigated a role for endogenous IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in mediating cross-talk between TGF-β receptor and type I IGF receptor (IGF1R) signaling pathways in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells. TGF-β1 indirectly activated the Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway and induced the expression of IGFBP-3, an important regulator of IGF1R activity. IGFBP-3 attenuated TGF-β1 activation of ERK1/2 and Akt in MG-63 cells, and inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell cycle progression and proliferation. This effect of IGFBP-3 was blocked by inhibiting IGF1R signaling. TGF-β1 phosphorylated Smad2 on the non-receptor substrate sites (Ser245/250/255). Blocking the TGF-β1-induced expression of IGFBP-3 enhanced pSmad2(Ser245/250/255) and increased its nuclear accumulation. These results suggest an important role for TGF-β1 in osteosarcoma cell growth, with the induction of IGFBP-3 by TGF-β1 serving in a negative-feedback loop to control cell growth by preventing activation of the IGF1R.

Signal Transduction Pathways Mediated by Secreted and Non-secreted Forms of intact Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 (IGFBP-3) and its 1-97 N-terminal Fragment in PC-3 Human Prostate Cancer Cells

Our previous results indicated that both the secreted and the intracellular form of full length and 1-97 N-terminal fragment of IGFBP-3 induces apoptosis in PC-3 human prostate cancer cells in an IGF-dependent and independent manner. This study was undertaken to delineate possible down-stream signaling pathways that are involved in this process. Intact IGFBP-3 and its N-terminal 1-97 fragments with or without a signal pro-peptide was fused to YFP and expressed in PC-3 human prostate cancer cells. In some cases, the putative IGF-binding site present in full length IGFBP-3 and its N-terminal fragment was also mutated. Extent of apoptosis was quantified using FACS. Up-regulation of total Stat-1 and activation of phospho-Stat-1 was shown by western blot. TGF-β signal was measured by luciferase reporter assay. Results from inhibitor studies indicated that both the Caspase 8 and caspase 9 pathways are involved in IGFBP-3 (non-secreted form) induced apoptosis in PC-3 cells. Exogenous addition of IGFBP-3 to PC-3 cells increased Stat-1 protein expression/tyrosine phosphorylation. Interestingly, results also showed that knockdown of Stat-1 by siRNA potentiated the IGFBP-3 induced apoptosis in PC-3 cells. In addition, both full-length IGFBP-3 and its 1-97 N-terminal fragments inhibited TGFβ signaling in these cells. This is the first report that compares the signal transduction pathways involved in apoptotic pathways mediated by IGFBP-3 in PC-3 human prostate cancer cells. Non-secreted form of full length IGFBP-3 and its N-terminal fragments induced apoptosis in PC-3 cells via activation of caspase 8 and caspase 9. We noted that both secreted and non-secreted forms of IGFBP-3 are involved in modulating Stat-1 and TGF-β pathways to induce apoptotic actions in PC-3 cells. Surprisingly, only non-secreted form of IGFBP-3 and its N-terminal fragments are involved in the induction of apoptosis in PC-3 cells via caspase 8 and caspase 9 activation. These studies clearly demonstrate that secreted and non-secreted FL and its 1-97 N-terminal fragments induce apoptosis in PC-3 cells by regulating different mechanistic pathways.

Insulin-like factor binding protein-3 promotes the G1 cell cycle arrest in several cancer cell lines

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is a multi-functional protein known to induce apoptosis of various cancer cells in an insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-dependent and IGF-independent manner. In our previous study, we found that IGFBP-3 induced apoptosis through the activation of caspases in 786-O cells. In this study, we further examined that whether IGFBP-3 induced apoptosis through the induction of cell cycle arrest in 786-O, A549 and MCF-7 cells. Our results showed that overexpressed IGFBP-3 resulted in typical apoptotic ultrastructures in A549 cells under transmission electron microscope. The result of flow cytometry analysis indicated that IGFBP-3 arrested the cell cycle at G1-S phase in 786-O, A549 and MCF-7 cells. In A549 cells, quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis showed a significant change in the expression of cell cycle-regulated proteins-a decrease in cyclin E1 expression, an increase in p21 expression. These results indicate a possible mechanism for G1 cell cycle arrest by IGFBP-3. Taken together, cyclin E1 and p21 may play important roles in the IGFBP-3-inducing G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in several human cancer cells.

Syndecan-2 is a novel target of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 and is over-expressed in fibrosis

Extracellular matrix deposition and tissue scarring characterize the process of fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) and Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in various tissues by inducing mesenchymal cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition. We identified Syndecan-2 (SDC2) as a gene induced by TGFβ in an IGFBP-3-dependent manner. TGFβ induction of SDC2 mRNA and protein required IGFBP-3. IGFBP-3 independently induced production of SDC2 in primary fibroblasts. Using an ex-vivo model of human skin in organ culture expressing IGFBP-3, we demonstrate that IGFBP-3 induces SDC2 ex vivo in human tissue. We also identified Mitogen-activated protein kinase-interacting kinase (Mknk2) as a gene induced by IGFBP-3. IGFBP-3 triggered Mknk2 phosphorylation resulting in its activation. Mknk2 independently induced SDC2 in human skin. Since IGFBP-3 is over-expressed in fibrotic tissues, we examined SDC2 levels in skin and lung tissues of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and lung tissues of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). SDC2 levels were increased in fibrotic dermal and lung tissues of patients with SSc and in lung tissues of patients with IPF. This is the first report describing elevated levels of SDC2 in fibrosis. Increased SDC2 expression is due, at least in part, to the activity of two pro-fibrotic factors, TGFβ and IGFBP-3.

IGFBP-3 sensitizes antiestrogen-resistant breast cancer cells through interaction with GRP78

IGFBP-3 is known to possess intrinsic biological activities such as anti-tumor property in addition to its IGF/IGF-R axis-dependent actions in a variety of human cancers including breast cancer. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the intrinsic biological actions of IGFBP-3 on breast cancer cells, we performed yeast two-hybrid screening and found GRP78, known to cause drug-resistance, as a binding partner of IGFBP-3. Overexpression of IGFBP-3 in antiestrogen-resistant LCC9 cells showed that IGFBP-3 interacted with GRP78, resulting in disruption of the GRP78-caspase-7 complex, thereby activating caspase-7, and further inducing apoptosis. Combination of overexpression of IGFBP-3 and application of siRNAs against GRP78 led to decrease in cell viability upon ICI 182,780 treatment. These data suggest that IGFBP-3 could sensitize antiestrogen-resistant breast cancer cells to ICI 182,780 by preventing the anti-apoptotic function of GRP78.

Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins-3 and -5: central mediators of fibrosis and promising new therapeutic targets

Fibrosis involves an orchestrated cascade of events including activation of fibroblasts, increased production and deposition of extracellular matrix components, and differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Epithelial-mesenchymal cross-talk plays an important role in this process, and current hypotheses of organ fibrosis liken it to an aberrant wound healing response in which epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cellular senescence may also contribute to disease pathogenesis. The fibrotic response is associated with altered expression of growth factors and cytokines, including increased levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and the more recent observation that increased levels of several insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) are associated with a number of fibrotic conditions. IGFBPs have been implicated in virtually every cell type and process associated with the fibrotic response, making the IGFBPs attractive targets for the development of novel anti-fibrotic therapies. In this review, the current state of knowledge regarding the classical IGFBP family in organ fibrosis will be summarized and the clinical implications considered.

Transforming growth factor-α mRNA expression and its possible roles in mouse endometrial stromal cells

Transforming growth factor-α (TGFα) is thought to be involved in the regulation of endometrial cells. We investigated Tgfa mRNA expression, and the effects of TGFα on DNA-synthesis and gene expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) and IGF1 receptor in the mouse endometrial cells, because IGF1 is involved in estrogen-induced growth of endometrial cells. We also investigated the role of TGFα on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, as MMPs are involved both in tissue remodeling during cell proliferation and in enhancement of IGF1 signaling through the degradation of IGFBP3. Tgfa mRNA expression was detected in endometrial luminal and glandular epithelial cells, and stromal cells. Tgfa mRNA signals did not appear to change in endometrial luminal epithelial cells, but signals in glandular epithelial cells were higher at diestrus 1, 2 and proestrus, and the number of stromal cells showing strong signals appeared to increase at diestrus 1 and 2. Endometrial epithelial and stromal cells were treated with estradiol-17β (E2) or progesterone (P4). E2 or P4 stimulated Tgfa mRNA expression in stromal cells. TGFα stimulated DNA synthesis in endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, while E2 and P4 stimulated DNA synthesis in stromal cells. In stromal cells, TGFα, at as low as 1 ng/ml, decreased Igfbp3 and Mmp9 mRNA levels, while high dose (10 ng/ml) of TGFα decreased Igf1 mRNA level and increased Mmp3 mRNA level. These results imply that TGFα stimulates proliferation of endometrial stromal cells through multiple mechanisms, including its regulation of Igfbp3 and Mmp3 transcription.

Localized expression of tenascin in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary fibrosis and its regulation by insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3

OBJECTIVE

To determine the role of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) in mediating the effects of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) on tenascin-C (TN-C) production and to assess the levels of TN-C in vivo in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated pulmonary fibrosis.

METHODS

Human primary lung fibroblasts were stimulated with TGFβ or IGFBP-3 in the presence or absence of specific small interfering RNAs and chemical inhibitors of the signaling cascade. TN-C levels in lung tissue specimens obtained from patients with SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis were assessed using immunohistochemical analysis and were compared with the levels in specimens obtained from normal donors. TN-C levels were quantified in sera from normal donors and patients with SSc with or without pulmonary fibrosis, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

IGFBP-3 mediated the induction of TN-C by TGFβ. Direct induction of TN-C by IGFBP-3 occurred in a p38 MAP kinase-dependent manner. TN-C levels were abundant in lung tissues from patients with SSc and were localized to subepithelial layers of the distal airways. No TN-C was detectable around the proximal airways. Patients with SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis had significantly higher levels of circulating TN-C compared with SSc patients without pulmonary fibrosis. Longitudinal samples obtained from patients with SSc before and after the onset of pulmonary fibrosis showed increased levels of TN-C after the onset of pulmonary fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

IGFBP-3, which is overexpressed in fibrotic lungs, induces production of TN-C by subepithelial fibroblasts. The increased lung tissue levels of TN-C parallel the levels detected in the sera of SSc patients with pulmonary fibrosis, suggesting that TN-C may be a useful biomarker for SSc-related pulmonary fibrosis.

Small is beautiful: insulin-like growth factors and their role in growth, development, and cancer

Insulin-like growth factors were discovered more than 50 years ago as mediators of growth hormone that effect growth and differentiation of bone and skeletal muscle. Interest of the role of insulin-like growth factors in cancer reached a peak in the 1990s, and then waned until the availability in the past 5 years of monoclonal antibodies and small molecules that block the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor. In this article, we review the history of insulin-like growth factors and their role in growth, development, organism survival, and in cancer, both epithelial cancers and sarcomas. Recent developments regarding phase I to II clinical trials of such agents are discussed, as well as potential studies to consider in the future, given the lack of efficacy of one such monoclonal antibody in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy in a first-line study in metastatic non-small-cell lung adenocarcinoma. Greater success with these agents clinically is expected when combining the agents with inhibitors of other cell signaling pathways in which cross-resistance has been observed.

Quercetin regulates insulin like growth factor signaling and induces intrinsic and extrinsic pathway mediated apoptosis in androgen independent prostate cancer cells (PC-3)

Progression of prostate cancer is facilitated by growth factors that activate critical signaling cascades thereby promote prostate cancer cell growth, survival, and migration. To investigate the effect of quercetin on insulin-like growth factor signaling and apoptosis in androgen independent prostate cancer cells (PC-3), IGF-IR, PI-3K, p-Akt, Akt, cyclin D1, Bad, cytochrome c, PARP, caspases-9 and 10 protein levels were assessed by western blot analysis. Mitochondrial membrane potency was detected by rhodamine-123 staining. Quercetin induced caspase-3 activity assay was performed for activation of apoptosis. Further, RT-PCR was also performed for Bad, IGF-I, II, IR, and IGFBP-3 mRNA expression. Quercetin significantly increases the proapoptotic mRNA levels of Bad, IGFBP-3 and protein levels of Bad, cytochrome C, cleaved caspase-9, caspase-10, cleaved PARP and caspase-3 activity in PC-3 cells. IGF-IRβ, PI3K, p-Akt, and cyclin D1 protein expression and mRNA levels of IGF-I, II and IGF-IR were decreased significantly. Further, treatment with PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) and quercetin showed decreased p-Akt levels. Apoptosis is confirmed by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in quercetin treated PC-3 cells. This study suggests that quercetin decreases the survival of androgen independent prostate cancer cells by modulating the expression of insulin-like growth factors (IGF) system components, signaling molecules and induces apoptosis, which could be very useful for the androgen independent prostate cancer treatment.

Cooperative activation of cyclin D1 and progesterone receptor gene expression by the SRC-3 coactivator and SMRT corepressor

Although the ability of coactivators to enhance the expression of estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) target genes is well established, the role of corepressors in regulating 17beta-estradiol (E2)-induced gene expression is poorly understood. Previous studies revealed that the silencing mediator of retinoic acid and thyroid hormone receptor (SMRT) corepressor is required for full ERalpha transcriptional activity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, and we report herein the E2-dependent recruitment of SMRT to the regulatory regions of the progesterone receptor (PR) and cyclin D1 genes. Individual depletion of SMRT or steroid receptor coactivator (SRC)-3 modestly decreased E2-induced PR and cyclin D1 expression; however, simultaneous depletion revealed a cooperative effect of this coactivator and corepressor on the expression of these genes. SMRT and SRC-3 bind directly in an ERalpha-independent manner, and this interaction promotes E2-dependent SRC-3 binding to ERalpha measured by co-IP and SRC-3 recruitment to the cyclin D1 gene as measured by chromatin IP assays. Moreover, SMRT stimulates the intrinsic transcriptional activity of all of the SRC family (p160) coactivators. Our data link the SMRT corepressor directly with SRC family coactivators in positive regulation of ERalpha-dependent gene expression and, taken with the positive correlation found for SMRT and SRC-3 in human breast tumors, suggest that SMRT can promote ERalpha- and SRC-3-dependent gene expression in breast cancer.

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 is required for the regulation of rat oval cell proliferation and differentiation in the 2AAF/PHX model

Oval cell-mediated liver regeneration is a highly complex process that involves the coordination of several signaling factors, chemokines and cytokines to allow for proper maintenance of the liver architecture. When hepatocyte proliferation is inhibited, an hepatic stem cell population, often referred to as “oval cells”, is activated to aid in liver regeneration. The function of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) during this process of oval cell activation is of particular interest because it is produced in liver and has been shown to induce migration and differentiation of other stem cell populations both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, IGFBP-3 production has been linked to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, a pathway known to be induced during oval cell proliferation. In this study, we set out to determine whether IGFBP-3 plays a role in oval cell proliferation, migration and differentiation during this specific type of regeneration. Through activation of the oval cell-mediated liver regeneration in a rat model, we found that IGFBP-3 is elevated in the liver and serum of animals during peak days of oval cell activation and proliferation. Furthermore, in vitro assays found that WB-344 cells, a liver stem cell line similar to oval cells, were induced to migrate in the presence of IGFBP-3. When expression of IGFBP-3 was knocked down during oval cell activation in vivo, we found that oval cell proliferation was increased and observed the appearance of numerous atypical ductular structures, which were OV-6 and Ki67-positive. Finally, quantitative realtime PCR analysis of liver tissue from IGFBP-3 small interfering RNA (siRNA) treated animals determined that expression of TGFβ family members, including TGF-βRII and Smads 2–4, were significantly downregulated compared to animals at day 9 post-PHx alone or animals that received negative control siRNA. In conclusion, IGFBP-3 may function as a potent chemoattractant of oval cells during specific types of liver regeneration and may be involved in regulating oval cell proliferation and differentiation in vivo via the TGF-β pathway.

Transforming Growth Factor-{beta}-Stimulated Clone-22 Is an Androgen-Regulated Gene That Enhances Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer following Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I Receptor Inhibition

PURPOSE: Inhibition of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling using the human IGF-I receptor monoclonal antibody A12 is most effective at inducing apoptosis in prostate cancer xenografts in the presence of androgen. We undertook this study to determine mechanisms for increased apoptosis by A12 in the presence of androgens. Experimental Methods: The castrate-resistant human xenograft LuCaP 35 V was implanted into intact or castrate severe combined immunodeficient mice and treated with A12 weekly. After 6 weeks of tumor growth, animals were sacrificed and tumors were removed and analyzed for cell cycle distribution/apoptosis and cDNA arrays were done. RESULTS: In castrate mice, the tumors were delayed in G(2) with no apoptosis; in contrast, tumors from intact mice underwent apoptosis with either G(1) or G(2) delay. Transforming growth factor-beta-stimulated clone-22 (TSC-22) was significantly elevated in tumors from the intact mice compared with castrate mice, especially in those tumors with the highest levels of apoptosis. To further determine the function of TSC-22, we transfected various human prostate cancer cell lines with a plasmid expressing TSC-22. Cell lines overexpressing TSC-22 showed an increase in apoptosis and a delay in G(1). When these cell lines were placed subcutaneously in athymic nude mice, a decreased number of animals formed tumors and the rate of tumor growth was decreased compared with control tumors. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate that IGF-I receptor inhibition in the presence of androgen has an enhanced effect on decreasing tumor growth, in part, through increased expression of the tumor suppressor gene TSC-22. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(24):7634-41).

Unraveling insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 actions in human disease

The IGF system plays critical roles in somatic growth in an endocrine fashion (somatomedin hypothesis) as well as proliferation and differentiation of normal and malignant cells in a paracrine/autocrine fashion. IGFBP-3 is known to modulate the actions of IGFs in circulation as well as the immediate extracellular environment. Interestingly, apart from the ability to inhibit or enhance IGF actions, IGFBP-3 also exhibits very clear, distinct biological effects independent of the IGF/IGF-I receptor axis. Over the past decade it has become widely appreciated that IGF/IGF-IR-independent actions of IGFBP-3 (antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects) contribute to improving the pathophysiology of a variety of human diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and malnutrition. Recent studies have implicated interaction of IGFBP-3 with a variety of proteins or signaling cascades critical to cell cycle control and apoptosis; however, the actual mechanism of IGFBP-3 action is still unclear. This review reinforces the concept in support of the IGF/IGF-IR axis-independent actions of IGFBP-3 and delineates potential underlying mechanisms involved and subsequent biological significance, focusing in particular on functional binding partners and the clinical significance of IGFBP-3 in the assessment of cancer risk.

Enhancing the apoptotic potential of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 in prostate cancer by modulation of CK2 phosphorylation

IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) promotes apoptosis by both IGF-dependent and -independent mechanisms. We have previously reported that phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 (S156) by DNA-dependent protein kinase enhances its nuclear accumulation and is essential for its ability to interact with retinoid X receptor-alpha and induce apoptosis in cultured prostate cancer cells. Using specific chemical inhibitors and small interfering RNA, we demonstrate that preventing casein kinase 2 (CK2) activation enhanced the apoptotic potential of IGFBP-3. We mapped potential CK2 phosphosphorylation sites in IGFBP-3 to S167 and S175 and identified that wild-type IGFBP-3- and IGFBP-3-S175A-induced apoptosis to a comparable extent. In contrast, IGFBP-3-S167A was far more potently apoptosis inducing due to inability to undergo CK2 phosphorylation. Pretreatment of 22RV1 cells with IGFBP-3 small interfering RNA also limits the ability of high doses of CK2 inhibitor to induce apoptosis. These effects can be reversed by the addition of exogenous IGFBP-3 protein, suggesting reciprocal regulation of cell survival and apoptosis by IGFBP-3 and CK2. These studies reveal multisite phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 that both positively and negatively regulate its apoptotic potential. Understanding such intrinsic regulation of IGFBP-3 action may enhance the development of potential cancer therapies.

Perspectives in mammalian IGFBP-3 biology: local vs. systemic action

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (IGFBP)-3 has traditionally been defined by its role as a binding protein and its association with IGF delivery and availability. Development of non-IGF binding IGFBP-3 analogs and the use of cell lines devoid of type 1 IGF receptors (IGF-R) have led to critical advances in the field of IGFBP-3 biology. These studies show that IGFBP-3 has IGF-independent roles in inhibiting cell proliferation in cancer cell lines. Nuclear transcription factor, retinoid X receptor (RXR)-alpha, and IGFBP-3 functionally interact to reduce prostate tumor growth and prostate-specific antigen in vivo. Moreover, IGFBP-3 inhibits insulin-stimulated glucose uptake into adipocytes independent of IGF. The purpose of this review is to highlight IGFBP-3 as a novel effector molecule and not just another "binding protein" by discussing its IGF-independent actions on metabolism and cell growth. Although this review presents studies that assume the role of IGFBP-3 as either an endocrine or autocrine/paracrine molecule, these systems may not exist as distinct entities, justifying the examination of IGFBP-3 in an integrated model. Also, we provide an overview of factors that regulate IGFBP-3 availability, including its production, methylation, and ubiquitination. We conclude with the role of IGFBP-3 in whole body systems and possible future applications of IGFBP-3 in physiology.

Secretion of MCP-1 and other paracrine factors in a novel tumor-bone coculture model

BACKGROUND

The bone-tumor microenvironment encompasses unique interactions between the normal cells of the bone and marrow cavity and the malignant cells from a primary or metastasized cancer. A multitude of paracrine factors within this microenvironment such as the growth factor, TGF-beta, and the chemokine, MCP-1, are secreted by many of these cell types. These factors can act in concert to modulate normal and malignant cell proliferation, malignant cell migration and invasion and, often, mediate bone cancer pain. Although many valuable in vitro and in vivo models exist, identifying the relevant paracrine factors and deciphering their interactions is still a challenge. The aim of our study is to test an ex vivo coculture model that will allow monitoring of the expression, release and regulation of paracrine factors during interactions of an intact femur explant and tumor cells.

METHODS

Intact or marrow-depleted neonatal mouse femurs and select murine and human sarcoma or carcinoma cell lines were incubated singly or in coculture in specialized well plates. Viability of the bone and cells was determined by immunohistochemical stains, microscopy and marrow cytopreps. Secretion and mRNA expression of paracrine factors was quantitated by ELISA and real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Compartments of the bone were optimally viable for up to 48 h in culture and tumor cells for up to 4 days. Bone was the major contributor of TGF-beta and MMP2 whereas both bone and sarcoma cells secreted the chemokine MCP-1 in cocultures. Synergistic interaction between the femur and sarcoma resulted in enhanced MCP-1 secretion and expression in cocultures and was dependent on the presence of the hematopoietic component of the bone as well as other bone cells. In contrast, coculturing with breast carcinoma cells resulted in reduction of TGF-beta and MCP-1 secretion from the bone.

CONCLUSION

These studies illustrate the feasibility of this model to examine paracrine interactions between intact bone and tumor cells. Further study of unique regulation of MCP-1 secretion and signaling between these cell types in different types of cancer will be possible using this simulated microenvironment.

Decoy receptor 3 overexpression and immunologic tolerance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development

The recently identified decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) inhibits FasL-induced apoptosis by binding to FasL, and it is considered to play a key role in the immune escape system of neoplastic cells. In order to examine the involvement of DcR3 in the immunologic tolerance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we investigated the amplification and expression of DcR3, FasL, and Fas in an HCC mice model using RT-PCR, western blotting, and ELISA, and analyzed the space-time relationship with various cytokines including the forkhead transcription factor forkhead/winged helix transcription factor gene (Foxp3), CTLA-4, TGF-beta, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma. The RT-PCR results revealed that Fas expression preceded that of DcR3 during the early phases of tumorigenesis. Thereafter, the expression of DcR3 was up-regulated; however, the expression of Fas was down-regulated and eventually ceased. DcR3 and FasL were expressed and amplified simultaneously in muscle tumor. CTLA-4 expression was earlier than Foxp3, and both CTLA-4 and Foxp3 amplification and expression were consistent with that of DcR3. The results suggest that the elevated levels of DcR3, Foxp3, and CTLA-4 in tissue were positively correlated with tumor growth. The partial tumor immunoregulation inclined to negative modulation, and DcR3 may play an important role in inducing immunologic tolerance.

Role of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins in mammary gland development

Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play an important role in mammary gland development and their effects are, in turn, influenced by a family of 6 IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). The IGFBPs are expressed in time- and tissue-specific fashion during the periods of rapid growth and involution of the mammary gland. The precise roles of these proteins in vivo have, however, been difficult to determine. This review examines the indirect evidence (evolution, chromosomal location and roles in lower life-forms) the evidence from in vitro studies and the attempts to examine their roles in vivo, using IGFBP-deficient and over-expression models. Evidence exists for a role of the IGFBPs in inhibition of the survival effects of IGFs as well as in IGF-enhancing effects from in vitro studies. The location of the IGFBPs, often associated with the extracellular matrix, suggests roles as a reservoir of IGFs or as a potential barrier, restricting access of IGFs to distinct cellular compartments. We also discuss the relative importance of IGF-dependent versus IGF-independent effects. IGF-independent effects include nuclear localization, activation of proteases and interaction with a variety of extracellular matrix and cell surface proteins. Finally, we examine the increasing evidence for the IGFBPs to be considered as part of a larger family of extracellular matrix proteins involved in morphogenesis and tissue re-modeling.

Longitudinal study of insulin-like growth factor, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3, and their polymorphisms: risk of neoplastic progression in Barrett's esophagus

BACKGROUND

Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is a potent mitogen. IGF-I and its main binding protein, IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), and their polymorphisms have been investigated in relation to risk of many cancers, but not esophageal adenocarcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used data and specimens from a longitudinal study of persons with Barrett's esophagus (n=344; median, 5.4 years follow up) to determine whether baseline serum concentrations of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 and associated polymorphisms were related to the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma or flow cytometric abnormalities.

RESULTS

Overall, circulating concentrations of IGF-I and IGBP-3 were not associated with risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma or flow cytometric abnormalities, with the exception of an approximate tripling of risk of aneuploidy among participants with higher IGFBP-3 levels [above median; adjusted hazard ratio (HR) comparing subjects with levels lower than median versus higher of equal to median, 2.7; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.2-6.0; P=0.01]. Genotypic analyses revealed that persons with the IGF-I [cytosine-adenine (CA)](19) or the IGFBP-3 A-202C C allele were associated with lower circulating concentrations of IGF-I (P(trend)=0.01) and IGFBP-3 (P(trend)=0.002), respectively. Persons with two copies of the IGF-I receptors 2-bp deletion allele had a nonsignificant 2-fold increased risk of tetraploidy (HR, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.9-5.9; P(trend)=0.11). After adjustment for IGFBP-3 levels, participants carrying two IGFBP-3 C alleles had a significantly higher risk of developing aneuploidy (HR, 3.8; 95% CI, 1.0-14.0; P(trend)=0.04) than carriers of A alleles; whereas no associations were observed between the outcomes studied and the IGF-I receptors AGG trinucleotide repeat polymorphism at position 97.

CONCLUSION

Our findings, although based on a relatively small number of outcomes and subject to several limitations, indicate a potential role of the complex IGF system in neoplastic progression among persons with Barrett's esophagus.

Relationship of cellular immunity, cytokines and CRP with clinical course in breast cancer patients with endocrine-dependent distant metastases treated with immunotherapy

We have reported important benefits and survival with an immunotherapy schedule in patients with endocrine-dependent breast cancer and distant metastases. Here clinical outcome is updated and its correlation with new immunological data is shown. In 32 evaluated breast cancer patients with endocrine-dependent distant metastases treated with a new immunotherapy schedule (cyclic administration of beta-interferon and interleukin-2), cellular immunity, cytokines and CRP were related to the clinical course. Estimated and true 5-10 year overall survival rates from first line antiestrogen and distant metastases were higher than previously reported in a similar population. Interleukin-2 administration was followed by a significant increase in total lymphocytes, CD4+, CD8+, CD16+56+ (NK) cells, IL-6, IL-12, and CRP (from P<0.04 to P<0.000) but no change in IL-10 and TGFbeta1 during clinical benefit. During progressive disease no change was observed in the former parameters, concomitant with a significant increase in IL-10 (P=0.020) and a significant decrease in TGFbeta1 (P=0.023). These findings confirm that cellular immunity is significantly stimulated by IL-2 only during clinical benefit. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that different changes of proinflammatory cytokines, CRP and inhibiting factors are consistent with associated clinical benefit or with disease progression, respectively.

Phosphorylation by DNA-dependent protein kinase is critical for apoptosis induction by insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) promotes apoptosis of cancer cells by both IGF-dependent and IGF-independent mechanisms. In vitro phosphorylation of IGFBP-3 by DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) has been reported but with unknown functional relevance. Using a chemical inhibitor for DNA-PK in prostate cancer cells and a paired system of glioblastoma cell lines that either lack or express DNA-PK, we show that the apoptosis-promoting and growth-inhibitory actions of IGFBP-3 are completely abrogated in the absence of catalytically active DNA-PK. In the absence of DNA-PK activity, IGFBP-3 has reduced nuclear accumulation and is unable to bind its nuclear binding partner retinoid X receptor (RXR) alpha. We assessed the importance of the three potential DNA-PK phosphorylation sites in IGFBP-3 using PCR-based site-directed mutagenesis. When transfected into 22RV1 cells, IGFBP-3-S165A and IGFBP-3-T170A functioned in an identical manner to wild-type IGFBP-3 to induce apoptosis. In contrast, IGFBP-3-S156A was unable to promote apoptosis and exhibited reduced nuclear accumulation, suggesting a key role for DNA-PK-dependent phosphorylation in the regulation of IGFBP-3 action. These studies reveal a novel regulatory mechanism for the actions of IGFBP-3 in prostate cancer and show phosphorylation of Ser(156) to be functionally critical in its apoptosis-inducing actions.

Growth inhibitory concentrations of androgens up-regulate insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 expression via an androgen response element in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells

IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), the most abundant circulating IGF binding protein, inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis by both IGF-I-dependent and -independent pathways. The ability of IGFBP-3 to inhibit tumor growth has been demonstrated in many cancers including prostate cancer (PCa). High concentrations of androgens, which inhibit the growth of the LNCaP human PCa cell line, have been shown to have both positive and negative effects on IGFBP-3 expression by different laboratories. To further explore the relationship between IGFBP-3 and androgens, we examined IGFBP-3 expression in LNCaP cells. We demonstrate that IGFBP-3 expression can be induced by 10 nm of the synthetic androgen R1881 or dihydrotestosterone. Transactivation assays show that the 6-kb IGFBP-3 promoter sequence directly responds to androgen treatment. In silico analysis identified a putative androgen response element (ARE) at -2,879/-2,865 in the IGFBP-3 promoter. A single point mutation in this ARE disrupted transactivation by R1881. Combining the data obtained from EMSA, chromatin immunoprecipitation and mutational analysis, we conclude that a novel functional ARE is present in the IGFBP-3 promoter that directly mediates androgen induction of IGFBP-3 expression. Furthermore, we found that the combination of androgens and calcitriol significantly potentiated the IGFBP-3 promoter activity, suggesting that enhanced induction of the expression of the endogenous IGFBP-3 gene may contribute to the greater inhibition of LNCaP cell growth by combined calcitriol and androgens. Because androgens are well known to stimulate PCa growth and androgen deprivation therapy causes PCa to regress, the stimulation by androgens of this antiproliferative and proapoptotic protein is paradoxical and raises interesting questions about the role of androgen-stimulated IGFBP-3 in PCa.

IGF-I and IGFBP-3 augment transforming growth factor-beta actions in human renal carcinoma cells

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most prevalent cancer of the kidney. In human RCC cells, we recently showed that insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) has growth-promoting effects regulated by IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3). In this study, the analysis was expanded to include the interaction between the IGF and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) systems in the human RCC cells Caki-2 (from a primary tumor) and SK-RC-52 (from a metastasis). Functional effects such as cell proliferation, TGF-beta receptor (TbetaR) signaling, and IGFBP-3 levels were monitored after stimulation with various concentrations of IGF-I, TGF-beta, and IGFBP-3. In addition, human RCC tissues as well as experimental human RCC tumors were analyzed for cellular expression of phosphorylated Smad2 by immunohistochemistry. TGF-beta regulated the endogenous IGFBP-3 levels in these RCC cells as neutralizing anti-TGF-beta(1-3) antibodies strongly reduced the basal IGFBP-3 level. In addition, IGF-I increased the IGFBP-3 levels five- to eightfold with TGF-beta acting in synergy to enhance the IGFBP-3 levels 12- to 17-fold. Neutralizing TGF-beta(1-3) activity circumvented the growth inhibitory effects of IGFBP-3 seen in SK-RC-52, whereas it inhibited the growth-promoting effects of IGFBP-3 in Caki-2. Moreover, IGF-I interacted directly with TGF-beta activation of the TbetaR complex by enhancing phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2. This study demonstrates a direct interaction of the IGF and TGF-beta systems in human renal carcinoma cells. The observations that IGF-I enhances the TGF-beta signaling and that TGF-beta promotes IGFBP-3 production and thus influence the biological activity of IGF may be of importance for future therapeutic options.

EGCG inhibits activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor in human colon cancer cells

The IGF/IGF-1R system, which includes the IGF, IGF-1R, and IGFBPs proteins, plays an important role in the development and growth of colorectal cancer. We previously reported that in the HT29 human colon cancer cell line EGCG, the major biologically active component of green tea, inhibits activation of the RTKs EGFR, HER2, and HER3, and that this is associated with inhibition of multiple downstream signaling pathways. Since IGF-1R is also a RTK, in this study we examined the effects of EGCG on the activity of IGF/IGF-1R system in human colon cancer cells. We found that the colon cancer cell lines Caco2, HT29, SW837, and SW480 express high levels of the IGF-1R receptor, and that both SW837 and SW480 cells display constitutive activation of this receptor. Treatment of SW837 cells with 20 microg/ml of EGCG (the IC50 concentration for growth inhibition) caused within 6 h a decrease in the phosphorylated (i.e., activated) form of the IGF-1R protein. At 12 h, there was a decrease in the levels of both IGF-1 protein and mRNA and within 3-6 h there was an increase in the levels of both IGFBP-3 protein and mRNA. The increased expression of the latter protein was sustained for at least 48 h. When SW837 cells were treated with EGCG for a longer time, i.e., 96 h, a very low concentration (1.0 microg/ml) of EGCG also caused inhibition of activation of IGF-1R, a decrease in the IGF-1 protein, and an increase in the IGFBP-3 protein. EGCG also caused a decrease in the levels of mRNAs that encode MMPs-7 and -9, proteins that proteolyze IGFBP-3. In addition, treatment with EGCG caused a transient increase in the expression of TGF-beta2, an inducer of IGFBP-3 expression. These findings expand the roles of EGCG as an inhibitor of critical RTKs involved in cell proliferation, providing further evidence that EGCG and related compounds may be useful in the chemoprevention or treatment of colorectal cancer.

Nonsecreted insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) can induce apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells by IGF-independent mechanisms without being concentrated in the nucleus

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), a secreted protein, has the intrinsic ability to induce apoptosis directly without binding insulin-like growth factors. Previous studies suggested that IGFBP-3 must be secreted to exert its biological functions. IGFBP-3 contains a nuclear localization signal (NLS), and exogenous IGFBP-3 is translocated into the nucleus, suggesting that both secretion and nuclear localization may play important roles in IGFBP-3 action. To address these questions, we fused yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) to mature IGFBP-3 lacking its signal peptide so that it would remain intracellular and mutated the C-terminal NLS of IGFBP-3, (228)KGRKR(232), to MDGEA. Following transfection of PC-3 human prostate cancer cells with these constructs, Western blots indicated that YFP-IGFBP-3 lacking a signal peptide was cell-associated and not present in the extracellular media. Moreover, the fusion protein was not N-glycosylated, indicating that it had not entered the secretory pathway. Confocal imaging showed that intracellular YFP-MDGEA-IGFBP-3 was predominantly cytoplasmic. Transient transfection of nonsecreted YFP-wild-type IGFBP-3 decreased cell viability, as assessed by staining with annexin V followed by flow cytometry. Induction of cell death was caspase-dependent, indicative of apoptosis. Apoptosis also was induced by the nonsecreted NLS mutant (YFP-MDGEA-IGFBP-3) alone and when the IGF-binding site also had been mutated. These results indicate that IGFBP-3 can induce apoptosis in an IGF-independent manner without being secreted or concentrated in the nucleus.

Effects of quercetin on insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and their binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) secretion and induction of apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Quercetin, the predominant flavonoid, has been reported to lower the risk of several cancers. This flavonoid found in onion, grapes, green vegetables, etc. has been shown to possess potent antiproliferative effects against various malignant cells. This study was designed to investigate its effects on insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and their binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) proteins secretion and also apoptosis induction in the human prostate cancer cell line, PC-3.

METHODS

We evaluated the secretion of IGF-I, -II and IGFBP-3 in quercetin treated cells by immunoradiometric (IRMA) method. Apoptosis was studied in quercetin treated cells by TUNEL and DNA fragmentation. Protein expressions of Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Bax and caspase-3 were studied by western blot.

RESULTS

At a dose of 100 microM concentration, we observed increased IGFBP-3 accumulation in PC-3 cells conditioned medium with a dose dependent increase with 2 fold over a base line, and significantly reduced the both IGF-I and IGF-II levels. Apoptosis induction was also confirmed by TUNEL assay. Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL protein expressions were significantly decreased and Bax and caspase-3 were increased.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the decreased level of IGFs could be due to the increased levels of IGFBP-3, because of the high binding affinity towards IGFs, thereby decreasing the cell proliferation. The increased level of IGFBP-3 was associated with increased pro-apoptotic proteins and apoptosis in response to quercetin, suggesting it may be a p53-independent effector of apoptosis in prostate cancer cells.

Promoter −202 A/C polymorphism of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 gene and non-small cell lung cancer risk

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) inhibits the mitogenic and antiapoptotic activity of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) by blocking the binding of IGF to its receptor. However, under certain circumstances, IGFBP-3 can enhance the activity of IGF by protecting IGF from degradation. More than half of the interindividual variations in IGFBP-3 levels are known to be genetically determined by the polymorphism at -202 locus of IGFBP-3 gene. Therefore, we attempted to ascertain whether the A-202C polymorphic variation of IGFBP-3 gene constitutes a risk factor for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our study included 209 NSCLC patients and 209 age-, gender- and smoking status-matched control subjects. The frequencies of each polymorphic variation in the control population were as follows: AA = 95 (45.5%), AC = 91 (43.5%) and CC = 23 (11.0%). In the NSCLC subjects, the genotypic frequencies were as follows: AA = 131 (62.7%), AC = 73 (34.9%) and CC = 5 (2.4%). We detected statistically significant differences in the genotypic distribution between the NSCLC and the control subjects (p < 0.05, Pearson's chi-square test). The NSCLC risk correlated significantly with AA genotype. Using CC genotype as a reference, the odds ratio for the subjects with AC genotype was 2.45 (95% CI = 1.17-5.40) and that for the ones with AA genotype was 4.58 (95% CI = 2.17-10.30). These results indicate that the dysregulation of IGF axis should now be considered as another important risk factor for NSCLC and a potential target for novel antineoplastic therapies and/or preventative strategies in high-risk groups.

Variation in plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3: genetic factors

Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play key roles in cell proliferation and apoptosis. Whereas relatively stable within individuals, IGFs vary substantially between individuals, and a large component of this variation may be determined by genetic factors. Several polymorphisms in IGF genes have been identified, although their functional significance is not clear. We evaluated the association of polymorphisms in IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 and circulating levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in 323 population-based control subjects enrolled in a case-control study of colorectal cancer from September 1999 through February 2002. Total IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were measured using ELISA assays, and all subjects were genotyped for a microsatellite polymorphism in IGF-1 and a single nucleotide polymorphism in IGFBP-3. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the association of genotype with circulating IGFs. IGF-1 levels were unrelated to either polymorphism. IGFBP-3 was significantly associated with IGFBP-3 genotype, with IGFBP-3 levels increasing from CC (1,895 ng/mL) --> GC (2,029 ng/mL) --> GG (2,182 ng/mL), (p-trend < 0.001). Having an IGF-1 genotype other than homozygous for the 19-repeat allele was associated with higher IGFBP-3 levels (1,945 versus 2,052 ng/mL). Furthermore, both IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 genotypes modified the relationship between postmenopausal hormone use and IGFs. This analysis provides evidence that common variation in IGF genes may contribute to the variation in circulating levels observed between individuals.

Characterization of a novel positive transcription regulatory element that differentially regulates the insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) gene in senescent cells

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is a well documented growth inhibitor and pro-apoptotic factor. IGFBP-3 mRNA and its protein are overexpressed by senescent human diploid fibroblasts. However, the mechanism responsible for the up-regulation of its expression is still unclear. This report describes a novel transcriptional regulatory element, IGFBP-3 enhancer element (IEE), identified in the 5' untranslated region of the IGFBP-3 gene. This element differentially activates IGFBP-3 expression in senescent versus young fibroblasts. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed abundant complexes in senescent cell nuclear extracts compared with young cell nuclear extracts. Similar to young proliferative cells, young quiescent cells showed reduced binding activity; enhancement of this activity was specific to senescent cells and not an effect of cell cycle arrest. The DNase I footprint revealed the protein-binding core sequence within the IEE through which the protein binds the IEE. Site-directed mutagenesis within IEE abolished binding activity and selectively decreased IGFBP-3 promoter activity in senescent (but not young) cells. Furthermore, introduction of an IEE decoy suppressed the endogenous IGFBP-3 gene expression specifically in senescent cells. These results point to the IEE as being a positive transcription regulatory element that contributes to the up-regulation of IGFBP-3 during cellular senescence.

Lack of synergy between estrogen and progesterone on local IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-2 secretion by both hormone-dependent and hormone-independent breast cancer explants in vitro. Effect of tamoxifen and mifepristone (RU 486)

The aim of the present study was to investigate direct effects of estrogen (E2) or progesterone (P4) given separately vs. estrogen+progesterone on local IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-2 secretion. Explants obtained from estrogen receptor positive plus progesterone receptor positive (ER+/PR+) and hormone receptors negative (ER-/PR-) tumors were incubated with E2, P4 or both. Tamoxifen was added to E2-exposed cultures; mifepristone (RU 486) was added to P4, and both were given to E2+P4-supplemented cultures. In hormone-dependent and hormone-independent tissues, treatment with estrogen+progesterone increased IGF-I and IGFBP-2 secretion with concomitant decrease in IGFBP-3, in the same manner as E2 or P4 given alone. Tamoxifen decreased the E2- and E2+P4-stimulated IGF-I secretion by hormone-dependent breast cancer explants. RU 486 decreased the P4- and E2+P4-stimulated IGF-I secretion with parallel stimulation of IGFBP-3 secretion by ER+/PR+ explants. Estradiol and progesterone had a synergistic action on IGFBP-2 secretion by hormone-dependent breast cancer explants. In conclusion, the presented data suggest that there is no synergistic action of E2 and P4 in influencing IGF/IGFBPs ratio and, additionally, suggest a protective action of antiestrogen and antiprogestagen against excessive IGF-I secretion.

Mannose 6-Phosphorylated Proteins Are Required for Tumor Necrosis Factor-induced Apoptosis

Whereas caspases are essential components in apoptosis, other proteases seem to be involved in programmed cell death. This study investigated the role of lysosomal mannose 6-phosphorylated proteins in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-induced apoptosis. We report that fibroblasts isolated from patients affected with inclusion-cell disease (ICD), having a deficient activity of almost all lysosomal hydrolases, are resistant to the toxic effect of TNF. These mutant cells exhibited a defect in TNF-induced caspase activation, Bid cleavage, and release of cytochrome c. In contrast, TNF-induced p42/p44 MAPK activation and CD54 expression remained unaltered. Human ICD lymphoblasts and fibroblasts derived from mice nullizygous for Igf2 and the two mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) receptors, Mpr300 and Mpr46, which develop an ICD-like phenotype, were also resistant to CD95 ligand and TNF, respectively. Moreover, correction of the lysosomal enzyme defect of ICD fibroblasts, using a medium enriched in M6P-containing proteins, enabled restoration of sensitivity to TNF. This effect was blocked by exogenous M6P but not by cathepsin B or L inhibitors. Altogether, these findings suggest that some M6P-bearing glycoproteins modulate the susceptibility to TNF-induced apoptosis. As a matter of fact, exogenous tripeptidyl peptidase 1, a lysosomal carboxypeptidase, could sensitize ICD fibroblasts to TNF. These observations highlight the hitherto unrecognized role of some mannose 6-phosphorylated proteins such as tripeptidyl peptidase 1 in the apoptotic cascade triggered by TNF.

What's new in the IGF-binding proteins?

Since their initial discovery over 25 years ago as IGF carrier proteins, the insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) family has grown to six members, ranging in size from 216 to 289 amino acids. The assumption over the years has been that this family of proteins, having higher affinities for IGF-I and IGF-II than does the IGF-IR, serves to block access of these ligands to the receptor. Although the need for such regulatory proteins is consistent with the constitutive secretion of IGFs from many cell types, it is not surprising that additional functions have begun to be uncovered for these proteins. This review will examine new and old actions of the IGFBPs from a biochemical and cell biological perspective.