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Yu JR, Liu YY, Gao YY, Qian LH, Qiu JL, Wang PP, Zhang GJ. Diterpenoid tanshinones inhibit gastric cancer angiogenesis through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117791. [PMID: 38301987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is a kind of Chinese herbal medicine known for activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis, with the effect of cooling blood and eliminating carbuncles, and has been proven to have the effect of treating tumors. However, the inhibitory effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge extracts (Diterpenoid tanshinones) on tumors by inhibiting angiogenesis has not been studied in detail. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the anti-gastric cancer effect of diterpenoid tanshinones (DT) on angiogenesis, including the therapeutic effects and pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS This experiment utilized network pharmacology was used to identify relevant targets and pathways of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-related components in the treatment of gastric cancer. The effects of DT on the proliferation and migration of human gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901 and human umbilical vein endothelial cell line HUVECs were evaluated, and changes in the expression of angiogenesis-related factors were measured. In vivo, experiments were conducted on nude mice to determine tumor activity, size, immunohistochemistry, and related proteins. RESULTS The findings showed that DT could inhibit the development of gastric cancer by suppressing the proliferation of gastric cancer cells, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting invasion and metastasis. In addition, the content of angiogenesis-related factors and proteins was significantly altered in DT-affected cells and animals. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that DT has potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of gastric cancer, as it can inhibit tumor growth and angiogenesis. It was also found that DT may affect the expression of the angiogenic factor VEGF through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, leading to the regulation of tumor angiogenesis. This study provides a new approach to the development of anti-tumor agents and has significant theoretical and clinical implications for the treatment of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Ru Yu
- Key Laboratory of Blood-Stasis-Toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for "Preventive Treatment" Smart Health of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu-Yue Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang-Yang Gao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li-Hui Qian
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia-Lin Qiu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pei-Pei Wang
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Guang-Ji Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Blood-Stasis-Toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for "Preventive Treatment" Smart Health of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Maurya NS, Kushwah S, Kushwaha S, Chawade A, Mani A. Prognostic model development for classification of colorectal adenocarcinoma by using machine learning model based on feature selection technique boruta. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6413. [PMID: 37076536 PMCID: PMC10115869 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33327-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer type and accounts for nearly one million deaths worldwide. The CRC mRNA gene expression datasets from TCGA and GEO (GSE144259, GSE50760, and GSE87096) were analyzed to find the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These significant genes were further processed for feature selection through boruta and the confirmed features of importance (genes) were subsequently used for ML-based prognostic classification model development. These genes were analyzed for survival and correlation analysis between final genes and infiltrated immunocytes. A total of 770 CRC samples were included having 78 normal and 692 tumor tissue samples. 170 significant DEGs were identified after DESeq2 analysis along with the topconfects R package. The 33 confirmed features of importance-based RF prognostic classification model have given accuracy, precision, recall, and f1-score of 100% with 0% standard deviation. The overall survival analysis had finalized GLP2R and VSTM2A genes that were significantly downregulated in tumor samples and had a strong correlation with immunocyte infiltration. The involvement of these genes in CRC prognosis was further confirmed on the basis of their biological function and literature analysis. The current findings indicate that GLP2R and VSTM2A may play a significant role in CRC progression and immune response suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Shree Maurya
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, India
| | - Shikha Kushwah
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, India
| | - Sandeep Kushwaha
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500032, India
| | - Aakash Chawade
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 230 53, Alnarp, Sweden.
| | - Ashutosh Mani
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, India.
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3
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Cui S. METTL3
‐mediated
m6A
modification of lnc
RNA RHPN1‐AS1
enhances cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer by activating
PI3K
/
AKT
pathway. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24761. [DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shoubin Cui
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University Yantai Shandong China
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4
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Zhao Z, Wang Z, Wang P, Liu S, Li Y, Yang X. EPDR1, Which Is Negatively Regulated by miR-429, Suppresses Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Progression via PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. Front Oncol 2021; 11:751567. [PMID: 35004274 PMCID: PMC8733570 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.751567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the main pathological type of ovarian cancer. In this study, we found that ependymin-related 1 (EPDR1) was remarkably downregulated in EOC tissues, and low EPDR1 expression was associated with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, metastasis, and poor prognosis. We confirmed that EPDR1 overexpression dramatically suppressed EOC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, EPDR1 inhibited EOC tumorigenesis and progression, at least in part, through the repression of the PI3K (Phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/AKT (AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 1) signaling pathway. Furthermore, the expression and function of EPDR1 were regulated by miR-429, as demonstrated by luciferase reporter assays and rescue experiments. In conclusion, our study validated that EPDR1, negatively regulated by miR-429, played an important role as a tumor-suppressor gene in EOC development via inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway. The miR-429/EPDR1 axis might provide novel therapeutic targets for individualized treatment of EOC patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhendan Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiling Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Pengling Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shujie Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zibo Spring Hospital Co., Ltd., Zibo, China
| | - Yingwei Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xingsheng Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Xingsheng Yang ,
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5
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Jain PP, Lai N, Xiong M, Chen J, Babicheva A, Zhao T, Parmisano S, Zhao M, Paquin C, Matti M, Powers R, Balistrieri A, Kim NH, Valdez-Jasso D, Thistlethwaite PA, Shyy JYJ, Wang J, Garcia JGN, Makino A, Yuan JXJ. TRPC6, a therapeutic target for pulmonary hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 321:L1161-L1182. [PMID: 34704831 PMCID: PMC8715021 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00159.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a fatal and progressive disease. Sustained vasoconstriction due to pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) contraction and concentric arterial remodeling due partially to PASMC proliferation are the major causes for increased pulmonary vascular resistance and increased pulmonary arterial pressure in patients with precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH) including PAH and PH due to respiratory diseases or hypoxemia. We and others observed upregulation of TRPC6 channels in PASMCs from patients with PAH. A rise in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in PASMC triggers PASMC contraction and vasoconstriction, while Ca2+-dependent activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is a pivotal signaling cascade for cell proliferation and gene expression. Despite evidence supporting a pathological role of TRPC6, no selective and orally bioavailable TRPC6 antagonist has yet been developed and tested for treatment of PAH or PH. In this study, we sought to investigate whether block of receptor-operated Ca2+ channels using a nonselective blocker of cation channels, 2-aminoethyl diphenylborinate (2-APB, administered intraperitoneally) and a selective blocker of TRPC6, BI-749327 (administered orally) can reverse established PH in mice. The results from the study show that intrapulmonary application of 2-APB (40 µM) or BI-749327 (3-10 µM) significantly and reversibly inhibited acute alveolar hypoxia-induced pulmonary vasoconstriction. Intraperitoneal injection of 2-APB (1 mg/kg per day) significantly attenuated the development of PH and partially reversed established PH in mice. Oral gavage of BI-749327 (30 mg/kg, every day, for 2 wk) reversed established PH by ∼50% via regression of pulmonary vascular remodeling. Furthermore, 2-APB and BI-749327 both significantly inhibited PDGF- and serum-mediated phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR in PASMC. In summary, the receptor-operated and mechanosensitive TRPC6 channel is a good target for developing novel treatment for PAH/PH. BI-749327, a selective TRPC6 blocker, is potentially a novel and effective drug for treating PAH and PH due to respiratory diseases or hypoxemia.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Boron Compounds/pharmacology
- Calcium Signaling
- Cells, Cultured
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Humans
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/drug therapy
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/metabolism
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/pathology
- Mice
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/genetics
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/drug effects
- Pulmonary Artery/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- TRPC6 Cation Channel/antagonists & inhibitors
- TRPC6 Cation Channel/genetics
- TRPC6 Cation Channel/metabolism
- Vasoconstriction
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritesh P Jain
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Ning Lai
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medicine and First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingmei Xiong
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medicine and First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiyuan Chen
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medicine and First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aleksandra Babicheva
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Tengteng Zhao
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Sophia Parmisano
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Manjia Zhao
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Cole Paquin
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Moreen Matti
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Ryan Powers
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Angela Balistrieri
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Nick H Kim
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Daniela Valdez-Jasso
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Patricia A Thistlethwaite
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - John Y-J Shyy
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jian Wang
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medicine and First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joe G N Garcia
- Department of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Ayako Makino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jason X-J Yuan
- Section of Physiology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
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6
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Kong WY, Yee ZY, Mai CW, Fang CM, Abdullah S, Ngai SC. Zebularine and trichostatin A sensitized human breast adenocarcinoma cells towards tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)-induced apoptosis. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02468. [PMID: 31687564 PMCID: PMC6819948 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising cancer therapeutic agent due to its selective killing on cancer cells while sparing the normal cells. Nevertheless, breast adenocarcinoma cells can develop TRAIL resistance. Therefore, this project investigated the anti-cancer effects of the combination of epigenetic drugs zebularine and trichostatin A (ZT) with TRAIL (TZT) on the human breast adenocarcinoma cells. This treatment regimen was compared with the natural anti-cancer compound curcumin (Cur) and standard chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (Dox). As compared to TRAIL treatment, TZT treatment hampered the cell viability of human breast adenocarcinoma cells MDA-MB-231 significantly but not MCF-7 and immortalized non-cancerous human breast epithelial cells MCF10A. Unlike TZT, Cur and Dox treatments reduced cell viability in both human breast adenocarcinoma and epithelial cells significantly. Nevertheless, there were no changes in cell cycle in both TRAIL and TZT treatments in breast adenocarcinoma and normal epithelial cells. Intriguingly, Cur and Dox treatment generally induced G2/M arrest in MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and MCF10A but Cur induced S phase arrest in MCF10A. The features of apoptosis such as morphological changes, apoptotic activity and the expression of cleaved poly (ADP) ribose polymerase (PARP) protein were more prominent in TRAIL and TZT-treated MDA-MB-231 as compared to MCF10A at 24 h post-treatment. Compared to TZT treatment, Cur and Dox treatments exhibited lesser apoptotic features in MDA-MB-231. Collectively, the sensitization using Zeb and TSA to augment TRAIL-induced apoptosis might be an alternative therapy towards human breast adenocarcinoma cells, without harming the normal human breast epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang Kong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih, 43500, Malaysia
| | - Zong Yang Yee
- School of Post-Graduate Studies, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Chun Wai Mai
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Research, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Chee-Mun Fang
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih, 43500, Malaysia
| | - Syahril Abdullah
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, 43400, Malaysia
- UPM-MAKNA Cancer Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, 43400, Malaysia
| | - Siew Ching Ngai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih, 43500, Malaysia
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7
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Jin J, Zhang J, Xue Y, Luo L, Wang S, Tian H. miRNA-15a regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma via regulating AKT pathway. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:6217-6226. [PMID: 31496725 PMCID: PMC6689766 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s213210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim Aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in many diseases including cancer. The expression of miR-15a was reported to be downregulated in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) compared to control tissue. However, the mechanism underlying this downregulation remains unclear. Methods The effects of miR-15a on the proliferation and invasion of PTC cells were evaluated by CCK-8 and transwell assays, respectively. Expression levels of AKT and rearranged during transfection (RET) in cells were assessed using Western blotting. The correlation of RET and miR-15a was validated by luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, in vivo assay was performed to demonstrate the effect of miR-15a on tumor growth. Results We confirmed that the expression of miR-15a was significantly lower in PTC tissue than that in normal tissue. Overexpression of miR-15a notably inhibited PTC cell proliferation and invasion via promoting apoptosis. Additionally, RET was found to be a target of miR-15a and this correlation was confirmed by dual-luciferase assay and Western blot. Furthermore, in vivo study revealed that overexpression of miR-15a inhibited tumor growth via downregulating the levels of RET and phosphorylated AKT. Conclusion In the present study, we demonstrated that miR-15a played an antitumor role in regulating PTC via targeting RET/AKT pathway. Therefore, miR-15a may serve as a potential molecular target for the treatment of PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Jin
- Department of Endocrinology, West China School of Medicine/West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urümqi, Xinjiang 830011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yigui Xue
- Teaching and Research Laboratory of Field Medical, Border Defense Training Group of Land Force Military Medical University, Changji, Xinjiang 831200, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urümqi, Xinjiang 830011, People's Republic of China
| | - Siyao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urümqi, Xinjiang 830011, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoming Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, West China School of Medicine/West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
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8
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Solano-Gálvez SG, Abadi-Chiriti J, Gutiérrez-Velez L, Rodríguez-Puente E, Konstat-Korzenny E, Álvarez-Hernández DA, Franyuti-Kelly G, Gutiérrez-Kobeh L, Vázquez-López R. Apoptosis: Activation and Inhibition in Health and Disease. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:E54. [PMID: 29973578 PMCID: PMC6163961 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many types of cell death, each involving multiple and complex molecular events. Cell death can occur accidentally when exposed to extreme physical, chemical, or mechanical conditions, or it can also be regulated, which involves a genetically coded complex machinery to carry out the process. Apoptosis is an example of the latter. Apoptotic cell death can be triggered through different intracellular signalling pathways that lead to morphological changes and eventually cell death. This is a normal and biological process carried out during maturation, remodelling, growth, and development in tissues. To maintain tissue homeostasis, regulatory, and inhibitory mechanisms must control apoptosis. Paradoxically, these same pathways are utilized during infection by distinct intracellular microorganisms to evade recognition by the immune system and therefore survive, reproduce and develop. In cancer, neoplastic cells inhibit apoptosis, thus allowing their survival and increasing their capability to invade different tissues and organs. The purpose of this work is to review the generalities of the molecular mechanisms and signalling pathways involved in apoptosis induction and inhibition. Additionally, we compile the current evidence of apoptosis modulation during cancer and Leishmania infection as a model of apoptosis regulation by an intracellular microorganism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Georgina Solano-Gálvez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Jack Abadi-Chiriti
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Luis Gutiérrez-Velez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Eduardo Rodríguez-Puente
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Enrique Konstat-Korzenny
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Diego-Abelardo Álvarez-Hernández
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
| | - Giorgio Franyuti-Kelly
- Medical IMPACT, Infectious Disease Department, Mexico City 53900, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Laila Gutiérrez-Kobeh
- Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, División Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología, Mexico City, 14080, Mexico.
| | - Rosalino Vázquez-López
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucán Estado de México 52786, México.
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9
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Chen MB, Ji XZ, Liu YY, Zeng P, Xu XY, Ma R, Guo ZD, Lu JW, Feng JF. Ulk1 over-expression in human gastric cancer is correlated with patients' T classification and cancer relapse. Oncotarget 2018; 8:33704-33712. [PMID: 28410240 PMCID: PMC5464904 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulk1 is a key autophagy protein. Here, we tested expression and potential function of Ulk1 in human gastric cancer. Ulk1 mRNA and protein were significantly elevated in multiple fresh human gastric cancer tissues. Its level was relatively low in surrounding normal epithelial tissues. Ulk1 over-expression was also observed in several gastric cancer cell lines (AGS, HGC-27, and SNU601). Remarkably, Ulk1 knockdown by targeted-shRNA inhibited AGS gastric cancer cell survival and proliferation. On the other hand, exogenous Ulk1 over-expression could further promote AGS cell survival and proliferation. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining assay of 145 paraffin-embedded gastric cancer tissues showed that Ulk1 was over-expressed in majority (114 out of 145) of gastric cancer tissues. Importantly, high Ulk1 expression in gastric cancer was correlated with patients' T classification and cancer relapse. Together, we demonstrate that Ulk1 over-expression in human gastric cancer is pro-survival. Its over-expression is associated with patients' T classification and cancer relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Bin Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology, Kunshan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Zhi Ji
- Departments of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Institute of Cancer, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology, Kunshan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ping Zeng
- Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology, Kunshan First People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xin-Yu Xu
- Departments of Pathology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Institute of Cancer, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Rong Ma
- Clinical Cancer Research Center, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zheng-Dong Guo
- Departments of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Institute of Cancer, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Wei Lu
- Departments of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Institute of Cancer, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Ji-Feng Feng
- Departments of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Province Institute of Cancer, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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10
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Huang W, Chen C, Liu X. Hindlimb suspension-induced cell apoptosis in the posterior parietal cortex and lateral geniculate nucleus: corresponding changes in c-Fos protein and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2018. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2018-020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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11
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Microgravity Induction of TRAIL Expression in Preosteoclast Cells Enhances Osteoclast Differentiation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:25143. [PMID: 27142480 PMCID: PMC4855152 DOI: 10.1038/srep25143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence indicates that astronauts experience significant bone loss in space. We previously showed that simulated microgravity (μXg) using the NASA developed rotary cell culture system (RCCS) enhanced bone resorbing osteoclast (OCL) differentiation. However, the mechanism by which μXg increases OCL formation is unclear. RANK/RANKL signaling pathway is critical for OCL differentiation. Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) has been shown to increase osteoclastogenesis. We hypothesize that TRAIL may play an important role in μXg enhanced OCL differentiation. In this study, we identified by RT profiler PCR array screening that μXg induces high levels of TRAIL expression in murine preosteoclast cells in the absence of RANKL stimulation compared to ground based (Xg) cultures. We further identified that μXg elevated the adaptor protein TRAF-6 and fusion genes OC-STAMP and DC-STAMP expression in preosteoclast cells. Interestingly, neutralizing antibody against TRAIL significantly reduced μXg induced OCL formation. We further identified that over-expression of pTRAIL in RAW 264.7 cells enhanced OCL differentiation. These results indicate that TRAIL signaling plays an important role in the μXg increased OCL differentiation. Therefore, inhibition of TRAIL expression could be an effective countermeasure for μXg induced bone loss.
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12
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Shen J, Hong Y, Zhao Q, Zhang JL. Preclinical evaluation of perifosine as a potential promising anti-rhabdomyosarcoma agent. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:1025-33. [PMID: 26269112 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3740-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a highly malignant and metastatic pediatric cancer that arises from the skeletal muscle. Recent studies have identified an important role of AKT signaling in RMS progression. In the current study, we investigated the activity of perifosine, an oral alkylphospholipid AKT inhibitor, against human RMS cells (RD and Rh-30 lines) both in vivo and in vitro, and studied the underlying mechanisms. We showed that perifosine significantly inhibited RMS cell growth in concentration- and time-dependent manners. Meanwhile, perifosine induced dramatic apoptosis in RMS cells. At the signaling level, perifosine blocked AKT activation, while inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production as well as JNK and P38 phosphorylations in RMS cells. Restoring AKT activation by introducing a constitutively active-AKT (CA-AKT) only alleviated (not abolished) perifosine-induced cytotoxicity in RD cells. Yet, the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) as well as pharmacological inhibitors against JNK (SP-600125) or P38 (SB-203580) suppressed perifosine-induced cytotoxicity in RMS cells. Thus, perifosine induces growth inhibition and apoptosis in RMS cells through mechanisms more than just blocking AKT. In vivo, oral administration of perifosine significantly inhibited growth of Rh-30 xenografts in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. Our data indicate that perifosine might be further investigated as a promising anti-RMS agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Shen
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qing-chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Hong
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qing-chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiong Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian-Li Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qing-chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China.
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13
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O'Leary L, van der Sloot AM, Reis CR, Deegan S, Ryan AE, Dhami SPS, Murillo LS, Cool RH, Correa de Sampaio P, Thompson K, Murphy G, Quax WJ, Serrano L, Samali A, Szegezdi E. Decoy receptors block TRAIL sensitivity at a supracellular level: the role of stromal cells in controlling tumour TRAIL sensitivity. Oncogene 2015; 35:1261-70. [PMID: 26050621 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a death ligand cytokine known for its cytotoxic activity against malignantly transformed cells. TRAIL induces cell death through binding to death receptors DR4 and DR5. The inhibitory decoy receptors (DcR1 and DcR2) co-expressed with death receptor 4 (DR4)/DR5 on the same cell can block the transmission of the apoptotic signal. Here, we show that DcRs also regulate TRAIL sensitivity at a supracellular level and thus represent a mechanism by which the microenvironment can diminish tumour TRAIL sensitivity. Mathematical modelling and layered or spheroid stroma-extracellular matrix-tumour cultures were used to model the tumour microenvironment. By engineering TRAIL to escape binding by DcRs, we found that DcRs do not only act in a cell-autonomous or cis-regulatory manner, but also exert trans-cellular regulation originating from stromal cells and affect tumour cells, highlighting the potent inhibitory effect of DcRs in the tumour tissue and the necessity of selective targeting of the two death-inducing TRAIL receptors to maximise efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L O'Leary
- Apoptosis Research Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - A M van der Sloot
- EMBL/CRG Systems Biology Research Unit, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, University of Montreal, 2950, Chemin de Polytechnique Pavillon Marcelle-Coutu, Dock 20, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - C R Reis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - S Deegan
- Apoptosis Research Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - A E Ryan
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - S P S Dhami
- Apoptosis Research Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - L S Murillo
- National Centre for Biomedical Engineering Science, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - R H Cool
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - P Correa de Sampaio
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - K Thompson
- Centre for Microscopy and Imaging, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - G Murphy
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - W J Quax
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - L Serrano
- EMBL/CRG Systems Biology Research Unit, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Samali
- Apoptosis Research Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - E Szegezdi
- Apoptosis Research Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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14
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Akkoç Y, Berrak Ö, Arısan ED, Obakan P, Çoker-Gürkan A, Palavan-Ünsal N. Inhibition of PI3K signaling triggered apoptotic potential of curcumin which is hindered by Bcl-2 through activation of autophagy in MCF-7 cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2015; 71:161-71. [PMID: 25960232 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2015.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Curcumin is a natural anti-cancer agent derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa). Curcumin triggers intrinsic apoptotic cell death by activating mitochondrial permeabilization due to the altered expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members. Phosphoinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and Akt, key molecular players in the survival mechanism, have been shown to be associated with the Bcl-2 signaling cascade; therefore, evaluating the therapeutic efficiency of drugs that target both survival and the apoptosis mechanism has gained importance in cancer therapy. We found that Bcl-2 overexpression is a limiting factor for curcumin-induced apoptosis in highly metastatic MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Forced overexpression of Bcl-2 also blocked curcumin-induced autophagy in MCF-7 cells, through its inhibitory interactions with Beclin-1. Pre-treatment of PI3K inhibitor LY294002 enhanced curcumin-induced cell death, apoptosis, and autophagy via modulating the expression of Bcl-2 family members and autophagosome formation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Atg7 silencing further increased apoptotic potential of curcumin in the presence or absence of LY294002 in wt and Bcl-2+ MCF-7 cells. The findings of this study support the hypothesis that blocking the PI3K/Akt pathway may further increased curcumin-induced apoptosis and overcome forced Bcl-2 expression level mediated autophagic responses against curcumin treatment in MCF-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunus Akkoç
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Özge Berrak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Damla Arısan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Pınar Obakan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ajda Çoker-Gürkan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Narçin Palavan-Ünsal
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Kültür University, Atakoy Campus, 34156 Bakirkoy-Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Lim EK, Kim T, Paik S, Haam S, Huh YM, Lee K. Nanomaterials for Theranostics: Recent Advances and Future Challenges. Chem Rev 2014; 115:327-94. [DOI: 10.1021/cr300213b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 916] [Impact Index Per Article: 91.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Kyung Lim
- Department
of Radiology, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-752, Korea
- BioNanotechnology
Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 305-806, Korea
| | - Taekhoon Kim
- Department
of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 136-701, Korea
- Electronic
Materials Laboratory, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Mt. 14-1,
Nongseo-Ri, Giheung-Eup, Yongin-Si, Gyeonggi-Do 449-712, Korea
| | - Soonmyung Paik
- Severance
Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-749, Korea
- Division
of Pathology, NSABP Foundation, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15212, United States
| | - Seungjoo Haam
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749, Korea
| | - Yong-Min Huh
- Department
of Radiology, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-752, Korea
| | - Kwangyeol Lee
- Department
of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 136-701, Korea
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16
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Tabernero J, Chawla SP, Kindler H, Reckamp K, Chiorean EG, Azad NS, Lockhart AC, Hsu CP, Baker NF, Galimi F, Beltran P, Baselga J. Anticancer activity of the type I insulin-like growth factor receptor antagonist, ganitumab, in combination with the death receptor 5 agonist, conatumumab. Target Oncol 2014; 10:65-76. [PMID: 24816908 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-014-0315-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Agents targeting the insulin-like growth factor receptor type 1 (IGF1R) have shown antitumor activity. Based on the evidence for interaction between the IGF-1 and TRAIL pathways, we hypothesized that the combination of ganitumab (monoclonal antibody to IGF1R) with the pro-apoptotic death receptor 5 agonist, conatumumab, might increase antitumor response. Ganitumab and conatumumab were tested in combination in a Colo-205 xenograft model. Part 1 of the clinical study was a phase Ib program of three doses of conatumumab (1, 3, 15 mg/kg) in combination with 18 mg/kg ganitumab to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in patients with advanced solid tumors. Part 2 was conducted in six cohorts with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (squamous or non-squamous histology), colorectal cancer, sarcoma, pancreatic cancer, or ovarian cancer, treated at the recommended doses of the combination. The combination was significantly more active in the Colo-205 xenograft model than either single agent alone (p < 0.0015). In part 1 of the clinical study, no dose-limiting toxicities were observed and the MTD of conatumumab was 15 mg/kg in combination with 18 mg/kg ganitumab. In part 2, 78 patients were treated and there were no objective responses but 28 patients (36 %) had stable disease (median 46 days, range 0-261). The combination was well-tolerated with no new toxicities. In conclusion, the combination of ganitumab and conatumumab was well-tolerated but had no objective responses in the population tested. The successful future application of this combination of antitumor mechanisms may rely on the identification of predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Tabernero
- Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, Barcelona, 08035, Spain,
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17
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Glucagon-like peptide 2 in colon carcinogenesis: Possible target for anti-cancer therapy? Pharmacol Ther 2013; 139:87-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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18
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Oncoapoptotic signaling and deregulated target genes in cancers: special reference to oral cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2013; 1836:123-45. [PMID: 23602834 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2012] [Revised: 04/07/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a class of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The development of cancer takes place in a multi-step process during which cells acquire a series of mutations that eventually lead to unrestrained cell growth and division, inhibition of cell differentiation, and evasion of cell death. Dysregulation of oncoapoptotic genes, growth factors, receptors and their downstream signaling pathway components represent a central driving force in tumor development. The detailed studies of signal transduction pathways for mechanisms of cell growth and apoptosis have significantly advanced our understanding of human cancers, subsequently leading to more effective treatments. Oral squamous cell carcinoma represents a classic example of multi-stage carcinogenesis. It gradually evolves through transitional precursor lesions from normal epithelium to a full-blown metastatic phenotype. Genetic alterations in many genes encoding crucial proteins, which regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, survival and apoptosis, have been implicated in oral cancer. As like other solid tumors, in oral cancer these genes include the ones coding for cell cycle regulators or oncoproteins (e.g. Ras, Myc, cyclins, CDKs, and CKIs), tumor suppressors (e.g. p53 and pRb), pro-survival proteins (e.g. telomerase, growth factors or their receptors), anti-apoptotic proteins (e.g. Bcl2 family, IAPs, and NF-kB), pro-apoptotic proteins (e.g. Bax and BH-3 family, Fas, TNF-R, and caspases), and the genes encoding key transcription factors or elements for signal transduction leading to cell growth and apoptosis. Here we discuss the current knowledge of oncoapoptotic regulation in human cancers with special reference to oral cancers.
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19
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Yao C, Wei JJ, Wang ZY, Ding HM, Li D, Yan SC, Yang YJ, Gu ZP. Perifosine induces cell apoptosis in human osteosarcoma cells: new implication for osteosarcoma therapy? Cell Biochem Biophys 2013; 65:217-27. [PMID: 23015227 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-012-9423-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the advances of adjuvant chemotherapy and significant improvement of survival, the prognosis for patients with osteosarcoma is generally poor. The search for more effective anti-osteosarcoma agents is necessary and urgent. Here we report that perifosine induces cell apoptosis and growth inhibition in cultured human osteosarcoma cells. Perifosine blocks Akt/mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, while promoting caspase-3, c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), and p53 activation. Further, perifosine inhibits survivin expression probably by disrupting its association with heat shock protein-90 (HSP-90). These signaling changes together were responsible for a marked increase of osteosarcoma cell apoptosis and growth inhibition. Finally, we found that a low dose of perifosine enhanced etoposide- or doxorubicin-induced anti-OS cells activity. The results together suggest that perifosine might be used as a novel and effective anti-osteosarcoma agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yao
- Department of Orthopedics, BenQ Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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20
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Jendželovský R, Koval J, Mikeš J, Papčová Z, Plšíková J, Fedoročko P. Inhibition of GSK-3β reverses the pro-apoptotic effect of proadifen (SKF-525A) in HT-29 colon adenocarcinoma cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2012; 26:775-82. [PMID: 22683934 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2012.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Proadifen (SKF-525A) is a well-known inhibitor of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases. Besides the prevention of drug metabolism it affects the proliferation of cancer cells, although the mechanisms of possible anti-cancer activity of proadifen have not been fully understood yet. The aim of this study therefore was to evaluate the potential anti-proliferative effect of proadifen on HT-29 colon cancer cells. Our results show that proadifen inhibited the growth of HT-29 cells by the accumulation of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, reduction of metabolic activity and colony formation and by the induction of apoptosis. Analyses of Western blots and flow cytometry revealed time- and dose-dependent phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage. Intense upregulation of NAG-1 and ATF3 and downregulation of Mcl-1 and Egr-1 were also observed. Further investigation showed that NAG-1 gene silencing by siRNA had no effect on the pro-apoptotic action of proadifen. In contrast, we found that AR-A014418, the specific inhibitor of glycogen synthase kinase-3 β (GSK-3β), significantly decreased proadifen-induced apoptosis. Inactivation of GSK-3β (phosphorylation at serine 9) resulted in changes in phosphatidylserine externalization and caspase-3 activation. These data suggest that GSK-3β is an important factor in the induction of apoptosis in HT-29 colon cancer cells treated with proadifen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rastislav Jendželovský
- Institute of Biology and Ecology, Department of Cellular Biology, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Slovakia
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21
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Yu T, Chen X, Zhang W, Li J, Xu R, Wang TC, Ai W, Liu C. Krüppel-like factor 4 regulates intestinal epithelial cell morphology and polarity. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32492. [PMID: 22384261 PMCID: PMC3286469 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is a zinc finger transcription factor that plays a vital role in regulating cell lineage differentiation during development and maintaining epithelial homeostasis in the intestine. In normal intestine, KLF4 is predominantly expressed in the differentiated epithelial cells. It has been identified as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer. KLF4 knockout mice demonstrated a decrease in number of goblet cells in the colon, and conditional ablation of KLF4 from the intestinal epithelium led to altered epithelial homeostasis. However, the role of KLF4 in differentiated intestinal cells and colon cancer cells, as well as the mechanism by which it regulates homeostasis and represses tumorigenesis in the intestine is not well understood. In our study, KLF4 was partially depleted in the differentiated intestinal epithelial cells by a tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase. We found a significant increase in the number of goblet cells in the KLF4-deleted small intestine, suggesting that KLF4 is not only required for goblet cell differentiation, but also required for maintaining goblet cell numbers through its function in inhibiting cell proliferation. The number and position of Paneth cells also changed. This is consistent with the KLF4 knockout study using villin-Cre [1]. Through immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and statistical analysis, we found that a stem cell and/or tuft cell marker, DCAMKL1, and a proliferation marker, Ki67, are affected by KLF4 depletion, while an enteroendocrine cell marker, neurotensin (NT), was not affected. In addition, we found KLF4 depletion altered the morphology and polarity of the intestinal epithelial cells. Using a three-dimensional (3D) intestinal epithelial cyst formation assay, we found that KLF4 is essential for cell polarity and crypt-cyst formation in human colon cancer cells. These findings suggest that, as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer, KLF4 affects intestinal epithelial cell morphology by regulating proliferation, differentiation and polarity of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxin Yu
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Biological and Molecular Biochemistry, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Xi Chen
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Wen Zhang
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ren Xu
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Timothy C. Wang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Irving Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Walden Ai
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Chunming Liu
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Ellagic acid prevents rat colon carcinogenesis induced by 1, 2 dimethyl hydrazine through inhibition of AKT-phosphoinositide-3 kinase pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 660:249-58. [PMID: 21463623 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Revised: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Colon cancer is the third most malignant neoplasm in the world and chemoprevention through dietary intervention is an emerging option to reduce its mortality. Ellagic acid (EA) a major component of berries possesses attractive biological deeds. This study is aimed to investigate the effect of ellagic acid in fostering apoptosis in 1,2-dimethyl hydrazine (DMH) mediated experimental colon carcinogenesis model. Wistar male rats were segregated into four groups: group I-control rats, group II-rats received ellagic acid (60 mg/kg body weight p.o. every day), rats in group III-induced with DMH (20 mg/kg body weight, s.c.) for 15 weeks, DMH-induced group IV rats were initiated with ellagic acid treatment. The present study is designed to explore the significance of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt molecular pathway as well as ellagic acid's chemopreventive effect in colon cancer. DMH-induced rats exhibited elevated expressions of PI3K and Akt as confirmed by immunofluorescence, immunoblot and confocal microscopic analysis. Mechanistically, ellagic acid was found to prevent PI3K/Akt activation that in turn, results in modulation of its downstream Bcl-2 family proteins. Bax expression and caspase-3 activation was noted after ellagic acid supplementation leading to elevation of cytochrome c (cyt c) levels and finally cell death. These observations were supported by the DNA fragmentation results, which showed the occurrence of apoptosis. This study reveals the involvement of PI3K-Akt signaling through which ellagic acid induces apoptosis and subsequently suppresses colon cancer during DMH-induced rat colon carcinogenesis. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that ellagic acid begets apoptosis in DMH-induced colon carcinoma.
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23
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Wang Q, Zhou Y, Weiss HL, Chow CW, Evers BM. NFATc1 regulation of TRAIL expression in human intestinal cells. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19882. [PMID: 21603612 PMCID: PMC3095616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL; Apo2) has been shown to promote intestinal cell differentiation. Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) participates in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes, including differentiation. Here, we examined the role of NFAT in the regulation of TRAIL in human intestinal cells. Treatment with a combination of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) plus the calcium ionophore A23187 (Io) increased NFAT activation and TRAIL expression; pretreatment with the calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporine A (CsA), an antagonist of NFAT signaling, diminished NFAT activation and TRAIL induction. In addition, knockdown of NFATc1, NFATc2, NFATc3, and NFATc4 blocked PMA/Io increased TRAIL protein expression. Expression of NFATc1 activated TRAIL promoter activity and increased TRAIL mRNA and protein expression. Deletion of NFAT binding sites from the TRAIL promoter did not significantly abrogate NFATc1-increased TRAIL promoter activity, suggesting an indirect regulation of TRAIL expression by NFAT activation. Knockdown of NFATc1 increased Sp1 transcription factor binding to the TRAIL promoter and, importantly, inhibition of Sp1, by chemical inhibition or RNA interference, increased TRAIL expression. These studies identify a novel mechanism for TRAIL regulation by which activation of NFATc1 increases TRAIL expression through negative regulation of Sp1 binding to the TRAIL promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingding Wang
- Department of Surgery, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Markey Cancer Center, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Yuning Zhou
- Markey Cancer Center, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Heidi L. Weiss
- Markey Cancer Center, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Chi-Wing Chow
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - B. Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Markey Cancer Center, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Prasad S, Yadav VR, Kannappan R, Aggarwal BB. Ursolic acid, a pentacyclin triterpene, potentiates TRAIL-induced apoptosis through p53-independent up-regulation of death receptors: evidence for the role of reactive oxygen species and JNK. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:5546-57. [PMID: 21156789 PMCID: PMC3037668 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.183699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2010] [Revised: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovery of the molecular targets of traditional medicine and its chemical footprints can validate the use of such medicine. In the present report, we investigated the effect of ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in rosemary and holy basil, on apoptosis induced by TRAIL. We found that UA potentiated TRAIL-induced apoptosis in cancer cells. In addition, UA also sensitized TRAIL-resistant cancer cells to the cytokine. When we investigated the mechanism, we found that UA down-regulated cell survival proteins and induced the cell surface expression of both TRAIL receptors, death receptors 4 and 5 (DR4 and -5). Induction of receptors by UA occurred independently of cell type. Gene silencing of either receptor by small interfering RNA reduced the apoptosis induced by UA and the effect of TRAIL. In addition, UA also decreased the expression of decoy receptor 2 (DcR2) but not DcR1. Induction of DRs was independent of p53 because UA induced DR4 and DR5 in HCT116 p53(-/-) cells. Induction of DRs, however, was dependent on JNK because UA induced JNK, and its pharmacologic inhibition abolished the induction of the receptors. The down-regulation of survival proteins and up-regulation of the DRs required reactive oxygen species (ROS) because UA induced ROS, and its quenching abolished the effect of the terpene. Also, potentiation of TRAIL-induced apoptosis by UA was significantly reduced by both ROS quenchers and JNK inhibitor. In addition, UA was also found to induce the expression of DRs, down-regulate cell survival proteins, and activate JNK in orthotopically implanted human colorectal cancer in a nude mouse model. Overall, our results showed that UA potentiates TRAIL-induced apoptosis through activation of ROS and JNK-mediated up-regulation of DRs and down-regulation of DcR2 and cell survival proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahdeo Prasad
- From the Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Vivek R. Yadav
- From the Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ramaswamy Kannappan
- From the Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Bharat B. Aggarwal
- From the Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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25
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Zhao Y, Wang X, Wang T, Hu X, Hui X, Yan M, Gao Q, Chen T, Li J, Yao M, Wan D, Gu J, Fan J, He X. Acetylcholinesterase, a key prognostic predictor for hepatocellular carcinoma, suppresses cell growth and induces chemosensitization. Hepatology 2011; 53:493-503. [PMID: 21274871 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) plays important roles in the cholinergic system, and its dysregulation is involved in a variety of human diseases. However, the roles and implications of ACHE in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain elusive. Here we demonstrate that ACHE was significantly down-regulated in the cancerous tissues of 69.2% of HCC patients, and the low ACHE expression in HCC was correlated with tumor aggressiveness, an elevated risk of postoperative recurrence, and a low survival rate. Both the recombinant ACHE protein and the enhanced expression of ACHE significantly inhibited HCC cell growth in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. Further study showed that ACHE suppressed cell proliferation via its enzymatic activity of acetylcholine catalysis and degradation. Moreover, ACHE could inactivate mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphatidyl inositol-3'-phosphate kinase/protein kinase B pathways in HCC cells and thereby increase the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β and lead to β-catenin degradation and cyclin D1 suppression. In addition, increased ACHE expression could remarkably sensitize HCC cells to chemotherapeutic drugs (i.e., adriamycin and etoposide). CONCLUSION For the first time, we describe the function of ACHE as a tumor growth suppressor in regulating cell proliferation, the relevant signaling pathways, and the drug sensitivity of HCC cells. ACHE is a promising independent prognostic predictor for HCC recurrence and the survival of HCC patients. These findings provide new insights into potential strategies for drug discovery and improved HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Zhao
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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26
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Huang L, Wu S, Xing D. High fluence low-power laser irradiation induces apoptosis via inactivation of Akt/GSK3β signaling pathway. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:588-601. [PMID: 20683916 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
High fluence low-power laser irradiation (HF-LPLI) is a newly discovered stimulus through generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) to trigger cell apoptosis. Activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) is proved to be involved in intrinsic apoptotic pathways under various stimuli. However, whether the proapoptotic factor GSK3β participates in HF-LPLI-induced apoptosis has not been elucidated. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the involvement of GSK3β in apoptosis under HF-LPLI treatment (120 J/cm2, 633 nm). We found that GSK3β activation could promote HF-LPLI-induced apoptosis, which could be prevented by lithium chloride (a selective inhibitor of GSK3β) exposure or by GSK3β-KD (a dominant-negative GSK3β) overexpression. We also found that the activation of GSK3β by HF-LPLI was due to the inactivation of protein kinase B (Akt), a widely reported and important upstream negative regulator of GSK3β, indicating the existence and inactivation of Akt/GSK3β signaling pathway. Moreover, the inactivation of Akt/GSK3β pathway depended on the fluence of HF-LPLI treatment. Furthermore, vitamin c, a ROS scavenger, completely prevented the inactivation of Akt/GSK3β pathway, indicating ROS generation was crucial for the inactivation. In addition, GSK3β promoted Bax activation by down-regulating Mcl-1 upon HF-LPLI treatment. Taken together, we have identified a new and important proapoptotic signaling pathway that is consisted of Akt/GSK3β inactivation for HF-LPLI stimulation. Our research will extend the knowledge into the biological mechanisms induced by LPLI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
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Gravina GL, Festuccia C, Marampon F, Popov VM, Pestell RG, Zani BM, Tombolini V. Biological rationale for the use of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors as new strategy for modulation of tumor response to chemotherapy and radiation. Mol Cancer 2010; 9:305. [PMID: 21108789 PMCID: PMC3001713 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-9-305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications play a key role in the patho-physiology of many tumors and the current use of agents targeting epigenetic changes has become a topic of intense interest in cancer research. DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors represent a promising class of epigenetic modulators. Research performed yielded promising anti-tumorigenic activity for these agents in vitro and in vivo against a variety of hematologic and solid tumors. These epigenetic modulators cause cell cycle and growth arrest, differentiation and apoptosis. Rationale for combining these agents with cytotoxic therapy or radiation is straightforward since the use of DNMT inhibitor offers greatly improved access for cytotoxic agents or radiation for targeting DNA-protein complex. The positive results obtained with these combined approaches in preclinical cancer models demonstrate the potential impact DNMT inhibitors may have in treatments of different cancer types. Therefore, as the emerging interest in use of DNMT inhibitors as a potential chemo- or radiation sensitizers is constantly increasing, further clinical investigations are inevitable in order to finalize and confirm the consistency of current observations.The present article will provide a brief review of the biological significance and rationale for the clinical potential of DNMT inhibitors in combination with other chemotherapeutics or ionizing radiation. The molecular basis and mechanisms of action for these combined treatments will be discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni L Gravina
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Radiation Oncology, S, Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, University of L'Aquila, Medical School, L'Aquila 67100, Italy.
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Phukan S, Babu VS, Kannoji A, Hariharan R, Balaji VN. GSK3beta: role in therapeutic landscape and development of modulators. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:1-19. [PMID: 20331603 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00661.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3beta) is a multifunctional serine/threonine kinase which was originally identified as a regulator of glycogen metabolism. It plays a key role in the regulation of numerous signalling pathways including cellular process such as cell cycle, inflammation and cell proliferation. Over the last few years there is a considerable rise in the number of journals and patents publication by different workers worldwide. Many pharmaceutical companies are focusing on GSK3beta as a therapeutic target for the treatment of disease conditions. The present review is focused on signalling pathways of different disease conditions where GSK3beta is implicated. In this review, we present a comprehensive map of GSK3beta signalling pathways in disease physiologies. Structural analysis of GSK3beta along with molecular modelling reports from numerous workers are reviewed in context of design and development of GSK3beta inhibitors. Patent landscape of the small molecule modulators is profiled. The chemo space for small molecule modulators extracted from public and proprietary Kinase Chembiobase for GSK3beta are discussed. Compounds in different clinical phases of discovery are analysed. The review ends with the overall status of this important therapeutic target and challenges in development of its modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Phukan
- Structure Directed Molecular Design, Jubilant Biosys Ltd, Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore, India
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29
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Chen JY, Cook MR, Pinchot SN, Kunnimalaiyaan M, Chen H. MG-132 inhibits carcinoid growth and alters the neuroendocrine phenotype. J Surg Res 2010; 158:15-9. [PMID: 19765735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2009.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2009] [Revised: 05/14/2009] [Accepted: 05/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carcinoid cancers are the most common neuroendocrine (NE) tumors, and limited treatment options exist. The inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta) has been shown to be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of carcinoid disease. In this study, we investigate the ability of MG-132, a proteasome inhibitor, to inhibit carcinoid growth, the neuroendocrine phenotype, and its association with GSK-3beta. MATERIALS AND METHODS Human pulmonary (NCI-H727) and gastrointestinal (BON) carcinoid cells were treated with MG-132 (0-4microM). Cellular growth was measured by the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Levels of total and phosphorylated GSK-3beta and the NE markers chromogranin A (CgA), Achaete-Scute complex-like 1 (ASCL1), as well as the apoptotic markers poly (ADP-ribose), polymerase (PARP), and cleaved caspase-3 were determined by Western blot. RESULTS Treating carcinoid cells with MG-132 resulted in growth inhibition, a dose-dependent inhibition of CgA and ASCL1, as well as an increase in the levels of cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase-3. Additionally, an increase in the level of phosphorylated GSK-3beta was observed. CONCLUSION MG-132 inhibits cellular growth and the neuroendocrine phenotype. This proteasome inhibitor warrants further preclinical investigation as a possible therapeutic strategy for intractable carcinoid disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-yu Chen
- Endocrine Surgery Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53792, USA.
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Auyeung KKW, Cho CH, Ko JKS. A novel anticancer effect of Astragalus saponins: Transcriptional activation of NSAID-activated gene. Int J Cancer 2009; 125:1082-91. [PMID: 19384947 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Astragalus membranaceus has been used to ameliorate the side effects of antineoplastic drugs because of its immunomodulating nature. We had recently demonstrated that total Astragalus saponins (AST) possess anticarcinogenic and proapoptotic properties in human colon cancer cells and tumor xenograft. In this study, we identified NSAID-activated gene (NAG-1) as a potential molecular target of AST. The growth-inhibitory and proapoptotic effects of AST were assessed in a panel of human cancer cell lines. Hoechst 33342 nuclear staining, Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide staining, Western immunoblotting, real-time PCR, luciferase reporter assay and electrophoretic mobility shift assay were conducted to determine the association of NAG-1 and related transcription factors with AST during its regulation of apoptotic activities. Moreover, the combined proapoptotic and NAG-1 promoting activities of AST and/or inhibitors of the PI3K-Akt pathway were also examined. AST caused overexpression of NAG-1, leading to PARP cleavage and apoptosis. The induction of NAG-1 promoter activity by the drug was associated with increased gene expression, in addition to prior increase in Egr-1 expression and DNA binding activity. AST-induced NAG-1 activation was intensified when PI3K inhibitor LY294002 or Akt inhibitor was co-treated and reversed by NAG-1 siRNA transfection. Nevertheless, the extent of NAG-1 induction could not be altered by the ERK inhibitor PD98059. Our results indicate that NAG-1 is a potential molecular target of AST in its antitumorigenic and proapoptotic actions, which would have additive effects when used along with PI3K-Akt inhibitors. The information obtained could facilitate future development of a novel target-specific chemotherapeutic agent with known molecular pathway.
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Johnson SM, Wang X, Evers BM. Triptolide inhibits proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells by inhibition of cell cycle regulators and cytokine receptors. J Surg Res 2009; 168:197-205. [PMID: 19922946 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2009] [Revised: 06/22/2009] [Accepted: 07/02/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phytochemicals are an important source of emerging preventive and therapeutic agents for cancer. Triptolide/PG490, an extract of the Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that also possesses anticancer activity. While its antiproliferative effects are well-established, the potential antimigratory effects of triptolide have not been characterized. MATERIAL AND METHODS Effects of triptolide on the proliferation and invasion of colon cancer cells and expression of cancer-related genes and proteins were assessed. RESULTS Triptolide potently inhibited HT29 and HCT116 colon cancer cell growth and reduced basal and stimulated HCT116 migration through collagen by 65% to 80%. Triptolide inhibited mRNA expression of the positive cell cycle regulatory genes c-myc, and A, B, C, and D-type cyclins in multiple colon cancer cell lines. Additionally, we show that triptolide treatment decreased expression of VEGF and COX-2, which promote cancer progression and invasion, and inhibited the expression of multiple cytokine receptors potentially involved in cell migration and cancer metastasis, including the thrombin receptor, CXCR4, TNF receptors, and TGF-β receptors. CONCLUSIONS Triptolide is a potent inhibitor of colon cancer proliferation and migration in vitro. The down-regulation of multiple cytokine receptors, in combination with inhibition of COX-2 and VEGF and positive cell cycle regulators, may contribute to the antimetastatic action of this herbal extract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Johnson
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Kim H, Rhee SH, Pothoulakis C, LaMont JT. Clostridium difficile toxin A binds colonocyte Src causing dephosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and paxillin. Exp Cell Res 2009; 315:3336-44. [PMID: 19481075 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2009.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2009] [Revised: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Clostridium difficile toxin A impairs tight junction function of colonocytes by glucosylation of Rho family proteins causing actin filament disaggregation and cell rounding. We investigated the effect of toxin A on focal contact formation by assessing its action on focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and the adapter protein paxillin. Exposure of NCM460 human colonocytes to toxin A for 1 h resulted in complete dephosphorylation of FAK and paxillin, while protein tyrosine phosphatase activity was reduced. Blockage of toxin A-associated glucosyltransferase activity by co-incubation with UDP-2'3' dialdehyde did not reduce toxin A-induced FAK and paxillin dephosphorylation. GST-pull down and in vitro kinase activity experiments demonstrated toxin A binding directly to the catalytic domain of Src with suppression of its kinase activity. Direct binding of toxin A to Src, independent of any effect on protein tyrosine phosphatase or Rho glucosylation, inhibits Src kinase activity followed by FAK/paxillin inactivation. These mechanisms may contribute to toxin A inhibition of colonocyte focal adhesion that occurs in human colonic epithelium exposed to toxin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Kim
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Science, Daejin University, Pochen, Kyungkido, Republic of Korea
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Sphingosine-1-phosphate protects intestinal epithelial cells from apoptosis through the Akt signaling pathway. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:499-510. [PMID: 18654850 PMCID: PMC2696985 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0393-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2008] [Accepted: 06/17/2008] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The regulation of apoptosis of intestinal mucosal cells is important in maintenance of normal intestinal physiology. SUMMARY Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has been shown to play a critical role in cellular protection to otherwise lethal stimuli in several nonintestinal tissues. METHODS The current study determines whether S1P protected normal intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) from apoptosis and whether Akt activation was the central pathway for this effect. RESULTS S1P demonstrated significantly reduced levels of apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)/cycloheximide (CHX). S1P induced increased levels of phosphorylated Akt and increased Akt activity, but did not affect total amounts of Akt. This activation of Akt was associated with decreased levels of both caspase-3 protein levels and of caspase-3 activity. Inactivation of Akt by treatment with the PI3K chemical inhibitor LY294002 or by overexpression of the dominant negative mutant of Akt (DNMAkt) prevented the protective effect of S1P on apoptosis. Additionally, silencing of the S1P-1 receptor by specific siRNA demonstrated a lesser decrease in apoptosis to S1P exposure. CONCLUSION These results indicate that S1P protects intestinal epithelial cells from apoptosis via an Akt-dependent pathway.
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Shant J, Cheng K, Marasa BS, Wang JY, Raufman JP. Akt-dependent NF-kappaB activation is required for bile acids to rescue colon cancer cells from stress-induced apoptosis. Exp Cell Res 2008; 315:432-50. [PMID: 19056378 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2008.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2008] [Revised: 10/02/2008] [Accepted: 11/06/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Conjugated secondary bile acids promote human colon cancer cell proliferation by activating EGF receptors (EGFR). We hypothesized that bile acid-induced EGFR activation also mediates cell survival by downstream Akt-regulated activation of NF-kappaB. Deoxycholyltaurine (DCT) treatment attenuated TNF-alpha-induced colon cancer cell apoptosis, and stimulated rapid and sustained NF-kappaB nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity (detected by NF-kappaB binding to an oligonucleotide consensus sequence and by activation of luciferase reporter gene constructs). Both DCT-induced NF-kappaB nuclear translocation and attenuation of TNF-alpha-stimulated apoptosis were dependent on EGFR activation. Inhibitors of nuclear translocation, proteosome activity, and IkappaBalpha kinase attenuated NF-kappaB transcriptional activity. Cell transfection with adenoviral vectors encoding a non-degradable IkappaBalpha 'super-repressor' blocked the actions of DCT on both NF-kappaB activation and TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis. Likewise, transfection with mutant akt and treatment with a chemical inhibitor of Akt attenuated effects of DCT on NF-kappaB transcriptional activity and TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis. Chemical inhibitors of Akt and NF-kappaB activation also attenuated DCT-induced rescue of H508 cells from ultraviolet radiation-induced apoptosis. Collectively, these observations indicate that, downstream of EGFR, bile acid-induced colon cancer cell survival is mediated by Akt-dependent NF-kappaB activation. These findings provide a mechanism whereby bile acids increase resistance of colon cancer to chemotherapy and radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasleen Shant
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA
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Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer accounts for 5%-10% of all thyroid cancers. The majority of medullary thyroid cancers are sporadic, but 20% of cases are a result of a germline mutation in the ret proto-oncogene. Hereditary medullary thyroid cancer can be seen as part of the multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2A or 2B or as part of familial medullary thyroid cancer. This article discusses the current methods available for the diagnosis and evaluation of a patient with suspected medullary thyroid cancer. The management of medullary thyroid cancer is predominantly surgical excision, consisting of a total thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection. The extent and timing of surgical excision are discussed. Systemic therapeutic options are limited for medullary thyroid cancer, but several therapeutic targets show promise for the development of new therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Sippel
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin 53792-7375, USA.
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Reuter S, Eifes S, Dicato M, Aggarwal BB, Diederich M. Modulation of anti-apoptotic and survival pathways by curcumin as a strategy to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2008; 76:1340-51. [PMID: 18755156 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2008.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2008] [Revised: 07/15/2008] [Accepted: 07/16/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis is a highly regulated mechanism by which cells undergo cell death in an active way. As one of the most challenging tasks concerning cancer is to induce apoptosis in malignant cells, researchers increasingly focus on natural products to modulate apoptotic signaling pathways. Curcumin, a natural compound isolated from the plant Curcuma longa, has chemopreventive properties, which are mainly due to its ability to arrest cell cycle and to induce apoptosis. This article reviews the main effects of curcumin on the different apoptotic signaling pathways involved in curcumin-induced apoptosis of cancer cells, including the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways, the NF-kappaB-mediated pathway as well as the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This review also focuses on the sensitization of cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis after curcumin treatment and shows that curcumin enhances the capacity to induce cell death of different chemotherapeutical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Reuter
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du Cancer, Hôpital Kirchberg, 9 rue Edward Steichen, L-2540 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
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Rowland KJ, Brubaker PL. Life in the crypt: a role for glucagon-like peptide-2? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2008; 288:63-70. [PMID: 18403107 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2007] [Revised: 01/31/2008] [Accepted: 02/25/2008] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial layer of the intestinal tract serves as a model to study the mechanisms regulating tissue renewal. Central to this process is the intestinal stem cell and, thus, both the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that modulate the function of these cells must be understood. Amongst the intrinsic regulators, both the canonical wnt and bone morphogenic protein (bmp) signaling pathways have been shown to be essential determinants of stem cell dynamics and intestinal homeostasis. The intestinotrophic hormone, glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), has also recently been demonstrated to exert a variety of effects on the intestinal crypt cells, including enhancement of the putative stem cell marker, musashi-1, as well as stimulating intestinal proliferation. As the GLP-2 receptor is not expressed by the crypt cells, these actions have been hypothesized to be mediated indirectly, through other gut peptides and/or growth factors. Of these, recent studies have demonstrated a requirement for insulin-like growth factor-1 in the proliferative effects of GLP-2, through a pathway that involves activation of the canonical wnt signaling pathway. This extrinsic pathway represents a novel mechanism by which intestinal stem cell dynamics may be regulated.
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Shaltouki A, Freer M, Mei Y, Weyman CM. Increased expression of the pro-apoptotic Bcl2 family member PUMA is required for mitochondrial release of cytochrome C and the apoptosis associated with skeletal myoblast differentiation. Apoptosis 2008; 12:2143-54. [PMID: 17879164 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-007-0135-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that when skeletal myoblasts are cultured in differentiation medium (DM), roughly 30% undergo caspase 3-dependent apoptosis rather than differentiation. Herein, we investigate the molecular mechanism responsible for the activation of caspase 3 and the ensuing apoptosis. When 23A2 myoblasts are cultured in DM, caspase 9 activity is increased and pharmacological abrogation of caspase 9 activation impairs caspase 3 activation and apoptosis. Further, we detect a time dependent release of mitochondrial cytochrome C into the cytosol in roughly 30% of myoblasts. Inclusion of cycloheximide inhibits the release of cytochrome C, the activation of caspase 9 and apoptosis. These data indicate that the mitochondrial pathway plays a role in this apoptotic process and that engagement of this pathway relies on de novo protein synthesis. Through RT-PCR and immunoblot analysis, we have determined that the expression level of the pro-apoptotic Bcl2 family member PUMA is elevated when 23A2 myoblasts are cultured in DM. Further, silencing of PUMA inhibits the release of cytochrome C and apoptosis. Signaling by the transcription factor p53 is not responsible for the increased level of PUMA. Finally, myoblasts rescued from apoptosis by either inhibition of elevated caspase 9 activity or silencing of PUMA are competent for differentiation. These results indicate a critical role for PUMA in the apoptosis associated with skeletal myoblast differentiation and that a p53-independent mechanism is responsible for the increased expression of PUMA in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atossa Shaltouki
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
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Larson SD, Li J, Chung DH, Mark Evers B. Molecular mechanisms contributing to glutamine-mediated intestinal cell survival. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2007; 293:G1262-71. [PMID: 17916648 PMCID: PMC2432018 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00254.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the bloodstream, is the preferred fuel source for enterocytes and plays a vital role in the maintenance of mucosal growth. The molecular mechanisms regulating the effects of glutamine on intestinal cell growth and survival are poorly understood. Here, we show that addition of glutamine (1 mmol/l) enhanced rat intestinal epithelial (RIE)-1 cell growth; conversely, glutamine deprivation increased apoptosis as noted by increased DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 activity. To delineate signaling pathways involved in the effects of glutamine on intestinal cells, we assessed activation of extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK), protein kinase D (PKD), and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, which are important pathways in cell growth and survival. Addition of glutamine activated ERK and PKD in RIE-1 cells after a period of glutamine starvation; inhibition of ERK, but not PKD, increased cell apoptosis. Conversely, glutamine starvation alone increased phosphorylated Akt; inhibition of Akt enhanced RIE-1 cell DNA fragmentation. The role of ERK was further delineated using RIE-1 cells stably transfected with an inducible Ras. Apoptosis was significantly increased following ERK inhibition, despite Ras activation. Taken together, these results identify a critical role for the ERK signaling pathways in glutamine-mediated intestinal homeostasis. Furthermore, activation of PI3K/Akt during periods of glutamine deprivation likely occurs as a protective mechanism to limit apoptosis associated with cellular stress. Importantly, our findings provide novel mechanistic insights into the antiapoptotic effects of glutamine in the intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D. Larson
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas,The Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Dai H. Chung
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas,The Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - B. Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas,The Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Kikuchi S, Nagai T, Kunitama M, Kirito K, Ozawa K, Komatsu N. Active FKHRL1 overcomes imatinib resistance in chronic myelogenous leukemia-derived cell lines via the production of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand. Cancer Sci 2007; 98:1949-58. [PMID: 17900262 PMCID: PMC11158645 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2007.00623.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2007] [Revised: 08/12/2007] [Accepted: 08/22/2007] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
FKHRL1 (also called FOXO3a) is a member of the Forkhead Box, class O (FOXO) subfamily of forkhead transcription factors and functions downstream of Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase as a phosphorylated inactive form in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). The Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib induces cell cycle arrest and subsequent apoptosis via the conversion of FKHRL1 from the phosphorylated inactive form to the dephosphorylated active form in CML-derived cell lines. In the present study, we examined whether active FKHRL1 can overcome resistance to imatinib. To this end, we generated a 4-hydroxytamoxifen-inducible active FKHRL1 (FKHRL1-TM; a triple mutant of FKHRL1 in which all three Akt phosphorylation sites have been mutated)-estrogen receptor fusion protein expression system in CML-derived imatinib-resistant cell lines. 4-Hydroxytamoxifen inhibited cell growth and cell cycle progression, and subsequently induced apoptosis, accompanied by upregulation of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Thus, active FKHRL1 antagonized deregulated proliferation and induced apoptosis in these cell lines. In addition, imatinib-resistant cells underwent apoptosis after transfection with full-length TRAIL cDNA. Collectively, our results suggest that active FKHRL1 can overcome imatinib resistance in CML cells, in part via TRAIL production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Kikuchi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi-ken 329-0498, Japan
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Wang Q, Zhou Y, Wang X, Chung DH, Evers BM. Regulation of PTEN expression in intestinal epithelial cells by c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase activation and nuclear factor-kappaB inhibition. Cancer Res 2007; 67:7773-81. [PMID: 17699782 PMCID: PMC2649758 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-07-0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor protein phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) plays an important role in intestinal cell proliferation and differentiation and tumor suppression by antagonizing phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. Despite its importance, the molecular mechanisms regulating PTEN expression are largely undefined. Here, we show that treatment of the colon cancer cell line HT29 with the differentiating agent sodium butyrate (NaBT) increased PTEN protein and mRNA expression and induced c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) activation. Inhibition of JNK by chemical or genetic methods attenuated NaBT-induced PTEN expression. In addition, our findings showed a cross-talk between nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) and JNK with respect to PTEN regulation. Overexpression of the NF-kappaB superrepressor increased PTEN expression and JNK activity, whereas overexpression of the p65 NF-kappaB subunit reduced both basal and NaBT-mediated JNK activation and PTEN expression. Moreover, we showed that overexpression of PTEN or treatment with NaBT increased expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27(kip1) in HT29 cells; this induction was attenuated by inhibition of PTEN or JNK expression or overexpression of p65. Finally, we show a role for PTEN in NaBT-mediated cell death and differentiation. Our findings suggest that the JNK/PTEN and NF-kappaB/PTEN pathways play a critical role in normal intestinal homeostasis and colon carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- QingDing Wang
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
| | - Yuning Zhou
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
| | - Xiaofu Wang
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
| | - Dai H. Chung
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
- Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
| | - B. Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
- Sealy Center for Cancer Cell Biology The University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, Texas
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Jin CY, Park C, Cheong J, Choi BT, Lee TH, Lee JD, Lee WH, Kim GY, Ryu CH, Choi YH. Genistein sensitizes TRAIL-resistant human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cells through activation of caspase-3. Cancer Lett 2007; 257:56-64. [PMID: 17689858 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2007.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2007] [Revised: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 06/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The cytotoxic effect of the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is limited in some cancer cells, including AGS gastric adenocarcinoma cells. However, treatment with TRAIL in combination with subtoxic concentrations of genistein sensitizes TRAIL-resistant AGS cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. Combined treatment with genistein and TRAIL-induced chromatin condensation and sub-G1 phase DNA content. These indicators of apoptosis are correlated with the activation of death receptors (DR5) and induction of caspase-3 activity, which results in the cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase. Both the cytotoxic effect and apoptotic characteristics induced by combined treatment were significantly inhibited by z-DEVD-fmk, a caspase-3 inhibitor, which demonstrates the important role of caspase-3 in the observed cytotoxic effect. These results indicate that caspase-3 is a key regulator of apoptosis in response to combined genistein and TRAIL in human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cells through the activation of DR5 and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yun Jin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 609-735, Republic of Korea
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Vigneswaran N, Baucum DC, Wu J, Lou Y, Bouquot J, Muller S, Zacharias W. Repression of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) but not its receptors during oral cancer progression. BMC Cancer 2007; 7:108. [PMID: 17592646 PMCID: PMC1924860 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-7-108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2007] [Accepted: 06/25/2007] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background TRAIL plays an important role in host immunosurveillance against tumor progression, as it induces apoptosis of tumor cells but not normal cells, and thus has great therapeutic potential for cancer treatment. TRAIL binds to two cell-death-inducing (DR4 and DR5) and two decoy (DcR1, and DcR2) receptors. Here, we compare the expression levels of TRAIL and its receptors in normal oral mucosa (NOM), oral premalignancies (OPM), and primary and metastatic oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) in order to characterize the changes in their expression patterns during OSCC initiation and progression. Methods DNA microarray, immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analyses were used to examine the expression levels of TRAIL and its receptors in oral epithelial cell lines and in archival tissues of NOM, OPM, primary and metastatic OSCC. Apoptotic rates of tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in OSCC specimens were determined by cleaved caspase 3 immunohistochemistry. Results Normal oral epithelia constitutively expressed TRAIL, but expression was progressively lost in OPM and OSCC. Reduction in DcR2 expression levels was noted frequently in OPM and OSCC compared to respective patient-matched uninvolved oral mucosa. OSCC frequently expressed DR4, DR5 and DcR1 but less frequently DcR2. Expression levels of DR4, DR5 and DcR1 receptors were not significantly altered in OPM, primary OSCC and metastatic OSCC compared to patient-matched normal oral mucosa. Expression of proapoptotic TRAIL-receptors DR4 and DR5 in OSCC seemed to depend, at least in part, on whether or not these receptors were expressed in their parental oral epithelia. High DR5 expression in primary OSCC correlated significantly with larger tumor size. There was no significant association between TRAIL-R expression and OSSC histology grade, nodal status or apoptosis rates of tumor cells and TIL. Conclusion Loss of TRAIL expression is an early event during oral carcinogenesis and may be involved in dysregulation of apoptosis and contribute to the molecular carcinogenesis of OSCC. Differential expressions of TRAIL receptors in OSCC do not appear to play a crucial role in their apoptotic rate or metastatic progression.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Biopsy, Needle
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/physiopathology
- Case-Control Studies
- Cell Death/genetics
- Cell Death/physiology
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Disease Progression
- Down-Regulation
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/physiology
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Mouth Mucosa/metabolism
- Mouth Mucosa/pathology
- Mouth Neoplasms/genetics
- Mouth Neoplasms/pathology
- Mouth Neoplasms/physiopathology
- Prognosis
- Receptors, TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand/genetics
- Receptors, TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand/metabolism
- Reference Values
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand/genetics
- TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand/metabolism
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadarajah Vigneswaran
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Darryl C Baucum
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jean Wu
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Yahuan Lou
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jerry Bouquot
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Susan Muller
- Departments of Pathology and Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Wolfgang Zacharias
- Departments of Medicine, Pharmacology & Toxicology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
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Keese M, Offterdinger M, Tischer C, Girod A, Lommerse PHM, Yagublu V, Magdeburg R, Bastiaens PIH. Quantitative imaging of apoptosis commitment in colorectal tumor cells. Differentiation 2007; 75:809-18. [PMID: 17511782 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-0436.2007.00186.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We have studied caspase-3 activation by combined DNA damage induction and EGFR kinase inhibition in order to identify potential EGFR-mediated survival signals conferring resistance to apoptosis in human colorectal tumor cells. The onset of apoptosis was microscopically imaged with a newly developed caspase-3 substrate sensor based on EGFP and tHcred1, enabling us to monitor caspase-3 activation in cells by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy or fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Both optical approaches provide parameters quantitatively reporting the ratio between cleaved and uncleaved sensor, thereby facilitating the comparison of caspase-3 activation between different cells. Using these methods, we show that EGFR kinase inhibitors sensitize colorectal SW-480 tumor cells for 5-fluorouracil-induced apoptosis, indicating that EGFR-mediated survival signaling contributes to apoptosis resistance via its intrinsic kinase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Keese
- Chirurgische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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45
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Gutermann A, Mayer E, von Dehn-Rothfelser K, Breidenstein C, Weber M, Muench M, Gungor D, Suehnel J, Moebius U, Lechmann M. Efficacy of oncolytic herpesvirus NV1020 can be enhanced by combination with chemotherapeutics in colon carcinoma cells. Hum Gene Ther 2007; 17:1241-53. [PMID: 17117895 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2006.17.1241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
NV1020, an oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1, can destroy colon cancer cells by selectively replicating within these cells, while sparing normal cells. NV1020 is currently under investigation in a clinical phase I/II trial as an agent for the treatment of colon cancer liver metastases, in combination with conventional chemotherapeutic agents such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), SN38 (the active metabolite of irinotecan), and oxaliplatin. To study the synergy of NV1020 and chemotherapy, cytotoxicity and viral replication were evaluated in vitro by treating various human and murine colon carcinoma cell lines, using a colorimetric viability assay, a clonogenic assay, and a plaque-forming assay. In vivo experiments, using a subcutaneous syngeneic CT-26 tumor model in BALB/c mice, were performed to determine the efficacy of combination therapy. In vitro studies showed that the efficacy of NV1020 on human colon carcinoma cell lines HT-29, WiDr, and HCT-116 was additively or synergistically enhanced in combination with 5-FU, SN38, or oxaliplatin. The sequence of application was not important and effects were still apparent after a 21-day incubation period. Three intra-tumoral treatments with NV1020 (1 x 10(7) plaque-forming units), followed by three subcutaneous treatments with 5-FU (50 mg/kg), resulted in substantially higher inhibition of tumor growth and prolongation of survival compared with monotherapies (NV1020/5-FU vs. NV1020, p = 0.027). On WiDr cells, reduced replication of NV1020, in combination with 5-FU, indicated that additive and synergistic effects of combination therapy must be independent from viral replication. These results suggest that NV1020, in combination with chemotherapy, is a promising therapy for treating patients with metastatic colorectal cancer of the liver. We hypothesize that infection of cells with NV1020 sensitizes the infected cells for the cytotoxic effect of the chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Gutermann
- Preclinical Development, MediGene, 82152 Martinsried/Planegg, Germany.
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46
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Ding Q, He X, Hsu JM, Xia W, Chen CT, Li LY, Lee DF, Liu JC, Zhong Q, Wang X, Hung MC. Degradation of Mcl-1 by beta-TrCP mediates glycogen synthase kinase 3-induced tumor suppression and chemosensitization. Mol Cell Biol 2007; 27:4006-17. [PMID: 17387146 PMCID: PMC1900029 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00620-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is critical for embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and tumorigenesis and is determined largely by the Bcl-2 family of antiapoptotic and prosurvival regulators. Here, we report that glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) was required for Mcl-1 degradation, and we identified a novel mechanism for proteasome-mediated Mcl-1 turnover in which GSK-3beta associates with and phosphorylates Mcl-1 at one consensus motif ((155)STDG(159)SLPS(163)T; phosphorylation sites are in italics), which will lead to the association of Mcl-1 with the E3 ligase beta-TrCP, and beta-TrCP then facilitates the ubiquitination and degradation of phosphorylated Mcl-1. A variant of Mcl-1 (Mcl-1-3A), which abolishes the phosphorylations by GSK-3beta and then cannot be ubiquitinated by beta-TrCP, is much more stable than wild-type Mcl-1 and able to block the proapoptotic function of GSK-3beta and enhance chemoresistance. Our results indicate that the turnover of Mcl-1 by beta-TrCP is an essential mechanism for GSK-3beta-induced apoptosis and contributes to GSK-3beta-mediated tumor suppression and chemosensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Ding
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Kunnimalaiyaan M, Vaccaro AM, Ndiaye MA, Chen H. Inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, a downstream target of the raf-1 pathway, is associated with growth suppression in medullary thyroid cancer cells. Mol Cancer Ther 2007; 6:1151-8. [PMID: 17363508 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-06-0665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta) is an important regulator of cell proliferation and survival. Conflicting observations have been reported regarding the regulation of GSK-3beta and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) in cancer cells. In this study, we found that raf-1 activation in human medullary thyroid cancer cells, TT cells, resulted in phosphorylation of GSK-3beta. Inactivation of GSK-3beta in TT cells with well-known GSK-3beta inhibitors such as lithium chloride (LiCl) and SB216763 is associated with both growth suppression and a significant decrease in neuroendocrine markers such as human achaete-scute complex-like 1 and chromogranin A. Growth inhibition by GSK-3beta inactivation was found to be associated with cell cycle arrest due to an increase in the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors such as p21, p27, and p15. Additionally, LiCl-treated TT xenograft mice had a significant reduction in tumor volume compared with those treated with control. For the first time, we show that GSK-3beta is a key downstream target of the raf-1 pathway in TT cells. Also, our results show that inactivation of GSK-3beta alone is sufficient to inhibit the growth of TT cells both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthusamy Kunnimalaiyaan
- University of Wisconsin, H4/750 Clinical Science Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792, USA
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Kappes A, Vaccaro A, Kunnimalaiyaan M, Chen H. Lithium ions: a novel treatment for pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas. Surgery 2007; 141:161-5; discussion 165. [PMID: 17263970 PMCID: PMC1945109 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2006.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Operative resection is the only curative treatment for patients with pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas, and other catecholamine-producing neoplasms. Activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK3beta) is thought to promote tumor growth and neuroendocrine (NE) peptide secretion in NE neoplasms. Thus, we hypothesized that inhibition of this signaling pathway with lithium chloride (LiCl), a well-known GSK3beta inhibitor, could be a potential therapeutic strategy to control tumor growth and hormone production. METHODS Pheochromocytoma PC-12 cells were treated with varying concentrations of LiCl (0 to 30 mM). Levels of active and inactive GSK3beta and NE peptides chromogranin A (CgA) and Mash1 were determined by Western blot. Cellular growth was measured by MTT cell-proliferation assay. RESULTS At baseline, PC-12 cells had increased active GSK3beta signaling. Treatment of PC-12 cells with increasing dosages of LiCl resulted in dose-dependent inhibition of GSK3beta. Importantly, LiCl inhibited pheochromocytoma cellular proliferation significantly. Furthermore, inhibition of GSK3beta by LiCl was associated with marked suppression of CgA and Mash1 levels. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that GSK3beta inhibition may be a novel strategy to treat pheochromocytoma and other catecholamine-producing neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Kappes
- Department of Surgery, Endocrine Surgery Research Laboratories, Section of Endocrine Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA
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49
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O’Flaherty J, Mei Y, Freer M, Weyman CM. Signaling through the TRAIL receptor DR5/FADD pathway plays a role in the apoptosis associated with skeletal myoblast differentiation. Apoptosis 2007; 11:2103-13. [PMID: 17041756 PMCID: PMC2782111 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-006-0196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis rather than differentiation is a physiological process during myogenesis and muscle regeneration. When cultured myoblasts were induced to differentiate, we detected an increase in caspase 8 activity. Pharmacological inhibition of caspase 8 activity decreased apoptosis. Expression of a dominant-negative mutant of the adapter protein FADD also abrogated apoptosis, implicating a death ligand pathway. Treatment with TRAIL, but not Fas, induced apoptosis in these myoblasts. Accordingly, treatment with a soluble TRAIL decoy receptor or expression of a dominant-negative mutant of the TRAIL receptor DR5 abrogated apoptosis. While TRAIL expression levels remained unaltered in apoptotic myoblasts, DR5 expression levels increased. Finally, we also detected a reduction in FLIP, a death-receptor effector protein and caspase 8 competitive inhibitor, to undetectable levels in apoptotic myoblasts. Thus, our data demonstrate an important role for the TRAIL/DR5/FADD/caspase 8 pathway in the apoptosis associated with skeletal myoblast differentiation. Identifying the functional apoptotic pathways in skeletal myoblasts may prove useful in minimizing the myoblast apoptosis that contributes pathologically to a variety of diseases and in minimizing the apoptosis of transplanted myoblasts to treat these and other disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. O’Flaherty
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
| | - Y. Mei
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
| | - M. Freer
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
| | - C. M. Weyman
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
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50
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Xu J, Zhou JY, Tainsky MA, Wu GS. Evidence that tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand induction by 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine sensitizes human breast cancer cells to adriamycin. Cancer Res 2007; 67:1203-11. [PMID: 17283156 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-2310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-CdR) inhibits DNA methyltransferase activity and sensitizes cancer cells to chemotherapy, but the mechanisms of its sensitization are not fully understood. Here, we show that 5-aza-CdR induces tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) in the human breast cancer MDA-231 cells. Induction of TRAIL by 5-aza-CdR correlated with inactivation of Akt. Furthermore, we show that overexpression of the active form of Akt by adenovirus infection or inhibition of the Akt downstream target glycogen synthase kinase 3 by its pharmacologic inhibitors abolishes TRAIL induction by 5-aza-CdR. Importantly, we show that the combined treatment of breast cancer cells with 5-aza-CdR and Adriamycin significantly increases apoptotic cell death compared with the treatment with either agent alone. Moreover, the combined treatment activated both death receptor and mitochondrial apoptotic pathways, whereas Adriamycin alone activated only the mitochondrial pathway while 5-aza-CdR failed to activate either. More importantly, down-regulation of TRAIL by small interference RNA silencing decreased 5-aza-CdR-mediated Adriamycin-induced caspase activation and apoptosis, thus conferring Adriamycin resistance. Taken together, our results suggest that induction of TRAIL by 5-aza-CdR is critical for enhancing chemosensitivity of breast cancer cells to Adriamycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Program in Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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