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Chen H, You R, Guo J, Zhou W, Chew G, Devapragash N, Loh JZ, Gesualdo L, Li Y, Jiang Y, Tan ELS, Chen S, Pontrelli P, Pesce F, Behmoaras J, Zhang A, Petretto E. WWP2 Regulates Renal Fibrosis and the Metabolic Reprogramming of Profibrotic Myofibroblasts. J Am Soc Nephrol 2024; 35:696-718. [PMID: 38502123 PMCID: PMC11164121 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Points WWP2 expression is elevated in the tubulointerstitium of fibrotic kidneys and contributes to CKD pathogenesis and progression. WWP2 uncouples the profibrotic activation and cell proliferation in renal myofibroblasts. WWP2 controls mitochondrial respiration in renal myofibroblasts through the metabolic regulator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha. Background Renal fibrosis is a common pathologic end point in CKD that is challenging to reverse, and myofibroblasts are responsible for the accumulation of a fibrillar collagen–rich extracellular matrix. Recent studies have unveiled myofibroblasts' diversity in proliferative and fibrotic characteristics, which are linked to different metabolic states. We previously demonstrated the regulation of extracellular matrix genes and tissue fibrosis by WWP2, a multifunctional E3 ubiquitin–protein ligase. Here, we investigate WWP2 in renal fibrosis and in the metabolic reprograming of myofibroblasts in CKD. Methods We used kidney samples from patients with CKD and WWP2 -null kidney disease mice models and leveraged single-cell RNA sequencing analysis to detail the cell-specific regulation of WWP2 in fibrotic kidneys. Experiments in primary cultured myofibroblasts by bulk-RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing, metabolomics, and cellular metabolism assays were used to study the metabolic regulation of WWP2 and its downstream signaling. Results The tubulointerstitial expression of WWP2 was associated with fibrotic progression in patients with CKD and in murine kidney disease models. WWP2 deficiency promoted myofibroblast proliferation and halted profibrotic activation, reducing the severity of renal fibrosis in vivo . In renal myofibroblasts, WWP2 deficiency increased fatty acid oxidation and activated the pentose phosphate pathway, boosting mitochondrial respiration at the expense of glycolysis. WWP2 suppressed the transcription of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), a metabolic mediator of fibrotic response, and pharmacologic inhibition of PGC-1α partially abrogated the protective effects of WWP2 deficiency on myofibroblasts. Conclusions WWP2 regulates the metabolic reprogramming of profibrotic myofibroblasts by a WWP2-PGC-1α axis, and WWP2 deficiency protects against renal fibrosis in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Chen
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Ran You
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gabriel Chew
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Nithya Devapragash
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Jui Zhi Loh
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Loreto Gesualdo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Yanwei Li
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuteng Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Elisabeth Li Sa Tan
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- School of Science, Institute for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Paola Pontrelli
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pesce
- Division of Renal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina—Gemelli Isola, Rome, Italy
| | - Jacques Behmoaras
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aihua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Enrico Petretto
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- School of Science, Institute for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Wang Y, Peng J, Yang D, Xing Z, Jiang B, Ding X, Jiang C, Ouyang B, Su L. From metabolism to malignancy: the multifaceted role of PGC1α in cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1383809. [PMID: 38774408 PMCID: PMC11106418 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1383809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
PGC1α, a central player in mitochondrial biology, holds a complex role in the metabolic shifts seen in cancer cells. While its dysregulation is common across major cancers, its impact varies. In some cases, downregulation promotes aerobic glycolysis and progression, whereas in others, overexpression escalates respiration and aggression. PGC1α's interactions with distinct signaling pathways and transcription factors further diversify its roles, often in a tissue-specific manner. Understanding these multifaceted functions could unlock innovative therapeutic strategies. However, challenges exist in managing the metabolic adaptability of cancer cells and refining PGC1α-targeted approaches. This review aims to collate and present the current knowledge on the expression patterns, regulators, binding partners, and roles of PGC1α in diverse cancers. We examined PGC1α's tissue-specific functions and elucidated its dual nature as both a potential tumor suppressor and an oncogenic collaborator. In cancers where PGC1α is tumor-suppressive, reinstating its levels could halt cell proliferation and invasion, and make the cells more receptive to chemotherapy. In cancers where the opposite is true, halting PGC1α's upregulation can be beneficial as it promotes oxidative phosphorylation, allows cancer cells to adapt to stress, and promotes a more aggressive cancer phenotype. Thus, to target PGC1α effectively, understanding its nuanced role in each cancer subtype is indispensable. This can pave the way for significant strides in the field of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Surgery, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianing Peng
- Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dengyuan Yang
- Department of Surgery, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhongjie Xing
- Department of Surgery, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xu Ding
- Department of Surgery, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Chaoyu Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bing Ouyang
- Department of Surgery, Nanjing Central Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Su
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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3
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Cheng YW, Lee JH, Chang CH, Tseng TT, Chai CY, Lieu AS, Kwan AL. High PGC-1α Expression as a Poor Prognostic Indicator in Intracranial Glioma. Biomedicines 2024; 12:979. [PMID: 38790941 PMCID: PMC11117502 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12050979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors in adults. Despite multidisciplinary treatment approaches, the survival rates for patients with malignant glioma have only improved marginally, and few prognostic biomarkers have been identified. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) is a crucial regulator of cancer metabolism, playing a vital role in cancer cell adaptation to fluctuating energy demands. In this study, the clinicopathological roles of PGC-1α in gliomas were evaluated. Employing immunohistochemistry, cell culture, siRNA transfection, cell viability assays, western blot analyses, and in vitro and in vivo invasion and migration assays, we explored the functions of PGC-1α in glioma progression. High PGC-1α expression was significantly associated with an advanced pathological stage in patients with glioma and with poorer overall survival. The downregulation of PGC-1α inhibited glioma cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and altered the expression of oncogenic markers. These results conclusively demonstrated that PGC-1α plays a critical role in maintaining the malignant phenotype of glioma cells and indicated that targeting PGC-1α could be an effective strategy to curb glioma progression and improve patient survival outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wen Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Jia-Hau Lee
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Chih-Hui Chang
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (C.-H.C.); (T.-T.T.)
| | - Tzu-Ting Tseng
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (C.-H.C.); (T.-T.T.)
| | - Chee-Yin Chai
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Ann-Shung Lieu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (C.-H.C.); (T.-T.T.)
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Aij-Lie Kwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (C.-H.C.); (T.-T.T.)
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 23806, USA
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Marrone L, Romano S, Malasomma C, Di Giacomo V, Cerullo A, Abate R, Vecchione MA, Fratantonio D, Romano MF. Metabolic vulnerability of cancer stem cells and their niche. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1375993. [PMID: 38659591 PMCID: PMC11039812 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1375993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) are the leading cause of the failure of anti-tumor treatments. These aggressive cancer cells are preserved and sustained by adjacent cells forming a specialized microenvironment, termed niche, among which tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are critical players. The cycle of tricarboxylic acids, fatty acid oxidation path, and electron transport chain have been proven to play central roles in the development and maintenance of CSCs and TAMs. By improving their oxidative metabolism, cancer cells are able to extract more energy from nutrients, which allows them to survive in nutritionally defective environments. Because mitochondria are crucial bioenergetic hubs and sites of these metabolic pathways, major hopes are posed for drugs targeting mitochondria. A wide range of medications targeting mitochondria, electron transport chain complexes, or oxidative enzymes are currently investigated in phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials against hard-to-treat tumors. This review article aims to highlight recent literature on the metabolic adaptations of CSCs and their supporting macrophages. A focus is provided on the resistance and dormancy behaviors that give CSCs a selection advantage and quiescence capacity in particularly hostile microenvironments and the role of TAMs in supporting these attitudes. The article also describes medicaments that have demonstrated a robust ability to disrupt core oxidative metabolism in preclinical cancer studies and are currently being tested in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marrone
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Malasomma
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Di Giacomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Cerullo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosetta Abate
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Deborah Fratantonio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University Giuseppe Degennaro, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Fiammetta Romano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Gao D, Zhou Q, Hou D, Zhang X, Ge Y, Zhu Q, Yin J, Qi X, Liu Y, Lou M, Zhou L, Bi Y. A novel peroxisome-related gene signature predicts clinical prognosis and is associated with immune microenvironment in low-grade glioma. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16874. [PMID: 38406287 PMCID: PMC10885797 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Low-grade glioma (LGG), a common primary tumor, mainly originates from astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. Increasing evidence has shown that peroxisomes function in the regulation of tumorigenesis and development of cancer. However, the prognostic value of peroxisome-related genes (PRGs) in LGG has not been reported. Therefore, it is necessary to construct a prognostic risk model for LGG patients based on the expression profiles of peroxisome-related genes. Our study mainly concentrated on developing a peroxisome-related gene signature for overall survival (OS) prediction in LGG patients. First, according to these peroxisome-related genes, all LGG patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database could be divided into two subtypes. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to find prognostic peroxisome-related genes in TCGA_LGG dataset, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analysis was employed to establish a 14-gene signature. The risk score based on the signature was positively associated with unfavorable prognosis. Then, multivariate Cox regression incorporating additional clinical characteristics showed that the 14-gene signature was an independent predictor of LGG. Time-dependent ROC curves revealed good performance of this prognostic signature in LGG patients. The performance about predicting OS of LGG was validated using the GSE107850 dataset derived from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Furethermore, we constructed a nomogram model based on the gene signature and age, which showed a better prognostic power. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encylopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses showed that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction and phagosome were enriched and that the immune status was decreased in the high-risk group. Finally, cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) were used to detect cell proliferation of U251 and A172 cells. Inhibition of ATAD1 (ATPase family AAA domain-containing 1) and ACBD5 (Acyl-CoA binding-domain-containing-5) expression led to significant inhibition of U251 and A172 cell proliferation. Flow cytometry detection showed that ATAD1 and ACBD5 could induce apoptosis of U251 and A172 cells. Therefore, through bioinformatics methods and cell experiments, our study developed a new peroxisome-related gene signature that migh t help improve personalized OS prediction in LGG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Gao
- Oncology and Hematology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiangyi Zhou
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Dianqi Hou
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhang
- Oncology and Hematology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiqin Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiading Branch of Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingwei Zhu
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yin
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangqian Qi
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaohua Liu
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Meiqing Lou
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Songjiang District Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunke Bi
- Neurosurgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
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6
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Wang J, Lou L, Li D, Wang Y, Jia X, Hao X, Liu W, Li Y, Wu W, Hou L, Cui J. Expression, clinicopathological significance, and prognostic potential of AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM in astrocytomas. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2023; 83:11-19. [PMID: 37952116 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlad094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a sensor of energy status that maintains cellular energy homeostasis. Activation of AMPK enhances the expression of proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC1-α) and subsequently activates mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) to regulate mitochondrial oxidative respiratory function. The possible functions of AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM and their interactions in astrocytomas are not known. Here, the levels, clinicopathological characteristics, and prognostic potential of AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM expression levels in astrocytomas were evaluated. The results showed that levels of AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM expression was increased in astrocytomas. Strong correlations were observed between AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM expression in patients with astrocytomas. The analysis indicated that the levels of AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and TFAM were associated with the survival. AMPK levels, tumor grade, and age were independent prognostic factors predicting poor outcomes in patients with astrocytoma. Together, these results indicate that these 4 targets may play a crucial role in the progression and prognosis of human astrocytomas and that AMPK may represent a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lei Lou
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xin Jia
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xue Hao
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Weina Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenxin Wu
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lianguo Hou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Key Laboratory of Neurobiology and Vascular Biology, China Administration of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jinfeng Cui
- Department of Pathology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Liu Y, Huang N, Qiao X, Gu Z, Wu Y, Li J, Wu C, Li B, Li L. Knockdown of PGC1α suppresses dysplastic oral keratinocytes proliferation through reprogramming energy metabolism. Int J Oral Sci 2023; 15:37. [PMID: 37661238 PMCID: PMC10475463 DOI: 10.1038/s41368-023-00242-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) are precursors of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Deregulated cellular energy metabolism is a critical hallmark of cancer cells. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC1α) plays vital role in mitochondrial energy metabolism. However, the molecular mechanism of PGC1α on OPMDs progression is less unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of knockdown PGC1α on human dysplastic oral keratinocytes (DOKs) comprehensively, including cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, xenograft tumor, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), mitochondrial electron transport chain complexes (ETC), reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), and glucose uptake. We found that knockdown PGC1α significantly inhibited the proliferation of DOKs in vitro and tumor growth in vivo, induced S-phase arrest, and suppressed PI3K/Akt signaling pathway without affecting cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, downregulated of PGC1α decreased mtDNA, ETC, and OCR, while enhancing ROS, glucose uptake, ECAR, and glycolysis by regulating lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA). Moreover, SR18292 (an inhibitor of PGC1α) induced oxidative phosphorylation dysfunction of DOKs and declined DOK xenograft tumor progression. Thus, our work suggests that PGC1α plays a crucial role in cell proliferation by reprograming energy metabolism and interfering with energy metabolism, acting as a potential therapeutic target for OPMDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunkun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nengwen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianghe Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyu Gu
- Department of Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, Hospital of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yongzhi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinjin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengzhou Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Longjiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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8
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Fan M, Shi Y, Zhao J, Li L. Cancer stem cell fate determination: mito-nuclear communication. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:159. [PMID: 37370081 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01160-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be responsible for tumor recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, clarification of the mechanisms involved in CSC stemness maintenance and cell fate determination would provide a new strategy for cancer therapy. Unregulated cellular energetics has been accepted as one of the hallmarks of cancer cells, but recent studies have revealed that mitochondrial metabolism can also actively determine CSC fate by affecting nuclear stemness gene expression. Herein, from the perspective of mito-nuclear communication, we review recent progress on the influence of mitochondria on CSC potential from four aspects: metabolism, dynamics, mitochondrial homeostasis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchen Fan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College of Yan'an University, Yanan, 716000, China
- Department of Cell Biology, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Cell Biology, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jumei Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College of Yan'an University, Yanan, 716000, China.
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Cell Biology, National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Song Y, Wang M, Zhao S, Tian Y, Zhang C. Matrine promotes mitochondrial biosynthesis and reduces oxidative stress in experimental optic neuritis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:936632. [PMID: 36238552 PMCID: PMC9552203 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.936632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Optic neuritis (ON), characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve and apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), is one of the leading causes of blindness in patients. Given that RGC, as an energy-intensive cell, is vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction, improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress could protect these cells. Matrine (MAT), an alkaloid derived from Sophoraflavescens, has been shown to regulate immunity and protect neurons in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis and ON. However, the protective mechanism of MAT on RGCs is largely unknown. In this study, we show that MAT treatment significantly reduced the degree of inflammatory infiltration and demyelination of the optic nerve and increased the survival rate of RGCs. The expression of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a member of an evolutionarily conserved gene family (sirtuins), was upregulated, as well as its downstream molecules Nrf2 and PGC-1α. The percentage of TOMM20-positive cells was also increased remarkably in RGCs after MAT treatment. Thus, our results indicate that MAT protects RGCs from apoptosis, at least in part, by activating SIRT1 to regulate PGC-1α and Nrf2, which, together, promote mitochondrial biosynthesis and reduce the oxidative stress of RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mengru Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suyan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjie Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yanjie Tian,
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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10
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Rupprecht A, Theisen U, Wendt F, Frank M, Hinz B. The Combination of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol Suppresses Mitochondrial Respiration of Human Glioblastoma Cells via Downregulation of Specific Respiratory Chain Proteins. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133129. [PMID: 35804909 PMCID: PMC9265124 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid from Cannabis sativa L. that exhibits no psychoactivity and, like the psychoactive cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), shows anticancer effects in preclinical cell and animal models. Previous studies have indicated a stronger cancer-targeting effect when THC and CBD are combined. Here, we investigated how the combination of THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio affects glioblastoma cell survival. The compounds were found to synergistically enhance cell death, which was attributed to mitochondrial damage and disruption of energy metabolism. A detailed look at the mitochondrial electron transfer chain showed that THC/CBD selectively decreased certain subunits of complexes I and IV. These data highlight the fundamental changes in cellular energy metabolism when cancer cells are exposed to a mixture of cannabinoids and underscore the potential of combining cannabinoids in cancer treatment. Abstract Phytocannabinoids represent a promising approach in glioblastoma therapy. Previous work has shown that a combined treatment of glioblastoma cells with submaximal effective concentrations of psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) greatly increases cell death. In the present work, the glioblastoma cell lines U251MG and U138MG were used to investigate whether the combination of THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio is associated with a disruption of cellular energy metabolism, and whether this is caused by affecting mitochondrial respiration. Here, the combined administration of THC and CBD (2.5 µM each) led to an inhibition of oxygen consumption rate and energy metabolism. These effects were accompanied by morphological changes to the mitochondria, a release of mitochondrial cytochrome c into the cytosol and a marked reduction in subunits of electron transport chain complexes I (NDUFA9, NDUFB8) and IV (COX2, COX4). Experiments with receptor antagonists and inhibitors showed that the degradation of NDUFA9 occurred independently of the activation of the cannabinoid receptors CB1, CB2 and TRPV1 and of usual degradation processes mediated via autophagy or the proteasomal system. In summary, the results describe a previously unknown mitochondria-targeting mechanism behind the toxic effect of THC and CBD on glioblastoma cells that should be considered in future cancer therapy, especially in combination strategies with other chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Rupprecht
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Centre, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (U.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Ulrike Theisen
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Centre, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (U.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Franziska Wendt
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Centre, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (U.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Marcus Frank
- Electron Microscopy Centre, Rostock University Medical Centre, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
- Department Life, Light and Matter, University of Rostock, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Centre, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (A.R.); (U.T.); (F.W.)
- Correspondence:
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11
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Masui K, Cavenee WK, Mischel PS, Shibata N. The metabolomic landscape plays a critical role in glioma oncogenesis. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:1555-1563. [PMID: 35271755 PMCID: PMC9128185 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells depend on metabolic reprogramming for survival, undergoing profound shifts in nutrient sensing, nutrient uptake and flux through anabolic pathways, in order to drive nucleotide, lipid, and protein synthesis and provide key intermediates needed for those pathways. Although metabolic enzymes themselves can be mutated, including to generate oncometabolites, this is a relatively rare event in cancer. Usually, gene amplification, overexpression, and/or downstream signal transduction upregulate rate‐limiting metabolic enzymes and limit feedback loops, to drive persistent tumor growth. Recent molecular‐genetic advances have revealed discrete links between oncogenotypes and the resultant metabolic phenotypes. However, more comprehensive approaches are needed to unravel the dynamic spatio‐temporal regulatory map of enzymes and metabolites that enable cancer cells to adapt to their microenvironment to maximize tumor growth. Proteomic and metabolomic analyses are powerful tools for analyzing a repertoire of metabolic enzymes as well as intermediary metabolites, and in conjunction with other omics approaches could provide critical information in this regard. Here, we provide an overview of cancer metabolism, especially from an omics perspective and with a particular focus on the genomically well characterized malignant brain tumor, glioblastoma. We further discuss how metabolomics could be leveraged to improve the management of patients, by linking cancer cell genotype, epigenotype, and phenotype through metabolic reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Masui
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Webster K Cavenee
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Paul S Mischel
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Noriyuki Shibata
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
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12
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Muller CJF, Joubert E, Chellan N, Miura Y, Yagasaki K. New Insights into the Efficacy of Aspalathin and Other Related Phytochemicals in Type 2 Diabetes-A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010356. [PMID: 35008779 PMCID: PMC8745648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the pursuit of bioactive phytochemicals as a therapeutic strategy to manage metabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes (T2D), aspalathin, C-glucosyl dihydrochalcone from rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), has received much attention, along with its C-glucosyl flavone derivatives and phlorizin, the apple O-glucosyl dihydrochalcone well-known for its antidiabetic properties. We provided context for dietary exposure by highlighting dietary sources, compound stability during processing, bioavailability and microbial biotransformation. The review covered the role of these compounds in attenuating insulin resistance and enhancing glucose metabolism, alleviating gut dysbiosis and associated oxidative stress and inflammation, and hyperuricemia associated with T2D, focusing largely on the literature of the past 5 years. A key focus of this review was on emerging targets in the management of T2D, as highlighted in the recent literature, including enhancing of the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate 1 signaling via protein tyrosine phosphatase inhibition, increasing glycolysis with suppression of gluconeogenesis by sirtuin modulation, and reducing renal glucose reabsorption via sodium-glucose co-transporter 2. We conclude that biotransformation in the gut is most likely responsible for enhancing therapeutic effects observed for the C-glycosyl parent compounds, including aspalathin, and that these compounds and their derivatives have the potential to regulate multiple factors associated with the development and progression of T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christo J. F. Muller
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP), South African Medical Research Council (MRC), Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.J.F.M.); (N.C.)
- Centre for Cardiometabolic Research in Africa, Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth Joubert
- Plant Bioactives Group, Post-Harvest & Agro-Processing Technologies, Agricultural Research Council, Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch 7599, South Africa;
- Department of Food Science, Stellenbosch University, Matieland 7602, South Africa
| | - Nireshni Chellan
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP), South African Medical Research Council (MRC), Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.J.F.M.); (N.C.)
- Centre for Cardiometabolic Research in Africa, Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Yutaka Miura
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan;
| | - Kazumi Yagasaki
- Division of Applied Biological Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan;
- Correspondence:
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13
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Activating transcription factor 4 mediates adaptation of human glioblastoma cells to hypoxia and temozolomide. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14161. [PMID: 34239013 PMCID: PMC8266821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93663-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrated stress response (ISR) is a central cellular adaptive program that is activated by diverse stressors including ER stress, hypoxia and nutrient deprivation to orchestrate responses via activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). We hypothesized that ATF4 is essential for the adaptation of human glioblastoma (GB) cells to the conditions of the tumor microenvironment and is contributing to therapy resistance against chemotherapy. ATF4 induction in GB cells was modulated pharmacologically and genetically and investigated in the context of temozolomide treatment as well as glucose and oxygen deprivation. The relevance of the ISR was analyzed by cell death and metabolic measurements under conditions to approximate aspects of the GB microenvironment. ATF4 protein levels were induced by temozolomide treatment. In line, ATF4 gene suppressed GB cells (ATF4sh) displayed increased cell death and decreased survival after temozolomide treatment. Similar results were observed after treatment with the ISR inhibitor ISRIB. ATF4sh and ISRIB treated GB cells were sensitized to hypoxia-induced cell death. Our experimental study provides evidence for an important role of ATF4 for the adaptation of human GB cells to conditions of the tumor microenvironment characterized by low oxygen and nutrient availability and for the development of temozolomide resistance. Inhibiting the ISR in GB cells could therefore be a promising therapeutic approach.
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14
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Vlaikou AM, Nussbaumer M, Komini C, Lambrianidou A, Konidaris C, Trangas T, Filiou MD. Exploring the crosstalk of glycolysis and mitochondrial metabolism in psychiatric disorders and brain tumours. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:3002-3018. [PMID: 33226682 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of metabolic pathways characterises a plethora of common pathologies and has emerged as an underlying hallmark of disease phenotypes. Here, we focus on psychiatric disorders and brain tumours and explore changes in the interplay between glycolysis and mitochondrial energy metabolism in the brain. We discuss alterations in glycolysis versus core mitochondrial metabolic pathways, such as the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, in major psychiatric disorders and brain tumours. We investigate potential common patterns of altered mitochondrial metabolism in different brain regions and sample types and explore how changes in mitochondrial number, shape and morphology affect disease-related manifestations. We also highlight the potential of pharmacologically targeting mitochondria to achieve therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeliki-Maria Vlaikou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Biomedical Research Division, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Markus Nussbaumer
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Biomedical Research Division, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Komini
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Biomedical Research Division, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Andromachi Lambrianidou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Constantinos Konidaris
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Biomedical Research Division, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theoni Trangas
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Michaela D Filiou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Biomedical Research Division, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Ioannina, Greece
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15
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Glutaminase isoforms expression switches microRNA levels and oxidative status in glioblastoma cells. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:14. [PMID: 33610185 PMCID: PMC7897386 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00712-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Glutaminase isoenzymes GLS and GLS2 play apparently opposing roles in cancer: GLS acts as an oncoprotein, while GLS2 (GAB isoform) has context specific tumour suppressive activity. Some microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in progression of tumours, including gliomas. The aim was to investigate the effect of GLS and GAB expression on both miRNAs and oxidative status in glioblastoma cells. Methods
Microarray profiling of miRNA was performed in GLS-silenced LN229 and GAB-transfected T98G human glioblastoma cells and their wild-type counterparts. Results were validated by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. Oxidative status and antioxidant enzymes were determined by spectrophotometric or fluorescence assays in GLS-silenced LN229 and T98G, and GAB-transfected LN229 and T98G. Results MiRNA-146a-5p, miRNA-140-3p, miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-1260a, and miRNA-92a-3p were downregulated, and miRNA-1246 was upregulated when GLS was knocked down. MiRNA-140-3p, miRNA-1246, miRNA-1260a, miRNA-21-5p, and miRNA-146a-5p were upregulated when GAB was overexpressed. Oxidative status (lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione levels), as well as antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase) of silenced GLS glioblastoma cells and overexpressed GAB glioblastoma cells significantly changed versus their respective control glioblastoma cells. MiRNA-1246, miRNA-1260a, miRNA-146a-5p, and miRNA-21-5p have been characterized as strong biomarkers of glioblastoma proliferation linked to both GLS silencing and GAB overexpression. Total glutathione is a reliable biomarker of glioblastoma oxidative status steadily associated to both GLS silencing and GAB overexpression. Conclusions Glutaminase isoenzymes are related to the expression of some miRNAs and may contribute to either tumour progression or suppression through certain miRNA-mediated pathways, proving to be a key tool to switch cancer proliferation and redox status leading to a less malignant phenotype. Accordingly, GLS and GAB expression are especially involved in glutathione-dependent antioxidant defence.
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16
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The Nrf2/PGC1 α Pathway Regulates Antioxidant and Proteasomal Activity to Alter Cisplatin Sensitivity in Ovarian Cancer. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:4830418. [PMID: 33294122 PMCID: PMC7714579 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4830418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance remains a barrier in the clinical treatment of ovarian cancer. Proteasomal and antioxidant activities play important roles in tumor drug resistance, and increasing evidence suggests the existence of an interaction between antioxidant and proteasomal activities. However, the mechanism of the synergistic effects of proteasomal activity and antioxidation on tumor drug resistance is not completely clear. In this study, we compared two ovarian cancer cells, A2780 and SKOV3 cells. Among them, SKOV3 cell is a human clear cell carcinoma cell line that is resistant to platinum. We found that compared with the findings in A2780 cells, SKOV3 cells were less sensitive to both proteasomal inhibitor and cisplatin. Proteasomal inhibition enhanced the sensitivity of A2780 cells, but not SKOV3 cells, to cisplatin. Notably, the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant pathway was identified as a resistance mechanism in proteasome inhibitor-resistant cells, but this was not the only factor identified in our research. In SKOV3 cells, PGC1α regulated the antioxidant activity of Nrf2 by increasing the phosphorylation of GSK3β, and in turn, Nrf2 regulated the transcriptional activity of PGC1α. Thus, Nrf2 and PGC1α synergistically participate in the regulation of proteasomal activity. Furthermore, the Nrf2/PGC1α pathway participated in the regulation of mitochondrial function and homeostasis, further regulating proteasomal activity in SKOV3 cells. Therefore, exploring the roles of PGC1α and Nrf2 in the regulation of proteasomal activity by antioxidant and mitochondrial functions may provide new avenues for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer.
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17
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Anis E, Zafeer MF, Firdaus F, Islam SN, Khan AA, Hossain MM. Perillyl Alcohol Mitigates Behavioural Changes and Limits Cell Death and Mitochondrial Changes in Unilateral 6-OHDA Lesion Model of Parkinson's Disease Through Alleviation of Oxidative Stress. Neurotox Res 2020; 38:461-477. [PMID: 32394056 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00213-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aim to assess the phytomedicinal potential of perillyl alcohol (PA), a dietary monoterpenoid, in a unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesion rat model of Parkinson's disease (PD). We observed that PA supplementation alleviated behavioural abnormalities such as loss of coordination, reduced rearing and motor asymmetry in lesioned animals. We also observed that PA-treated animals exhibited reduced oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation and caspase 3 activity indicating alleviation of apoptotic cell death. We found reduced mRNA levels of pro-apoptotic regulator BAX and pro-inflammatory mediators IL18 and TNFα in PA-treated animals. Further, PA treatment successfully increased mRNA and protein levels of Bcl2, mitochondrial biogenesis regulator PGC1α and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in lesioned animals. We observed that PA treatment blocked BAX and Drp1 translocation to mitochondria, an event often associated with the inception of apoptosis. Further, 6-OHDA exposure reduced expression of electron transport chain complexes I and IV, thereby disturbing energy metabolism. Conversely, expression levels of both complexes were upregulated with PA treatment in lesioned rats. Finally, we found that protein levels of Nrf2, the transcription factor responsible for antioxidant gene expression, were markedly reduced in cytosolic and nuclear fraction on 6-OHDA exposure, and PA increased expression of Nrf2 in both fractions. We believe that our data hints towards PA having the ability to provide cytoprotection in a hemiparkinsonian rat model through alleviation of motor deficits, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehraz Anis
- Interdisciplinary Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Mohd Faraz Zafeer
- Interdisciplinary Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Fakiha Firdaus
- Interdisciplinary Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shireen Naaz Islam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Azka Anees Khan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - M Mobarak Hossain
- Interdisciplinary Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
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18
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Abstract
During nearly 100 years of research on cancer cachexia (CC), science has been reciting the same mantra: it is a multifactorial syndrome. The aim of this paper is to show that the symptoms are many, but they have a single cause: anoxia. CC is a complex and devastating condition that affects a high proportion of advanced cancer patients. Unfortunately, it cannot be reversed by traditional nutritional support and it generally reduces survival time. It is characterized by significant weight loss, mainly from fat deposits and skeletal muscles. The occurrence of cachexia in cancer patients is usually a late phenomenon. The conundrum is why do similar patients with similar tumors, develop cachexia and others do not? Even if cachexia is mainly a metabolic dysfunction, there are other issues involved such as the activation of inflammatory responses and crosstalk between different cell types. The exact mechanism leading to a wasting syndrome is not known, however there are some factors that are surely involved, such as anorexia with lower calorie intake, increased glycolytic flux, gluconeogenesis, increased lipolysis and severe tumor hypoxia. Based on this incomplete knowledge we put together a scheme explaining the molecular mechanisms behind cancer cachexia, and surprisingly, there is one cause that explains all of its characteristics: anoxia. With this different view of CC we propose a treatment based on the physiopathology that leads from anoxia to the symptoms of CC. The fundamentals of this hypothesis are based on the idea that CC is the result of anoxia causing intracellular lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous situation for cell survival which can be solved by activating energy consuming gluconeogenesis. The process is conducted by the hypoxia inducible factor-1α. This hypothesis was built by putting together pieces of evidence produced by authors working on related topics.
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19
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Cheng G, Pan J, Podsiadly R, Zielonka J, Garces AM, Dias Duarte Machado LG, Bennett B, McAllister D, Dwinell MB, You M, Kalyanaraman B. Increased formation of reactive oxygen species during tumor growth: Ex vivo low-temperature EPR and in vivo bioluminescence analyses. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 147:167-174. [PMID: 31874251 PMCID: PMC6948008 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide or hydrogen peroxide generated at low levels can exert a tumor-promoting role via a redox-signaling mechanism. Reports also suggest that both tumorigenesis and tumor growth are associated with enhanced ROS formation. However, whether ROS levels or ROS-derived oxidative marker levels increase during tumor growth remains unknown. In this study, in vivo bioluminescence imaging with a boronate-based pro-luciferin probe was used to assess ROS formation. Additionally, probe-free cryogenic electron paramagnetic resonance was used to quantify a characteristic aconitase [3Fe4S]+ center that arises in the tumor tissue of mouse xenografts from the reaction of the native [4Fe4S]2+ cluster with superoxide. Results indicated that tumor growth is accompanied by increased ROS formation, and revealed differences in oxidant formation in the inner and outer sections of tumor tissue, respectively, demonstrating redox heterogeneity. Studies using luciferin and pro-luciferin probes enabled the assessment of tumor size, ROS formation, and bioenergetic status (e.g., ATP) in luciferase-transfected mice tumor xenografts. Probe-free ex vivo low-temperature electron paramagnetic resonance can also be translated to clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Cheng
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Jing Pan
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Radoslaw Podsiadly
- Institute of Polymer and Dye Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 12/16, 90-924, Lodz, Poland
| | - Jacek Zielonka
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Alexander M Garces
- Department of Physics, Marquette University, 1420 West Clybourn Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233, United States
| | | | - Brian Bennett
- Department of Physics, Marquette University, 1420 West Clybourn Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233, United States
| | - Donna McAllister
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Michael B Dwinell
- Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Ming You
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Balaraman Kalyanaraman
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Free Radical Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States; Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States.
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20
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Zhang Y, Nguyen TTT, Shang E, Mela A, Humala N, Mahajan A, Zhao J, Shu C, Torrini C, Sanchez-Quintero MJ, Kleiner G, Bianchetti E, Westhoff MA, Quinzii CM, Karpel-Massler G, Bruce JN, Canoll P, Siegelin MD. MET Inhibition Elicits PGC1α-Dependent Metabolic Reprogramming in Glioblastoma. Cancer Res 2019; 80:30-43. [PMID: 31694905 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The receptor kinase c-MET has emerged as a target for glioblastoma therapy. However, treatment resistance emerges inevitably. Here, we performed global metabolite screening with metabolite set enrichment coupled with transcriptome and gene set enrichment analysis and proteomic screening, and identified substantial reprogramming of tumor metabolism involving oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation (FAO) with substantial accumulation of acyl-carnitines accompanied by an increase of PGC1α in response to genetic (shRNA and CRISPR/Cas9) and pharmacologic (crizotinib) inhibition of c-MET. Extracellular flux and carbon tracing analyses (U-13C-glucose, U-13C-glutamine, and U-13C-palmitic acid) demonstrated enhanced oxidative metabolism, which was driven by FAO and supported by increased anaplerosis of glucose carbons. These findings were observed in concert with increased number and fusion of mitochondria and production of reactive oxygen species. Genetic interference with PGC1α rescued this oxidative phenotype driven by c-MET inhibition. Silencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that cAMP response elements binding protein regulates the expression of PGC1α in the context of c-MET inhibition. Interference with both oxidative phosphorylation (metformin, oligomycin) and β-oxidation of fatty acids (etomoxir) enhanced the antitumor efficacy of c-MET inhibition. Synergistic cell death was observed with c-MET inhibition and gamitrinib treatment. In patient-derived xenograft models, combination treatments of crizotinib and etomoxir, and crizotinib and gamitrinib were significantly more efficacious than single treatments and did not induce toxicity. Collectively, we have unraveled the mechanistic underpinnings of c-MET inhibition and identified novel combination therapies that may enhance its therapeutic efficacy. SIGNIFICANCE: c-MET inhibition causes profound metabolic reprogramming that can be targeted by drug combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiru Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Trang T T Nguyen
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Enyuan Shang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bronx Community College, City University of New York, Bronx, New York
| | - Angeliki Mela
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Nelson Humala
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Aayushi Mahajan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Junfei Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Chang Shu
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Consuelo Torrini
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Giulio Kleiner
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Elena Bianchetti
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Mike-Andrew Westhoff
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Catarina M Quinzii
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Jeffrey N Bruce
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Peter Canoll
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Markus D Siegelin
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York.
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A Shifty Target: Tumor-Initiating Cells and Their Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215370. [PMID: 31661927 PMCID: PMC6862122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-initiating cells (TICs), or cancer stem cells, constitute highly chemoresistant, asymmetrically dividing, and tumor-initiating populations in cancer and are thought to play a key role in metastatic and chemoresistant disease. Tumor-initiating cells are isolated from cell lines and clinical samples based on features such as sphere formation in stem cell medium and expression of TIC markers, typically a set of outer membrane proteins and certain transcription factors. Although both bulk tumor cells and TICs show an adaptive metabolic plasticity, TIC metabolism is thought to differ and likely in a tumor-specific and growth condition-dependent pattern. In the context of some common solid tumor diseases, we here review reports on how TIC isolation methods and markers associate with metabolic features, with some focus on oxidative metabolism, including fatty acid and lipid metabolism. These have emerged as significant factors in TIC phenotypes, and in tumor biology as a whole. Other sections address mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics in TICs, and the influence of the tumor microenvironment. Further elucidation of the complex biology of TICs and their metabolism will require advanced methodologies.
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