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Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
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2
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Yang Y, Zou GM, Wei XS, Zhang Z, Zhuo L, Xu QQ, Li WG. Identification and validation of biomarkers in membranous nephropathy and pan-cancer analysis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1302909. [PMID: 38846934 PMCID: PMC11153720 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1302909] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Membranous nephropathy (MN) is an autoimmune disease and represents the most prevalent type of renal pathology in adult patients afflicted with nephrotic syndrome. Despite substantial evidence suggesting a possible link between MN and cancer, the precise underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Methods In this study, we acquired and integrated two MN datasets (comprising a single-cell dataset and a bulk RNA-seq dataset) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database for differential expression gene (DEG) analysis, hub genes were obtained by LASSO and random forest algorithms, the diagnostic ability of hub genes was assessed using ROC curves, and the degree of immune cell infiltration was evaluated using the ssGSEA function. Concurrently, we gathered pan-cancer-related genes from the TCGA and GTEx databases, to analyze the expression, mutation status, drug sensitivity and prognosis of hub genes in pan-cancer. Results We conducted intersections between the set of 318 senescence-related genes and the 366 DEGs, resulting in the identification of 13 senescence-related DEGs. Afterwards, we meticulously analyzed these genes using the LASSO and random forest algorithms, which ultimately led to the discovery of six hub genes through intersection (PIK3R1, CCND1, TERF2IP, SLC25A4, CAPN2, and TXN). ROC curves suggest that these hub genes have good recognition of MN. After performing correlation analysis, examining immune infiltration, and conducting a comprehensive pan-cancer investigation, we validated these six hub genes through immunohistochemical analysis using human renal biopsy tissues. The pan-cancer analysis notably accentuates the robust association between these hub genes and the prognoses of individuals afflicted by diverse cancer types, further underscoring the importance of mutations within these hub genes across various cancers. Conclusion This evidence indicates that these genes could potentially play a pivotal role as a critical link connecting MN and cancer. As a result, they may hold promise as valuable targets for intervention in cases of both MN and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Wen-ge Li
- *Correspondence: Qian-qian Xu, ; Wen-ge Li,
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3
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Zhang P, Dong S, Sun W, Zhong W, Xiong J, Gong X, Li J, Lin H, Zhuang Y. Deciphering Treg cell roles in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a comprehensive prognostic and immunotherapeutic analysis. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1277530. [PMID: 37842637 PMCID: PMC10568469 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1277530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent and aggressive form of cancer that poses significant challenges in terms of prognosis and treatment. Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) have gained attention due to their influential role in immune modulation within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Understanding the intricate interactions between Treg cells and the tumor microenvironment is essential for unraveling the mechanisms underlying ESCC progression and for developing effective prognostic models and immunotherapeutic strategies. Methods: A combination of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk RNA-seq analysis was utilized to explore the role of Treg cells within the TME of ESCC. The accuracy and applicability of the prognostic model were assessed through multi-dimensional evaluations, encompassing an examination of the model's performance across various dimensions, such as the mutation landscape, clinical relevance, enrichment analysis, and potential implications for immunotherapy strategies. Results: The pivotal role of the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) signaling pathway within the ESCC TME was investigated, with a focus on its impact on Treg cells and other subpopulations. Through comprehensive integration of bulk sequencing data, a Treg-associated signature (TAS) was constructed, revealing that ESCC patients with elevated TAS (referred to as high-TAS individuals) experienced significantly improved prognoses. Heightened immune infiltration and increased expression of immune checkpoint markers were observed in high-TAS specimens. The model's validity was established through the IMvigor210 dataset, demonstrating its robustness in predicting prognosis and responsiveness to immunotherapy. Heightened therapeutic benefits were observed in immune-based interventions for high-TAS ESCC patients. Noteworthy differences in pathway enrichment patterns emerged between high and low-TAS cohorts, highlighting potential avenues for therapeutic exploration. Furthermore, the clinical relevance of key model genes was substantiated by analyzing clinical samples from ten paired tumor and adjacent tissues, revealing differential expression levels. Conclusion: The study established a TAS that enables accurate prediction of patient prognosis and responsiveness to immunotherapy. This achievement holds significant implications for the clinical management of ESCC, offering valuable insights for informed therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengpeng Zhang
- Department of Lung Cancer Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shiyang Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Fuyang Tumour Hospital, Fuyang, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing, China
| | - Wan Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwen Xiong
- Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiangjin Gong
- Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haoran Lin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Zhuang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Chest Hospital, Nanjing, China
- Afliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Mohseni N, Ghaniee Zarich M, Afshar S, Hosseini M. Identification of Novel Biomarkers for Response to Preoperative Chemoradiation in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer with Genetic Algorithm-Based Gene Selection. J Gastrointest Cancer 2023; 54:937-950. [PMID: 36534304 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-022-00873-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The conventional treatment for patients with locally advanced colorectal tumors is preoperative chemo-radiotherapy (PCRT) preceding surgery. This treatment strategy has some long-term side effects, and some patients do not respond to it. Therefore, an evaluation of biomarkers that may help predict patients' response to PCRT is essential. METHODS We took advantage of genetic algorithm to search the space of possible combinations of features to choose subsets of genes that would yield convenient performance in differentiating PCRT responders from non-responders using a logistic regression model as our classifier. RESULTS We developed two gene signatures; first, to achieve the maximum prediction accuracy, the algorithm yielded 39 genes, and then, aiming to reduce the feature numbers as much as possible (while maintaining acceptable performance), a 5-gene signature was chosen. The performance of the two gene signatures was (accuracy = 0.97 and 0.81, sensitivity = 0.96 and 0.83, and specificity = 86 and 0.77) using a logistic regression classifier. Through analyzing bias and variance decomposition of the model error, we further investigated the involved genes by discovering and validating another 28-gene signature which possibly points towards two different sub-systems involved in the response of the patients to treatment. CONCLUSIONS Using genetic algorithm as our gene selection method, we have identified two groups of genes that can differentiate PCRT responders from non-responders in patients of the studied dataset with considerable performance. IMPACT After passing standard requirements, our gene signatures may be applicable as a robust and effective PCRT response prediction tool for colorectal cancer patients in clinical settings and may also help future studies aiming to further investigate involved pathways gain a clearer picture for the course of their research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Mohseni
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Lund University, Skåne, Sweden
| | | | - Saeid Afshar
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Lee E, Cheung J, Bialkowska AB. Krüppel-like Factors 4 and 5 in Colorectal Tumorigenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092430. [PMID: 37173904 PMCID: PMC10177156 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are transcription factors regulating various biological processes such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, invasion, and homeostasis. Importantly, they participate in disease development and progression. KLFs are expressed in multiple tissues, and their role is tissue- and context-dependent. KLF4 and KLF5 are two fascinating members of this family that regulate crucial stages of cellular identity from embryogenesis through differentiation and, finally, during tumorigenesis. They maintain homeostasis of various tissues and regulate inflammation, response to injury, regeneration, and development and progression of multiple cancers such as colorectal, breast, ovarian, pancreatic, lung, and prostate, to name a few. Recent studies broaden our understanding of their function and demonstrate their opposing roles in regulating gene expression, cellular function, and tumorigenesis. This review will focus on the roles KLF4 and KLF5 play in colorectal cancer. Understanding the context-dependent functions of KLF4 and KLF5 and the mechanisms through which they exert their effects will be extremely helpful in developing targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Lee
- Department of Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Jacky Cheung
- Department of Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Agnieszka B Bialkowska
- Department of Medicine, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
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Tessmann JW, Rocha MR, Morgado-Díaz JA. Mechanisms of radioresistance and the underlying signaling pathways in colorectal cancer cells. J Cell Biochem 2023; 124:31-45. [PMID: 36565460 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the most common modalities for the treatment of a wide range of tumors, including colorectal cancer (CRC); however, radioresistance of cancer cells remains a major limitation for this treatment. Following radiotherapy, the activities of various cellular mechanisms and cell signaling pathways are altered, resulting in the development of radioresistance, which leads to therapeutic failure and poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Furthermore, even though several inhibitors have been developed to target tumor resistance, these molecules can induce side effects in nontumor cells due to low specificity and efficiency. However, the role of these mechanisms in CRC has not been extensively studied. This review discusses recent studies regarding the relationship between radioresistance and the alterations in a series of cellular mechanisms and cell signaling pathways that lead to therapeutic failure and tumor recurrence. Our review also presents recent advances in the in vitro/in vivo study models aimed at investigating the radioresistance mechanism in CRC. Furthermore, it provides a relevant biochemical basis in theory, which can be useful to improve radiotherapy sensitivity and prolong patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiane W Tessmann
- Cellular and Molecular Oncobiology Program, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Murilo R Rocha
- Cellular and Molecular Oncobiology Program, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose A Morgado-Díaz
- Cellular and Molecular Oncobiology Program, Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kawata M, Teramura T, Ordoukhanian P, Head SR, Natarajan P, Sundaresan A, Olmer M, Asahara H, Lotz MK. Krüppel-like factor-4 and Krüppel-like factor-2 are important regulators of joint tissue cells and protect against tissue destruction and inflammation in osteoarthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:annrheumdis-2021-221867. [PMID: 35534137 PMCID: PMC9643672 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Analysing expression patterns of Krüppel-like factor (KLF) transcription factors in normal and osteoarthritis (OA) human cartilage, and determining functions and mechanisms of KLF4 and KLF2 in joint homoeostasis and OA pathogenesis. METHODS Experimental approaches included human joint tissues cells, transgenic mice and mouse OA model with viral KLF4 gene delivery to demonstrate therapeutic benefit in structure and pain improvement. Mechanistic studies applied global gene expression analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq). RESULTS Several KLF genes were significantly decreased in OA cartilage. Among them, KLF4 and KLF2 were strong inducers of cartilage collagen genes and Proteoglycan-4. Cartilage-specific deletion of Klf2 in mature mice aggravated severity of experimental OA. Transduction of human chondrocytes with Adenovirus (Ad) expressing KLF4 or KLF2 enhanced expression of major cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) genes and SRY-box transcription factor-9, and suppressed mediators of inflammation and ECM-degrading enzymes. Ad-KLF4 and Ad-KLF2 enhanced similar protective functions in meniscus cells and synoviocytes, and promoted chondrocytic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. Viral KLF4 delivery into mouse knees reduced severity of OA-associated changes in cartilage, meniscus and synovium, and improved pain behaviours. ChIP-seq analysis suggested that KLF4 directly bound cartilage signature genes. Ras-related protein-1 signalling was the most enriched pathway in KLF4-transduced cells, and its signalling axis was involved in upregulating cartilage ECM genes by KLF4 and KLF2. CONCLUSIONS KLF4 and KLF2 may be central transcription factors that increase protective and regenerative functions in joint tissue cells, suggesting that KLF gene transfer or molecules upregulating KLFs are therapeutic candidates for OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Kawata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Takeshi Teramura
- Division of Cell Biology for Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, Osaka, Japan
| | - Philip Ordoukhanian
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics Core, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Steven R Head
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics Core, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Padmaja Natarajan
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics Core, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Aishwarya Sundaresan
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics Core, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Merissa Olmer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Hiroshi Asahara
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Martin K Lotz
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
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RAP1/TERF2IP-A Multifunctional Player in Cancer Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13235970. [PMID: 34885080 PMCID: PMC8657031 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary RAP1 (TERF2IP) is a member of the shelterin complex that protects telomeric DNA and plays a critical role in maintaining chromosome stability. However, mammalian RAP1 was recently found to have additional functions apart from telomeres, acting as a regulator of the NF-κB pathway and transcription factor, and has been suggested that they have putative roles in cancer development. Here, we focus on the main roles of RAP1 in different mechanisms of oncogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance, and consider the clinical significance of findings about its regulation and biological functions. Abstract Mammalian RAP1 (TERF2IP), the most conserved shelterin component, plays a pleiotropic role in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes, including cell metabolism, DNA damage response, and NF-κB signaling, beyond its canonical telomeric role. Moreover, it has been demonstrated to be involved in oncogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance in human cancers. Several mutations and different expression patterns of RAP1 in cancers have been reported. However, the functions and mechanisms of RAP1 in various cancers have not been extensively studied, suggesting the necessity of further investigations. In this review, we summarize the main roles of RAP1 in different mechanisms of cancer development and chemoresistance, with special emphasis on the contribution of RAP1 mutations, expression patterns, and regulation by non-coding RNA, and briefly discuss telomeric and non-telomeric functions.
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Li H, Han G, Li X, Li B, Wu B, Jin H, Wu L, Wang W. MAPK-RAP1A Signaling Enriched in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Is Associated With Favorable Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells and Clinical Prognosis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:649980. [PMID: 34178637 PMCID: PMC8222816 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.649980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MAPK-RAP1A signaling, which is involved in cancer progression, remains to be defined. Upregulation of MAPK-RAP1A signaling accounts for most cancers that harbor high incident rate, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and pancreatic cancer, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MAPK-RAP1A signaling plays an important function as clinical diagnosis and prognostic value in cancers, and the role of MAPK-RAP1A signaling related with immune infiltration for HCC should be elucidated. Methods Microarray data and patient cohort information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA; n = 425) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC; n = 405) were selected for validation. The Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used to construct a clinical prognostic model in this analysis and validation study. We also tested the area under the curve (AUC) of the risk signature that could reflect the status of predictive power by determining model. MAPK-RAP1A signaling is also associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs) as well as clinical parameters in HCC. The GSEA and CIBERSORT were used to calculate the proportion of TICs, which should be beneficial for the clinical characteristics (clinical stage, distant metastasis) and positively correlated with the survival of HCC patients. Results HCC patients with enrichment of MAPK-RAP1A signaling were associated with clinical characteristics and favorable T cell gamma delta (Vδ T cells), and STMN1, RAP1A, FLT3, HSPA8, ANGPT2, and PGF were used as candidate biomarkers for risk scores of HCC. To determine the molecular mechanism of this signature gene association, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was proposed. Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, TGF-β signaling pathway, and Intestinal immune network for IgA production gene sets were closely related in MAPK-RAP1A gene sets. Thus, we established a novel prognostic prediction of HCC to deepen learning of MAPK-RAP1A signaling pathways. Conclusion Our findings demonstrated that HCC patients with enrichment of MAPK-RAP1A signaling were associated with clinical characteristics and favorable T cell gamma delta (Vδ T cells), which may be a novel prognostic prediction of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Guangyu Han
- Department of General Surgery, Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Oncology and Laparoscopy Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hongyuan Jin
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lingli Wu
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
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Akincilar SC, Chan CHT, Ng QF, Fidan K, Tergaonkar V. Non-canonical roles of canonical telomere binding proteins in cancers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4235-4257. [PMID: 33599797 PMCID: PMC8164586 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03783-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Reactivation of telomerase is a major hallmark observed in 90% of all cancers. Yet paradoxically, enhanced telomerase activity does not correlate with telomere length and cancers often possess short telomeres; suggestive of supplementary non-canonical roles that telomerase might play in the development of cancer. Moreover, studies have shown that aberrant expression of shelterin proteins coupled with their release from shortening telomeres can further promote cancer by mechanisms independent of their telomeric role. While targeting telomerase activity appears to be an attractive therapeutic option, this approach has failed in clinical trials due to undesirable cytotoxic effects on stem cells. To circumvent this concern, an alternative strategy could be to target the molecules involved in the non-canonical functions of telomeric proteins. In this review, we will focus on emerging evidence that has demonstrated the non-canonical roles of telomeric proteins and their impact on tumorigenesis. Furthermore, we aim to address current knowledge gaps in telomeric protein functions and propose future research approaches that can be undertaken to achieve this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semih Can Akincilar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Claire Hian Tzer Chan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Qin Feng Ng
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Kerem Fidan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117593, Singapore.
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Wang F, Ma X, Mao G, Zhang X, Kong Z. STAT3 enhances radiation-induced tumor migration, invasion and stem-like properties of bladder cancer. Mol Med Rep 2020; 23:87. [PMID: 33236137 PMCID: PMC7716396 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BCa) is the most common cancer of the human urinary system, and is associated with poor patient prognosis and a high recurrence rate. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the primary cause of tumor recurrence and metastasis, possessing self-renewal properties and resistance to radiation therapy. Our previous studies indicated that phosphorylated signal transduction and transcription activator 3 (STAT3) may be a potential biomarker to predict radiation tolerance and tumor recurrence in patients with BCa, following conventional radiotherapy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of STAT3 in the radio-resistance of BCa cells. It was found that fractionated irradiation promoted the activation of two STAT3-associated CSCs signaling pathways in BCa cells, namely suppressor of variegation 3–9 homolog 1/GATA binding protein 3/STAT3 and Janus kinase 2/STAT3. Surviving cells exhibited elevated migratory and invasive abilities, enhanced CSC-like characteristics and radio-resistance. Furthermore, knockdown of STAT3 expression or inhibition of STAT3 activation markedly decreased the self-renewal ability and tumorigenicity of radiation-resistant BCa cells. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that decreased STAT3 mRNA levels were associated with increased overall survival times in patients with BCa. Taken together, these data indicated that STAT3 may be an effective therapeutic target for inhibiting the progression, metastasis and recurrence of BCa in patients receiving radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xiangli Ma
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Guangmin Mao
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xiangyan Zhang
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Zhaolu Kong
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
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Recent Discoveries on the Involvement of Krüppel-Like Factor 4 in the Most Common Cancer Types. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228843. [PMID: 33266506 PMCID: PMC7700188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is a transcription factor highly conserved in evolution. It is particularly well known for its role in inducing pluripotent stem cells. In addition, KLF4 plays many roles in cancer. The results of most studies suggest that KLF4 is a tumor suppressor. However, the functioning of KLF4 is regulated at many levels. These include regulation of transcription, alternative splicing, miRNA, post-translational modifications, subcellular localization, protein stability and interactions with other molecules. Simple experiments aimed at assaying transcript levels or protein levels fail to address this complexity and thus may deliver misleading results. Tumor subtypes are also important; for example, in prostate cancer KLF4 is highly expressed in indolent tumors where it impedes tumor progression, while it is absent from aggressive prostate tumors. KLF4 is important in regulating response to many known drugs, and it also plays a role in tumor microenvironment. More and more information is available about upstream regulators, downstream targets and signaling pathways associated with the involvement of KLF4 in cancer. Furthermore, KLF4 performs critical function in the overall regulation of tissue homeostasis, cellular integrity, and progression towards malignancy. Here we summarize and analyze the latest findings concerning this fascinating transcription factor.
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Khattar E, Tergaonkar V. Role of Rap1 in DNA damage response: implications in stem cell homeostasis and cancer. Exp Hematol 2020; 90:12-17. [PMID: 32858091 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian Rap1 is a part of the telomere binding complex named shelterin and is one of the most conserved telomeric proteins. With its essential requirement in lower species to its becoming necessary in higher species, it appears to have gained and lost several functions simultaneously evolving with telomeres. Mammalian Rap1 has been reported to play a role in inflammation, metabolism, and oxidative stress. Mammalian Rap1 has also been found to regulate DNA damage response from telomeres in senescent cells. Recently our group uncovered its novel role in stem cell maintenance, and modulation of the chemotherapeutic response. Mechanistically it was found to function as an adaptor via protein-protein interactions and to modulate the response to DNA damage. In the current review we highlight newly identified functions of Rap1 in regulating telomeric and general DNA damage response with its impact at the cellular and organismal levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekta Khattar
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Mumbai, India.
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore
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