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Xue Y, Chen Y, Sun S, Tong X, Chen Y, Tang S, Wang X, Bi S, Qiu Y, Zhao Q, Qin Z, Xu Q, Ai Y, Chen L, Zhang B, Liu Z, Ji M, Lang M, Chen L, Xu G, Hu L, Ye D, Ji H. TET2-STAT3-CXCL5 nexus promotes neutrophil lipid transfer to fuel lung adeno-to-squamous transition. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20240111. [PMID: 38805014 PMCID: PMC11129275 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20240111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic plasticity is a rising cancer hallmark, and lung adeno-to-squamous transition (AST) triggered by LKB1 inactivation is significantly associated with drug resistance. Mechanistic insights into AST are urgently needed to identify therapeutic vulnerability in LKB1-deficient lung cancer. Here, we find that ten-eleven translocation (TET)-mediated DNA demethylation is elevated during AST in KrasLSL-G12D/+; Lkb1L/L (KL) mice, and knockout of individual Tet genes reveals that Tet2 is required for squamous transition. TET2 promotes neutrophil infiltration through STAT3-mediated CXCL5 expression. Targeting the STAT3-CXCL5 nexus effectively inhibits squamous transition through reducing neutrophil infiltration. Interestingly, tumor-infiltrating neutrophils are laden with triglycerides and can transfer the lipid to tumor cells to promote cell proliferation and squamous transition. Pharmacological inhibition of macropinocytosis dramatically inhibits neutrophil-to-cancer cell lipid transfer and blocks squamous transition. These data uncover an epigenetic mechanism orchestrating phenotypic plasticity through regulating immune microenvironment and metabolic communication, and identify therapeutic strategies to inhibit AST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Xue
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sijia Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyuan Tong
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujia Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shijie Tang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Simin Bi
- Department of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Shanghai, China
| | - Yuqin Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiqi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Qin
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingjie Ai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leilei Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Beizhen Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijie Liu
- Department of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Shanghai, China
| | - Minbiao Ji
- Department of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Shanghai, China
| | - Meidong Lang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luonan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Guoliang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (RU069), Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongbin Ji
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
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Mohamed AH, Ahmed AT, Al Abdulmonem W, Bokov DO, Shafie A, Al-Hetty HRAK, Hsu CY, Alissa M, Nazir S, Jamali MC, Mudhafar M. Interleukin-6 serves as a critical factor in various cancer progression and therapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:182. [PMID: 38900329 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02422-5] [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: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, plays a crucial role in host immune defense and acute stress responses. Moreover, it modulates various cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and differentiation. These effects are facilitated by various signaling pathways, particularly the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and Janus kinase 2 (JAK2). However, excessive IL-6 production and dysregulated signaling are associated with various cancers, promoting tumorigenesis by influencing all cancer hallmarks, such as apoptosis, survival, proliferation, angiogenesis, invasiveness, metastasis, and notably, metabolism. Emerging evidence indicates that selective inhibition of the IL-6 signaling pathway yields therapeutic benefits across diverse malignancies, such as multiple myeloma, prostate, colorectal, renal, ovarian, and lung cancers. Targeting key components of IL-6 signaling, such as IL-6Rs, gp130, STAT3, and JAK via monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) or small molecules, is a heavily researched approach in preclinical cancer studies. The purpose of this study is to offer an overview of the role of IL-6 and its signaling pathway in various cancer types. Furthermore, we discussed current preclinical and clinical studies focusing on targeting IL-6 signaling as a therapeutic strategy for various types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma'a H Mohamed
- Biomedical Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Technologies, Al-Mustaqbal University, Babil, Hilla, 51001, Iraq
| | - Abdulrahman T Ahmed
- Department of Nursing, Al-Maarif University College, Ramadi, AL-Anbar Governorate, Iraq.
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Dmitry Olegovich Bokov
- Institute of Pharmacy named after A.P. Nelyubin, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8 Trubetskaya St., bldg. 2, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119991
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry, Federal Research Center of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, 2/14 Ustyinsky pr., Moscow, Russian Federation, 109240
| | - Alaa Shafie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, 21944, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Chou-Yi Hsu
- Thunderbird School of Global Management, Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA
| | - Mohammed Alissa
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahid Nazir
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammad Chand Jamali
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Liwa College, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mustafa Mudhafar
- Department of Medical Physics, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Kerbala, Karbala, 56001, Iraq
- Department of Anesthesia Techniques and Intensive Care, Al-Taff University College, Kerbala, 56001, Iraq
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3
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Chen H, Bian A, Zhou W, Miao Y, Ye J, Li J, He P, Zhang Q, Sun Y, Sun Z, Ti C, Chen Y, Yi Z, Liu M. Discovery of the Highly Selective and Potent STAT3 Inhibitor for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:579-594. [PMID: 38559310 PMCID: PMC10979493 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an attractive cancer therapeutic target. Unfortunately, targeting STAT3 with small molecules has proven to be very challenging, and for full activation of STAT3, the cooperative phosphorylation of both tyrosine 705 (Tyr705) and serine 727 (Ser727) is needed. Further, a selective inhibitor of STAT3 dual phosphorylation has not been developed. Here, we identified a low nanomolar potency and highly selective small-molecule STAT3 inhibitor that simultaneously inhibits both STAT3 Tyr705 and Ser727 phosphorylation. YY002 potently inhibited STAT3-dependent tumor cell growth in vitro and achieved potent suppression of tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. More importantly, YY002 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetics, an acceptable safety profile, and superior antitumor efficacy compared to BBI608 (STAT3 inhibitor that has advanced into phase III trials). For the mechanism, YY002 is selectively bound to the STAT3 Src Homology 2 (SH2) domain over other STAT members, which strongly suppressed STAT3 nuclear and mitochondrial functions in STAT3-dependent cells. Collectively, this study suggests the potential of small-molecule STAT3 inhibitors as possible anticancer therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Chen
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
- Shanghai
Yuyao Biotech Co., LTD. Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Aiwu Bian
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
- Shanghai
Yuyao Biotech Co., LTD. Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Wenbo Zhou
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
- Shanghai
Yuyao Biotech Co., LTD. Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ying Miao
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Jiangnan Ye
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui Li
- Southern
Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Peng He
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Qiansen Zhang
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Yue Sun
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Zhenliang Sun
- Southern
Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Chaowen Ti
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Yihua Chen
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Zhengfang Yi
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
and School of Life Sciences, East China
Normal University, Shanghai 200241, P.R. China
- Shanghai
Yuyao Biotech Co., LTD. Shanghai 200241, China
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4
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Wang M, Chen S, He X, Yuan Y, Wei X. Targeting inflammation as cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:13. [PMID: 38520006 PMCID: PMC10960486 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01528-7] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammation has accompanied human beings since the emergence of wounds and infections. In the past decades, numerous efforts have been undertaken to explore the potential role of inflammation in cancer, from tumor development, invasion, and metastasis to the resistance of tumors to treatment. Inflammation-targeted agents not only demonstrate the potential to suppress cancer development, but also to improve the efficacy of other therapeutic modalities. In this review, we describe the highly dynamic and complex inflammatory tumor microenvironment, with discussion on key inflammation mediators in cancer including inflammatory cells, inflammatory cytokines, and their downstream intracellular pathways. In addition, we especially address the role of inflammation in cancer development and highlight the action mechanisms of inflammation-targeted therapies in antitumor response. Finally, we summarize the results from both preclinical and clinical studies up to date to illustrate the translation potential of inflammation-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manni Wang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Block3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Block3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei He
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Block3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, Block3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Li R, Wu Y, Li Y, Shuai W, Wang A, Zhu Y, Hu X, Xia Y, Ouyang L, Wang G. Targeted regulated cell death with small molecule compounds in colorectal cancer: Current perspectives of targeted therapy and molecular mechanisms. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116040. [PMID: 38142509 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC), a tumor of the digestive system, is characterized by high malignancy and poor prognosis. Currently, targeted therapy of CRC is far away from satisfying. The molecular mechanisms of regulated cell death (RCD) have been clearly elucidated, which can be intervened by drug or genetic modification. Numerous studies have provided substantial evidence linking these mechanisms to the progression and treatment of CRC. The RCD includes apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death (ADCD), ferroptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, and immunogenic cell death, etc, which provide potential targets for anti-cancer treatment. For the last several years, small-molecule compounds targeting RCD have been a well concerned therapeutic strategy for CRC. This present review aims to describe the function of small-molecule compounds in the targeted therapy of CRC via targeting apoptosis, ADCD, ferroptosis, necroptosis, immunogenic dell death and pyroptosis, and their mechanisms. In addition, we prospect the application of newly discovered cuproptosis and disulfidptosis in CRC. Our review may provide references for the targeted therapy of CRC using small-molecule compounds targeting RCD, including the potential targets and candidate compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Li
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongya Wu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wen Shuai
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aoxue Wang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiuying Hu
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yong Xia
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province/Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Guan Wang
- Innovation Center of Nursing Research, Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Management Department of Scientific Research Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University /West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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6
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Jung YY, Kim C, Shanmugam MK, Deivasigamani A, Chinnathambi A, Alharbi SA, Rangappa KS, Hui KM, Sethi G, Mohan CD, Ahn KS. Leonurine ameliorates the STAT3 pathway through the upregulation of SHP-1 to retard the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cell Signal 2024; 114:111003. [PMID: 38048857 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.111003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor that directs the transcription of genes involved in the promotion of cell survival and proliferation, inflammation, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. Overactivation of STAT3 is often witnessed in human cancers, thereby making it a good target in oncology. Herein the efficacy of Leonurine (Leo), a bioactive alkaloid present in Herba leonuri, was investigated for its STAT3-inhibitory potential in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Leo downregulated the persistent as well as IL-6-driven activation of STAT3. Leo abrogated the nuclear localization and DNA interacting ability of STAT3. Leo was also found to impart STAT3 inhibition by mitigating the activation of upstream kinases such as JAK1, JAK2, and Src both in constitutive and IL-6 inducible systems. Leo curbed the STAT3-driven luciferase gene expression and the depletion of STAT3 resulted in the reduced responsiveness of HCC cells to Leo. Pervanadate exposure counteracted Leo-induced STAT3 inhibition suggesting the involvement of a protein tyrosine phosphatase. SHP-1 was significantly elevated upon Leo exposure whereas the depletion of SHP-1 was found to revert the effect of Leo on STAT3. Leo induced apoptosis and also significantly potentiated the cytotoxic effect of paclitaxel, doxorubicin, and sorafenib. Leo was found to be non-toxic up to the dose of 10 mg/kg in NCr nude mice. In conclusion, Leo was demonstrated to induce cytotoxicity in HCC cells by mitigating the persistent of activation of STAT3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Yun Jung
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Chulwon Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Muthu K Shanmugam
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Amudha Deivasigamani
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre, Singapore
| | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box -2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box -2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kanchugarakoppal S Rangappa
- Institution of Excellence, Vijnana Bhavan, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore 570006, Karnataka, India
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Chakrabhavi Dhananjaya Mohan
- Department of Studies in Molecular Biology, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore 570006, Karnataka, India.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Adesoye T, Tripathy D, Hunt KK, Keyomarsi K. Exploring Novel Frontiers: Leveraging STAT3 Signaling for Advanced Cancer Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:492. [PMID: 38339245 PMCID: PMC10854592 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16030492] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a significant role in diverse physiologic processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and survival. STAT3 activation via phosphorylation of tyrosine and serine residues is a complex and tightly regulated process initiated by upstream signaling pathways with ligand binding to receptor and non-receptor-linked kinases. Through downstream deregulation of target genes, aberrations in STAT3 activation are implicated in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and recurrence in multiple cancers. While there have been extensive efforts to develop direct and indirect STAT3 inhibitors using novel drugs as a therapeutic strategy, direct clinical application remains in evolution. In this review, we outline the mechanisms of STAT3 activation, the resulting downstream effects in physiologic and malignant settings, and therapeutic strategies for targeting STAT3. We also summarize the pre-clinical and clinical evidence of novel drug therapies targeting STAT3 and discuss the challenges of establishing their therapeutic efficacy in the current clinical landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiwo Adesoye
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Debasish Tripathy
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Kelly K. Hunt
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Khandan Keyomarsi
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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8
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Skelin J, Luk HY, Butorac D, Boon SS, Tomaić V. The effects of HPV oncoproteins on host communication networks: Therapeutic connotations. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29315. [PMID: 38115222 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29315] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are a leading cause of viral-induced malignancies worldwide, with a prominent association with cervical and head and neck cancers. The pivotal role of HPV oncoproteins, E5, E6, and E7, in manipulating cellular events, which contribute to viral pathogenesis in various ways, has been extensively documented. This article reviews the influence of HPV oncoproteins on cellular signaling pathways within the host cell, shedding light on the underlying molecular mechanisms. A comprehensive understanding of these molecular alterations is essential for the development of targeted therapies and strategies to combat HPV-induced premalignancies and prevent their progress to cancer. Furthermore, this review underscores the intricate interplay between HPV oncoproteins and some of the most important cellular signaling pathways: Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK, JAK/STAT, and PI3K AKT/mTOR. The treatment efficacies of the currently available inhibitors on these pathways in an HPV-positive context are also discussed. This review also highlights the importance of continued research to advance our knowledge and enhance therapeutic interventions for HPV-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josipa Skelin
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ho Yin Luk
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Dražan Butorac
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Siaw Shi Boon
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Vjekoslav Tomaić
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
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Sun Z, Sun X, Qin G, Li Y, Zhou G, Jiang X. FTO promotes proliferation and migration of bladder cancer via enhancing stability of STAT3 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2242688. [PMID: 37538000 PMCID: PMC10405749 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2242688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) plays a key role in the occurrence and development of various cancers. Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) was is involved in multiple cancers owing to its demethylase activity, and the molecular mechanism underlying FTO-promoted bladder cancer proliferation and migration via the regulation of RNA stability requires further investigation. In the present study, FTO was upregulated in bladder cancer and related to poor prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments showed that the upregulation of FTO promoted bladder cancer proliferation and migration. Mechanistic studies showed that FTO enhanced the stability of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, thereby increasing STAT3 expression, which subsequently promoted P-STAT3 expression and activated STAT3 signalling pathway. Overall, this study revealed that the critical role of FTO in the progression of bladder cancer and could provide a novel avenue to regulate oncogene STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Sun
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaolu Sun
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guoliang Qin
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guanwen Zhou
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xianzhou Jiang
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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10
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Wang W, Lopez McDonald MC, Kim C, Ma M, Pan Z(T, Kaufmann C, Frank DA. The complementary roles of STAT3 and STAT1 in cancer biology: insights into tumor pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1265818. [PMID: 38022653 PMCID: PMC10663227 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1265818] [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: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STATs are a family of transcription factors that regulate many critical cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. Dysregulation of STATs is frequently observed in tumors and can directly drive cancer pathogenesis. STAT1 and STAT3 are generally viewed as mediating opposite roles in cancer development, with STAT1 suppressing tumorigenesis and STAT3 promoting oncogenesis. In this review, we investigate the specific roles of STAT1 and STAT3 in normal physiology and cancer biology, explore their interactions with each other, and offer insights into therapeutic strategies through modulating their transcriptional activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - David A. Frank
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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11
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Strobel TD, Weber M, Heber N, Holzer A, Hoppe-Seyler K, Hoppe-Seyler F. Revisiting the role of endogenous STAT3 in HPV-positive cervical cancer cells. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29230. [PMID: 38009614 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29230] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Novel treatment options for human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced cancers are urgently required. The oncogenic transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is considered to be constitutively active in HPV-positive cervical cancer cells and essential for their proliferation. Moreover, STAT3 was reported to undergo mutually stimulatory interactions with the HPV E6/E7 oncogenes. Thus, inhibiting STAT3 in HPV-positive cancer cells is under discussion to provide a powerful novel therapeutic strategy. We here show that the antifungal drug ciclopirox destabilizes the STAT3 protein by acting as an iron chelator. However, by exploring the functional consequences of STAT3 inhibition in HPV-positive cancer cells, we obtained several unexpected results. Chemical STAT3 inhibitors heterogeneously affect cervical cancer cell proliferation and those which act antiproliferative also block the growth of STAT3 knockout cells, indicating induction of off-target effects. In contrast to several chemical inhibitors, genetic inhibition of STAT3 expression by either RNA interference or the CRISPR/Cas9 method does not appreciably affect cervical cancer cell proliferation. Transcriptome analyses indicate that blocking STAT3 expression in HPV-positive cancer cells has very limited effects on putative STAT3 target genes. Although the targeted inhibition of specific growth-promoting signaling pathways leads to a feedback activation of STAT3 in cervical cancer cells via Janus kinase 1/2, this does not lead to treatment resistance. Moreover, we did not obtain experimental evidence for a STAT3-linked activation of HPV E6/E7 oncogene expression or, vice versa, an E6/E7-dependent activation of STAT3, at endogenous conditions in cervical cancer cells. Collectively, these findings question the essential role of STAT3 in cervical cancer cell proliferation and the strategy to inhibit STAT3 in these cells for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias D Strobel
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Weber
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nora Heber
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Angela Holzer
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karin Hoppe-Seyler
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Felix Hoppe-Seyler
- Molecular Therapy of Virus-Associated Cancers, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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12
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Yunianto I, Currie M, Chitcholtan K, Sykes P. Potential drug repurposing of ruxolitinib to inhibit the JAK/STAT pathway for the treatment of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2563-2574. [PMID: 37565583 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM This review aimed to describe the potential for therapeutic targeting of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway by repurposing the clinically-approved JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib in the patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (OC) setting. METHODS We reviewed publications that focus on the inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway in hematological and solid malignancies including OC. RESULTS Preclinical studies showed that ruxolitinib effectively reduces OC cell viability and metastasis and enhances the anti-tumor activity of chemotherapy drugs. There are a number of recent clinical trials exploring the role of JAK/STAT inhibition in solid cancers including OC. Early results have not adequately supported efficacy in solid tumors. However, there are preclinical data and clinical studies supporting the use of ruxolitinib in combination with both chemotherapy and other targeted drugs in OC setting. CONCLUSION Inflammatory conditions and persistent activation of the JAK/STAT pathway are associated with tumourigenesis and chemoresistance, and therapeutic blockade of this pathway shows promising results. For women with OC, clinical investigation exploring the role of ruxolitinib in combination with chemotherapy agents or other targeted therapeutics is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Yunianto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Department of Biology Education, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Indonesia
| | - Margaret Currie
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Kenny Chitcholtan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Peter Sykes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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13
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Jahangiri A, Ezzeddini R, Zounemat Kermani N, Bahrami F, Salek Farrokhi A. Combination of STAT3 inhibitor with Herceptin reduced immune checkpoints expression and provoked anti-breast cancer immunity: An in vitro study. Scand J Immunol 2023; 98:e13300. [PMID: 38441231 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13300] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent diagnosed cancer among women. Herceptin blocks the effects of Her-2 and tumour cell growth. Despite many achievements using Herceptin in Her-2+ invasive BC treatment, there are treatment failures and resistances. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is persistently activated in BC and is associated with immune suppression and tumour cell proliferation. We evaluated whether STAT3 inhibition could increase Herceptin impact on in vitro reduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors and polarize T cells to a protective immune response. We treated SK-BR-3 cells with Herceptin and the STAT3-inhibitor (FLLL32) and assessed the apoptosis and expression of apoptosis-related proteins, VEGF, Her-2 and apoptosis targets of STAT3. PBMCs were isolated from healthy donors and co-cultured with SK-BR-3 cells in the presence or absence of Herceptin and FLLL32. PD-L1, CTLA-4, TIM-3 and T-cell intracellular cytokines were then evaluated. Our results demonstrated that STAT3 inhibition and Herceptin increased SK-BR-3 cell apoptosis, significantly. STAT3 inhibition through combination treatment had a more significant effect on regulating PD-1, TIM-3 and CTLA-4 expression on PBMCs. Alternatively, the combination of FLLL32 and Herceptin promoted T helper-1 protective immune response. The combination of FLLL32 and Herceptin suppress the expression of immune checkpoints and provoke the T-helper1 immune response in lymphocytes. Our analysis indicates STAT3 as a promising target that improves Herceptin's role in breast cancer cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Jahangiri
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rana Ezzeddini
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fariborz Bahrami
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Wang Y, Zhou W, Chen J, Chen J, Deng P, Chen H, Sun Y, Yu Z, Pang D, Liu L, Wang P, Hong JH, Teh BT, Huang H, Li W, Yi Z, Lim ST, Chen Y, Ong CK, Liu M, Tan J. Preclinical characterization of WB737, a potent and selective STAT3 inhibitor, in natural killer/T-cell lymphoma. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e284. [PMID: 37334274 PMCID: PMC10274570 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (NKTL) is an uncommon malignancy with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Activating mutations of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) are frequently found in patients with NKTL, suggesting that targeted inhibition of STAT3 is a potential therapeutic option for this disease. Here, we have developed a small molecule drug WB737 as a novel and potent STAT3 inhibitor that directly binds to the STAT3-Src homology 2 domain with high affinity. In addition, the binding affinity of WB737 to STAT3 is 250-fold higher than STAT1 and STAT2. Interestingly, WB737 is more selective for NKTL with STAT3-activating mutations in terms of growth inhibition and apoptotic induction when compared with Stattic. Mechanistically, WB737 inhibits both canonical and noncanonical STAT3 signaling via suppression of STAT3 phosphorylation at Tyr705 and Ser727, respectively, thereby inhibiting the expression of c-Myc and mitochondria-related genes. Moreover, WB737 inhibited STAT3 more potently than Stattic, resulting in a significant antitumor effect with undetectable toxicity, followed by almost complete tumor regression in an NKTL xenograft model harboring a STAT3-activating mutation. Taken together, these findings provide preclinical proof-of-concept for WB737 as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of NKTL patients with STAT3-activating mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Wenbo Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Yuyao Biotech Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
| | - Jianfeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Department of Medical OncologyThe Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer HospitalZhengzhouChina
| | - Peng Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Huang Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Yuyao Biotech Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
| | - Yichen Sun
- Department of Laboratory MedicineGuangzhou First People's HospitalSchool of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhaoliang Yu
- Department of Colorectal SurgeryThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Diwen Pang
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesSchool of MedicineSouth China University of Technology, GuangzhouChina
| | - Lizhen Liu
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesSchool of MedicineSouth China University of Technology, GuangzhouChina
| | - Peili Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Jing Han Hong
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology ProgramDuke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
| | - Bin Tean Teh
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology ProgramDuke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
- Laboratory of Cancer EpigenomeDivision of Medical SciencesNational Cancer Centre SingaporeSingapore
| | - Huiqiang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Wenyu Li
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesSchool of MedicineSouth China University of Technology, GuangzhouChina
| | - Zhengfang Yi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Soon Thye Lim
- Director's Office, National Cancer Centre SingaporeSingapore
| | - Yihua Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Choon Kiat Ong
- Cancer and Stem Cell Biology ProgramDuke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingapore
- Division of Cellular and Molecular ResearchNational Cancer Centre SingaporeSingapore
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Yuyao Biotech Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South ChinaCollaborative Innovation Center of Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐Sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
- Laboratory of Cancer EpigenomeDivision of Medical SciencesNational Cancer Centre SingaporeSingapore
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15
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Faida P, Attiogbe MKI, Majeed U, Zhao J, Qu L, Fan D. Lung cancer treatment potential and limits associated with the STAT family of transcription factors. Cell Signal 2023:110797. [PMID: 37423343 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110797] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the mortal cancers and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality, with a cancer survival rate of fewer than 5% in developing nations. This low survival rate can be linked to things like late-stage detection, quick postoperative recurrences in patients receiving therapy, and chemoresistance developing against various lung cancer treatments. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family of transcription factors are involved in lung cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, immunological control, and treatment resistance. By interacting with specific DNA sequences, STAT proteins trigger the production of particular genes, which in turn result in adaptive and incredibly specific biological responses. In the human genome, seven STAT proteins have been discovered (STAT1 to STAT6, including STAT5a and STAT5b). Many external signaling proteins can activate unphosphorylated STATs (uSTATs), which are found inactively in the cytoplasm. When STAT proteins are activated, they can increase the transcription of several target genes, which leads to unchecked cellular proliferation, anti-apoptotic reactions, and angiogenesis. The effects of STAT transcription factors on lung cancer are variable; some are either pro- or anti-tumorigenic, while others maintain dual, context-dependent activities. Here, we give a succinct summary of the various functions that each member of the STAT family plays in lung cancer and go into more detail about the advantages and disadvantages of pharmacologically targeting STAT proteins and their upstream activators in the context of lung cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paison Faida
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China; Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Mawusse K I Attiogbe
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Usman Majeed
- College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China; Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Linlin Qu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China; Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Daidi Fan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China; Biotech. & Biomed. Research Institute, Northwest University, Taibai North Road 229, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
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16
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Ozbay Kurt FG, Lasser S, Arkhypov I, Utikal J, Umansky V. Enhancing immunotherapy response in melanoma: myeloid-derived suppressor cells as a therapeutic target. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e170762. [PMID: 37395271 DOI: 10.1172/jci170762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the remarkable success of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in melanoma treatment, resistance to them remains a substantial clinical challenge. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) represent a heterogeneous population of myeloid cells that can suppress antitumor immune responses mediated by T and natural killer cells and promote tumor growth. They are major contributors to ICI resistance and play a crucial role in creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, targeting MDSCs is considered a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of ICIs. This Review describes the mechanism of MDSC-mediated immune suppression, preclinical and clinical studies on MDSC targeting, and potential strategies for inhibiting MDSC functions to improve melanoma immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feyza Gul Ozbay Kurt
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Samantha Lasser
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ihor Arkhypov
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Viktor Umansky
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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17
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Bruni S, Mercogliano MF, Mauro FL, Cordo Russo RI, Schillaci R. Cancer immune exclusion: breaking the barricade for a successful immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1135456. [PMID: 37284199 PMCID: PMC10239871 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1135456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has changed the course of cancer treatment. The initial steps were made through tumor-specific antibodies that guided the setup of an antitumor immune response. A new and successful generation of antibodies are designed to target immune checkpoint molecules aimed to reinvigorate the antitumor immune response. The cellular counterpart is the adoptive cell therapy, where specific immune cells are expanded or engineered to target cancer cells. In all cases, the key for achieving positive clinical resolutions rests upon the access of immune cells to the tumor. In this review, we focus on how the tumor microenvironment architecture, including stromal cells, immunosuppressive cells and extracellular matrix, protects tumor cells from an immune attack leading to immunotherapy resistance, and on the available strategies to tackle immune evasion.
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18
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He N, Li L, Li R, Zhang SQ, Wu LH, Guan X, Zhang QY, Jiang T, Yang JB. A Novel Ageladine A Derivative Acts as a STAT3 Inhibitor and Exhibits Potential Antitumor Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108859. [PMID: 37240202 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108859] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway controls multiple biological processes, including cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Abnormally activated STAT3 signaling promotes tumor cell growth, proliferation, and survival, as well as tumor invasion, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression. Hence, JAK/STAT3 signaling has been considered a promising target for antitumor therapy. In this study, a number of ageladine A derivative compounds were synthesized. The most effective of these was found to be compound 25. Our results indicated that compound 25 had the greatest inhibitory effect on the STAT3 luciferase gene reporter. Molecular docking results showed that compound 25 could dock into the STAT3 SH2 structural domain. Western blot assays demonstrated that compound 25 selectively inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT3 on the Tyr705 residue, thereby reducing STAT3 downstream gene expression without affecting the expression of the upstream proteins, p-STAT1 and p-STAT5. Compound 25 also suppressed the proliferation and migration of A549 and DU145 cells. Finally, in vivo research revealed that 10 mg/kg of compound 25 effectively inhibited the growth of A549 xenograft tumors with persistent STAT3 activation without causing significant weight loss. These results clearly indicate that compound 25 could be a potential antitumor agent by inhibiting STAT3 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na He
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Rui Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Si-Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Li-Hong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Xian Guan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Qian-Yue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Jin-Bo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266100, China
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Hu C, Zhang Y, Wu C, Huang Q. Heterogeneity of cancer-associated fibroblasts in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: opportunities and challenges. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:124. [PMID: 37055382 PMCID: PMC10102018 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01428-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is among the most severe and complex malignant diseases with a high level of heterogeneity and, as a result, a wide range of therapeutic responses, regardless of clinical stage. Tumor progression depends on ongoing co-evolution and cross-talk with the tumor microenvironment (TME). In particular, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), embedded in the extracellular matrix (ECM), induce tumor growth and survival by interacting with tumor cells. Origin of CAFs is quite varied, and the activation patterns of CAFs are also heterogeneous. Crucially, the heterogeneity of CAFs appears to play a key role in ongoing tumor expansion, including facilitating proliferation, enhancing angiogenesis and invasion, and promoting therapy resistance, through the production of cytokines, chemokines, and other tumor-promotive molecules in the TME. This review describes the various origin and heterogeneous activation mechanisms of CAFs, and biological heterogeneity of CAFs in HNSCC is also included. Moreover, we have highlighted versatility of CAFs heterogeneity in HNSCC progression, and have discussed different tumor-promotive functions of CAFs respectively. In the future, it is a promising strategy for the therapy of HNSCC that specifically targeting tumor-promoting CAF subsets or the tumor-promoting functional targets of CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunping Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, 200031, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qiang Huang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, 200031, Shanghai, China.
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20
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Habtemariam S. Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutic Mechanisms of Natural Products: Insight from Rosemary Diterpenes, Carnosic Acid and Carnosol. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020545. [PMID: 36831081 PMCID: PMC9953345 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CAR) are two major diterpenes of the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis). They possess a phenolic structural moiety and are endowed with the power to remove cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) either through direct scavenging reaction or indirectly through upregulation of antioxidant defences. Hand in hand with these activities are their multiple biological effects and therapeutic potential orchestrated through modulating various signalling pathways of inflammation, including the NF-κB, MAPK, Nrf2, SIRT1, STAT3 and NLRP3 inflammasomes, among others. Consequently, they ameliorate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6), adhesion molecules, chemokines and prostaglandins. These anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action as a therapeutic link to various effects of these compounds, as in many other natural products, are scrutinised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Habtemariam
- Pharmacognosy Research & Herbal Analysis Services UK, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham-Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
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21
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Joo M, Kim D, Lee MW, Lee HJ, Kim JM. GDF15 Promotes Cell Growth, Migration, and Invasion in Gastric Cancer by Inducing STAT3 Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032925. [PMID: 36769245 PMCID: PMC9917887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) has been reported to play an important role in cancer and is secreted and involved in the progression of various cancers, including ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, and thyroid cancer. Nevertheless, the functional mechanism of GDF15 in gastric cancer is still unclear. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to estimate the expression of GDF15 in 178 gastric cancer tissues. The biological role and action mechanism of GDF15 were investigated by examining the effect of GDF15 knockdown in AGS and SNU216 gastric cancer cells. Here, we report that the high expression of GDF15 was associated with invasion depth (p = 0.002), nodal involvement (p = 0.003), stage III/IV (p = 0.01), lymphatic invasion (p = 0.05), and tumor size (p = 0.049), which are related to poor survival in gastric cancer patients. GDF15 knockdown induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and remarkably inhibited cell proliferation and reduced cell motility, migration, and invasion compared to the control. GDF15 knockdown inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition by regulating the STAT3 phosphorylation signaling pathways. Taken together, our results indicate that GDF15 expression is associated with aggressive gastric cancer by promoting STAT3 phosphorylation, suggesting that the GDF15-STAT3 signaling axis is a potential therapeutic target against gastric cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Joo
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyun Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Infection Control Convergence Research Center, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.J.L.); (J.-M.K.); Tel.: +82-42-280-8369 (H.J.L.); +82-42-580-8237 (J.-M.K.)
| | - Jin-Man Kim
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.J.L.); (J.-M.K.); Tel.: +82-42-280-8369 (H.J.L.); +82-42-580-8237 (J.-M.K.)
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22
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Ding L, Wang Q, Martincuks A, Kearns MJ, Jiang T, Lin Z, Cheng X, Qian C, Xie S, Kim HJ, Launonen IM, Färkkilä A, Roberts TM, Freeman GJ, Liu JF, Konstantinopoulos PA, Matulonis U, Yu H, Zhao JJ. STING agonism overcomes STAT3-mediated immunosuppression and adaptive resistance to PARP inhibition in ovarian cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e005627. [PMID: 36609487 PMCID: PMC9827255 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibition (PARPi) has demonstrated potent therapeutic efficacy in patients with BRCA-mutant ovarian cancer. However, acquired resistance to PARPi remains a major challenge in the clinic. METHODS PARPi-resistant ovarian cancer mouse models were generated by long-term treatment of olaparib in syngeneic Brca1-deficient ovarian tumors. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-mediated immunosuppression was investigated in vitro by co-culture experiments and in vivo by analysis of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of human and mouse PARPi-resistant tumors. Whole genome transcriptome analysis was performed to assess the antitumor immunomodulatory effect of STING (stimulator of interferon genes) agonists on myeloid cells in the TME of PARPi-resistant ovarian tumors. A STING agonist was used to overcome STAT3-mediated immunosuppression and acquired PARPi resistance in syngeneic and patient-derived xenografts models of ovarian cancer. RESULTS In this study, we uncover an adaptive resistance mechanism to PARP inhibition mediated by tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the TME. Markedly increased populations of protumor macrophages are found in BRCA-deficient ovarian tumors that rendered resistance to PARPi in both murine models and patients. Mechanistically, PARP inhibition elevates the STAT3 signaling pathway in tumor cells, which in turn promotes protumor polarization of TAMs. STAT3 ablation in tumor cells mitigates polarization of protumor macrophages and increases tumor-infiltrating T cells on PARP inhibition. These findings are corroborated in patient-derived, PARPi-resistant BRCA1-mutant ovarian tumors. Importantly, STING agonists reshape the immunosuppressive TME by reprogramming myeloid cells and overcome the TME-dependent adaptive resistance to PARPi in ovarian cancer. This effect is further enhanced by addition of the programmed cell death protein-1 blockade. CONCLUSIONS We elucidate an adaptive immunosuppression mechanism rendering resistance to PARPi in BRCA1-mutant ovarian tumors. This is mediated by enrichment of protumor TAMs propelled by PARPi-induced STAT3 activation in tumor cells. We also provide a new strategy to reshape the immunosuppressive TME with STING agonists and overcome PARPi resistance in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Ding
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Qiwei Wang
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Antons Martincuks
- Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Michael J Kearns
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tao Jiang
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ziying Lin
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Cheng
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Changli Qian
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shaozhen Xie
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hye-Jung Kim
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Anniina Färkkilä
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Thomas M Roberts
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gordon J Freeman
- Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joyce F Liu
- Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Ursula Matulonis
- Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hua Yu
- Immuno-Oncology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Jean J Zhao
- Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Program in Therapeutic Science, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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23
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Meraviglia-Crivelli D, Villanueva H, Zheleva A, Villalba-Esparza M, Moreno B, Menon AP, Calvo A, Cebollero J, Barainka M, de los Mozos IR, Huesa-Berral C, Pastor F. IL-6/STAT3 signaling in tumor cells restricts the expression of frameshift-derived neoantigens by SMG1 induction. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:211. [PMID: 36443756 PMCID: PMC9703761 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01679-6] [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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The quality and quantity of tumor neoantigens derived from tumor mutations determines the fate of the immune response in cancer. Frameshift mutations elicit better tumor neoantigens, especially when they are not targeted by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). For tumor progression, malignant cells need to counteract the immune response including the silencing of immunodominant neoantigens (antigen immunoediting) and promoting an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Although NMD inhibition has been reported to induce tumor immunity and increase the expression of cryptic neoantigens, the possibility that NMD activity could be modulated by immune forces operating in the tumor microenvironment as a new immunoediting mechanism has not been addressed. METHODS We study the effect of SMG1 expression (main kinase that initiates NMD) in the survival and the nature of the tumor immune infiltration using TCGA RNAseq and scRNAseq datasets of breast, lung and pancreatic cancer. Different murine tumor models were used to corroborate the antitumor immune dependencies of NMD. We evaluate whether changes of SMG1 expression in malignant cells impact the immune response elicited by cancer immunotherapy. To determine how NMD fluctuates in malignant cells we generated a luciferase reporter system to track NMD activity in vivo under different immune conditions. Cytokine screening, in silico studies and functional assays were conducted to determine the regulation of SMG1 via IL-6/STAT3 signaling. RESULTS IL-6/STAT3 signaling induces SMG1, which limits the expression of potent frameshift neoantigens that are under NMD control compromising the outcome of the immune response. CONCLUSION We revealed a new neoantigen immunoediting mechanism regulated by immune forces (IL-6/STAT3 signaling) responsible for silencing otherwise potent frameshift mutation-derived neoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Meraviglia-Crivelli
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Villanueva
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Angelina Zheleva
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - María Villalba-Esparza
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510 USA
| | - Beatriz Moreno
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ashwathi Puravankara Menon
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271IDISNA, CIBERONC, Program in Solid Tumors (CIMA), Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Avenida Pío XII, 55, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Javier Cebollero
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Martin Barainka
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Igor Ruiz de los Mozos
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Gene Therapy Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.424222.00000 0001 2242 5374Department of Personalized Medicine, NASERTIC, Government of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Carlos Huesa-Berral
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Department of Physics and Applied Mathematics, School of Science, University of Navarra, E-31008 Pamplona, Navarra Spain
| | - Fernando Pastor
- grid.5924.a0000000419370271Molecular Therapeutics Program, Center for Applied Medical Research, CIMA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.508840.10000 0004 7662 6114Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), Recinto de Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain ,grid.5924.a0000000419370271Department of Molecular Therapies, CIMA (Center for Applied Medical Research) University of Navarre, Av. de Pío XII, 55, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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24
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Su X, Tan Z, Wang G, Liu Z, Gan C, Yue L, Liu H, Xie Y, Yao Y, Ye T. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel diarylacylhydrazones derivatives for the efficient treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 245:114918. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Peripheral Inflammatory Indexes Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) as Prognostic Biomarkers in Advanced Solitary Fibrous Tumour (SFT) Treated with Pazopanib. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174186. [PMID: 36077723 PMCID: PMC9454647 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174186] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pazopanib was assessed prospectively in the GEIS-32 phase II study (NCT02066285) on advanced solitary fibrous tumour (SFT), resulting in a longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) compared with historical controls treated with chemotherapy. A retrospective analysis of peripheral inflammatory indexes in patients enrolled into GEIS-32 was performed to evaluate their prognostic and predictive value. Patients received pazopanib 800 mg/day as the first antiangiogenic line. The impacts of baseline neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and red cell distribution width (RDW) on PFS, OS, and Choi response were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Metastasis-free interval (MFI), mitotic count, and ECOG were also included as potential prognostic factors. Sixty-seven SFT patients, enrolled in this study, showed a median age of 63 years and a female/male distribution of 57/43. The median follow-up from treatment initiation was 16.8 months. High baseline NLR, PLR, and standardised RDW were significantly associated with worse PFS and OS. NLR, RDW, MFI, and mitotic count were independent variables for PFS, while RDW and ECOG were independent for OS. Further, NLR and mitotic count were independent factors for Choi response. High baseline NLR and RDW values were independent prognostic biomarkers for worse outcome in advanced SFT patients treated with pazopanib.
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26
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Pan L, Chen X, Rassool FV, Li C, Lin J. LLL12B, a Novel Small-Molecule STAT3 Inhibitor, Induces Apoptosis and Suppresses Cell Migration and Tumor Growth in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10082003. [PMID: 36009550 PMCID: PMC9405793 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10082003] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent STAT3 signaling plays a pivotal role in human tumor malignancy, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). There are few treatment options currently available for TNBC; thus, given its importance to cancer, STAT3 is a potential cancer therapeutic target and is the focus of drug discovery efforts. In this study, we tested a novel orally bioavailable small-molecule STAT3 inhibitor, LLL12B, in human MDA-MB-231, SUM159, and murine 4T1 TNBC cell lines. TNBC cells frequently expressed persistent STAT3 phosphorylation and their cell viability was sensitive to STAT3 knockdown by siRNA. LLL12B selectively inhibited the IL-6-mediated induction of STAT3 phosphorylation, but had little effect on the IFN-γ-mediated induction of STAT1 phosphorylation nor the EGF-mediated induction of ERK phosphorylation. In addition, targeting STAT3 with LLL12B induced apoptosis, reduced colony formation ability, and inhibited cell migration in TNBC cells. Furthermore, LLL12B suppressed the tumor growth of the MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells in a mammary fat pad mouse tumor model in vivo. Together, our findings support the concept that targeting persistent STAT3 signaling using the novel small-molecule LLL12B is a potential approach for TNBC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Xiang Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Feyruz Virgilia Rassool
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Chenglong Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Jiayuh Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Correspondence:
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27
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Dey P, Joshi M, Mujawar A, Malhotra R, De A. Direct knockdown of phospho-PTM targets mediated by TRIM21 can improve personalized treatment in breast cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2022; 45:873-891. [PMID: 35834098 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-022-00693-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this work for the first time, we showed specific and direct knockdown of important oncogenic proteins of interest and their phospho-PTM targets in tripartite motif containing-21 (TRIM21) overexpressing breast cancer (BC) cells. We revealed the functional and therapeutic consequences of this protein knockdown approach called 'TRIM-ing'. METHODS To target HER2, HER3, STAT3 or their activated forms, electroporation and puls-in transfection were standardized for mAb delivery in AU565 and MCF7 BC cell lines. Cancer cells were treated with HER2-targeted medicines (Trastuzumab and Neratinib) or STAT3 targeted inhibitors (Stattic and Niclosamide) with or without respective target TRIM-ing. Real-time PCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, cytotoxicity, short- and long-term cell survival assessments were done following standard methodologies. 3-D structure modelling was used to verify the binding of mAb onto the STAT3 target. RESULTS TRIM-ing of HER2 or HER3 receptors or their activated phospho-forms in BC cells showed rapid degradation of respective protein forms, shattering down the downstream signaling (p-ERK, p-AKT) that lasts for up to 7-8 days. This significantly inhibited BC survival (p < 0.001), showing a synergistic therapeutic effect with HER2 medicine trastuzumab or neratinib. Additionally, specific TRIM-ing ability of canonical pY705 or non-canonical pS727 PTMs of STAT3 protein was demonstrated in MCF7 cells, causing significant cytotoxicity (p < 0.05). TRIM-ing of STAT3 PTM, when combined with the same PTM-specific inhibitors, a synergistic treatment effect was observed. CONCLUSION The work demonstrated that TRIM-ing could directly reduce various oncogenic targets or their specific activated form inside the cancer cells without compensatory pathway activation, a conundrum limiting the therapeutic benefit of current personalized medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Dey
- Molecular Functional Imaging Laboratory, KS232c, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Sector 22, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India.,Faculty of Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Mansi Joshi
- Molecular Functional Imaging Laboratory, KS232c, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Sector 22, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India.,Faculty of Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Aaiyas Mujawar
- Molecular Functional Imaging Laboratory, KS232c, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Sector 22, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India.,Faculty of Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Renu Malhotra
- Molecular Functional Imaging Laboratory, KS232c, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Sector 22, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India
| | - Abhijit De
- Molecular Functional Imaging Laboratory, KS232c, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Sector 22, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, 410210, India. .,Faculty of Life Sciences, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.
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28
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Screening of potent STAT3-SH2 domain inhibitors from JAK/STAT compound library through molecular dynamics simulation. Mol Divers 2022:10.1007/s11030-022-10490-w. [PMID: 35831728 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10490-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) protein is activated consistently in the tumor cells and thus studied as a potent target for cancer prevention. The TYR705-phosphorylated (pTyr) STAT3 forms a homo-dimer by binding to its recognition site in the Src Homology 2 (SH2) domain of another STAT3 monomer, causing cellular survival, proliferation, inflammation, and tumor invasion. Many inhibitors of STAT3-SH2 have recently been identified using both computational and experimental approaches. In this study, we used molecular docking, Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion/Toxicological (ADME/tox) and molecular dynamics modeling to examine binding affinities and specificities of 191 inhibitor drugs from the SELLECKCHEM database. The binding free energies of the inhibitors were calculated by Induced Fit Docking (IFD) prime energy. The binding hotspots of STAT3-SH2 were evaluated via binding energy decomposition and hydrogen bond distribution analysis, and the inhibitor compound's stability was assessed through MD simulation. (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate, Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, Picroside I, Saikosaponin D, and Ginsenoside Rk1 were found to be the top hit inhibitor compounds. They exhibited an exceptional docking score, a low binding free energy, interacted with the key amino acid residue, and showed significant ADME/tox moderation. These compounds were further proved to be favorable by their stability in an MD simulation run for 100 ns using GROMACS software. The inhibitors (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate, Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and Saikosaponin D show improved stability in molecular dynamic modeling and are expected to have a significant STAT3-SH2 inhibitory effect against cancer.
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Sharma S, Malhotra L, Yadav P, Mishra V, Sharma RS, Abdul Samath E. Genistein: A novel inhibitor of IL-6/IL-6R interface of the Interleukin-6–mediated STAT3 dependent pathway of carcinogenesis. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.132668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Clowers MJ, Moghaddam SJ. Cell Type-Specific Roles of STAT3 Signaling in the Pathogenesis and Progression of K-ras Mutant Lung Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071785. [PMID: 35406557 PMCID: PMC8997152 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Lung adenocarcinomas with mutations in the K-ras gene are hard to target pharmacologically and highly lethal. As a result, there is a need to identify other therapeutic targets that influence K-ras oncogenesis. One contender is STAT3, a transcription factor that is associated with K-ras mutations and aids tumor development and progression through tumor cell intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the lung epithelial and infiltrating immune cells that express STAT3, the roles of STAT3 in K-ras mutant lung adenocarcinoma, and therapies that may be able to target STAT3. Abstract Worldwide, lung cancer, particularly K-ras mutant lung adenocarcinoma (KM-LUAD), is the leading cause of cancer mortality because of its high incidence and low cure rate. To treat and prevent KM-LUAD, there is an urgent unmet need for alternative strategies targeting downstream effectors of K-ras and/or its cooperating pathways. Tumor-promoting inflammation, an enabling hallmark of cancer, strongly participates in the development and progression of KM-LUAD. However, our knowledge of the dynamic inflammatory mechanisms, immunomodulatory pathways, and cell-specific molecular signals mediating K-ras-induced lung tumorigenesis is substantially deficient. Nevertheless, within this signaling complexity, an inflammatory pathway is emerging as a druggable target: signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Here, we review the cell type-specific functions of STAT3 in the pathogenesis and progression of KM-LUAD that could serve as a new target for personalized preventive and therapeutic intervention for this intractable form of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Clowers
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Seyed Javad Moghaddam
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence:
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Heppler LN, Attarha S, Persaud R, Brown JI, Wang P, Petrova B, Tošić I, Burton FB, Flamand Y, Walker SR, Yeh JE, Zubarev RA, Gaetani M, Kanarek N, Page BDG, Frank DA. The antimicrobial drug pyrimethamine inhibits STAT3 transcriptional activity by targeting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101531. [PMID: 34953855 PMCID: PMC8800111 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is often characterized by aberrant gene expression patterns caused by the inappropriate activation of transcription factors. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a key transcriptional regulator of many protumorigenic processes and is persistently activated in many types of human cancer. However, like many transcription factors, STAT3 has proven difficult to target clinically. To address this unmet clinical need, we previously developed a cell-based assay of STAT3 transcriptional activity and performed an unbiased and high-throughput screen of small molecules known to be biologically active in humans. We identified the antimicrobial drug pyrimethamine as a novel and specific inhibitor of STAT3 transcriptional activity. Here, we show that pyrimethamine does not significantly affect STAT3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, or DNA binding at concentrations sufficient to inhibit STAT3 transcriptional activity, suggesting a potentially novel mechanism of inhibition. To identify the direct molecular target of pyrimethamine and further elucidate the mechanism of action, we used a new quantitative proteome profiling approach called proteome integral solubility alteration coupled with a metabolomic analysis. We identified human dihydrofolate reductase as a target of pyrimethamine and demonstrated that the STAT3-inhibitory effects of pyrimethamine are the result of a deficiency in reduced folate downstream of dihydrofolate reductase inhibition, implicating folate metabolism in the regulation of STAT3 transcriptional activity. This study reveals a previously unknown regulatory node of the STAT3 pathway that may be important for the development of novel strategies to treat STAT3-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa N Heppler
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sanaz Attarha
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rosanne Persaud
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jennifer I Brown
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Boryana Petrova
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isidora Tošić
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Foster B Burton
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yael Flamand
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber-Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah R Walker
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer E Yeh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Roman A Zubarev
- Division of Physiological Chemistry I, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Chemical Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Pharmacological & Technological Chemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Massimiliano Gaetani
- Division of Physiological Chemistry I, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Chemical Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Naama Kanarek
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brent D G Page
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - David A Frank
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Ma J, Shi Q, Guo S, Xu P, Yi X, Yang Y, Zhang W, Liu Y, Liu L, Yue Q, Zhao T, Gao T, Guo W, Li C. Long Non-Coding RNA CD27-AS1-208 Facilitates Melanoma Progression by Activating STAT3 Pathway. Front Oncol 2022; 11:818178. [PMID: 35096622 PMCID: PMC8791859 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.818178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer that originates from epidermal melanocytes. Recently, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators of cancer pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. However, the expression profile of lncRNAs and their role in melanoma progression have not been thoroughly investigated. Herein, we firstly obtained the expression profile of lncRNAs in primary melanomas using microarray analysis and unveiled the differentially-expressed lncRNAs compared with nevus. Subsequently, a series of bioinformatics analysis showed the great involvement of dysregulated lncRNAs in melanoma biology and immune response. Further, we identified lncRNA CD27-AS1-208 as a novel nuclear-localized factor with prominent facilitative role in melanoma cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Mechanistically, CD27-AS1-208 could directly interact with STAT3 and contribute to melanoma progression in a STAT3-dependent manner. Ultimately, the role of CD27-AS1-208 in melanoma progression in vivo was also investigated. Collectively, the present study offers us a new horizon to better understand the role of lncRNAs in melanoma pathogenesis and demonstrates that CD27-AS1-208 up-regulation contributes to melanoma progression by activating STAT3 pathway. Targeting CD27-AS1-208 in melanoma cells can be exploited as a potential therapeutic approach that needs forward validation in clinical trials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Weinan Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chunying Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
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Gutierrez DA, Contreras L, Villanueva PJ, Borrego EA, Morán-Santibañez K, Hess JD, DeJesus R, Larragoity M, Betancourt AP, Mohl JE, Robles-Escajeda E, Begum K, Roy S, Kirken RA, Varela-Ramirez A, Aguilera RJ. Identification of a Potent Cytotoxic Pyrazole with Anti-Breast Cancer Activity That Alters Multiple Pathways. Cells 2022; 11:254. [PMID: 35053370 PMCID: PMC8773755 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we identified a novel pyrazole-based derivative (P3C) that displayed potent cytotoxicity against 27 human cancer cell lines derived from different tissue origins with 50% cytotoxic concentrations (CC50) in the low micromolar and nanomolar range, particularly in two triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines (from 0.25 to 0.49 µM). In vitro assays revealed that P3C induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation leading to mitochondrial depolarization and caspase-3/7 and -8 activation, suggesting the participation of both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. P3C caused microtubule disruption, phosphatidylserine externalization, PARP cleavage, DNA fragmentation, and cell cycle arrest on TNBC cells. In addition, P3C triggered dephosphorylation of CREB, p38, ERK, STAT3, and Fyn, and hyperphosphorylation of JNK and NF-kB in TNBC cells, indicating the inactivation of both p38MAPK/STAT3 and ERK1/2/CREB signaling pathways. In support of our in vitro assays, transcriptome analyses of two distinct TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells) treated with P3C revealed 28 genes similarly affected by the treatment implicated in apoptosis, oxidative stress, protein kinase modulation, and microtubule stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denisse A. Gutierrez
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Lisett Contreras
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Paulina J. Villanueva
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Edgar A. Borrego
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Karla Morán-Santibañez
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Jessica D. Hess
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Rebecca DeJesus
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Manuel Larragoity
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Ana P. Betancourt
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Jonathon E. Mohl
- Department of Bioinformatics, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA;
| | - Elisa Robles-Escajeda
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Khodeza Begum
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Sourav Roy
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Robert A. Kirken
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Armando Varela-Ramirez
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
| | - Renato J. Aguilera
- Cellular Characterization and Biorepository Core Facility, Border Biomedical Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, The University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA; (D.A.G.); (L.C.); (P.J.V.); (E.A.B.); (K.M.-S.); (J.D.H.); (R.D.); (M.L.); (A.P.B.); (E.R.-E.); (K.B.); (S.R.); (R.A.K.); (A.V.-R.)
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Zeinalzadeh E, Valerievich Yumashev A, Rahman HS, Marofi F, Shomali N, Kafil HS, Solali S, Sajjadi-Dokht M, Vakili-Samiani S, Jarahian M, Hagh MF. The Role of Janus Kinase/STAT3 Pathway in Hematologic Malignancies With an Emphasis on Epigenetics. Front Genet 2021; 12:703883. [PMID: 34992627 PMCID: PMC8725977 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.703883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway has been known to be involved in cell growth, cellular differentiation processes development, immune cell survival, and hematopoietic system development. As an important member of the STAT family, STAT3 participates as a major regulator of cellular development and differentiation-associated genes. Prolonged and persistent STAT3 activation has been reported to be associated with tumor cell survival, proliferation, and invasion. Therefore, the JAK-STAT pathway can be a potential target for drug development to treat human cancers, e.g., hematological malignancies. Although STAT3 upregulation has been reported in hematopoietic cancers, protein-level STAT3 mutations have also been reported in invasive leukemias/lymphomas. The principal role of STAT3 in tumor cell growth clarifies the importance of approaches that downregulate this molecule. Epigenetic modifications are a major regulatory mechanism controlling the activity and function of STAT3. So far, several compounds have been developed to target epigenetic regulatory enzymes in blood malignancies. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about STAT3 abnormalities and carcinogenic functions in hematopoietic cancers, novel STAT3 inhibitors, the role of epigenetic mechanisms in STAT3 regulation, and targeted therapies, by focusing on STAT3-related epigenetic modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Zeinalzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Heshu Sulaiman Rahman
- College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Komar University of Science and Technology, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
| | - Faroogh Marofi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- German Cancer Research Center, Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit (G401), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Saeed Solali
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sajjadi-Dokht
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sajjad Vakili-Samiani
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Jarahian
- German Cancer Research Center, Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit (G401), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Majid Farshdousti Hagh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Yang MH, Ha IJ, Lee SG, Um JY, Ahn KS. Abrogation of STAT3 activation cascade by Ginkgolide C mitigates tumourigenesis in lung cancer preclinical model. J Pharm Pharmacol 2021; 73:1630-1642. [PMID: 34559878 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgab114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Ginkgolide C (GGC) isolated from Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae) leaf can demonstrate pleiotropic pharmacological actions. However, its anti-oncogenic impact in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) model has not been reconnoitered. As signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) cascade can promote tumour growth and survival, we contemplated that GGC may interrupt this signalling cascade to expend its anti-cancer actions in NSCLC. METHODS The effect of GGC on STAT3 activation, associated protein kinases, STAT3-regulated gene products, cellular proliferation and apoptosis was examined. The in-vivo effect of GGC on the growth of human NSCLC xenograft tumours in athymic nu/nu female mice was also investigated. KEY FINDINGS GGC attenuated the phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT3 upstream kinases effectively. Exposure to pervanadate modulated GGC-induced down-regulation of STAT3 activation and promoted an elevation in the level of PTPε protein. Indeed, silencing of the PTPε gene reversed the GGC-promoted abrogation of STAT3 activation and apoptosis. Moreover, GGC exposure significantly reduced NSCLC tumour growth without demonstrating significant adverse effects via decreasing levels of p-STAT3 in mice tissues. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the findings support that GGC may exhibit anti-neoplastic actions by mitigation of STAT3 signalling cascade in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Yang
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In Jin Ha
- Korean Medicine Clinical Trial Center (K-CTC), Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Geun Lee
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Korean Medicine Clinical Trial Center (K-CTC), Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Um
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Wang L, Astone M, Alam SK, Zhu Z, Pei W, Frank DA, Burgess SM, Hoeppner LH. Suppressing STAT3 activity protects the endothelial barrier from VEGF-mediated vascular permeability. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:272222. [PMID: 34542605 PMCID: PMC8592016 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular permeability triggered by inflammation or ischemia promotes edema, exacerbates disease progression and impairs tissue recovery. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent inducer of vascular permeability. VEGF plays an integral role in regulating vascular barrier function physiologically and in pathologies, including cancer, stroke, cardiovascular disease, retinal conditions and COVID-19-associated pulmonary edema, sepsis and acute lung injury. Understanding temporal molecular regulation of VEGF-induced vascular permeability will facilitate developing therapeutics to inhibit vascular permeability, while preserving tissue-restorative angiogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that VEGF signals through signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to promote vascular permeability. We show that genetic STAT3 ablation reduces vascular permeability in STAT3-deficient endothelium of mice and VEGF-inducible zebrafish crossed with CRISPR/Cas9-generated Stat3 knockout zebrafish. Intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) expression is transcriptionally regulated by STAT3, and VEGF-dependent STAT3 activation is regulated by JAK2. Pyrimethamine, an FDA-approved antimicrobial agent that inhibits STAT3-dependent transcription, substantially reduces VEGF-induced vascular permeability in zebrafish, mouse and human endothelium. Collectively, our findings suggest that VEGF/VEGFR-2/JAK2/STAT3 signaling regulates vascular barrier integrity, and inhibition of STAT3-dependent activity reduces VEGF-induced vascular permeability. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: Genetic STAT3 ablation in mice and VEGF-inducible zebrafish reveals that VEGF signals through STAT3 to promote vascular permeability. Pyrimethamine reduces VEGF-induced permeability in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
| | - Matteo Astone
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
| | - Sk Kayum Alam
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
| | - Zhu Zhu
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
| | - Wuhong Pei
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - David A Frank
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Shawn M Burgess
- Translational and Functional Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Luke H Hoeppner
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Arora L, Mohan CD, Yang MH, Rangappa S, Deivasigamani A, Kumar AP, Kunnumakkara AB, Garg M, Chinnathambi A, Alharbi SA, Alahmadi TA, Rangappa KS, Hui KM, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (Tris DBA) Abrogates Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Multiple Myeloma Preclinical Models by Regulating the STAT3 Signaling Pathway. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215479. [PMID: 34771643 PMCID: PMC8582575 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary STAT3 is a major oncogenic transcription factor that is constitutively activated in many types of human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Many STAT3 inhibitors have gained momentum in clinical trials towards the treatment of various cancers. In the present study, we have investigated the STAT3 inhibitory efficacy of Tris DBA, a palladium-based compound, in HCC and MM cancer cells and preclinical cancer models. Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (Tris DBA) abrogated the STAT3 signaling pathway in both models by elevating the expression of SHP2. Functionally, Tris DBA inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and regressed tumor metastasis. Although many studies propose Tris DBA as a modulator of MAPK, Akt, phospho-S6 kinase, and N-myristoyltransferase-1, we have comprehensively demonstrated for the first time that Tris DBA is an inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical cancer models. These results support the consideration of Tris DBA in clinical trials in translational relevance. Abstract STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that controls the expression of genes associated with oncogenesis and malignant progression. Persistent activation of STAT3 is observed in human malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Here, we have investigated the action of Tris(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium 0 (Tris DBA) on STAT3 signaling in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, and inhibited IL-6 induced/constitutive activation of STAT3, JAK1, JAK2, and Src in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA downmodulated the nuclear translocation of STAT3 and reduced its DNA binding ability. It upregulated the expression of SHP2 (protein and mRNA) to induce STAT3 dephosphorylation, and the inhibition of SHP2 reversed this effect. Tris DBA downregulated the expression of STAT3-driven genes, suppressed cell migration/invasion. Tris DBA significantly inhibited tumor growth in xenograft MM and orthotopic HCC preclinical mice models with a reduction in the expression of various prosurvival biomarkers in MM tumor tissues without displaying significant toxicity. Overall, Tris DBA functions as a good inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical HCC and MM models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukik Arora
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; (L.A.); (A.P.K.)
| | | | - Min Hee Yang
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology and Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea;
| | - Shobith Rangappa
- Adichunchanagiri Institute for Molecular Medicine, Adichunchanagiri University, BG Nagara, Nagamangala Taluk 571448, India;
| | - Amudha Deivasigamani
- National Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, Singapore 169610, Singapore;
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; (L.A.); (A.P.K.)
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, and Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
| | - Ajaikumar B. Kunnumakkara
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, India;
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida 201313, India;
| | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.C.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.C.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Tahani Awad Alahmadi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, King Khalid University Hospital, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Kam Man Hui
- National Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, Singapore 169610, Singapore;
- Correspondence: (K.M.H.); (G.S.); (K.S.A.)
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; (L.A.); (A.P.K.)
- Correspondence: (K.M.H.); (G.S.); (K.S.A.)
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology and Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea;
- Correspondence: (K.M.H.); (G.S.); (K.S.A.)
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Martínez-Pérez C, Kay C, Meehan J, Gray M, Dixon JM, Turnbull AK. The IL6-like Cytokine Family: Role and Biomarker Potential in Breast Cancer. J Pers Med 2021; 11:1073. [PMID: 34834425 PMCID: PMC8624266 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111073] [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: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IL6-like cytokines are a family of regulators with a complex, pleiotropic role in both the healthy organism, where they regulate immunity and homeostasis, and in different diseases, including cancer. Here we summarise how these cytokines exert their effect through the shared signal transducer IL6ST (gp130) and we review the extensive evidence on the role that different members of this family play in breast cancer. Additionally, we discuss how the different cytokines, their related receptors and downstream effectors, as well as specific polymorphisms in these molecules, can serve as predictive or prognostic biomarkers with the potential for clinical application in breast cancer. Lastly, we also discuss how our increasing understanding of this complex signalling axis presents promising opportunities for the development or repurposing of therapeutic strategies against cancer and, specifically, breast neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Martínez-Pérez
- Breast Cancer Now Edinburgh Research Team, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; (C.K.); (J.M.D.); (A.K.T.)
- Translational Oncology Research Group, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK; (J.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Charlene Kay
- Breast Cancer Now Edinburgh Research Team, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; (C.K.); (J.M.D.); (A.K.T.)
- Translational Oncology Research Group, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK; (J.M.); (M.G.)
| | - James Meehan
- Translational Oncology Research Group, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK; (J.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Mark Gray
- Translational Oncology Research Group, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK; (J.M.); (M.G.)
| | - J. Michael Dixon
- Breast Cancer Now Edinburgh Research Team, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; (C.K.); (J.M.D.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Arran K. Turnbull
- Breast Cancer Now Edinburgh Research Team, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; (C.K.); (J.M.D.); (A.K.T.)
- Translational Oncology Research Group, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Western General Hospital, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK; (J.M.); (M.G.)
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Pyrimidine-2,4-dione targets STAT3 signaling pathway to induce cytotoxicity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 50:128332. [PMID: 34418571 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.128332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a tumorigenic transcription factor that is persistently activated in various human cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, STAT3 is considered as a prominent target to counteract the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. In the present report, pyrimidine-2,4-diones (N-methyluracil derivatives) (MNK1-MNK14) were synthesized in an ionic liquid (BMIm PF6) medium employing a ligand-free Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling process. Among the 14 derivatives, compound MNK8 showed good cytotoxicity towards both the tested cell lines and did not display a toxic effect against normal hepatocytes (LO2). MNK8 significantly increased the Sub-G1 cell count in both cell lines and the cytotoxic effect of MNK8 was found to be mediated through the suppression of constitutive phosphorylation of STAT3Y705. It also decreased the DNA interaction ability of nuclear STAT3 in HCC cells. MNK8 downregulated the levels of apoptosis-related proteins (such as Bcl-2, cyclin D1, survivin) and increased cleaved caspase-3 inferring the apoptogenic effect of MNK8. It also reduced the CXCL12-triggered cell migration and invasion in in vitro assay systems. Overall, MNK8 has been demonstrated as a new inhibitor of STAT3 signaling cascade in HCC cells.
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Hofer F, Di Sario G, Musiu C, Sartoris S, De Sanctis F, Ugel S. A Complex Metabolic Network Confers Immunosuppressive Functions to Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) within the Tumour Microenvironment. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102700. [PMID: 34685679 PMCID: PMC8534848 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) constitute a plastic and heterogeneous cell population among immune cells within the tumour microenvironment (TME) that support cancer progression and resistance to therapy. During tumour progression, cancer cells modify their metabolism to sustain an increased energy demand to cope with uncontrolled cell proliferation and differentiation. This metabolic reprogramming of cancer establishes competition for nutrients between tumour cells and leukocytes and most importantly, among tumour-infiltrating immune cells. Thus, MDSCs that have emerged as one of the most decisive immune regulators of TME exhibit an increase in glycolysis and fatty acid metabolism and also an upregulation of enzymes that catabolise essential metabolites. This complex metabolic network is not only crucial for MDSC survival and accumulation in the TME but also for enhancing immunosuppressive functions toward immune effectors. In this review, we discuss recent progress in the field of MDSC-associated metabolic pathways that could facilitate therapeutic targeting of these cells during cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Stefano Ugel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-8126451; Fax: +39-045-8126455
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Mohan CD, Kim C, Siveen KS, Manu KA, Rangappa S, Chinnathambi A, Alharbi SA, Rangappa KS, Kumar AP, Ahn KS. Crocetin imparts antiproliferative activity via inhibiting STAT3 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. IUBMB Life 2021; 73:1348-1362. [PMID: 34514729 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
STAT3 is a key oncogenic transcription factor, often overactivated in several human cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). STAT3 modulates the expression of genes that are connected with cell proliferation, antiapoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and immune evasion in tumor cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of crocetin on the growth of HCC cells and dissected its underlying molecular mechanism in imparting a cytotoxic effect. Crocetin suppressed proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and counteracted the invasive capacity of HCC cells. Besides, crocetin downregulated the constitutive/inducible STAT3 activation (STAT3Y705 ), nuclear accumulation of STAT3 along with suppression of its DNA binding activity in HCC cells with no effect on STAT5 activation. Crocetin suppressed the activity of upstream kinases such as Src, JAK1, and JAK2. Sodium pervanadate treatment terminated the crocetin-propelled STAT3 inhibition suggesting the involvement of tyrosine phosphatases. Crocetin increased the expression of SHP-1 and siRNA-mediated SHP-1 silencing resulted in the negation of crocetin-driven STAT3 inhibition. Further investigation revealed that crocetin treatment inhibited the expression of STAT3 regulated genes (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, survivin, VEGF, COX-2, and MMP-9). Taken together, this report presents crocetin as a novel abrogator of the STAT3 pathway in HCC cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chulwon Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kodappully Sivaraman Siveen
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Shobith Rangappa
- Adichunchanagiri Institute for Molecular Medicine, Adichunchanagiri University, BG Nagara, Nagamangala Taluk, Karnataka, India
| | - Arunachalam Chinnathambi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ali S, Khan MR, Iqbal J, Batool R, Naz I, Yaseen T, Abbasi BA, Nasir JA, El-Serehy HA. Chemical composition and pharmacological bio-efficacy of Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana (Decne) Rehder for anticancer activity. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:4969-4986. [PMID: 34466072 PMCID: PMC8381063 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.07.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Consistent STAT3 (Single transducer and activator of transcription 3) activation is observed in many tumors and promotes malignant cell transformation. In the present investigation, we evaluated the anticancer effects of Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana methanol fraction (PJM) on STAT3 inhibition in HCCLM3 and MDA-MB 231 cells. PJM suppressed the activation of upstream kinases i.e. JAK-1/2 (Janus kinase-1/2), and c-Src (Proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase c-Src), and upregulated the expression levels of PIAS-1/3 (Protein Inhibitor of Activated STATs-1/3), SHP-1/2 (Src-homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase-1/2), and PTP-1β (Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 β) which negatively regulate STAT3 signaling pathway. PJM also decreased the levels of protein products conferring to various oncogenes, which in turn repressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis in cancer cell lines. The growth inhibitory effects of PJM on cell-cycle and metastasis were correlated with decreased expression levels of CyclinD1, CyclinE, MMP-2 (Matrix metalloproteinases-2), and MMP-9 (Matrix metalloproteinases-9). Induction of apoptosis was indicated by the cleavage and subsequent activation of Caspases (Cysteine-dependent Aspartate-directed Proteases) i.e. caspase-3, 7, 8, 9, and PARP (Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase) as well as through the down-regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins. These apoptotic effects of PJM were preceded by inhibition of STAT3 cell-signaling pathway. STAT3 was needed for PJM-induced apoptosis, and inhibition of STAT3 via pharmacological inhibitor (Stattic; SC-203282) abolished the apoptotic effects. Conclusively, our results demonstrate the capability of PJM to inhibit cancer cell-proliferation and induce apoptosis by suppressing STAT3 via upregulation of STAT3 inhibitors and pro-apoptotic proteins whereas the down-regulation of upstream kinases and anti-apoptotic protein expression. In future, one-step advance studies of PHM regarding its role in metastatic inhibition, immune response modulation for reducing tumor, and inducing apoptosis in suitable animal models would be an interesting and promising research area.
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Key Words
- Apoptosis
- BAK, Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer
- BAX, Bcl-2-Associate X protein
- BCL-XL, B-cell lymphoma-extra large
- Cancer
- HCCLM3
- JAK-1/2, Janus kinase-1/2
- MDA–MB 231
- MMP-2/9, Matrix metalloproteinases-2/9
- MTT, 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl) −2,5 diphenyltetrazoliumbromide
- PARP, Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase
- PIAS-1/3, Protein Inhibitor of Activated STATs-1/3
- Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana
- SHP-1/2, Src-homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase-1/2
- STAT3
- STAT3, Single transducer and activator of transcription 3
- Stattic
- XIAP, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Ali
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rashid Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Javed Iqbal
- Department of Botany, Bacha Khan University, Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Riffat Batool
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Irum Naz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Tabassum Yaseen
- Department of Botany, Bacha Khan University, Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Banzeer Ahsan Abbasi
- Department of Plant Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Jamal Abdul Nasir
- University College London, Kathleen Lonsdale Materials Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, 20 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AJ, UK
| | - Hamed A El-Serehy
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh l1451, Saudi Arabia
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Dhall A, Patiyal S, Sharma N, Devi NL, Raghava GPS. Computer-aided prediction of inhibitors against STAT3 for managing COVID-19 associated cytokine storm. Comput Biol Med 2021; 137:104780. [PMID: 34450382 PMCID: PMC8378993 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Proinflammatory cytokines are correlated with the severity of disease in patients with COVID-19. IL6-mediated activation of STAT3 proliferates proinflammatory responses that lead to cytokine storm promotion. Thus, STAT3 inhibitors may play a crucial role in managing the COVID-19 pathogenesis. The present study discusses a method for predicting inhibitors against the STAT3 signaling pathway. Method The main dataset comprises 1565 STAT3 inhibitors and 1671 non-inhibitors used for training, testing, and evaluation of models. A number of machine learning classifiers have been implemented to develop the models. Results The outcomes of the data analysis show that rings and aromatic groups are significantly abundant in STAT3 inhibitors compared to non-inhibitors. First, we developed models using 2-D and 3-D chemical descriptors and achieved a maximum AUC of 0.84 and 0.73, respectively. Second, fingerprints are used to build predictive models and achieved 0.86 AUC with an accuracy of 78.70% on the validation dataset. Finally, models were developed using hybrid descriptors, which achieved a maximum of 0.87 AUC with 78.55% accuracy on the validation dataset. Conclusion We used the best model to identify STAT3 inhibitors in FDA-approved drugs and found few drugs (e.g., Tamoxifen and Perindopril) to manage the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. A webserver “STAT3In” (https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/stat3in/) has been developed to predict and design STAT3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Dhall
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi, 110020, India.
| | - Sumeet Patiyal
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi, 110020, India.
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi, 110020, India.
| | - Naorem Leimarembi Devi
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi, 110020, India.
| | - Gajendra P S Raghava
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi, 110020, India.
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Bosch-Barrera J, Verdura S, Ruffinelli JC, Carcereny E, Sais E, Cuyàs E, Palmero R, Lopez-Bonet E, Hernández-Martínez A, Oliveras G, Buxó M, Izquierdo A, Morán T, Nadal E, Menendez JA. Silibinin Suppresses Tumor Cell-Intrinsic Resistance to Nintedanib and Enhances Its Clinical Activity in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4168. [PMID: 34439322 PMCID: PMC8394850 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The anti-angiogenic agent nintedanib has been shown to prolong overall and progression-free survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who progress after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and second-line immunotherapy. Here, we explored the molecular basis and the clinical benefit of incorporating the STAT3 inhibitor silibinin-a flavonolignan extracted from milk thistle-into nintedanib-based schedules in advanced NSCLC. First, we assessed the nature of the tumoricidal interaction between nintedanib and silibinin and the underlying relevance of STAT3 activation in a panel of human NSCLC cell lines. NSCLC cells with poorer cytotoxic responses to nintedanib exhibited a persistent, nintedanib-unresponsive activated STAT3 state, and deactivation by co-treatment with silibinin promoted synergistic cytotoxicity. Second, we tested whether silibinin could impact the lysosomal sequestration of nintedanib, a lung cancer cell-intrinsic mechanism of nintedanib resistance. Silibinin partially, but significantly, reduced the massive lysosomal entrapment of nintedanib occurring in nintedanib-refractory NSCLC cells, augmenting the ability of nintedanib to reach its intracellular targets. Third, we conducted a retrospective, observational multicenter study to determine the efficacy of incorporating an oral nutraceutical product containing silibinin in patients with NSCLC receiving a nintedanib/docetaxel combination in second- and further-line settings (n = 59). Overall response rate, defined as the combined rates of complete and partial responses, was significantly higher in the study cohort receiving silibinin supplementation (55%) than in the control cohort (22%, p = 0.011). Silibinin therapy was associated with a significantly longer time to treatment failure in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio 0.43, p = 0.013), despite the lack of overall survival benefit (hazard ratio 0.63, p = 0.190). Molecular mechanisms dictating the cancer cell-intrinsic responsiveness to nintedanib, such as STAT3 activation and lysosomal trapping, are amenable to pharmacological intervention with silibinin. A prospective, powered clinical trial is warranted to confirm the clinical relevance of these findings in patients with advanced NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Bosch-Barrera
- Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.H.-M.); (A.I.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical School, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain; (S.V.); (E.C.); (M.B.)
| | - Sara Verdura
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain; (S.V.); (E.C.); (M.B.)
| | - José Carlos Ruffinelli
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Duran i Reynals, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (J.C.R.); (R.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Enric Carcereny
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.C.); (T.M.)
- B-ARGO Group (Badalona Applied Research Group in Oncology), Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Elia Sais
- Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.H.-M.); (A.I.)
| | - Elisabet Cuyàs
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain; (S.V.); (E.C.); (M.B.)
| | - Ramon Palmero
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Duran i Reynals, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (J.C.R.); (R.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Eugeni Lopez-Bonet
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.L.-B.); (G.O.)
| | - Alejandro Hernández-Martínez
- Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.H.-M.); (A.I.)
| | - Gloria Oliveras
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.L.-B.); (G.O.)
| | - Maria Buxó
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain; (S.V.); (E.C.); (M.B.)
| | - Angel Izquierdo
- Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Dr. Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain; (E.S.); (A.H.-M.); (A.I.)
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical School, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Epidemiology Unit and Girona Cancer Registry, Oncology Coordination Plan, Catalan Institute of Oncology-Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17007 Girona, Spain
| | - Teresa Morán
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (E.C.); (T.M.)
- B-ARGO Group (Badalona Applied Research Group in Oncology), Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Ernest Nadal
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Duran i Reynals, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (J.C.R.); (R.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Javier A. Menendez
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain; (S.V.); (E.C.); (M.B.)
- Program against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism & Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, 17190 (Salt) Girona, Spain
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Gargalionis AN, Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG. Targeting STAT3 Signaling Pathway in Colorectal Cancer. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9081016. [PMID: 34440220 PMCID: PMC8392110 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a critical transcription factor that has been firmly associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation and development. STAT3 mediates key inflammatory mechanisms in colitis-associated cancer, becomes excessively activated in CRC, and enhances cancer cell proliferation, tumor growth, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. STAT3 hyperactivation in malignant cells, surrounding immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts, mediates inhibition of the innate and adaptive immunity of the tumor microenvironment, and, therefore, tumor evasion from the immune system. These features highlight STAT3 as a promising therapeutic target; however, the mechanisms underlying these features have not been fully elucidated yet and STAT3 inhibitors have not reached the clinic in everyday practice. In the present article, we review the STAT3 signaling network in CRC and highlight the current notion for the design of STAT3-focused treatment approaches. We also discuss recent breakthroughs in combination immunotherapy regimens containing STAT3 inhibitors, therefore providing a new perception for the clinical application of STAT3 in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios N. Gargalionis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.N.G.); (K.A.P.)
- Department of Biopathology, Aeginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.N.G.); (K.A.P.)
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.N.G.); (K.A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-746-2508; Fax: +30-210-746-2703
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Luo F, Lu FT, Qiu MZ, Zhou T, Ma WJ, Luo M, Zeng KM, Luo QY, Pan WT, Zhang L, Xia ZF, Zhang ZH, Cao JX, Zhao HY, Zhang L, Yang DJ. Gemcitabine and APG-1252, a novel small molecule inhibitor of BCL-2/BCL-XL, display a synergistic antitumor effect in nasopharyngeal carcinoma through the JAK-2/STAT3/MCL-1 signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:772. [PMID: 34354046 PMCID: PMC8342713 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04042-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has a poor prognosis, with an unfavorable response to palliative chemotherapy. Unfortunately, there are few effective therapeutic regimens. Therefore, we require novel treatment strategies with enhanced efficacy. The present study aimed to investigate the antitumor efficacy of APG-1252-M1, a dual inhibitor of BCL-2/BCL-XL, as a single agent and combined with gemcitabine. We applied various apoptotic assays and used subcutaneous transplanted NPC model to assess the in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity. Moreover, phospho-tyrosine kinase array was used to investigate the combined therapy’s potential synergistic mechanism. In addition, further validation was performed using immunohistochemistry and western blotting. In vitro, we observed that APG-1252-M1 had moderate antitumor activity toward NPC cells; however, it markedly improved gemcitabine’s ability to promote NPC cell apoptosis and suppress invasion, migration, and proliferation. Specifically, APG-1252 plus gemcitabine exhibited even remarkable antitumor activity in vivo. Mechanistically, the drug combination synergistically suppressed NPC by activating caspase-dependent pathways, blocking the phospho (p)-JAK-2/STAT3/MCL-1 signaling pathway, and inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In conclusion, the results indicated that the combination of APG-1252 and gemcitabine has synergistic anticancer activities against NPC, providing a promising treatment modality for patients with NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Luo
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei-Teng Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miao-Zhen Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Juan Ma
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Luo
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kang-Mei Zeng
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiu-Yun Luo
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Tao Pan
- Ascentage Pharma (Suzhou) Co, Ltd, 218 Xinghu Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeng-Fei Xia
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Han Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Xin Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Yun Zhao
- Department of Clinical Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Da-Jun Yang
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat- Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
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Wang Z, Hui C, Xie Y. Natural STAT3 inhibitors: A mini perspective. Bioorg Chem 2021; 115:105169. [PMID: 34333418 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays pivotal role in several cellular processes such as cell proliferation and survival and has been found to be aberrantly activated in many cancers. STAT3 is largely believed to be one of the key oncogenes and crucial therapeutic targets. Much research has suggested the leading mechanisms for regulating the STAT3 pathway and its role in promoting tumorigenesis. Therefore, intensive efforts have been devoted to develop potent STAT3 inhibitors and several of them are currently undergoing clinical trials. Nevertheless, many natural products were identified as STAT3 inhibitors but attract less attention compared to the small molecule counterpart. In this review, the development of natural STAT3 inhibitors with an emphasis on their biological profile and chemical synthesis are detailed. The current state of STAT3 inhibitors and the future directions and opportunities for STAT3 inhibitor are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Wang
- Southern University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Shenzhen 518055, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chunngai Hui
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yusheng Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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The Cytotoxicity Effect of Curcumin Loaded Folic Acid Conjugated-Nanoparticles on Breast Cancer Cells and Its Association with Inhibition of STAT3 Phosphorylation. J CLUST SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10876-021-02125-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Jung YY, Um JY, Nasif O, Alharbi SA, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Blockage of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in multiple myeloma by leelamine. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 87:153574. [PMID: 34006448 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leelamine (LEE) is a lipophilic diterpene amine phytochemical, which can be naturally extracted from pine's bark trees. It has been extensively studied recently for its promising chemopreventive and anti-cancer effects against various cancers such as that of prostate and breast. HYPOTHESIS We examined the potential impact of LEE in affecting the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and promoting apoptosis in human multiple myeloma (MM) cells. METHODS We evaluated the effect of LEE on STAT3 signaling pathway in MM cells by using Western blot analysis and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Thereafter, apoptosis was evaluated using cell cycle analysis and Annexin V assay. RESULTS We noted that LEE could attenuate the phosphorylation of STAT3 and other up-stream signaling molecules such as JAK1, JAK2, and Src activation in U266 and MM.1S cells. It also diminished STAT3 translocation into the nucleus and enhanced the expression of protein-tyrosine phosphatase epsilon (PTPε). Additionally, LEE caused cell cycle arrest and synergistically augmented the apoptotic actions of bortezomib against MM cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicates that LEE could block STAT3 signaling cascade linked to tumorigenesis and can be used in combination with approved anti-cancer agents in attenuating MM growth and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Yun Jung
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Um
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Omaima Nasif
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, [Medical City], King Khalid University Hospital, PO Box-2925, Riyadh -11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh -11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
Background: STAT3 is a pro-oncogenic transcription factor. Pyrimethamine (PYM) is a STAT3 inhibitor that suppresses the proliferation of some cancer cells through downregulation of STAT3 target proteins. Methodology & Results: We have used structure-based tools to design novel PYM-based compounds. Intracellular target validation studies revealed that representative compounds 11b-d and 15a downregulate STAT3 downstream proteins and inhibit STAT3 DNA binding domain (DBD). Relative to PYM, a cohort of these compounds are >100-fold more cytotoxic to cancer cells with constitutively active (high pSTAT3) and basal (low pSTAT3) STAT3 signaling, suggesting that STAT3 DBD inhibition is deleterious to the proliferation of cancer cells with low and high pSTAT3 levels. Conclusion: These are promising leads for further preclinical evaluation as therapeutic agents for STAT3-dependent cancers.
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