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Assal RA, Elemam NM, Mekky RY, Attia AA, Soliman AH, Gomaa AI, Efthimiadou EK, Braoudaki M, Fahmy SA, Youness RA. A Novel Epigenetic Strategy to Concurrently Block Immune Checkpoints PD-1/PD-L1 and CD155/TIGIT in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Transl Oncol 2024; 45:101961. [PMID: 38631259 PMCID: PMC11040172 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment is an intricate web of stromal and immune cells creating an immune suppressive cordon around the tumor. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), Tumor microenvironment is a formidable barrier towards novel immune therapeutic approaches recently evading the oncology field. In this study, the main aim was to identify the intricate immune evasion tactics mediated by HCC cells and to study the epigenetic modulation of the immune checkpoints; Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/ Programmed death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) and T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT)/Cluster of Differentiation 155 (CD155) at the tumor-immune synapse. Thus, liver tissues, PBMCs and sera were collected from Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), HCC as well as healthy individuals. Screening was performed to PD-L1/PD-1 and CD155/TIGIT axes in HCC patients. PDL1, CD155, PD-1 and TIGIT were found to be significantly upregulated in liver tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of HCC patients. An array of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs validated to regulate such immune checkpoints were screened. The lncRNAs; CCAT-1, H19, and MALAT-1 were all significantly upregulated in the sera, PBMCs, and tissues of HCC patients as compared to HCV patients and healthy controls. However, miR-944-5p, miR-105-5p, miR-486-5p, miR-506-5p, and miR-30a-5p were downregulated in the sera and liver tissues of HCC patients. On the tumor cell side, knocking down of lncRNAs-CCAT-1, MALAT-1, or H19-markedly repressed the co-expression of PD-L1 and CD155 and accordingly induced the cytotoxicity of co-cultured primary immune cells. On the immune side, ectopic expression of the under-expressed microRNAs; miR-486-5p, miR-506-5p, and miR-30a-5p significantly decreased the transcript levels of PD-1 in PBMCs with no effect on TIGIT. On the other hand, ectopic expression of miR-944-5p and miR-105-5p in PBMCs dramatically reduced the co-expression of PD-1 and TIGIT. Finally, all studied miRNAs enhanced the cytotoxic effects of PBMCs against Huh7 cells. However, miR-105-5p showed the highest augmentation for PBMCs cytotoxicity against HCC cells. In conclusion, this study highlights a novel co-targeting strategy using miR-105-5p mimics, MALAT-1, CCAT-1 and H19 siRNAs to efficiently hampers the immune checkpoints; PD-L1/PD-1 and CD155/TIGIT immune evasion properties in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem A Assal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, Cairo-Ismailia Desert Road, 11785, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha M Elemam
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Radwa Y Mekky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA University), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman A Attia
- General Surgery Department, Ain Shams University, Demerdash Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya Hesham Soliman
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Ibrahim Gomaa
- Department of Hepatology, National Liver Institute, Menoufiya University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Eleni K Efthimiadou
- Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical, and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Chemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, 11835, Cairo, Egypt; Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt.
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Elmasri RA, Rashwan AA, Gaber SH, Rostom MM, Karousi P, Yasser MB, Kontos CK, Youness RA. Puzzling out the role of MIAT LncRNA in hepatocellular carcinoma. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:547-559. [PMID: 38515792 PMCID: PMC10955557 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
A non-negligible part of our DNA has been proven to be transcribed into non-protein coding RNA and its intricate involvement in several physiological processes has been highly evidenced. The significant biological role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been variously reported. In the current review, the authors highlight the multifaceted role of myocardial infarction-associated transcript (MIAT), a well-known lncRNA, in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Since its discovery, MIAT has been described as a regulator of carcinogenesis in several malignant tumors and its overexpression predicts poor prognosis in most of them. At the molecular level, MIAT is closely linked to the initiation of metastasis, invasion, cellular migration, and proliferation, as evidenced by several in-vitro and in-vivo models. Thus, MIAT is considered a possible theranostic agent and therapeutic target in several malignancies. In this review, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of the underlying molecular mechanisms of MIAT in terms of its downstream target genes, interaction with other classes of ncRNAs, and potential clinical implications as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Amr Elmasri
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alaa A. Rashwan
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo (AUC), 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sarah Hany Gaber
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Monica Mosaad Rostom
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo (GUC), 11835, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Paraskevi Karousi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, 15701, Athens, Greece
| | - Montaser Bellah Yasser
- Bioinformatics Group, Center for Informatics Sciences (CIS), School of Information Technology and Computer Science (ITCS), Nile University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Christos K. Kontos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, 15701, Athens, Greece
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, 11835, Cairo, Egypt
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3
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Zeinelabdeen Y, Abaza T, Yasser MB, Elemam NM, Youness RA. MIAT LncRNA: A multifunctional key player in non-oncological pathological conditions. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:447-462. [PMID: 38511054 PMCID: PMC10950597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has unveiled a wide range of transcripts that do not encode proteins but play key roles in several cellular and molecular processes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are specific class of ncRNAs that are longer than 200 nucleotides and have gained significant attention due to their diverse mechanisms of action and potential involvement in various pathological conditions. In the current review, the authors focus on the role of lncRNAs, specifically highlighting the Myocardial Infarction Associated Transcript (MIAT), in non-oncological context. MIAT is a nuclear lncRNA that has been directly linked to myocardial infarction and is reported to control post-transcriptional processes as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) molecule. It interacts with microRNAs (miRNAs), thereby limiting the translation and expression of their respective target messenger RNA (mRNA) and regulating protein expression. Yet, MIAT has been implicated in other numerous pathological conditions such as other cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, and many others. In this review, the authors emphasize that MIAT exhibits distinct expression patterns and functions across different pathological conditions and is emerging as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic agent. Additionally, the authors highlight the regulatory role of MIAT and shed light on the involvement of lncRNAs and specifically MIAT in various non-oncological pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousra Zeinelabdeen
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
- Faculty of Medical Sciences/UMCG, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, 9713 AV, the Netherlands
| | - Tasneem Abaza
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
- Biotechnology and Biomolecular Biochemistry Program, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Montaser Bellah Yasser
- Bioinformatics Group, Center for Informatics Sciences (CIS), School of Information Technology and Computer Science (ITCS), Nile University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha M. Elemam
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
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Rashwan HH, Taher AM, Hassan HA, Awaji AA, Kiriacos CJ, Assal RA, Youness RA. Harnessing the supremacy of MEG3 LncRNA to defeat gastrointestinal malignancies. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155223. [PMID: 38452587 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a pivotal role in the carcinogenesis and progression of various human malignancies including gastrointestinal malignancies. This comprehensive review reports the functions and mechanisms of the lncRNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) involved in gastrointestinal malignancies. It summarizes its roles in mediating the regulation of cellular proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasiveness, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and drug resistance in several gastrointestinal cancers such as colorectal cancer, gall bladder cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors and most importantly, hepatocellular carcinoma. In addition, the authors briefly highlight its implicated mechanistic role and interactions with different non-coding RNAs and oncogenic signaling cascades. This review presents the rationale for developing non coding RNA-based anticancer therapy via harnessing the power of MEG3 in gastrointestinal malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H Rashwan
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; Bioinformatics Group, Center for Informatics Science (CIS), School of Information Technology and Computer Science (ITCS), Nile University, 12677, Giza, Egypt
| | - A M Taher
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - H A Hassan
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - A A Awaji
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University College of Taymaa, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - C J Kiriacos
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - R A Assal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, Cairo, Egypt
| | - R A Youness
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt.
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Dawoud A, Elmasri RA, Mohamed AH, Mahmoud A, Rostom MM, Youness RA. Involvement of CircRNAs in regulating The "New Generation of Cancer Hallmarks": A Special Depiction on Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 196:104312. [PMID: 38428701 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104312] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of 'Hallmarks of Cancer' is an approach of reducing the enormous complexity of cancer to a set of guiding principles. As the underlying mechanism of cancer are portrayed, we find that we gain insight and additional aspects of the disease arise. The understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) brought a new dimension and led to the discovery of novel hallmarks such as senescent cells, non-mutational epigenetic reprogramming, polymorphic microbiomes and unlocked phenotypic plasticity. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are single-stranded, covalently closed RNA molecules that are ubiquitous across all species. Recent studies on the circRNAs have highlighted their crucial function in regulating the formation of human malignancies through a range of biological processes. The primary goal of this review is to clarify the role of circRNAs in the most common form of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This review also addressed the topic of how circRNAs affect HCC hallmarks, including the new generation hallmarks. Finally, the enormous applications that these rapidly expanding ncRNA molecules serve in the functional and molecular development of effective HCC diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dawoud
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), 11835, New Administrative Capital, Egypt; School of Medicine, University of North California, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - R A Elmasri
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), 11835, New Administrative Capital, Egypt
| | - A H Mohamed
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), 11835, New Administrative Capital, Egypt; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - A Mahmoud
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), 11835, New Administrative Capital, Egypt; Biotechnology School, Nile University, Giza 12677, Egypt
| | - M M Rostom
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo (GUC), Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - R A Youness
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), 11835, New Administrative Capital, Egypt.
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6
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Fahmy SA, Mahdy NK, Mohamed AH, Mokhtar FA, Youness RA. Hijacking 5-Fluorouracil Chemoresistance in Triple Negative Breast Cancer via microRNAs-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2070. [PMID: 38396746 PMCID: PMC10889139 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042070] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is still the mainstay of treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. Yet only 20% of TNBC patients show a pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a stable cornerstone in all recommended chemotherapeutic protocols for TNBC patients. However, TNBC patients' innate or acquired chemoresistance rate for 5-FU is steeply escalating. This study aims to unravel the mechanism behind the chemoresistance of 5-FU in the aggressive TNBC cell line, MDA-MB-231 cells, to explore further the role of the tumor suppressor microRNAs (miRNAs), miR-1275, miR-615-5p, and Let-7i, in relieving the 5-FU chemoresistance in TNBC, and to finally provide a translational therapeutic approach to co-deliver 5-FU and the respective miRNA oligonucleotides using chitosan-based nanoparticles (CsNPs). In this regard, cellular viability and proliferation were investigated using MTT and BrdU assays, respectively. 5-FU was found to induce JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in MDA-MB-231 cells with contaminant repression of their upstream regulators miR-1275, miR-615-5p, and Let-7i. Moreover, CsNPs prepared using the ionic gelation method were chosen and studied as nanovectors of 5-FU and a combination of miRNA oligonucleotides targeting TNBC. The average particle sizes, surface charges, and morphologies of the different CsNPs were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. In addition, the encapsulation efficiency (EE%), drug loading capacity (DLC%), and release manner at two different pH values were assessed. In conclusion, the novel CsNPs co-loaded with 5-FU and the combination of the three miRNA oligonucleotides demonstrated synergistic activity and remarkable repression in cellular viability and proliferation of TNBC cells through alleviating the chemoresistance to 5-FU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Chemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, New Administrative Capital, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Noha Khalil Mahdy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Adham H Mohamed
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, Cairo 11835, Egypt
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Fatma A Mokhtar
- Fujairah Research Centre, Sakamkam Road, Fujairah 1626, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, El Saleheya El Gadida University, El Saleheya El Gadida 44813, Sharkia, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), New Administrative Capital, Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Elemam NM, Mekky RY, Rashid G, Braoudaki M, Youness RA. Pharmacogenomic and epigenomic approaches to untangle the enigma of IL-10 blockade in oncology. Expert Rev Mol Med 2024; 26:e1. [PMID: 38186186 PMCID: PMC10941350 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2023.26] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The host immune system status remains an unresolved mystery among several malignancies. An immune-compromised state or smart immune-surveillance tactics orchestrated by cancer cells are the primary cause of cancer invasion and metastasis. Taking a closer look at the tumour-immune microenvironment, a complex network and crosstalk between infiltrating immune cells and cancer cells mediated by cytokines, chemokines, exosomal mediators and shed ligands are present. Cytokines such as interleukins can influence all components of the tumour microenvironment (TME), consequently promoting or suppressing tumour invasion based on their secreting source. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is an interlocked cytokine that has been associated with several types of malignancies and proved to have paradoxical effects. IL-10 has multiple functions on cellular and non-cellular components within the TME. In this review, the authors shed the light on the regulatory role of IL-10 in the TME of several malignant contexts. Moreover, detailed epigenomic and pharmacogenomic approaches for the regulation of IL-10 were presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M. Elemam
- Research Instiute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Radwa Y. Mekky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA University), Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Gowhar Rashid
- Amity Medical School, Amity University, Gurugram (Manesar) 122413, Haryana, India
| | - Maria Braoudaki
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University, Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Soliman AH, Youness RA, Sebak AA, Handoussa H. Phytochemical-derived tumor-associated macrophage remodeling strategy using Phoenix dactylifera L. boosted photodynamic therapy in melanoma via H19/iNOS/PD-L1 axis. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2023; 44:103792. [PMID: 37689125 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2023.103792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a barrier to PDT efficacy among melanoma patients. The aim of this study is to employ a novel muti-tactic TME-remodeling strategy via repolarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the main TME immune cells in melanoma, from the pro-tumor M2 into the antitumor M1 phenotype using Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) in combination with PDT. METHODS Screening of different date cultivars was employed to choose extracts of selective toxicity to melanoma and TAMs, not normal macrophages. Potential extracts were then fractionated and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Finally, the efficacy and the potential molecular mechanism of the co-treatment were portrayed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis. RESULTS Initial screening resulted in the selection of the two Phoenix dactylifera L. cultivars Safawi and Sukkari methanolic extracts. Sukkari showed superior capacity to revert TAM phenotype into M1 as well as more prominent upregulation of M1 markers and repression of melanoma immunosuppressive markers relative to positive control (resiquimod). Molecularly, it was shown that PDT of melanoma cells in the presence of the secretome of repolarized TAMs surpassed the monotherapy via the modulation of the H19/iNOS/PD-L1immune-regulatory axis. CONCLUSION This study highlights the potential utilization of nutraceuticals in combination with PDT in the treatment of melanoma to provide a dual activity through alleviating the immune suppressive TME and potentiating the anti-tumor responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya H Soliman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Main Entrance El Tagamoa El Khames, New Cairo 11511, Egypt.
| | - Rana A Youness
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Main Entrance El Tagamoa El Khames, New Cairo 11511, Egypt; Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University, New Administrative Capital, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Aya A Sebak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, New Cairo 11511, Egypt.
| | - Heba Handoussa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Main Entrance El Tagamoa El Khames, New Cairo 11511, Egypt
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Abaza T, El-Aziz MKA, Daniel KA, Karousi P, Papatsirou M, Fahmy SA, Hamdy NM, Kontos CK, Youness RA. Emerging Role of Circular RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16484. [PMID: 38003674 PMCID: PMC10671287 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly fatal malignancy with limited therapeutic options and high recurrence rates. Recently, immunotherapeutic agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have emerged as a new paradigm shift in oncology. ICIs, such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors, have provided a new source of hope for patients with advanced HCC. Yet, the eligibility criteria of HCC patients for ICIs are still a missing piece in the puzzle. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as a new class of non-coding RNAs that play a fundamental role in cancer pathogenesis. Structurally, circRNAs are resistant to exonucleolytic degradation and have a longer half-life than their linear counterparts. Functionally, circRNAs possess the capability to influence various facets of the tumor microenvironment, especially at the HCC tumor-immune synapse. Notably, circRNAs have been observed to control the expression of immune checkpoint molecules within tumor cells, potentially impeding the therapeutic effectiveness of ICIs. Therefore, this renders them potential cancer-immune biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic regimen determinants. In this review, the authors shed light on the structure and functional roles of circRNAs and, most importantly, highlight the promising roles of circRNAs in HCC immunomodulation and their potential as promising biomarkers and immunotherapeutic regimen determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasneem Abaza
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biotechnology and Biomolecular Chemistry Program, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Mostafa K. Abd El-Aziz
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71631, Egypt
| | - Kerolos Ashraf Daniel
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Paraskevi Karousi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Maria Papatsirou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, R5 New Garden City, New Capital, Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Nadia M. Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Christos K. Kontos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15701 Athens, Greece; (P.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo 11835, Egypt; (T.A.); (M.K.A.E.-A.); (K.A.D.)
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10
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Proença C, Freitas M, Ribeiro D, Rufino AT, Fernandes E, Ferreira de Oliveira JMP. The role of flavonoids in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer: A review on targeting signaling pathways and metastasis. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:1878-1945. [PMID: 37147865 DOI: 10.1002/med.21966] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the hallmarks of cancer is metastasis, a process that entails the spread of cancer cells to distant regions in the body, culminating in tumor formation in secondary organs. Importantly, the proinflammatory environment surrounding cancer cells further contributes to cancer cell transformation and extracellular matrix destruction. During metastasis, front-rear polarity and emergence of migratory and invasive features are manifestations of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). A variety of transcription factors (TFs) are implicated in the execution of EMT, the most prominent belonging to the Snail Family Transcriptional Repressor (SNAI) and Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox (ZEB) families of TFs. These TFs are regulated by interaction with specific microRNAs (miRNAs), as miR34 and miR200. Among the several secondary metabolites produced in plants, flavonoids constitute a major group of bioactive molecules, with several described effects including antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, antiobesogenic, and anticancer effects. This review scrutinizes the modulatory role of flavonoids on the activity of SNAI/ZEB TFs and on their regulatory miRNAs, miR-34, and miR-200. The modulatory role of flavonoids can attenuate mesenchymal features and stimulate epithelial features, thereby inhibiting and reversing EMT. Moreover, this modulation is concomitant with the attenuation of signaling pathways involved in diverse processes as cell proliferation, cell growth, cell cycle progression, apoptosis inhibition, morphogenesis, cell fate, cell migration, cell polarity, and wound healing. The antimetastatic potential of these versatile compounds is emerging and represents an opportunity for the synthesis of more specific and potent agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Proença
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marisa Freitas
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Ribeiro
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana T Rufino
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Fernandes
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - José Miguel P Ferreira de Oliveira
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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11
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Li S, Hao L, Deng J, Zhang J, Hu X. Coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus against lipid droplet deposition in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-related liver cancer by AKT. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 102:828-842. [PMID: 37460115 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14295] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease in the world. NAFLD has become one of the major factors contributing to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, there are no clear targets and therapeutic drugs for NAFLD-related liver cancer. This study explored the active compounds, target and mechanism of coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus in the treatment of NAFLD-related liver cancer based on the network pharmacology and experimental verification. There were 455 intersection targets of NAFLD-related liver cancer, and 65 drug-disease common targets. AKT1 has the highest degree, indicating that it may be a key target of coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus in the treatment of NAFLD-related liver cancer. The expression level of AKT1 was high in high-risk group, and the overall survival rate was lower than that in low-risk group. After oleic acid induction, p-AKT expression and lipid droplet deposition were promoted in HepG2 cells. Quercetin and resveratrol reduced lipid droplet deposition in vivo. Moreover, quercetin inhibited p-AKT expression, resveratrol both reduced the expression of p-AKT and AKT. The overall findings suggested that quercetin inhibited AKT in the treatment of NAFLD-related liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghao Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiali Deng
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Junli Zhang
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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12
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Ghasemian M, Kazeminava F, Naseri A, Mohebzadeh S, Abbaszadeh M, Kafil HS, Ahmadian Z. Recent progress in tannic acid based approaches as a natural polyphenolic biomaterial for cancer therapy: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115328. [PMID: 37591125 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant advancements have been noticed in cancer therapy for decades. Despite this, there are still many critical challenges ahead, including multidrug resistance, drug instability, and side effects. To overcome obstacles of these problems, various types of materials in biomedical research have been explored. Chief among them, the applications of natural compounds have grown rapidly due to their superb biological activities. Natural compounds, especially polyphenolic compounds, play a positive and great role in cancer therapy. Tannic acid (TA), one of the most famous polyphenols, has attracted widespread attention in the field of cancer treatment with unique structural, physicochemical, pharmaceutical, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant and other strong biological features. This review concentrated on the basic structure along with the important role of TA in tuning oncological signal pathways firstly, and then focused on the use of TA in chemotherapy and preparation of delivery systems including nanoparticles and hydrogels for cancer therapy. Besides, the application of TA/Fe3+ complex coating in photothermal therapy, chemodynamic therapy, combined therapy and theranostics is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motaleb Ghasemian
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Kazeminava
- Department of Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ashkan Naseri
- Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Soheila Mohebzadeh
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Abbaszadeh
- Department of Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Department of Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Zainab Ahmadian
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
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13
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El-Aziz MKA, Dawoud A, Kiriacos CJ, Fahmy SA, Hamdy NM, Youness RA. Decoding hepatocarcinogenesis from a noncoding RNAs perspective. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:1982-2009. [PMID: 37450612 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Being a leading lethal malignancy worldwide, the pathophysiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has gained a lot of interest. Yet, underlying mechanistic basis of the liver tumorigenesis is poorly understood. The role of some coding genes and their respective translated proteins, then later on, some noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as microRNAs have been extensively studied in context of HCC pathophysiology; however, the implication of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in HCC is indeed less investigated. As a subclass of the ncRNAs which has been elusive for long time ago, lncRNAs was found to be involved in plentiful cellular functions such as DNA, RNA, and proteins regulation. Hence, it is undisputed that lncRNAs dysregulation profoundly contributes to HCC via diverse etiologies. Accordingly, lncRNAs represent a hot research topic that requires prime focus in HCC. In this review, the authors discuss breakthrough discoveries involving lncRNAs and circRNAs dysregulation that have contributed to the contemporary concepts of HCC pathophysiology and how these concepts could be leveraged as potential novel diagnostic and prognostic HCC biomarkers. Further, this review article sheds light on future trends, thereby discussing the pathological roles of lncRNAs and circRNAs in HCC proliferation, migration, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Along this line of reasoning, future recommendations of how these targets could be exploited to achieve effective HCC-related drug development is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa K Abd El-Aziz
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alyaa Dawoud
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Caroline J Kiriacos
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sherif Ashraf Fahmy
- Chemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nadia M Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
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14
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Shiau JP, Chuang YT, Yen CY, Chang FR, Yang KH, Hou MF, Tang JY, Chang HW. Modulation of AKT Pathway-Targeting miRNAs for Cancer Cell Treatment with Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043688. [PMID: 36835100 PMCID: PMC9961959 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Many miRNAs are known to target the AKT serine-threonine kinase (AKT) pathway, which is critical for the regulation of several cell functions in cancer cell development. Many natural products exhibiting anticancer effects have been reported, but their connections to the AKT pathway (AKT and its effectors) and miRNAs have rarely been investigated. This review aimed to demarcate the relationship between miRNAs and the AKT pathway during the regulation of cancer cell functions by natural products. Identifying the connections between miRNAs and the AKT pathway and between miRNAs and natural products made it possible to establish an miRNA/AKT/natural product axis to facilitate a better understanding of their anticancer mechanisms. Moreover, the miRNA database (miRDB) was used to retrieve more AKT pathway-related target candidates for miRNAs. By evaluating the reported facts, the cell functions of these database-generated candidates were connected to natural products. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the natural product/miRNA/AKT pathway in the modulation of cancer cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ping Shiau
- Division of Breast Oncology and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ting Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yu Yen
- School of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan 71004, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Rong Chang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Han Yang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Feng Hou
- Division of Breast Oncology and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Yang Tang
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (J.-Y.T.); (H.-W.C.); Tel.: +88-67-3121101 (ext. 8105) (J.-Y.T.); +88-67-3121101 (ext. 2691) (H.-W.C.)
| | - Hsueh-Wei Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Science and Technology, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (J.-Y.T.); (H.-W.C.); Tel.: +88-67-3121101 (ext. 8105) (J.-Y.T.); +88-67-3121101 (ext. 2691) (H.-W.C.)
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15
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Wang L, Tang T, Zhao C, Ye J, He K, Zou J. Chemical constituents of Pteris excelsa and their antioxidant activity. BIOCHEM SYST ECOL 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bse.2022.104564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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16
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Zhang HY, Zong RQ, Wu FX, Li YR. Bioinformatics Analysis Identifies ASCL1 as the Key Transcription Factor in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression. DISEASE MARKERS 2023; 2023:3560340. [PMID: 36755802 PMCID: PMC9902118 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3560340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Methods Differentially transcription factors (DETFs) were identified from differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE62232 and transcription factors. Then, they were analyzed by regulatory networks, prognostic risk model, and overall survival analyses to identify the key DETF. Combined with the regulatory networks and binding site analysis, the target mRNA of key DETF was determined, and its prognostic value in HCC was evaluated by survival, clinical characteristics analyses, and experiments. Finally, the expressions and functions of the key DETF on the DEmRNAs were investigated in HCC cells. Results Through multiple bioinformatics analyses, ASCL1 was identified as the key DETF, and SLC6A13 was predicted to be its target mRNA with the common binding site of CCAGCAACTGGCC, both downregulated in HCC. In survival analysis, high SLC6A13 was related to better HCC prognosis, and SLC6A13 was differentially expressed in HCC patients with clinical characteristics. Furthermore, cell experiments showed the mRNA expressions of ASCL1 and SLC6A13 were both reduced in HCC, and their overexpressions suppressed the growth, invasion, and migration of HCC cells. Besides, over-ASCL1 could upregulate SLC6A13 expression in HCC cells. Conclusion This study identifies two suppressor genes in HCC progression, ASCL1 and SLC6A13, and the key transcription factor ASCL1 suppresses HCC progression by targeting SLC6A13 mRNA. They are both potential treatment targets and prognostic biomarkers for HCC patients, which provides new clues for HCC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-yan Zhang
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui-qing Zong
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei-xiang Wu
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-ran Li
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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17
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Yang Y, Hua Y, Chen W, Zheng H, Wu H, Qin S, Huang S. Therapeutic targets and pharmacological mechanisms of Coptidis Rhizoma against ulcerative colitis: Findings of system pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1037856. [PMID: 36532769 PMCID: PMC9748441 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1037856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence of the advantages of Coptidis Rhizoma (CR) for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is accumulating. However, research revealing the targets and molecular mechanisms of CR against UC is scarce. In this research, a bioinformatics analysis was performed to carry out the physicochemical properties and biological activities of phytochemicals in CR and analyze the binding activities, targets, biological functions and mechanisms of CR against UC. This research shows that the CR's key phytochemicals, which are named Coptisine, Berberrubine, Berlambine, Berberine, Epiberberine, Obacunone, Worenine, Quercetin, (R)-Canadine, Magnograndiolide, Palmatine and Moupinamide, have ideal physicochemical properties and bioactivity. A total of 1,904 potential phytochemical targets and 17,995 UC-related targets are identified, and we finally acquire 233 intersection targets between key phytochemicals and disease. A protein-protein interaction network of 233 common targets was constructed; and six hub targets were acquired with a degree greater than or equal to median, namely TP53, HSP90AA1, STAT3, ESR1, MYC, and RELA. The enrichment analysis suggested that the core targets may exert an impact on anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, anti-oxidant and anti-fibrosis functions mainly through the PI3K/ART signaling pathway, Th17 differentiation signaling pathway, inflammatory bowel disease signaling pathway, etcetera. Also, a molecular docking analysis shows that the key phytochemicals have strong affinity for binding to the core targets. Finally, the interaction network of CR, phytochemicals, targets, GO functions, KEGG pathways and UC is constructed. This study indicates that the key phytochemicals in CR have superior drug likeness and bioactivity, and the molecular mechanism of key phytochemicals against UC may be via the signaling pathway mentioned above. The potential and critical pharmacological mechanisms provide a direction for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming Yang
- Dongguan Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dongguan, Guangdong, China
| | - Yiwei Hua
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weihuan Chen
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haomeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shumin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaogang Huang
- Dongguan Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dongguan, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China
- Yang Chunbo Academic Experience Inheritance Studio of Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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18
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Milenkovic D, Rodriguez‐Mateos A, Lucosz M, Istas G, Declerck K, Sansone R, Deenen R, Köhrer K, Corral‐Jara KF, Altschmied J, Haendeler J, Kelm M, Berghe WV, Heiss C. Flavanol Consumption in Healthy Men Preserves Integrity of Immunological-Endothelial Barrier Cell Functions: Nutri(epi)genomic Analysis. Mol Nutr Food Res 2022; 66:e2100991. [PMID: 35094491 PMCID: PMC9787825 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202100991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE While cocoa flavanol (CF) consumption improves cardiovascular risk biomarkers, molecular mechanisms underlying their protective effects are not understood. OBJECTIVE To investigate nutri(epi)genomic effects of CF and identify regulatory networks potential mediating vascular health benefits. METHODS AND RESULTS Twenty healthy middle-aged men consume CF (bi-daily 450 mg) or control drinks for 1 month. Microarray analysis identifies 2235 differentially expressed genes (DEG) involved in processes regulating immune response, cell adhesion, or cytoskeleton organization. Distinct patterns of DEG correlate with CF-related changes in endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and blood pressure. DEG profile negatively correlates with expression profiles of cardiovascular disease patients. CF modulated DNA methylation profile of genes implicates in cell adhesion, actin cytoskeleton organization, or cell signaling. In silico docking analyses indicate that CF metabolites have the potential of binding to cell signaling proteins and transcription factors. Incubation of plasma obtained after CF consumption decrease monocyte to endothelial adhesion and dose-dependently increase nitric oxide-dependent chemotaxis of circulating angiogenic cells further validating the biological functions of CF metabolites. CONCLUSION In healthy humans, CF consumption may mediate vascular protective effects by modulating gene expression and DNA methylation towards a cardiovascular protective effect, in agreement with clinical results, by preserving integrity of immunological-endothelial barrier functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragan Milenkovic
- Department of NutritionUniversity of California DavisDavisCA95616USA,INRAEUNHUniversité Clermont AuvergneClermont‐FerrandF‐63000France
| | - Ana Rodriguez‐Mateos
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany,Department of Nutritional SciencesSchool of Life Course and Population SciencesFaculty of Life Sciences and MedicineKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Margarete Lucosz
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Geoffrey Istas
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany,Department of Nutritional SciencesSchool of Life Course and Population SciencesFaculty of Life Sciences and MedicineKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Ken Declerck
- PPESDepartment of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Antwerp (UA)WilrijkBelgium
| | - Roberto Sansone
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - René Deenen
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ)Heinrich Heine UniversityDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Karl Köhrer
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ)Heinrich Heine UniversityDüsseldorfGermany
| | | | - Joachim Altschmied
- Environmentally‐induced Cardiovascular DegenerationClinical Chemistry and Laboratory DiagnosticsMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital and Heinrich‐Heine UniversityDüsseldorfGermany,IUF‐Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental MedicineDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Judith Haendeler
- Environmentally‐induced Cardiovascular DegenerationClinical Chemistry and Laboratory DiagnosticsMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital and Heinrich‐Heine UniversityDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Malte Kelm
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- PPESDepartment of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Antwerp (UA)WilrijkBelgium
| | - Christian Heiss
- Division of CardiologyPulmonology, and Vascular MedicineMedical FacultyUniversity Hospital DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany,Clinical Medicine SectionDepartment of Clinical and Experimental MedicineFaculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK,Department of Vascular MedicineSurrey and Sussex NHS Healthcare TrustEast Surrey HospitalRedhillUK
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19
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Piergentili R, Basile G, Nocella C, Carnevale R, Marinelli E, Patrone R, Zaami S. Using ncRNAs as Tools in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment-The Way towards Personalized Medicine to Improve Patients' Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169353. [PMID: 36012617 PMCID: PMC9409241 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the first discovery of a non-coding RNA (ncRNA) dates back to 1958, only in recent years has the complexity of the transcriptome started to be elucidated. However, its components are still under investigation and their identification is one of the challenges that scientists are presently facing. In addition, their function is still far from being fully understood. The non-coding portion of the genome is indeed the largest, both quantitatively and qualitatively. A large fraction of these ncRNAs have a regulatory role either in coding mRNAs or in other ncRNAs, creating an intracellular network of crossed interactions (competing endogenous RNA networks, or ceRNET) that fine-tune the gene expression in both health and disease. The alteration of the equilibrium among such interactions can be enough to cause a transition from health to disease, but the opposite is equally true, leading to the possibility of intervening based on these mechanisms to cure human conditions. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge on these mechanisms, illustrating how they can be used for disease treatment, the current challenges and pitfalls, and the roles of environmental and lifestyle-related contributing factors, in addition to the ethical, legal, and social issues arising from their (improper) use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Piergentili
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council (CNR-IBPM), 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basile
- Trauma Unit and Emergency Department, IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopedics Institute, 20161 Milan, Italy
- Head of Legal Medicine Unit, Clinical Institute San Siro, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Nocella
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anaesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Carnevale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro-Napoli, Via Orazio, 80122 Naples, Italy
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Renato Patrone
- PhD ICTH, University of Federico II, HPB Department INT F. Pascale IRCCS of Naples, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Forensic Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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20
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The Targeting of Noncoding RNAs by Quercetin in Cancer Prevention and Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4330681. [PMID: 35656022 PMCID: PMC9155922 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4330681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The dietary flavonoid quercetin is ubiquitously distributed in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs. Quercetin has been a focal point in recent years due to its versatile health-promoting benefits and high pharmacological values. It has well documented that quercetin exerts anticancer actions by inhibiting cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and retarding the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the exact mechanism of quercetin-mediated cancer chemoprevention is still not fully understood. With the advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies, the intricate oncogenic signaling networks have been gradually characterized. Increasing evidence on the close association between noncoding RNA (ncRNAs) and cancer etiopathogenesis emphasizes the potential of ncRNAs as promising molecular targets for cancer treatment. Available experimental studies indicate that quercetin can dominate multiple cancer-associated ncRNAs, hence repressing carcinogenesis and cancer development. Thus, modulation of ncRNAs serves as a key mechanism responsible for the anticancer effects of quercetin. In this review, we focus on the chemopreventive effects of quercetin on cancer pathogenesis by targeting cancer-relevant ncRNAs, supporting the viewpoint that quercetin holds promise as a drug candidate for cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy. An in-depth comprehension of the interplay between quercetin and ncRNAs in the inhibition of cancer development and progression will raise the possibility of developing this bioactive compound as an anticancer agent that could be highly efficacious and safe in clinical practice.
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21
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Kiriacos CJ, Khedr MR, Tadros M, Youness RA. Prospective Medicinal Plants and Their Phytochemicals Shielding Autoimmune and Cancer Patients Against the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Special Focus on Matcha. Front Oncol 2022; 12:837408. [PMID: 35664773 PMCID: PMC9157490 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.837408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Being "positive" has been one of the most frustrating words anyone could hear since the end of 2019. This word had been overused globally due to the high infectious nature of SARS-CoV-2. All citizens are at risk of being infected with SARS-CoV-2, but a red warning sign has been directed towards cancer and immune-compromised patients in particular. These groups of patients are not only more prone to catch the virus but also more predisposed to its deadly consequences, something that urged the research community to seek other effective and safe solutions that could be used as a protective measurement for cancer and autoimmune patients during the pandemic. Aim The authors aimed to turn the spotlight on specific herbal remedies that showed potential anticancer activity, immuno-modulatory roles, and promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 actions. Methodology To attain the purpose of the review, the research was conducted at the States National Library of Medicine (PubMed). To search databases, the descriptors used were as follows: "COVID-19"/"SARS-CoV-2", "Herbal Drugs", "Autoimmune diseases", "Rheumatoid Arthritis", "Asthma", "Multiple Sclerosis", "Systemic Lupus Erythematosus" "Nutraceuticals", "Matcha", "EGCG", "Quercetin", "Cancer", and key molecular pathways. Results This manuscript reviewed most of the herbal drugs that showed a triple action concerning anticancer, immunomodulation, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities. Special attention was directed towards "matcha" as a novel potential protective and therapeutic agent for cancer and immunocompromised patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Conclusion This review sheds light on the pivotal role of "matcha" as a tri-acting herbal tea having a potent antitumorigenic effect, immunomodulatory role, and proven anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, thus providing a powerful shield for high-risk patients such as cancer and autoimmune patients during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Joseph Kiriacos
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Monika Rafik Khedr
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Miray Tadros
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
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22
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Abdel-Latif M, Riad A, Soliman RA, Elkhouly AM, Nafae H, Gad MZ, Motaal AA, Youness RA. MALAT-1/p53/miR-155/miR-146a ceRNA circuit tuned by methoxylated quercitin glycoside alters immunogenic and oncogenic profiles of breast cancer. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:1281-1293. [PMID: 35129780 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04378-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive and hot BC subtypes. Our research group has recently shed the light on the utility of natural compounds as effective immunotherapeutic agents. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of a methoxylated quercetin glycoside (MQG) isolated from Cleome droserifolia in harnessing TNBC progression and tuning the tumor microenvironment and natural killer cells cytotoxicity. Results showed that MQG showed the highest potency (IC50 = 12 µM) in repressing cellular proliferation, colony-forming ability, migration, and invasion capacities. Mechanistically, MQG was found to modulate a circuit of competing endogenous RNAs where it was found to reduce the oncogenic MALAT-1 lncRNA and induce TP53 and its downstream miRNAs; miR-155 and miR-146a. Accordingly, this leads to alteration in several downstream signaling pathways such as nitric oxide synthesizing machinery, natural killer cells' cytotoxicity through inducing the expression of its activating ligands such as MICA/B, ULBP2, CD155, and ICAM-1 and trimming of the immune-suppressive cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-10. In conclusion, this study shows that MQG act as a compelling anti-cancer agent repressing TNBC hallmarks, activating immune cell recognition, and alleviating the immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment experienced by TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Abdel-Latif
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biotechnology Program, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.,Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Riad
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Biotechnology Program, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.,Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Raghda A Soliman
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aisha M Elkhouly
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Heba Nafae
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z Gad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Abdel Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt. .,Department of Biology and Biochemistry, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, New Administrative Capital, Cairo, 11578, Egypt.
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23
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Fatima N, Baqri SSR, Bhattacharya A, Koney NKK, Husain K, Abbas A, Ansari RA. Role of Flavonoids as Epigenetic Modulators in Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Front Genet 2021; 12:758733. [PMID: 34858475 PMCID: PMC8630677 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.758733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation involves reversible changes in histones and DNA modifications that can be inherited without any changes in the DNA sequence. Dysregulation of normal epigenetic processes can lead to aberrant gene expression as observed in many diseases, notably cancer. Recent insights into the mechanisms of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs involved in altered gene expression profiles of tumor cells have caused a paradigm shift in the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches towards cancer. There has been a surge in search for compounds that could modulate the altered epigenetic landscape of tumor cells, and to exploit their therapeutic potential against cancers. Flavonoids are naturally occurring phenol compounds which are abundantly found among phytochemicals and have potentials to modulate epigenetic processes. Knowledge of the precise flavonoid-mediated epigenetic alterations is needed for the development of epigenetics drugs and combinatorial therapeutic approaches against cancers. This review is aimed to comprehensively explore the epigenetic modulations of flavonoids and their anti-tumor activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishat Fatima
- Department of Chemistry, Shia Postgraduate College, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Atrayee Bhattacharya
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nii Koney-Kwaku Koney
- Department of Anatomy, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kazim Husain
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Ata Abbas
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Rais A Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
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24
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Wang P, Zhou W, Liu J, Sui F, Wang Z. Modulome-Fangjiome Association Study (MoFAS) reveals differential target distribution among four similar fangjis (formulas). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 279:113822. [PMID: 33460760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Precise target distribution is a key issue for further appropriate applications of fangjis (formulas) with similar efficacy and herbal constituents to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity. AIM OF THE STUDY To develop an algorithm for investigating the differential target distributions and characteristic mechanisms of fangjis. MAIN METHODS In this study, we proposed a Modulome-Fangjiome Association Study (MoFAS) for comparing fangjis from qi-invigorating and xue-nourishing fangjiome (represented by four fangjis: FEJ, SDT, LYG and QOL). Firstly, the database-driven target network of these 4 fangjis was constructed as qi-xue network and decomposed into modules. Then, the modular map with functional landscape were constructed based on consistency score and enrichment analysis. Finally, we employed a targeting rate (TR) matrix to assess the contribution of this fangjiome to modulome (a set of modules) and compared characteristic effect of fangjis by principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS A qi-xue network constituted by 579 proteins and 23 modules were constructed. In the functional landscape, 3 primary modules were mainly involved in the endocrine system and environmental adaptation. For the target distribution, SDT and QOL were more similar; the FEJ and LYG were located distant from other fangjis according to PCA. The common effects of FEJ, SDT, and QOL focused on stress response and organism development in environmental perturbation, but the FEJ was superior in regulating critical targets, primarily focusing on hormone and neurotransmitter processes. SDT and QOL were concentrated on the majority scale of the qi-xue network, especially for the mitotic cell cycle and development. LYG only targeted lymphocyte costimulation and icosanoid biosynthetic processes. CONCLUSION In this study, for the first time, we investigated the difference in the target distribution of qi-invigorating and xue-nourishing fangjiome and provided direct evidence for the characteristic therapeutic effect of these fangjis, which may promote the precise application of fangjis and support the identification of appropriate populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengqian Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Weiwei Zhou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Feng Sui
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Zhong Wang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
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25
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Mierziak J, Kostyn K, Boba A, Czemplik M, Kulma A, Wojtasik W. Influence of the Bioactive Diet Components on the Gene Expression Regulation. Nutrients 2021; 13:3673. [PMID: 34835928 PMCID: PMC8619229 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diet bioactive components, in the concept of nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics, consist of food constituents, which can transfer information from the external environment and influence gene expression in the cell and thus the function of the whole organism. It is crucial to regard food not only as the source of energy and basic nutriments, crucial for living and organism development, but also as the factor influencing health/disease, biochemical mechanisms, and activation of biochemical pathways. Bioactive components of the diet regulate gene expression through changes in the chromatin structure (including DNA methylation and histone modification), non-coding RNA, activation of transcription factors by signalling cascades, or direct ligand binding to the nuclear receptors. Analysis of interactions between diet components and human genome structure and gene activity is a modern approach that will help to better understand these relations and will allow designing dietary guidances, which can help maintain good health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Mierziak
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Kamil Kostyn
- Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding & Seed Production, Faculty of Life Sciences and Technology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 24A, 50-363 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Boba
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Magdalena Czemplik
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Anna Kulma
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.); (A.K.)
| | - Wioleta Wojtasik
- Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.B.); (M.C.); (A.K.)
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26
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You Z, Peng D, Cao Y, Zhu Y, Yin J, Zhang G, Peng X. P53 suppresses the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma via miR-15a by decreasing OGT expression and EZH2 stabilization. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:9168-9182. [PMID: 34510715 PMCID: PMC8500955 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing literature has highlighted the tumour suppressive capacity of microRNA-15a (miR-15a); however, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains relatively unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-15a in HCC and the associated underlying mechanism. Initially, RT-qPCR was performed to detect the expression of miR-15a in HCC tissues and cells. Bioinformatics analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and molecular approaches were all conducted to ascertain the interaction between miR-15a and O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) transferase (OGT). PUGNAc treatment and cycloheximide (CHX) assay were performed to evaluate O-GlcNAc and the stabilization of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Finally, gain- and loss-of-function studies were employed to elucidate the role of P53 and the miR-15a/OGT/EZH2 axis in the progression of HCC, followed by in vivo experiments based on tumour-bearing nude mice. Our results demonstrated that the miR-15a expression was decreased in the HCC tissues and cells. P53 upregulated miR-15a expression, which inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells, while inducing apoptosis and triggering a G0/G1 cell cycle phase arrest. OGT stabilized EZH2 via catalysing O-GlcNAc, which reversed the effect of P53 and miR-15a. The results of our in vivo study provided evidence demonstrating that P53 could suppress the development of HCC via the miR-15a/OGT/EZH2 axis. P53 was found to inhibit the OGT expression by promoting the expression of miR-15a, which destabilized EZH2 and suppressed the development of HCC. The key findings of our study highlight a promising novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu You
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Dandan Peng
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yixin Cao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuanzhe Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jianjun Yin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Guangxing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaodong Peng
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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27
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Wang Y, Chen X, Li J, Xia C. Quercetin Antagonizes Esophagus Cancer by Modulating miR-1-3p/TAGLN2 Pathway-Dependent Growth and Metastasis. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1872-1881. [PMID: 34498538 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1972125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The progression of esophagus cancer (EC) is associated with the alterative expressions of multiple microRNAs (miRs). MiR-1-3p is reported to inhibit the development of EC by targeting TAGLN2. Quercetin (Que) is a natural compound capable of antagonizing esophagus carcinoma (EC). In the current study, the role of miR-1-3p/TAGLN2 axis in the anti-EC function of Que was explored. Human EC cell lines KYSE-510 and TE-7 were treated with Que. Then the effects of Que on the growth and metastasis of EC cells, and on the activity of miR-1-3p/TAGLN2 axis were detected. The interaction between Que and miR-1-3p axis was further assessed by inhibiting miR-1-3p level in EC cells. The results showed that the treatment of Que impaired the growth and induced cell apoptosis in EC cells. The invasive ability of EC cells was also suppressed by Que. At molecular level, the expression of miR-1-3p was induced, while the expression of TAGLN2 was suppressed by Que. Moreover, the anti-EC effects of Que were blocked by miR-1-3p inhibition, which was represented by the restored growth and invasion of EC cells. Collectively, the current study demonstrated that Que exerted inhibitory effects on EC cells by inducing miR-1-3p.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2021.1972125.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyin Wang
- Endoscopy Center, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Joint Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chenmei Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
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28
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Mahmoud MM, Sanad EF, Hamdy NM. MicroRNAs' role in the environment-related non-communicable diseases and link to multidrug resistance, regulation, or alteration. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:36984-37000. [PMID: 34046834 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14550-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) 20 years ago has advocated a new era of "small molecular genetics." About 2000 miRNAs are present that regulate one third of the genome. MiRNA dysregulated expression arising as a response to our environment insult or stress or changes may contribute to several diseases, namely non-communicable diseases, including tumor growth. Their presence in body fluids, reflecting level alteration in various cancers, merit circulating miRNAs as the "next-generation biomarkers" for early-stage tumor diagnosis and/or prognosis. Herein, we performed a comprehensive literature search focusing on the origin, biosynthesis, and role of miRNAs and summarized the foremost studies centering on miR value as non-invasive biomarkers in different environment-related non-communicable diseases, including various cancer types. Moreover, during chemotherapy, many miRNAs were linked to multidrug resistance, via modulating numerous, environment triggered or not, biological processes and/or pathways that will be highlighted as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M Mahmoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman F Sanad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nadia M Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt.
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29
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Shen Y, Xu Y, Huang L, Chi Y, Meng L. MiR-205 suppressed the malignant behaviors of breast cancer cells by targeting CLDN11 via modulation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:13073-13086. [PMID: 33971623 PMCID: PMC8148491 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202988] [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: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Some Aberrant expression of miRNAs plays an important role in the occurrence and distant metastasis of breast cancer. This study aimed to identify crucial miRNA signatures for breast cancer using microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, including ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive duct carcinoma. In this study, we founded that miR-205 was significantly down-regulated in breast cancer, and the low expression of miR-205 was significantly associated with the TNM stage of breast cancer. In vitro, functional studies revealed that over-expression of miR-205 inhibited the proliferation and promoted apoptosis of breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231. Mechanistically, claudin 11 (CLDN11) was found to be the direct target of miR-205; the function of miR-205 could be exerted via downregulation of the target gene CLDN11 in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the over-expression of miR-205 promoted the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin but reduced the mesenchymal markers in breast cancer cells. These results collectively indicated the tumor-suppressive role of miR-205 in breast cancer by targeting CLDN11; implying miR-205 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Shen
- Medical School of Shaoxing University, Yuecheng, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingchun Xu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Liming Huang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongxin Chi
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwei Meng
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shaoxing People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312000, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
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30
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Abdallah RM, Elkhouly AM, Soliman RA, El Meckawy N, El Sebaei A, Motaal AA, El-Askary H, Youness RA, Assal RA. Hindering The Synchronization Between Mir-486-5p And H19 Lncrna By Hesperetin Halts Breast Cancer Aggressiveness Through Tuning ICAM-1. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:586-595. [PMID: 33882812 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210419093652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, a novel crosstalk between non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has been casted. However, this has been seldomly investigated in metastatic BC (mBC). H19 and miR-486-5p role in mBC is controversial. ICAM-1 is a recently recognized metastatic engine in mBC. Natural compounds were recently found to alter ncRNAs/target circuits. Yet, Hesperitin modulatory role in altering such circuits has never been investigated in mBC. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of hesperitin on miR-486-5p/H19/ICAM-1 axis Methodology: BC patients (n=20) were recruited in the study. Bioinformatic analysis was performed using different prediction softwares. MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were cultured and transfected using several oligonucleotides or treated with serial dilutions of hesperitin. RNA was extracted and gene expression analysis was performed using q-RT-PCR. ICAM-1 protein levels were assessed using human ICAM-1 Elisa Kit. Cytotoxic potential of hesperitin against normal cells was assessed by LDH assay. Several functional analysis experiments were performed such as MTT, colony forming and migration assays. RESULTS The study showed that miR-486-5p and H19 has a paradoxical expression profiles in mBC patients. miR-486-5p mimics and H19 siRNAs repressed ICAM-1 and halted mBC hallmarks. A novel crosstalk between miR-486-5p and H19 was observed highlighting a bi-directional relationship between them. Hesperetin restored the expression of miR-486-5p, inhibited H19 lncRNA and ICAM-1 expression and selectively regressed mBC cell aggressiveness. CONCLUSION miR-486-5p and H19 are inter-connected upstream regulators for ICAM-1 building up miR-486-5p/H19/ICAM-1 axis that has been successfully tuned in mBC cells by hesperitin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramah M Abdallah
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aisha M Elkhouly
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Raghda A Soliman
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed El Sebaei
- Pathology Department International Medical center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira A Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Rana A Youness
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reem A Assal
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
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A. Youness R, Kamel R, A. Elkasabgy N, Shao P, A. Farag M. Recent Advances in Tannic Acid (Gallotannin) Anticancer Activities and Drug Delivery Systems for Efficacy Improvement; A Comprehensive Review. Molecules 2021; 26:1486. [PMID: 33803294 PMCID: PMC7967207 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26051486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tannic acid is a chief gallo-tannin belonging to the hydrolysable tannins extracted from gall nuts and other plant sources. A myriad of pharmaceutical and biological applications in the medical field has been well recognized to tannic acid. Among these effects, potential anticancer activities against several solid malignancies such as liver, breast, lung, pancreatic, colorectal and ovarian cancers have been reported. Tannic acid was found to play a maestro-role in tuning several oncological signaling pathways including JAK/STAT, RAS/RAF/mTOR, TGF-β1/TGF-β1R axis, VEGF/VEGFR and CXCL12/CXCR4 axes. The combinational beneficial effects of tannic acid with other conventional chemotherapeutic drugs have been clearly demonstrated in literature such as a synergistic anticancer effect and enhancement of the chemo-sensitivity in several resistant cases. Yet, clinical applications of tannic acid have been limited owing to its poor lipid solubility, low bioavailability, off-taste, and short half-life. To overcome such obstacles, novel drug delivery systems have been employed to deliver tannic acid with the aim of improving its applications and/or efficacy against cancer cells. Among these drug delivery systems are several types of organic and metallic nanoparticles. In this review, the authors focus on the molecular mechanisms of tannic acid in tuning several neoplastic diseases as well as novel drug delivery systems that can be used for its clinical applications with an attempt to provide a systemic reference to promote the development of tannic acid as a cheap drug and/or drug delivery system in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana A. Youness
- The Molecular Genetics Research Team, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy andBiotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 12622, Egypt;
| | - Rabab Kamel
- Pharmaceutical Technology Department, National Research Centre, Cairo 12622, Egypt;
| | - Nermeen A. Elkasabgy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt;
| | - Ping Shao
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China;
| | - Mohamed A. Farag
- Pharmacognosy Department, College of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
- Chemistry Department, School of Sciences & Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
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Nafea H, Youness RA, Abou-Aisha K, Gad MZ. LncRNA HEIH/miR-939-5p interplay modulates triple-negative breast cancer progression through NOS2-induced nitric oxide production. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:5362-5372. [PMID: 33368266 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to unravel the regulatory role of noncoding RNAs (ncRNA) on the nitric oxide (NO) machinery system in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients and to further assess the influence of NO-modulating ncRNAs on TNBC progression, immunogenic profile, and the tumor microenvironment (TME). The results revealed miR-939-5p and lncRNA HEIH as novel ncRNAs modulating NO machinery in TNBC. MiR-939-5p, an underexpressed microRNA (miRNA) in BC patients, showed an inhibitory effect on NOS2 and NOS3 transcript levels on TNBC cells. In contrast, HEIH was found to be markedly upregulated in TNBC patients and showed a modulatory role on miR-939-5p/NOS2/NO axis. Functionally, miR-939-5p was characterized as a tumor suppressor miRNA while HEIH was categorized as a novel oncogenic lncRNA in TNBC. Finally, knocking down of HEIH resulted in improvement of immunogenic profile of TNBC cells through inducing MICA/B and suppressing the immune checkpoint inhibitor PDL1. In the same context, knockdown of HEIH resulted in the alleviation of the immune-suppressive TME by repressing interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels. In conclusion, this study identifies miR-939-5p as a tumor suppressor miRNA while HEIH as an oncogenic lncRNA exhibiting its effect through miR-939-5p/NOS2/NO axis. Therefore, repressing BC hallmarks, improving TNBC immunogenic profile, and trimming TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Nafea
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Egypt
| | - Khaled Abou-Aisha
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z Gad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Egypt
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Abdel Motaal A, Salem HH, Almaghaslah D, Alsayari A, Bin Muhsinah A, Alfaifi MY, Elbehairi SEI, Shati AA, El-Askary H. Flavonol Glycosides: In Vitro Inhibition of DPPIV, Aldose Reductase and Combating Oxidative Stress are Potential Mechanisms for Mediating the Antidiabetic Activity of Cleome droserifolia. Molecules 2020; 25:E5864. [PMID: 33322431 PMCID: PMC7764826 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25245864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a major health problem that is associated with high risk of various complications. Medicinal plants hold great promise against diabetes. The traditional use of Cleome droserifolia as an antidiabetic agent was correlated to its flavonol glycosides content. In the current study, five major flavonol glycosides appeared on the RP-HPLC chromatogram of the aqueous extract namely; quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucosyl-7-O-α-rhamnoside (1), isorhamnetin-7-O-β-neohesperidoside (2), isorhamnetin-3-O-β-d-glucoside (3) kaempferol-4'-methoxy-3,7-O-α-dirhamnoside (4), and isorhamnetin-3-O-α-(4″-acetylrhamnoside)-7-O-α-rhamnoside (5). The inhibitory activities of these compounds were tested in vitro against several enzymes involved in diabetes management. Only the relatively less polar methoxylated flavonol glycosides (4, 5) showed mild to moderate α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Compounds 1-4 displayed remarkable inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) enzyme (IC50 0.194 ± 0.06, 0.573 ± 0.03, 0.345 ± 0.02 and 0.281 ± 0.05 µg/mL, respectively) comparable to vildagliptin (IC50 0.154 ± 0.02 µg/mL). Moreover, these compounds showed high potential in preventing diabetes complications through inhibiting aldose reductase enzyme and combating oxidative stress. Both isorhamnetin glycoside derivatives (2, 3) exhibited the highest activities in aldose reductase inhibition and compound 2 (IC50 5.45 ± 0.26 µg/mL) was even more potent than standard quercetin (IC50 7.77 ± 0.43 µg/mL). Additionally, these flavonols exerted excellent antioxidant capacities through 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant (FRAP) assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Abdel Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.B.M.)
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt;
| | - Heba H. Salem
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt;
- College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dalia Almaghaslah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulrhman Alsayari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.B.M.)
| | - Abdullatif Bin Muhsinah
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.B.M.)
| | - Mohammad Y. Alfaifi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 9004, Saudi Arabia; (M.Y.A.); (S.E.I.E.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Serag Eldin I. Elbehairi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 9004, Saudi Arabia; (M.Y.A.); (S.E.I.E.); (A.A.S.)
- Cell Culture Laboratory, Egyptian Organization for Biological Products and Vaccines, VACSERA Holding Company, Giza 22311, Egypt
| | - Ali A. Shati
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 9004, Saudi Arabia; (M.Y.A.); (S.E.I.E.); (A.A.S.)
| | - Hesham El-Askary
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt;
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Youness RA, Gad AZ, Sanber K, Ahn YJ, Lee GJ, Khallaf E, Hafez HM, Motaal AA, Ahmed N, Gad MZ. Targeting hydrogen sulphide signaling in breast cancer. J Adv Res 2020; 27:177-190. [PMID: 33318876 PMCID: PMC7728592 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) has been established as a key member of the gasotransmitters family that recently showed a pivotal role in various pathological conditions including cancer. Objectives This study investigated the role of H2S in breast cancer (BC) pathogenesis, on BC immune recognition capacity and the consequence of targeting H2S using non-coding RNAs. Methods Eighty BC patients have been recruited for the study. BC cell lines were cultured and transfected using validated oligonucleotide delivery system. Gene and protein expression analysis was performed using qRT-PCR, western blot and flow-cytometry. In-vitro analysis for BC hallmarks was performed using MTT, BrdU, Modified Boyden chamber, migration and colony forming assays. H2S and nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Primary natural killer cells (NK cells) and T cell isolation and chimeric antigen receptor transduction (CAR T cells) were performed using appropriate kits. NK and T cells cytotoxicity was measured. Finally, computational target prediction analysis and binding confirmation analyses were performed using different software and dual luciferase assay kit, respectively. Results The H2S synthesizing enzymes, cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), exhibited elevated levels in the clinical samples that correlated with tumor proliferation index. Knock-down of CBS and CSE in the HER2+ BC and triple negative BC (TNBC) cells resulted in significant attenuation of BC malignancy. In addition to increased susceptibility of HER2+ BC and TNBC to the cytotoxic activity of HER2 targeting CAR T cells and NK cells, respectively. Transcriptomic and phosphoprotein analysis revealed that H2S signaling is mediated through Akt in MCF7, STAT3 in MDA-MB-231 and miR-155/ NOS2/NO signaling in both cell lines. Lastly, miR-4317 was found to function as an upstream regulator of CBS and CSE synergistically abrogates the malignancy of BC cells. Conclusion These findings demonstrate the potential role of H2S signaling in BC pathogenesis and the potential of its targeting for disease mitigation.
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Key Words
- 41BBL, 41BB Ligand
- 51Cr-release, Chromium release assay
- BC, Breast Cancer
- Breast cancer
- CAR T cells
- CAR, Chimeric antigen receptor
- CBS, Cystathionine β-synthase
- CD80, Cluster of differentiation 80
- CD86, Cluster of differentiation 86
- CSE, Cystathionine γ-lyase
- CTL, Cytotoxic T lymphocyte
- H2S, Hydrogen sulphide
- HCC, Hepatocellular carcinoma
- HLA-DR, Human Leukocytic antigen DR
- Hydrogen sulphide
- IFN-γ, Interferon gamma
- KD, Knock down
- LDH, Lactate dehydrogenase Assay
- MICA/B, MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A/B
- NK, Natural killer
- NKG2D, Natural Killer Group 2D
- NO, Nitric oxide
- NOS2, Inducible nitric oxide synthase-2
- NOS3, Endothelial nitric oxide synthase-3
- Natural killer cells
- Nitric oxide
- PD-L1, Programmed death-ligand 1
- PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
- Scr-miRNAs, Scrambled microRNAs
- Scr-siRNAs, Scrambled siRNAs
- TNBC, Triple negative breast cancer
- TNF-α, Tumor necrosis factor-α
- ULBP2/5/6, UL16 binding protein 2/5/6
- miR-155/NOS2/NO signaling pathway
- miR-4317
- miRNA, MicroRNA
- ncRNAs, Non-coding RNAs
- siRNAs, Small interfering RNAs
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Ahmed Youness
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Zakaria Gad
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Khaled Sanber
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yong Jin Ahn
- Department of Medical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Ja Lee
- Department of Medical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Emad Khallaf
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 12613 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hafez Mohamed Hafez
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 12613 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Abdel Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Nabil Ahmed
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston Methodist Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mohamed Zakaria Gad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Egypt
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ElKhouly AM, Youness RA, Gad MZ. MicroRNA-486-5p and microRNA-486-3p: Multifaceted pleiotropic mediators in oncological and non-oncological conditions. Noncoding RNA Res 2020; 5:11-21. [PMID: 31993547 PMCID: PMC6971376 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite historically known as "junk" DNA, nowadays non-coding RNA transcripts (ncRNAs) are considered as fundamental players in various physiological and pathological conditions. Nonetheless, any alteration in their expression level has been reported to be directly associated with the incidence and aggressiveness of several diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the well-studied members of the ncRNAs family. Several reports have highlighted their crucial roles in the post-transcriptional manipulation of several signaling pathways in different pathological conditions. In this review, our main focus is the multifaceted microRNA-486 (miR-486). miR-486-5p and miR-486-3p have been reported to have central roles in several types oncological and non-oncological conditions such as lung, liver, breast cancers and autism, intervertebral disc degeneration and metabolic syndrome, respectively. Moreover, we spotted the light onto the pleiotropic role of miR-486-5p in acting as competing endogenous RNA with other members of ncRNAs family such as long non-coding RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha M ElKhouly
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - R A Youness
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M Z Gad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
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Awad AR, Youness RA, Ibrahim M, Motaal AA, El-Askary HI, Assal RA, Gad MZ. An acetylated derivative of vitexin halts MDA-MB-231 cellular progression and improves its immunogenic profile through tuning miR- 20a-MICA/B axis. Nat Prod Res 2019; 35:3126-3130. [PMID: 31691589 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2019.1686372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The activating immune ligands, MICA/B, act as a "kill me" signal through the NKG2D receptor expressed on natural killer (NK) cells. Recently, the oncogenic miR-20a was found to mediate immune escape through repressing MICA/B levels in breast cancer (BC) cells. However, targeting miR-20a-MICA/B using natural compounds has rarely been investigated. Our group has successfully isolated 3'-O-acetylvitexin that showed cytotoxic effects against colon cancer cells but has never been evaluated in BC. Our aim is to investigate the effects of 3'-O-acetylvitexin on BC cell lines and to further elucidate its molecular mechanism of action.The results showed that 3'-O-acetylvitex depicted a more pronounced dose-dependent repression of TNBC cellular viability, colonogenicity and migration capacity than Vitexin. 3'-O-acetylvitexin treatment resulted in a marked dose-dependent repression of miR-20a with a concomitant dose-dependent increase in MICA/B expression. In conclusion, 3'-O-acetylvitexin might act as a promising therapeutic agent for TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya R Awad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A Youness
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M Ibrahim
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Abdel Motaal
- Pharmacognosy Department, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hesham I El-Askary
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reem A Assal
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z Gad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
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MicroRNA targeting by quercetin in cancer treatment and chemoprotection. Pharmacol Res 2019; 147:104346. [PMID: 31295570 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of evidences from clinical and preclinical studies have shown that dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) function contributes to the progression of cancer and thus miRNA can be an effective target in therapy. Dietary phytochemicals, such as quercetin, are natural products that have potential anti-cancer properties due to their proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects. Available experimental studies indicate that quercetin could modulate multiple cancer-relevant miRNAs including let-7, miR-21, miR-146a and miR-155, thereby inhibiting cancer initiation and development. This paper reviews the data supporting the use of quercetin for miRNA-mediated chemopreventive and therapeutic strategies in various cancers, with the aim to comprehensively understand its health-promoting benefits and pharmacological potential. Integration of technology platforms for miRNAs biomarker and drug discovery is also presented.
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Youness RA, Hafez HM, Khallaf E, Assal RA, Abdel Motaal A, Gad MZ. The long noncoding RNA sONE represses triple-negative breast cancer aggressiveness through inducing the expression of miR-34a, miR-15a, miR-16, and let-7a. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:20286-20297. [PMID: 30968427 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents an aggressive breast cancer subtype. Among young females, TNBC is the leading cause of cancer-related mortalities. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are representing a promising pool of regulators for tuning the aggressiveness of several solid malignancies. However, this still needs further investigations in TNBC. The main aim of this study is to unravel the expression pattern of sONE lncRNA and its mechanistic role in TNBC. Results showed that sONE is restrictedly expressed in TNBC patients; its expression level is inversely correlated with the aggressiveness of the disease. sONE acts as a posttranscriptional regulator to endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and thus affecting eNOS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production from TNBC cells measured by Greiss reagent. Mechanistically, sONE is a potential tumor suppressor lncRNA in TNBC cells; repressing cellular viability, proliferation, colony-forming ability, migration, and invasion capacities of MDA-MB-231. Furthermore, sONE effects were found to be extended to affect the maestro tumor suppressor TP53 and the oncogenic transcription factor c-Myc. Knocking down of sONE resulted in a marked decrease in TP53 and increase in c-Myc and consequently altering the expression status of their downstream tumor suppressor microRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR-34a, miR-15, miR-16, and let-7a. In conclusion, this study highlights sONE as a downregulated tumor suppressor lncRNA in TNBC cells acting through repressing eNOS-induced NO production, affecting TP53 and c-Myc proteins levels and finally altering the levels of a panel of tumor suppressor miRNAs downstream TP53/c-Myc proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana A Youness
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hafez M Hafez
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Kasr Al-Ainy, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Emad Khallaf
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Kasr Al-Ainy, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reem A Assal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Abdel Motaal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z Gad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, New Cairo City, Cairo, Egypt
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