Autophagy inhibition mediated by MCOLN1/TRPML1 suppresses cancer metastasis via regulating a ROS-driven TP53/p53 pathway

The protective role of baicalin regulation of autophagy in cancers

Autophagy is a conservative process of self degradation, in which abnormal organelles, proteins and other macromolecules are encapsulated and transferred to lysosomes for subsequent degradation. It maintains the intracellular balance, and responds to cellular conditions such as hunger or stress. To date, there are mainly three types of autophagy: macroautophagy, microautophagy and chaperone-mediated autophagy. Autophagy plays a key role in regulating multiple physiological and pathological processes, such as cell metabolism, development, energy homeostasis, cell death and hunger adaptation, and so on. Increasing evidence indicates that autophagy dysfunction participates in many kinds of cancers, such as liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and so on. However, the relevant mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Baicalin is a natural flavonoid compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria baicalensis. The research has shown that after oral or intravenous administration of baicalin, it is delivered to various organs through the systemic circulation, with the highest volume in the kidneys and lungs. More and more evidence suggests that baicalin has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, immunomodulatory and antiviral effects. Therefore, baicalin plays an important role in various diseases, such as cancers, lung diseases, liver diseases, cardiovascular diseases, ans so on. However, the relevant mechanisms have not yet been fully clear. Recently, increasing evidence indicates that baicalin participates in different cancer by regulating autophagy. Herein, we reviewed the current knowledge about the role and mechanism of baicalin regulation of autophagy in multiple types of cancers to lay the theoretical foundation for future related researches.

NGR-Modified CAF-Derived exos Targeting Tumor Vasculature to Induce Ferroptosis and Overcome Chemoresistance in Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OS) chemoresistance presents a significant clinical challenge. This study aims to investigate the potential of using tumor vascular-targeting peptide NGR-modified cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs)-derived exosomes (exos) to deliver circ_0004872-encoded small peptides promoting autophagy-dependent ferroptosis to reverse chemoresistance in OS. Through combined single-cell transcriptome analysis and high-throughput sequencing, it identified circ_0004872 associated with chemoresistance. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that the small peptide encoded by this Circular RNA (circRNA) can effectively reverse chemoresistance by enhancing OS cell sensitivity to chemotherapy via the mechanism of promoting autophagy-dependent ferroptosis. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo results confirmed the efficient delivery of NGR-modified CAFs-derived exo-packaged circ_0004872-109aa to tumor cells, thereby improving targeted therapy efficacy. This study not only offers a novel strategy to overcome chemoresistance in OS but also highlights the potential application value of utilizing exos for drug delivery.

Fasting enhances the efficacy of Sorafenib in breast cancer via mitophagy mediated ROS-driven p53 pathway

The multi-kinase inhibitor sorafenib has shown potential to inhibit tumor cell growth and intra-tumoral angiogenesis by targeting several kinases, including VEGFR2 and RAF. Abnormal activation of the Ras/Raf/MAPK/ERK kinase cascade and the VEGF pathway is a common feature in breast cancer. However, the efficacy of sorafenib in breast cancer treatment remains limited. Recently, fasting has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to modulate cancer metabolism and enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies. In this study, we found that fasting significantly enhances the anti-cancer effects of sorafenib monotherapy and its combination with immunotherapy in breast cancer models without causing obvious side effects. This combined treatment effectively inhibits tumor cell proliferation and intra-tumoral angiogenesis. The fasting-induced reduction in peripheral blood glucose levels strongly correlated with enhanced sensitivity to sorafenib. Mechanistically, the combined treatment induced mitophagy, characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and activation of the PINK1-Parkin pathway. Consequently, increased mitochondrial ROS levels promoted p53 expression, amplifying cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, fasting reduced lactate levels within the tumor, and the consequent glucose limitation synergized with sorafenib to activate AMPK, which in turn elevated PD-L1 expression in tumor cells, potentially enhancing their sensitivity to immunotherapy. In summary, our findings demonstrate that fasting and sorafenib, as a rational combination therapy, induce mitophagy, thereby enhancing sorafenib's efficacy in treating breast cancer through the ROS-driven p53 pathway. This study underscores the potential of fasting in breast cancer therapy and provides a foundation for optimizing the clinical application of sorafenib.

Actl6a regulates autophagy via Sox2-dependent Atg5 and Atg7 expression to inhibit apoptosis in spinal cord injury

INTRODUCTION

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe central nervous system disorder with limited treatment options. While autophagy plays a protective role in neural repair, its regulatory mechanisms in SCI remain unclear. Actin-like protein 6A (Actl6a) influences cell fate and neural development, yet its specific role in SCI repair is not well understood. This study investigates Actl6a's function in regulating autophagy and apoptosis via the transcription factor Sox2 in SCI.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to determine if Actl6a promotes neural survival post-SCI by regulating autophagy-related genes Atg5 and Atg7 through Sox2. It also examines how the demethylase Fto modulates Actl6a mRNA stability via m6A methylation.

METHODS

In vitro experiments were conducted using primary neurons and HT-22 hippocampal cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress. Actl6a expression was manipulated by knockdown or overexpression. For in vivo studies, a rat SCI model was established with AAV-Actl6a injected at the injury site to induce Actl6a overexpression. Autophagy and apoptosis markers were analyzed using immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and qPCR. Additionally, m6A dot blot and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were performed to assess Fto's role in regulating Actl6a mRNA methylation and stability.

RESULTS

Actl6a expression significantly decreased after SCI, resulting in increased apoptosis. Overexpressing Actl6a enhanced autophagy, reduced apoptosis, and improved neurological function in SCI models. Mechanistically, Actl6a and Sox2 collaboratively upregulated Atg5 and Atg7 expression, promoting autophagy. Fto's modulation of Actl6a mRNA stability via m6A demethylation further influenced autophagy and apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Actl6a, through interaction with Sox2, plays a critical role in modulating autophagy and reducing apoptosis in SCI, with Fto's m6A modification affecting Actl6a stability. This Fto/Actl6a/Sox2 axis is a promising therapeutic target for SCI repair.

Lysosomes finely control macrophage inflammatory function via regulating the release of lysosomal Fe2+ through TRPML1 channel

Lysosomes are best known for their roles in inflammatory responses by engaging in autophagy to remove inflammasomes. Here, we describe an unrecognized role for the lysosome, showing that it finely controls macrophage inflammatory function by manipulating the lysosomal Fe2+-prolyl hydroxylase domain enzymes (PHDs)-NF-κB-interleukin 1 beta (IL1B) transcription pathway that directly links lysosomes with inflammatory responses. TRPML1, a lysosomal cationic channel, is activated secondarily to ROS elevation upon inflammatory stimuli, which in turn suppresses IL1B transcription, thus limiting the excessive production of IL-1β in macrophages. Mechanistically, the suppression of IL1B transcription caused by TRPML1 activation results from its modulation on the release of lysosomal Fe2+, which subsequently activates PHDs. The activated PHDs then represses transcriptional activity of NF-κB, ultimately resulting in suppressed IL1B transcription. More importantly, in vivo stimulation of TRPML1 ameliorates multiple clinical signs of Dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice, suggesting TRPML1 has potential in treating inflammatory bowel disease.

Autophagy in brain tumors: molecular mechanisms, challenges, and therapeutic opportunities

Autophagy is responsible for maintaining cellular balance and ensuring survival. Autophagy plays a crucial role in the development of diseases, particularly human cancers, with actions that can either promote survival or induce cell death. However, brain tumors contribute to high levels of both mortality and morbidity globally, with resistance to treatments being acquired due to genetic mutations and dysregulation of molecular mechanisms, among other factors. Hence, having knowledge of the role of molecular processes in the advancement of brain tumors is enlightening, and the current review specifically examines the role of autophagy. The discussion would focus on the molecular pathways that control autophagy in brain tumors, and its dual role as a tumor suppressor and a supporter of tumor survival. Autophagy can control the advancement of different types of brain tumors like glioblastoma, glioma, and ependymoma, demonstrating its potential for treatment. Autophagy mechanisms can influence metastasis and drug resistance in glioblastoma, and there is a complex interplay between autophagy and cellular responses to stress like hypoxia and starvation. Autophagy can inhibit the growth of brain tumors by promoting apoptosis. Hence, focusing on autophagy could offer fresh perspectives on creating successful treatments.

Getah virus triggers ROS-mediated autophagy in mouse Leydig cells

Introduction

Getah virus (GETV) is a zoonotic virus transmitted via a mosquito-vertebrate cycle. While previous studies have explored the epidemiology and pathogenicity of GETV in various species, its molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored.

Methods

This study investigated the impact of GETV infection and associated molecular mechanisms on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and autophagy levels in mouse Leydig cells both in vivo and in vitro. The male mice and TM3 cells were treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to reduce cellular ROS levels. Rapamycin (Rapa) and 3-Methyladenine (3- MA) were used to change autophagy in both infected and uninfected TM3 cells.

Results and Discussion

The findings revealed that GETV infection in mouse testes speciffcally targeted Leydig cells and induced oxidative stress while enhancing autophagy in testicular tissue. Using TM3 cells as an in vitro model, the study confirmed GETV replication in this cell line, triggering increased ROS and autophagy levels. Treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to reduce cellular ROS levels markedly reduced autophagy in testicular tissue and TM3 cells infected with GETV. Interestingly, the use of rapamycin (Rapa) and 3-Methyladenine (3- MA) led to autophagy change in both infected and uninfected TM3 cells, with no signiffcant alterations in cellular ROS levels. These results indicate that GETV infection elevates ROS levels, subsequently inducing autophagy in mouse Leydig cells. We also found that autophagy plays an important role in GETV replication. When autophagy levels were reduced using NAC and 3-MA, a corresponding decrease in TCID50 was observed. Conversely, upregulation of autophagy using Rapa resulted in an increase in TCID50 of GETV. Therefore, we speculate that GETV may exploit the autophagy pathway to facilitate its replication. These ffndings illuminate the interplay between GETV and host cells, providing valuable insights for therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy in GETV infections.

The contribution of the novel CLTC-VMP1 fusion gene to autophagy regulation and energy metabolism in cisplatin-resistant osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly malignant tumor, and chemotherapy resistance is a major challenge in the treatment of this disease. This study aims to explore the role of the CLTC-VMP1 gene fusion in the mechanism of chemotherapy resistance in OS and investigate its molecular mechanisms in mediating energy metabolism reprogramming by regulating autophagy and apoptosis balance. Using single-cell transcriptome analysis, the heterogeneity of OS cells and their correlation with resistance to platinum drugs were revealed. Cisplatin-resistant cell lines were established in human OS cell lines for subsequent experiments. Based on transcriptomic analysis, the importance of VMP1 in chemotherapy resistance was confirmed. Lentiviral vectors overexpressing or interfering with VMP1 were used, and it was observed that inhibiting VMP1 could reverse cisplatin resistance, promote cell apoptosis, and inhibit autophagy, and mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis. Furthermore, the presence of CLTC-VMP1 gene fusion was validated, and its ability to regulate autophagy and apoptosis balance, promote mitochondrial respiration, and glycolysis was demonstrated. Mouse model experiments further confirmed the promoting effect of CLTC-VMP1 on tumor growth and chemotherapy resistance. In summary, the CLTC-VMP1 gene fusion mediates energy metabolism reprogramming by regulating autophagy and apoptosis balance, which promotes chemotherapy resistance in OS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study identifies the CLTC-VMP1 gene fusion as a key driver of chemotherapy resistance in osteosarcoma by regulating autophagy and reprogramming cellular energy metabolism. Through single-cell transcriptomics, the research reveals the heterogeneity of tumor cells and the role of VMP1 in promoting resistance to cisplatin. The findings suggest that targeting the CLTC-VMP1 fusion gene may offer new therapeutic strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance in osteosarcoma.

Molecular structure of polysaccharide mediated autophagy markers KIF23 and PRC1 proteins and their regulatory role in triple negative cancer through the p53 signaling pathway

As a process of intracellular degradation and recycling of its own components, abnormal regulation of autophagy has been strongly associated with the development of multiple cancer types, including triple-negative breast cancer. The amino acid sequences of KIF23 and PRC1 proteins were analyzed by bioinformatics method, their three-dimensional structures were predicted, and their interactions with polysaccharides were studied by molecular docking technology. The localization and expression patterns of KIF23 and PRC1 in cells were studied by cell biology techniques. By constructing breast cancer cell lines that stably overexpress or knock down KIF23 and PRC1, we evaluated the effect of these proteins on autophagy activity. Finally, molecular biological methods such as Western blot and real-time quantitative PCR were used to detect the expression changes of proteins related to p53 signaling pathway and the levels of autophagy markers such as LC3 and p62, thereby revealing the regulatory effects of KIF23 and PRC1 on autophagy of triple-negative breast cancer cells through p53 signaling pathway. The study found that the KIF23 and PRC1 proteins have complex three-dimensional structures, and their interactions with polysaccharides may affect their function during cell division and autophagy. In triple-negative breast cancer cells, overexpression of KIF23 and PRC1 significantly enhanced autophagy activity, while knockdown of these proteins inhibited autophagy. Further experiments showed that KIF23 and PRC1 regulate the expression of autophagy related proteins by influencing the activity of p53 signaling pathway. Overexpression of KIF23 and PRC1 led to inhibition of the p53 signaling pathway, while knocking down these proteins activated the p53 signaling pathway, which was consistent with reduced autophagy activity.

Regulation of autophagy and cellular signaling through non-histone protein methylation

Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic pathway that is precisely regulated and plays a significant role in maintaining cellular metabolic balance and intracellular homeostasis. Abnormal autophagy is directly linked to the development of various diseases, particularly immune disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and tumors. The precise regulation of proteins is crucial for proper cellular function, and post-translational modifications (PTMs) are key epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of numerous biological processes. Multiple proteins undergo PTMs that influence autophagy regulation. Methylation modifications on non-histone lysine and arginine residues have been identified as common PTMs critical to various life processes. This paper focused on the regulatory effects of non-histone methylation modifications on autophagy, summarizing related research on signaling pathways involved in autophagy-related non-histone methylation, and discussing current challenges and clinical significance. Our review concludes that non-histone methylation plays a pivotal role in the regulation of autophagy and its associated signaling pathways. Targeting non-histone methylation offers a promising strategy for therapeutic interventions in diseases related to autophagy dysfunction, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the development of non-histone-methylation-targeted drugs for clinical use.

Effective analysis of thyroid toxicity and mechanisms of acetyltributyl citrate using network toxicology, molecular docking and machine learning strategies

The growing prevalence of environmental pollutants has raised concerns about their potential role in thyroid dysfunction and related disorders. Previous research suggests that various chemicals, including plasticizers like acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), may adversely affect thyroid health, yet the precise mechanisms remain poorly understood. The objective of this study was to elucidate the complex effects of acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) on the thyroid gland and to clarify the potential molecular mechanisms by which environmental pollutants influence the disease process. Through an exhaustive exploration of databases such as ChEMBL, STITCH, and GEO, we identified a comprehensive list of 19 potential targets closely associated with ATBC and the thyroid gland. After rigorous screening using the STRING platform and Cytoscape software, we narrowed this list to 15 candidate targets, ultimately identifying five core targets: CBX5, HADHB, TRIM33, TP53, and CUL4A, utilizing three well-established machine learning methods. In-depth Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses conducted in the DAVID database revealed that the primary pathways through which ATBC affects the thyroid gland involve key signaling cascades, including the FoxO signaling pathway and metabolic pathways such as fatty acid metabolism. Furthermore, molecular docking simulations using Molecular Operating Environment software confirmed strong binding interactions between ATBC and these core targets, enhancing our understanding of their interactions. Overall, our findings provide a theoretical framework for comprehending the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying ATBC's effects on thyroid damage and pave the way for the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies against thyroid disorders caused by exposure to ATBC-containing plastics or overexposure to ATBC.

Recent advances in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive drug delivery systems for photodynamic therapy of cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive drug delivery systems (DDSs) have garnered significant attention in cancer research because of their potential for precise spatiotemporal drug release tailored to high ROS levels within tumors. Despite the challenges posed by ROS distribution heterogeneity and endogenous supply constraints, this review highlights the strategic alliance of ROS-responsive DDSs with photodynamic therapy (PDT), enabling selective drug delivery and leveraging PDT-induced ROS for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. This review delves into the biological importance of ROS in cancer progression and treatment. We elucidate in detail the operational mechanisms of ROS-responsive linkers, including thioether, thioketal, selenide, diselencide, telluride and aryl boronic acids/esters, as well as the latest developments in ROS-responsive nanomedicines that integrate with PDT strategies. These insights are intended to inspire the design of innovative ROS-responsive nanocarriers for enhanced cancer PDT.

Emerging mechanisms of lipid peroxidation in regulated cell death and its physiological implications

Regulated cell death (RCD) refers to the form of cell death that can be regulated by various biomacromolecules. Each cell death modalities have their distinct morphological changes and molecular mechanisms. However, intense evidences suggest that lipid peroxidation can be the common feature that initiates and propagates the cell death. Excessive lipid peroxidation alters the property of membrane and further damage the proteins and nucleic acids, which is implicated in various human pathologies. Here, we firstly review the classical chain process of lipid peroxidation, and further clarify the current understanding of the myriad roles and molecular mechanisms of lipid peroxidation in various RCD types. We also discuss how lipid peroxidation involves in diseases and how such intimate association between lipid peroxidation-driven cell death and diseases can be leveraged to develop rational therapeutic strategies.

Elafibranor alleviates alcohol-related liver fibrosis by restoring intestinal barrier function

We discuss the article by Koizumi et al published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Our focus is on the therapeutic targets for fibrosis associated with alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and the mechanism of action of elafibranor (EFN), a dual agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) and peroxisome PPAR δ (PPARδ). EFN is currently in phase III clinical trials for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and primary biliary cholangitis. ALD progresses from alcoholic fatty liver to alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), with chronic ASH eventually leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and, in some cases, hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathogenesis of ALD is driven by hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress, and acetaldehyde toxicity. Alcohol consumption disrupts lipid metabolism by inactivating PPARα, exacerbating the progression of ALD. EFN primarily activates PPARα, promoting lipolysis and β-oxidation in ethanol-stimulated HepG2 cells, which significantly reduces hepatic steatosis, apoptosis, and fibrosis in an ALD mouse model. Additionally, alcohol disrupts the gut-liver axis at several interconnected levels, contributing to a proinflammatory environment in the liver. EFN helps alleviate intestinal hyperpermeability by restoring tight junction protein expression and autophagy, inhibiting apoptosis and inflammatory responses, and enhancing intestinal barrier function through PPARδ activation.

ROS: A "booster" for chronic inflammation and tumor metastasis

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a group of highly active molecules produced by normal cellular metabolism and play a crucial role in the human body. In recent years, researchers have increasingly discovered that ROS plays a vital role in the progression of chronic inflammation and tumor metastasis. The inflammatory tumor microenvironment established by chronic inflammation can induce ROS production through inflammatory cells. ROS can then directly damage DNA or indirectly activate cellular signaling pathways to promote tumor metastasis and development, including breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and so on. This review aims to elucidate the relationship between ROS, chronic inflammation, and tumor metastasis, explaining how chronic inflammation can induce tumor metastasis and how ROS can contribute to the evolution of chronic inflammation toward tumor metastasis. Interestingly, ROS can have a "double-edged sword" effect, promoting tumor metastasis in some cases and inhibiting it in others. This article also highlights the potential applications of ROS in inhibiting tumor metastasis and enhancing the precision of tumor-targeted therapy. Combining ROS with nanomaterials strategies may be a promising approach to enhance the efficacy of tumor treatment.

SIRT1 silencing promotes EMT and Crizotinib resistance by regulating autophagy through AMPK/mTOR/S6K signaling pathway in EML4-ALK L1196M and EML4-ALK G1202R mutant non-small cell lung cancer cells

Most EML4-ALK rearrangement non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients inevitably develop acquired drug resistance after treatment. The main mechanism of drug resistance is the acquired secondary mutation of ALK kinase domain. L1196M and G1202R are classical mutation sites. We urgently need to understand the underlying molecular mechanism of drug resistance to study the therapeutic targets of mutant drug-resistant NSCLC cells. The silent information regulator sirtuin1 (SIRT1) can regulate the normal energy metabolism of cells, but its role in cancer is still unclear. In our report, it was found that the SIRT1 in EML4-ALK G1202R and EML4-ALK L1196M mutant drug-resistant cells was downregulated compared with EML4-ALK NSCLC cells. The high expression of SIRT1 was related to the longer survival time of patients with lung cancer. Activation of SIRT1 induced autophagy and suppressed the invasion and migration of mutant cells. Further experiments indicated that the activation of SIRT1 inhibited the phosphorylation level of mTOR and S6K by upregulating the expression of AMPK, thus activating autophagy. SIRT1 can significantly enhanced the sensitivity of mutant cells to crizotinib, improved its ability to promote apoptosis of mutant cells, and inhibited cell proliferation. In conclusion, SIRT1 is a key regulator of drug resistant in EML4-ALK L1196M and G1202R mutant cells. SIRT1 may be a novel therapeutic target for EML4-ALK drug resistant NSCLC.

Abnormal HCK/glutamine/autophagy axis promotes endometriosis development by impairing macrophage phagocytosis

The presence of extensive infiltrated macrophages with impaired phagocytosis is widely recognised as a significant regulator for the development of endometriosis (EMs). Nevertheless, the metabolic characteristics and the fundamental mechanism of impaired macrophage phagocytosis are yet to be clarified. Here, we observe that there is the decreased expression of haematopoietic cellular kinase (HCK) in macrophage of peritoneal fluid from EMs patients, which might be attributed to high oestrogen and hypoxia condition. Of note, HCK deficiency resulted in impaired macrophage phagocytosis, and increased number and weight of ectopic lesions in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, this process was mediated via regulation of glutamine metabolism, and further upregulation of macrophage autophagy in a c-FOS/c-JUN dependent manner. Additionally, macrophages of EMs patients displayed insufficient HCK, excessive autophagy and phagocytosis dysfunction. In therapeutic studies, supplementation with glutamine-pre-treated macrophage or Bafilomycin A1 (an autophagy inhibitor)-pre-treated macrophage leads to the induction of macrophage phagocytosis and suppression of EMs development. This observation reveals that the aberrant HCK-glutamine-autophagy axis results in phagocytosis obstacle of macrophage and further increase the development risk of Ems. Additionally, it offers potential therapeutic approaches to prevent EMs, especially patients with insufficient HCK and macrophage phagocytosis dysfunction.

Advances in natural products modulating autophagy influenced by cellular stress conditions and their anticancer roles in the treatment of ovarian cancer

Autophagy is a conservative catabolic process that typically serves a cell-protective function. Under stress conditions, when the cellular environment becomes unstable, autophagy is activated as an adaptive response for self-protection. Autophagy delivers damaged cellular components to lysosomes for degradation and recycling, thereby providing essential nutrients for cell survival. However, this function of promoting cell survival under stress conditions often leads to malignant progression and chemotherapy resistance in cancer. Consequently, autophagy is considered a potential target for cancer therapy. Herein, we aim to review how natural products act as key modulators of autophagy by regulating cellular stress conditions. We revisit various stressors, including starvation, hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and oxidative stress, and their regulatory relationship with autophagy, focusing on recent advances in ovarian cancer research. Additionally, we explore how polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and other natural products modulate autophagy mediated by stress responses, affecting the malignant biological behavior of cancer. Furthermore, we discuss their roles in ovarian cancer therapy. This review emphasizes the importance of natural products as valuable resources in cancer therapeutics, highlighting the need for further exploration of their potential in regulating autophagy. Moreover, it provides novel insights and potential therapeutic strategies in ovarian cancer by utilizing natural products to modulate autophagy.

Environmentally relevant concentration PFNA promotes degradation of SMAD7 to drive progression of ovarian cancer via TGF-β/SMADs signaling pathway

Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), an acknowledged environmental endocrine disruptor, is increasingly utilized as a substitute for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Despite its growing use, limited research has been conducted to investigate its potential impact on tumorigenesis and progression, and the potential molecular mechanisms. Earlier studies linked perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure to breast and gynecological cancer progression in humans, lacking a clear understanding of the underlying mechanisms, notably in ovarian cancer. Our investigation into PFNA's effects at environmental concentrations (0.25-2 mM) showed no significant impact on cell proliferation but a notable increase in invasion and migration of ovarian cancer cells. This led to alterations in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, including Claudin1, Vimentin, and Snail. Notably, PFNA exposure activated the TGF-β/SMADs signaling pathway. Crucially, SMAD7 degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system emerged as PFNA's pivotal molecular target for inducing EMT, corroborated in mouse models. In summary, this study presented evidence that environmentally relevant concentrations of PFNA could induce SMAD7 degradation via the proteasome pathway, subsequently activating the TGF-β/SMADs signaling pathway, and promoting EMT in ovarian cancer. These results illuminated the association between PFNA exposure and metastasis of ovarian cancer.

The role of liquid-liquid phase separation in defining cancer EMT

Cancer EMT is a pivotal process that drives carcinogenesis, metastasis, and cancer recurrence, with its initiation and regulation intricately governed by biochemical pathways in a precise spatiotemporal manner. Recently, the membrane-less biomolecular condensates formed via liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) have emerged as a universal mechanism underlying the spatiotemporal collaboration of biological activities in cancer EMT. In this review, we first elucidate the current understanding of LLPS formation and its cellular functions, followed by an overview of valuable tools for investigating LLPS. Secondly, we examine in detail the LLPS-mediated biological processes crucial for the initiation and regulation of cancer EMT. Lastly, we address current challenges in advancing LLPS research and explore the potential modulation of LLPS using therapeutic agents.

PEI/MMNs@LNA-542 nanoparticles alleviate ICU-acquired weakness through targeted autophagy inhibition and mitochondrial protection

Intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW) is prevalent in critical care, with limited treatment options. Certain microRNAs, like miR-542, are highly expressed in ICU-AW patients. This study investigates the regulatory role and mechanisms of miR-542 in ICU-AW and explores the clinical potential of miR-542 inhibitors. ICU-AW models were established in C57BL/6 mice through cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and in mouse C2C12 myoblasts through TNF-α treatment. In vivo experiments demonstrated decreased muscle strength, muscle fiber atrophy, widened intercellular spaces, and increased miR-542-3p/5p expression in ICU-AW mice model. In vitro experiments indicated suppressed ATG5, ATG7 and LC3II/I, elevated MDA and ROS levels, decreased SOD levels, and reduced MMP in the model group. Similar to animal experiments, the expression of miR-542-3p/5p was upregulated. Gel electrophoresis explored the binding of polyethyleneimine/mesoporous silica nanoparticles (PEI/MMNs) to locked nucleic acid (LNA) miR-542 inhibitor (LNA-542). PEI/MMNs@LNA-542 with positive charge (3.03 ± 0.363 mV) and narrow size (206.94 ± 6.19 nm) were characterized. Immunofluorescence indicated significant internalization with no apparent cytotoxicity. Biological activity, examined through intraperitoneal injection, showed that PEI/MMNs@LNA-542 alleviated muscle strength decline, restored fiber damage, and recovered mitochondrial injury in mice. In conclusion, PEI/MMNs nanoparticles effectively delivered LNA-542, targeting ATG5 to inhibit autophagy and alleviate mitochondrial damage, thereby improving ICU-AW.

BRD3308 suppresses macrophage oxidative stress and pyroptosis via upregulating acetylation of H3K27 in sepsis-induced acute lung injury

Background

Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) leads to severe hypoxemia and respiratory failure, contributing to poor prognosis in septic patients. Endotoxin dissemination triggers oxidative stress and the release of inflammatory cytokines in macrophages, initiating diffuse alveolar damage. The role of epigenetic histone modifications in organ injury is increasingly recognized. The present study aimed to investigate the use of a histone modification inhibitor to alleviate sepsis-induced ALI, revealing a new strategy for improving sepsis patient survival.

Methods

In vivo models of ALI were established through the intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide and cecal ligation and puncture surgery. Furthermore, the disease process was simulated in vitro by stimulating Tamm-Horsfall protein-1 (THP-1) cells with lipopolysaccharide. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, blood gas analysis and pulmonary function tests were utilized to assess the extent of lung tissue damage. Western blot analysis, real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence were used to measure the levels and distribution of the indicated indicators within cells and tissues. Reactive oxygen species and autophagic flux alterations were detected using specific probes.

Results

BRD3308, which is a inhibitor of histone deacetylase 3, improved lung tissue damage, inflammatory infiltration and edema in ALI by inhibiting Nod-like receptor protein3-mediated pyroptosis in macrophages. By upregulating autophagy, BRD3308 improved the disruption of redox balance in macrophages and reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Mechanistically, BRD3308 inhibited histone deacetylase 3 activity by binding to it and altering its conformation. Following histone deacetylase 3 inhibition, acetylation of H3K27 was significantly increased. Moreover, the increase in H3K27Ac led to the upregulation of autophagy-related gene 5, a key component of autophagosomes, thereby activating autophagy.

Conclusions

BRD3308 inhibits oxidative stress and pyroptosis in macrophages by modulating histone acetylation, thereby preventing sepsis-induced ALI. The present study provides a potential strategy and theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of sepsis-induced ALI.

The role of lysosomal membrane proteins in autophagy and related diseases

As a self-degrading and highly conserved survival mechanism, autophagy plays an important role in maintaining cell survival and recycling. The discovery of autophagy-related (ATG) genes has revolutionized our understanding of autophagy. Lysosomal membrane proteins (LMPs) are important executors of lysosomal function, and increasing evidence has demonstrated their role in the induction and regulation of autophagy. In addition, the functional dysregulation of the process mediated by LMPs at all stages of autophagy is closely related to neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Here, we review the role of LMPs in autophagy, focusing on their roles in vesicle nucleation, vesicle elongation and completion, the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes, and degradation, as well as their broad association with related diseases.

Dual perspective on autophagy in glioma: Detangling the dichotomous mechanisms of signaling pathways for therapeutic insights

Autophagy is a normal physiological process that aids the recycling of cellular nutrients, assisting the cells to cope with stressed conditions. However, autophagy's effect on cancer, including glioma, is uncertain and involves complicated molecular mechanisms. Several contradictory reports indicate that autophagy may promote or suppress glioma growth and progression. Autophagy inhibitors potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy or radiation therapy in glioma. Numerous compounds stimulate autophagy to cause glioma cell death. Autophagy is also involved in the therapeutic resistance of glioma. This review article aims to detangle the complicated molecular mechanism of autophagy to provide a better perception of the two-sided role of autophagy in glioma and its therapeutic implications. The protein and epigenetic modulators of the cytoprotective and cytotoxic role of autophagy are described in this article. Moreover, several signaling pathways are associated with autophagy and its effects on glioma. We have reviewed the molecular pathways and highlighted the signaling axis involved in cytoprotective and cytotoxic autophagy. Additionally, this article discusses the role of autophagy in therapeutic resistance, including glioma stem cell maintenance and tumor microenvironment regulation. It also summarizes several investigations on the anti-glioma effects of autophagy modulators to understand the associated mechanisms and provide insights regarding its therapeutic implications.

NLRP4 renders pancreatic cancer resistant to olaparib through promotion of the DNA damage response and ROS-induced autophagy

Olaparib has been approved as a therapeutic option for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients with BRCA1/2 mutations. However, a significant majority of pancreatic cancer patients have inherent resistance or develop tolerance to olaparib. It is crucial to comprehend the molecular mechanism underlying olaparib resistance to facilitate the development of targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer. In this study, we conducted an analysis of the DepMap database to investigate gene expression variations associated with olaparib sensitivity. Our findings revealed that NLRP4 upregulation contributes to increased resistance to olaparib in pancreatic cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing and Co-IP MS analysis revealed that NLRP4 is involved in the DNA damage response and autophagy pathway. Our findings confirmed that NLRP4 enhances the capacity for DNA repair and induces the production of significant levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and autophagy in response to treatment with olaparib. Specifically, NLRP4-generated mitochondrial ROS promote autophagy in pancreatic cancer cells upon exposure to olaparib. However, NLRP4-induced ROS do not affect DNA damage. The inhibition of mitochondrial ROS using MitoQ and autophagy using chloroquine (CQ) may render cells more susceptible to the effects of olaparib. Taken together, our findings highlight the significant roles played by NLRP4 in the processes of autophagy and DNA repair when pancreatic cancer cells are treated with olaparib, thereby suggesting the potential therapeutic utility of olaparib in pancreatic cancer patients with low NLRP4 expression.

ZMAT2 condensates regulate the alternative splicing of TRIM28 to reduce cellular ROS accumulation, thereby promoting the proliferation of HCC cells

Dysregulation of splicing factor expression plays a crucial role in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our research found that the expression level of splicing factor ZMAT2 was increased in HCC, promoting the proliferation of HCC cells. RNAseq data indicated that the absence of ZMAT2 induced skipping exon of mRNA, while RIPseq data further revealed the mRNA binding motifs of ZMAT2. A comprehensive analysis of RNAseq and RIPseq data indicateed that ZMAT2 played a crucial role in the maturation process of TRIM28 mRNA. Knocking down of ZMAT2 led to the deletion of 25 bases in exon 11 of TRIM28, ultimately resulting in nonsense-mediated decay (NMD). Our data revealed that ZMAT2 could regulate TRIM28 to reduce the accumulation of ROS in HCC cells, thereby promoting their proliferation. Our research also discovered that ZMAT2 was capable of undergoing phase separation, resulting in the formation of liquid droplet condensates within HCC cells. Additionally, it was found that ZMAT2 was able to form protein-nucleic acid condensates with TRIM28 mRNA. In summary, this study is the first to reveal that ZMAT2 and TRIM28 mRNA form protein-nucleic acid condensates, thereby regulating the splicing of TRIM28 mRNA. The increased expression of ZMAT2 in HCC leads to upregulated TRIM28 expression and reduced ROS accumulation, ultimately accelerating the proliferation of HCC cells.

Targeting TRPs in autophagy regulation and human diseases

Transient receptor potential channels (TRPs) are widely recognized as a group of ion channels involved in various sensory perceptions, such as temperature, taste, pressure, and vision. While macroautophagy (hereafter referred to as autophagy) is primarily regulated by core machinery, the ion exchange mediated by TRPs between intracellular and extracellular compartments, as well as within organelles and the cytoplasm, plays a crucial role in autophagy regulation as an important signaling transduction mechanism. Moreover, certain TRPs can directly interact with autophagy regulatory proteins to participate in autophagy regulation. In this article, we provide an in-depth review of the current understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of autophagy, with a specific focus on TRPs. Furthermore, we highlight the potential prospects for drug development targeting TRPs in autophagy for the treatment of human diseases.

MCOLN1/TRPML1 in the lysosome: a promising target for autophagy modulation in diverse diseases

MCOLN1/TRPML1 is a nonselective cationic channel specifically localized to the late endosome and lysosome. With its property of mediating the release of several divalent cations such as Ca2+, Zn2+ and Fe2+ from the lysosome to the cytosol, MCOLN1 plays a pivotal role in regulating a variety of cellular events including endocytosis, exocytosis, lysosomal biogenesis, lysosome reformation, and especially in Macroautophagy/autophagy. Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic process that maintains cytoplasmic integrity by removing superfluous proteins and damaged organelles. Acting as the terminal compartments, lysosomes are crucial for the completion of the autophagy process. This review delves into the emerging role of MCOLN1 in controlling the autophagic process by regulating lysosomal ionic homeostasis, thereby governing the fundamental functions of lysosomes. Furthermore, this review summarizes the physiological relevance as well as molecular mechanisms through which MCOLN1 orchestrates autophagy, consequently influencing mitochondria turnover, cell apoptosis and migration. In addition, we have illustrated the implications of MCOLN1-regulated autophagy in the pathological process of cancer and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. In summary, given the involvement of MCOLN1-mediated autophagy in the pathogenesis of cancer and myocardial I/R injury, targeting MCOLN1 May provide clues for developing new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these diseases. Exploring the regulation of MCOLN1-mediated autophagy in diverse diseases contexts will surely broaden our understanding of this pathway and offer its potential as a promising drug target.Abbreviation: CCCP:carbonyl cyanide3-chlorophenylhydrazone; CQ:chloroquine; HCQ: hydroxychloroquine;I/R: ischemia-reperfusion; MAP1LC3/LC3:microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MCOLN1/TRPML1:mucolipin TRP cation channel 1; MLIV: mucolipidosis type IV; MTORC1:MTOR complex 1; ROS: reactive oxygenspecies; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1.

Transient stimulation of TRPMLs enhance the functionality of hDPCs and facilitate hair growth in mice

Autophagy is essential for eliminating aging and organelle damage that maintaining cellular homeostasis. However, the dysfunction of autophagy has been proven in hair loss such as AGA. Despite the crucial role of TRPML channels in regulating autophagy, their specific function in hair growth remains unclarified. To investigate the biological functions and associated molecular mechanisms of TRPMLs in hair growth, Animal experiments were conducted to confirm the function of TRLMLs activation in promoting hair growth. Subsequently, we analyzed molecular mechanisms in human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs) activated by TRPMLs through transcriptome sequencing analysis. MLSA1(a TRPML agonist) promoted hair regeneration and accelerated hair cycle transition in mice. The activation of TRPMLs upregulated calcium signaling inducing hDPCs to secrete hair growth promoting factors and decrease hair growth inhibiting factors. In addition, activation of TRPMLs triggered autophagy and reduced the generation of ROS, thereby delaying the senescence of hDPCs. All these findings suggested that TRPMLs activation could promote hair growth by regulating hDPCs secretion of hair growth-related factors. Moreover, it may play a prominent role in preventing hDPCs from ROS damage induced by H2O2 or DHT. Targeting TRPMLs may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for treating hair loss.

TRPML1 triggers ferroptosis defense and is a potential therapeutic target in AKT-hyperactivated cancer

Targeting ferroptosis for cancer therapy has slowed because of an incomplete understanding of ferroptosis mechanisms under specific pathological contexts such as tumorigenesis and cancer treatment. Here, we identify TRPML1-mediated lysosomal exocytosis as a potential anti-ferroptotic process through genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 activation and kinase inhibitor library screening. AKT directly phosphorylated TRPML1 at Ser343 and inhibited K552 ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of TRPML1, thereby promoting TRPML1 binding to ARL8B to trigger lysosomal exocytosis. This boosted ferroptosis defense of AKT-hyperactivated cancer cells by reducing intracellular ferrous iron and enhancing membrane repair. Correlation analysis and functional analysis revealed that TRPML1-mediated ferroptosis resistance is a previously unrecognized feature of AKT-hyperactivated cancers and is necessary for AKT-driven tumorigenesis and cancer therapeutic resistance. TRPML1 inactivation or blockade of the interaction between TRPML1 and ARL8B inhibited AKT-driven tumorigenesis and cancer therapeutic resistance in vitro and in vivo by promoting ferroptosis. A synthetic peptide targeting TRPML1 inhibited AKT-driven tumorigenesis and enhanced the sensitivity of AKT-hyperactivated tumors to ferroptosis inducers, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy by boosting ferroptosis in vivo. Together, our findings identified TRPML1 as a therapeutic target in AKT-hyperactivated cancer.

Differential Impact of Valproic Acid on SLC5A8, SLC12A2, SLC12A5, CDH1, and CDH2 Expression in Adult Glioblastoma Cells

Valproic acid (VPA) has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and epigenetic effects. The study aimed to determine the expression of carcinogenesis-related SLC5A8, SLC12A2, SLC12A5, CDH1, and CDH2 in adult glioblastoma U87 MG and T98G cells and the effects of 0.5 mM, 0.75 mM, and 1.5 mM doses of VPA. RNA gene expression was determined by RT-PCR. GAPDH was used as a control. U87 and T98G control cells do not express SLC5A8 or CDH1. SLC12A5 was expressed in U87 control but not in T98G control cells. The SLC12A2 expression in the U87 control was significantly lower than in the T98G control. T98G control cells showed significantly higher CDH2 expression than U87 control cells. VPA treatment did not affect SLC12A2 expression in U87 cells, whereas treatment dose-dependently increased SLC12A2 expression in T98G cells. Treatment with 1.5 mM VPA induced SLC5A8 expression in U87 cells, while treatment of T98G cells with VPA did not affect SLC5A8 expression. Treatment of U87 cells with VPA significantly increased SLC12A5 expression. VPA increases CDH1 expression depending on the VPA dose. CDH2 expression was significantly increased only in the U87 1.5 mM VPA group. Tested VPA doses significantly increased CDH2 expression in T98G cells. When approaching treatment tactics, assessing the cell's sensitivity to the agent is essential.

Iodine-125 seed inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis of cholangiocarcinoma cells by inducing the ROS/p53 axis

With advances in radioactive particle implantation in clinical practice, Iodine-125 (125I) seed brachytherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), showing good prognosis; however, the underlying molecular mechanism of the therapeutic effect of 125I seed is unclear. To study the effects of 125I seed on the proliferation and apoptosis of CCA cells. CCA cell lines, RBE and HCCC-9810, were treated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger acetylcysteine (NAC) or the p53 functional inhibitor, pifithrin-α hydrobromide (PFTα). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, 5-bromo-2-deoxy-uridine (BrdU) staining, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and flow cytometry assay were performed to test the radiation-sensitivity of 125I seed toward CCA cells at different radiation doses (0.4 mCi and 0.8 mCi). 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) assay, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blot analysis were performed to assess the effect of 125I seed on the ROS/p53 axis. A dose-dependent inhibitory effect of 125I seeds on the proliferation of CCA cells was observed. The 125I seed promoted apoptosis of CCA cells and induced the activation of the ROS/p53 pathway in a dose-dependent manner. NAC or PFTα treatment effectively reversed the stimulatory effect of 125I seed on the proliferation of CCA cells. NAC or PFTα suppressed apoptosis and p53 protein expression induced by the 125I seed. 125I seed can inhibit cell growth mainly through the apoptotic pathway. The mechanism may involve the activation of p53 and its downstream apoptotic pathway by up-regulating the level of ROS in cells.

CYP2E1 deficit mediates cholic acid-induced malignant growth in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Increased level of serum cholic acid (CA) is often accompanied with decreased CYP2E1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the roles of CA and CYP2E1 in hepatocarcinogenesis have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the roles and the underlying mechanisms of CYP2E1 and CA in HCC cell growth.

METHODS

The proteomic analysis of liver tumors from DEN-induced male SD rats with CA administration was used to reveal the changes of protein expression in the CA treated group. The growth of CA-treated HCC cells was examined by colony formation assays. Autophagic flux was assessed with immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. Western blot analysis was used to examine the expression of CYP2E1, mTOR, AKT, p62, and LC3II/I. A xenograft tumor model in nude mice was used to examine the role of CYP2E1 in CA-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis. The samples from HCC patients were used to evaluate the clinical value of CYP2E1 expression.

RESULTS

CA treatment significantly increased the growth of HCC cells and promoted xenograft tumors accompanied by a decrease of CYP2E1 expression. Further studies revealed that both in vitro and in vivo, upregulated CYP2E1 expression inhibited the growth of HCC cells, blocked autophagic flux, decreased AKT phosphorylation, and increased mTOR phosphorylation. CYP2E1 was involved in CA-activated autophagy through the AKT/mTOR signaling. Finally, decreased CYP2E1 expression was observed in the tumor tissues of HCC patients and its expression level in tumors was negatively correlated with the serum level of total bile acids (TBA) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT).

CONCLUSIONS

CYP2E1 downregulation contributes to CA-induced HCC development presumably through autophagy regulation. Thus, CYP2E1 may serve as a potential target for HCC drug development.

Transient receptor potential mucolipin 1 circumvents oxidative stress in primary human melanocytes

BACKGROUND

Transient Receptor Potential Mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) serves as a pivotal reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensor in cells, which is implicated in the regulation of autophagy. However, its function in melanocyte autophagy under oxidative stress remains elusive.

METHODS

The expression and ion channel function of TRPML1 were investigated using immunofluorescence and calcium imaging in primary human melanocytes (MCs). After activating TRPML1 with MLSA1 (TRPML1 agonist), autophagy-related molecules were investigated via western blot. ROS level, apoptosis- and autophagy-related molecules were investigated after pretreatment with MLSA1. After interference with TRPML1 expression, mitochondrial structures were visualized by electron microscopy with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2）treatment.

RESULTS

TRPML1 was expressed and functionally active in primary human MCs, and its activation promotes elevated expression of LC3-II and reduced apoptosis and ROS levels under oxidative stress. TRPML1 downregulation caused mitochondrial swelling and disruption of cristae structures under oxidative stress in primary human MCs.

CONCLUSIONS

TRPML1 might mediate lysosomal autophagy in primary human MCs under oxidative stress, participating in mechanisms that maintain the oxidative and antioxidant systems in balance.

Salidroside induces mitochondrial dysfunction and ferroptosis to inhibit melanoma progression through reactive oxygen species production

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) induces necroptotic and ferroptosis in melanoma cells. Salidroside (SAL) regulates ROS in normal cells and inhibits melanoma cell proliferation. This study used human malignant melanoma cells treated with SAL either alone or in combination with ROS scavenger (NAC) or ferroptosis inducer (Erastin). Through cell viability, wound healing assays, and a Seahorse analyze found that SAL inhibited cell proliferation, migration, extracellular acidification rate, and oxygen consumption rate. Metabolic flux analysis, complexes I, II, III, and IV activity of the mitochondrial respiratory chain assays, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, mitochondrial ROS, and transmission electron microscope revealed that SAL induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ultrastructural damage. Assessment of malondialdehyde, lipid ROS, iron content measurement, and Western blot analysis showed that SAL activated lipid peroxidation and promoted ferroptosis in A-375 cells. These effects were abolished after NAC treatment. Additionally, SAL and Erastin both inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell death; SAL increased the Erastin sensitivity of cells while NAC antagonized it. In xenograft mice, SAL inhibited melanoma growth and promoted ROS-dependent ferroptosis. SAL induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ferroptosis to block melanoma progression through ROS production, which offers a scientific foundation for conducting SAL pharmacological research in the management of melanoma.

DNA damage-regulated autophagy modulator 1 prevents glioblastoma cells proliferation by regulating lysosomal function and autophagic flux stability

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and life-threatening brain tumor, characterized by its highly malignant and recurrent nature. DNA damage-regulated autophagy modulator 1 (DRAM-1) is a p53 target gene encoding a lysosomal protein that induces macro-autophagy and damage-induced programmed cell death in tumor growth. However, the precise mechanisms underlying how DRAM-1 affects tumor cell proliferation through regulation of lysosomal function and autophagic flux stability remain incompletely understood. We found that DRAM-1 expressions were evidently down-regulated in high-grade glioma and recurrent GBM tissues. The upregulation of DRAM-1 could increase mortality of primary cultured GBM cells. TEM analysis revealed an augmented accumulation of aberrant lysosomes in DRAM-1-overexpressing GBM cells. The assay for lysosomal pH and stability also demonstrated decreasing lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) and impaired lysosomal acidity. Further research revealed the detrimental impact of lysosomal dysfunction, which impaired the autophagic flux stability and ultimately led to GBM cell death. Moreover, downregulation of mTOR phosphorylation was observed in GBM cells following upregulation of DRAM-1. In vivo and in vitro experiments additionally illustrated that the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin increased GBM cell mortality and exhibited an enhanced antitumor effect.

Crosstalk between metabolism and cell death in tumorigenesis

It is generally recognized that tumor cells proliferate more rapidly than normal cells. Due to such an abnormally rapid proliferation rate, cancer cells constantly encounter the limits of insufficient oxygen and nutrient supplies. To satisfy their growth needs and resist adverse environmental events, tumor cells modify the metabolic pathways to produce both extra energies and substances required for rapid growth. Realizing the metabolic characters special for tumor cells will be helpful for eliminating them during therapy. Cell death is a hot topic of long-term study and targeting cell death is one of the most effective ways to repress tumor growth. Many studies have successfully demonstrated that metabolism is inextricably linked to cell death of cancer cells. Here we summarize the recently identified metabolic characters that specifically impact on different types of cell deaths and discuss their roles in tumorigenesis.

PTPLAD1 Regulates PHB-Raf Interaction to Orchestrate Epithelial-Mesenchymal and Mitofusion-Fission Transitions in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. The poor prognosis of this malignancy is attributed mainly to the persistent activation of cancer signaling for metastasis. Here, we showed that protein tyrosine phosphatase-like A domain containing 1 (PTPLAD1) is down-regulated in highly metastatic CRC cells and negatively associated with poor survival of CRC patients. Systematic analysis reveals that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mitochondrial fusion-to-fission (MFT) transition are two critical features for CRC patients with low expression of PTPLAD1. PTPLAD1 overexpression suppresses the metastasis of CRC in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the Raf/ERK signaling-mediated EMT and mitofission. Mechanically, PTPLAD1 binds with PHB via its middle fragment (141-178 amino acids) and induces dephosphorylation of PHB-Y259 to disrupt the interaction of PHB-Raf, resulting in the inactivation of Raf/ERK signaling. Our results unveil a novel mechanism in which Raf/ERK signaling activated in metastatic CRC induces EMT and mitochondrial fission simultaneously, which can be suppressed by PTPLAD1. This finding may provide a new paradigm for developing more effective treatment strategies for CRC.

Natural products reverse cancer multidrug resistance

Cancer stands as a prominent global cause of death. One of the key reasons why clinical tumor chemotherapy fails is multidrug resistance (MDR). In recent decades, accumulated studies have shown how Natural Product-Derived Compounds can reverse tumor MDR. Discovering novel potential modulators to reduce tumor MDR by Natural Product-Derived Compounds has become a popular research area across the globe. Numerous studies mainly focus on natural products including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, polyphenols and coumarins for their MDR modulatory activity. Natural products reverse MDR by regulating signaling pathways or the relevant expressed protein or gene. Here we perform a deep review of the previous achievements, recent advances in the development of natural products as a treatment for MDR. This review aims to provide some insights for the study of multidrug resistance of natural products.

Selenium promotes immunogenic radiotherapy against cervical cancer metastasis through evoking P53 activation

Radiotherapy is still the recommended treatment for cervical cancer. However, radioresistance and radiation-induced side effects remain one of the biggest clinical problems. Selenium (Se) has been confirmed to exhibit radiation-enhancing effects for cancer treatment. However, Se species dominate the biological activities and which form of Se possesses better radiosensitizing properties and radiation safety remains elusive. Here, different Se species (the valence state of Se ranged from - 2, 0, +4 to + 6) synergy screen was carried out to identify the potential radiosensitizing effects and radiation safety of Se against cervical cancer. We found that the therapeutic effects varied with the changes in the Se valence state. Sodium selenite (+4) displayed strong cancer-killing effects but also possessed severe cytotoxicity. Sodium selenate (+6) neither enhanced the killing effects of X-ray nor possessed anticancer activity by its alone treatment. Although nano-selenium (0), especially Let-SeNPs, has better radiosensitizing activity, the - 2 organic Se, such as selenadiazole derivative SeD (-2) exhibited more potent anticancer effects and possessed a higher safe index. Overall, the selected Se drugs were able to synergize with X-ray to inhibit cell growth, clone formation, and cell migration by triggering G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis, and SeD (-2) was found to exhibit more potent enhancing capacity. Further mechanism studies showed that SeD mediated p53 pathway activation by inducing DNA damage through promoting ROS production. Additionally, SeD combined with X-ray therapy can induce an anti-tumor immune response in vivo. More importantly, SeD combined with X-ray significantly inhibited the liver metastasis of tumor cells and alleviated the side effects caused by radiation therapy in tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, this study demonstrates the radiosensitization and radiation safety effects of different Se species, which may shed light on the application of such Se-containing drugs serving as side effects-reducing agents for cervical cancer radiation treatment.

Advances in the study of autophagy in breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumor among women, with a high incidence and mortality rate all year round, which seriously affects women's health. Autophagy, a well-conserved cellular process inherent in eukaryotic organisms, plays a pivotal role in degrading damaged proteins and organelles, recycling their breakdown products to aid cells in navigating stress and gradually restoring homeostatic equilibrium. Recent studies have unveiled the intricate connection between autophagy and breast cancer. Autophagy is a double-edged sword in breast cancer, demonstrating a dual role: restraining its onset and progression on one hand, while promoting its metastasis and advancement on the other. It is also because of this interrelationship between the two that regulation of autophagy in the treatment of breast cancer is now an important strategy in clinical treatment. In this article, we systematically survey the recent research findings, elucidating the multifaceted role of autophagy in breast cancer and its underlying mechanisms, with the aim of contributing new references to the clinical management of breast cancer.

Contribution of Autophagy to Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition Induction during Cancer Progression

Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a dedifferentiation process implicated in many physio-pathological conditions including tumor transformation. EMT is regulated by several extracellular mediators and under certain conditions it can be reversible. Autophagy is a conserved catabolic process in which intracellular components such as protein/DNA aggregates and abnormal organelles are degraded in specific lysosomes. In cancer, autophagy plays a controversial role, acting in different conditions as both a tumor suppressor and a tumor-promoting mechanism. Experimental evidence shows that deep interrelations exist between EMT and autophagy-related pathways. Although this interplay has already been analyzed in previous studies, understanding mechanisms and the translational implications of autophagy/EMT need further study. The role of autophagy in EMT is not limited to morphological changes, but activation of autophagy could be important to DNA repair/damage system, cell adhesion molecules, and cell proliferation and differentiation processes. Based on this, both autophagy and EMT and related pathways are now considered as targets for cancer therapy. In this review article, the contribution of autophagy to EMT and progression of cancer is discussed. This article also describes the multiple connections between EMT and autophagy and their implication in cancer treatment.

Advances in the pathological mechanisms and clinical treatments of chronic visceral pain

Chronic visceral pain stems from internal organs and is frequently associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Since the underlying mechanisms of visceral pain remain largely unclear, clinical management is often limited and ineffective. Comprehensive research into the pathogenesis of visceral pain, along with the development of personalized therapeutic strategies, is crucial for advancing treatment options. Studies suggest that imbalances in purinergic receptors and neural circuit function are closely linked to the onset of visceral pain. In this review, we will explore the etiology and pathological mechanisms underlying visceral pain, with a focus on ion channels, epigenetic factors, and neural circuits, using functional gastrointestinal disorders as case studies. Finally, we will summarize and evaluate emerging treatments and potential initiatives aimed at managing visceral pain.

Jianpi Jiedu Recipe Inhibits Proliferation through Reactive Oxygen Species-Induced Incomplete Autophagy and Reduces PD-L1 Expression in Colon Cancer

BACKGROUND

Jianpi Jiedu Recipe has been used to treat digestive tract tumors in China since ancient times, and its reliability has been proven by clinical research. Currently, the specific biological mechanism of JPJDR in treating tumors is unclear.

METHODOLOGY

CCK-8 assay was used to detect cell viability. Clone formation assay and EdU assay were used to detect cell proliferation potential. DCFH-DA probe and JC-1 probe were used to detect total intracellular reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to detect protein expression level and subcellular localization of cells. The RFP-GFP-LC3B reporter system was used to observe the type of autophagy in cells. The xenograft tumor model was used to study the therapeutic effect of JPJDR in vivo.

RESULTS

JPJDR has an excellent inhibitory effect on various colorectal cancer cells and effectively reduces the proliferation ability of HT29 cells. After treatment with JPJDR, the amount of reactive oxygen species in HT29 cells increased significantly, and the mitochondrial membrane potential decreased. JPJDR induced the accumulation of autophagosomes in HT29 cells and was shown to be incomplete autophagy. At the same time, JPJDR reduced the expression of PD-L1. Meanwhile, JPJDR can exert an excellent therapeutic effect in xenograft tumor mice.

CONCLUSION

JPJDR is a low-toxicity and effective anti-tumor agent that can effectively treat colon cancer in vitro and in vivo. Its mechanism may be inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and incomplete autophagy injury to inhibit the proliferation of colon cancer cells.

Autophagy machinery in glioblastoma: The prospect of cell death crosstalk and drug resistance with bioinformatics analysis

Brain tumors are common malignancies with high mortality and morbidity in which glioblastoma (GB) is a grade IV astrocytoma with heterogeneous nature. The conventional therapeutics for the GB mainly include surgery and chemotherapy, however their efficacy has been compromised due to the aggressiveness of tumor cells. The dysregulation of cell death mechanisms, especially autophagy has been reported as a factor causing difficulties in cancer therapy. As a mechanism contributing to cell homeostasis, the autophagy process is hijacked by tumor cells for the purpose of aggravating cancer progression and drug resistance. The autophagy function is context-dependent and its role can be lethal or protective in cancer. The aim of the current paper is to highlight the role of autophagy in the regulation of GB progression. The cytotoxic function of autophagy can promote apoptosis and ferroptosis in GB cells and vice versa. Autophagy dysregulation can cause drug resistance and radioresistance in GB. Moreover, stemness can be regulated by autophagy and overall growth as well as metastasis are affected by autophagy. The various interventions including administration of synthetic/natural products and nanoplatforms can target autophagy. Therefore, autophagy can act as a promising target in GB therapy.

Autophagy receptor OsNBR1 modulates salt stress tolerance in rice

KEY MESSAGE

Autophagy receptor OsNBR1 modulates salt stress tolerance by affecting ROS accumulation in rice. The NBR1 (next to BRCA1 gene 1), as important selective receptors, whose functions have been reported in animals and plants. Although the function of NBR1 responses to abiotic stress has mostly been investigated in Arabidopsis thaliana, the role of NBR1 under salt stress conditions remains unclear in rice (Oryza sativa). In this study, by screening the previously generated activation-tagged line, we identified a mutant, activation tagging 10 (AC10), which exhibited salt stress-sensitive phenotypes. TAIL-PCR (thermal asymmetric interlaced PCR) showed that the AC10 line carried a loss-of-function mutation in the OsNBR1 gene. OsNBR1 was found to be a positive regulator of salt stress tolerance and was localized in aggregates. A loss-of-function mutation in OsNBR1 increased salt stress sensitivity, whereas overexpression of OsNBR1 enhanced salt stress resistance. The osnbr1 mutants showed higher ROS (reactive oxygen species) production, whereas the OsNBR1 overexpression (OsNBR1OE) lines showed lower ROS production, than Kitaake plants under normal and salt stress conditions. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis revealed that expression of OsRBOH9 (respiratory burst oxidase homologue) was increased in osnbr1 mutants, resulting in increased ROS accumulation in osnbr1 mutants. Together our results established that OsNBR1 responds to salt stress by influencing accumulation of ROS rather than by regulating transport of Na+ and K+ in rice.

Transient receptor potential-related risk model predicts prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients

BACKGROUND

Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) protein family shape oncogenic development, but the specific relevance of TRP-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has yet to be defined.

AIM

To investigate the role of TRP genes in HCC, their association with HCC development and treatment was examined.

METHODS

HCC patient gene expression and clinical data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database, and univariate and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression models were employed to explore the TRP-related risk spectrum. Based on these analyses, clinically relevant TRP family genes were selected, and the association between the key TRP canonical type 1 (TRPC1) gene and HCC patient prognosis was evaluated.

RESULTS

In total, 28 TRP family genes were screened for clinical relevance, with multivariate analyses ultimately revealing three of these genes (TRPC1, TRP cation channel subfamily M member 2, and TRP cation channel subfamily M member 6) to be significantly associated with HCC patient prognosis (P < 0.05). These genes were utilized to establish a TRP-related risk model. Patients were separated into low- and high-risk groups based on the expression of these genes, and high-risk patients exhibited a significantly poorer prognosis (P = 0.001). Functional analyses highlighted pronounced differences in the immune status of patients in these two groups and associated enriched immune pathways. TRPC1 was identified as a candidate gene in this family worthy of further study, with HCC patients expressing higher TRPC1 levels exhibiting poorer survival outcomes. Consistently, quantitative, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analyses revealed increased TRPC1 expression in HCC.

CONCLUSION

These three TRP genes help determine HCC patient prognosis, providing insight into tumor immune status and immunological composition. These findings will help design combination therapies including immunotherapeutic and anti-TRP agents.

TRPML1 as a potential therapeutic target for triple-negative breast cancer: a review

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most refractory subtype of breast cancer, and effective treatments are urgently needed owing to its poor prognosis. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, alone or in combination, are the leading choices for TNBC therapy. Although promising approaches and procedures have emerged, several challenges, such as off-target effects, drug resistance, and severe side effects, remain to be addressed. Recently, transient receptor potential channel mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) has attracted the attention of researchers because its expression has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer. TRPML1 regulates biological events and signaling pathways, including autophagic flux, exocytosis, ionic homeostasis, and lysosomal biogenesis, all contributing to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. TRPML1 also functions as a building block for cancer cell growth, mitogenic signaling, priming tissues for metastasis, and activation of transcriptional programs, processes involved in several malignant tumors. This review provides an overview of breast cancer epidemiology and diagnostic techniques and then discusses the existing therapeutics. Additionally, we elaborate on the development of, and associated challenges to, TNBC diagnostics and treatment and the feasibility of TRPML1 as a therapeutic target for TNBC.

Autophagy/ferroptosis in colorectal cancer: Carcinogenic view and nanoparticle-mediated cell death regulation

The cell death mechanisms have a long history of being evaluated in diseases and pathological events. The ability of triggering cell death is considered to be a promising strategy in cancer therapy, but some mechanisms have dual functions in cancer, requiring more elucidation of underlying factors. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a disease and malignant condition of colon and rectal that causes high mortality and morbidity. The autophagy targeting in CRC is therapeutic importance and this cell death mechanism can interact with apoptosis in inhibiting or increasing apoptosis. Autophagy has interaction with ferroptosis as another cell death pathway in CRC and can accelerate ferroptosis in suppressing growth and invasion. The dysregulation of autophagy affects the drug resistance in CRC and pro-survival autophagy can induce drug resistance. Therefore, inhibition of protective autophagy enhances chemosensitivity in CRC cells. Moreover, autophagy displays interaction with metastasis and EMT as a potent regulator of invasion in CRC cells. The same is true for ferroptosis, but the difference is that function of ferroptosis is determined and it can reduce viability. The lack of ferroptosis can cause development of chemoresistance in CRC cells and this cell death mechanism is regulated by various pathways and mechanisms that autophagy is among them. Therefore, current review paper provides a state-of-art analysis of autophagy, ferroptosis and their crosstalk in CRC. The nanoparticle-mediated regulation of cell death mechanisms in CRC causes changes in progression. The stimulation of ferroptosis and control of autophagy (induction or inhibition) by nanoparticles can impair CRC progression. The engineering part of nanoparticle synthesis to control autophagy and ferroptosis in CRC still requires more attention.

Transient receptor potential channels as predictive marker and potential indicator of chemoresistance in colon cancer

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are strongly associated with colon cancer development and progression. This study leveraged a multivariate Cox regression model on publicly available datasets to construct a TRP channels-associated gene signature, with further validation of signature in real world samples from our hospital treated patient samples. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were employed to evaluate this gene signature's predictive accuracy and robustness in both training and testing cohorts, respectively. Additionally, the study utilized the CIBERSORT algorithm and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis to explore the signature's immune infiltration landscape and underlying functional implications. The support vector machine algorithm was applied to evaluate the signature's potential in predicting chemotherapy outcomes. The findings unveiled a novel three TRP channels-related gene signature (MCOLN1, TRPM5, and TRPV4) in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). The ROC and K-M survival curves in the training dataset (AUC = 0.761; p = 1.58e-05) and testing dataset (AUC = 0.699; p = 0.004) showed the signature's robust predictive capability for the overall survival of COAD patients. Analysis of the immune infiltration landscape associated with the signature revealed higher immune infiltration, especially an increased presence of M2 macrophages, in high-risk group patients compared to their low-risk counterparts. High-risk score patients also exhibited potential responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, evident through increased CD86 and PD-1 expression profiles. Moreover, the TRPM5 gene within the signature was highly expressed in the chemoresistance group (p = 0.00095) and associated with poor prognosis (p = 0.036) in COAD patients, highlighting its role as a hub gene of chemoresistance. Ultimately, this signature emerged as an independent prognosis factor for COAD patients (p = 6.48e-06) and expression of model gene are validated by public data and real-world patients. Overall, this bioinformatics study provides valuable insights into the prognostic implications and potential chemotherapy resistance mechanisms associated with TRPs-related genes in colon cancer.