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Mao X, Wang L, Chen Z, Huang H, Chen J, Su J, Li Z, Shen G, Ren Y, Li Z, Wang W, Ou J, Guo W, Hu Y. SCD1 promotes the stemness of gastric cancer stem cells by inhibiting ferroptosis through the SQLE/cholesterol/mTOR signalling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133698. [PMID: 38972654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133698] [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: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a substantial role in cancer onset and recurrence. Anomalous iron and lipid metabolism have been documented in CSCs, suggesting that ferroptosis, a recently discovered form of regulated cell death characterised by lipid peroxidation, could potentially exert a significant influence on CSCs. However, the precise role of ferroptosis in gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) remains unknown. To address this gap, we screened ferroptosis-related genes in GCSCs using The Cancer Genome Atlas and corroborated our findings through quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. These results indicate that stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) is a key player in the regulation of ferroptosis in GCSCs. This study provides evidence that SCD1 positively regulates the transcription of squalene epoxidase (SQLE) by eliminating transcriptional inhibition of P53. This mechanism increases the cholesterol content and the elevated cholesterol regulated by SCD1 inhibits ferroptosis via the mTOR signalling pathway. Furthermore, our in vivo studies showed that SCD1 knockdown or regulation of cholesterol intake affects the stemness of GCSCs and their sensitivity to ferroptosis inducers. Thus, targeting the SCD1/squalene epoxidase/cholesterol signalling axis in conjunction with ferroptosis inducers may represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of gastric cancer based on GCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Mao
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Zhian Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Huilin Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Jialin Chen
- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510515, PR China
| | - Jin Su
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China; Department of General Surgery, Zhuzhou Hospital affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou 412000, PR China
| | - Zhenhao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Guodong Shen
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Yingxin Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Zhenyuan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Weisheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Jinzhou Ou
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Weihong Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China.
| | - Yanfeng Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Gastrointestinal Tumors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China.
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2
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Liu Q, Zhang Y, Li H, Gao H, Zhou Y, Luo D, Shan Z, Yang Y, Weng J, Li Q, Yang W, Li X. Squalene epoxidase promotes the chemoresistance of colorectal cancer via (S)-2,3-epoxysqualene-activated NF-κB. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:278. [PMID: 38762737 PMCID: PMC11102232 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01649-z] [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: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While de novo cholesterol biosynthesis plays a crucial role in chemotherapy resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC), the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. METHODS We conducted cell proliferation assays on CRC cells with or without depletion of squalene epoxidase (SQLE), with or without 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment. Additionally, a xenograft mouse model was utilized to explore the impact of SQLE on the chemosensitivity of CRC to 5-FU. RNA-sequencing analysis and immunoblotting analysis were performed to clarify the mechanism. We further explore the effect of SQLE depletion on the ubiquitin of NF-κB inhibitor alpha (IκBα) and (S)-2,3-epoxysqualene on the binding of IκBα to beta-transducin repeat containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (BTRC) by using immunoprecipitation assay. In addition, a cohort of 272 CRC patients were selected for our clinical analyses. RESULTS Mechanistically, (S)-2,3-epoxysqualene promotes IκBα degradation and subsequent NF-κB activation by enhancing the interaction between BTRC and IκBα. Activated NF-κB upregulates the expression of baculoviral IAP repeat containing 3 (BIRC3), sustains tumor cell survival after 5-FU treatment and promotes 5-FU resistance of CRC in vivo. Notably, the treatment of terbinafine, an inhibitor of SQLE commonly used as antifungal drug in clinic, enhances the sensitivity of CRC to 5-FU in vivo. Additionally, the expression of SQLE is associated with the prognosis of human CRC patients with 5-FU-based chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Thus, our finding not only demonstrates a new role of SQLE in chemoresistance of CRC, but also reveals a novel mechanism of (S)-2,3-epoxysqualene-dependent NF-κB activation, implicating the combined potential of terbinafine for 5-FU-based CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yajuan Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Huimin Li
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dakui Luo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zezhi Shan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yufei Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junyong Weng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingguo Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiwei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xinxiang Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Zhang L, Cao Z, Hong Y, He H, Chen L, Yu Z, Gao Y. Squalene Epoxidase: Its Regulations and Links with Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3874. [PMID: 38612682 PMCID: PMC11011400 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073874] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Squalene epoxidase (SQLE) is a key enzyme in the mevalonate-cholesterol pathway that plays a critical role in cellular physiological processes. It converts squalene to 2,3-epoxysqualene and catalyzes the first oxygenation step in the pathway. Recently, intensive efforts have been made to extend the current knowledge of SQLE in cancers through functional and mechanistic studies. However, the underlying mechanisms and the role of SQLE in cancers have not been fully elucidated yet. In this review, we retrospected current knowledge of SQLE as a rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate-cholesterol pathway, while shedding light on its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic marker, and revealed its therapeutic values in cancers. We showed that SQLE is regulated at different levels and is involved in the crosstalk with iron-dependent cell death. Particularly, we systemically reviewed the research findings on the role of SQLE in different cancers. Finally, we discussed the therapeutic implications of SQLE inhibitors and summarized their potential clinical values. Overall, this review discussed the multifaceted mechanisms that involve SQLE to present a vivid panorama of SQLE in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yuheng Hong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Haihua He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Leifeng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Zhentao Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
| | - Yibo Gao
- Central Laboratory & Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Precision Medicine for Cancers, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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Zhu C, Fang X, Liu X, Jiang C, Ren W, Huang W, Jiang Y, Wang D. Squalene monooxygenase facilitates bladder cancer development in part by regulating PCNA. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119681. [PMID: 38280406 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Although the treatment and survival rate of BC are being improved, the risk factors and the underlying mechanisms causing BC are incompletely understood. Squalene monooxygenase (SQLE) has been associated with the occurrence and development of multiple cancers but whether it contributes to BC development is unclear. In this study, we performed bioinformatics analysis on paired BC and adjacent non-cancerous tissues and found that SQLE expression is significantly upregulated in BC samples. Knockdown of SQLE impairs viability, induces apoptosis, and inhibits the migration and invasion of BC cells. RNA-seq data reveals that SQLE deficiency leads to dysregulated expression of genes regulating proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. Mass spectrometry-directed interactome screening identifies proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) as an SQLE-interacting protein and overexpression of PCNA partially rescues the impaired viability, migration, and invasion of BC cells caused by SQLE knockdown. In addition, we performed xenograft assays and confirmed that SQLE deficiency inhibits BC growth in vivo. In conclusion, these data suggest that SQLE promotes BC development and SQLE inhibition may be therapeutically useful in BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyan Zhu
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Xiao Fang
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China; Department of Urology, MengChao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Xiangshen Liu
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Chengxi Jiang
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Wenjun Ren
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Wenmao Huang
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Yanyan Jiang
- Department of Ultrasonography, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China.
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Urology, Fuzong clinical medical college of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350025, China.
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5
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Li W, Jiang X, Zhao L. Hsa_circ_0028007 regulates the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma through the miR-1179/SQLE axis. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230632. [PMID: 37554147 PMCID: PMC10404895 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most ordinary malignant tumors. Current research has suggested that circular RNAs play an important role in tumor genesis and progression. The purpose of this study is to explore the function and underlying mechanisms of circ_0028007 in NPC. The levels of circ_0028007, miR-1179, and Squalene epoxidase (SQLE) were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation was detected by colony formation assay and thymidine analog 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Relevant kits detected caspase-3, glucose, and lactate levels. Western blot assay was used to detect the related protein content. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to examine the target relationship between miR-1179 and circ_0028007 or SQLE. circ_0028007 and SQLE were highly expressed in NPC, while miR-1179 was lowly expressed. circ_0028007 silencing inhibited NPC cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. However, the effect of circ_0028007 down-regulation on NPC cells was partially restored by co-transfection with miR-1179 inhibitor. Overexpression of SQLE partially restored the cell proliferation inhibited by circ_0028007 knockdown. circ_0028007 could regulate NPC progression via the miR-1179/SQLE axis. Therefore, circ_0028007 might be a new therapeutic target for NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiuwen Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lina Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
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6
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Qian CJ, Zhou YX, Wu LK, Wang YC, Teng XS, Yao J. Circ_0000182 promotes cholesterol synthesis and proliferation of stomach adenocarcinoma cells by targeting miR-579-3p/SQLE axis. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:22. [PMID: 36808302 PMCID: PMC9941389 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00630-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) or cholesterol metabolism have been demonstrated to participate in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) progression. However, the relationship between circRNAs and cholesterol metabolism in STAD and its underlined mechanism remain unclear. METHODS RNA and protein expression levels were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation was assessed by CCK-8, EdU incorporation and colony formation assays. Total cholesterol (TC) and free cholesterol (FC) levels were measured by the corresponding kits. The relationships between circ_0000182 and miR-579-3p or squalene epoxidase (SQLE) mRNA were investigated by bioinformatics analysis, RNA-RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter and RIP assays. RESULTS We found that circ_0000182 expression was significantly up-regulated in both STAD tissues and cell lines, and high circ_0000182 expression was correlated with increased tumor size. Circ_0000182 promoted cell proliferation and cholesterol synthesis of STAD cells. Accordingly, cell proliferation, cholesterol synthesis and SQLE expression were significantly inhibited by circ_0000182 knockdown in STAD cells, and these effects were partly reversed by miR-579-3p inhibition or SQLE over-expression. Furthermore, we identified that circ_0000182 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-579-3p, thereby facilitating SQLE expression, cholesterol synthesis and cell proliferation. CONCLUSION Circ_0000182 promotes cholesterol synthesis and proliferation of STAD cells by enhancing SQLE expression via sponging miR-579-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Juan Qian
- Early Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China
- School of Medicine, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yu-Xin Zhou
- School of Medicine, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lin-Ken Wu
- School of Medicine, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi-Chao Wang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Sheng Teng
- Early Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jun Yao
- School of Medicine, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, Zhejiang Province, China.
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7
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Wang Y, Li Q, Wang S, Wang BJ, Jin Y, Hu H, Fu QS, Wang JW, Wu Q, Qian L, Cao TT, Xia YB, Huang XX, Xu L. The role of noncoding RNAs in cancer lipid metabolism. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1026257. [PMID: 36452489 PMCID: PMC9704363 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1026257] [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: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on noncoding ribonucleic acids (ncRNAs) is mostly and broadly focused on microRNAs (miRNAs), cyclic RNAs (circRNAs), and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), which have been confirmed to play important roles in tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Specifically, recent studies have shown that ncRNAs contribute to tumorigenesis and tumor development by mediating changes in enzymes related to lipid metabolism. The purpose of this review is to discuss the characterized ncRNAs involved in the lipid metabolism of tumors to highlight ncRNA-mediated lipid metabolism-related enzyme expression in malignant tumors and its importance to tumor development. In this review, we describe the types of ncRNA and the mechanism of tumor lipid metabolism and analyze the important role of ncRNA in tumor lipid metabolism and its future prospects from the perspectives of ncRNA biological function and lipid metabolic enzyme classification. However, several critical issues still need to be resolved. Because ncRNAs can affect tumor processes by regulating lipid metabolism enzymes, in the future, we can study the unique role of ncRNAs from four aspects: disease prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Therefore, in the future, the development of ncRNA-targeted therapy will become a hot direction and shoulder a major task in the medical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Bi-jun Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Jin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Qing-sheng Fu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Jia-wei Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Qing Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Long Qian
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Ting-ting Cao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Ya-bin Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Xiao-xu Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Non-coding RNA Transformation Research of Anhui Higher Education Institution, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- Non-coding RNA Research Center of Wannan Medical College, Yijishan Hospital, Wuhu, Anhui, China
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Zou Y, Zhang H, Bi F, Tang Q, Xu H. Targeting the key cholesterol biosynthesis enzyme squalene monooxygenasefor cancer therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:938502. [PMID: 36091156 PMCID: PMC9449579 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.938502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism is often dysregulated in cancer. Squalene monooxygenase (SQLE) is the second rate-limiting enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. Since the discovery of SQLE dysregulation in cancer, compelling evidence has indicated that SQLE plays a vital role in cancer initiation and progression and is a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In this review, we provide an overview of the role and regulation of SQLE in cancer and summarize the updates of antitumor therapy targeting SQLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feng Bi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiulin Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qiulin Tang, ; Huanji Xu,
| | - Huanji Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center and Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Therapy in Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qiulin Tang, ; Huanji Xu,
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9
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You W, Ke J, Chen Y, Cai Z, Huang ZP, Hu P, Wu X. SQLE, A Key Enzyme in Cholesterol Metabolism, Correlates With Tumor Immune Infiltration and Immunotherapy Outcome of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:864244. [PMID: 35720314 PMCID: PMC9204319 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.864244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a treatment-refractory cancer with poor prognosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that squalene epoxidase (SQLE) plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of several cancer types in humans. However, the function and underlying mechanism of SQLE in PAAD remain unclear. Methods SQLE expression data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Genotype-Tissue Expression database. SQLE alterations were demonstrated based on the cBioPortal database. The upstream miRNAs regulating SQLE expression were predicted using starBase. The function of miRNA was validated by Western blotting and cell proliferation assay. The relationship between SQLE expression and biomarkers of the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) was analyzed using the TIMER and TISIDB databases. The correlation between SQLE and immunotherapy outcomes was assessed using Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion. The log-rank test was performed to compare prognosis between the high and low SQLE groups. Results We demonstrated a potential oncogenic role of SQLE. SQLE expression was upregulated in PAAD, and it predicted poor disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with PAAD. "Amplification" was the dominant type of SQLE alteration. In addition, this alteration was closely associated with the OS, disease-specific survival, DFS, and progression-free survival of patients with PAAD. Subsequently, hsa-miR-363-3p was recognized as a critical microRNA regulating SQLE expression and thereby influencing PAAD patient outcome. In vitro experiments suggested that miR-363-3p could knock down the expression of SQLE and inhibit the proliferation of PANC-1. SQLE was significantly associated with tumor immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints (including PD-1 and CTLA-4), and biomarkers of the TME. KEGG and GO analyses indicated that cholesterol metabolism-associated RNA functions are implicated in the mechanisms of SQLE. SQLE was inversely associated with cytotoxic lymphocytes and predicted immunotherapy outcomes. Conclusions Collectively, our results indicate that cholesterol metabolism-related overexpression of SQLE is strongly correlated with tumor immune infiltration and immunotherapy outcomes in patients with PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaojian Wu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Shi Q, Chen J, Zou X, Tang X. Intracellular Cholesterol Synthesis and Transport. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:819281. [PMID: 35386193 PMCID: PMC8978673 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.819281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol homeostasis is related to multiple diseases in humans, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative and hepatic diseases. The cholesterol levels in cells are balanced dynamically by uptake, biosynthesis, transport, distribution, esterification, and export. In this review, we focus on de novo cholesterol synthesis, cholesterol synthesis regulation, and intracellular cholesterol trafficking. In addition, the progression of lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) at multiple contact sites between organelles is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyang Shi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiahuan Chen
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaodong Zou
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaochun Tang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Chongqing Research Institute of Jilin University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaochun Tang,
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11
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HuR Promotes the Progression of Gastric Cancer through Mediating CDC5L Expression. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:5141927. [PMID: 35313568 PMCID: PMC8934217 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5141927] [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: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Methods We performed qRT-PCR, cell cycle assay, cell migration, and mouse transplantation model analysis in our experiments. It has been clarified that HuR and microRNAs (miRNAs) have important interplays in the regulation of tumor progression. Results This study found microRNA-133b (miR-133b), as a HuR-sponged miRNA in GC cells. Downregulation of HuR can promote the expression of miR-133b and further affect the downstream cyclin CDC5L. The expressions of miR-133b were slightly lower in GC tissues than adjacent normal tissues. Conclusion Our studies suggest that HuR and miR-133b are involved in the development and pathological process of GC cells.
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12
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Weidle UH, Nopora A. MicroRNAs and Corresponding Targets in Esophageal Cancer as Shown In Vitro and In Vivo in Preclinical Models. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2022; 19:113-129. [PMID: 35181582 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus is associated with a dismal prognosis. Therefore, identification of new targets and implementation of new treatment modalities are issues of paramount importance. Based on a survey of the literature, we identified microRNAs conferring antitumoral activity in preclinical in vivo experiments. In the category of miRs targeting secreted factors and transmembrane receptors, four miRs were up-regulated and 10 were down-regulated compared with five out of nine in the category transcription factors, and six miRs were down-regulated in the category enzymes, including metabolic enzymes. The down-regulated miRs have targets which can be inhibited by small molecules or antibody-related entities, or re-expressed by reconstitution therapy. Up-regulated miRs have targets which can be reconstituted with small molecules or inhibited with antagomirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Adam Nopora
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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13
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Tang W, Xu F, Zhao M, Zhang S. Ferroptosis regulators, especially SQLE, play an important role in prognosis, progression and immune environment of breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:1160. [PMID: 34715817 PMCID: PMC8555209 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08892-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ferroptosis, a new form of programmed cell death, has great potential for cancer treatment. However, the roles of ferroptosis-related (FR) genes in breast cancer (BC) remain elusive. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using TCGA database, a novel FR risk signature was constructed through the Lasso regression analysis. Meanwhile, its prognostic value was assessed by a series of survival analyses. Besides, a nomogram was constructed to predict the overall survival rate (OSR) of individual at 1,3,5 year. Four validation cohorts (n = 2248), including METABRIC, GSE58812, GSE20685 and ICGC-KR datasets, were employed to test the prognostic value of FR risk signature. The effects of FR risk signature on BC immune microenvironment were explored by CIBERSORT algorithm and ssGSEA method. The histological expressions of FR risk genes were presented by HPA database. The biofunctions of SQLE were determined by qPCR, MTT, wound-healing and Transwell assays. RESULTS We constructed a novel FR risk signature consisting of eight genes. High FR risk led a poor prognosis and was identified as an independent prognostic factor. Besides, A higher proportion of patients with luminal A type was observed in low-risk group (53%), while a higher proportion of patients with basal type in high-risk group (24%). FR risk score could discriminate the prognostic difference of most clinical subgroups, except for M1 stage, HER2 and basal types. Moreover, its prognostic value was successfully validated in other four cohorts. Through immune analyses, we found that the reduced infiltration levels of CD8+ and NK cells, whereas the enhanced activity of antigen presentation process appeared in high FR risk. Then, FR risk score was found to weakly correlate with the expressions of six immune checkpoints. Through the experiments in vitro, we confirmed that overexpression of SQLE could promote, whereas blocking SQLE could inhibit the proliferative, migrative and invasive abilities of BC cells. CONCLUSIONS FR risk signature was conducive to BC prognostic assessment. High FR risk level was closely associated with BC immunosuppression, but may not predict ICIs efficacy. Moreover, SQLE was identified as a crucial cancer-promoting gene in BC. Our findings provide new insights into prognostic assessment and molecular mechanism of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Tang
- Department of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, West Five Road, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fangshi Xu
- Department of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shuqun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, No. 157, West Five Road, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi, China.
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14
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Liu Y, Fang L, Liu W. High SQLE Expression and Gene Amplification Correlates with Poor Prognosis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:4709-4723. [PMID: 34163246 PMCID: PMC8213972 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s305719] [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: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Squalene epoxidase (SQLE) is considered a metabolic oncogene, but its biological function and prognostic value in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate the role of SQLE in the occurrence and development of HNSCC through bioinformatics analysis, and validation experiments. Methods Transcriptomic, genomic, and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas were used for pan-cancer analysis. SQLE expression in HNSCC was evaluated using Gene Expression Omnibus datasets and immunohistochemistry. The biological significance of SQLE in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HNSCC was determined using TISCH, HuRI, LinkedOmics, and TIMER 2.0. The prognostic value of SQLE in HNSCC was analyzed using univariate Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Effect of SQLE on the Cal27 HNSCC cell line was evaluated using cell counting kit 8, wound healing, and EdU assays. Results SQLE was overexpressed and amplified in various cancers, including HNSCC. High SQLE expression promoted cell proliferation, associated with T stage in HNSCC patients. Copy number amplification and DNA demethylation contributed to high SQLE expression in HNSCC, which was associated with poor prognosis. SQLE was related to HNSCC TME, and its mRNA expression/copy number alterations were negatively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, follicular helper T cells, and regulatory T cell infiltration and mast cell activation and positively correlated with the infiltration of M0 macrophages and resting mast cells in HNSCC. Conclusion SQLE was identified as a prognostic biomarker and a potential pharmaceutical target for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Fang
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Weixian Liu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
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15
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Kong D, Long D, Liu B, Pei D, Cao N, Zhang G, Xia Z, Luo M. Downregulation of long non-coding RNA LOC101928477 correlates with tumor progression by regulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Thorac Cancer 2021; 12:1303-1311. [PMID: 33713583 PMCID: PMC8088935 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.13858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the deadliest malignancies. There is a growing body of evidence showing that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in ESCC oncogenesis. The present study aimed to explore the role of LOC101928477, a newly discovered lncRNA, in the development and metastasis of ESCC. Methods In this study, real‐time PCR, western blotting, cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), flow cytometry, colony formation, wound healing, transwell migration/invasion assay, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were used. We also applied an in situ xenograft mouse model and a lung metastasis mouse model to verify our findings. Results We determined that LOC101928477 expression was inhibited in ESCC tissue and ESCC cell lines when compared with controls. Moreover, forced expression of LOC101928477 effectively inhibited ESCC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion via suppression of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, LOC101928477 overexpression inhibited in situ tumor growth and lung metastasis in a mouse model. Conclusions Together, our results suggested that LOC101928477 could be a novel suppressor gene involved in ESCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demiao Kong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Dali Long
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Dengke Pei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Na Cao
- Department of Logistics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou, Guiyang, China
| | - Guihua Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhenkun Xia
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Meng Luo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
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16
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A Novel Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature Predicts Overall Survival of Breast Cancer Patients. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10020151. [PMID: 33672990 PMCID: PMC7917807 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death which is distinctive from common forms of cell death. Accumulating evidence indicated the close relationship between ferroptosis and numerous human diseases. Regarding breast cancer, a related study indicated that some targeted medicines could induce ferroptosis, furthermore, some basic research found that ferroptosis-related genes were closely related to breast cancer. However, the correlation between ferroptosis-related genes and breast cancer patients’ prognosis remains unknown. We built an 8-ferroptosis-related-gene model to predict breast cancer patients’ prognosis. This model could stratify patients into high- or low-risk groups. Additionally, tumor microenvironment analyses displayed differently enriched immune cells and immune pathways between these two groups. This 8-gene model is believed to be of great value in predicting prognosis for breast cancer patients. Abstract Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women, thus a reliable prognostic model for overall survival (OS) in breast cancer is needed to improve treatment and care. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death. It is already known that siramesine and lapatinib could induce ferroptosis in breast cancer cells, and some ferroptosis-related genes were closely related with the outcomes of treatments regarding breast cancer. The relationship between these genes and the prognosis of OS remains unclear. The data of gene expression and related clinical information was downloaded from public databases. Based on the TCGA-BRCA cohort, an 8-gene prediction model was established with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) cox regression, and this model was validated in patients from the METABRIC cohort. Based on the median risk score obtained from the 8-gene model, patients were stratified into high- or low-risk groups. Cox regression analyses identified that the risk score was an independent predictor for OS. The findings from CIBERSORT and ssGSEA presented noticeable differences in enrichment scores for immune cells and pathways between the abovementioned two risk groups. To sum up, this prediction model has potential to be widely applied in future clinical settings.
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17
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Kim NI, Park MH, Kweon SS, Cho N, Lee JS. Squalene epoxidase expression is associated with breast tumor progression and with a poor prognosis in breast cancer. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:259. [PMID: 33664822 PMCID: PMC7882892 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) have been previously identified using massive parallel RNA sequencing in matched normal, breast cancer (BC) and nodal metastatic tissues. Squalene epoxidase (SQLE), one of these DEGs, is a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential involvement of SQLE in the tumorigenic process of BC and to determine its association with the clinical outcome of BC. SQLE mRNA expression was measured using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR in 10 pairs of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and BC tissues and their adjacent normal tissues. Immunohistochemical staining of SQLE on tissue microarray was performed in 26 normal breast, 79 DCIS and 198 BC samples. The role of SQLE as a prognostic biomarker in patients with BC has been verified using BreastMark. SQLE mRNA expression was significantly increased in DCIS and BC tissues compared with that in their adjacent normal tissues. High SQLE expression was detected in 0, 48.1 and 40.4% of normal breast, DCIS and BC tissues, respectively. SQLE expression in DCIS and BC tissues was significantly higher than that in normal breast tissues. High SQLE expression was observed in DCIS with higher nuclear grade, comedo-type necrosis and HER2 positivity. High SQLE expression in BC was associated with larger tumor size, nodal metastases, higher stage, HER2 subtype and distant metastatic relapse. High SQLE expression was associated with poor disease-free and overall survival, and independently predicted poor disease-free survival in patients with BC. Following BreastMark analysis, high SQLE mRNA expression in BC was significantly associated with a poor prognosis in the ‘all’, lymph node negative, lymph node positive, luminal A subtype and luminal B subtype groups. Therefore, SQLE expression may be upregulated during the tumorigenic process of BC, and high SQLE expression may be a useful biomarker for predicting a poor prognosis in patients with BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nah Ihm Kim
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ho Park
- Department of Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Seog Kweon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Namki Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Shin Lee
- Department of Pathology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
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18
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Qin Y, Hou Y, Liu S, Zhu P, Wan X, Zhao M, Peng M, Zeng H, Li Q, Jin T, Cui X, Liu M. A Novel Long Non-Coding RNA lnc030 Maintains Breast Cancer Stem Cell Stemness by Stabilizing SQLE mRNA and Increasing Cholesterol Synthesis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2002232. [PMID: 33511005 PMCID: PMC7816696 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202002232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered the roots of cancer metastasis and recurrence (CSCs), due in part to their self-renewal and therapy resistance properties. However, the underlying mechanisms for the regulation of CSC stemness are poorly understood. Recently, increasing evidence shows that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical regulators for cancer cell function in various malignancies including breast cancer, but how lncRNAs regulate the function of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) remains to be determined. Herein, using lncRNA/mRNA microarray assays, a novel lncRNA (named lnc030) is identified, which is highly expressed in BCSCs in vitro and in vivo, as a pivotal regulator in maintaining BCSC stemness and promoting tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, lnc030 cooperates with poly(rC) binding protein 2(PCBP2) to stabilize squalene epoxidase (SQLE) mRNA, resulting in an increase of cholesterol synthesis. The increased cholesterol in turn actives PI3K/Akt signaling, which governs BCSC stemness. In summary, these findings demonstrate that a new, lnc030-based mechanism for regulating cholesterol synthesis and stemness properties of BCSCs. The lnc030-SQLE-cholesterol synthesis pathway may serve as an effective therapeutic target for BCSC elimination and breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilu Qin
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Yixuan Hou
- Experimental Teaching Center of Basic Medicine ScienceChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Shuiqing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Pengpeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Xueying Wan
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Maojia Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Meixi Peng
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Huan Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Qiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Ting Jin
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
| | - Xiaojiang Cui
- Department of SurgerySamuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer InstituteCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCA90048USA
| | - Manran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical DiagnosticsChinese Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical UniversityChongqing400016China
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Shen T, Lu Y, Zhang Q. High Squalene Epoxidase in Tumors Predicts Worse Survival in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis on NAFLD and HCC. Cancer Control 2020; 27:1073274820914663. [PMID: 32216563 PMCID: PMC7137641 DOI: 10.1177/1073274820914663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify candidate biomarkers for predicting outcomes in
nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Using Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, we
identified common upregulated differential expressed genes (DEGs) in patients
with NAFLD/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and HCC and conducted survival
analysis of these upregulated DEGs with HCC outcomes. Two common upregulated
DEGs including squalene epoxidase (SQLE) and EPPK1 messenger RNA (mRNA) were
significantly upregulated in NAFLD, NASH, and HCC tissues, both in GSE45436
(P < .001) and TCGA profile (P <
.001). Both SQLE and EPPK1 mRNA were upregulated in 15.56% and 8.06% patients
with HCC in TCGA profile. Overexpression of SQLE in tumors was significantly
associated with worse overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in
patients with HCC (log-rank P = .027 and log-rank
P = .048, respectively), while no statistical significances
of OS and DFS were found in EPPK1 groups (both log-rank P >
.05). For validation, SQLE upregulation contributed to significantly worse OS in
patients wih HCC using Kaplan-Meier plotter analysis (hazard ratio = 1.43, 95%
confidence interval: 1.01-2.02, log-rank P = .043). In
addition, high level of SQLE significantly associated with advanced neoplasm
histologic grade, advanced AJCC stage, and α-fetoprotein elevation
(P = .036, .045, and .029, respectively). Squalene
epoxidase is associated with OS and DFS and serves as a novel prognostic
biomarker for patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Shen
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tong Ren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunfei Lu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Tong Ren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Squalene Epoxidase Correlates E-Cadherin Expression and Overall Survival in Colorectal Cancer Patients: The Impact on Prognosis and Correlation to Clinicopathologic Features. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8050632. [PMID: 31072053 PMCID: PMC6572612 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Squalene epoxidase (SE), coded by SQLE, is an important rate-limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway. Recently, the aberrant expression of SQLE, which is responsible for epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), has been reported in various types of cancer. This study was undertaken to clarify the clinicopathologic implications of SE in patients with stage I to IV colorectal cancer (CRC). We also analyzed the expression patterns of SE in association with E-cadherin in a series of CRCs. We detected the cytoplasmic expression of SE in 59.4% of carcinoma samples by immunohistochemistry (IHC). There was a significant correlation between a high level of SE expression and lymphovascular (LV) invasion (p < 0.001), tumor budding (p < 0.001), invasion depth (p = 0.002), regional lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), and pathologic TNM stage (p < 0.001). SE is more abundantly expressed at the invasive front, and reversely correlated with E-cadherin expression. Patients with SE-positive CRC had shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS) and poor overall survival (OS) than those with SE-negative CRC in multivariate analysis (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). These data suggest that SE can serve as a valuable biomarker for unfavorable prognosis, and as a possible therapeutic target in CRCs.
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Lou-Bonafonte JM, Martínez-Beamonte R, Sanclemente T, Surra JC, Herrera-Marcos LV, Sanchez-Marco J, Arnal C, Osada J. Current Insights into the Biological Action of Squalene. Mol Nutr Food Res 2018; 62:e1800136. [PMID: 29883523 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201800136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Squalene is a triterpenic compound found in a large number of plants and other sources with a long tradition of research since it was first reported in 1926. Herein a systematic review of studies concerning squalene published in the last 8 years is presented. These studies have provided further support for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic properties in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, an antineoplastic effect in nutrigenetic-type treatments, which depends on the failing metabolic pathway of tumors, has also been reported. The bioavailability of squalene in cell cultures, animal models, and in humans has been well established, and further progress has been made in regard to the intracellular transport of this lipophilic molecule. Squalene accumulates in the liver and decreases hepatic cholesterol and triglycerides, with these actions being exerted via a complex network of changes in gene expression at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Its presence in different biological fluids has also been studied. The combination of squalene with other bioactive compounds has been shown to enhance its pleiotropic properties and might lead to the formulation of functional foods and nutraceuticals to control oxidative stress and, therefore, numerous age-related diseases in human and veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Lou-Bonafonte
- Departamento de Farmacología y Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y del Deporte, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-22002, Spain.,Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain
| | - Roberto Martínez-Beamonte
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.,Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Huesca, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Huesca, E-22071, Spain
| | - Teresa Sanclemente
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Huesca, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Huesca, E-22071, Spain
| | - Joaquín C Surra
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.,Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Huesca, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Huesca, E-22071, Spain
| | - Luis V Herrera-Marcos
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain
| | - Javier Sanchez-Marco
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain
| | - Carmen Arnal
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.,Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain
| | - Jesús Osada
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain.,CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, E-28029, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, E-50013, Spain
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Zhang J, Zhang Y, Tan X, Zhang Q, Liu C, Zhang Y. MiR-23b-3p induces the proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinomas cells through the inhibition of EBF3. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2018; 50:605-614. [PMID: 29750239 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), some small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level, are always aberrantly expressed in carcinomas. In this study, we found that miR-23b-3p was remarkably up-regulated in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells and tissues. Moreover, miR-23b-3p could induce the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vitro. EBF3 was identified as the direct downstream target gene of miR-23b-3p and ectogenic EBF3 could strongly inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vitro. Furthermore, it was found that miR-23b-3p could regulate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition progress by blocking EBF3. Therefore, it was concluded that miR-23b-3p targeted EBF3 to accelerate the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Medical School of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, No. 1 Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Xiaoping Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, No. 1 Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, No. 1 Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Chaoyong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, No. 1 Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Cigarette smoke and chewing tobacco alter expression of different sets of miRNAs in oral keratinocytes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7040. [PMID: 29728663 PMCID: PMC5935709 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25498-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenic effect of tobacco in oral cancer is through chewing and/or smoking. Significant differences exist in development of oral cancer between tobacco users and non-users. However, molecular alterations induced by different forms of tobacco are yet to be fully elucidated. We developed cellular models of chronic exposure to chewing tobacco and cigarette smoke using immortalized oral keratinocytes. Chronic exposure to tobacco resulted in increased cell scattering and invasiveness in immortalized oral keratinocytes. miRNA sequencing using Illumina HiSeq 2500 resulted in the identification of 10 significantly dysregulated miRNAs (4 fold; p ≤ 0.05) in chewing tobacco treated cells and 6 in cigarette smoke exposed cells. We integrated this data with global proteomic data and identified 36 protein targets that showed inverse expression pattern in chewing tobacco treated cells and 16 protein targets that showed inverse expression in smoke exposed cells. In addition, we identified 6 novel miRNAs in chewing tobacco treated cells and 18 novel miRNAs in smoke exposed cells. Integrative analysis of dysregulated miRNAs and their targets indicates that signaling mechanisms leading to oncogenic transformation are distinct between both forms of tobacco. Our study demonstrates alterations in miRNA expression in oral cells in response to two frequently used forms of tobacco.
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24
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Cirmena G, Franceschelli P, Isnaldi E, Ferrando L, De Mariano M, Ballestrero A, Zoppoli G. Squalene epoxidase as a promising metabolic target in cancer treatment. Cancer Lett 2018; 425:13-20. [PMID: 29596888 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic alteration of the cholesterol synthesis pathway is a recognized mechanism of metabolic adaptation. In the present review, we focus on squalene epoxidase (SE), one of the two rate-limiting enzymes in cholesterol synthesis, retracing its history since its discovery as an antimycotic target to its description as an emerging metabolic oncogene by amplification with clinical relevance in cancer. We review the published literature assessing the association between SE over-expression and poor prognosis in this disease. We assess the works demonstrating how SE promotes tumor cell proliferation and migration, and displaying evidence of cancer cell demise in presence of human SE inhibitors in in vitro and in vivo models. Taken together, robust scientific evidence has by now accumulated pointing out SE as a promising novel therapeutic target in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Alberto Ballestrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Italy; Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Zoppoli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Italy; Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
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25
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Zhao L, Li R, Xu S, Li Y, Zhao P, Dong W, Liu Z, Zhao Q, Tan B. Tumor suppressor miR-128-3p inhibits metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by targeting ZEB1 in esophageal squamous-cell cancer. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2018; 50:171-180. [PMID: 29329360 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmx132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are some short RNAs that regulate multiple biological functions at post-transcriptional levels, such as tumorigenic processes, inflammatory lesions and cell apoptosis. Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox factor 1 (ZEB1) is a crucial mediator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). It induces malignant progression of various cancers including human esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this study, we found that miR-128-3p was downregulated in ESCC tissues and cells by using PCR. Moreover, down-regulated expression of miR-128-3p was testified to be associated with poor prognosis of ESCC patients and might be regarded as an independent prognostic factor. Then, we examined the role of miR-128-3p in ESCC cells, and found that miR-128-3p could suppress the cell migration and invasion in vitro. Furthermore, ZEB1 was confirmed to be a direct target of miR-128-3p by luciferase reporter assay. Rescue experiments proved that EMT was regulated by miR-128-3p via suppression of ZEB1. Taken all together, we conclude that miR-128-3p suppresses EMT and metastasis via ZEB1, and miR-128-3p may be a critical mediator in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zhao
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637000, China
| | - Shanling Xu
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Yi Li
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Pei Zhao
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Wei Dong
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Zhenjun Liu
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Intensive Care Unit, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
| | - Bo Tan
- Department of Ultrasonic Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu 610000, China
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