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Mizdrak M, Ticinovic Kurir T, Mizdrak I, Kumric M, Krnic M, Bozic J. The Role of the Gap Junction Protein Connexin in Adrenal Gland Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5399. [PMID: 38791437 PMCID: PMC11121959 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105399] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are important in the regulation of cell growth, morphology, differentiation and migration. However, recently, more attention has been paid to their role in the pathogenesis of different diseases as well as tumorigenesis, invasion and metastases. The expression pattern and possible role of connexins (Cxs), as major GJ proteins, under both physiological and pathological conditions in the adrenal gland, were evaluated in this review. The databases Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus were searched. Studies were evaluated if they provided data regarding the connexin expression pattern in the adrenal gland, despite current knowledge of this topic not being widely investigated. Connexin expression in the adrenal gland differs according to different parts of the gland and depends on ACTH release. Cx43 is the most studied connexin expressed in the adrenal gland cortex. In addition, Cx26, Cx32 and Cx50 were also investigated in the human adrenal gland. Cx50 as the most widespread connexin, along with Cx26, Cx29, Cx32, Cx36 and Cx43, has been expressed in the adrenal medulla with distinct cellular distribution. Considerable effort has recently been directed toward connexins as therapeutically targeted molecules. At present, there exist several viable strategies in the development of potential connexin-based therapeutics. The differential and hormone-dependent distribution of gap junctions within adrenal glands, the relatively large gap junction within this gland and the increase in the gap junction size and number following hormonal treatment would indicate that gap junctions play a pivotal role in cell functioning in the adrenal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Mizdrak
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.); (T.T.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Tina Ticinovic Kurir
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.); (T.T.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Ivan Mizdrak
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Marko Kumric
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Laboratory for Cardiometabolic Research, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Mladen Krnic
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.); (T.T.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Josko Bozic
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia;
- Laboratory for Cardiometabolic Research, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
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The Multifaceted Role of Connexins in Tumor Microenvironment Initiation and Maintenance. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020204. [PMID: 36829482 PMCID: PMC9953436 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Today's research on the processes of carcinogenesis and the vital activity of tumor tissues implies more attention be paid to constituents of the tumor microenvironment and their interactions. These interactions between cells in the tumor microenvironment can be mediated via different types of protein junctions. Connexins are one of the major contributors to intercellular communication. They form the gap junctions responsible for the transfer of ions, metabolites, peptides, miRNA, etc., between neighboring tumor cells as well as between tumor and stromal cells. Connexin hemichannels mediate purinergic signaling and bidirectional molecular transport with the extracellular environment. Additionally, connexins have been reported to localize in tumor-derived exosomes and facilitate the release of their cargo. A large body of evidence implies that the role of connexins in cancer is multifaceted. The pro- or anti-tumorigenic properties of connexins are determined by their abundance, localization, and functionality as well as their channel assembly and non-channel functions. In this review, we have summarized the data on the contribution of connexins to the formation of the tumor microenvironment and to cancer initiation and progression.
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Sun X, Xiao H, Li S, Chen R, Lin Z, Yang Y, Chen Z, Deng L, Huang H. Connexin32 ameliorates epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition in diabetic renal tubular via inhibiting NOX4. Pharmacol Res 2022; 176:106084. [PMID: 35051590 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis (RIF), characterized by epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs), is the main cause of diabetic renal fibrosis. Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the development of diabetic RIF. Connexin32 (Cx32), prominently expressed in renal TECs, has emerged as an important player in the regulation of oxidative stress. However, the role of Cx32 in diabetic RIF has not been explored yet. Here, we showed that adenovirus-mediated Cx32 overexpression suppressed EMT to ameliorate RIF and renal function in STZ-induced diabetic mice, while knockout (KO) of Cx32 exacerbated RIF in diabetic mice. Moreover, overexpression of Cx32 inhibited EMT and the production of extra cellular matrix (ECM) in high glucose (HG) induced NRK-52E cells, whereas knockdown of Cx32 showed the opposite effects. Furthermore, we showed that NOX4, the main source of ROS in renal tubular, was down-regulated by Cx32. Mechanistically, Cx32 down-regulated the expression of PKC alpha in a carboxyl-terminal-dependent manner, thereby inhibiting the phosphorylation at Thr147 of p22phox triggered by PKC alpha, which ultimately repressed the formation of the p22phox-NOX4 complex to reduce the protein level of NOX4. Thus, we establish Cx32 as a novel target and confirm the protection mechanism in RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Sun
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Haiming Xiao
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Rui Chen
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zeyuan Lin
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiquan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Li Deng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Heqing Huang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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Gong K, Hong Q, Wu H, Wang F, Zhong L, Shen L, Xu P, Zhang W, Cao H, Zhan YY, Hu T, Hong X. Gap junctions mediate glucose transfer to promote colon cancer growth in three-dimensional spheroid culture. Cancer Lett 2022; 531:27-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Ray A, Mehta PP. Cysteine residues in the C-terminal tail of connexin32 regulate its trafficking. Cell Signal 2021; 85:110063. [PMID: 34146657 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are formed by the assembly of constituent transmembrane proteins called connexins (Cxs). Aberrations in this assembly of Cxs are observed in several genetic diseases as well as in cancers. Hence it becomes imperative to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying such assembly defect. The polarized cells in the epithelia express Connexin32 (Cx32). The C-terminal tail (CT) of Cx32 orchestrates several aspects of GJ dynamics, function and growth. The study here was aimed at determining if post-translational modifications, specifically, palmitoylation of cysteine residues, present in the CT of Cx32, has any effect on GJ assembly. The CT of Cx32 was found to harbor three cysteine residues, which are likely to be modified by palmitoylation. The study here has revealed for the first time that Cx32 is palmitoylated at cysteine 217 (C217) in cell line derived from prostate tumors. However, it was found that mutating C217 to alanine affected neither the trafficking nor the ability of Cx32 to assemble into GJs. Intriguingly, it was discovered that mutating cysteine 280 and 283, only in combination, blocked the trafficking of Cx32 from the trans-Golgi network to the cell surface. The mutants showed reduced stability due to enhanced lysosomal degradation. Overall, the findings reveal the importance of the two C-terminal cysteine residues of Cx32 in regulating its trafficking and stability and hence its ability to assemble into GJs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuttoma Ray
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Parmender P Mehta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Scatolini M, Patel A, Grosso E, Mello-Grand M, Ostano P, Coppo R, Vitiello M, Venesio T, Zaccagna A, Pisacane A, Sarotto I, Taverna D, Poliseno L, Bergamaschi D, Chiorino G. GJB5 association with BRAF mutation and survival in cutaneous malignant melanoma. Br J Dermatol 2021; 186:117-128. [PMID: 34240406 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.20629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junctional intercellular communication is crucial for epidermal cellular homeostasis. Inability to establish melanocyte-keratinocytes contacts and loss of intercellular junction's integrity may contribute to melanoma development. Connexins, laminins and desmocollins have been implicated in the control of melanoma growth, where their reduced expression has been reported in metastatic lesions. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate Connexin 31.1 (GJB5) expression and identify any association with BRAF mutational status, melanoma patient prognosis and MAPK inhibitors (MAPKi) treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS GJB5 expression was measured at RNA and protein level in melanoma clinical samples and established cell lines treated or not with BRAF and MEK inhibitors, as well as in cell lines which developed MAPK inhibitors resistance. Findings were further validated and confirmed by analysis of independent datasets. RESULTS Our analysis reveals significant downregulation of GJB5 expression in metastatic melanoma lesions compared to primary ones and in BRAF mutated versus BRAF wild-type melanomas. Likewise, GJB5 expression is significantly lower in BRAFV600E compared with BRAFWT cell lines and increases upon MAPKi treatment. MAPKi-resistant melanoma cells display a similar expression pattern compared to BRAFWT cells, with increased GJB5 expression associated with morphological changes. Enhancement of BRAFV600E expression in BRAFWT melanoma cells significantly upregulates miR-335-5p expression with consequent downregulation of GJB5, one of its targets. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-335-5p in two BRAFWT cell lines confirms specific GJB5 protein downregulation. RT-qPCR analysis also revealed upregulation of miR-335 in BRAFV600E melanoma cells, which is significantly downregulated in cells resistant to MEK inhibitors. Our data were further validated using the TCGA-SKCM dataset, where BRAF mutations associate with increased miR-335 expression and inversely correlate with GJB5 expression. In clinical samples, GJB5 underexpression is also associated with patient overall worse survival, especially at early stages. CONCLUSION We identified a significant association between metastases / BRAF mutation and low GJB5 expression in melanoma. Our results identify a novel mechanism of Gap-junctional protein regulation, suggesting a prognostic role for GJB5 in cutaneous melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Scatolini
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Fondazione Edo ed Elvo Tempia, 13875, Ponderano, BI, Italy
| | - A Patel
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London SMD, QMUL, London, E1 2AT, UK
| | - E Grosso
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Fondazione Edo ed Elvo Tempia, 13875, Ponderano, BI, Italy
| | - M Mello-Grand
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, Fondazione Edo ed Elvo Tempia, 13900, Biella, Italy
| | - P Ostano
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, Fondazione Edo ed Elvo Tempia, 13900, Biella, Italy
| | - R Coppo
- Molecular Biotechnology Centre, 10126, Torino, Italy.,Department of Clinical Bio-Resource Research and Development, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - M Vitiello
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, Istituto Toscano Tumori, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - T Venesio
- Pathology and Dermosurgery Units, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - A Zaccagna
- Pathology and Dermosurgery Units, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - A Pisacane
- Pathology and Dermosurgery Units, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - I Sarotto
- Pathology and Dermosurgery Units, Candiolo Cancer Institute (FPO-IRCCS), 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - D Taverna
- Molecular Biotechnology Centre, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | - L Poliseno
- Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, Istituto Toscano Tumori, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - D Bergamaschi
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London SMD, QMUL, London, E1 2AT, UK
| | - G Chiorino
- Cancer Genomics Laboratory, Fondazione Edo ed Elvo Tempia, 13900, Biella, Italy
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Cx43 phosphorylation sites regulate pancreatic cancer metastasis. Oncogene 2021; 40:1909-1920. [PMID: 33603164 PMCID: PMC8191514 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01668-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is aggressive, highly metastatic and characterized by a robust desmoplasia. Connexin proteins that form gap junctions have been implicated in tumor suppression for over 30 years. Cx43, the most widely expressed connexin, regulates cell behaviors, including migration and proliferation. Thus, we hypothesized that Cx43 could regulate PDA progression. Phosphorylation of Cx43 by Casein Kinase 1 (CK1) regulates gap junction assembly. We interbred the well-established KrasLSL-G12D/+;p48Cre/+ (KC) mouse model of PDA with homozygous "knock-in" mutant Cx43 mice bearing amino acid substitution at CK1 sites (Cx43CK1A) and found profound and surprising effects on cancer progression. Crossing the Cx43CK1A mouse onto the KC background (termed KC;CxCK1A) led to significant extension of lifespan, from a median of 370 to 486 days (p = 0.03) and a decreased incidence of metastasis (p = 0.045). However, when we examined early stages of disease, we found more rapid onset of tissue remodeling in the KC;CxCK1A mouse followed by divergence to a cystic phenotype. During tumorigenesis, gap junctions are increasingly present in stromal cells of the KC mice but are absent from the KC;Cx43CK1A mice. Tail vein metastasis assays with cells derived from KC or KC;CxCK1A tumors showed that KC;CxCK1A cells could efficiently colonize the lung and downregulate Cx43 expression, arguing that inhibition of metastasis was not occurring at the distal site. Instead, stromal gap junctions, their associated signaling events or other unknown Cx43-dependent events facilitate metastatic capacity in the primary tumor.
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Ouabain Promotes Gap Junctional Intercellular Communication in Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010358. [PMID: 33396341 PMCID: PMC7801950 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are molecular structures that allow communication between neighboring cells. It has been shown that gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is notoriously reduced in cancer cells compared to their normal counterparts. Ouabain, a plant derived substance, widely known for its therapeutic properties on the heart, has been shown to play a role in several types of cancer, although its mechanism of action is not yet fully understood. Since we have previously shown that ouabain enhances GJIC in epithelial cells (MDCK), here we probed whether ouabain affects GJIC in a variety of cancer cell lines, including cervico-uterine (CasKi, SiHa and Hela), breast (MDA-MB-321 and MCF7), lung (A549), colon (SW480) and pancreas (HPAF-II). For this purpose, we conducted dye transfer assays to measure and compare GJIC in monolayers of cells with and without treatment with ouabain (0.1, 1, 10, 50 and 500 nM). We found that ouabain induces a statistically significant enhancement of GJIC in all of these cancer cell lines, albeit with distinct sensitivity. Additionally, we show that synthesis of new nucleotides or protein subunits is not required, and that Csrc, ErK1/2 and ROCK-Rho mediate the signaling mechanisms. These results may contribute to explaining how ouabain influences cancer.
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Chen ZQ, Sun XH, Li XJ, Xu ZC, Yang Y, Lin ZY, Xiao HM, Zhang M, Quan SJ, Huang HQ. Polydatin attenuates renal fibrosis in diabetic mice through regulating the Cx32-Nox4 signaling pathway. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2020; 41:1587-1596. [PMID: 32724174 PMCID: PMC7921128 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-0475-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously found that polydatin could attenuate renal oxidative stress in diabetic mice and improve renal fibrosis. Recent evidence shows that NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4)-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to inflammatory and fibrotic processes in diabetic kidneys. In this study we investigated whether polydatin attenuated renal fibrosis by regulating Nox4 in vitro and in vivo. In high glucose-treated rat glomerular mesangial cells, polydatin significantly decreased the protein levels of Nox4 by promoting its K48-linked polyubiquitination, thus inhibited the production of ROS, and eventually decreasing the expression of fibronectin (FN) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), the main factors that exacerbate diabetic renal fibrosis. Overexpression of Nox4 abolished the inhibitory effects of polydatin on FN and ICAM-1 expression. In addition, the expression of Connexin32 (Cx32) was significantly decreased, which was restored by polydatin treatment. Cx32 interacted with Nox4 and reduced its protein levels. Knockdown of Cx32 abolished the inhibitory effects of polydatin on the expression of FN and ICAM-1. In the kidneys of streptozocin-induced diabetic mice, administration of polydatin (100 mg·kg-1·d-1, ig, 6 days a week for 12 weeks) increased Cx32 expression and reduced Nox4 expression, decreased renal oxidative stress levels and the expression of fibrotic factors, eventually attenuating renal injury and fibrosis. In conclusion, polydatin promotes K48-linked polyubiquitination and degradation of Nox4 by restoring Cx32 expression, thereby decreasing renal oxidative stress levels and ultimately ameliorating the pathological progress of diabetic renal fibrosis. Thus, polydatin reduces renal oxidative stress levels and attenuates diabetic renal fibrosis through regulating the Cx32-Nox4 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Quan Chen
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Sun
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xue-Juan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518026, China
| | - Zhan-Chi Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ze-Yuan Lin
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hai-Ming Xiao
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shi-Jian Quan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - He-Qing Huang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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Connexins-Therapeutic Targets in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239119. [PMID: 33266154 PMCID: PMC7730856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family that forms intercellular channels localised in gap junction (GJ) plaques and single transmembrane channels called hemichannels. They participate in intercellular communication or communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Connexins affect cell homeostasis, growth and differentiation by enabling the exchange of metabolites or by interfering with various signalling pathways. Alterations in the functionality and the expression of connexins have been linked to the occurrence of many diseases. Connexins have been already linked to cancers, cardiac and brain disorders, chronic lung and kidney conditions and wound healing processes. Connexins have been shown either to suppress cancer tumour growth or to increase tumorigenicity by promoting cancer cell growth, migration and invasiveness. A better understanding of the complexity of cancer biology related to connexins and intercellular communication could result in the design of novel therapeutic strategies. The modulation of connexin expression may be an effective therapeutic approach in some types of cancers. Therefore, one important challenge is the search for mechanisms and new drugs, selectively modulating the expression of various connexin isoforms. We performed a systematic literature search up to February 2020 in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE. Our search terms were as follows: connexins, hemichannels, cancer and cancer treatment. This review aims to provide information about the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, as well as to discuss possible therapeutic options that are currently being studied.
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11
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Yang L, Liu B, Chen H, Gao R, Huang K, Guo Q, Li F, Chen W, He J. Progress in the application of organoids to breast cancer research. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:5420-5427. [PMID: 32283573 PMCID: PMC7214171 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women. Breast cancer research is currently based mainly on animal models and traditional cell culture. However, the inherent species gap between humans and animals, as well as differences in organization between organs and cells, limits research advances. The breast cancer organoid can reproduce many of the key features of human breast cancer, thereby providing a new platform for investigating the mechanisms underlying the development, progression, metastasis and drug resistance of breast cancer. The application of organoid technology can also promote drug discovery and the design of individualized treatment strategies. Here, we discuss the latest advances in the use of organoid technology for breast cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baoer Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haodong Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rui Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kanghua Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiuyi Guo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weicai Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinsong He
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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12
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Li H, Xu CX, Gong RJ, Chi JS, Liu P, Liu XM. How does Helicobacter pylori cause gastric cancer through connexins: An opinion review. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:5220-5232. [PMID: 31558869 PMCID: PMC6761244 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i35.5220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative bacterium with a number of virulence factors, such as cytotoxin-associated gene A, vacuolating cytotoxin A, its pathogenicity island, and lipopolysaccharide, which cause gastrointestinal diseases. Connexins function in gap junctional homeostasis, and their downregulation is closely related to gastric carcinogenesis. Investigations into H. pylori infection and the fine-tuning of connexins in cells or tissues have been reported in previous studies. Therefore, in this review, the potential mechanisms of H. pylori-induced gastric cancer through connexins are summarized in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Can-Xia Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ren-Jie Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jing-Shu Chi
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
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13
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Li H, Xu CX, Gong RJ, Chi JS, Liu P, Liu XM. How does Helicobacter pyloricause gastric cancer through connexins: An opinion review. World J Gastroenterol 2019. [DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i355220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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14
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Solan JL, Márquez-Rosado L, Lampe PD. Cx43 phosphorylation-mediated effects on ERK and Akt protect against ischemia reperfusion injury and alter the stability of the stress-inducible protein NDRG1. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:11762-11771. [PMID: 31189653 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions contain intercellular channels that enable intercellular communication of small molecules while also serving as a signaling scaffold. Connexins, the proteins that form gap junctions in vertebrates, are highly regulated and typically have short (<2 h) half-lives. Connexin43 (Cx43), the predominate connexin in the myocardium and epithelial tissues, is phosphorylated on more than a dozen serine residues and interacts with a variety of protein kinases. These interactions regulate Cx43 and gap junction formation and stability. Casein kinase 1 (CK1)-mediated phosphorylation of Cx43 promotes gap junction assembly. Using murine knock-in technology and quantitative PCR, immunoblotting, and immunoprecipitation assays, we show here that mutation of the CK1 phosphorylation sites in Cx43 reduces the levels of total Cx43 in the myocardium and increases Cx43 phosphorylation on sites phosphorylated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In aged myocardium, we found that, compared with WT Cx43, mutant Cx43 expression increases ERK activation, phosphorylation of Akt substrates, and protection from ischemia-induced injury. Our findings also uncovered that Cx43 interacts with the hypoxia-inducible protein N-Myc downstream-regulated gene 1 protein (NDRG1) and that Cx43 phosphorylation status controls this interaction and dramatically affects NDRG1 stability. We propose that, in addition to altering gap junction stability, Cx43 phosphorylation directly and dynamically regulates cellular signaling through ERK and Akt in response to ischemic injury. We conclude that gap junction-dependent NDRG1 regulation might explain some cellular responses to hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joell L Solan
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109
| | - Lucrecia Márquez-Rosado
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109
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15
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Connexin 43 Loss Triggers Cell Cycle Entry and Invasion in Non-Neoplastic Breast Epithelium: A Role for Noncanonical Wnt Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030339. [PMID: 30857262 PMCID: PMC6468895 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) is disrupted in breast cancer, and re-expression of this protein in human breast cancer cell lines leads to decreased proliferation and invasiveness, suggesting a tumor suppressive role. This study aims to investigate the role of Cx43 in proliferation and invasion starting from non-neoplastic breast epithelium. (2) Methods: Nontumorigenic human mammary epithelial HMT-3522 S1 cells and Cx43 shRNA-transfected counterparts were cultured under 2-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D conditions. (3) Results: Silencing Cx43 induced mislocalization of β-catenin and Scrib from apicolateral membrane domains in glandular structures or acini formed in 3-D culture, suggesting the loss of apical polarity. Cell cycle entry and proliferation were enhanced, concomitantly with c-Myc and cyclin D1 upregulation, while no detectable activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling was observed. Motility and invasion were also triggered and were associated with altered acinar morphology and activation of ERK1/2 and Rho GTPase signaling, which acts downstream of the noncanonical Wnt pathway. The invasion of Cx43-shRNA S1 cells was observed only under permissive stiffness of the extracellular matrix (ECM). (4) Conclusion: Our results suggest that Cx43 controls proliferation and invasion in the normal mammary epithelium in part by regulating noncanonical Wnt signaling.
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16
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Aasen T, Sansano I, Montero MÁ, Romagosa C, Temprana-Salvador J, Martínez-Marti A, Moliné T, Hernández-Losa J, Ramón y Cajal S. Insight into the Role and Regulation of Gap Junction Genes in Lung Cancer and Identification of Nuclear Cx43 as a Putative Biomarker of Poor Prognosis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030320. [PMID: 30845770 PMCID: PMC6468764 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct intercellular communication, mediated by gap junctions formed by the connexin transmembrane protein family, is frequently dysregulated in cancer. Connexins have been described as tumour suppressors, but emerging evidence suggests that they can also act as tumour promoters. This feature is connexin- and tissue-specific and may be mediated by complex signalling pathways through gap junctions or hemichannels or by completely junction-independent events. Lung cancer is the number one cancer in terms of mortality worldwide, and novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are urgently needed. Our objective was to gain a better understanding of connexins in this setting. We used several in silico tools to analyse TCGA data in order to compare connexin mRNA expression between healthy lung tissue and lung tumours and correlated these results with gene methylation patterns. Using Kaplan-Meier plotter tools, we analysed a microarray dataset and an RNA-seq dataset of non-small cell lung tumours in order to correlate connexin expression with patient prognosis. We found that connexin mRNA expression is frequently either upregulated or downregulated in lung tumours. This correlated with both good and poor prognosis (overall survival) in a clear connexin isoform-dependent manner. These associations were strongly influenced by the histological subtype (adenocarcinoma versus squamous cell carcinoma). We present an overview of all connexins but particularly focus on four isoforms implicated in lung cancer: Cx26, Cx30.3, Cx32 and Cx43. We further analysed the protein expression and localization of Cx43 in a series of 73 human lung tumours. We identified a subset of tumours that exhibited a unique strong nuclear Cx43 expression pattern that predicted worse overall survival (p = 0.014). Upon sub-stratification, the prognostic value remained highly significant in the adenocarcinoma subtype (p = 0.002) but not in the squamous carcinoma subtype (p = 0.578). This finding highlights the importance of analysis of connexin expression at the protein level, particularly the subcellular localization. Elucidation of the underlying pathways regulating Cx43 localization may provide for novel therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | - Irene Sansano
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | - Cleofé Romagosa
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | | | - Teresa Moliné
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
| | | | - Santiago Ramón y Cajal
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona 08035, Spain.
- Pathology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona 08035, Spain.
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17
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Trease AJ, Li H, Spagnol G, Zheng L, Stauch KL, Sorgen PL. Regulation of Connexin32 by ephrin receptors and T-cell protein-tyrosine phosphatase. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:341-350. [PMID: 30401746 PMCID: PMC6322898 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.003883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular conduits that permit the passage of ions, small metabolites, and signaling molecules between cells. Connexin32 (Cx32) is a major gap junction protein in the liver and brain. Phosphorylation is integral to regulating connexin assembly, degradation, and electrical and metabolic coupling, as well as to interactions with molecular partners. Cx32 contains two intracellular tyrosine residues, and tyrosine phosphorylation of Cx32 has been detected after activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor; however, the specific tyrosine residue and the functional implication of this phosphorylation remain unknown. To address the limited available information on Cx32 regulation by tyrosine kinases, here we used the Cx32 C-terminal (CT) domain in an in vitro kinase-screening assay, which identified ephrin (Eph) receptor family members as tyrosine kinases that phosphorylate Cx32. We found that EphB1 and EphA1 phosphorylate the Cx32CT domain residue Tyr243 Unlike for Cx43, the tyrosine phosphorylation of the Cx32CT increased gap junction intercellular communication. We also demonstrated that T-cell protein-tyrosine phosphatase dephosphorylates pTyr243 The data presented above along with additional examples throughout the literature of gap junction regulation by kinases, indicate that one cannot extrapolate the effect of a kinase on one connexin to another.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanjun Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198
| | | | - Li Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
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18
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Delmar M, Laird DW, Naus CC, Nielsen MS, Verselis VK, White TW. Connexins and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2018; 10:cshperspect.a029348. [PMID: 28778872 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a029348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Inherited or acquired alterations in the structure and function of connexin proteins have long been associated with disease. In the present work, we review current knowledge on the role of connexins in diseases associated with the heart, nervous system, cochlea, and skin, as well as cancer and pleiotropic syndromes such as oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD). Although incomplete by virtue of space and the extent of the topic, this review emphasizes the fact that connexin function is not only associated with gap junction channel formation. As such, both canonical and noncanonical functions of connexins are fundamental components in the pathophysiology of multiple connexin related disorders, many of them highly debilitating and life threatening. Improved understanding of connexin biology has the potential to advance our understanding of mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Delmar
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A5C1, Canada
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Morten S Nielsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Vytautas K Verselis
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York 10461
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11790
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19
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Abstract
Being critical mediators of liver homeostasis, connexins and their channels are frequently involved in liver toxicity. In the current paper, specific attention is paid to actions of hepatotoxic drugs on these communicative structures. In a first part, an overview is provided on the structural, regulatory and functional properties of connexin-based channels in the liver. In the second part, documented effects of acetaminophen, hypolipidemic drugs, phenobarbital and methapyriline on connexin signaling are discussed. Furthermore, the relevance of this subject for the fields of clinical and in vitro toxicology is demonstrated. Relevance for patients: The role of connexin signaling in drug-induced hepatotoxicity may be of high clinical relevance, as it offers perspectives for the therapeutic treatment of such insults by interfering with connexin channel opening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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20
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Abstract
Fifty years ago, tumour cells were found to lack electrical coupling, leading to the hypothesis that loss of direct intercellular communication is commonly associated with cancer onset and progression. Subsequent studies linked this phenomenon to gap junctions composed of connexin proteins. Although many studies support the notion that connexins are tumour suppressors, recent evidence suggests that, in some tumour types, they may facilitate specific stages of tumour progression through both junctional and non-junctional signalling pathways. This Timeline article highlights the milestones connecting gap junctions to cancer, and underscores important unanswered questions, controversies and therapeutic opportunities in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
| | - Marc Mesnil
- STIM Laboratory ERL 7368 CNRS - Faculté des Sciences
Fondamentales et Appliquées, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers,
France
| | - Christian C. Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The Life
Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul D. Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research
Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Dale W. Laird
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
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21
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Non-coding RNA as mediators in microenvironment–breast cancer cell communication. Cancer Lett 2016; 380:289-95. [PMID: 26582656 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment has a critical role in the survival and decision of the cancer cells. These include support by enhanced angiogenesis, and metastasis or adaptation of dormancy. This article discusses methods by which the microenvironment sustains the tumor. This process is important as it will identify avenues of drug targets. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are evolving as key mediators in the interaction between the cancer cells and the microenvironment. Thus, the question is how to develop methods to effectively block the effects of the ncRNA and/or to introduce them to prevent metastasis, dormancy or to reverse dormancy. We focused on the advantages of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for RNA delivery. MSCs can be available as "off-the-shelf" cells. Thus far, MSCs are shown to be safe when transplanted across allogeneic barriers. We discussed the various methods by which MSCs can interact with cancer cells to deliver ncRNA or antagomirs. We also include the advances and possible confounds of using these methods. Overall, this review article provides a potential method by which MSCs can be used for effective delivery of nucleic acid to treat cancer.
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22
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Leithe E. Regulation of connexins by the ubiquitin system: Implications for intercellular communication and cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2016; 1865:133-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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23
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Bell CL, Murray SA. Adrenocortical Gap Junctions and Their Functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:82. [PMID: 27445985 PMCID: PMC4925680 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenal cortical steroidogenesis and proliferation are thought to be modulated by gap junction-mediated direct cell-cell communication of regulatory molecules between cells. Such communication is regulated by the number of gap junction channels between contacting cells, the rate at which information flows between these channels, and the rate of channel turnover. Knowledge of the factors regulating gap junction-mediated communication and the turnover process are critical to an understanding of adrenal cortical cell functions, including development, hormonal response to adrenocorticotropin, and neoplastic dedifferentiation. Here, we review what is known about gap junctions in the adrenal gland, with particular attention to their role in adrenocortical cell steroidogenesis and proliferation. Information and insight gained from electrophysiological, molecular biological, and imaging (immunocytochemical, freeze fracture, transmission electron microscopic, and live cell) techniques will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl L. Bell
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sandra A. Murray
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- *Correspondence: Sandra A. Murray,
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24
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Maes M, Crespo Yanguas S, Willebrords J, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Connexin and pannexin signaling in gastrointestinal and liver disease. Transl Res 2015; 166:332-43. [PMID: 26051630 PMCID: PMC4570182 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2015.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions, which mediate intercellular communication, are key players in digestive homeostasis. They are also frequently involved in gastrointestinal and liver pathology. This equally holds true for connexin (Cx) hemichannels, the structural precursors of gap junctions, and pannexin (Panx) channels, Cx-like proteins assembled in a hemichannel configuration. Both Cx hemichannels and Panx channels facilitate extracellular communication and drive a number of deteriorative processes, such as cell death and inflammation. Cxs, Panxs, and their channels underlie a wide spectrum of gastrointestinal and liver diseases, including gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory intestinal conditions, acute liver failure, cholestasis, hepatitis and steatosis, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, infectious gastrointestinal pathologies, and gastrointestinal and liver cancer. This could open promising perspectives for the characterization of new targets and biomarkers for therapeutic and diagnostic clinical purposes in the area of gastroenterology and hepatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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25
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Nahta R, Al-Mulla F, Al-Temaimi R, Amedei A, Andrade-Vieira R, Bay SN, Brown DG, Calaf GM, Castellino RC, Cohen-Solal KA, Colacci A, Cruickshanks N, Dent P, Di Fiore R, Forte S, Goldberg GS, Hamid RA, Krishnan H, Laird DW, Lasfar A, Marignani PA, Memeo L, Mondello C, Naus CC, Ponce-Cusi R, Raju J, Roy D, Roy R, Ryan EP, Salem HK, Scovassi AI, Singh N, Vaccari M, Vento R, Vondráček J, Wade M, Woodrick J, Bisson WH. Mechanisms of environmental chemicals that enable the cancer hallmark of evasion of growth suppression. Carcinogenesis 2015; 36 Suppl 1:S2-18. [PMID: 26106139 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgv028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of the Halifax Project, this review brings attention to the potential effects of environmental chemicals on important molecular and cellular regulators of the cancer hallmark of evading growth suppression. Specifically, we review the mechanisms by which cancer cells escape the growth-inhibitory signals of p53, retinoblastoma protein, transforming growth factor-beta, gap junctions and contact inhibition. We discuss the effects of selected environmental chemicals on these mechanisms of growth inhibition and cross-reference the effects of these chemicals in other classical cancer hallmarks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Nahta
- Departments of Pharmacology and Hematology & Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine and Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA, Department of Pathology, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, 50134 Florence, Italy, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada, Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA, Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences/Colorado State University/Colorado School of Public Health, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1680, USA, Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA, Instituto de Alta Investigacion, Universidad de Tarapaca, Arica 8097877, Chile, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA, Department of Medicine/Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1914, USA, Center for Environmental Carcinogenesis and Risk Assessment, Environmental Protection and Health Prevention Agency, Bologna 40126, Italy, Departments of Neurosurgery and Biochemistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 980033, USA, Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Polyclinic Plexus, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, 95029 Viagrande, Italy, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Department of Molecular Biology, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084-1501, USA, Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontari
| | - Fahd Al-Mulla
- Department of Pathology, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait
| | | | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Rafaela Andrade-Vieira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Sarah N Bay
- Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dustin G Brown
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences/Colorado State University/Colorado School of Public Health, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1680, USA
| | - Gloria M Calaf
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA, Instituto de Alta Investigacion, Universidad de Tarapaca, Arica 8097877, Chile
| | - Robert C Castellino
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Karine A Cohen-Solal
- Department of Medicine/Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1914, USA
| | - Annamaria Colacci
- Center for Environmental Carcinogenesis and Risk Assessment, Environmental Protection and Health Prevention Agency, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Nichola Cruickshanks
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Biochemistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 980033, USA
| | - Paul Dent
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Biochemistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 980033, USA
| | - Riccardo Di Fiore
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Polyclinic Plexus, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Forte
- Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, 95029 Viagrande, Italy
| | - Gary S Goldberg
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Department of Molecular Biology, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084-1501, USA
| | - Roslida A Hamid
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Serdang, Selangor 43400, Malaysia
| | - Harini Krishnan
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Department of Molecular Biology, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084-1501, USA
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Ahmed Lasfar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 60503, USA
| | - Paola A Marignani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Mediterranean Institute of Oncology, 95029 Viagrande, Italy
| | - Chiara Mondello
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Richard Ponce-Cusi
- Instituto de Alta Investigacion, Universidad de Tarapaca, Arica 8097877, Chile
| | - Jayadev Raju
- Toxicology Research Division, Bureau of Chemical Safety Food Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A0K9, Canada
| | - Debasish Roy
- Department of Natural Science, The City University of New York at Hostos Campus, Bronx, NY 10451, USA
| | - Rabindra Roy
- Molecular Oncology Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20057, USA
| | - Elizabeth P Ryan
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences/Colorado State University/Colorado School of Public Health, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1680, USA
| | - Hosni K Salem
- Urology Dept., kasr Al-Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, El Manial, Cairo 12515, Egypt
| | - A Ivana Scovassi
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Neetu Singh
- Advanced Molecular Science Research Centre, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, UP 226003, India
| | - Monica Vaccari
- Center for Environmental Carcinogenesis and Risk Assessment, Environmental Protection and Health Prevention Agency, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Renza Vento
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Polyclinic Plexus, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Jan Vondráček
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics AS CR, Brno 612 65, Czech Republic
| | - Mark Wade
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Milan 16163, Italy and
| | - Jordan Woodrick
- Molecular Oncology Program, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20057, USA
| | - William H Bisson
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Environmental Health Sciences Center, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
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26
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Meena JK, Cerutti A, Beichler C, Morita Y, Bruhn C, Kumar M, Kraus JM, Speicher MR, Wang ZQ, Kestler HA, d'Adda di Fagagna F, Günes C, Rudolph KL. Telomerase abrogates aneuploidy-induced telomere replication stress, senescence and cell depletion. EMBO J 2015; 34:1371-84. [PMID: 25820263 PMCID: PMC4491997 DOI: 10.15252/embj.201490070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The causal role of aneuploidy in cancer initiation remains under debate since mutations of euploidy-controlling genes reduce cell fitness but aneuploidy strongly associates with human cancers. Telomerase activation allows immortal growth by stabilizing telomere length, but its role in aneuploidy survival has not been characterized. Here, we analyze the response of primary human cells and murine hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to aneuploidy induction and the role of telomeres and the telomerase in this process. The study shows that aneuploidy induces replication stress at telomeres leading to telomeric DNA damage and p53 activation. This results in p53/Rb-dependent, premature senescence of human fibroblast, and in the depletion of hematopoietic cells in telomerase-deficient mice. Endogenous telomerase expression in HSCs and enforced expression of telomerase in human fibroblasts are sufficient to abrogate aneuploidy-induced replication stress at telomeres and the consequent induction of premature senescence and hematopoietic cell depletion. Together, these results identify telomerase as an aneuploidy survival factor in mammalian cells based on its capacity to alleviate telomere replication stress in response to aneuploidy induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra K Meena
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany
| | - Aurora Cerutti
- IFOM Foundation-FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Yohei Morita
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany
| | - Christopher Bruhn
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Research, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johann M Kraus
- Medical Systems Biology Unit, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany
| | - Hans A Kestler
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany Medical Systems Biology Unit, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabrizio d'Adda di Fagagna
- IFOM Foundation-FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, Milan, Italy Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cagatay Günes
- Leibniz Institute of Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute e.V., Jena, Germany
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Pernin V, Kirova Y, Campana F. Radiotherapy for breast cancer and erythrokeratodermia variabilis. Cancer Radiother 2014; 18:767-9. [PMID: 25306447 DOI: 10.1016/j.canrad.2014.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We report the first case report indicating that locoregional radiotherapy provide acceptable early and late toxicities in patient with erythrokeratodermia variabilis after 2 years of follow-up. However, preclinical data showing radiation-induced tumor genesis in case of deficiency of some connexins point out the need of a careful surveillance of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Pernin
- Département d'oncologie radiothérapie, Institut Curie, 26, rue d'Ulm, 75248 Paris cedex 05, France
| | - Y Kirova
- Département d'oncologie radiothérapie, Institut Curie, 26, rue d'Ulm, 75248 Paris cedex 05, France.
| | - F Campana
- Département d'oncologie radiothérapie, Institut Curie, 26, rue d'Ulm, 75248 Paris cedex 05, France
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Kelsey L, Katoch P, Ray A, Mitra S, Chakraborty S, Lin MF, Mehta PP. Vitamin D3 regulates the formation and degradation of gap junctions in androgen-responsive human prostate cancer cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106437. [PMID: 25188420 PMCID: PMC4154685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
1α-25(OH)2 vitamin D3 (1-25D), an active hormonal form of Vitamin D3, is a well-known chemopreventive and pro-differentiating agent. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of several prostate cancer cell lines. Gap junctions, formed of proteins called connexins (Cx), are ensembles of cell-cell channels, which permit the exchange of small growth regulatory molecules between adjoining cells. Cell-cell communication mediated by gap junctional channels is an important homeostatic control mechanism for regulating cell growth and differentiation. We have investigated the effect of 1-25D on the formation and degradation of gap junctions in an androgen-responsive prostate cancer cell line, LNCaP, which expresses retrovirally-introduced Cx32. Connexin32 is expressed by the luminal and well-differentiated cells of normal prostate and prostate tumors. Our results document that 1-25D enhances the expression of Cx32 and its subsequent assembly into gap junctions. Our results further show that 1-25D prevents androgen-regulated degradation of Cx32, post-translationally, independent of androgen receptor (AR)-mediated signaling. Finally, our findings document that formation of gap junctions sensitizes Cx32-expressing LNCaP cells to the growth inhibitory effects of 1-25D and alters their morphology. These findings suggest that the growth-inhibitory effects of 1-25D in LNCaP cells may be related to its ability to modulate the assembly of Cx32 into gap junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Kelsey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Parul Katoch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Anuttoma Ray
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Shalini Mitra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Souvik Chakraborty
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Ming-Fong Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Parmender P. Mehta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
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Artesi M, Kroonen J, Bredel M, Nguyen-Khac M, Deprez M, Schoysman L, Poulet C, Chakravarti A, Kim H, Scholtens D, Seute T, Rogister B, Bours V, Robe PA. Connexin 30 expression inhibits growth of human malignant gliomas but protects them against radiation therapy. Neuro Oncol 2014; 17:392-406. [PMID: 25155356 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nou215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastomas remain ominous tumors that almost invariably escape treatment. Connexins are a family of transmembrane, gap junction-forming proteins, some members of which were reported to act as tumor suppressors and to modulate cellular metabolism in response to cytotoxic stress. METHODS We analyzed the copy number and expression of the connexin (Cx)30 gene gap junction beta-6 (GJB6), as well as of its protein immunoreactivity in several public and proprietary repositories of glioblastomas, and their influence on patient survival. We evaluated the effect of the expression of this gap junction protein on the growth, DNA repair and energy metabolism, and treatment resistance of these tumors. RESULTS The GJB6 gene was deleted in 25.8% of 751 analyzed tumors and mutated in 15.8% of 158 tumors. Cx30 immunoreactivity was absent in 28.9% of 145 tumors. Restoration of Cx30 expression in human glioblastoma cells reduced their growth in vitro and as xenografts in the striatum of immunodeficient mice. Cx30 immunoreactivity was, however, found to adversely affect survival in 2 independent retrospective cohorts of glioblastoma patients. Cx30 was found in clonogenic assays to protect glioblastoma cells against radiation-induced mortality and to decrease radiation-induced DNA damage. This radioprotection correlated with a heat shock protein 90-dependent mitochondrial translocation of Cx30 following radiation and an improved ATP production following this genotoxic stress. CONCLUSION These results underline the complex relationship between potential tumor suppressors and treatment resistance in glioblastomas and single out GJB6/Cx30 as a potential biomarker and target for therapeutic intervention in these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Artesi
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Jerome Kroonen
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Markus Bredel
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Minh Nguyen-Khac
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Manuel Deprez
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Laurent Schoysman
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Christophe Poulet
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Arnab Chakravarti
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Hyunsoo Kim
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Denise Scholtens
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Tatjana Seute
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Bernard Rogister
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Vincent Bours
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
| | - Pierre A Robe
- Department of Human Genetics, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.A., J.K., M.N.-K., L.S., C.P., V.B., P.A.R.); Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery and T. and P. Bonhenn Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, University Hospital of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands (J.K., L.S., T.S., P.A.R.); Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (D.S.); Center for Population Health Sciences, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago (D.S.); Division of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (M.D.); Division of Neurobiology, CBIG/GIGA Research Center, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium (B.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Arthur G James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard L. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio (A.C., P.A.R.); Department of Radiation Oncology, Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center and UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama (M.B., H.K.)
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Abstract
SUMMARY Melanoma cells interact with and depend on seemingly normal cells in their tumour microenvironment to allow the acquisition of the hallmarks of solid cancer. In general, there are three types of interaction of melanoma cells with their microenvironment. First, there is bilateral communication between melanoma cells and the stroma, which includes fibroblasts, endothelial cells, immune cells, soluble molecules, and the extracellular matrix. Second, while under normal conditions keratinocytes control localisation and proliferative behaviour of melanocytes in the epidermis, once this balance is disturbed and a melanoma has developed, melanoma cells may take over the control of their epidermal tumour microenvironment. Finally, there are subcompartments within tumours with different microenvironmental milieu defined by their access to oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, different melanoma cells within a tumour face different microenvironments. Interactions between melanoma cells among each other and with the cell types in their microenvironment happen through endocrine and paracrine communication and/or through direct contact via cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, and gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). Connexins have been identified as key molecules for direct cell-cell communication and are also thought to be important for the release of signalling molecules from cells to the microenvironment. In this review we provide an update of the alterations in cell-cell communication in melanoma and the tumour microenvironment associated with melanoma development and progression.
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Sirnes S, Lind GE, Bruun J, Fykerud TA, Mesnil M, Lothe RA, Rivedal E, Kolberg M, Leithe E. Connexins in colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Int J Cancer 2014; 137:1-11. [PMID: 24752574 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The connexins constitute a family of integral membrane proteins that form channels between adjacent cells. These channels are assembled in plasma membrane domains known as gap junctions and enable cells to directly exchange ions and small molecules. Intercellular communication via gap junctions plays important roles in regulating cell growth and differentiation and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. This type of cell communication is often impaired during cancer development, and several members of the connexin protein family have been shown to act as tumor suppressors. Emerging evidence suggests that the connexin protein family has important roles in colorectal cancer development. In the normal colonic epithelial tissue, three connexin isoforms, connexin 26 (Cx26), Cx32 and Cx43, have been shown to be expressed at the protein level. Colorectal cancer development is associated with loss of connexin expression or relocalization of connexins from the plasma membrane to intracellular compartments. Downregulation of connexins in colorectal carcinomas at the transcriptional level involves cancer-specific promoter hypermethylation. Recent studies suggest that Cx43 may constrain growth of colon cancer cells by interfering with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. There is also increasing evidence that the connexins may have potential as prognostic markers in colorectal cancer. This review discusses the role of connexins in colorectal cancer pathogenesis, as well as their potential as prognostic markers and targets in the prevention and treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solveig Sirnes
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Changes in connexin43 expression and localization during pancreatic cancer progression. J Membr Biol 2012; 245:255-62. [PMID: 22729649 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-012-9446-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions and gap junction communication have long been recognized to play roles in tissue organization and remodeling through both cell autonomous and intercellular means. We hypothesized that these processes become dysregulated during pancreas cancer progression. Molecular and histological characterization of the gap junction protein, connexin43, during progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma could yield insight into how these events may contribute to or be modulated during carcinogenesis. In a mouse model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma generated through targeted endogenous expression of Kras(G12D) in the murine pancreas, we examined the evolving expression and localization of connexin43. Overall, connexin43 expression increased over time, and its localization became more widespread. At early stages, connexin43 is found almost exclusively in association with the basolateral membrane of duct cells found in invasive lesions. Connexin43 became increasingly associated with the surrounding stroma over time. Connexin43 phosphorylation was also altered during tumorigenesis, as assessed by migrational changes of the protein in immunoblots. These data suggest a potential role for gap junctions and connexin43 in mediating interactions between and amongst the stromal and epithelial cells in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Kelsey L, Katoch P, Johnson KE, Batra SK, Mehta PP. Retinoids regulate the formation and degradation of gap junctions in androgen-responsive human prostate cancer cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32846. [PMID: 22514600 PMCID: PMC3326013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinoids, the natural or synthetic derivatives of Vitamin A (retinol), are essential for the normal development of prostate and have been shown to modulate prostate cancer progression in vivo as well as to modulate growth of several prostate cancer cell lines. 9-cis-retinoic acid and all-trans-retinoic acid are the two most important metabolites of retinol. Gap junctions, formed of proteins called connexins, are ensembles of intercellular channels that permit the exchange of small growth regulatory molecules between adjoining cells. Gap junctional communication is instrumental in the control of cell growth. We examined the effect of 9-cis-retinoic acid and all-trans retinoic acid on the formation and degradation of gap junctions as well as on junctional communication in an androgen-responsive prostate cancer cell line, LNCaP, which expressed retrovirally introduced connexin32, a connexin expressed by the luminal cells and well-differentiated cells of prostate tumors. Our results showed that 9-cis-retinoic acid and all-trans retinoic acid enhanced the assembly of connexin32 into gap junctions. Our results further showed that 9-cis-retinoic acid and all-trans-retinoic acid prevented androgen-regulated degradation of gap junctions, post-translationally, independent of androgen receptor mediated signaling. Finally, our findings showed that formation of gap junctions sensitized connexin32-expressing LNCaP cells to the growth modifying effects of 9-cis-retinoic acid, all-trans-retinoic acid and androgens. Thus, the effects of retinoids and androgens on growth and the formation and degradation of gap junctions and their function might be related to their ability to modulate prostate growth and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Parmender P. Mehta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
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34
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Ogawa K, Pitchakarn P, Suzuki S, Chewonarin T, Tang M, Takahashi S, Naiki-Ito A, Sato S, Takahashi S, Asamoto M, Shirai T. Silencing of connexin 43 suppresses invasion, migration and lung metastasis of rat hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Sci 2012; 103:860-7. [PMID: 22320152 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2012.02228.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Revised: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 02/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
To reduce cancer mortality, understanding of mechanisms of cancer metastasis is crucial. We have established six rat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines, which exhibit differing metastatic potential to the lung after inoculation into the tail veins of nude mice. In the present experiment, we investigated the process of cell attachment to metastatic sites and possible regulating factors. One hour after inoculation, two of two HCC cell lines with high metastatic potential and one of two HCC cell lines with low metastatic potential exhibited many attached cells in the lung. One day after inoculation, lung metastatic foci were observed only with highly-metastatic cells with elevated connexin 43 (Cx43) expression as assessed by cDNA array analysis. Furthermore, 24 or 48 h after transfection of an siRNA targeting Cx43, in vitro invasion and migration were suppressed by 68% (P < 0.001) and 36% (P < 0.05) compared with control-siRNA transfected cells, despite no differences in cellular morphology, cell proliferation or apoptotic activity. Moreover, the number of metastatic nodules per lung area in nude mice was significantly (P < 0.01) reduced. In conclusion, suppression of Cx43 expression in tumor cells reduced in vitro migration and invasion capacity and in vivo metastatic ability so that Cx43 has potential as a molecular target for prevention of cancer metastasis with Cx43 overexpressing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumiko Ogawa
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Tumor Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.
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35
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Fukumasu H, Avanzo JL, Sanches DS, Mennecier G, Mori CMC, Dagli MLZ. Higher susceptibility of spontaneous and NNK-induced lung neoplasms in connexin 43 deficient CD1 × AJ F1 mice: paradoxical expression of connexin 43 during lung carcinogenesis. Mol Carcinog 2012; 52:497-506. [PMID: 22344786 DOI: 10.1002/mc.21884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are proteins that form the communicating gap junctions, and reportedly have a role in carcinogenesis. Here, we evaluated the importance of Connexin43 (Cx43) in spontaneous and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)-induced lung carcinogenesis. Male wild-type (Cx43(+/+) ) and hemizygote (Cx43(+/-) ) CD1 × AJ F1 mice were injected with NNK or saline. After 60 weeks mice were euthanized; lung nodules were counted, measured, and fixed in formalin or snap frozen. Immunohistochemistry for Cx43 and Beta-catenin (β-catenin) was performed and Cx43 mRNA expression was evaluated by real-time PCR. Cx43 deletion significantly increased the incidence and number of spontaneous nodules in the CD1 × AJ F1 mice and the number of gross lesions and the aggressiveness of lesions in NNK-treated mice. Cx43 mRNA increased significantly and was correlated with the aggressiveness of tumors, although lesions from Cx43(+/-) mice expressed less Cx43 RNAm than their counterparts. Lung parenchyma presented a Cx43 immunostaining pattern with points or plaques between cells. In hyperplasias and adenomas, Cx43 was found in the membrane and in cytoplasm. Malignant lesions presented increased Cx43 in cytoplasm and a few membrane spots of immunostaining. β-catenin was weakly expressed in lung parenchyma. Though hyperplasias presented some cells with nuclear β-catenin, NNK-induced tumors contained a higher number of this staining pattern. Also, no difference in β-catenin occurred between both genotypes independently of the histological grade. In summary, our results indicate that Cx43 acts as a tumor suppressor gene in early lung tumorigenesis and loses this property in advanced carcinogenesis. Therefore, Cxs are better classified as conditional tumor suppressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidge Fukumasu
- Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Oncology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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36
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Potolicchio I, Cigliola V, Velazquez-Garcia S, Klee P, Valjevac A, Kapic D, Cosovic E, Lepara O, Hadzovic-Dzuvo A, Mornjacovic Z, Meda P. Connexin-dependent signaling in neuro-hormonal systems. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1818:1919-36. [PMID: 22001400 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2011] [Revised: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The advent of multicellular organisms was accompanied by the development of short- and long-range chemical signalling systems, including those provided by the nervous and endocrine systems. In turn, the cells of these two systems have developed mechanisms for interacting with both adjacent and distant cells. With evolution, such mechanisms have diversified to become integrated in a complex regulatory network, whereby individual endocrine and neuro-endocrine cells sense the state of activity of their neighbors and, accordingly, regulate their own level of functioning. A consistent feature of this network is the expression of connexin-made channels between the (neuro)hormone-producing cells of all endocrine glands and secretory regions of the central nervous system so far investigated in vertebrates. This review summarizes the distribution of connexins in the mammalian (neuro)endocrine systems, and what we know about the participation of these proteins on hormone secretion, the life of the producing cells, and the action of (neuro)hormones on specific targets. The data gathered since the last reviews on the topic are summarized, with particular emphasis on the roles of Cx36 in the function of the insulin-producing beta cells of the endocrine pancreas, and of Cx40 in that of the renin-producing juxta-glomerular epithelioid cells of the kidney cortex. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Potolicchio
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical School, Switzerland
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37
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Colomer C, Martin AO, Desarménien MG, Guérineau NC. Gap junction-mediated intercellular communication in the adrenal medulla: an additional ingredient of stimulus-secretion coupling regulation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1818:1937-51. [PMID: 21839720 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2011] [Revised: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The traditional understanding of stimulus-secretion coupling in adrenal neuroendocrine chromaffin cells states that catecholamines are released upon trans-synaptic sympathetic stimulation mediated by acetylcholine released from the splanchnic nerve terminals. Although this statement remains largely true, it deserves to be tempered. In addition to its neurogenic control, catecholamine secretion also depends on a local gap junction-mediated communication between chromaffin cells. We review here the insights gained since the first description of gap junctions in the adrenal medullary tissue. Adrenal stimulus-secretion coupling now appears far more intricate than was previously envisioned and its deciphering represents a challenge for neurobiologists engaged in the study of the regulation of neuroendocrine secretion. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Colomer
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, F-34000 Montpellier, France
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38
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Non-channel functions of connexins in cell growth and cell death. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1818:2002-8. [PMID: 21718687 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Revised: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cellular communication mediated by gap junction channels and hemichannels, both composed of connexin proteins, constitutes two acknowledged regulatory platforms in the accomplishment of tissue homeostasis. In recent years, an abundance of reports has been published indicating functions for connexin proteins in the control of the cellular life cycle that occur independently of their channel activities. This has yet been most exemplified in the context of cell growth and cell death, and is therefore as such addressed in the current paper. Specific attention is hereby paid to the molecular mechanisms that underpin the cellular non-channel roles of connexin proteins, namely the alteration of the expression of tissue homeostasis determinants and the physical interaction with cell growth and cell death regulators. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.
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39
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Upham BL. Role of integrative signaling through gap junctions in toxicology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; Chapter 2:Unit2.18. [PMID: 21400682 DOI: 10.1002/0471140856.tx0218s47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) plays a central role in coordinating signal-transduction pathways that control gene expression inside of cells with those of neighboring cells in maintaining the homeostasis of a tissue. The normal homeostatic set point of gap junctions within tissues is in an open state, and although transient closure of gap junctions in response to mitogenic effectors is normal, chronic closure of channels by continuous exposure to environmental and food-borne contaminants can result in adverse health effects such as cancer, teratogenesis, reproductive dysfunction, neuropathies, and cardiac arrhythmias. GJIC is the primary means of integrating signal transduction pathways controlling gene expression between contiguous cells. Thus, bioassay systems that can measure GJIC offer a central, more biosystems approach to assessing the potential for toxicants to epigenetically alter gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad L Upham
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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40
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PI3K/Akt signaling is involved in the disruption of gap junctional communication caused by v-Src and TNF-α. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 400:230-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Accepted: 08/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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41
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Vinken M, Decrock E, De Vuyst E, Ponsaerts R, D'hondt C, Bultynck G, Ceelen L, Vanhaecke T, Leybaert L, Rogiers V. Connexins: sensors and regulators of cell cycling. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2010; 1815:13-25. [PMID: 20801193 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2010.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Revised: 08/18/2010] [Accepted: 08/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is nowadays well established that gap junctions are critical gatekeepers of cell proliferation, by controlling the intercellular exchange of essential growth regulators. In recent years, however, it has become clear that the picture is not as simple as originally anticipated, as structural precursors of gap junctions can affect cell cycling by performing actions not related to gap junctional intercellular communication. Indeed, connexin hemichannels also foresee a pathway for cell growth communication, albeit between the intracellular compartment and the extracellular environment, while connexin proteins as such can directly or indirectly influence the production of cell cycle regulators independently of their channel activities. Furthermore, a novel set of connexin-like proteins, the pannexins, have lately joined in as regulators of the cell proliferation process, which they can affect as either single units or as channel entities. In the current paper, these multifaceted aspects of connexin-related signalling in cell cycling are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium.
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42
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Abstract
The idea that the gap junction family of proteins, connexins, are tumour suppressors has been widely supported through numerous cancer models. However, the paradigm that connexins and enhanced gap junctional intercellular communication is of universal benefit by restricting tumour growth has been challenged by more recent evidence that suggests a role for connexins in facilitating tumour progression and metastasis. Therefore, connexins might be better classified as conditional tumour suppressors that modulate cell proliferation, as well as adhesion and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian C Naus
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T-1Z3, Canada.
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43
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Leithe E, Kjenseth A, Bruun J, Sirnes S, Rivedal E. Inhibition of connexin 43 gap junction channels by the endocrine disruptor ioxynil. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2010; 247:10-7. [PMID: 20510257 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2010.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular plasma membrane domains containing channels that mediate transport of ions, metabolites and small signaling molecules between adjacent cells. Gap junctions play important roles in a variety of cellular processes, including regulation of cell growth and differentiation, maintenance of tissue homeostasis and embryogenesis. The constituents of gap junction channels are a family of trans-membrane proteins called connexins, of which the best-studied is connexin 43. Connexin 43 functions as a tumor suppressor protein in various tissue types and is frequently dysregulated in human cancers. The pesticide ioxynil has previously been shown to act as an endocrine disrupting chemical and has multiple effects on the thyroid axis. Furthermore, both ioxynil and its derivative ioxynil octanoate have been reported to induce tumors in animal bioassays. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the possible tumorigenic effects of these compounds are unknown. In the present study we show that ioxynil and ioxynil octanoate are strong inhibitors of connexin 43 gap junction channels. Both compounds induced rapid loss of connexin 43 gap junctions at the plasma membrane and increased connexin 43 degradation. Ioxynil octanoate, but not ioxynil, was found to be a strong activator of ERK1/2. The compounds also had different effects on the phosphorylation status of connexin 43. Taken together, the data show that ioxynil and ioxynil octanoate are potent inhibitors of intercellular communication via gap junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Leithe
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital and Centre for Cancer Biomedicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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44
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Ramirez AB, Loch CM, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Wang X, Wayner EA, Sargent JE, Sibani S, Hainsworth E, Mendoza EA, Eugene R, Labaer J, Urban ND, McIntosh MW, Lampe PD. Use of a single-chain antibody library for ovarian cancer biomarker discovery. Mol Cell Proteomics 2010; 9:1449-60. [PMID: 20467042 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m900496-mcp200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of novel early detection biomarkers of disease could offer one of the best approaches to decrease the morbidity and mortality of ovarian and other cancers. We report on the use of a single-chain variable fragment antibody library for screening ovarian serum to find novel biomarkers for the detection of cancer. We alternately panned the library with ovarian cancer and disease-free control sera to make a sublibrary of antibodies that bind proteins differentially expressed in cancer. This sublibrary was printed on antibody microarrays that were incubated with labeled serum from multiple sets of cancer patients and controls. The antibodies that performed best at discriminating disease status were selected, and their cognate antigens were identified using a functional protein microarray. Overexpression of some of these antigens was observed in cancer serum, tumor proximal fluid, and cancer tissue via dot blot and immunohistochemical staining. Thus, our use of recombinant antibody microarrays for unbiased discovery found targets for ovarian cancer detection in multiple sample sets, supporting their further study for disease diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo B Ramirez
- Molecular Diagnostics Program, Public Health Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
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45
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Langlois S, Cowan KN, Shao Q, Cowan BJ, Laird DW. The tumor-suppressive function of Connexin43 in keratinocytes is mediated in part via interaction with caveolin-1. Cancer Res 2010; 70:4222-32. [PMID: 20406988 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-3281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) is known to have tumor-suppressive effects, but the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. In keratinocytes, we previously showed that the COOH-terminal domain of Cx43 directly interacts with the tumor suppressor Cav-1. We now show that rat epidermal keratinocytes (REK) that are reduced in Cx43 present features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and are more invasive than their control counterparts, whereas overexpression of Cx43 inhibited the 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA)- and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced invasive properties. Carbenoxolone did not alter the inhibitory effect of Cx43 against TPA- and EGF-induced cell invasion, indicating the involvement of a gap junctional intercellular communication-independent mechanism. Interestingly, the association of Cx43 with Cav-1 was found to be reduced after TPA and EGF treatment. Accordingly, the colocalization of Cx43 with Cav-1 was diminished in cells from a human epidermal squamous cell carcinoma, as well as in sections from human keratinocyte tumors, suggesting that Cx43/Cav-1 interaction plays a protective role against keratinocyte transformation. As opposed to cells that overexpress Cx43-GFP, invasion could be induced in rat epidermal keratinocytes that overexpressed a GFP-tagged truncated mutant of Cx43 (Delta244-GFP) that we previously showed not to interact with Cav-1, as well as in cells that overexpressed Cx43-GFP but were reduced in Cav-1. Our data show that Cx43 possesses tumor-suppressive properties in keratinocytes and provide the first evidence that the Cx43/Cav-1 interaction is altered in keratinocyte transformation processes, as well as in human keratinocyte tumors, and that this association might play a role in Cx43-mediated tumor suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Langlois
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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46
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Wu B, Zhang Y, Zhao D, Zhang X, Kong Z, Cheng S. Gene expression profiles in liver of mouse after chronic exposure to drinking water. J Appl Toxicol 2009; 29:569-77. [DOI: 10.1002/jat.1441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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47
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Vinken M, Doktorova T, Decrock E, Leybaert L, Vanhaecke T, Rogiers V. Gap junctional intercellular communication as a target for liver toxicity and carcinogenicity. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2009; 44:201-22. [PMID: 19635038 DOI: 10.1080/10409230903061215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Direct communication between hepatocytes, mediated by gap junctions, constitutes a major regulatory platform in the control of liver homeostasis, ranging from hepatocellular proliferation to hepatocyte cell death. Inherent to this pivotal task, gap junction functionality is frequently disrupted upon impairment of the homeostatic balance, as occurs during liver toxicity and carcinogenicity. In the present paper, the deleterious effects of a number of chemical and biological toxic compounds on hepatic gap junctions are discussed, including environmental pollutants, biological toxins, organic solvents, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, peroxides, metals and phthalates. Particular attention is paid to the molecular mechanisms that underlie the abrogation of gap junction functionality. Since hepatic gap junctions are specifically targeted by tumor promoters and epigenetic carcinogens, both in vivo and in vitro, inhibition of gap junction functionality is considered as a suitable indicator for the detection of nongenotoxic hepatocarcinogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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48
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Colomer C, Desarménien MG, Guérineau NC. Revisiting the stimulus-secretion coupling in the adrenal medulla: role of gap junction-mediated intercellular communication. Mol Neurobiol 2009; 40:87-100. [PMID: 19444654 PMCID: PMC2879034 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-009-8073-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 04/28/2009] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The current view of stimulation-secretion coupling in adrenal neuroendocrine chromaffin cells holds that catecholamines are released upon transsynaptic sympathetic stimulation mediated by acetylcholine released from the splanchnic nerve terminals. However, this traditional vertical scheme would merit to be revisited in the light of recent data. Although electrical discharges invading the splanchnic nerve endings are the major physiological stimulus to trigger catecholamine release in vivo, growing evidence indicates that intercellular chromaffin cell communication mediated by gap junctions represents an additional route by which biological signals (electrical activity, changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration,...) propagate between adjacent cells and trigger subsequent catecholamine exocytosis. Accordingly, it has been proposed that gap junctional communication efficiently helps synapses to lead chromaffin cell function and, in particular, hormone secretion. The experimental clues supporting this hypothesis are presented and discussed with regards to both interaction with the excitatory cholinergic synaptic transmission and physiopathology of the adrenal medulla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Colomer
- IGF, Institut de génomique fonctionnelle
CNRS : UMR5203INSERM : U661Université Montpellier IUniversité Montpellier II - Sciences et Techniques du Languedoc141, Rue de la Cardonille 34094 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 5,FR
| | - Michel G. Desarménien
- IGF, Institut de génomique fonctionnelle
CNRS : UMR5203INSERM : U661Université Montpellier IUniversité Montpellier II - Sciences et Techniques du Languedoc141, Rue de la Cardonille 34094 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 5,FR
| | - Nathalie C. Guérineau
- IGF, Institut de génomique fonctionnelle
CNRS : UMR5203INSERM : U661Université Montpellier IUniversité Montpellier II - Sciences et Techniques du Languedoc141, Rue de la Cardonille 34094 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 5,FR
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49
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Romanenko A, Kakehashi A, Morimura K, Wanibuchi H, Wei M, Vozianov A, Fukushima S. Urinary bladder carcinogenesis induced by chronic exposure to persistent low-dose ionizing radiation after Chernobyl accident. Carcinogenesis 2009; 30:1821-31. [PMID: 19643821 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgp193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary bladder urothelium as well as cells in the microenvironment of lamina propria (endothelial elements, fibroblasts and lymphocytes) demonstrate a number of responses to chronic persistent long-term, low-dose ionizing radiation (IR). Thus, oxidative stress occurs, accompanied by up-regulation of at least two signaling pathways (p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-kappaB cascades) and activation of growth factor receptors, in the bladder urothelium of people living in Cesium 137-contaminated areas of Ukraine, resulting in chronic inflammation and the development of proliferative atypical cystitis, so-called Chernobyl cystitis, which is considered a possible pre-neoplastic condition in humans. Furthermore, significant alterations in regulation of cell cycle transitions are associated with increased cell proliferation, along with up-regulated ubiquitination and sumoylation processes as well as inefficient DNA repair (base and nucleotide excision repair pathways) in the affected urothelium. The microenvironmental changes induced by chronic long-term, low-dose IR also appear to promote angiogenesis and remodeling of the extracellular matrix that could facilitate invasion as well as progression of pre-existing initiated cells to malignancy. Based on the available findings, new strategies have been developed for predicting and treatment of Chernobyl cystitis-a first step in urinary bladder carcinogenesis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Romanenko
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Urology, Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, 9a, Yu. Kotzubinsky Street, 04053 Kiev, Ukraine
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50
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Bláha L, Babica P, Hilscherová K, Upham BL. Inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases by cyanobacterial extracts--indications of novel tumor-promoting cyanotoxins? Toxicon 2009; 55:126-34. [PMID: 19619572 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2009.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2009] [Revised: 07/09/2009] [Accepted: 07/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Toxicity and liver tumor promotion of cyanotoxins microcystins have been extensively studied. However, recent studies document that other metabolites present in the complex cyanobacterial water blooms may also have adverse health effects. In this study we used rat liver epithelial stem-like cells (WB-F344) to examine the effects of cyanobacterial extracts on two established markers of tumor promotion, inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) - ERK1/2. Extracts of cyanobacteria (laboratory cultures of Microcystis aeruginosa and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae and water blooms dominated by these species) inhibited GJIC and activated MAPKs in a dose-dependent manner (effective concentrations ranging 0.5-5mgd.w./mL). Effects were independent of the microcystin content and the strongest responses were elicited by the extracts of Aphanizomenon sp. Neither pure microcystin-LR nor cylindrospermopsin inhibited GJIC or activated MAPKs. Modulations of GJIC and MAPKs appeared to be specific to cyanobacterial extracts since extracts from green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, heterotrophic bacterium Klebsiella terrigena, and isolated bacterial lipopolysaccharides had no comparable effects. Our study provides the first evidence on the existence of unknown cyanobacterial toxic metabolites that affect in vitro biomarkers of tumor promotion, i.e. inhibition of GJIC and activation of MAPKs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludĕk Bláha
- Institute of Botany, Academy of Sciences, Lidická 25/27, CZ65720 Brno, Czech Republic
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