1
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Jing T, Xu X, Wu C, Wei D, Yuan L, Huang Y, Liu Y, Wang B. POH1 facilitates pancreatic carcinogenesis through MYC-driven acinar-to-ductal metaplasia and is a potential therapeutic target. Cancer Lett 2023; 577:216444. [PMID: 37844756 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic acinar cells undergo acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), a necessary process for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) initiation. However, the regulatory role of POH1, a deubiquitinase linked to several types of cancer, in ADM and PDAC is unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of POH1 in ADM and PDAC using murine models. Our findings suggest that pancreatic-specific deletion of Poh1 alleles attenuates ADM and impairs pancreatic carcinogenesis, improving murine survival. Mechanistically, POH1 deubiquitinates and stabilizes the MYC protein, which potentiates ADM and PDAC. Furthermore, POH1 is highly expressed in PDAC samples, and clinical evidence establishes a positive correlation between aberrantly expressed POH1 and poor prognosis in PDAC patients. Targeting POH1 with a specific small-molecule inhibitor significantly reduces pancreatic tumor formation, highlighting POH1 as a promising therapeutic target for PDAC treatment. Overall, POH1-mediated MYC deubiquitination is crucial for ADM and PDAC onset, and targeting POH1 could be an effective strategy for PDAC treatment, offering new avenues for PDAC targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaoli Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chengsi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Dianhui Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lili Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yiwen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yizhen Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Boshi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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2
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Han J, Wu M, Liu Z. Dysregulation in IFN-γ signaling and response: the barricade to tumor immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1190333. [PMID: 37275859 PMCID: PMC10233742 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1190333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) has been identified as a crucial factor in determining the responsiveness to immunotherapy. Produced primarily by natural killer (NK) and T cells, IFN-γ promotes activation, maturation, proliferation, cytokine expression, and effector function in immune cells, while simultaneously inducing antigen presentation, growth arrest, and apoptosis in tumor cells. However, tumor cells can hijack the IFN-γ signaling pathway to mount IFN-γ resistance: rather than increasing antigenicity and succumbing to death, tumor cells acquire stemness characteristics and express immunosuppressive molecules to defend against antitumor immunity. In this review, we summarize the potential mechanisms of IFN-γ resistance occurring at two critical stages: disrupted signal transduction along the IFNG/IFNGR/JAK/STAT pathway, or preferential expression of specific interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Elucidating the molecular mechanisms through which tumor cells develop IFN-γ resistance help identify promising therapeutic targets to improve immunotherapy, with broad application value in conjugation with targeted, antibody or cellular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiashu Han
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (CAMS), Beijing, China
| | - Mengwei Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (CAMS), Beijing, China
| | - Ziwen Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (CAMS), Beijing, China
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3
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Ghosh S, Mitra P, Saha U, Nandi R, Jena S, Ghosh A, Roy SS, Acharya M, Biswas NK, Singh S. NOTCH pathway inactivation reprograms stem-like oral cancer cells to JAK-STAT dependent state and provides the opportunity of synthetic lethality. Transl Oncol 2023; 32:101669. [PMID: 37054548 PMCID: PMC10122064 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have recently provided the evidence of interconvertible cellular states, driving non-genetic heterogeneity among stem-like oral cancer cells (oral-SLCCs). Here, NOTCH pathway-activity status is explored as one of the possible mechanisms behind this stochastic plasticity. METHODS Oral-SLCCs were enriched in 3D-spheroids. Constitutively-active and inactive status of NOTCH pathway was achieved by genetic or pharmacological approaches. RNA sequencing and real-time PCR was performed for gene expression studies. in vitro cytotoxicity assessments were performed by AlamarBlue assay and in vivo effects were studied by xenograft growth in zebrafish embryo. RESULTS We have observed stochastic plasticity in oral-SLCCs, spontaneously maintaining both NOTCH-active and inactive states. While cisplatin refraction was associated with post-treatment adaptation to the active-state of NOTCH pathway, oral-SLCCs with inactive NOTCH pathway status showed aggressive tumor growth and poor prognosis. RNAseq analysis clearly suggested the upregulation of JAK-STAT pathway in NOTCH pathway-inactive subset. The 3D-spheroids with lower NOTCH-activity status displayed significantly higher sensitivity to JAK-selective drugs, Ruxolitinib or Tofacitinib or siRNA mediated downregulation of tested partners STAT3/4. Oral-SLCCs were programmed to adapt the inactive status of NOTCH pathway by exposing to γ-secretase inhibitors, LY411575 or RO4929097, followed by targeting with JAK-inhibitors, Ruxolitinib or Tofacitinib. This approach resulted in a very significant inhibition in viability of 3D-spheroids as well as xenograft initiation in Zebrafish embryos. CONCLUSION Study revealed for the first time that NOTCH pathway-inactive state exhibit activation of JAK-STAT pathways, as synthetic lethal pair. Therefore, co-inhibition of these pathway may serve as novel therapeutic strategy against aggressive oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhashis Ghosh
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Paromita Mitra
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Uday Saha
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Rimpa Nandi
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Subhashree Jena
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Arnab Ghosh
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Shantanu Saha Roy
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Moulinath Acharya
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Nidhan Kumar Biswas
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India
| | - Sandeep Singh
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal 741251, India.
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4
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Chung WC, Xu K. Notch signaling pathway in pancreatic tumorigenesis. Adv Cancer Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
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5
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Yang H, Messina-Pacheco J, Corredor ALG, Gregorieff A, Liu JL, Nehme A, Najafabadi HS, Riazalhosseini Y, Gao B, Gao ZH. An integrated model of acinar to ductal metaplasia-related N7-methyladenosine regulators predicts prognosis and immunotherapy in pancreatic carcinoma based on digital spatial profiling. Front Immunol 2022; 13:961457. [PMID: 35979350 PMCID: PMC9377277 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.961457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM) is a recently recognized, yet less well-studied, precursor lesion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) developed in the setting of chronic pancreatitis. Through digital spatial mRNA profiling, we compared ADM and adjacent PDAC tissues from patient samples to unveil the bridging genes during the malignant transformation of pancreatitis. By comparing the bridging genes with the 7-methylguanosine (m7G)-seq dataset, we screened 19 m7G methylation genes for a subsequent large sample analysis. We constructed the “m7G score” model based on the RNA-seq data for pancreatic cancer in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Tumors with a high m7G score were characterized by increased immune cell infiltration, increased genomic instability, higher response rate to combined immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and overall poor survival. These findings indicate that the m7G score is associated with tumor invasiveness, immune cell infiltration, ICI treatment response, and overall patients’ survival. We also identified FN1 and ITGB1 as core genes in the m7Gscore model, which affect immune cell infiltration and genomic instability not only in pancreatic cancer but also in pan-cancer. FN1 and ITGB1 can inhibit immune T cell activition by upregulation of macrophages and neutrophils, thereby leading to immune escape of pancreatic cancer cells and reducing the response rate of ICI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Julia Messina-Pacheco
- Department of Pathology, McGill University and the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Andrea Liliam Gomez Corredor
- Department of Pathology, McGill University and the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alex Gregorieff
- Department of Pathology, McGill University and the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jun-li Liu
- MeDic Program, The Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, & Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ali Nehme
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Hamed S. Najafabadi
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Yasser Riazalhosseini
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill University Genome Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zu-hua Gao, ; Bo Gao,
| | - Zu-hua Gao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, British Columbia (BC) Cancer Research Center, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Zu-hua Gao, ; Bo Gao,
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6
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Tulip IJ, Kim SO, Kim EJ, Kim J, Lee JY, Kim H, Kim SC. Combined inhibition of STAT and Notch signalling effectively suppresses tumourigenesis by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, migration and invasion in glioblastoma cells. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2021; 25:161-170. [PMID: 34262659 PMCID: PMC8253205 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2021.1942983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain cancer and this is due to cancer cells being apoptosis-resistant and having increased cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis properties. Previous studies have indicated both STAT and Notch pathways being important for initiation and progression in GBM. In this work, we first studied the effects of STAT inhibitors on Notch signalling using small molecule STAT inhibitors. It was observed that STAT inhibitors surprisingly activated Notch signalling by inducing NICD and Notch target genes in GBM cells. Thus, we aimed to combine STAT inhibitor treatment with a Notch pathway inhibitor and study effects on GBM tumourigenesis. STAT5 inhibitor (Pimozide) and STAT3 inhibitor (S3I-201) were individually used in combination with γ-secretase inhibitor (DAPT), an inhibitor of Notch signalling, in a panel of GBM cells for cell proliferation and epithelial plasticity changes. Compared with single-agent treatments, combinatorial treatments with the STAT and Notch inhibitors significantly increased apoptosis in the treated cells, impairing cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. These findings suggest that concurrent blocking of STAT and Notch signalling pathways could provide added therapeutic benefit for the treatment of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israt Jahan Tulip
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Ok Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaebong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Yong Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunggee Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Chan Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
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7
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Peisl S, Mellenthin C, Vignot L, Gonelle-Gispert C, Bühler L, Egger B. Therapeutic targeting of STAT3 pathways in pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A systematic review of clinical and preclinical literature. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252397. [PMID: 34138876 PMCID: PMC8211286 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is a highly lethal disease with increasing incidence. Due to high resistance, chemo/radiotherapy has limited success in pancreatic cancer and only marginally prolongs patient survival. Therefore, novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets are needed. In the present review, we performed a comprehensive summary of therapeutic approaches targeting the GP130/JAK/STAT3 pathway. Methods We systematically reviewed the PubMed and Embase databases for preclinical and clinical studies, from inception to October 4, 2020, on drugs targeting the GP130/JAK/STAT3 pathway. Bias assessments and qualitative analyses were performed. Results Twenty-five preclinical and nine clinical trials were included in the review. All preclinical studies reported a favorable outcome in terms of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression. Futhermore, drugs targeting the GP130/JAK/STAT3 pathway were shown to be efficient chemosensitizers. However, high publication bias was assumed. In the clinical setting, bazedoxifene and itacitinib improved patient outcomes. Conclusion Preclinical studies strongly suggest significant efficacy of drugs targeting GP130/JAK/STAT3 in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and that these molecules are effective chemosensitizers. Though only a few trials have shown the efficacy in a clinical setting, the STAT3 pathway remains a promising drug target for future treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and may help overcome chemotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Peisl
- Department of Surgery, HFR Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Lucie Vignot
- Department of Oncology, HFR Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Gonelle-Gispert
- Surgical Research Unit, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Leo Bühler
- Department of Surgery, HFR Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Egger
- Department of Surgery, HFR Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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8
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Barman S, Fatima I, Singh AB, Dhawan P. Pancreatic Cancer and Therapy: Role and Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094765. [PMID: 33946266 PMCID: PMC8124621 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant improvements in clinical management, pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the deadliest cancer types, as it is prone to late detection with extreme metastatic properties. The recent findings that pancreatic cancer stem cells (PaCSCs) contribute to the tumorigenesis, progression, and chemoresistance have offered significant insight into the cancer malignancy and development of precise therapies. However, the heterogeneity of cancer and signaling pathways that regulate PC have posed limitations in the effective targeting of the PaCSCs. In this regard, the role for K-RAS, TP53, Transforming Growth Factor-β, hedgehog, Wnt and Notch and other signaling pathways in PC progression is well documented. In this review, we discuss the role of PaCSCs, the underlying molecular and signaling pathways that help promote pancreatic cancer development and metastasis with a specific focus on the regulation of PaCSCs. We also discuss the therapeutic approaches that target different PaCSCs, intricate mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities to eliminate heterogeneous PaCSCs populations in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita Barman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Iram Fatima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Amar B. Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Punita Dhawan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; (S.B.); (I.F.); (A.B.S.)
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Buffet Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
- Correspondence:
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9
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Vera L, Garcia-Olloqui P, Petri E, Viñado AC, Valera PS, Blasco-Iturri Z, Calvo IA, Cenzano I, Ruppert C, Zulueta JJ, Prosper F, Saez B, Pardo-Saganta A. Notch3 Deficiency Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis and Impedes Lung-Function Decline. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2021; 64:465-476. [PMID: 33493092 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2020-0516oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast activation includes differentiation to myofibroblasts and is a key feature of organ fibrosis. The Notch pathway has been involved in myofibroblast differentiation in several tissues, including the lung. Here, we identify a subset of collagen-expressing cells in the lung that exhibit Notch3 activity at homeostasis. After injury, this activation increases, being found in αSMA-expressing myofibroblasts in the mouse and human fibrotic lung. Although previous studies suggest a contribution of Notch3 in stromal activation, in vivo evidence of the role of Notch3 in lung fibrosis remains unknown. In this study, we examine the effects of Notch3 deletion in pulmonary fibrosis and demonstrate that Notch3-deficient lungs are protected from lung injury with significantly reduced collagen deposition after bleomycin administration. The induction of profibrotic genes is reduced in bleomycin-treated Notch3-knockout lungs that consistently present fewer αSMA-positive myofibroblasts. As a result, the volume of healthy lung tissue is higher and lung function is improved in the absence of Notch3. Using in vitro cultures of lung primary fibroblasts, we confirmed that Notch3 participates in their survival and differentiation. Thus, Notch3 deficiency mitigates the development of lung fibrosis because of its role in mediating fibroblast activation. Our findings reveal a previously unidentified mechanism underlying lung fibrogenesis and provide a potential novel therapeutic approach to target pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eva Petri
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and
| | - Ana Cristina Viñado
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Applied Medical Research, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Zuriñe Blasco-Iturri
- Molecular and Functional Biomarkers Lab, Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC BiomaGUNE), San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Isabel A Calvo
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Applied Medical Research, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Itziar Cenzano
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Applied Medical Research, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Clemens Ruppert
- Biobank of the Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center and the European Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Registry, German Center for Lung Research, Giessen, Germany; and
| | - Javier J Zulueta
- Pulmonary Department, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Applied Medical Research, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Borja Saez
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Center for Applied Medical Research, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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10
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Murphy SJ, Levy MJ, Smadbeck JB, Karagouga G, McCune AF, Harris FR, Udell JB, Johnson SH, Kerr SE, Cheville JC, Kipp BR, Vasmatzis G, Gleeson FC. Theragnostic chromosomal rearrangements in treatment-naive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas obtained via endoscopic ultrasound. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:4110-4123. [PMID: 33704908 PMCID: PMC8051743 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A crucial mutational mechanism in malignancy is structural variation, in which chromosomal rearrangements alter gene functions that drive cancer progression. Herein, the presence and pattern of structural variations were investigated in twelve prospectively acquired treatment‐naïve pancreatic cancers specimens obtained via endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). In many patients, this diagnostic biopsy procedure and specimen is the only opportunity to identify somatic clinically relevant actionable alterations that may impact their care and outcome. Specialized mate pair sequencing (MPseq) provided genome‐wide structural variance analysis (SVA) with a view to identifying prognostic markers and possible therapeutic targets. MPseq was successfully performed on all specimens, identifying highly rearranged genomes with complete SVA on all specimens with > 20% tumour content. SVA identified chimeric fusion proteins and potentially immunogenic readthrough transcripts, change of function truncations, gains and losses of key genes linked to tumour progression. Complex localized rearrangements, termed chromoanagenesis, with broad pattern heterogeneity were observed in 10 (83%) specimens, impacting multiple genes with diverse cellular functions that could influence theragnostic evaluation and responsiveness to immunotherapy regimens. This study indicates that genome‐wide MPseq can be successfully performed on very limited clinically EUS obtained specimens for chromosomal rearrangement detection and potential theragnostic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Murphy
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael J Levy
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James B Smadbeck
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Giannoula Karagouga
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alexa F McCune
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Faye R Harris
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Julia B Udell
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sarah H Johnson
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sarah E Kerr
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - John C Cheville
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Benjamin R Kipp
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - George Vasmatzis
- Biomarker Discovery Laboratory, Centre for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ferga C Gleeson
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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11
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Yang J, Lin P, Yang M, Liu W, Fu X, Liu D, Tao L, Huo Y, Zhang J, Hua R, Zhang Z, Li Y, Wang L, Xue J, Li H, Sun Y. Integrated genomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals unique characteristics of hepatic metastases and pro-metastatic role of complement C1q in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Genome Biol 2021; 22:4. [PMID: 33397441 PMCID: PMC7780398 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-020-02222-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers due to its high metastasis rate in the liver. However, little is known about the molecular features of hepatic metastases due to difficulty in obtaining fresh tissues and low tumor cellularity. RESULTS We conduct exome sequencing and RNA sequencing for synchronous surgically resected primary tumors and the paired hepatic metastases from 17 hepatic oligometastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and validate our findings in specimens from 35 of such cases. The comprehensive analysis of somatic mutations, copy number alterations, and gene expressions show high similarity between primary tumors and hepatic metastases. However, hepatic metastases also show unique characteristics, such as a higher degree of 3p21.1 loss, stronger abilities of proliferation, downregulation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition activity, and metabolic rewiring. More interesting, altered tumor microenvironments are observed in hepatic metastases, especially a higher proportion of tumor infiltrating M2 macrophage and upregulation of complement cascade. Further experiments demonstrate that expression of C1q increases in primary tumors and hepatic metastases, C1q is mainly produced by M2 macrophage, and C1q promotes migration and invasion of PDAC cells. CONCLUSION Taken together, we find potential factors that contribute to different stages of PDAC metastasis. Our study broadens the understanding of molecular mechanisms driving PDAC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ping Lin
- CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Minwei Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xueliang Fu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Dejun Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Lingye Tao
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Yanmiao Huo
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Rong Hua
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Yixue Li
- CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Center for Bioinformation Technology, Shanghai Academy of Science & Technology, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Liwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Department of Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Jing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Hong Li
- CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Yongwei Sun
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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12
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Emerging roles for the IL-6 family of cytokines in pancreatic cancer. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2091-2115. [PMID: 32808663 PMCID: PMC7434989 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has one of the poorest prognoses of all malignancies, with little improvement in clinical outcome over the past 40 years. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is responsible for the vast majority of pancreatic cancer cases, and is characterised by the presence of a dense stroma that impacts therapeutic efficacy and drives pro-tumorigenic programs. More specifically, the inflammatory nature of the tumour microenvironment is thought to underlie the loss of anti-tumour immunity and development of resistance to current treatments. Inflammatory pathways are largely mediated by the expression of, and signalling through, cytokines, chemokines, and other cellular messengers. In recent years, there has been much attention focused on dual targeting of cancer cells and the tumour microenvironment. Here we review our current understanding of the role of IL-6, and the broader IL-6 cytokine family, in pancreatic cancer, including their contribution to pancreatic inflammation and various roles in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis. We also summarise potential opportunities for therapeutic targeting of these pathways as an avenue towards combating poor patient outcomes.
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13
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Liu XG, Xu H, Chen M, Tan XY, Chen XF, Yang YG, Lin MZ, Liu GH, Liang XL, Qian YB, Yuan GJ, Chen MQ, Li WT, Miao HL, Li MY, Liao XW, Dai W, Chen NP. Identify potential clinical significance of long noncoding RNA forkhead box P4 antisense RNA 1 in patients with early stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Med 2020; 9:2062-2076. [PMID: 31991068 PMCID: PMC7064149 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that forkhead box P4 antisense RNA 1 (FOXP4‐AS1) is dysregulated in tumor tissues and can serve as a prognostic indicator for multiple cancers. However, the clinical significance of FOXP4‐AS1 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains unclear. The goal of this study is to recognize the possible clinical significance of long noncoding RNA FOXP4‐AS1 in patients with early stage PDAC. A total of 112 patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) PDAC cohort, receiving RNA sequencing, were involved in the study. Survival analysis, functional mechanism, and potential small molecule drugs of target therapy of FOXP4‐AS1 were performed in this study. Survival analysis in TCGA PDAC cohort suggested that patients with high FOXP4‐AS1 expression had significantly augmented possibility of death than in PDAC patients with lower FOXP4‐AS1 expression (adjusted P = .008; adjusted HR = 2.143, 95% CI = 1.221‐3.760). In this study, a genome‐wide RNA sequencing dataset was used to identify 927 genes co‐expressing with FOXP4‐AS1 in PDAC tumor tissues. A total of 676 differentially expressed genes were identified between different FOXP4‐AS1 expression groups. Functional enrichment analysis of these genes and gene set enrichment analysis for PDAC genome‐wide RNA sequencing dataset was done. We have found that FOXP4‐AS1 may function in PDAC by participating in biological processes and pathways including oxidative phosphorylation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, classical tumor‐related pathways such as NF‐kappaB as well as Janus kinase/signal transducers in addition to activators of transcription, cell proliferation, and adhesion. In addition, we also screened two potential targeted therapeutic small molecule drugs (dimenhydrinate and metanephrine) for FOXP4‐AS1 in PDAC. In conclusion, our present study demonstrated that higher expression of FOXP4‐AS1 in PDAC tumor tissues were related with an inferior medical outcome. Through multiple genome‐wide approaches, we identified the potential molecular mechanisms of FOXP4‐AS1 in PDAC and two targeted therapeutic drugs for it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Guang Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Yu Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Feng Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Guang Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Man-Zhou Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Lu Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Bin Qian
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Jia Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Min-Qiang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Tao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Lai Miao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Yi Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi-Wen Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Nian-Ping Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
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Chang WH, Lai AG. Aberrations in Notch-Hedgehog signalling reveal cancer stem cells harbouring conserved oncogenic properties associated with hypoxia and immunoevasion. Br J Cancer 2019; 121:666-678. [PMID: 31523055 PMCID: PMC6889439 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-019-0572-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have innate abilities to resist even the harshest of therapies. To eradicate CSCs, parallels can be drawn from signalling modules that orchestrate pluripotency. Notch-Hedgehog hyperactivation are seen in CSCs, yet, not much is known about their conserved roles in tumour progression across cancers. Methods Employing a comparative approach involving 21 cancers, we uncovered clinically-relevant, pan-cancer drivers of Notch and Hedgehog. GISTIC datasets were used to evaluate copy number alterations. Receiver operating characteristic and Cox regression were employed for survival analyses. Results We identified a Notch-Hedgehog signature of 13 genes exhibiting high frequencies of somatic amplifications leading to transcript overexpression. The signature successfully predicted patients at risk of death in five cancers (n = 2278): glioma (P < 0.0001), clear cell renal cell (P = 0.0022), papillary renal cell (P = 0.00099), liver (P = 0.014) and stomach (P = 0.011). The signature was independent of other clinicopathological parameters and offered an additional resolution to stratify similarly-staged tumours. High-risk patients exhibited features of stemness and had more hypoxic tumours, suggesting that hypoxia may influence CSC behaviour. Notch-Hedgehog+ CSCs had an immune privileged phenotype associated with increased regulatory T cell function. Conclusion This study will set the stage for exploring adjuvant therapy targeting the Notch-Hedgehog axis to help optimise therapeutic regimes leading to successful CSC elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Hoong Chang
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, 222 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DA, UK
| | - Alvina G Lai
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, 222 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DA, UK.
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15
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Chen YH, Lin TT, Wu YP, Li XD, Chen SH, Xue XY, Wei Y, Zheng QS, Huang JB, Xu N. Identification of key genes and pathways in seminoma by bioinformatics analysis. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:3683-3693. [PMID: 31190870 PMCID: PMC6526170 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s199115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Seminoma accounts for the most part of cases of testicular germ cell tumor, which is the most common malignancy among males between ages 15 and 44 years. Understanding the molecular mechanism of tumorigenesis is important for better clinical diagnosis and treatment. Purpose: We performed bioinformatics analysis to better understand seminoma at the genetic level and to explore potential candidate genes or molecules for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Methods: A gene expression profile (GSE8607), containing 40 seminoma samples and three healthy testes samples, was analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with the occurrence of seminoma. Functional annotation was then performed using gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. Cytoscape with Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes was used to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs and select hub genes. Moreover, validation of expression level and Kaplan–Meier analysis for overall survival were conducted to those hub genes. Results: A total of 1,636 DEGs were identified between seminoma and healthy samples, including 701 up-regulated in seminoma that were enriched in the regulation of immune responses, defense responses, receptor activity, and signal transducer activity; 935 were down-regulated in seminoma and were associated with reproductive processes, kinase activity, and carbohydrate derivative binding. Five hub genes were selected from the PPI network according to the degree of connectivity: IL6, VEGFA, IL10, CCR5, and CXCR4. Among them, high expression levels of CCR5 and CXCR4 were associated with poor prognosis for seminoma patients. Four modules selected from the PPI network revealed that seminoma was connected with the Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription signaling pathway, chemokine signaling pathway, endocytosis, and cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction. Conclusion: These identified DEGs and hub genes facilitate our knowledge of the underlying molecular mechanism of seminoma and have the potential to be used as diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets for seminoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Hui Chen
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Ting Lin
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Peng Wu
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Dong Li
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Shao-Hao Chen
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Yi Xue
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Wei
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Shui Zheng
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Bei Huang
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Xu
- Departments of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China
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16
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Ding Q, Sun J, Xie W, Zhang M, Zhang C, Xu X. Stemona alkaloids suppress the positive feedback loop between M2 polarization and fibroblast differentiation by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 pathway in fibroblasts and CXCR4/PI 3K/AKT1 pathway in macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 72:385-394. [PMID: 31030094 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the interaction between macrophages and fibroblasts in pulmonary fibrosis and the effects of total alkaloids of Stemona tuberosa (STA, 9 alkaloids with relative content of 91.2%) on them. The culture medium of LPS- or IL-4-induced macrophages was used as conditioned medium (CM) to co-culture with fibroblasts to study the effect of macrophages on the differentiation of fibroblasts. Similarly,the CM of TGF-β1-induced fibroblasts was co-culture with macrophages to study the effect of fibroblasts on the polarization of macrophages. The results showed that the TGF-β1 level in IL-4-induced (M2) rather than LPS-induced (M1) macrophages was significantly high (p < 0.001), and the SDF-1 level in TGF-β1-induced fibroblasts (MF) was significantly high (p < 0.001). The expressions of α-SMA and Col-1 in M2-CM-induced fibroblasts and Arg-1 and CXCR4 in MF-CM-induced macrophages were significantly increased (p < 0.01). STA effectively decreased the expressions of α-SMA (p < 0.05, 0.01 at 10, 100 μg/mL), Col-1 (p < 0.05, 0.05, 0.01 at 1, 10, 100 μg/mL), Arg-1 (p < 0.01 at 1, 10, 100 μg/mL) and CXCR4 (p < 0.01, 0.001 at 10, 100 μg/mL), which were consistent with the experimental results in vivo. These results suggested that there was a positive feedback loop between M2 polarization and fibroblast differentiation in pulmonary fibrosis. Further studies showed that the transcription of sdf-1 gene in MF was initiated by JAK2/STAT3 pathway and the M2 polarization was promoted by SDF-1/CXCR4/PI3K/AKT1 pathway. STA blocked the feedback loop by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 pathway in fibroblasts and CXCR4-PI3K/AKT1 pathway in macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Ding
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Sun
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weina Xie
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mian Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chaofeng Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xianghong Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China.
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17
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Kamalakar A, Oh MS, Stephenson YC, Ballestas-Naissir SA, Davis ME, Willett NJ, Drissi HM, Goudy SL. A non-canonical JAGGED1 signal to JAK2 mediates osteoblast commitment in cranial neural crest cells. Cell Signal 2018; 54:130-138. [PMID: 30529759 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
During craniofacial development, cranial neural crest (CNC) cells migrate into the developing face and form bone through intramembranous ossification. Loss of JAGGED1 (JAG1) signaling in the CNC cells is associated with maxillary hypoplasia or maxillary bone deficiency (MBD) in mice and recapitulates the MBD seen in humans with Alagille syndrome. JAGGED1, a membrane-bound NOTCH ligand, is required for normal craniofacial development, and Jagged1 mutations in humans are known to cause Alagille Syndrome, which is associated with cardiac, biliary, and bone phenotypes and these children experience increased bony fractures. Previously, we demonstrated deficient maxillary osteogenesis in Wnt1-cre;Jagged1f/f (Jag1CKO) mice by conditional deletion of Jagged1 in maxillary CNC cells. In this study, we investigated the JAG1 signaling pathways in a CNC cell line. Treatment with JAG1 induced osteoblast differentiation and maturation markers, Runx2 and Ocn, respectively, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) production, as well as classic NOTCH1 targets, Hes1 and Hey1. While JAG1-induced Hes1 and Hey1 expression levels were predictably decreased after DAPT (NOTCH inhibitor) treatment, JAG1-induced Runx2 and Ocn levels were surprisingly constant in the presence of DAPT, indicating that JAG1 effects in the CNC cells are independent of the canonical NOTCH pathway. JAG1 treatment of CNC cells increased Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) phosphorylation, which was refractory to DAPT treatment, highlighting the importance of the non-canonical NOTCH pathway during CNC cells osteoblast commitment. Pharmacologic inhibition of JAK2 phosphorylation, with and without DAPT treatment, upon JAG1 induction reduced ALP production and, Runx2 and Ocn gene expression. Collectively, these data suggest that JAK2 is an essential component downstream of a non-canonical JAG1-NOTCH1 pathway through which JAG1 stimulates expression of osteoblast-specific gene targets in CNC cells that contribute to osteoblast differentiation and bone mineralization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melissa S Oh
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | | | | | - Michael E Davis
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Tech College of Engineering, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Nick J Willett
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; The Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Hicham M Drissi
- Department of Cell biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; The Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Steven L Goudy
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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18
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Ye J, Wen J, Ning Y, Li Y. Higher notch expression implies poor survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pancreatology 2018; 18:954-961. [PMID: 30297095 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At present, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a fetal disease lack of effective prognostic and therapeutic methods resulting in high mortality. The Notch signaling has been demonstrated being up- or down-regulated in many cancers, but the effects in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are still controversial. Moreover, the available cases in an individual study are of small samples. Therefore, it is essential to define the effect of Notch signaling in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with larger samples. METHODS Conducted from 6 eligible studies and 463 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients, this was the first meta-analysis to analyze the correlation between the Notch signal pathway and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. All data were sourced from The National Center for Biotechnology Information, Web of Science and Cochrane. The articles which matched the inclusion criteria were included. All included data were analyzed and performed by Review Manager 5.3. RESULTS The results indicated that high expression of Notch signaling proteins was associated with poor overall survival of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients (pooled hazard ratio>2.00; P < 0.001). Moreover, poor survival was related to high expression of Notch3 (pooled hazard ratio: 2.05; confidence interval: 1.49-2.82; P < 0.001) and DLL4 (pooled hazard ratio: 2.13; confidence interval: 1.37-3.32; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis supports that Notch signaling proteins may be available as prognostic factors for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression and patient survival. Higher expression of Notch signaling proteins indicated poor survival of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients. Targeting Notch signaling components, especially Notch3 protein, would be beneficial for therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbin Ye
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Junjie Wen
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yunshan Ning
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| | - Yan Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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19
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Zhang H, Zeng J, Tan Y, Lu L, Sun C, Liang Y, Zou H, Yang X, Tan Y. Subgroup analysis reveals molecular heterogeneity and provides potential precise treatment for pancreatic cancers. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:5811-5819. [PMID: 30254473 PMCID: PMC6140745 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s163139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between molecular heterogeneity and clinical features of pancreatic cancer remains unclear. In this study, pancreatic cancer was divided into different subgroups to explore its specific molecular characteristics and potential therapeutic targets. Patients and methods Expression profiling data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and standardized. Bioinformatics techniques such as unsupervised hierarchical clustering was used to explore the optimal molecular subgroups in pancreatic cancer. Clinical pathological features and pathways in each subgroup were also analyzed to find out the potential clinical applications and initial promotive mechanisms of pancreatic cancer. Results Pancreatic cancer was divided into three subgroups based on different gene expression features. Patients included in each subgroup had specific biological features and responded significantly different to chemotherapy. Conclusion Three distinct subgroups of pancreatic cancer were identified, which means that patients in each subgroup might benefit from targeted individual management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heying Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
| | - Juan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
| | | | - Lin Lu
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cheng Sun
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
| | - Yusi Liang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
| | - Huawei Zou
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
| | - Xianghong Yang
- Department of Pathology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonggang Tan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China,
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20
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Subramaniam D, Kaushik G, Dandawate P, Anant S. Targeting Cancer Stem Cells for Chemoprevention of Pancreatic Cancer. Curr Med Chem 2018; 25:2585-2594. [PMID: 28137215 DOI: 10.2174/0929867324666170127095832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in United States. Regardless of the advances in molecular pathogenesis and consequential efforts to suppress the disease, this cancer remains a major health problem in United States. By 2030, the projection is that pancreatic cancer will be climb up to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Pancreatic cancer is a rapidly invasive and highly metastatic cancer, and does not respond to standard therapies. Emerging evidence supports that the presence of a unique population of cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs) as potential cancer inducing cells and efforts are underway to develop therapeutic strategies targeting these cells. CSCs are rare quiescent cells, and with the capacity to self-renew through asymmetric/symmetric cell division, as well as differentiate into various lineages of cells in the cancer. Studies have been shown that CSCs are highly resistant to standard therapy and also responsible for drug resistance, cancer recurrence and metastasis. To overcome this problem, we need novel preventive agents that target these CSCs. Natural compounds or phytochemicals have ability to target these CSCs and their signaling pathways. Therefore, in the present review article, we summarize our current understanding of pancreatic CSCs and their signaling pathways, and the phytochemicals that target these cells including curcumin, resveratrol, tea polyphenol EGCG (epigallocatechin- 3-gallate), crocetinic acid, sulforaphane, genistein, indole-3-carbinol, vitamin E δ- tocotrienol, Plumbagin, quercetin, triptolide, Licofelene and Quinomycin. These natural compounds or phytochemicals, which inhibit cancer stem cells may prove to be promising agents for the prevention and treatment of pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmalingam Subramaniam
- Department of Surgery, the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.,The University of Kansas Cancer Center, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Gaurav Kaushik
- Department of Surgery, the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Prasad Dandawate
- Department of Surgery, the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Shrikant Anant
- Department of Surgery, the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.,The University of Kansas Cancer Center, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
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21
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Harbuzariu A, Oprea-Ilies GM, Gonzalez-Perez RR. The Role of Notch Signaling and Leptin-Notch Crosstalk in Pancreatic Cancer. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 5:medicines5030068. [PMID: 30004402 PMCID: PMC6164868 DOI: 10.3390/medicines5030068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is accumulating evidence that deregulated Notch signaling affects cancer development, and specifically pancreatic cancer (PC) progression. Notch canonical and non-canonical signaling has diverse impact on PC. Moreover, the actions of RBP-Jk (nuclear partner of activated Notch) independent of Notch signaling pathway seem to affect differently cancer progression. Recent data show that in PC and other cancer types the adipokine leptin can modulate Notch/RBP-Jk signaling, thereby, linking the pandemic obesity with cancer and chemoresistance. The potential pivotal role of leptin on PC, and its connection with Notch signaling and chemoresistance are still not completely understood. In this review, we will describe the most important aspects of Notch-RBP-Jk signaling in PC. Further, we will discuss on studies related to RBP-Jk-independent Notch and Notch-independent RPB-Jk signaling. We will also discuss on the novel crosstalk between leptin and Notch in PC and its implications in chemoresistance. The effects of leptin-Notch/RBP-Jk signaling on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance require more investigation. Data from these investigations could help to open unexplored ways to improve PC treatment success that has shown little progress for many years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Harbuzariu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA.
| | | | - Ruben R Gonzalez-Perez
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA.
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22
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Tsai WC, Bai LY, Chen YJ, Chu PC, Hsu YW, Sargeant AM, Weng JR. OSU-A9 inhibits pancreatic cancer cell lines by modulating p38-JAK-STAT3 signaling. Oncotarget 2018; 8:29233-29246. [PMID: 28418923 PMCID: PMC5438726 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy that is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Since there is a dire need for novel and effective therapies to improve the poor survival rates of advanced pancreatic cancer patients, we analyzed the antitumor effects of OSU-A9, an indole-3-carbinol derivative, on pancreatic cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. OSU-A9 exhibited a stronger antitumor effect than gemcitabine on two pancreatic cancer cell lines, including gemcitabine-resistant PANC-1 cells. OSU-A9 treatment induced apoptosis, the down-regulation of Akt phosphorylation, up-regulation of p38 phosphorylation and decreased phosphorylation of JAK and STAT3. Cell migration and invasiveness assays showed that OSU-A9 reduced cancer cell aggressiveness and inhibited BxPC-3 xenograft growth in nude mice. These results suggest that OSU-A9 modulates the p38-JAK-STAT3 signaling module, thereby inducing cytotoxicity in pancreatic cancer cells. Continued evaluation of OSU-A9 as a potential therapeutic agent for pancreatic cancer thus appears warrented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Chi Tsai
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan.,Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Li-Yuan Bai
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jin Chen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chen Chu
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11574, Taiwan.,Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Hsu
- Department of Hospital and Health Care Administration, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy & Science, Tainan 71745, Taiwan
| | - Aaron M Sargeant
- Charles River Laboratories, Safety Assessment, Spencerville, OH 45887, USA
| | - Jing-Ru Weng
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
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23
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Xiao C, Hong H, Yu H, Yuan J, Guo C, Cao H, Li W. MiR-340 affects gastric cancer cell proliferation, cycle, and apoptosis through regulating SOCS3/JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2018; 40:278-283. [PMID: 29658372 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2018.1455208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhong Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hong Hong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haizhong Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianfen Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunyan Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongyan Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weibing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Nantong Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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24
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Cook N, Basu B, Smith DM, Gopinathan A, Evans J, Steward WP, Palmer D, Propper D, Venugopal B, Hategan M, Anthoney DA, Hampson LV, Nebozhyn M, Tuveson D, Farmer-Hall H, Turner H, McLeod R, Halford S, Jodrell D. A phase I trial of the γ-secretase inhibitor MK-0752 in combination with gemcitabine in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Br J Cancer 2018; 118:793-801. [PMID: 29438372 PMCID: PMC5877439 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Notch pathway is frequently activated in cancer. Pathway inhibition by γ-secretase inhibitors has been shown to be effective in pre-clinical models of pancreatic cancer, in combination with gemcitabine. METHODS A multi-centre, non-randomised Bayesian adaptive design study of MK-0752, administered per os weekly, in combination with gemcitabine administered intravenously on days 1, 8 and 15 (28 day cycle) at 800 or 1000 mg m-2, was performed to determine the safety of combination treatment and the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). Secondary and tertiary objectives included tumour response, plasma and tumour MK-0752 concentration, and inhibition of the Notch pathway in hair follicles and tumour. RESULTS Overall, 44 eligible patients (performance status 0 or 1 with adequate organ function) received gemcitabine and MK-0752 as first or second line treatment for pancreatic cancer. RP2Ds of MK-0752 and gemcitabine as single agents could be combined safely. The Bayesian algorithm allowed further dose escalation, but pharmacokinetic analysis showed no increase in MK-0752 AUC (area under the curve) beyond 1800 mg once weekly. Tumour response evaluation was available in 19 patients; 13 achieved stable disease and 1 patient achieved a confirmed partial response. CONCLUSIONS Gemcitabine and a γ-secretase inhibitor (MK-0752) can be combined at their full, single-agent RP2Ds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Cook
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Bristi Basu
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Donna-Michelle Smith
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Aarthi Gopinathan
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Jeffry Evans
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 0YN, United Kingdom
| | - William P Steward
- Department of Oncology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, UK
| | - Daniel Palmer
- Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, Wirral CH63 4JY, UK
| | - David Propper
- Bart’s Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London EC1M 6BQ, London, UK
| | - Balaji Venugopal
- Cancer Research UK, Centre for Drug Development, Angel Building, 407 St. John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - Mirela Hategan
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - D Alan Anthoney
- St James Institute of Oncology, University of Leeds & Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Lisa V Hampson
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Fylde College, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YF, UK
| | | | - David Tuveson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratories, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Hayley Farmer-Hall
- Cancer Research UK, Centre for Drug Development, Angel Building, 407 St. John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - Helen Turner
- Cancer Research UK, Centre for Drug Development, Angel Building, 407 St. John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - Robert McLeod
- Cancer Research UK, Centre for Drug Development, Angel Building, 407 St. John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - Sarah Halford
- Cancer Research UK, Centre for Drug Development, Angel Building, 407 St. John Street, London EC1V 4AD, UK
| | - Duncan Jodrell
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
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25
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Sannino G, Armbruster N, Bodenhöfer M, Haerle U, Behrens D, Buchholz M, Rothbauer U, Sipos B, Schmees C. Role of BCL9L in transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) and metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 7:73725-73738. [PMID: 27713160 PMCID: PMC5342010 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a low overall survival rate, which is approximately 20% during the first year and decreases to less than 6% within five years of the disease. This is due to premature dissemination accompanied by a lack of disease-specific symptoms during the initial stages. Additionally, to date there are no biomarkers for an early prognosis available.A growing number of studies indicate that epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), triggered by WNT-, TGF-β- and other signaling pathways is crucial for the initiation of the metastatic process in PDAC. Here we show, that BCL9L is up-regulated in PDAC cell lines and patient tissue compared to non-cancer controls. RNAi-induced BCL9L knockdown negatively affected proliferation, migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. On a molecular basis, BCL9L depletion provoked an increment of E-cadherin protein levels, with concomitant increase of β-catenin retention at the plasma membrane. This is linked to the induction of a strong epithelial phenotype in pancreatic cancer cells upon BCL9L knockdown even in the presence of the EMT-inducer TGF-β. Finally, xenograft mouse models of pancreatic cancer revealed a highly significant reduction in the number of liver metastases upon BCL9L knockdown. Taken together, our findings underline the key importance of BCL9L for EMT and thus progression and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. Direct targeting of this protein might be a valuable approach to effectively antagonize invasion and metastasis of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Sannino
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute (NMI) at the University of Tuebingen, Tumor Biology Group, Reutlingen, Germany.,Current address: Institute of Pathology, Laboratory of Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicole Armbruster
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute (NMI) at the University of Tuebingen, Tumor Biology Group, Reutlingen, Germany.,Current address: Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Mona Bodenhöfer
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute (NMI) at the University of Tuebingen, Tumor Biology Group, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Ursula Haerle
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute (NMI) at the University of Tuebingen, Tumor Biology Group, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Diana Behrens
- Experimental Pharmacology and Oncology GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Malte Buchholz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Bence Sipos
- Institute of Pathology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schmees
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute (NMI) at the University of Tuebingen, Tumor Biology Group, Reutlingen, Germany
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26
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Song H, Zhang Y. Regulation of pancreatic stellate cell activation by Notch3. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:36. [PMID: 29304760 PMCID: PMC5756326 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3957-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Activated pancreatic stellate cells (PaSCs) are the key cellular source of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the pancreatic stroma of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), however, the activation mechanism of PaSCs is not yet known. The Notch signaling pathway, components of which are expressed in stromal cells, is involved in the fibrosis of several organs, including the lung and liver. In the current study, we investigated whether Notch signal transduction is involved in PaSC activation in PDAC. Methods The expression of Notch signaling pathway components in human PDAC was examined via immunohistochemical staining and assessed in mouse PaSCs using RT-qPCR and western blotting. Notch3 expression in both PDAC stromal cells and activated mouse PaSCs was evaluated using immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR and western blotting. The impact of siRNA-mediated Notch3 knockdown on PaSC activation was detected with RT-qPCR and western blotting, and the impact on PaSC proliferation and migration was detected using CCK-8 assays and scratch experiments. The effect of conditioned medium from PaSCs activated with Notch3 siRNA on pancreatic cancer (LTPA) cells was also detected with CCK-8 assays and scratch experiments. The data were analyzed for statistical significance using Student’s t-test. Results Notch3 was overexpressed in both human PDAC stromal cells and activated mouse PaSCs, and Notch3 knockdown with Notch3 siRNA decreased the proliferation and migration of mouse PaSCs. The levels of markers related to PaSC activation, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I and fibronectin, decreased in response to Notch3 knockdown, indicating that Notch3 plays an important role in PaSC activation. Furthermore, we confirmed that inhibition of PaSC activation via Notch3 siRNA reduced the proliferation and migration of PaSC-induced mouse pancreatic cancer (LTPA) cells. Conclusions Notch3 inhibition in PaSCs can inhibit the activation, proliferation and migration of PaSCs and reduce the PaSC-induced pro-tumorigenic effect. Therefore, Notch3 silencing in PaSCs is a potential novel therapeutic option for patients with PDAC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-017-3957-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao, You An Men, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxiang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Institute, Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao, You An Men, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Dobranowski P, Ban F, Contreras-Sanz A, Cherkasov A, Black PC. Perspectives on the discovery of NOTCH2-specific inhibitors. Chem Biol Drug Des 2017; 91:691-706. [PMID: 29078041 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.13132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is a cell-cell communication system where membrane-bound ligands interact with the extracellular region of Notch receptors to induce intracellular, downstream effects on gene expression. Aberrant Notch signaling promotes tumorigenesis, and the Notch pathway has tremendous potential for novel targeting strategies in cancer treatment. While γ-secretase inhibitors as Notch-inhibiting agents are already promising in clinical trials, they are highly non-specific with adverse side-effects. One of the underlying challenges is that two of the four known human Notch paralogs, NOTCH1 and 2, share very high structural similarity but play opposing roles in some tumorigenesis pathways. This perspective explores the feasibility of developing Notch-specific small molecule inhibitors targeting the anti-NOTCH2 antibody-binding epitopes or the "S2-Leu-plug-binding site" using a computer-aided drug discovery approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Dobranowski
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fuqiang Ban
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alberto Contreras-Sanz
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Artem Cherkasov
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C Black
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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28
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Pan Y, Mao Y, Jin R, Jiang L. Crosstalk between the Notch signaling pathway and non-coding RNAs in gastrointestinal cancers. Oncol Lett 2017; 15:31-40. [PMID: 29285185 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is one of the main signaling pathways that mediates direct contact between cells, and is essential for normal development. It regulates various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. It additionally serves an important function in tumor progression. Non-coding RNAs mainly include small microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs. At present, a large body of literature supports the biological significance of non-coding RNAs in tumor progression. It is also becoming increasingly evident that cross-talk exists between Notch signaling and non-coding RNAs. The present review summarizes the current knowledge of Notch-mediated gastrointestinal cancer cell processes, and the effect of the crosstalk between the three major types of non-coding RNAs and the Notch signaling pathway on the fate of gastrointestinal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yuyan Mao
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Rong Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
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29
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Yu DL, Zhang T, Wu K, Li Y, Wang J, Chen J, Li XQ, Peng XG, Wang JN, Tan LG. MicroRNA-448 suppresses metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through targeting JAK1/STAT3 pathway. Oncol Rep 2017; 38:1075-1082. [PMID: 28677798 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of malignant pancreatic tumor. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small, non-protein coding, endogenous RNAs that play critical roles in tumorigenesis and progression of PDAC. In the present study, we demonstrated that miR-448 expression was downregulated in PDAC tissues and cell lines. Clinical association analysis indicated that low expression of miR-448 was associated with poor prognostic features and conferred a significant reduced survival of PDAC patients. Overexpression of miR-448 suppressed PDAC cell migration and invasion, while its loss showed the opposite effects on these cellular processes. In vivo experiments revealed that miR-488 restoration prohibited liver metastasis of PDAC in nude mice. Moreover, we found that Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) was a direct target gene of miR-448 in PDAC cells. We further demonstrated that the expression of JAK1 mRNA was upregulated in PDAC tissues. Notably, the expression of JAK1 mRNA was inversely correlated with the level of miR-448 in PDAC tissues. In addition, JAK1 knockdown showed similar effects of miR-448 on the metastasis of PDAC cells. JAK1/STAT3 pathway may be involved in the function of miR-448 in PDAC cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that miR-448 functions as a tumor suppressor in the development of PDAC through targeting the JAK1/STAT3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Li Yu
- Department of Emergency, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Kun Wu
- The 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Dongfeng Huaguo Hospital of Shiyan City, Shiyan, Hubei 442049, P.R. China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Emergency, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Quan Li
- Department of Emergency, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Guo Peng
- Department of Emergency, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Ning Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
| | - Li-Guo Tan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, P.R. China
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30
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Garrido-Tapia M, Hernández CJ, Ascui G, Kramm K, Morales M, Ga Rate V, Zúñiga R, Bustamante M, Aguillón JC, Catala N D, Ribeiro CH, Molina MAC. STAT3 inhibition by STA21 increases cell surface expression of MICB and the release of soluble MICB by gastric adenocarcinoma cells. Immunobiology 2017; 222:1043-1051. [PMID: 28578917 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2017.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
NKG2D is an activating receptor expressed on NK cells that binds to a variety of ligands, including MICA and MICB. These cell surface glycoproteins are overexpressed under cellular transformation, thus playing an important role in cell-mediated immune response to tumors. STAT3 is a transcription factor that is constitutively active in cancer. It negatively regulates MICA expression on target cells, while its inhibition enhances NK cell cytotoxicity against tumors. In this work, we aimed to describe the effect of STAT3 signaling inhibition by STA21 on the regulation of MICB expression in gastric adenocarcinoma cells and its effect on the cytotoxic function of NK cells. Treatment of gastric adenocarcinoma cells with STA21 induced an increase in MICB expression and soluble MICB secretion, as well as a variable pattern on effector cell degranulation. Soluble MICB secretion by gastric adenocarcinoma cells was not affected by metalloprotease inhibition. We also observed that primary gastric adenocarcinoma tissue released soluble MICB into the extracellular milieu. Recombinant MICB induced a significant decrease in the levels of NKG2D receptor on effector NK and CD8+ T cells, which correlated with an impaired cytotoxic function. Altogether, our data provide evidence that STAT3 signaling pathway regulates MICB expression on gastric adenocarcinoma cells and that recombinant soluble MICB compromises the cytolytic activity of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macarena Garrido-Tapia
- Laboratorio de Anticuerpos Recombinantes e Inmunoterapia anti tumoral. Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Carolina J Hernández
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Gabriel Ascui
- Laboratorio de Inmunoedición del Cáncer, Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Karina Kramm
- Laboratorio de Anticuerpos Recombinantes e Inmunoterapia anti tumoral. Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Marcela Morales
- Laboratorio de Anticuerpos Recombinantes e Inmunoterapia anti tumoral. Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Valentina Ga Rate
- Laboratorio de Anticuerpos Recombinantes e Inmunoterapia anti tumoral. Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Roberto Zúñiga
- Centro de Inmunobiotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile; Programa de Doctorado en Química, Universidad de la República Oriental de Uruguay, Uruguay.
| | - Marco Bustamante
- Departamento de Cirugía Digestiva, Hospital del Salvador, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Juan Carlos Aguillón
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Autoinmunes e Inflamatorias, Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Diego Catala N
- Laboratorio de Inmunoregulación, Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Carolina H Ribeiro
- Laboratorio de Inmunoedición del Cáncer, Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
| | - Mari A Carmen Molina
- Laboratorio de Anticuerpos Recombinantes e Inmunoterapia anti tumoral. Programa Disciplinario de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile; Centro de Inmunobiotecnología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile.
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31
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Abstract
Acinar cells in the adult pancreas show high plasticity and can undergo transdifferentiation to a progenitor-like cell type with ductal characteristics. This process, termed acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), is an important feature facilitating pancreas regeneration after injury. Data from animal models show that cells that undergo ADM in response to oncogenic signalling are precursors for pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia lesions, which can further progress to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). As human pancreatic adenocarcinoma is often diagnosed at a stage of metastatic disease, understanding the processes that lead to its initiation is important for the discovery of markers for early detection, as well as options that enable an early intervention. Here, the critical determinants of acinar cell plasticity are discussed, in addition to the intracellular and extracellular signalling events that drive acinar cell metaplasia and their contribution to development of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Storz
- Department of Cancer Biology, Room 306 Griffin Building, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA
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32
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Salmiheimo A, Mustonen H, Vainionpää S, Shen Z, Kemppainen E, Puolakkainen P, Seppänen H. Tumour-associated macrophages activate migration and STAT3 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells in co-cultures. Pancreatology 2017; 17:635-641. [PMID: 28476581 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2017.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tumour-associated macrophages participate in tumour development and progression. The aim of this study was to assess the interactions of pancreatic cancer cells and pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, specifically their effect on pancreatic cancer cell migration and the changes in STAT-signalling. METHODS Monocytes were isolated from healthy subjects and differentiated into macrophages with M-CSF. The macrophages were polarized towards M1 by IL-12 and towards M2 by IL-10. We studied also the effect of pan-JAK/STAT-inhibitor P6. Macrophage polarization and STAT and NFkB-activation in both MiaPaCa-2 and macrophages were assessed by flow cytometry. We recorded the effect of co-culture on migration rate of pancreatic cancer cells MiaPaCa-2. RESULTS Macrophages increased the migration rate of pancreatic cancer cells. Co-culture activated STAT1, STAT3, STAT5, AKT, and NFkB in macrophages and STAT3 in MiaPaCa-2 cells. IL-12 polarized macrophages towards M1 and decreased the migration rate of pancreatic cancer cells in co-cultures as well as P6. IL-10 skewed macrophage polarization towards M2 and induced increase of pancreatic cancer cells in co-cultures. CONCLUSION Co-culture with macrophages increased pancreatic cancer cell migration and activated STAT3. It is possible to activate and deactivate migration of pancreatic cancer cells trough macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aino Salmiheimo
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Harri Mustonen
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Vainionpää
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zhanlong Shen
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Esko Kemppainen
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pauli Puolakkainen
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Hanna Seppänen
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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33
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Khan MAA, Azim S, Zubair H, Bhardwaj A, Patel GK, Khushman M, Singh S, Singh AP. Molecular Drivers of Pancreatic Cancer Pathogenesis: Looking Inward to Move Forward. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18040779. [PMID: 28383487 PMCID: PMC5412363 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [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: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) continues to rank among the most lethal cancers. The consistent increase in incidence and mortality has made it the seventh leading cause of cancer-associated deaths globally and the third in the United States. The biggest challenge in combating PC is our insufficient understanding of the molecular mechanism(s) underlying its complex biology. Studies during the last several years have helped identify several putative factors and events, both genetic and epigenetic, as well as some deregulated signaling pathways, with implications in PC onset and progression. In this review article, we make an effort to summarize our current understanding of molecular and cellular events involved in the pathogenesis of pancreatic malignancy. Specifically, we provide up-to-date information on the genetic and epigenetic changes that occur during the initiation and progression of PC and their functional involvement in the pathogenic processes. We also discuss the impact of the tumor microenvironment on the molecular landscape of PC and its role in aggressive disease progression. It is envisioned that a better understanding of these molecular factors and the mechanisms of their actions can help unravel novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and can also be exploited for future targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Aslam Aslam Khan
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Shafquat Azim
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Haseeb Zubair
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Arun Bhardwaj
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Girijesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Moh'd Khushman
- Departments of Interdisciplinary Clinical Oncology, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Seema Singh
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Ajay Pratap Singh
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
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Endogenously Expressed IL-4Rα Promotes the Malignant Phenotype of Human Pancreatic Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18040716. [PMID: 28350325 PMCID: PMC5412302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18040716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Exogenous interleukin-4 (IL-4) has been demonstrated to affect the growth of different human malignancies including pancreatic cancer cells. The aim of our study was to determine the role of endogenously expressed IL-4-receptor-α-chain (IL-4Rα) in pancreatic cancer cells. IL-4Rα-suppression was achieved by generating Capan-1 cells stably expressing shRNA targeting IL-4Rα. The malignant phenotype was characterized by assessing growth properties, directional and non-directional cell movement in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Signaling pathways were analyzed upon IL-4 and IL-13 stimulation of wildtype (WT) and control-transfected cells compared to IL-4Rα-knockdown cells. Silencing of IL-4Rα resulted in reduced anchorage-dependent cell growth (p < 0.05) and reduced anchorage-independent colony size (p < 0.001) in vitro. Moreover, cell movement and migration was inhibited. IL-4 and IL-13 stimulation of Capan-1-WT cells induced activation of similar pathways like stimulation with Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I. This activation was reduced after IL-4Rα downregulation while IGF-I signaling seemed to be enhanced in knockdown-clones. Importantly, IL-4Rα silencing also significantly suppressed tumor growth in vivo. The present study indicates that endogenously expressed IL-4 and IL-4Rα contribute to the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer cells by activating diverse pro-oncogenic signaling pathways. Addressing these pathways may contribute to the treatment of the disease.
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35
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Li B, Huang C. Regulation of EMT by STAT3 in gastrointestinal cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2017; 50:753-767. [PMID: 28098855 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.3846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is characterized by its aggressiveness and tendency to metastasize at early stage. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), commonly known as the preparing step of metastasis, may account for the aggressive phenotype of GI cancer cells. The process of EMT is finely orchestrated by multiple layers of regulators. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor constitutively activated in diverse malignancies. Recent studies have suggested an involvement of STAT3 in GI cancer EMT. In this review, we first take an insight into the oncogenic functions of STAT3 in GI cancer, and then summarize the possible mechanisms by which STAT3 regulates the EMT process. Through the extensive interactions with EMT-inducing transcription factors and non-coding RNAs, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways, STAT3 has been demonstrated to promote the mesenchymal and invasive phenotype of GI cancer, which provides rationales for specifically targeting STAT3 to prevent and reverse the progression of GI cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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36
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Feng J, Yu SY, Li CZ, Li ZY, Zhang YZ. Integrative proteomics and transcriptomics revealed that activation of the IL-6R/JAK2/STAT3/MMP9 signaling pathway is correlated with invasion of pituitary null cell adenomas. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 436:195-203. [PMID: 27465831 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs) are a highly heterogeneous group, but few studies have explored the invasion mechanism of specific subtypes of NFPAs. The objective of this study was to investigate the differential molecular expression patterns and the critical biological signaling pathways involved in the invasion of pituitary null cell adenomas (PNCAs) through integrative proteomics and transcriptomics. A total of 1160 genes and 283 proteins were found to be differentially expressed in invasive and non-invasive PNCAs. The differentially expressed molecules related to invasion were enriched in 15 canonical signaling pathways, 15 clusters of diseases or biological functions and 5 upstream molecules. Among them, the majority of the differentially expressed molecules were found to be involved in transport of molecule, migration of cells and cell movement. Notably, IL-6 was a significantly activated upstream regulator, and the IL6R/JAK2/STAT3 cascade was found to play a critical role in acute phase response signaling, which was the most significant canonical signaling pathway. Furthermore, we validated the overexpression of IL-6R, JAK2, STAT3, p-STAT3 and MMP9 in invasive PNCAs. Our data suggest that overactivation of the IL-6R/JAK2/STAT3/MMP9 pathway is critical for the invasion of PNCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Feng
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders Brain Tumor Center, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Sheng-Yuan Yu
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders Brain Tumor Center, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Chu-Zhong Li
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Zhen-Ye Li
- Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Ya-Zhuo Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders Brain Tumor Center, China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
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37
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Hidalgo-Sastre A, Brodylo RL, Lubeseder-Martellato C, Sipos B, Steiger K, Lee M, von Figura G, Grünwald B, Zhong S, Trajkovic-Arsic M, Neff F, Schmid RM, Siveke JT. Hes1 Controls Exocrine Cell Plasticity and Restricts Development of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma in a Mouse Model. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2016; 186:2934-2944. [PMID: 27639167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2016.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 06/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Perturbation of pancreatic acinar cell state can lead to acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), a precursor lesion to the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In the pancreas, Notch signaling is active both during development and in adult cellular differentiation processes. Hes1, a key downstream target of the Notch signaling pathway, is expressed in the centroacinar compartment of the adult pancreas as well as in both preneoplastic and malignant lesions. In this study, we used a murine genetic in vivo approach to ablate Hes1 in pancreatic progenitor cells (Ptf1a+/Cre; Hes1fl/fl). Using this model, we studied the role of Hes1 in both acinar cell plasticity and pancreatic regeneration after caerulein-induced pancreatitis and in KrasG12D-driven PDAC development. We show that, although pancreatic development is not perturbed on the deletion of Hes1, terminal acinar differentiation in the adult pancreas is compromised. Moreover, the loss of Hes1 leads to the impaired regeneration of the exocrine compartment, accelerated fatty metaplasia, and persistent ADM after acute caerulein-induced pancreatitis. In KrasG12D-driven carcinogenesis, Hes1 ablation resulted in increased ADM, decreased formation of high-grade pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias, and accelerated development of PDAC with shortened survival time. In conclusion, Hes1 plays a key role in acinar cell integrity and plasticity on cellular insults. Furthermore, Hes1 is an essential component of the pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias-to-PDAC route in KrasG12D-driven mouse pancreatic carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Hidalgo-Sastre
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Roxanne L Brodylo
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Clara Lubeseder-Martellato
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bence Sipos
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- Comparative Experimental Pathology Unit, Institute for General Pathology and Pathological Anatomy, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marcel Lee
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Guido von Figura
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara Grünwald
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Suyang Zhong
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marija Trajkovic-Arsic
- German Cancer Consortium and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Florian Neff
- German Cancer Consortium and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Roland M Schmid
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens T Siveke
- II Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium and German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
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38
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Notch signalling pathway as an oncogenic factor involved in cancer development. Contemp Oncol (Pozn) 2016; 20:267-72. [PMID: 27688721 PMCID: PMC5032153 DOI: 10.5114/wo.2016.61845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Notch signalling is an evolutionarily conserved signalling pathway, which plays a significant role in a wide array of cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Nevertheless, it must be noted that Notch is a binary cell fate determinant, and its overexpression has been described as oncogenic in a broad range of human malignancies. This finding led to interest in therapeutically targeting this pathway especially by the use of GSIs, which block the cleavage of Notch at the cell membrane and inhibit release of the transcriptionally active NotchIC subunit. Preclinical cancer models have clearly demonstrated that GSIs suppress the growth of such malignancies as pancreatic, breast, and lung cancer; however, GSI treatment in vivo is associated with side effects, especially those within the gastrointestinal tract. Although intensive studies are associated with the role of γ-secretase in pathological states, it should be pointed out that this complex impacts on proteolytic cleavages of around 55 membrane proteins. Therefore, it is clear that GSIs are highly non-specific and additional drugs must be designed, which will more specifically target components of the Notch signalling.
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39
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Identification of a five-lncRNA signature for the diagnosis and prognosis of gastric cancer. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:13265-13277. [PMID: 27460075 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-5185-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies and has a poor prognosis. Identifying novel diagnostic and prognostic markers is of great importance for the management and treatment of GC. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are involved in multiple processes during the development and progression of cancer, may act as potential biomarkers of GC. Here, by performing data mining using four microarray data sets of GC downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database with different classifiers and risk score analyses, we identified a five-lncRNA signature (AK001094, AK024171, AK093735, BC003519 and NR_003573) displaying both diagnostic and prognostic values for GC. The results of the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test showed that the risk score based on this five-lncRNA signature was closely associated with overall survival time (p = 0.0001). Further analysis revealed that the risk score is an independent predictor of prognosis. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis of 30 pairs of GC tissue samples confirmed that the five lncRNAs were dysregulated in GC, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed the high diagnostic ability of combining the five lncRNAs, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.95 ± 0.025. The five lncRNAs involved in several cancer-related pathways were identified using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). These findings indicate that the five-lncRNA signature may have a good clinical applicability for determining the diagnosis and predicting the prognosis of GC.
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40
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Guo X, Hollander L, MacPherson D, Wang L, Velazquez H, Chang J, Safirstein R, Cha C, Gorelick F, Desir GV. Inhibition of renalase expression and signaling has antitumor activity in pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22996. [PMID: 26972355 PMCID: PMC4789641 DOI: 10.1038/srep22996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
An essential feature of cancer is dysregulation of cell senescence and death. Renalase, a recently discovered secreted flavoprotein, provides cytoprotection against ischemic and toxic cellular injury by signaling through the PI3K-AKT and MAPK pathways. Here we show that renalase expression is increased in pancreatic cancer tissue and that it functions as a growth factor. In a cohort of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, overall survival was inversely correlated with renalase expression in the tumor mass, suggesting a pathogenic role for renalase. Inhibition of renalase signaling using siRNA or inhibitory anti-renalase antibodies decreased the viability of cultured pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. In two xenograft mouse models, either the renalase monoclonal antibody m28-RNLS or shRNA knockdown of renalase inhibited pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma growth. Inhibition of renalase caused tumor cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. These results reveal a previously unrecognized role for the renalase in cancer: its expression may serve as a prognostic maker and its inhibition may provide an attractive therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojia Guo
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lindsay Hollander
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Douglas MacPherson
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- Renal Division, Renji hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong Univ School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Heino Velazquez
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - John Chang
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Robert Safirstein
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Charles Cha
- Department of Surgery, VACHS, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Fred Gorelick
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Gary V Desir
- Department of Medicine, VACHS, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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41
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Knudsen ES, O’Reilly EM, Brody JR, Witkiewicz AK. Genetic Diversity of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Opportunities for Precision Medicine. Gastroenterology 2016; 150:48-63. [PMID: 26385075 PMCID: PMC5010785 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2015.08.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) have a poor prognosis despite new treatments; approximately 7% survive for 5 years. Although there have been advances in systemic, primarily cytotoxic, therapies, it has been a challenge to treat patients with PDA using targeted therapies. Sequence analyses have provided a wealth of information about the genetic features of PDA and have identified potential therapeutic targets. Preclinical and early-phase clinical studies have found specific pathways could be rationally targeted; it might also be possible to take advantage of the genetic diversity of PDAs to develop therapeutic agents. The genetic diversity and instability of PDA cells have long been thought of as obstacles to treatment, but are now considered exploitable features. We review the latest findings in pancreatic cancer genetics and the promise of targeted approaches in PDA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik S. Knudsen
- Simmons Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, TX,Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, TX,CORRESPONDENCE, Erik Knudsen, PHD, UTSW, Dallas TX, , Agnieszka Witkiewicz, UTSW, Dallas TX,
| | - Eileen M. O’Reilly
- Department of Medicine, Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NY
| | - Jonathan R. Brody
- Department of Surgery, Jefferson Pancreatic, Biliary, and Related Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, PA
| | - Agnieszka K. Witkiewicz
- Simmons Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, TX,Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, TX,CORRESPONDENCE, Erik Knudsen, PHD, UTSW, Dallas TX, , Agnieszka Witkiewicz, UTSW, Dallas TX,
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42
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Mace TA, Shakya R, Elnaggar O, Wilson K, Komar HM, Yang J, Pitarresi JR, Young GS, Ostrowski MC, Ludwig T, Bekaii-Saab T, Bloomston M, Lesinski GB. Single agent BMS-911543 Jak2 inhibitor has distinct inhibitory effects on STAT5 signaling in genetically engineered mice with pancreatic cancer. Oncotarget 2015; 6:44509-22. [PMID: 26575024 PMCID: PMC4792572 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Jak/STAT pathway is activated in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and cooperates with mutant Kras to drive initiation and progression of PDAC in murine models. We hypothesized that the small-molecule Jak2 inhibitor (BMS-911543) would elicit anti-tumor activity against PDAC and decrease immune suppressive features of the disease. We used an aggressive genetically engineered PDAC model with mutant KrasG12D, tp53R270H, and Brca1 alleles (KPC-Brca1 mice). Mice with confirmed tumor burden were treated orally with vehicle or 30 mg/kg BMS-911543 daily for 14 days. Histologic analysis of pancreata from treated mice revealed fewer foci of adenocarcinoma and significantly decreased Ki67+ cells versus controls. In vivo administration of BMS-911543 significantly reduced pSTAT5 and FoxP3 positive cells within the pancreas, but did not alter STAT3 phosphorylation. Continuous dosing of KPC-Brca1 mice with BMS-911543 resulted in a median survival of 108 days, as compared to a median survival of 87 days in vehicle treated animals, a 23% increase (p = 0.055). In vitro experiments demonstrated that PDAC cell lines were poorly sensitive to BMS-911543, requiring high micromolar concentrations to achieve targeted inhibition of Jak/STAT signaling. Similarly, BMS-911543 had little in vitro effect on the viability of both murine and human PDAC-derived stellate cell lines. However, BMS-911543 potently inhibited phosphorylation of pSTAT3 and pSTAT5 at low micromolar doses in human PBMC and reduced in vitro differentiation of Foxp3+ T regulatory cells. These results indicate that single agent Jak2i deserves further study in preclinical models of PDAC and has distinct inhibitory effects on STAT5 mediated signaling.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/enzymology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Cell Survival/drug effects
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Genes, BRCA1
- Genes, p53
- Genes, ras
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring/pharmacology
- Janus Kinase 2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Janus Kinase 2/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/drug effects
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/pathology
- Mice, Transgenic
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
- Mutation
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/enzymology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Phenotype
- Phosphorylation
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- STAT5 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/pathology
- Time Factors
- Tumor Burden
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Mace
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Reena Shakya
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Omar Elnaggar
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kristin Wilson
- Veterinary Biosciences, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hannah M. Komar
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jennifer Yang
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jason R. Pitarresi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Gregory S. Young
- Center for Biostatistics, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael C. Ostrowski
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas Ludwig
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Tanios Bekaii-Saab
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mark Bloomston
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Gregory B. Lesinski
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Notch signaling: an emerging therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Cancer Lett 2015; 369:20-7. [PMID: 26341688 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is involved in cell proliferation, differentiation and survival. The Notch signaling pathway is one of the most commonly activated signaling pathways in cancer. Alterations include activating mutations and amplification of the Notch pathway, which play key roles in the progression of cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that the pharmacological inhibition of this pathway can overcome chemoresistance. Efforts have been taken to develop Notch inhibitors as a single agent or in combination with clinically used chemotherapeutics to treat cancer. Some Notch inhibitors have been demonstrated to have therapeutic efficacy in preclinical studies. This review summarizes the recent studies and clinical evaluations of the Notch inhibitors in cancer.
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Sclafani F, Iyer R, Cunningham D, Starling N. Management of metastatic pancreatic cancer: Current treatment options and potential new therapeutic targets. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2015; 95:318-36. [PMID: 25921418 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is a malignancy with a poor prognosis, with the majority of patients diagnosed with advanced disease on presentation. Treatment options remain limited with little progress over the last 40 years. This review will focus on the current management of metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, with a discussion of new and future treatment strategies based on an improved understanding of tumour biology and mechanisms of pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ridhima Iyer
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London and Surrey, UK
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Growth hormone receptor inhibition decreases the growth and metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Exp Mol Med 2014; 46:e117. [PMID: 25301264 PMCID: PMC4221692 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2014.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Revised: 07/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the only major cancer with very low survival rates (1%). It is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death. Hyperactivated growth hormone receptor (GHR) levels have been shown to increase the risk of cancer in general and this pathway is a master regulator of key cellular functions like proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, metastasis, etc. However, to date there is no available data on how GHR promotes pancreatic cancer pathogenesis. Here, we used an RNA interference approach targeted to GHR to determine whether targeting GHR is an effective method for controlling pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis. For this, we used an in vitro model system consisting of HPAC and PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cells lines. GHR is upregulated in both of these cell lines and silencing GHR significantly reduced cell proliferation and viability. Inhibition of GHR also reduced the metastatic potential of pancreatic cancer cells, which was aided through decreased colony-forming ability and reduced invasiveness. Flow cytometric and western blot analyses revealed the induction of apoptosis in GHR silenced cells. GHR silencing affected phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/AKT, mitogen extracellular signal-regulated kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling, as well as, epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Interestingly, silencing GHR also suppressed the expression of insulin receptor-β and cyclo-oxygenease-2. Altogether, GHR silencing controls the growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer and reveals its importance in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis.
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46
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Wang S, Chen X, Tang M. MicroRNA-216a inhibits pancreatic cancer by directly targeting Janus kinase 2. Oncol Rep 2014; 32:2824-30. [PMID: 25220761 DOI: 10.3892/or.2014.3478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA (miR)-216a expression is significantly downregulated in human pancreatic cancer, however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, we aimed to identify and characterize the direct target gene and potential function of miR-216a in pancreatic cancer cells. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay showed that Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) was a direct target gene of miR-216a. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis demonstrated that miR-216a decreased the mRNA and protein levels of JAK2 in pancreatic cancer cells. Phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was also downregulated by miR-216a, whereas the anti-miR-216a treatment had an opposite effect. Treatment of pancreatic cancer cells with miR-216a significantly inhibited cell growth and promoted cell apoptosis. In addition, the downstream genes of JAK2/STAT3, survivin and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein, which are anti‑apoptotic genes, were also decreased by miR-216a. Moreover, miR-216a overexpression markedly inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Compared with miR-216a treatment, anti-miR-216a treatment exhibited opposite effects throughout the entire experiment, confirming the inhibitory effect of miR-216a on pancreatic cancer by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. The results provided evidence that miR-216a targeting JAK2 negatively regulated the development of pancreatic cancer cells and may be used to develop a miRNA-based therapeutic strategy against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siliang Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Heping, Shenyang, Liaoning 110022, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Heping, Shenyang, Liaoning 110022, P.R. China
| | - Meiyue Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Heping, Shenyang, Liaoning 110022, P.R. China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recent advances in sequencing technology have led to a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the molecular biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This timely review seeks to summarize these recent advances which will provide a foundation for future studies in the field. RECENT FINDINGS Stereotypical genetic alterations have been identified and confirmed. However, additional alterations have highlighted the importance and complexity of a number of intracellular signaling pathways that present unique opportunities for therapeutic targeting. SUMMARY A genetic signature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has been identified. This recent and important work is currently in the process of being applied in many clinical applications from early diagnostics to customized therapeutic regimens for this disease. A fundamental understanding of these findings will thus be of utmost importance for future research in the field and in the clinical care of patients with this lethal disease.
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