1
|
Liu X, Chai R, Xu Q, Zou M, Jiang S, Liu Y, Li R, Kong T, Chen X, Xu R, Liu S, Zhang Z, Liu N. Targeting Skp2 degradation with troxerutin decreases neointima formation. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 982:176947. [PMID: 39209097 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The proliferative and migratory abilities of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a crucial role in neointima formation following vascular injury. Skp2 facilitates proliferation and migration in cells through cell cycle regulation, presenting an important therapeutic target for atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and vascular restenosis. This study aimed to identify a natural product capable of inhibiting neointima formation post vascular injury. Here, we demonstrate that troxerutin, a flavonoid, significantly reduced viability and downregulated Skp2 in VSMCs. Moreover, troxerutin exhibited anti-proliferative effects on VSMCs and mitigated neointima formation. These findings collectively elucidate the intrinsic mechanism of troxerutin in treating atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and vascular restenosis by targeting the E3-linked enzyme Skp2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Renjie Chai
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Qiong Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Min Zou
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Siqin Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Yajing Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Rongxue Li
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Tianyu Kong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Xiaohua Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Ruqin Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Shiming Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Zhenhui Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Ningning Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schlaepfer DD, Ojalill M, Stupack DG. Focal adhesion kinase signaling - tumor vulnerabilities and clinical opportunities. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261723. [PMID: 39034922 PMCID: PMC11298715 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK; encoded by PTK2) was discovered over 30 years ago as a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine kinase that is localized to cell adhesion sites, where it is activated by integrin receptor binding to extracellular matrix proteins. FAK is ubiquitously expressed and functions as a signaling scaffold for a variety of proteins at adhesions and in the cell cytoplasm, and with transcription factors in the nucleus. FAK expression and intrinsic activity are essential for mouse development, with molecular connections to cell motility, cell survival and gene expression. Notably, elevated FAK tyrosine phosphorylation is common in tumors, including pancreatic and ovarian cancers, where it is associated with decreased survival. Small molecule and orally available FAK inhibitors show on-target inhibition in tumor and stromal cells with effects on chemotherapy resistance, stromal fibrosis and tumor microenvironment immune function. Herein, we discuss recent insights regarding mechanisms of FAK activation and signaling, its roles as a cytoplasmic and nuclear scaffold, and the tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic effects of FAK inhibitors. We also discuss results from ongoing and advanced clinical trials targeting FAK in low- and high-grade serous ovarian cancers, where FAK acts as a master regulator of drug resistance. Although FAK is not known to be mutationally activated, preventing FAK activity has revealed multiple tumor vulnerabilities that support expanding clinical combinatorial targeting possibilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David D. Schlaepfer
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Marjaana Ojalill
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Dwayne G. Stupack
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu Q, Cheng L, Li F, Zhu H, Lu X, Huang C, Yuan X. NSC689857, an inhibitor of Skp2, produces antidepressant-like effects in mice. Behav Pharmacol 2024; 35:227-238. [PMID: 38651981 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
We have previously reported that two inhibitors of an E3 ligase S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2), SMIP004 and C1, have an antidepressant-like effect in non-stressed and chronically stressed mice. This prompted us to ask whether other Skp2 inhibitors could also have an antidepressant effect. Here, we used NSC689857, another Skp2 inhibitor, to investigate this hypothesis. The results showed that administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) produced an antidepressant-like effect in a time-dependent manner in non-stressed male mice, which started 8 days after drug administration. Dose-dependent analysis showed that administration of 5 and 10 mg/kg, but not 1 mg/kg, of NSC689857 produced antidepressant-like effects in both non-stressed male and female mice. Administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) also induced antidepressant-like effects in non-stressed male mice when administered three times within 24 h (24, 5, and 1 h before testing) but not when administered acutely (1 h before testing). In addition, NSC689857 and fluoxetine coadministration produced additive antidepressant-like effects in non-stressed male mice. These effects of NSC689857 were not associated with the changes in locomotor activity. Administration of NSC689857 (5 mg/kg) also attenuated depression-like behaviors in male mice induced by chronic social defeat stress, suggesting therapeutic potential of NSC689857 in depression. Overall, these results suggest that NSC689857 is capable of exerting antidepressant-like effects in both non-stressed and chronically stressed mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nantong Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong
| | - Li Cheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzhou Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changzhou No. 7 People's Hospital, Changzhou
| | - Fu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzhou Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changzhou No. 7 People's Hospital, Changzhou
| | - Haojie Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu
| | - Xu Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu
| | - Chao Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu
| | - Xiaomei Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang T, Cao RJ, Niu JL, Chen ZH, Mu SQ, Cao T, Pang JX, Dong LH. G6PD maintains the VSMC synthetic phenotype and accelerates vascular neointimal hyperplasia by inhibiting the VDAC1-Bax-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:47. [PMID: 38589823 PMCID: PMC11003121 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00566-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) plays an important role in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic switching, which is an early pathogenic event in various vascular remodeling diseases (VRDs). However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. METHODS An IP‒LC‒MS/MS assay was conducted to identify new binding partners of G6PD involved in the regulation of VSMC phenotypic switching under platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) stimulation. Co-IP, GST pull-down, and immunofluorescence colocalization were employed to clarify the interaction between G6PD and voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1 (VDAC1). The molecular mechanisms involved were elucidated by examining the interaction between VDAC1 and apoptosis-related biomarkers, as well as the oligomerization state of VDAC1. RESULTS The G6PD level was significantly elevated and positively correlated with the synthetic characteristics of VSMCs induced by PDGF-BB. We identified VDAC1 as a novel G6PD-interacting molecule essential for apoptosis. Specifically, the G6PD-NTD region was found to predominantly contribute to this interaction. G6PD promotes VSMC survival and accelerates vascular neointimal hyperplasia by inhibiting VSMC apoptosis. Mechanistically, G6PD interacts with VDAC1 upon stimulation with PDGF-BB. By competing with Bax for VDAC1 binding, G6PD reduces VDAC1 oligomerization and counteracts VDAC1-Bax-mediated apoptosis, thereby accelerating neointimal hyperplasia. CONCLUSION Our study showed that the G6PD-VDAC1-Bax axis is a vital switch in VSMC apoptosis and is essential for VSMC phenotypic switching and neointimal hyperplasia, providing mechanistic insight into early VRDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Rui-Jie Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Jiang-Ling Niu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Zhi-Huan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Shi-Qing Mu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Tong Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Jie-Xin Pang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Li-Hua Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hu HH, Wang SQ, Shang HL, Lv HF, Chen BB, Gao SG, Chen XB. Roles and inhibitors of FAK in cancer: current advances and future directions. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1274209. [PMID: 38410129 PMCID: PMC10895298 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1274209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that exhibits high expression in various tumors and is associated with a poor prognosis. FAK activation promotes tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis via both kinase-dependent and kinase-independent pathways. Moreover, FAK is crucial for sustaining the tumor microenvironment. The inhibition of FAK impedes tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance in cancer. Therefore, developing targeted inhibitors against FAK presents a promising therapeutic strategy. To date, numerous FAK inhibitors, including IN10018, defactinib, GSK2256098, conteltinib, and APG-2449, have been developed, which have demonstrated positive anti-tumor effects in preclinical studies and are undergoing clinical trials for several types of tumors. Moreover, many novel FAK inhibitors are currently in preclinical studies to advance targeted therapy for tumors with aberrantly activated FAK. The benefits of FAK degraders, especially in terms of their scaffold function, are increasingly evident, holding promising potential for future clinical exploration and breakthroughs. This review aims to clarify FAK's role in cancer, offering a comprehensive overview of the current status and future prospects of FAK-targeted therapy and combination approaches. The goal is to provide valuable insights for advancing anti-cancer treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Hu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sai-Qi Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hai-Li Shang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui-Fang Lv
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bei-Bei Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - She-Gan Gao
- Henan Key Laboratory of Microbiome and Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wei X, Pan S, Wang Z, Chen J, Lu L, Cao Q, Song S, Zhang H, Liu X, Qu X, Lin X, Xu H. LAIR1 drives glioma progression by nuclear focal adhesion kinase dependent expressions of cyclin D1 and immunosuppressive chemokines/cytokines. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:684. [PMID: 37845206 PMCID: PMC10579300 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06199-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor-1 (LAIR1), an immune receptor containing immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibiory motifs (ITIMs), has emerged as an attractive target for cancer therapy. However, the intrinsic function of LAIR1 in gliomas remains unclear. In this study, the poor prognosis of glioma patients and the malignant proliferation of glioma cells in vitro and in vivo were found to be closely correlated with LAIR1. LAIR1 facilitates focal adhesion kinase (FAK) nuclear localization, resulting in increased transcription of cyclin D1 and chemokines/cytokines (CCL5, TGFβ2, and IL33). LAIR1 specifically supports in the immunosuppressive glioma microenvironment via CCL5-mediated microglia/macrophage polarization. SHP2Q510E (PTP domain mutant) or FAKNLM (non-nuclear localizing mutant) significantly reversed the LAIR1-induced growth enhancement in glioma cells. In addition, LAIR1Y251/281F (ITIMs mutant) and SHP2Q510E mutants significantly reduced FAK nuclear localization, as well as CCL5 and cyclin D1 expression. Further experiments revealed that the ITIMs of LAIR1 recruited SH2-containing phosphatase 2 (SHP2), which then interacted with FAK and induced FAK nuclear localization. This study uncovered a critical role for intrinsic LAIR1 in facilitating glioma malignant progression and demonstrated a requirement for LAIR1 and SHP2 to enhance FAK nuclear localization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Shushan Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zirui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jieru Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Li Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qizhi Cao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Shuling Song
- School of Gerontology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Huachang Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, 264003, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xianjun Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiukun Lin
- College of Marine Sciences, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou, 535011, Guangxi, P.R. China
| | - Huanli Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen CG, Yi CF, Chen CF, Tian LQ, Li LW, Yang L, Li ZM, He LQ. Inhibitory Effect of PPARδ Agonist GW501516 on Proliferation of Hypoxia-induced Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells by Regulating the mTOR Pathway. Curr Med Sci 2023; 43:979-987. [PMID: 37606736 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-023-2757-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the effects of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ (PPARδ) agonist GW501516 on the proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) induced by hypoxia, in order to search for new drugs for the treatment and prevention of pulmonary vascular remodeling. METHODS PASMCs were incubated with different concentrations of GW501516 (10, 30, 100 nmol/L) under the hypoxic condition. The proliferation was determined by a CCK-8 assay. The cell cycle progression was analyzed by flow cytometry. The expression of PPARδ, S phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2), and cell cycle-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 was detected by Western blotting. Then PASMCs were treated with 100 nmol/ L GW501516, 100 nmol/L mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor rapamycin and/or 2 µmol/L mTOR activator MHY1485 to explore the molecular mechanisms by which GW501516 reduces the proliferation of PASMCs. RESULTS The presented data demonstrated that hypoxia reduced the expression of PPARδ in an oxygen concentration- and time-dependent manner, and GW501516 decreased the proliferation of PASMCs induced by hypoxia by blocking the progression through the G0/G1 to S phase of the cell cycle. In accordance with these findings, GW501516 downregulated Skp2 and upregulated p27 in hypoxia-exposed PASMCs. Further experiments showed that rapamycin had similar effects as GW501516 in inhibiting cell proliferation, arresting the cell cycle, regulating the expression of Skp2 and p27, and inactivating mTOR in hypoxia-exposed PASMCs. Moreover, MHY1485 reversed all the beneficial effects of GW501516 on hypoxia-stimulated PASMCs. CONCLUSION GW501516 inhibited the proliferation of PASMCs induced by hypoxia through blocking the mTOR/Skp2/p27 signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Gui Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chun-Feng Yi
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chang-Fa Chen
- Shanghai Smartide Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Li-Qun Tian
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Li-Wei Li
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zuo-Min Li
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Li-Qun He
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tan X, Yan Y, Song B, Zhu S, Mei Q, Wu K. Focal adhesion kinase: from biological functions to therapeutic strategies. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:83. [PMID: 37749625 PMCID: PMC10519103 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00446-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a nonreceptor cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase, is a vital participant in primary cellular functions, such as proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion. In addition, FAK regulates cancer stem cell activities and contributes to the formation of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Importantly, increased FAK expression and activity are strongly associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes and metastatic characteristics in numerous tumors. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that modulating FAK activity by application of FAK inhibitors alone or in combination treatment regimens could be effective for cancer therapy. Based on these findings, several agents targeting FAK have been exploited in diverse preclinical tumor models. This article briefly describes the structure and function of FAK, as well as research progress on FAK inhibitors in combination therapies. We also discuss the challenges and future directions regarding anti-FAK combination therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ximin Tan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yuheng Yan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bin Song
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Shuangli Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi Mei
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
- Cancer Center, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xu P, Yang J, Chen Z, Zhang X, Xia Y, Wang S, Wang W, Xu Z. N6-methyladenosine modification of CENPF mRNA facilitates gastric cancer metastasis via regulating FAK nuclear export. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2023. [PMID: 37256823 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) modification is the most common modification that occurs in eukaryotes. Although substantial effort has been made in the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer (GC) in recent years, the prognosis of GC patients remains unsatisfactory. The regulatory mechanism between m6 A modification and GC development needs to be elucidated. In this study, we examined m6 A modification and the downstream mechanism in GC. METHODS Dot blotting assays, The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis, and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were used to measure the m6 A levels in GC tissues. Methylated RNA-immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing were performed to identify the targets of m6 A modification. Western blotting, Transwell, wound healing, and angiogenesis assays were conducted to examine the role of centromere protein F (CENPF) in GC in vitro. Xenograft, immunohistochemistry, and in vivo metastasis experiments were conducted to examine the role of CENPF in GC in vivo. Methylated RNA-immunoprecipitation-qPCR, RNA immunoprecipitation-qPCR and RNA pulldown assays were used to verify the m6 A modification sites of CENPF. Gain/loss-of-function and rescue experiments were conducted to determine the relationship between CENPF and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway in GC cells. Coimmunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence assays were performed to explore the proteins that interact with CENPF and elucidate the regulatory mechanisms between them. RESULTS CENPF was upregulated in GC and facilitated the metastasis of GC both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, increased m6 A modification of CENPF was mediated by methyltransferase 3, and this modified molecule could be recognized by heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1 (HNRNPA2B1), thereby promoting its mRNA stability. In addition, the metastatic phenotype of CENPF was dependent on the MAPK signaling pathway. Furthermore, CENPF could bind to FAK and promote its localization in the cytoplasm. Moreover, we discovered that high expression of CENPF was related to lymphatic invasion and overall survival in GC patients. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed that increased m6 A modification of CENPF facilitates the metastasis and angiogenesis of GC through the CENPF/FAK/MAPK and epithelial-mesenchymal transition axis. CENPF expression was correlated with the clinical features of GC patients; therefore, CENPF may serve as a prognostic marker of GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Xu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Zetian Chen
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Yiwen Xia
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Sen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Weizhi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Zekuan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
A review on regulation of cell cycle by extracellular matrix. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 232:123426. [PMID: 36708893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a network of structural proteins, glycoproteins and proteoglycans that assists independent cells in aggregating and forming highly organized functional structures. ECM serves numerous purposes and is an essential component of tissue structure and functions. Initially, the role of ECM was considered to be confined to passive functions like providing mechanical strength and structural identity to tissues, serving as barriers and platforms for cells. The doors to understanding ECM's proper role in tissue functioning opened with the discovery of cellular receptors, integrins to which ECM components binds and influences cellular activities. Understanding and utilizing ECM's potential to control cellular function has become a topic of much interest in recent decades, providing different outlooks to study processes involved in developmental programs, wound healing and tumour progression. On another front, the regulatory mechanisms operating to prevent errors in the cell cycle have been topics of a titanic amount of studies. This is expected as many diseases, most infamously cancer, are associated with defects in their functioning. This review focuses on how ECM, through different methods, influences the progression of the somatic cell cycle and provides deeper insights into molecular mechanisms of functional communication between adhesion complex, signalling pathways and cell cycle machinery.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jing J, Rui L, Junyuan S, Jinfeng Y, Zhihao H, Weiguo L, Zhenyu J. Small-molecule compounds inhibiting S-phase kinase-associated protein 2: A review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1122008. [PMID: 37089937 PMCID: PMC10113621 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1122008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) is a substrate-specific adaptor in Skp1-CUL1-ROC1-F-box E3 ubiquitin ligases and widely regarded as an oncogene. Therefore, Skp2 has remained as an active anticancer research topic since its discovery. Accordingly, the structure of Skp2 has been solved and numerous Skp2 inhibiting compounds have been identified. In this review, we would describe the structural features of Skp2, introduce the ubiquitination function of SCFSkp2, and summarize the diverse natural and synthetic Skp2 inhibiting compounds reported to date. The IC50 data of the Skp2 inhibitors or inhibiting compounds in various kinds of tumors at cellular levels implied that the cancer type, stage and pathological mechanisms should be taken into consideration when selecting Skp2-inhibiting compound for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Jing
- Schools of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Li Rui
- Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Sun Junyuan
- Schools of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yang Jinfeng
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hong Zhihao
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lu Weiguo
- Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Women′s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- *Correspondence: Lu Weiguo, ; Jia Zhenyu,
| | - Jia Zhenyu
- Institute of Occupation Diseases, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- *Correspondence: Lu Weiguo, ; Jia Zhenyu,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Murphy JM, Jeong K, Ahn EYE, Lim STS. Nuclear focal adhesion kinase induces APC/C activator protein CDH1-mediated cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 degradation and inhibits melanoma proliferation. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102013. [PMID: 35525274 PMCID: PMC9163754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) can promote unchecked cell proliferation and cancer progression. Although focal adhesion kinase (FAK) contributes to regulating cell cycle progression, the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that FAK plays a key role in cell cycle progression potentially through regulation of CDK4/6 protein expression. We show that FAK inhibition increased its nuclear localization and induced G1 arrest in B16F10 melanoma cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrate nuclear FAK associated with CDK4/6 and promoted their ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation through recruitment of CDC homolog 1 (CDH1), an activator and substrate recognition subunit of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome E3 ligase complex. We found the FAK N-terminal FERM domain acts as a scaffold to bring CDK4/6 and CDH1 within close proximity. However, overexpression of nonnuclear-localizing mutant FAK FERM failed to function as a scaffold for CDK4/6 and CDH1. Furthermore, shRNA knockdown of CDH1 increased CDK4/6 protein expression and blocked FAK inhibitor-induced reduction of CDK4/6 in B16F10 cells. In vivo, we show that pharmacological FAK inhibition reduced B16F10 tumor size, correlating with increased FAK nuclear localization and decreased CDK4/6 expression compared with vehicle controls. In patient-matched healthy skin and melanoma biopsies, we found FAK was mostly inactive and nuclear localized in healthy skin, whereas melanoma lesions showed increased active cytoplasmic FAK and elevated CDK4 expression. Taken together, our data demonstrate that FAK inhibition blocks tumor proliferation by inducing G1 arrest, in part through decreased CDK4/6 protein stability by nuclear FAK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James M Murphy
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Kyuho Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA
| | - Eun-Young Erin Ahn
- Department of Pathology, O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ssang-Taek Steve Lim
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Intimal Hyperplasia of Arteriovenous Fistula. Ann Vasc Surg 2022; 85:444-453. [PMID: 35472499 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Intimal hyperplasia (IH), a crucial histopathological injury, forms the basis of vascular stenosis and thrombogenesis. In addition, it is common in maladies such as stenosis at the anastomosis of arteriovenous fistula and restenosis after angioplasty. Various cellular and noncellular components play critical parts in the advancement of IH. This article reviews the distinctive components of IH, such as endothelial dysfunction, multiplication, and movement of vascular smooth muscle cells. Finally, in addition to synthesis of large amounts of extracellular matrix and inflammatory responses, which have frequently been studied in recent years, we offer a premise for clinical treatment with vascular smooth muscle cells.
Collapse
|
14
|
Pomella S, Cassandri M, Braghini MR, Marampon F, Alisi A, Rota R. New Insights on the Nuclear Functions and Targeting of FAK in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23041998. [PMID: 35216114 PMCID: PMC8874710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23041998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase over-expressed and activated in both adult and pediatric cancers, where it plays important roles in the regulation of pathogenesis and progression of the malignant phenotype. FAK exerts its functions in cancer by two different ways: a kinase activity in the cytoplasm, mainly dependent on the integrin signaling, and a scaffolding activity into the nucleus by networking with different gene expression regulators. For this reason, FAK has to be considered a target with high therapeutic values. Indeed, evidence suggests that FAK targeting could be effective, either alone or in combination, with other already available treatments. Here, we propose an overview of the novel insights about FAK’s structure and nuclear functions, with a special focus on the recent findings concerning the roles of this protein in cancer. Additionally, we provide a recent update on FAK inhibitors that are currently in clinical trials for patients with cancer, and discuss the challenge and future directions of drug-based anti-FAK targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pomella
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Matteo Cassandri
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (M.C.)
- Department of Radiotherapy, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Rita Braghini
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Francesco Marampon
- Department of Radiotherapy, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Anna Alisi
- Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (R.R.); Tel.: +39-06-68592186 (A.A.); +39-06-68592648 (R.R.)
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Oncohematology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (R.R.); Tel.: +39-06-68592186 (A.A.); +39-06-68592648 (R.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yuan B, Liu H, Pan X, Dong X, Qu LF, Sun J, Pan LL. LSD1 downregulates p21 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells and promotes neointima formation. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 198:114947. [PMID: 35143753 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Neointima formation is characterized by the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Although lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has critical functions in several diseases, its role in neointima formation remains to be clarified. In this study, we aimed to explore the crucial role of LSD1 on neointima formation using a carotid artery injury model in mice. We observed that aberrant LSD1 expression was increased in human and mouse stenotic arteries and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-treated VSMC. Furthermore, LSD1 knockdown significantly mitigated neointima formation in vivo and inhibited PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation in vitro. We further uncovered that LSD1 overexpression exhibited opposite phenotypes in vivo and in vitro. Finally, LSD1 knockdown inhibited VSMC proliferation by increasing p21 expression, which is associated with LSD1 mediated di-methylated histone H3 on lysine 4 (H3K4me2) modification. Taken together, our data suggest that LSD1 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neointima formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohui Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - He Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaohua Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaoliang Dong
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Le-Feng Qu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.
| | - Li-Long Pan
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wei Y, Wang Y, Liu N, Qi R, Xu Y, Li K, Feng Y, Shi B. A FAK Inhibitor Boosts Anti-PD1 Immunotherapy in a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Mouse Model. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:820446. [PMID: 35115949 PMCID: PMC8804348 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.820446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy has limited efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and does not benefit all patients. A FAK inhibitor (VS-4718) has been reported to improve the microenvironment in some tumors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the combination of the FAK inhibitor VS4718 and anti-PD1 for the treatment of HCC in a mouse model and its possible mechanism of action. The expression of FAK and infiltrated immune cells in human HCC from the data of TCGA were analyzed. A primary murine HCC model was established via protooncogene (c-Met/β-catenin) transfection. The pathological characteristics of tumors were examined after the mice were treated with VS4718 and/or anti-PD1 therapy. This study revealed that FAK is highly expressed in human HCC and is associated with poor prognosis of OS (overall survival) and PFS (progress free survival) in HCC patients. Immune cell infiltration (CD8+ T, Tregs, M0, M2, CAFs and MDSCs) was correlated with FAK expression. In the experimental HCC model, the combination of a FAK inhibitor VS4718 and an anti-PD1 antibody had a better effect than monotherapy against HCC. VS4718 reduced the number of Tregs and macrophages but increased the number of CD8+ T cells in HCC mice. Notably, FAK inhibitor promoted the expression of PD-L1 in HCC. This study suggested that combination of the FAK inhibitor VS4718 and anti-PD1 could be a potential therapy for HCC by improving the immune environment, reducing liver fibrosis and simultaneously preventing PD1 from binding to the increased PD-L1 induced by FAK inhibitor VS4718.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Wei
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Nanbin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Ran Qi
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Li
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Feng, ; Baomin Shi,
| | - Baomin Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Feng, ; Baomin Shi,
| |
Collapse
|