1
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Vitale E, Manicardi V, Gugnoni M, Torricelli F, Donati B, Muccioli S, Salviato E, Rossi T, Manzotti G, Piana S, Ciarrocchi A. Exploring the transcriptional cooperation between RUNX2 and its associated elncRNA RAIN. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:673. [PMID: 39271656 PMCID: PMC11399121 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-07058-x] [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] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Recent insights into the mechanisms controlling gene expression identified enhancer-associated long non-coding RNAs (elncRNAs) as master players of transcription in cancers. RUNX2, a mammalian RUNT-related transcription factor, is increasingly recognized in cancer biology for its role in supporting survival and progression also in thyroid cancer (TC). We recently identified, within the RUNX2 locus, a novel elncRNA that we named RAIN (RUNX2 associated intergenic lncRNA). We showed that RAIN and RUNX2 expression correlate in TC, both in vitro and in vivo, and that RAIN promotes RUNX2 expression by interacting with and affecting the activity of the RUNX2 P2 promoter through two distinct mechanisms. Here, we took forward these observations to explore the genome-wide transcriptional function of RAIN and its contribution to the RUNX2-dependent gene expression program in TC. By combining multiple omics data, we demonstrated that RAIN functionally cooperates with RUNX2 to the regulation of a subset of functionally related genes involved in promoting matrix remodeling, migration, and loss of differentiation. We showed that RAIN interacts with RUNX2 and its expression is required for the efficient recruitment of this TF to its target regulatory regions. In addition, our data revealed that besides RUNX2, RAIN governs a hierarchically organized complex transcriptional program by controlling a core of cancer-associated TFs that, in turn, orchestrate the expression of downstream genes. This evidence indicates that the functional cooperation observed between RAIN and RUNX2 can be a diffuse work mechanism for this elncRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Vitale
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Veronica Manicardi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Muccioli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Salviato
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Teresa Rossi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Simonetta Piana
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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2
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Kahnt AS, Häfner AK, Steinhilber D. The role of human 5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO) in carcinogenesis - a question of canonical and non-canonical functions. Oncogene 2024; 43:1319-1327. [PMID: 38575760 PMCID: PMC11065698 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03016-1] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO), a fatty acid oxygenase, is the central enzyme in leukotriene (LT) biosynthesis, potent arachidonic acid-derived lipid mediators released by innate immune cells, that control inflammatory and allergic responses. In addition, through interaction with 12- and 15-lipoxgenases, the enzyme is involved in the formation of omega-3 fatty acid-based oxylipins, which are thought to be involved in the resolution of inflammation. The expression of 5-LO is frequently deregulated in solid and liquid tumors, and there is strong evidence that the enzyme plays an important role in carcinogenesis. However, global inhibition of LT formation and signaling has not yet shown the desired success in clinical trials. Curiously, the release of 5-LO-derived lipid mediators from tumor cells is often low, and the exact mechanism by which 5-LO influences tumor cell function is poorly understood. Recent data now show that in addition to releasing oxylipins, 5-LO can also influence gene expression in a lipid mediator-independent manner. These non-canonical functions, including modulation of miRNA processing and transcription factor shuttling, most likely influence cancer cell function and the tumor microenvironment and might explain the low clinical efficacy of pharmacological strategies that previously only targeted oxylipin formation and signaling by 5-LO. This review summarizes the canonical and non-canonical functions of 5-LO with a particular focus on tumorigenesis, highlights unresolved issues, and suggests future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid S Kahnt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
| | - Ann-Kathrin Häfner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Dieter Steinhilber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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3
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Reggiani F, Talarico G, Gobbi G, Sauta E, Torricelli F, Manicardi V, Zanetti E, Orecchioni S, Falvo P, Piana S, Lococo F, Paci M, Bertolini F, Ciarrocchi A, Sancisi V. BET inhibitors drive Natural Killer activation in non-small cell lung cancer via BRD4 and SMAD3. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2567. [PMID: 38519469 PMCID: PMC10960013 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46778-8] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the most common lung cancer and one of the pioneer tumors in which immunotherapy has radically changed patients' outcomes. However, several issues are emerging and their implementation is required to optimize immunotherapy-based protocols. In this work, we investigate the ability of the Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal protein inhibitors (BETi) to stimulate a proficient anti-tumor immune response toward NSCLC. By using in vitro, ex-vivo, and in vivo models, we demonstrate that these epigenetic drugs specifically enhance Natural Killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity. BETi down-regulate a large set of NK inhibitory receptors, including several immune checkpoints (ICs), that are direct targets of the transcriptional cooperation between the BET protein BRD4 and the transcription factor SMAD3. Overall, BETi orchestrate an epigenetic reprogramming that leads to increased recognition of tumor cells and the killing ability of NK cells. Our results unveil the opportunity to exploit and repurpose these drugs in combination with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Reggiani
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Talarico
- Laboratory of Hematology-Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Onco-Tech Lab, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS and Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Gobbi
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sauta
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Veronica Manicardi
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Zanetti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Biobank, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Orecchioni
- Laboratory of Hematology-Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Onco-Tech Lab, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS and Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Falvo
- Laboratory of Hematology-Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Onco-Tech Lab, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS and Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simonetta Piana
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Biobank, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Filippo Lococo
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Paci
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Bertolini
- Laboratory of Hematology-Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Onco-Tech Lab, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS and Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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4
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Chen X, Wang L, Yang M, Zhao W, Tu J, Liu B, Yuan X. RUNX transcription factors: biological functions and implications in cancer. Clin Exp Med 2024; 24:50. [PMID: 38430423 PMCID: PMC10908630 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01281-0] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Runt-related transcription factors (RUNX) are a family of transcription factors that are essential for normal and malignant hematopoietic processes. Their most widely recognized role in malignancy is to promote the occurrence and development of acute myeloid leukemia. However, it is worth noting that during the last decade, studies of RUNX proteins in solid tumors have made considerable progress, suggesting that these proteins are directly involved in different stages of tumor development, including tumor initiation, progression, and invasion. RUNX proteins also play a role in tumor angiogenesis, the maintenance of tumor cell stemness, and resistance to antitumor drugs. These findings have led to the consideration of RUNX as a tumor biomarker. All RUNX proteins are involved in the occurrence and development of solid tumors, but the role of each RUNX protein in different tumors and the major signaling pathways involved are complicated by tumor heterogeneity and the interacting tumor microenvironment. Understanding how the dysregulation of RUNX in tumors affects normal biological processes is important to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which RUNX affects malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Chen
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Weiheng Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jingyao Tu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Xianglin Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jie Fang Road 1095, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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5
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Li Q, Wang Y, Meng X, Wang W, Duan F, Chen S, Zhang Y, Sheng Z, Gao Y, Zhou L. METTL16 inhibits papillary thyroid cancer tumorigenicity through m 6A/YTHDC2/SCD1-regulated lipid metabolism. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:81. [PMID: 38334797 PMCID: PMC10857971 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05146-x] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) stands as the leading cancer type among endocrine malignancies, and there exists a strong correlation between thyroid cancer and obesity. However, the clinical significance and molecular mechanism of lipid metabolism in the development of PTC remain unclear. In this study, it was demonstrated that the downregulation of METTL16 enhanced lipid metabolism and promoted the malignant progression of PTC. METTL16 was expressed at lower levels in PTC tissues because of DNMT1-mediated hypermethylation of its promoter. Loss- and gain-of-function studies clarified the effects of METTL16 on PTC progression. METTL16 overexpression increased the abundance of m6A in SCD1 cells, increasing RNA decay via the m6A reader YTHDC2. The SCD1 inhibitor A939572 inhibited growth and slowed down lipid metabolism in PTC cells. These results confirm the crucial role of METTL16 in restraining PTC progression through SCD1-activated lipid metabolism in cooperation with YTHDC2. This suggests that the combination of METTL16 and anti-SCD1 blockade might constitute an effective therapy for PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yaju Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Xiangshu Meng
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Feifan Duan
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Shuya Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yukun Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Zhiyong Sheng
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Yu Gao
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Bengbu Medical College Key Laboratory of Cancer Research and Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530021, China.
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6
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Zhang M, An Z, Jiang Y, Wei M, Li X, Wang Y, Wang H, Gong Y. Self-assembled redox-responsive BRD4 siRNA nanoparticles: fomulation and its in vitro delivery in gastric cancer cells. J Chemother 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38291982 DOI: 10.1080/1120009x.2024.2308980] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
With the development of newer biomarkers in the diagnosis of gastric cancer (GC), therapeutic targets are emerging and molecular-targeted therapy is in progress RNA interference has emerged as a promising method of gene targeting therapy. However, naked small interfering RNA (siRNA) is unstable and susceptible to degradation, so employing vectors for siRNA delivery is the focus of our research. Therefore, we developed LMWP modified PEG-SS-PEI to deliver siRNA targeting BRD4 (L-NPs/siBRD4) for GC therapy. L-NPs/siBRD4 were prepared by electrostatic interaction and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The release characteristics, cellular uptake and intracellular localization were also investigated. The in vitro anticancer activity of the prepared nanoparticles was analysed by MTT, Transwell invasion and wound healing assay. Quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to detect the effect of gene silencing. The results showed that the optimal N/P was 30 and the prepared L-NPs/siBRD4 uniformly distributed in the system with a spherical and regular shape. L-NPs/siBRD4 exhibited an accelerated release in GSH-containing media from 12h to 24h. The uptake of L-NPs/siBRD4 was enhanced and mainly co-localized in the lysosomes. After 6h incubation, LMWP modified PEG-SS-PEI helped siRNA escape from the lysosomes and diffused into the cytoplasm. L-NPs/siBRD4 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of cells. This might be related with the silence of BRD4, then inhibition of PI3K/Akt and c-Myc. Our results demonstrate that L-NPs/siBRD4 are a novel delivery system with anticancer, which may provide a more effective strategy for GC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhonghua An
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Yiming Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Meijiao Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiangbo Li
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Hongbo Wang
- Gastrointestinal Surgery Department, Jimo District People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanling Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
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7
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Wahi A, Manchanda N, Jain P, Jadhav HR. Targeting the epigenetic reader "BET" as a therapeutic strategy for cancer. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106833. [PMID: 37683545 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins have the ability to bind to acetylated lysine residues present in both histones and non-histone proteins. This binding is facilitated by the presence of tandem bromodomains. The regulatory role of BET proteins extends to chromatin dynamics, cellular processes, and disease progression. The BET family comprises of BRD 2, 3, 4 and BRDT. The BET proteins are a class of epigenetic readers that regulate the transcriptional activity of a multitude of genes that are involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Thus, targeting BET proteins has been identified as a potentially efficacious approach for the treatment of cancer. BET inhibitors (BETis) are known to interfere with the binding of BET proteins to acetylated lysine residues of chromatin, thereby leading to the suppression of transcription of several genes, including oncogenic transcription factors. Here in this review, we focus on role of Bromodomain and extra C-terminal (BET) proteins in cancer progression. Furthermore, numerous small-molecule inhibitors with pan-BET activity have been documented, with certain compounds currently undergoing clinical assessment. However, it is apparent that the clinical effectiveness of the present BET inhibitors is restricted, prompting the exploration of novel technologies to enhance their clinical outcomes and mitigate undesired adverse effects. Thus, strategies like development of selective BET-BD1, & BD2 inhibitors, dual and acting BET are also presented in this review and attempts to cover the chemistry needed for proper establishment of designed molecules into BRD have been made. Moreover, the review attempts to summarize the details of research till date and proposes a space for future development of BET inhibitor with diminished side effects. It can be concluded that discovery of isoform selective BET inhibitors can be a way forward in order to develop BET inhibitors with negligible side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Wahi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, Delhi, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Namish Manchanda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, Delhi, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Priti Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, Delhi, New Delhi 110017, India.
| | - Hemant R Jadhav
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani-Pilani Campus, Vidya Vihar Pilani, Rajasthan 333031, India
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8
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Zheng X, Diktonaite K, Qiu H. Epigenetic Reader Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4 in Aging-Related Vascular Pathologies and Diseases: Molecular Basis, Functional Relevance, and Clinical Potential. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1135. [PMID: 37509171 PMCID: PMC10376956 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071135] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is a key independent risk factor of various vascular diseases, for which the regulatory mechanisms remain largely unknown. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is a member of the Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal domain (BET) family and is an epigenetic reader playing diverse roles in regulating transcriptional elongation, chromatin remodeling, DNA damage response, and alternative splicing in various cells and tissues. While BRD4 was initially recognized for its involvement in cancer progression, recent studies have revealed that the aberrant expression and impaired function of BRD4 were highly associated with aging-related vascular pathology, affecting multiple key biological processes in the vascular cells and tissues, providing new insights into the understanding of vascular pathophysiology and pathogenesis of vascular diseases. This review summarizes the recent advances in BRD4 biological function, and the progression of the studies related to BRD4 in aging-associated vascular pathologies and diseases, including atherosclerosis, aortic aneurism vascular neointima formation, pulmonary hypertension, and essential hypertension, providing updated information to advance our understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms in vascular diseases during aging and paving the way for future research and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Zheng
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (X.Z.); (K.D.)
| | - Kotryna Diktonaite
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (X.Z.); (K.D.)
| | - Hongyu Qiu
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (X.Z.); (K.D.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Translational Cardiovascular Research Center, College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
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9
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Niu X, Zhang L, Wu Y, Zong Z, Wang B, Liu J, Zhang L, Zhou F. Biomolecular condensates: Formation mechanisms, biological functions, and therapeutic targets. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e223. [PMID: 36875159 PMCID: PMC9974629 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are cellular structures composed of membraneless assemblies comprising proteins or nucleic acids. The formation of these condensates requires components to change from a state of solubility separation from the surrounding environment by undergoing phase transition and condensation. Over the past decade, it has become widely appreciated that biomolecular condensates are ubiquitous in eukaryotic cells and play a vital role in physiological and pathological processes. These condensates may provide promising targets for the clinic research. Recently, a series of pathological and physiological processes have been found associated with the dysfunction of condensates, and a range of targets and methods have been demonstrated to modulate the formation of these condensates. A more extensive description of biomolecular condensates is urgently needed for the development of novel therapies. In this review, we summarized the current understanding of biomolecular condensates and the molecular mechanisms of their formation. Moreover, we reviewed the functions of condensates and therapeutic targets for diseases. We further highlighted the available regulatory targets and methods, discussed the significance and challenges of targeting these condensates. Reviewing the latest developments in biomolecular condensate research could be essential in translating our current knowledge on the use of condensates for clinical therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Niu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
| | - Yuchen Wu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First School of MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
| | - Zhi Zong
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Bin Wang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Jisheng Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Long Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical ScienceSoochow UniversitySuzhouChina
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10
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Gugnoni M, Lorenzini E, Faria do Valle I, Remondini D, Castellani G, Torricelli F, Sauta E, Donati B, Ragazzi M, Ghini F, Piana S, Ciarrocchi A, Manzotti G. Adding pieces to the puzzle of differentiated-to-anaplastic thyroid cancer evolution: the oncogene E2F7. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:99. [PMID: 36765037 PMCID: PMC9918458 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05603-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC) is the most aggressive and de-differentiated subtype of thyroid cancer. Many studies hypothesized that ATC derives from Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC) through a de-differentiation process triggered by specific molecular events still largely unknown. E2F7 is an atypical member of the E2F family. Known as cell cycle inhibitor and keeper of genomic stability, in specific contexts its function is oncogenic, guiding cancer progression. We performed a meta-analysis on 279 gene expression profiles, from 8 Gene Expression Omnibus patient samples datasets, to explore the causal relationship between DTC and ATC. We defined 3 specific gene signatures describing the evolution from normal thyroid tissue to DTC and ATC and validated them in a cohort of human surgically resected ATCs collected in our Institution. We identified E2F7 as a key player in the DTC-ATC transition and showed in vitro that its down-regulation reduced ATC cells' aggressiveness features. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq profiling allowed the identification of the E2F7 specific gene program, which is mainly related to cell cycle progression and DNA repair ability. Overall, this study identified a signature describing DTC de-differentiation toward ATC subtype and unveiled an E2F7-dependent transcriptional program supporting this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Lorenzini
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Daniel Remondini
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gastone Castellani
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sauta
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology and Advanced Technologies, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Ghini
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Simonetta Piana
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology and Advanced Technologies, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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11
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Hao RH, Guo Y, Wang C, Chen F, Di CX, Dong SS, Cao QL, Guo J, Rong Y, Yao S, Zhu DL, Chen YX, Chen H, Yang TL. Lineage-specific rearrangement of chromatin loops and epigenomic features during adipocytes and osteoblasts commitment. Cell Death Differ 2022; 29:2503-2518. [PMID: 35906483 PMCID: PMC9751090 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-022-01035-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) can be differentiated into adipocytes and osteoblasts. The processes are driven by the rewiring of chromatin architectures and transcriptomic/epigenomic changes. Here, we induced hMSCs to adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, and performed 2 kb resolution Hi-C experiments for chromatin loops detection. We also generated matched RNA-seq, ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq data for integrative analysis. After comprehensively comparing adipogenesis and osteogenesis, we quantitatively identified lineage-specific loops and screened out lineage-specific enhancers and open chromatin. We reveal that lineage-specific loops can activate gene expression and facilitate cell commitment through combining enhancers and accessible chromatin in a lineage-specific manner. We finally proposed loop-mediated regulatory networks and identified the controlling factors for adipocytes and osteoblasts determination. Functional experiments validated the lineage-specific regulation networks towards IRS2 and RUNX2 that are associated with adipogenesis and osteogenesis, respectively. These results are expected to help better understand the chromatin conformation determinants of hMSCs fate commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo-Han Hao
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yan Guo
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Chen Wang
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Fei Chen
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Chen-Xi Di
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Shan-Shan Dong
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Qi-Long Cao
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Research and Development Department, Qingdao Haier Biotech Co. Ltd, Qingdao, Shandong, 266109, P. R. China
| | - Jing Guo
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yu Rong
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Shi Yao
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, P. R. China
| | - Dong-Li Zhu
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Xiao Chen
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, P. R. China
| | - Hao Chen
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Tie-Lin Yang
- Biomedical Informatics & Genomics Center, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China.
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, P. R. China.
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12
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RUNX Proteins as Epigenetic Modulators in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223687. [PMID: 36429115 PMCID: PMC9688118 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RUNX proteins are highly conserved in metazoans and perform critical functions during development. Dysregulation of RUNX proteins through various molecular mechanisms facilitates the development and progression of various cancers, where different RUNX proteins show tumor type-specific functions and regulate different aspects of tumorigenesis by cross-talking with different signaling pathways such as Wnt, TGF-β, and Hippo. Molecularly, they could serve as transcription factors (TFs) to activate their direct target genes or interact with many other TFs to modulate chromatin architecture globally. Here, we review the current knowledge on the functions and regulations of RUNX proteins in different cancer types and highlight their potential role as epigenetic modulators in cancer.
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13
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Xie S, Chen M, Fang W, Liu S, Wu Q, Liu C, Xing Y, Shi W, Xu M, Zhang M, Chen S, Zeng X, Wang S, Deng W, Tang Q. Diminished arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase perturbs phase separation and transcriptional response of Runx2 to reverse pathological ventricular remodeling. EBioMedicine 2022; 86:104359. [PMID: 36395739 PMCID: PMC9672960 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (Alox5) belongs to a class of nonheme iron-containing dioxygenases involved in the catalysis of leukotriene biosynthesis. However, the effects of Alox5 itself on pathological cardiac remodeling and heart failure remain elusive. METHODS The role of Alox5 in pathological cardiac remodeling was investigated by Alox5 genetic depletion, AAV9-mediated overexpression in cardiomyocytes, and a bone marrow (BM) transplantation approach. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were used to explore the effects of Alox5 in vitro. Molecular and signaling pathways were revealed by CUT &Tag, IP-MS, RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses. FINDINGS Untargeted metabolomics showed that serum 5-HETE (a primary product of Alox5) levels were little changed in patients with cardiac hypertrophy, while Alox5 expression was significantly upregulated in murine hypertensive cardiac samples and human cardiac samples of hypertrophy, which prompted us to test whether high Alox5 levels under hypertensive stimuli were directly associated with pathologic myocardium in an enzymatic activity-independent manner. Herein, we revealed that Alox5 deficiency significantly ameliorated transverse aortic constriction (TAC)-induced hypertrophy. Cardiomyocyte-specific Alox5 depletion attenuated hypertensive ventricular remodeling. Conversely, cardiac-specifical Alox5 overexpression showed a pro-hypertrophic cardiac phenotype. Ablation of Alox5 in bone marrow-derived cells did not affect pathological cardiac remodeling and heart failure. Mechanically, Runx2 was identified as a target of Alox5. In this regard, Alox5 PEST domain could directly bind to Runx2 PTS domain, promoting nuclear localization of Runx2 in an enzymatic activity-independent manner, simultaneously contributed to liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of Runx2 at specific domain in the nucleus and increased transcription of EGFR in cardiomyocytes. Runx2 depletion alleviated hypertrophy in Ang II-pretreated Alox5-overexpressing cardiomyocytes. INTERPRETATION Overall, our study demonstrated that targeting Alox5 exerted a protective effect against cardiac remodeling and heart failure under hypertensive stimuli by disturbing LLPS of Runx2 and substantial reduction of EGFR transcription activation in cardiomyocytes. Our findings suggest that negative modulation of Alox5-Runx2 may provide a therapeutic approach against pathological cardiac remodeling and heart failure. FUNDING National Natural Science Foundation of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiyang Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengya Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenxi Fang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiqiang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingqing Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Xing
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenke Shi
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Man Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Si Chen
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China,Department of Cardiology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China,Corresponding author. Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan 430060, China.
| | - Qizhu Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China,Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases, Wuhan, China,Corresponding author. Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road 238, Wuhan 430060, China.
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14
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Liu SF, Nambiar Veetil N, Li Q, Kucherenko MM, Knosalla C, Kuebler WM. Pulmonary hypertension: Linking inflammation and pulmonary arterial stiffening. Front Immunol 2022; 13:959209. [PMID: 36275740 PMCID: PMC9579293 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.959209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive disease that arises from multiple etiologies and ultimately leads to right heart failure as the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality. In patients, distinct inflammatory responses are a prominent feature in different types of PH, and various immunomodulatory interventions have been shown to modulate disease development and progression in animal models. Specifically, PH-associated inflammation comprises infiltration of both innate and adaptive immune cells into the vascular wall of the pulmonary vasculature—specifically in pulmonary vascular lesions—as well as increased levels of cytokines and chemokines in circulating blood and in the perivascular tissue of pulmonary arteries (PAs). Previous studies suggest that altered hemodynamic forces cause lung endothelial dysfunction and, in turn, adherence of immune cells and release of inflammatory mediators, while the resulting perivascular inflammation, in turn, promotes vascular remodeling and the progression of PH. As such, a vicious cycle of endothelial activation, inflammation, and vascular remodeling may develop and drive the disease process. PA stiffening constitutes an emerging research area in PH, with relevance in PH diagnostics, prognostics, and as a therapeutic target. With respect to its prognostic value, PA stiffness rivals the well-established measurement of pulmonary vascular resistance as a predictor of disease outcome. Vascular remodeling of the arterial extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as vascular calcification, smooth muscle cell stiffening, vascular wall thickening, and tissue fibrosis contribute to PA stiffening. While associations between inflammation and vascular stiffening are well-established in systemic vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis or the vascular manifestations of systemic sclerosis, a similar connection between inflammatory processes and PA stiffening has so far not been addressed in the context of PH. In this review, we discuss potential links between inflammation and PA stiffening with a specific focus on vascular calcification and ECM remodeling in PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Fei Liu
- Institute of Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
| | - Netra Nambiar Veetil
- Institute of Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, German Heart Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Qiuhua Li
- Institute of Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
| | - Mariya M. Kucherenko
- Institute of Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, German Heart Center, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Mariya M. Kucherenko,
| | - Christoph Knosalla
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, German Heart Center, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang M. Kuebler
- Institute of Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Gießen, Germany
- The Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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15
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Vitale E, Sauta E, Gugnoni M, Torricelli F, Manicardi V, Ciarrocchi A. A multimodal integrative approach to model transcriptional addiction of thyroid cancer on RUNX2. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:892-896. [PMID: 35451571 PMCID: PMC9456690 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Vitale
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41121, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sauta
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy.,Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, 27100, Italy
| | - Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Veronica Manicardi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41121, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
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16
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Binay S, Kaptan E. Transcription factor Runx2 changes the expression of some matricellular proteins in metastatic breast cancer cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6433-6441. [PMID: 35441354 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07457-3] [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: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Runx2 is one of the runt-related genes that are overexpressed in human cancers and contribute to metastasis. The cancer cell metastasis requires modifications of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and reduction in ECM-cell interaction. This process is performed by various enzymes and proteins secreted by cancer and surrounding cells. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the Runx2 transcription factor on the expression of matricellular proteins such as HPA1, LOX, SPARC, and OPN, which have important roles in ECM modification and ECM-cell interaction in human breast cancer. Also, the changes in their associated oncogenic pathways including Akt, Erk, FAK activities, and c-jun protein expression were investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS Runx2 knockdown model was created using runx2 siRNA in MDA-MB-231 human metastatic breast cancer cells. The changes in the mRNA and protein expressions of ECM proteins were shown by the qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. The results showed that there was a decrease in both mRNA and protein expressions of HPA1, SPARC, and LOX, whereas there was no change in those of OPN. Phosphorylated Akt, Erk, FAK levels, and protein expression of c-jun, however, decreased in the cells. CONCLUSION Our results revealed that Runx2 affected matricellular protein expression, which is important for metastasis and invasion of breast cancer. Hence, we have concluded that runx2 appears to be efficient for regulating breast cancer metastasis through an expression of matricellular proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevgi Binay
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Engin Kaptan
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey.
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17
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Huang T, Wu Q, Huang H, Zhang C, Wang L, Wang L, Liu Y, Li W, Zhang J, Liu Y. Expression of GALNT8 and O-glycosylation of BMP receptor 1A suppress breast cancer cell proliferation by upregulating ERα levels. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2022; 1866:130046. [PMID: 34743989 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.130046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucin-type O-glycosylation is one of the most abundant types of O-glycosylation and plays important roles in various human carcinomas, including breast cancer. A large family of polypeptide N-acetyl-α-galactosaminyltransferases (GALNTs) initiate and define sites of mucin-type O-glycosylation. However, the specific mechanisms underlying GALNT8 expression and its roles in tumorigenesis remain poorly characterized. METHODS GALNT8 expression was assessed in 140 breast cancer patients. Immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation, lectin blot and quantitative real-time PCR were used to investigate the expression of GALNT8 and its role in regulating estrogen receptor α (ERα) via bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. RESULTS The expression of GALNT8 was associated with breast cancer patient survival. GALNT8 downregulation was associated with a reduction in ERα levels, while GALNT8 overexpression elevated the transcription and protein levels of ERα and suppressed colony formation, suggesting an important role of GALNT8 in cancer cell proliferation. Conversely, GALNT8 knockdown led to the inhibition of BMP/SMAD/RUNX2 axis, which decreased ERα transcription. Further analysis suggested that BMP receptor 1A (BMPR1A) was O-GalNAcylated. Sites mutation of BMPR1A indicated that Thr137 and Ser37/Ser39/Ser44/Thr49 of BMPR1A were the main O-glycosylation sites. Although we cannot exclude the indirect effect of GALNT8, our results demonstrated that the expression of GALNT8 and O-glycosylation of BMPR1A play key roles in regulating the activity of BMP/SMAD/RUNX2 signaling and ERα expression. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that GALNT8 expression and abnormal O-GalNAcylation of BMPR1A increase ERα expression and suppress breast cancer cell proliferation by modulating the BMP signaling pathway. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Our results identify the involvement of GALNT8 in regulating ERα expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianmiao Huang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Huang Huang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Liping Wang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Lingyan Wang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Yangzhi Liu
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Wenli Li
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China
| | - Jianing Zhang
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China..
| | - Yubo Liu
- School of Life Science & Pharmacy, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 122406, China..
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18
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No Need to Stick Together to Be Connected: Multiple Types of Enhancers' Networking. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205201. [PMID: 34680347 PMCID: PMC8533737 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205201] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Transcription regulation programs require the functional interaction of distal and proximal regulatory regions, interacting by specific 3D chromatin configurations. Enhancers are cis-acting regulatory elements able to promote gene expression regardless their orientation and distance from the transcription starting site. Their systematic mapping by genome-wide chromatin profiling and chromosome conformation analysis, combined with the development of gene-editing approaches to modulate their function, revealed that many enhancers work together to fine-tune the expression of their target genes. This review aim to describe the functions of different types of enhancers and the modalities of enhancers’ interaction, focusing on their role in the regulation of complex biological processes like cancer development. Abstract The control of gene expression at a transcriptional level requires a widespread landscape of regulatory elements. Central to these regulatory circuits are enhancers (ENHs), which are defined as cis-acting DNA elements able to increase the transcription of a target gene in a distance- and orientation-independent manner. ENHs are not independent functional elements but work in a complex and dynamic cooperative network, constituting the building blocks of multimodular domains of gene expression regulation. The information from each of these elements converges on the target promoter, contributing to improving the precision and sharpness of gene modulation. ENHs’ interplay varies in its nature and extent, ranging from an additive to redundant effect depending on contexts. Moving from super-enhancers that drive the high expression levels of identity genes, to shadow-enhancers, whose redundant functions contribute to buffering the variation in gene expression, this review aims to describe the different modalities of ENHs’ interaction and their role in the regulation of complex biological processes like cancer development.
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Motaei J, Salmaninejad A, Jamali E, Khorsand I, Ahmadvand M, Shabani S, Karimi F, Nazari MS, Ketabchi G, Naqipour F. Molecular Genetics of Cleidocranial Dysplasia. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2021; 40:442-454. [PMID: 31984822 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2019.1710792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a genetic disorder with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. CCD characterized by abnormal clavicles, patent sutures and fontenelles, supernumerary teeth and short stature. Approximately 60-70% of CCD patients have mutations in the RUNX2 gene. The RUNX2 gene is an essential transcription factor for chondrocyte maturation, osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. Runx2 regulates mesenchymal cell proliferation in sutures and suture closure by inducing the signaling pathways of the genes of Fgf, Pthlh, hedgehog and Wnt. Material and Methods: We summarized molecular genetics aspects of CCD. Result: Approximately 94% of CCD patients have dental anomalies, the most common of which are supernumerary tooth. Dental anomalies are not determined solely by gene mutations of RUNX2, but are also affected by modifier genes, environmental factors, epigenetic factors and copy number variations. Conclusion: a definite diagnosis of CCD should include the patient's clinical history, symptoms and signs, as well as genetic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamshid Motaei
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical Genetics Research Center, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Arash Salmaninejad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical Genetics Research Center, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Jamali
- Department of Biology, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Imaneh Khorsand
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ahmadvand
- Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sasan Shabani
- Department of Optometry, School of Para Medical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farshid Karimi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Nazari
- Postgraduate Student, Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Golsa Ketabchi
- Postgraduate Student, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Naqipour
- Postgraduate Student, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
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20
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Zhou Y, Wei LL, Zhang RP, Han CW, Cao Y. Globular adiponectin inhibits osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells through the PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. J Mol Histol 2021; 52:1067-1080. [PMID: 34398360 PMCID: PMC8487883 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-10012-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Lipid metabolism is closely related to the improvement of vascular calcification (VC) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Globular adiponectin (gAd) has been reported to be involved in the development of VC in CKD, but the detailed regulatory role remains unclear. The present study is aimed to investigate the biological function and the underlying regulation mechanism of gAd in the process of VC during CKD. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) calcification was determined by Alizarin Red S staining. Protein signaling related with VC was tested by western blotting. The expression and intracellular localization of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) was detected by immunofluorescence and uraemic rat with VC was established by a two-step nephrectomy. Combined with the results of Alizarin Red S staining, we discovered that β-glycerophosphate (β-Gp)-induced the osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs was significantly reversed by gAd treatment. Along with the VSMCs calcification and the increase of Runx2 in β-Gp-exposed VSMCs, the activities of protein kinase B (AKT) and Wnt/β-catenin pathway were enhanced, but that were counteracted by the exposure of gAd in rat and human VSMCs. After administration with agonists of the Wnt (SKL2001) and AKT (SC79), there appeared more osteoblastic differentiation and higher expression of Runx2 in gAd-treated VSMCs, but showing lower impact in the presence of SC79 than that in the presence of SKL2001. In the in vivo experiments, intravenous injection of gAd also significantly inhibited VC and Runx2 level in uraemic rat in a dose-dependent manner, possibly through regulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This study demonstrates that gAd ameliorates osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs possibly by blocking PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling transduction. The findings provide an important foundation for gAd in treating VC in kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhou
- Laboratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No.2 Yinghua Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Li-Long Wei
- Laboratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No.2 Yinghua Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Rui-Ping Zhang
- Laboratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No.2 Yinghua Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Cheng-Wu Han
- Laboratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No.2 Yinghua Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yongtong Cao
- Laboratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, No.2 Yinghua Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China.
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21
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Sweed N, Kim HJ, Hultenby K, Barros R, Parini P, Sancisi V, Strandvik B, Gabbi C. Liver X receptor β regulates bile volume and the expression of aquaporins and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in the gallbladder. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2021; 321:G243-G251. [PMID: 34259574 PMCID: PMC8815792 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00024.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The gallbladder is considered an important organ in maintaining digestive and metabolic homeostasis. Given that therapeutic options for gallbladder diseases are often limited to cholecystectomy, understanding gallbladder pathophysiology is essential in developing novel therapeutic strategies. Since liver X receptor β (LXRβ), an oxysterol-activated transcription factor, is strongly expressed in gallbladder cholangiocytes, the aim was to investigate LXRβ physiological function in the gallbladder. Thus, we studied the gallbladders of WT and LXRβ-/- male mice using immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, qRT-PCR, bile duct cannulation, bile and blood biochemistry, and duodenal pH measurements. LXRβ-/- mice presented a large gallbladder bile volume with high duodenal mRNA levels of the vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), a strong mediator of gallbladder relaxation. LXRβ-/- gallbladders showed low mRNA and protein expression of Aquaporin-1, Aquaporin-8, and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). A cystic fibrosis-resembling phenotype was evident in the liver showing high serum cholestatic markers and the presence of reactive cholangiocytes. For LXRβ being a transcription factor, we identified eight putative binding sites of LXR on the promoter and enhancer of the Cftr gene, suggesting Cftr as a novel LXRβ regulated gene. In conclusion, LXRβ was recognized as a regulator of gallbladder bile volume through multiple mechanisms involving CFTR and aquaporins.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This report reveals a novel and specific role of the nuclear receptor liver X receptor β (LXRβ) in controlling biliary tree pathophysiology. LXRβ-/- mice have high gallbladder bile volume and are affected by a cholangiopathy that resembles cystic fibrosis. We found LXRβ to regulate the expression of both aquaporins water channels and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. This opens a new field in biliary tree pathophysiology, enlightening a possible transcription factor controlling CFTR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Sweed
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Hyun-Jin Kim
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Kjell Hultenby
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, NEO, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rodrigo Barros
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Paoo Parini
- Division of Clinical Chemistry, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL Reggio Emilia-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Birgitta Strandvik
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, NEO, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Chiara Gabbi
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, NEO, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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García-Gutiérrez P, García-Domínguez M. BETting on a Transcriptional Deficit as the Main Cause for Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:709232. [PMID: 34386522 PMCID: PMC8353280 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.709232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) is a human developmental syndrome with complex multisystem phenotypic features. It has been traditionally considered a cohesinopathy together with other phenotypically related diseases because of their association with mutations in subunits of the cohesin complex. Despite some overlap, the clinical manifestations of cohesinopathies vary considerably and, although their precise molecular mechanisms are not well defined yet, the potential pathomechanisms underlying these diverse developmental defects have been theoretically linked to alterations of the cohesin complex function. The cohesin complex plays a critical role in sister chromatid cohesion, but this function is not affected in CdLS. In the last decades, a non-cohesion-related function of this complex on transcriptional regulation has been well established and CdLS pathoetiology has been recently associated to gene expression deregulation. Up to 70% of CdLS cases are linked to mutations in the cohesin-loading factor NIPBL, which has been shown to play a prominent function on chromatin architecture and transcriptional regulation. Therefore, it has been suggested that CdLS can be considered a transcriptomopathy. Actually, CdLS-like phenotypes have been associated to mutations in chromatin-associated proteins, as KMT2A, AFF4, EP300, TAF6, SETD5, SMARCB1, MAU2, ZMYND11, MED13L, PHIP, ARID1B, NAA10, BRD4 or ANKRD11, most of which have no known direct association with cohesin. In the case of BRD4, a critical highly investigated transcriptional coregulator, an interaction with NIPBL has been recently revealed, providing evidence on their cooperation in transcriptional regulation of developmentally important genes. This new finding reinforces the notion of an altered gene expression program during development as the major etiological basis for CdLS. In this review, we intend to integrate the recent available evidence on the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical manifestations of CdLS, highlighting data that favors a transcription-centered framework, which support the idea that CdLS could be conceptualized as a transcriptomopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo García-Gutiérrez
- Andalusian Centre for Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine-CABIMER, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla-Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
| | - Mario García-Domínguez
- Andalusian Centre for Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine-CABIMER, CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla-Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
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23
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Meng F, Zhao H, Zhu B, Zhang T, Yang M, Li Y, Han Y, Jiang J. Genomic editing of intronic enhancers unveils their role in fine-tuning tissue-specific gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana. THE PLANT CELL 2021; 33:1997-2014. [PMID: 33764459 PMCID: PMC8290289 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koab093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Enhancers located in introns are abundant and play a major role in the regulation of gene expression in mammalian species. By contrast, the functions of intronic enhancers in plants have largely been unexplored and only a handful of plant intronic enhancers have been reported. We performed a genome-wide prediction of intronic enhancers in Arabidopsis thaliana using open chromatin signatures based on DNase I sequencing. We identified 941 candidate intronic enhancers associated with 806 genes in seedling tissue and 1,271 intronic enhancers associated with 1,069 genes in floral tissue. We validated the function of 15 of 21 (71%) of the predicted intronic enhancers in transgenic assays using a reporter gene. We also created deletion lines of three intronic enhancers associated with two different genes using CRISPR/Cas. Deletion of these enhancers, which span key transcription factor binding sites, did not abolish gene expression but caused varying levels of transcriptional repression of their cognate genes. Remarkably, the transcriptional repression of the deletion lines occurred at specific developmental stages and resulted in distinct phenotypic effects on plant morphology and development. Clearly, these three intronic enhancers are important in fine-tuning tissue- and development-specific expression of their cognate genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanli Meng
- Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology in Chinese Ministry of Education, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Hainan Zhao
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Biological Science, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610101, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genomics and Molecular Breeding/Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Mingyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology in Chinese Ministry of Education, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology in Chinese Ministry of Education, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yingpeng Han
- Key Laboratory of Soybean Biology in Chinese Ministry of Education, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jiming Jiang
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Michigan State University AgBioResearch, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Author for correspondence:
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24
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Lin X, Zhou B, Ma J. Significance of LINC00460 in the progression and prognosis in digestive tract tumors. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 46:628-636. [PMID: 34275932 PMCID: PMC10930199 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2021.200975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The long intergic non-protein coding RNA 460 (LINC00460) is abnormally highly expressed in gastrointestinal tumors and plays an important role in promoting tumor formation and development. LINC00460 is mainly distributed in cytoplasm and has many abnormal gene variants of single nucleotide polymorphism in tumors. LINC00460 can promote the proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, radiotherapy and chemotherapy resistance, inhibit the apoptosis of tumor cells, and further promote the malignant progression of tumors via involving in chromatin state maintenance, methylation modification, endogenous competition and transcriptional regulation. It may serve as a valuable tumor marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Lin
- Medical Research Center, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China.
| | - Bo Zhou
- Medical Research Center, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Medical Research Center, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China.
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25
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Zhao W, Yang H, Chai J, Xing L. RUNX2 as a promising therapeutic target for malignant tumors. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:2539-2548. [PMID: 33758548 PMCID: PMC7981165 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s302173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor runt-related protein 2 (RUNX2) has an important impact on the transformation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to osteoblasts. Further studies have shown that RUNX2 plays a key role in the invasion and metastasis of cancers. RUNX2 is a "key" molecule in the regulatory network comprised of multiple signaling pathways upstream and its target downstream molecules. Due to the complex regulatory mechanisms of RUNX2, the specific mechanism underlying the occurrence, development and prognosis of malignant tumors has not been fully understood. Currently, RUNX2 as a promising therapeutic target for cancers has become a research hotspot. Herein, we reviewed the current literature on the modulatory functions and mechanisms of RUNX2 in the development of malignant tumors, aiming to explore its potential clinical application in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhu Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, Binzhou People’s Hospital, Binzhou, 256610, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiying Yang
- Department of Nursing, Binzhou People’s Hospital, Binzhou, 256610, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Chai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ligang Xing
- Department of Radiology, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, 250117, People’s Republic of China
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Pistoni M, Rossi T, Donati B, Torricelli F, Polano M, Ciarrocchi A. Long Noncoding RNA NEAT1 Acts as a Molecular Switch for BRD4 Transcriptional Activity and Mediates Repression of BRD4/WDR5 Target Genes. Mol Cancer Res 2021; 19:799-811. [PMID: 33547232 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BRD4 is an epigenome reader known to exert key roles at the interface between chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation, and is primarily known for its role in promoting gene expression. In selective contexts, however, BRD4 may work as negative regulator of transcription. Here, we reported that BRD4 binds several long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA). Among these, the lncRNA NEAT1 was found to interfere with BRD4 transcriptional activity. Mechanistically, lncNEAT1 forms a complex with BRD4 and WDR5 and maintains them in a low-activity state. Treatment with Bromodomains and Extraterminal (BET) inhibitor caused the lncRNA NEAT1 to dissociate from the BRD4/WDR5 complex, restored the acetyl-transferase capacity of BRD4, and restored the availability of WDR5 to promote histone trimethylation, thereby promoting BRD4/WDR5 transcriptional activity and activation of target gene expression. In addition, the lncRNA NEAT1 then became available to bind and to inhibit EZH2, cooperatively increasing transcriptional activation. IMPLICATIONS: Our results revealed an epigenetic program that involves the interaction between the lncRNA NEAT1 and BRD4, functioning as a molecular switch between BRD4's activator and repressor chromatin complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariaelena Pistoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Teresa Rossi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Polano
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Gugnoni M, Manicardi V, Torricelli F, Sauta E, Bellazzi R, Manzotti G, Vitale E, de Biase D, Piana S, Ciarrocchi A. Linc00941 Is a Novel Transforming Growth Factor β Target That Primes Papillary Thyroid Cancer Metastatic Behavior by Regulating the Expression of Cadherin 6. Thyroid 2021; 31:247-263. [PMID: 32495722 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: Papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) are common, usually indolent malignancies. Still, a small but significant percentage of patients have aggressive tumors and develop distant metastases leading to death. Currently, it is not possible to discriminate aggressive lesions due to lack of prognostic markers. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are selectively expressed in a context-dependent manner, are expected to represent a new landscape to search for molecular discriminants. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is a multifunctional cytokine that fosters epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metastatic spreading. In PTCs, it triggers the expression of the metastatic marker Cadherin 6 (CDH6). Here, we investigated the TGFβ-dependent lncRNAs that may cooperate to potentiate PTC aggressiveness. Methods: We used a genome-wide approach to map enhancer (ENH)-associated lncRNAs under TGFβ control. Linc00941 was selected and validated using functional in vitro assays. A combined approach using bioinformatic analyses of the thyroid cancer (THCA)-the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) dataset and RNA-seq analysis was used to identify the processes in which linc00941 was involved in and the genes under its regulation. Correlation with clinical data was performed to evaluate the potential of this lncRNA and its targets as prognostic markers in THCA. Results: Linc00941 was identified as transcribed starting from one of the TGFβ-induced ENHs. Linc00941 expression was significantly higher in aggressive cancer both in the TCGA dataset and in a separate validation cohort from our institution. Loss of function assays for linc00941 showed that it promotes response to stimuli and invasiveness while restraining proliferation in PTC cells, a typical phenotype of metastatic cells. From the integration of TCGA data and linc00941 knockdown RNA-seq profiling, we identified 77 genes under the regulation of this lncRNA. Among these, we found the prometastatic gene CDH6. Linc00941 knockdown partially recapitulates the effects observed upon CDH6 silencing, promoting cell cytoskeleton and membrane adhesions rearrangements and autophagy. The combined expression of CDH6 and linc00941 is a distinctive feature of highly aggressive PTC lesions. Conclusions: Our data provide new insights into the biology driving metastasis in PTCs and highlight how lncRNAs cooperate with coding transcripts to sustain these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Veronica Manicardi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sauta
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Bellazzi
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Emanuele Vitale
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simonetta Piana
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology and Advanced Technologies, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Ju L, Hu P, Chen P, Wu J, Li Z, Qiu Z, Cheng J, Huang F. Corydalis Saxicola Bunting Total Alkaloids Attenuate Walker 256-Induced Bone Pain and Osteoclastogenesis by Suppressing RANKL-Induced NF-κB and c-Fos/NFATc1 Pathways in Rats. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:609119. [PMID: 33574755 PMCID: PMC7870471 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.609119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic bone pain is characterized by insufferable bone pain and abnormal bone structure. A major goal of bone cancer treatment is to ameliorate osteolytic lesion induced by tumor cells. Corydalis saxicola Bunting total alkaloids (CSBTA), the alkaloid compounds extracted from the root of C. saxicola Bunting, have been shown to possess anticancer and analgesic properties. In this study, we aimed to verify whether CSBTA could relieve cancer induced bone pain and inhibit osteoclastogenesis. The in vivo results showed that CSBTA ameliorated Walker 256 induced bone pain and osteoporosis in rats. Histopathological changes also supported that CSBTA inhibited Walker 256 cell-mediated osteolysis. Further in vitro analysis confirmed that CSBTA reduced the expression of RANKL and downregulate the level of RANKL/OPG ratio in breast cancer cells. Moreover, CSBTA could inhibit osteoclastogenesis by suppressing RANKL-induced NF-κB and c-Fos/NFATc1 pathways. Collectively, this study demonstrated that CSBTA could attenuate cancer induced bone pain via a novel mechanism. Therefore, CSBTA might be a promising candidate drug for metastatic bone pain patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjie Ju
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peipei Hu
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiejie Wu
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhuoqun Li
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Zhongshan Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Nanjing Economic and Technological Development Zone, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhixia Qiu
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Cheng
- Nanjing Zhongshan Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Nanjing Economic and Technological Development Zone, Nanjing, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Department of Chinese Pharmacology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Bányai L, Trexler M, Kerekes K, Csuka O, Patthy L. Use of signals of positive and negative selection to distinguish cancer genes and passenger genes. eLife 2021; 10:e59629. [PMID: 33427197 PMCID: PMC7877913 DOI: 10.7554/elife.59629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A major goal of cancer genomics is to identify all genes that play critical roles in carcinogenesis. Most approaches focused on genes positively selected for mutations that drive carcinogenesis and neglected the role of negative selection. Some studies have actually concluded that negative selection has no role in cancer evolution. We have re-examined the role of negative selection in tumor evolution through the analysis of the patterns of somatic mutations affecting the coding sequences of human genes. Our analyses have confirmed that tumor suppressor genes are positively selected for inactivating mutations, oncogenes, however, were found to display signals of both negative selection for inactivating mutations and positive selection for activating mutations. Significantly, we have identified numerous human genes that show signs of strong negative selection during tumor evolution, suggesting that their functional integrity is essential for the growth and survival of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Bányai
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural SciencesBudapestHungary
| | - Maria Trexler
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural SciencesBudapestHungary
| | - Krisztina Kerekes
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural SciencesBudapestHungary
| | - Orsolya Csuka
- Department of Pathogenetics, National Institute of OncologyBudapestHungary
| | - László Patthy
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural SciencesBudapestHungary
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30
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Li L, Xie W, Gui Y, Zheng XL. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 and its role in cardiovascular diseases. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:4829-4840. [PMID: 33345363 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), a chromatin-binding protein, is involved in the development of various tumors. Recent evidence suggests that BRD4 also plays a significant role in cardiovascular diseases, such as ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and cardiac hypertrophy. This review summarizes the roles of BRD4 as a potential regulator of various pathophysiological processes in cardiovascular diseases, implicating that BRD4 may be a new therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Key Laboratory for Atherosclerology of Hunan Province, Medical Research Center, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Wei Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Anatomy, Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Gui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Xi-Long Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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31
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Glucose-induced microRNA-218 suppresses the proliferation and promotes the apoptosis of human retinal pigment epithelium cells by targeting RUNX2. Biosci Rep 2020; 39:221484. [PMID: 31830266 PMCID: PMC6928524 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20192580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MicroRNA-218 (miR-218) critical for preventing the progression of numerous diseases, including diseases of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). However, the mechanism by which miR-218 regulates the PRE in humans remains largely unknown. Our study investigated the effects of glucose-induced miR-218 expression on human RPE cells (ARPE-19), as well as its targeted regulatory effect. METHODS The levels of miR-218 and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) expression were investigated by RT-qPCR or Western blot assays. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry, and Hoechst staining. A luciferase reporter assay was performed to determine whether Runx2 is a target gene of miR-218. RESULTS Our results showed that glucose up-regulated miR-218 expression, suppressed proliferation, and induced the apoptosis of ARPE-19 cells. We verified that miR-218 could inhibit the proliferation and facilitate the apoptosis of ARPE-19 cells, while inhibition of miR-218 expression produced the opposite effects. In terms of mechanism, we demonstrated that RUNX2 was a direct target of miR-218. Functional experiments showed that Runx2 served as a miR-218 target to help inhibit the proliferation and induction of apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest the miR-218/Runx2 axis as a potential target for treating diabetic retinopathy (DR).
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Wu X, Huang J, Yang Z, Zhu Y, Zhang Y, Wang J, Yao W. MicroRNA-221-3p is related to survival and promotes tumour progression in pancreatic cancer: a comprehensive study on functions and clinicopathological value. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:443. [PMID: 32943991 PMCID: PMC7488115 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01529-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The microRNA miR-221-3p has previously been found to be an underlying biomarker of pancreatic cancer. However, the mechanisms of miR-221-3p underlying its role in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis, proliferation capability, invasion ability, drug resistance and apoptosis and the clinicopathological value of miR-221-3p have not been thoroughly studied. Methods Based on microarray and miRNA-sequencing data extracted from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), relevant literature, and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), we explored clinicopathological features and the expression of miR-221-3p to determine its clinical effect in pancreatic cancer. Proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and in vitro cytotoxicity tests were selected to examine the roles of mir-221-3p. In addition, several miR-221-3p functional analyses were conducted, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analyses, to examine gene interactions with miR-221-3p. Results The findings of integrated multi-analysis revealed higher miR-221-3p expression in pancreatic cancer tissues and blood than that in para-carcinoma samples (SMD of miR-221-3p: 1.52; 95% CI 0.96, 2.08). MiR-221-3p is related to survival both in pancreatic cancer and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients. Cell experiments demonstrated that miR-221-3p promotes pancreatic cancer cell proliferation capability, migration ability, invasion ability, and drug resistance but inhibits apoptosis. Further pancreatic cancer bioinformatics analyses projected 30 genes as the underlying targets of miR-221-3p. The genes were significantly distributed in diverse critical pathways, including microRNAs in cancer, viral carcinogenesis, and the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway. Additionally, PPI indicated four hub genes with threshold values of 5: KIT, CDKN1B, RUNX2, and BCL2L11. Moreover, cell studies showed that miR-221-3p can inhibit these four hub genes expression in pancreatic cancer. Conclusions Our research revealed that pancreatic cancer expresses a high-level of miR-221-3p, indicating a potential miR-221-3p role as a prognosis predictor in pancreatic cancer. Moreover, miR-221-3p promotes proliferation capacity, migration ability, invasion ability, and drug resistance but inhibits apoptosis in pancreatic cancer. The function of miR-221-3p in the development of pancreatic cancer may be mediated by the inhibition of hub genes expression. All these results might provide an opportunity to extend the understanding of pancreatic cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zilin Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongping Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiancheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiyan Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Lu Y, Chan YT, Tan HY, Li S, Wang N, Feng Y. Epigenetic regulation in human cancer: the potential role of epi-drug in cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2020; 19:79. [PMID: 32340605 PMCID: PMC7184703 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-020-01197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is dynamic and heritable modifications to the genome that occur independently of DNA sequence. It requires interactions cohesively with various enzymes and other molecular components. Aberrant epigenetic alterations can lead to inappropriate onset of genetic expressions and promote tumorigenesis. As the epigenetic modifiers are susceptible to extrinsic factors and reversible, they are becoming promising targets in multiple cancer therapies. Recently, various epi-drugs have been developed and implicated in clinical use. The use of epi-drugs alone, or in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, has shown compelling outcomes, including augmentation of anti-tumoral effects, overcoming drug resistance, and activation of host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjun Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Yau-Tuen Chan
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Hor-Yue Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Sha Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China.
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pofulam, 000000, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China.
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Zhang J, Ding L, Sun G, Ning H, Huang R. Suppression of LINC00460 mediated the sensitization of HCT116 cells to ionizing radiation by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2020; 9:107-116. [PMID: 32440342 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfaa010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation resistance is the most common challenge for improving radiotherapy. The mechanisms underlying the development of radioresistance remain poorly understood. This study aims to explore the role of LINC00460 in ionizing radiation-induced radioresistance as well as the mechanisms by which LINC00460 is regulated by radiation exposure. The expression of LINC00460 was measured. Cell proliferation and colony formation were measured in HCT116 cells after treatment by radiation. The development of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was determined with or without knockdown LINC00460 expression using western blot analysis. Transcription activity was determined using a series of LINC00460-promoter luciferase reporter gene vectors. LINC00460 expression was significantly higher in HCT116 cells, relative to other cell types, with LINC00460 expression significantly affecting HCT116 cell proliferation. Suppression of LINC00460 inhibits EMT development in HCT116 cells via regulation of ZEB1 expression. Furthermore, LINC00460 expression was induced by irradiation via the activation of c-jun transcription factor-binding element located on the LINC00460 promoter. LINC00460 was shown to play a crucial role in EMT-associated progression of colorectal cancer, indicating that LINC00460 may be an indicator or new potential therapeutic target for colorectal cancer radiosensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Zhang
- Gerontology Department of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Xiangya road 238, Hunan Province 410078, P. R. China
| | - Lixin Ding
- Department of Radiology, National Institute for Radiological Protection, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Taiping road 27, Beijing, 100088, P. R. China
| | - Gaofeng Sun
- Department of Chronic and Non-communicable Diseases Control, City Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jingyi Road 58, Urumqi, 830026, P. R. China
| | - Huacheng Ning
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Heath, Central South University, Xiangya Road 238, Changsha, Hunan Province 410078, P. R. China
| | - Ruixue Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Heath, Central South University, Xiangya Road 238, Changsha, Hunan Province 410078, P. R. China
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Han Y, Zhu L, Wu W, Zhang H, Hu W, Dai L, Yang Y. Small Molecular Immune Modulators as Anticancer Agents. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1248:547-618. [PMID: 32185725 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-3266-5_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
After decades of intense effort, immune checkpoint inhibitors have been conclusively demonstrated to be effective in cancer treatments and thus are revolutionizing the concepts in the treatment of cancers. Immuno-oncology has arrived and will play a key role in cancer treatment in the foreseeable future. However, efforts to find novel methods to improve the immune response to cancer have not ceased. Small-molecule approaches offer inherent advantages over biologic immunotherapies since they can cross cell membranes, penetrate into tumor tissue and tumor microenvironment more easily, and are amenable to be finely controlled than biological agents, which may help reduce immune-related adverse events seen with biologic therapies and provide more flexibility for the combination use with other therapies and superior clinical benefit. On the one hand, small-molecule therapies can modulate the immune response to cancer by restoring the antitumor immunity, promoting more effective cytotoxic lymphocyte responses, and regulating tumor microenvironment, either directly or epigenetically. On the other hand, the combination of different mechanisms of small molecules with antibodies and other biologics demonstrated admirable synergistic effect in clinical settings for cancer treatment and may expand antibodies' usefulness for broader clinical applications. This chapter provides an overview of small-molecule immunotherapeutic approaches either as monotherapy or in combination for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxin Han
- Lapam Capital LLC., 17C1, Tower 2, Xizhimenwai Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100044, China.
| | - Li Zhu
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Wei Wu
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Wei Hu
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Liguang Dai
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Yanqing Yang
- PrimeGene (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
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36
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Crudele F, Bianchi N, Reali E, Galasso M, Agnoletto C, Volinia S. The network of non-coding RNAs and their molecular targets in breast cancer. Mol Cancer 2020; 19:61. [PMID: 32188472 PMCID: PMC7079433 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-020-01181-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Non-coding RNAs are now recognized as fundamental components of the cellular processes. Non-coding RNAs are composed of different classes, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Their detailed roles in breast cancer are still under scrutiny. Main body We systematically reviewed from recent literature the many functional and physical interactions of non-coding RNAs in breast cancer. We used a data driven approach to establish the network of direct, and indirect, interactions. Human curation was essential to de-convolute and critically assess the experimental approaches in the reviewed articles. To enrol the scientific papers in our article cohort, due to the short time span (shorter than 5 years) we considered the journal impact factor rather than the citation number. The outcome of our work is the formal establishment of different sub-networks composed by non-coding RNAs and coding genes with validated relations in human breast cancer. This review describes in a concise and unbiased fashion the core of our current knowledge on the role of lncRNAs, miRNAs and other non-coding RNAs in breast cancer. Conclusions A number of coding/non-coding gene interactions have been investigated in breast cancer during recent years and their full extent is still being established. Here, we have unveiled some of the most important networks embracing those interactions, and described their involvement in cancer development and in its malignant progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Crudele
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Bianchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialist Surgery, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eva Reali
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Galasso
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Agnoletto
- Area of Neuroscience, International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA-ISAS), Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano Volinia
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy. .,LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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Identification of a stemness-related gene panel associated with BET inhibition in triple negative breast cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2020; 43:431-444. [PMID: 32166583 PMCID: PMC7214516 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00497-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are enriched in cells bearing stem-like features, i.e., cancer stem cells (CSCs), which underlie cancer progression. Thus, targeting stemness may be an interesting treatment approach. The epigenetic machinery is crucial for maintaining the stemness phenotype. Bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) epigenetic reader family members are emerging as novel targets for cancer therapy, and have already shown preclinical effects in breast cancer. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of the BET inhibitor JQ1 on stemness in TNBC. Methods Transcriptomic, functional annotation and qRT-PCR studies were performed on JQ1-exposed TNBC cells in culture. The results obtained were confirmed in spheroids and spheroid-derived tumours. In addition, limiting dilution, secondary and tertiary tumour sphere formation, matrigel invasion, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry assays were performed to evaluate the effect of JQ1 on CSC features. For clinical outcome analyses, the online tool Kaplan-Meier Plotter and an integrated response database were used. Results We found that JQ1 modified the expression of stemness-related genes in two TNBC-derived cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and BT549. Among these changes, the CD44 Antigen/CD24 Antigen (CD44/CD24) ratio and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Family Member A1 (ALDH1A1) expression level, i.e., both classical stemness markers, were found to be decreased by JQ1. Using a validated spheroid model to mimic the intrinsic characteristics of CSCs, we found that JQ1 decreased surface CD44 expression, inhibited self-renewal and invasion, and induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1, thereby altering the stemness phenotype. We also found associations between four of the identified stemness genes, Gap Junction Protein Alpha 1 (GJA1), CD24, Epithelial Adhesion Molecule (EPCAM) and SRY-related HMG-box gene 9 (SOX9), and a worse TNBC patient outcome. The expression of another two of the stemness-related genes was found to be decreased by JQ1, i.e., ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily G Member 2 (ABCG2) and RUNX2, and predicted a low response to chemotherapy in TNBC patients, which supports a role for RUNX2 as a potential predictive marker for chemotherapy response in TNBC. Conclusions We identified a stemness-related gene panel associated with JQ1 and describe how this inhibitor modifies the stemness landscape in TNBC. Therefore, we propose a novel role for JQ1 as a stemness-targeting drug. Loss of the stem cell phenotype via JQ1 treatment could lead to less aggressive and more chemo-sensitive tumours, reflecting a better patient prognosis. Thus, the identified gene panel may be of interest for the clinical management of patients with aggressive TNBC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s13402-020-00497-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Zhou S, Zhang S, Wang L, Huang S, Yuan Y, Yang J, Wang H, Li X, Wang P, Zhou L, Yang J, Xu Y, Gao H, Zhang Y, Lv Y, Zou X. BET protein inhibitor JQ1 downregulates chromatin accessibility and suppresses metastasis of gastric cancer via inactivating RUNX2/NID1 signaling. Oncogenesis 2020; 9:33. [PMID: 32157097 PMCID: PMC7064486 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-020-0218-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin accessibility is critical for tumor development, whose mechanisms remain unclear. As a crucial regulator for chromatin remodeling, BRD4 promotes tumor progression by regulating multiple genes. As a small-molecule inhibitor of BRD4, JQ1 has potent chemotherapeutic activity against various human cancers. However, whether JQ1 has potential anti-tumor effects and how JQ1 regulates global transcription in gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unknown. In this research, we found BRD4 was highly expressed in GC tissues and was significantly associated with poor prognosis. JQ1 inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis of GC cells in vitro. Besides, JQ1 suppressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells by inducing MET. Notably, an assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (ATAC-seq) data showed that JQ1 obviously downregulated the chromatin accessibility of GC cells and differentially accessible regions were highly enriched for RUNX2-binding motifs. Combinational analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq data discovered NID1 as the downstream target of JQ1 and JQ1 reduced NID1 expression in GC cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter gene assay, and rescue experiments all confirmed that RUNX2/NID1 axis was responsible for JQ1-inhibiting metastasis of GC cells. What’s more, high expression of NID1 in GC tissues also predicted poor survival outcome of cancer patients and NID1 knockdown prohibited migration and invasion of cancer cells via partially inducing MET. Finally, in vivo models showed that JQ1 prevented GC growth and suppressed cancer metastasis. In conclusion, JQ1 inhibits the malignant progression of GC by downregulating chromatin accessibility and inactivating RUNX2/NID1 signaling. In addition, NID1 is also a novel therapeutic target for progressive GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing, 210008, China.,Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Shuling Huang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yue Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing, 210008, China.,Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing, 210008, China.,Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xihan Li
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Pin Wang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Pathology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yuemei Xu
- Department of Pathology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Huan Gao
- Life Science Department, Vazyme Biotech Co., Nanjing State Economy and Technology Development Zone, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yixuan Zhang
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Ying Lv
- Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Xiaoping Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Jiangsu Clinical Medical Center of Digestive Diseases, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Fragliasso V, Verma A, Manzotti G, Tameni A, Bareja R, Heavican TB, Iqbal J, Wang R, Fiore D, Mularoni V, Chan WC, Lhoumaud P, Skok J, Zanetti E, Merli F, Ciarrocchi A, Elemento O, Inghirami G. The novel lncRNA BlackMamba controls the neoplastic phenotype of ALK - anaplastic large cell lymphoma by regulating the DNA helicase HELLS. Leukemia 2020; 34:2964-2980. [PMID: 32123306 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-020-0754-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms leading to the transformation of anaplastic lymphoma kinase negative (ALK-) anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) have been only in part elucidated. To identify new culprits which promote and drive ALCL, we performed a total transcriptome sequencing and discovered 1208 previously unknown intergenic long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), including 18 lncRNAs preferentially expressed in ALCL. We selected an unknown lncRNA, BlackMamba, with an ALK- ALCL preferential expression, for molecular and functional studies. BlackMamba is a chromatin-associated lncRNA regulated by STAT3 via a canonical transcriptional signaling pathway. Knockdown experiments demonstrated that BlackMamba contributes to the pathogenesis of ALCL regulating cell growth and cell morphology. Mechanistically, BlackMamba interacts with the DNA helicase HELLS controlling its recruitment to the promoter regions of cell-architecture-related genes, fostering their expression. Collectively, these findings provide evidence of a previously unknown tumorigenic role of STAT3 via a lncRNA-DNA helicase axis and reveal an undiscovered role for lncRNA in the maintenance of the neoplastic phenotype of ALK-ALCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Fragliasso
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Akanksha Verma
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine & Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA.,Tri-Institutional Training Program in Computational Biology and Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Annalisa Tameni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41125, Italy
| | - Rohan Bareja
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine & Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Tayla B Heavican
- Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68182, USA
| | - Javeed Iqbal
- Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68182, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Danilo Fiore
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Valentina Mularoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Wing C Chan
- Department of Pathology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Priscillia Lhoumaud
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Jane Skok
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Eleonora Zanetti
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Francesco Merli
- Hematology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42123, Italy.
| | - Oliver Elemento
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine & Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - Giorgio Inghirami
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Reggiani F, Gobbi G, Ciarrocchi A, Ambrosetti DC, Sancisi V. Multiple roles and context-specific mechanisms underlying YAP and TAZ-mediated resistance to anti-cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188341. [PMID: 31931113 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the molecular mechanisms driving resistance to anti-cancer drugs is both a crucial step to define markers of response to therapy and a clinical need in many cancer settings. YAP and TAZ transcriptional cofactors behave as oncogenes in different cancer types. Deregulation of YAP/TAZ expression or alterations in components of the multiple signaling pathways converging on these factors are important mechanisms of resistance to chemotherapy, target therapy and hormone therapy. Moreover, response to immunotherapy may also be affected by YAP/TAZ activities in both tumor and microenvironment cells. For these reasons, various compounds inhibiting YAP/TAZ function by different direct and indirect mechanisms have been proposed as a mean to counter-act drug resistance in cancer. A particularly promising approach may be to simultaneously target both YAP/TAZ expression and their transcriptional activity through BET inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Reggiani
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL- IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giulia Gobbi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL- IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL- IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL- IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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41
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Fu L, Peng S, Wu W, Ouyang Y, Tan D, Fu X. LncRNA HOTAIRM1 promotes osteogenesis by controlling JNK/AP-1 signalling-mediated RUNX2 expression. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:7517-7524. [PMID: 31512358 PMCID: PMC6815819 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have potential ability to differentiate into osteocytes in response to in vitro specific induction. However, the molecular basis underlying this biological process remains largely unclear. In this study, we identify lncRNA HOTAIRM1 as a critical regulator to promote osteogenesis of MSCs. Loss of HOTAIRM1 significantly inhibits the calcium deposition and alkaline phosphatase activity of MSCs. Mechanistically, we find that HOTAIRM1 positively modulates the activity of JNK and c-Jun, both of which are widely accepted as crucial regulators of osteogenic differentiation. More importantly, c-Jun is found to be functionally involved in the regulation of RUNX2 expression, a master transcription factor of osteogenesis. In detail, c-Jun can help recruit the acetyltransferase p300 to RUNX2 promoter, facilitating acetylation of histone 3 at K27 site, therefore epigenetically activating RUNX2 gene transcription. In summary, this study highlights the functional importance of HOTAIRM1 in regulation of osteogenesis, and we characterize HOTAIRM1 as a promising molecular target for bone tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral HepatitisXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Shifang Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral HepatitisXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Wanfeng Wu
- School of the Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineHunan University of Chinese MedicineChangshaChina
| | - Yi Ouyang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral HepatitisXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Deming Tan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral HepatitisXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Xiaoyu Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral HepatitisXiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaChina
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Wei M, Liu L, Wang Z. Long non-coding RNA heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2-antisense RNA 1 overexpression inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells by reducing RUNX2 expression in triple-negative breast cancer. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:6775-6780. [PMID: 31788122 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.11001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of long non-coding RNA heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2-antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA HAND2-AS1) in tumor suppression has been reported in a number of cancer types, while its functionality in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 in TNBC using different methodologies. HAND2-AS1 and RUNX2 expression was analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis. Diagnostic analysis was performed using receiver operating characteristic curve. Overexpression experiments were performed to analyze the interaction between HAND2-AS1 and RUNX2 while the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was performed to analyze cell proliferation. In patients with early-stage TNBC, the expression level of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 was downregulated, whilst runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) mRNA was upregulated in tumor tissues, compared with paired healthy tissues. Expression levels of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 and RUNX2 mRNA were inversely correlated in tumor tissues, but not in paired healthy tissues. Decreased plasma expression levels of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 were observed in TNBC patients compared with those in healthy controls, and the downregulation of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 distinguished patients with TNBC from healthy controls. lncRNA HAND2-AS1 overexpression inhibited RUNX2 expression, whilst RUNX2 overexpression did not significantly affect lncRNA HAND2-AS1 expression in the MDA-MB-231 and BT-20 cell lines. lncRNA HAND2-AS1 overexpression resulted in the inhibition of cell proliferation, while RUNX2 overexpression promoted the proliferation of TNBC cells. RUNX2 overexpression partially reversed the effects of lncRNA HAND2-AS1 overexpression on cancer cells. Therefore lncRNA HAND2-AS1 may inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells by inhibiting RUNX2 expression in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wei
- Department of Breast, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Surgery, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226006, P.R. China
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Breast, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
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Rossi T, Pistoni M, Sancisi V, Gobbi G, Torricelli F, Donati B, Ribisi S, Gugnoni M, Ciarrocchi A. RAIN Is a Novel Enhancer-Associated lncRNA That Controls RUNX2 Expression and Promotes Breast and Thyroid Cancer. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 18:140-152. [PMID: 31624086 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-19-0564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer (ENH)-associated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are a peculiar class of RNAs produced by transcriptionally active ENHs, owning potential gene-regulatory function. Here, we characterized RAIN, a novel ENH-associated lncRNA. Analysis of RAIN expression in a retrospective cohort of human thyroid cancers showed that the expression of this lncRNA is restricted to cancer cells and strongly correlates with the expression of the cancer-promoting transcription factor RUNX2. We showed that RAIN, serving as a cis-regulatory element, promotes RUNX2 expression by two mechanisms. Binding WDR5 and facilitating its localization on the RUNX2 promoter, RAIN modifies the transcriptional status of the RUNX2 locus facilitating transcription initiation. In parallel, RAIN acts as decoy for negative elongation factor complex, restraining its inhibitory function on transcription elongation. In both thyroid and breast cancer cells, RAIN promotes oncogenic features. Using RNA-sequencing profiling, we showed that RAIN orchestrates the expression of a network of cancer-promoting transcription regulators, suggesting that RAIN affects cancer cell phenotype by coordinating the expression of a complex transcriptional network. IMPLICATIONS: Our data contribute to understand lncRNA function in gene regulation and to consolidate their role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Rossi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Mariaelena Pistoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giulia Gobbi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ribisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL)-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Sollini M, di Tommaso L, Kirienko M, Piombo C, Erreni M, Lania AG, Erba PA, Antunovic L, Chiti A. PSMA expression level predicts differentiated thyroid cancer aggressiveness and patient outcome. EJNMMI Res 2019; 9:93. [PMID: 31617002 PMCID: PMC6794333 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-019-0559-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is overexpressed on the endothelial cells of tumor neo-vessels of several solid malignancies, including differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). We aimed to test the potential role of PSMA as a biomarker for DTC aggressiveness and outcome prediction. We retrospectively screened all patients who underwent thyroidectomy between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2017 in our institution. Applying the inclusion (histological diagnosis of thyroid cancer and tissue availability) and exclusion criteria (no clinical or follow-up data or diagnosis of medullary thyroid cancer), a cohort of 59 patients was selected. The monoclonal mouse anti-human PSMA antibody was used to stain tissue sections. A 3-point scale was used to score PSMA positivity: 0–5% expression was considered as negative (score 0), 6–50% as moderately positive (score 1), and 51–100% as highly positive (score 2). A cumulative score (0–10%, 11–79%, and 80–100%) was also explored. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to predict the presence of distant metastases, chosen as endpoint of aggressiveness. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. Cox models were built to predict patient outcome in terms of recurrence, iodine refractoriness, and status at last follow-up, which were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier failure function. Results At immunostaining, 12, 25, and 22 patients had scores of 0, 1, and 2, respectively. According to the cumulative score, PSMA expression was ≤ 10% in 17 cases, 11–79% in 31 cases, and ≥ 80% in 11 cases. At multivariate analysis, age, sex, histotype, vascular invasion, T and N parameters, and PSMA positivity were significant predictors of distant metastases. The AUC was 0.92. Recurrence or progression occurred in 19/59 patients. Twelve patients developed radioiodine (RAI) refractoriness, after a median time of 17 months (range 2–32). One patient died of DTC; 46 of the 58 patients alive at last follow-up were disease free. Median DFS was 23 months (range 3–82). The final multivariate model to predict RAI refractoriness included as covariates the stage, high PSMA expression (≥ 80%), and the interaction between moderate PSMA expression (11–79%) and stage. Conclusions PSMA, a marker of neovasculature formation expressed by DTC, contributes in the prediction of tumor aggressiveness and patient outcome. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13550-019-0559-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Sollini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy. .,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Luca di Tommaso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Margarita Kirienko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Chiara Piombo
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Marco Erreni
- Department of Advanced Optical Microscopy, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Andrea Gerardo Lania
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Department of Endocrinology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Paola Anna Erba
- Regional Center of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lidija Antunovic
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Arturo Chiti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
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Jin W, Han H, Liu D. Downregulation miR-539 is associated with poor prognosis of gastric cancer patients and aggressive progression of gastric cancer cells. Cancer Biomark 2019; 26:183-191. [DOI: 10.3233/cbm-190384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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46
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Ouyang P, Wu K, Su L, An W, Bie Y, Zhang H, Kang H, Jiang E, Zhu W, Yao Y, Hu X, Chen Z, Wang S. Inhibition of human cervical cancer cell invasion by IL-37 involving runt related transcription factor 2 suppression. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2019; 7:568. [PMID: 31807549 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.09.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background IL-37 is a newly anti-inflammatory cytokine whose function is largely unknown in cancer. Our preliminary experiment found IL-37 could inhibit the invasion of human cervical cancer (CC) cells and influence the expression of RUNX family whose function was also unclear in CC. The present study aims to further investigate the effects of IL-37 on cell invasion and runt related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) expression in CC cell lines. Methods Firstly, plasmid overexpressing IL-37 or RUNX2 was transfected into Siha and C33A cells by Hilymax. Then, the effects of IL-37 on the mRNA expression of RUNX1, RUNX2 and RUNX3 gene were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Protein expression was measured by Western blot and the grayscale scanning analysis. Finally, the effects of IL-37 or RUNX2 on cell invasion were tested by transwell assay. Results IL-37 inhibited the mRNA expression of RUNX1 and RUNX2, and increased that of RUNX3 in CC cells. Among the three RUNX genes, RUNX2 showed the most significant change in mRNA expression (decreased by78.5% in Siha cells and by 61.5% in C33A cells) and thus was chosen for the following study. Overexpressed IL-37 inhibited cell invasion by 36.23% in Siha cells (P<0.05) and 26.21% in C33A cells (P<0.01). Overexpression of RUNX2 promoted cell invasion. Up-regulation of IL-37 suppressed markedly the mRNA and protein expression of RUNX2. Furthermore, overexpressed RUNX2 partially restored the inhibited cell invasion by IL-37 to 86.62% in Siha cells (P<0.01) and 87.08% in C33A cells (P<0.01). Conclusions IL-37 can significantly inhibit the cell invasion of Siha and C33A cells, which involves the suppression of RUNX2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Ouyang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Kun Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Liudan Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Weifang An
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yanhong Bie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Haixian Kang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Enping Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yunhong Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Xinrong Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Zhangquan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Sen Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
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47
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Gobbi G, Donati B, Do Valle IF, Reggiani F, Torricelli F, Remondini D, Castellani G, Ambrosetti DC, Ciarrocchi A, Sancisi V. The Hippo pathway modulates resistance to BET proteins inhibitors in lung cancer cells. Oncogene 2019; 38:6801-6817. [PMID: 31406246 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0924-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitors of BET proteins (BETi) are anti-cancer drugs that have shown efficacy in pre-clinical settings and are currently in clinical trials for different types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently, no predictive biomarker is available to identify patients that may benefit from this treatment. To uncover the mechanisms of resistance to BETi, we performed a genome-scale CRISPR/Cas9 screening in lung cancer cells. We identified three Hippo pathway genes, LATS2, TAOK1, and NF2, as key determinants for sensitivity to BETi. The knockout of these genes induces resistance to BETi, by promoting TAZ nuclear localization and transcriptional activity. Conversely, TAZ expression promotes resistance to these drugs. We also showed that TAZ, YAP, and their partner TEAD are direct targets of BRD4 and that treatment with BETi downregulates their expression. Noticeably, molecular alterations in one or more of these genes are present in a large fraction of NSCLC patients and TAZ amplification or overexpression correlates with a worse outcome in lung adenocarcinoma. Our data define the central role of Hippo pathway in mediating resistance to BETi and provide a rationale for using BETi to counter-act YAP/TAZ-mediated pro-oncogenic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gobbi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Italo Faria Do Valle
- Department of Physics, Center for Complex Network Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francesca Reggiani
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Daniel Remondini
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gastone Castellani
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Manzotti G, Torricelli F, Donati B, Sancisi V, Gugnoni M, Ciarrocchi A. HDACs control RUNX2 expression in cancer cells through redundant and cell context-dependent mechanisms. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2019; 38:346. [PMID: 31395086 PMCID: PMC6686443 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1350-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background RUNX2 is a Runt-related transcription factor required during embryogenesis for skeletal development and morphogenesis of other organs including thyroid and breast gland. Consistent evidence indicates that RUNX2 expression is aberrantly reactivated in cancer and supports tumor progression. The mechanisms leading to RUNX2 expression in cancer has only recently began to emerge. Previously, we showed that suppressing the activity of the epigenetic regulators HDACs significantly represses RUNX2 expression highlighting a role for these enzymes in RUNX2 reactivation in cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms by which HDACs control RUNX2 are still largely unexplored. Here, to fill this gap, we investigated the role of different HDACs in RUNX2 expression regulation in breast and thyroid cancer, tumors that majorly rely on RUNX2 for their development and progression. Methods Proliferation assays and evaluation of RUNX2 mRNA levels by qRT-PCR were used to evaluate the effect of several HDACi and specific siRNAs on a panel of cancer cell lines. Moreover, ChIP and co-IP assays were performed to elucidate the molecular mechanism underneath the RUNX2 transcriptional regulation. Finally, RNA-sequencing unveiled a new subset of genes whose transcription is regulated by the complex RUNX2-HDAC6. Results In this study, we showed that Class I HDACs and in particular HDAC1 are required for RUNX2 efficient transcription in cancer. Furthermore, we found an additional and cell-specific function of HDAC6 in driving RUNX2 expression in thyroid cancer cells. In this model, HDAC6 likely stabilizes the assembly of the transcriptional complex, which includes HDAC1, on the RUNX2 P2 promoter potentiating its transcription. Since a functional interplay between RUNX2 and HDAC6 has been suggested, we used RNA-Seq profiling to consolidate this evidence in thyroid cancer and to extend the knowledge on this cooperation in a setting in which HDAC6 also controls RUNX2 expression. Conclusions Overall, our data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms controlling RUNX2 in cancer and consolidate the rationale for the use of HDACi as potential pharmacological strategy to counteract the pro-oncogenic program controlled by RUNX2 in cancer cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1350-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Manzotti
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Torricelli
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Sancisi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Mila Gugnoni
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Laboratory of Translational Research, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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49
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Telomerase and Telomeres Biology in Thyroid Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20122887. [PMID: 31200515 PMCID: PMC6627113 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20122887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere and telomerase regulation contributes to the onset and evolution of several tumors, including highly aggressive thyroid cancers (TCs). TCs are the most common endocrine malignancies and are generally characterized by a high rate of curability. However, a small but significant percentage develops distant metastasis or progresses into undifferentiated forms associated with bad prognosis and for which poor therapeutic options are available. Mutations in telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter are among the most credited prognostic marker of aggressiveness in TCs. Indeed, their frequency progressively increases passing from indolent lesions to aggressive and anaplastic forms. TERT promoter mutations create binding sites for transcription factors, increasing TERT expression and telomerase activity. Furthermore, aggressiveness of TCs is associated with TERT locus amplification. These data encourage investigating telomerase regulating pathways as relevant drivers of TC development and progression to foster the identification of new therapeutics targets. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about telomere regulation and TCs, exploring both canonical and less conventional pathways. We discuss the possible role of telomere homeostasis in mediating response to cancer therapies and the possibility of using epigenetic drugs to re-evaluate the use of telomerase inhibitors. Combined treatments could be of support to currently used therapies still presenting weaknesses.
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50
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Herreño AM, Ramírez AC, Chaparro VP, Fernandez MJ, Cañas A, Morantes CF, Moreno OM, Brugés RE, Mejía JA, Bustos FJ, Montecino M, Rojas AP. Role of RUNX2 transcription factor in epithelial mesenchymal transition in non-small cell lung cancer: Epigenetic control of the RUNX2 P1 promoter. Tumour Biol 2019; 41:1010428319851014. [DOI: 10.1177/1010428319851014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer has a high mortality rate in men and women worldwide. Approximately 15% of diagnosed patients with this type of cancer do not exceed the 5-year survival rate. Unfortunately, diagnosis is established in advanced stages, where other tissues or organs can be affected. In recent years, lineage-specific transcription factors have been associated with a variety of cancers. One such transcription factor possibly regulating cancer is RUNX2, the master gene of early and late osteogenesis. In thyroid and prostate cancer, it has been reported that RUNX2 regulates expression of genes important in tumor cell migration and invasion. In this study, we report on RUNX2/ p57 overexpression in 16 patients with primary non-small cell lung cancer and/or metastatic lung cancer associated with H3K27Ac at P1 gene promoter region. In some patients, H3K4Me3 enrichment was also detected, in addition to WDR5, MLL2, MLL4, and UTX enzyme recruitment, members of the COMPASS-LIKE complex. Moreover, transforming growth factor-β induced RUNX2/ p57 overexpression and specific RUNX2 knockdown supported a role for RUNX2 in epithelial mesenchymal transition, which was demonstrated through loss of function assays in adenocarcinoma A549 lung cancer cell line. Furthermore, RUNX2 increased expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition genes VIMENTIN, TWIST1, and SNAIL1, which reflected increased migratory capacity in lung adenocarcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica María Herreño
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Andrea Carolina Ramírez
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Viviana Paola Chaparro
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María José Fernandez
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alejandra Cañas
- Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Olga María Moreno
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ricardo Elias Brugés
- Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan Andrés Mejía
- Servicio de Radiología e Imágenes Diagnósticas, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernando José Bustos
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina y Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Martín Montecino
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina y Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Adriana P Rojas
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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