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Zhang Y, Bejaoui M, Linh TN, Arimura T, Isoda H. A novel amphiphilic squalene-based compound with open-chain polyethers reduces malignant melanoma metastasis in-vitro and in-vivo. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:437. [PMID: 39261954 PMCID: PMC11389383 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01813-5] [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: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Squalene (SQ) is a well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that provides promising anti-aging and UV-protective roles on human skin. However, its strong hydrophobic nature, accompanied by issues such as poor solubility and limited tissue permeation, has created challenges for scientists to investigate its untapped potential in more complex conditions, including cancer progression. The present study assessed the potent anti-metastatic properties of a newly synthesized amphiphilic ethylene glycol SQ derivative (SQ-diEG) in melanoma, the most fatal skin cancer. In vitro and in vivo experiments have discovered that SQ-diEG may exert its potential on melanoma malignancy through the mitochondria-mediated caspase activation apoptotic signaling pathway. The potent anti-metastatic effect of SQ-diEG was observed in vitro using highly proliferative and aggressive melanoma cells. Administration of SQ-diEG (25 mg/kg) significantly decreased the tumor burden on the lung and inhibited the metastasis-associated proteins and gene markers in B16F10 lung colonization mice model. Furthermore, global gene profiling also revealed a promising role of SQ-diEG in tumor microenvironment. We anticipated that the amphiphilic nature of the SQ compound bearing ethylene glycol oligomers could potentially augment its ability to reach the pathology site, thus enhancing its therapeutic potential in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaman Zhang
- Tsukuba Life Science Innovation Program (T-LSI), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Meriem Bejaoui
- Open Innovation Laboratory for Food and Medicinal Resource Engineering (FoodMed-OIL), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
- Alliance for Research On the Mediterranean and North Africa (ARENA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tran Ngoc Linh
- Open Innovation Laboratory for Food and Medicinal Resource Engineering (FoodMed-OIL), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Takashi Arimura
- Open Innovation Laboratory for Food and Medicinal Resource Engineering (FoodMed-OIL), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiroko Isoda
- Tsukuba Life Science Innovation Program (T-LSI), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.
- Open Innovation Laboratory for Food and Medicinal Resource Engineering (FoodMed-OIL), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan.
- Alliance for Research On the Mediterranean and North Africa (ARENA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.
- Institution of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.
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2
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Serritelli EN, Sartini D, Campagna R, Pozzi V, Martin NI, van Haren MJ, Salvolini E, Cecati M, Rubini C, Emanuelli M. Targeting nicotinamide N-methyltransferase decreased aggressiveness of osteosarcoma cells. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14185. [PMID: 38426563 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary bone malignancy that mostly affects young people, characterized by high metastatic potential, and a marked chemoresistance that is responsible for disease relapse in most patients. Therefore, it is necessary to identify novel molecules to setup targeted strategies to improve the clinical outcome. The enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyses the N-methylation of nicotinamide and other analogs, playing a crucial role in the biotransformation of drugs and xenobiotics. NNMT overexpression was reported in a wide variety of cancers, and several studies demonstrated that is able to promote cell proliferation, migration and resistance to chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to explore the potential involvement of NNMT in OS. METHODS Immunohistochemical analyses have been performed to evaluate NNMT expression in selected OS and healthy bone tissue samples. Subsequently, OS cell lines have been transfected with vectors targeting NNMT mRNA (shRNAs) and the impact of this downregulation on migration, cell proliferation, and response to chemotherapeutic treatment was also analysed by wound healing, MTT, SRB and Trypan blue assays, respectively. RESULTS Results showed that OS samples display a significantly higher NNMT expression compared with healthy tissue. Preliminary results suggest that NNMT silencing in OS cell lines is associated to a decrease of cell proliferation and migration, as well as to enhanced sensitivity to chemotherapy. Data obtained showed that NNMT may represent an interesting marker for OS detection and a promising target for effective anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- E N Serritelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - D Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - R Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - V Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - N I Martin
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M J van Haren
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - M Cecati
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - C Rubini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - M Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
- New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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3
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Pozzi V, Molinelli E, Campagna R, Serritelli EN, Cecati M, De Simoni E, Sartini D, Goteri G, Martin NI, van Haren MJ, Salvolini E, Simonetti O, Offidani A, Emanuelli M. Knockdown of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase suppresses proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance of Merkel cell carcinoma cells in vitro. Hum Cell 2024; 37:729-738. [PMID: 38504052 PMCID: PMC11016511 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-024-01047-0] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer, with a propensity for early metastasis. Therefore, early diagnosis and the identification of novel targets become fundamental. The enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyzes the reaction of N-methylation of nicotinamide and other analogous compounds. Although NNMT overexpression was reported in many malignancies, the significance of its dysregulation in cancer cell phenotype was partly clarified. Several works demonstrated that NNMT promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance. In this study, we investigated the possible involvement of this enzyme in MCC. Preliminary immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate NNMT expression in MCC tissue specimens. To explore the enzyme function in tumor cell metabolism, MCC cell lines have been transfected with plasmids encoding for short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeting NNMT mRNA. Preliminary immunohistochemical analyses showed elevated NNMT expression in MCC tissue specimens. The effect of enzyme downregulation on cell proliferation, migration, and chemosensitivity was then evaluated through MTT, trypan blue, and wound healing assays. Data obtained clearly demonstrated that NNMT knockdown is associated with a decrease of cell proliferation, viability, and migration, as well as with enhanced sensitivity to treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs. Taken together, these results suggest that NNMT could represent an interesting MCC biomarker and a promising target for targeted anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Molinelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Emma N Serritelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Simoni
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Gaia Goteri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nathaniel I Martin
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs J van Haren
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Oriana Simonetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
- New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
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Jedrzejewska A, Jablonska P, Gawlik-Jakubczak T, Czajkowski M, Maszka P, Mierzejewska P, Smolenski RT, Slominska EM. Elevated Plasma Concentration of 4-Pyridone-3-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribonucleoside (4PYR) Highlights Malignancy of Renal Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2359. [PMID: 38397036 PMCID: PMC10888534 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042359] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nicotinamide (NA) derivatives play crucial roles in various biological processes, such as inflammation, regulation of the cell cycle, and DNA repair. Recently, we proposed that 4-pyridone-3-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribonucleoside (4PYR), an unusual derivative of NA, could be classified as an oncometabolite in bladder, breast, and lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the relations between NA metabolism and the progression, recurrence, metastasis, and survival of patients diagnosed with different histological subtypes of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We identified alterations in plasma NA metabolism, particularly in the clear cell RCC (ccRCC) subtype, compared to papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC, and oncocytoma. Patients with ccRCC also exhibited larger tumor sizes and elevated levels of diagnostic serum biomarkers, such as hsCRP concentration and ALP activity, which were positively correlated with the plasma 4PYR. Notably, 4PYR levels were elevated in advanced stages of ccRCC cancer and were associated with a highly aggressive phenotype of ccRCC. Additionally, elevated concentrations of 4PYR were related to a higher likelihood of mortality, recurrence, and particularly metastasis in ccRCC. These findings are consistent with other studies, suggesting that NA metabolism is accelerated in RCC, leading to abnormal concentrations of 4PYR. This supports the concept of 4PYR as an oncometabolite and a potential prognostic factor in the ccRCC subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Jedrzejewska
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Patrycja Jablonska
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Teresa Gawlik-Jakubczak
- Department of Urology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (T.G.-J.); (M.C.)
| | - Mateusz Czajkowski
- Department of Urology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (T.G.-J.); (M.C.)
| | - Patrycja Maszka
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Paulina Mierzejewska
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Ryszard T. Smolenski
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Ewa M. Slominska
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.J.); (P.J.); (P.M.); (P.M.)
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Tosti G, Pepe F, Gnagnarella P, Silvestri F, Gaeta A, Queirolo P, Gandini S. The Role of Nicotinamide as Chemo-Preventive Agent in NMSCs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2023; 16:100. [PMID: 38201930 PMCID: PMC10780437 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010100] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nicotinamide is the active form of vitamin B3 (niacin) obtained through endogenous synthesis, mainly through tryptophan metabolism and dietary supplements, fish, meats, grains, and dairy products. It participates in cellular energy metabolism and modulates multiple cellular survival and death pathways. Nicotinamide has been widely studied as a safe chemopreventive agent that reduces actinic keratosis (AKs) and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). METHODS We used the Medline, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane databases to search the concepts "nicotinamide", "chemoprevention", and "skin cancer" up to August 2023. Three independent authors screened titles and abstracts for intervention and study design before searching full texts for eligibility criteria. The primary outcome was the impact of oral nicotinamide on the incidence of NMSC in high-risk patients. We also conducted a systematic search to identify relevant epidemiological studies published evaluating dietary niacin intake and the risk of NMSC. RESULTS Two hundred and twenty-five studies were reviewed, and four met the inclusion criteria. There was no association between NAM consumption and risk for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (rate ratio (RR) 0.81, 95% CI 0.48-1.37; I2 = 0%), basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.50-1.55; I2 = 63%), and NMSC (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.61-1.12; I2 = 63%). Adverse events were rare and acceptable, allowing optimal compliance of patients to the treatment. We found only one article evaluating the association between niacin dietary intake and NMSC risk, supporting a potential beneficial role of niacin intake concerning SCC but not BCC or melanoma. CONCLUSIONS The present meta-analysis shows, by pooling immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients, that there is insufficient evidence that oral nicotinamide therapy significantly reduces the number of keratinocyte cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Tosti
- Dermato-Oncology Unit, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (G.T.); (F.P.); (F.S.)
| | - Francesca Pepe
- Dermato-Oncology Unit, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (G.T.); (F.P.); (F.S.)
| | - Patrizia Gnagnarella
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Flavia Silvestri
- Dermato-Oncology Unit, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (G.T.); (F.P.); (F.S.)
| | - Aurora Gaeta
- Molecular and Pharmaco-Epidemiology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy; (A.G.); (S.G.)
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milan-Bicocca 8, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Queirolo
- Division of Medical Oncology for Melanoma, Sarcoma, and Rare Tumors, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy;
| | - Sara Gandini
- Molecular and Pharmaco-Epidemiology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy; (A.G.); (S.G.)
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6
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de Oliveira Filho RS, de Oliveira DA, Nisimoto MM, Marti LC. A Review of Advanced Cutaneous Melanoma Therapies and Their Mechanisms, from Immunotherapies to Lysine Histone Methyl Transferase Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5751. [PMID: 38136297 PMCID: PMC10741407 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced cutaneous melanoma is considered to be the most aggressive type of skin cancer and has variable rates of treatment response. Currently, there are some classes of immunotherapy and target therapies for its treatment. Immunotherapy can inhibit tumor growth and its recurrence by triggering the host's immune system, whereas targeted therapy inhibits specific molecules or signaling pathways. However, melanoma responses to these treatments are highly heterogeneous, and patients can develop resistance. Epigenomics (DNA/histone modifications) contribute to cancer initiation and progression. Epigenetic alterations are divided into four levels of gene expression regulation: DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA regulation. Deregulation of lysine methyltransferase enzymes is associated with tumor initiation, invasion, development of metastases, changes in the immune microenvironment, and drug resistance. The study of lysine histone methyltransferase (KMT) and nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) inhibitors is important for understanding cancer epigenetic mechanisms and biological processes. In addition to immunotherapy and target therapy, the research and development of KMT and NNMT inhibitors is ongoing. Many studies are exploring the therapeutic implications and possible side effects of these compounds, in addition to their adjuvant potential to the approved current therapies. Importantly, as with any drug development, safety, efficacy, and specificity are crucial considerations when developing methyltransferase inhibitors for clinical applications. Thus, this review article presents the recently available therapies and those in development for advanced cutaneous melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Santos de Oliveira Filho
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina–Universidade Federal de São Paulo–EPM-UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Arcuschin de Oliveira
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo–UNIFESP-Skin Cancer and Melanoma Fellow, São Paulo 04023-900, SP, Brazil;
| | | | - Luciana Cavalheiro Marti
- Experimental Research Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, SP, Brazil
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7
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Molinelli E, Ceccarelli G, Fantone S, Di Mercurio E, Gambini D, Maurizi A, Perugini J, Tossetta G, Brisigotti V, De Simoni E, Sapigni C, Rizzetto G, Campanati A, Simonetti O, Marzioni D, Offidani A. Melanoma and subcutaneous adipose tissue: Role of peritumoral adipokines in disease characterization and prognosis. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2023; 36:423-430. [PMID: 37334675 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
In the last decades, the concept of adipose organ has emerged, giving adipose tissue an active endocrine and immunologic function through the secretion of multiple cytokines and chemokines that seem to be implicated in the development and progression of several cancer, including cutaneous melanoma. In this pilot experimental study, we analyzed the expression in the peritumor subcutaneous adipose tissue of the most significant adipokines involved in the processes of carcinogenesis and metastasis in a population of melanoma patients and in two control groups composed of melanocytic nevi and epidermoid cysts, respectively. We correlated the results obtained with the main disease prognostic factors observing a statistically significant increase in the expression of PAI1, LEP, CXCL1, NAMPT, and TNF-α at the level of the peritumor tissue of the melanoma samples compared to the control groups and a correlation of the same with the histopathological prognostic factor of melanoma. Our preliminary study shows that the overexpression of PAI1, LEP, CXCL1, NAMPT, and TNF-α may contribute to the growth and to the local aggressiveness of cutaneous melanoma. It opens the hypothesis of a direct oncogenic role of subcutaneous adipose tissue and adipokines in the tumorigenesis of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Molinelli
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Sonia Fantone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Di Mercurio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daisy Gambini
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Maurizi
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Jessica Perugini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tossetta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valerio Brisigotti
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Simoni
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Claudia Sapigni
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giulio Rizzetto
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Anna Campanati
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Oriana Simonetti
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniela Marzioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Dermatological Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Marani A, Gioacchini H, Paolinelli M, Offidani A, Campanati A. Potential drug-drug interactions with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitors used to treat melanoma. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2023; 19:555-567. [PMID: 37659065 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2023.2255519] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The management of patients with BRAF-mutated advanced melanoma who are undergoing targeted therapy with MEK inhibitors can be complicated by the co-administration of multiple medications, which can give rise to drug-drug interactions of clinical significance. COVERED AREAS Our review presents a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions of the three approved for advanced melanoma MEK inhibitor drugs - binimetinib, cobimetinib, and trametinib. MEDLINE (PubMed) was utilized for the literature search, comprising clinical studies, observational studies, and preclinical research. The review discusses the impact of these interactions on efficacy and safety of the treatments and differentiates between interactions supported by pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic mechanisms, those encountered in clinical practice, and those observed in preclinical studies. EXPERT OPINION Physicians should be aware about potential benefits, but also increased toxicity caused by drug interactions between MEK inhibitors and other drugs in the management of patients with metastatic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Marani
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Marche, Italy
| | - H Gioacchini
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Marche, Italy
| | - M Paolinelli
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Marche, Italy
| | - A Offidani
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Marche, Italy
| | - A Campanati
- Dermatologic Clinic, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Marche, Italy
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9
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(Jitian) Mihulecea CR, Rotaru M. Review: The Key Factors to Melanomagenesis. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:life13010181. [PMID: 36676131 PMCID: PMC9866207 DOI: 10.3390/life13010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer that develops from the malignant transformation of the melanocytes located in the basal layer of the epidermis (cutaneous melanoma). Melanocytes may also be found in the meninges, eyes, ears, gastrointestinal tract, genito-urinary system, or other mucosal surfaces (mucosal melanoma). Melanoma is caused by an uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes, that at first may form a benign lesion (nevogenesis), but in time, it may transition to melanoma, determining what it is named, melanomagenesis. Some tumors may appear spontaneously (de novo melanoma) or on preexisting lesions (nevus-associated melanoma). The exact cause of melanoma may not be fully understood yet, but there are some factors that initiate and promote this malignant process. This study aims to provide a summary of the latest articles regarding the key factors that may lead to melanomagenesis. The secondary objectives are to reveal the relationship between nevi and melanoma, to understand the cause of "de novo" and "nevus-associated melanoma" and highlight the differences between these subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina-Raluca (Jitian) Mihulecea
- Doctoral Studies, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timișoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Dermatology Clinic, Emergency Clinical County Hospital of Sibiu, 550245 Sibiu, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Rotaru
- Doctoral Studies, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timișoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Dermatology Clinic, Emergency Clinical County Hospital of Sibiu, 550245 Sibiu, Romania
- Dermatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 550169 Sibiu, Romania
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10
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Immunohistochemical expression of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in lymph node metastases from cutaneous malignant melanoma. Hum Cell 2023; 36:480-482. [PMID: 36151433 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-022-00793-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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11
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Radi G, Rossi R, Diotallevi F, Giannoni M, Molinelli E, Paolinelli M, Ferrara G, Offidani A. The role of the optical super high magnification dermoscopy (O.S.H.M.D) in the management of melanocytic lesions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:e122-e124. [PMID: 35977047 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Radi
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Renato Rossi
- Department of Dermatology, Skin Center Senigallia, Ancona, Italy
| | - Federico Diotallevi
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Melania Giannoni
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Molinelli
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Matteo Paolinelli
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gerardo Ferrara
- Anatomic Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione'G. Pascale', Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Dermatological Clinic Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
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12
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Melanogenesis and the Targeted Therapy of Melanoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121874. [PMID: 36551302 PMCID: PMC9775438 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigment production is a unique character of melanocytes. Numerous factors are linked with melanin production, including genetics, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and inflammation. Understanding the mechanism of melanogenesis is crucial to identify new preventive and therapeutic strategies in the treatment of melanoma. Here, we reviewed the current available literatures on the mechanisms of melanogenesis, including the signaling pathways of UVR-induced pigment production, MC1R's central determinant roles and MITF as a master transcriptional regulator in melanogenesis. Moreover, we further highlighted the role of targeting BRAF, NRAS and MC1R in melanoma prevention and treatment. The combination therapeutics of immunotherapy and targeted kinase inhibitors are becoming the newest therapeutic option in advanced melanoma.
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13
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Georgescu SR, Mitran CI, Mitran MI, Matei C, Constantin C, Neagu M, Tampa M. Apprising Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Cutaneous Melanoma—Persistent Updating. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091506. [PMID: 36143291 PMCID: PMC9505119 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of melanoma, a very aggressive skin cancer, has increased over the past few decades. Although there are well-established clinical, dermoscopic and histopathological criteria, the diagnosis is often performed late, which has important implications on the patient’s clinical outcome. Unfortunately, melanoma is one of the most challenging tumors to diagnose because it is a heterogeneous neoplasm at the clinical, histopathological, and molecular level. The use of reliable biomarkers for the diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression is becoming a standard of care in modern medicine. In this review, we discuss the latest studies, which highlight findings from the genomics, epitranscriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics areas, pointing out different genes, molecules and cells as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cutaneous melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, “Victor Babes” Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Iulia Mitran
- Department of Microbiology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.I.M.); (M.I.M.)
| | - Madalina Irina Mitran
- “Cantacuzino” National Medico-Military Institute for Research and Development, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.I.M.); (M.I.M.)
| | - Clara Matei
- Department of Dermatology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Immunology Department, “Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, “Victor Babes” Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
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14
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Pozzi V, Campagna R, Sartini D, Emanuelli M. Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase as Promising Tool for Management of Gastrointestinal Neoplasms. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091173. [PMID: 36139012 PMCID: PMC9496617 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) neoplasms include esophageal, gastric, colorectal, hepatic, and pancreatic cancers. They are characterized by asymptomatic behavior, being responsible for diagnostic delay. Substantial refractoriness to chemo- and radiotherapy, exhibited by late-stage tumors, contribute to determine poor patient outcome. Therefore, it is of outmost importance to identify new molecular targets for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we focused on the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), which catalyzes the N-methylation reaction of nicotinamide and whose overexpression has been reported in numerous neoplasms, including GI cancers. The aim of this review was to report data illustrating NNMT involvement in these tumors, highlighting its contribution to tumor cell phenotype. Cited works clearly demonstrate the interesting potential use of enzyme level determination for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes. NNMT was also found to positively affect cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasiveness, contributing to sustain in vitro and in vivo tumor growth and metastatic spread. Moreover, enzyme upregulation featuring tumor cells was significantly associated with enhancement of resistance to treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs. Taken together, these results strongly suggest the possibility to target NNMT for setup of molecular-based strategies to effectively treat GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020 Ancona, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-071-2204673
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020 Ancona, Italy
- New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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15
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Hubková B, Valko-Rokytovská M, Čižmárová B, Zábavníková M, Mareková M, Birková A. Tryptophan: Its Metabolism along the Kynurenine, Serotonin, and Indole Pathway in Malignant Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169160. [PMID: 36012419 PMCID: PMC9408957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Tryptophan metabolism is known to be one of the important mechanisms used by cancer to evade immune surveillance. Altered tryptophan metabolism was studied in patients with pigmented malignant melanoma confirmed histologically by the anatomic stage grouping for cutaneous melanoma using clinical staging on the basis of the Breslow thickness of the melanoma, the degree of spread to regional lymph nodes, and by the presence of distant metastasis. (2) Methods: Urinary tryptophan metabolites were detected by RP-HPLC method. (3) Results: In the present work, we provided evidence of altered metabolism of all tryptophan pathways in melanoma patients. (4) Conclusions: Knowledge of the shifted serotonin pathway toward DHICA formation and kynurenine pathway shifted toward NAD+ production could serve in the early detection of the disease and the initiation of early treatment of malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beáta Hubková
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Tr. SNP 1, 040 11 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Marcela Valko-Rokytovská
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Komenského 73, 041 81 Košice, Slovakia
- Correspondence: (M.V.-R.); (A.B.)
| | - Beáta Čižmárová
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Tr. SNP 1, 040 11 Košice, Slovakia
| | | | - Mária Mareková
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Tr. SNP 1, 040 11 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Anna Birková
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Tr. SNP 1, 040 11 Košice, Slovakia
- Correspondence: (M.V.-R.); (A.B.)
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16
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Pathology of Urologic Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153751. [PMID: 35954415 PMCID: PMC9367290 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We are pleased to present this Special Issue of Cancers, entitled “Pathology of Urologic Cancers” [...]
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17
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Li XY, Pi YN, Chen Y, Zhu Q, Xia BR. Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase: A Promising Biomarker and Target for Human Cancer Therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:894744. [PMID: 35756670 PMCID: PMC9218565 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.894744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells typically exhibit a tightly regulated program of metabolic plasticity and epigenetic remodeling to meet the demand of uncontrolled cell proliferation. The metabolic-epigenetic axis has recently become an increasingly hot topic in carcinogenesis and offers new avenues for innovative and personalized cancer treatment strategies. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is a metabolic enzyme involved in controlling methylation potential, impacting DNA and histone epigenetic modification. NNMT overexpression has been described in various solid cancer tissues and even body fluids, including serum, urine, and saliva. Furthermore, accumulating evidence has shown that NNMT knockdown significantly decreases tumorigenesis and chemoresistance capacity. Most importantly, the natural NNMT inhibitor yuanhuadine can reverse epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in lung cancer cells. In this review, we evaluate the possibility of NNMT as a diagnostic biomarker and molecular target for effective anticancer treatment. We also reveal the exact mechanisms of how NNMT affects epigenetics and the development of more potent and selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ya-Nan Pi
- Department of Gynecology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Bengbu Medical College Bengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Bai-Rong Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, Hefei, China
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18
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The Double-Edged Sword of Oxidative Stress in Skin Damage and Melanoma: From Physiopathology to Therapeutical Approaches. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11040612. [PMID: 35453297 PMCID: PMC9027913 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The skin is constantly exposed to exogenous and endogenous sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS). An adequate balance between ROS levels and antioxidant defenses is necessary for the optimal cell and tissue functions, especially for the skin, since it must face additional ROS sources that do not affect other tissues, including UV radiation. Melanocytes are more exposed to oxidative stress than other cells, also due to the melanin production process, which itself contributes to generating ROS. There is an increasing amount of evidence that oxidative stress may play a role in many skin diseases, including melanoma, being the primary cause or being a cofactor that aggravates the primary condition. Indeed, oxidative stress is emerging as another major force involved in all the phases of melanoma development, not only in the arising of the malignancy but also in the progression toward the metastatic phenotype. Furthermore, oxidative stress seems to play a role also in chemoresistance and thus has become a target for therapy. In this review, we discuss the existing knowledge on oxidative stress in the skin, examining sources and defenses, giving particular consideration to melanocytes. Therefore, we focus on the significance of oxidative stress in melanoma, thus analyzing the possibility to exploit the induction of oxidative stress as a therapeutic strategy to improve the effectiveness of therapeutic management of melanoma.
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19
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Tumor stromal nicotinamide N-methyltransferase overexpression as a prognostic biomarker for poor clinical outcome in early-stage colorectal cancer. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2767. [PMID: 35177765 PMCID: PMC8854702 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06772-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In a quest for prognostic biomarkers in early-stage colorectal cancer, we investigated NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) in large cohorts of patients. Immunohistochemical examination of 679 patients illustrates that NNMT protein is predominantly expressed in the cancer stroma at varying levels, and about 20% of cancer tissues overexpress NNMT when compared to levels observed in normal colorectal mucosa. Clinical correlation analyses of 572 patients with early-stage cancers reveal that NNMT protein overexpression is significantly associated with shorter overall and disease-free survival, but no such correlation is found in late-stage colorectal cancer. Analyses of TCGA and CPTAC colorectal cancer cohorts show that NNMT mRNA expression is positively correlated with protein levels, is significantly higher in CIMP-high or MSI subtypes than in CIMP-low or MSS subtypes, and is positively correlated with its paralog INMT but not with its interaction partners such as PNMT, ADK, APP, ATF6, BMF, BRD4, CDC37, or CRYZ. In early-stage cancers, NNMT expression is higher in BRAF-mutated than in BRAF wild type tumors but is not affected by KRAS or PIK3CA mutation status. As a cancer stromal protein with important roles in metabolism and cancer epigenetics, NNMT is emerging as a promising biomarker for risk stratification of early-stage cancers.
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20
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Martinez R, Huang W, Buck H, Rea S, Defnet AE, Kane MA, Shapiro P. Proteomic Changes in the Monolayer and Spheroid Melanoma Cell Models of Acquired Resistance to BRAF and MEK1/2 Inhibitors. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:3293-3311. [PMID: 35128241 PMCID: PMC8811929 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c05361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway inhibitors are important therapies for treating many cancers. However, acquired resistance to most protein kinase inhibitors limits their ability to provide durable responses. Approximately 50% of malignant melanomas contain activating mutations in BRAF, which promotes cancer cell survival through the direct phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase MAPK/ERK 1/2 (MEK1/2) and the activation of ERK1/2. Although the combination treatment with BRAF and MEK1/2 inhibitors is a recommended approach to treat melanoma, the development of drug resistance remains a barrier to achieving long-term patient benefits. Few studies have compared the global proteomic changes in BRAF/MEK1/2 inhibitor-resistant melanoma cells under different growth conditions. The current study uses high-resolution label-free mass spectrometry to compare relative protein changes in BRAF/MEK1/2 inhibitor-resistant A375 melanoma cells grown as monolayers or spheroids. While approximately 66% of proteins identified were common in the monolayer and spheroid cultures, only 6.2 or 3.6% of proteins that significantly increased or decreased, respectively, were common between the drug-resistant monolayer and spheroid cells. Drug-resistant monolayers showed upregulation of ERK-independent signaling pathways, whereas drug-resistant spheroids showed primarily elevated catabolic metabolism to support oxidative phosphorylation. These studies highlight the similarities and differences between monolayer and spheroid cell models in identifying actionable targets to overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Martinez
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United
States
| | - Weiliang Huang
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United
States
| | - Heather Buck
- Nathan
Schnaper Internship Program in Translational Cancer Research, Marlene
and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22S. Greene Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Samantha Rea
- Nathan
Schnaper Internship Program in Translational Cancer Research, Marlene
and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22S. Greene Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States
| | - Amy E. Defnet
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United
States
| | - Maureen A. Kane
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United
States
| | - Paul Shapiro
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 Penn Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United
States
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21
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Tatekawa S, Ofusa K, Chijimatsu R, Vecchione A, Tamari K, Ogawa K, Ishii H. Methylosystem for Cancer Sieging Strategy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5088. [PMID: 34680237 PMCID: PMC8534198 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As cancer is a genetic disease, methylation defines a biologically malignant phenotype of cancer in the association of one-carbon metabolism-dependent S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as a methyl donor in each cell. Methylated substances are involved in intracellular metabolism, but via intercellular communication, some of these can also be secreted to affect other substances. Although metabolic analysis at the single-cell level remains challenging, studying the "methylosystem" (i.e., the intercellular and intracellular communications of upstream regulatory factors and/or downstream effectors that affect the epigenetic mechanism involving the transfer of a methyl group from SAM onto the specific positions of nucleotides or other metabolites in the tumor microenvironment) and tracking these metabolic products are important research tasks for understanding spatial heterogeneity. Here, we discuss and highlight the involvement of RNA and nicotinamide, recently emerged targets, in SAM-producing one-carbon metabolism in cancer cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells. Their significance and implications will contribute to the discovery of efficient methods for the diagnosis of and therapeutic approaches to human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shotaro Tatekawa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (S.T.); (K.T.)
| | - Ken Ofusa
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (K.O.); (R.C.)
- Food and Life-Science Laboratory, Prophoenix Division, Idea Consultants, Inc., Osaka 559-8519, Japan
| | - Ryota Chijimatsu
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (K.O.); (R.C.)
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, Santo Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Keisuke Tamari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (S.T.); (K.T.)
| | - Kazuhiko Ogawa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (S.T.); (K.T.)
| | - Hideshi Ishii
- Department of Medical Data Science, Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Yamadaoka 2-2, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; (K.O.); (R.C.)
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22
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Beyond Nicotinamide Metabolism: Potential Role of Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase as a Biomarker in Skin Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194943. [PMID: 34638427 PMCID: PMC8508019 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin cancers (SC) collectively represent the most common type of malignancy in white populations. SC includes two main forms: malignant melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). NMSC includes different subtypes, namely, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), and keratoacanthoma (KA), together with the two pre-neoplastic conditions Bowen disease (BD) and actinic keratosis (AK). Both malignant melanoma and NMSC are showing an increasing incidence rate worldwide, thus representing an important challenge for health care systems, also because, with some exceptions, SC are generally characterized by an aggressive behavior and are often diagnosed late. Thus, identifying new biomarkers suitable for diagnosis, as well as for prognosis and targeted therapy is mandatory. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is an enzyme that is emerging as a crucial player in the progression of several malignancies, while its substrate, nicotinamide, is known to exert chemopreventive effects. Since there is increasing evidence regarding the involvement of this enzyme in the malignant behavior of SC, the current review aims to summarize the state of the art as concerns NNMT role in SC and to support future studies focused on exploring the diagnostic and prognostic potential of NNMT in skin malignancies and its suitability for targeted therapy.
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23
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The Utility of Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase as a Potential Biomarker to Predict the Oncological Outcomes for Urological Cancers: An Update. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081214. [PMID: 34439880 PMCID: PMC8393883 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyzes the N-methylation reaction of nicotinamide, using S-adenosyl-L-methionine as the methyl donor. Enzyme overexpression has been described in many non-neoplastic diseases, as well as in a wide range of solid malignancies. This review aims to report and discuss evidence available in scientific literature, dealing with NNMT expression and the potential involvement in main urologic neoplasms, namely, renal, bladder and prostate cancers. Data illustrated in the cited studies clearly demonstrated NNMT upregulation (pathological vs. normal tissue) in association with these aforementioned tumors. In addition to this, enzyme levels were also found to correlate with key prognostic parameters and patient survival. Interestingly, NNMT overexpression also emerged in peripheral body fluids, such as blood and urine, thus leading to candidate the enzyme as promising biomarker for the early and non-invasive detection of these cancers. Examined results undoubtedly showed NNMT as having the capacity to promote cell proliferation, migration and invasiveness, as well as its potential participation in fundamental events highlighting cancer progression, metastasis and resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. In the light of this evidence, it is reasonable to attribute to NNMT a promising role as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of urologic neoplasms, as well as a molecular target for effective anti-cancer treatment.
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24
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Campagna R, Mateuszuk Ł, Wojnar-Lason K, Kaczara P, Tworzydło A, Kij A, Bujok R, Mlynarski J, Wang Y, Sartini D, Emanuelli M, Chlopicki S. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in endothelium protects against oxidant stress-induced endothelial injury. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:119082. [PMID: 34153425 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT, EC 2.1.1.1.) plays an important role in the growth of many different tumours and is also involved in various non-neoplastic disorders. However, the presence and role of NNMT in the endothelium has yet to be specifically explored. Here, we characterized the functional activity of NNMT in the endothelium and tested whether NNMT regulates endothelial cell viability. NNMT in endothelial cells (HAEC, HMEC-1 and EA.hy926) was inhibited using two approaches: pharmacological inhibition of the enzyme by NNMT inhibitors (5-amino-1-methylquinoline - 5MQ and 6-methoxynicotinamide - JBSF-88) or by shRNA-mediated silencing. Functional inhibition of NNMT was confirmed by LC/MS/MS-based analysis of impaired MNA production. The effects of NNMT inhibition on cellular viability were analyzed in both the absence and presence of menadione. Our results revealed that all studied endothelial lines express relatively high levels of functionally active NNMT compared with cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). Although the aldehyde oxidase 1 enzyme was also expressed in the endothelium, the further metabolites of N1-methylnicotinamide (N1-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide and N1-methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide) generated by this enzyme were not detected, suggesting that endothelial NNMT-derived MNA was not subsequently metabolized in the endothelium by aldehyde oxidase 1. Menadione induced a concentration-dependent decrease in endothelial viability as evidenced by a decrease in cell number that was associated with the upregulation of NNMT and SIRT1 expression in the nucleus in viable cells. The suppression of the NNMT activity either by NNMT inhibitors or shRNA-based silencing significantly decreased the endothelial cell viability in response to menadione. Furthermore, NNMT inhibition resulted in nuclear SIRT1 expression downregulation and upregulation of the phosphorylated form of SIRT1 on Ser47. In conclusion, our results suggest that the endothelial nuclear NNMT/SIRT1 pathway exerts a cytoprotective role that safeguards endothelial cell viability under oxidant stress insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Campagna
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland; Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Łukasz Mateuszuk
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Kamila Wojnar-Lason
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland; Jagiellonian University Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, Chair of Pharmacology, Krakow, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kaczara
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Tworzydło
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kij
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Robert Bujok
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Mlynarski
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, LKS Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Stefan Chlopicki
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland; Jagiellonian University Medical College, Faculty of Medicine, Chair of Pharmacology, Krakow, Poland.
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25
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Campagna R, Salvolini E, Pompei V, Pozzi V, Salvucci A, Molinelli E, Brisigotti V, Sartini D, Campanati A, Offidani A, Emanuelli M. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase gene silencing enhances chemosensitivity of melanoma cell lines. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2021; 34:1039-1048. [PMID: 34018676 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma accounts for less than 5% of all cutaneous neoplasms but is responsible for the greater part of skin cancer-related deaths. Therefore, the identification of molecules that could serve as the therapeutic target is urgent. This study focused on the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT). The effect of NNMT knockdown on cell proliferation and migration of A375 melanoma cells was evaluated by MTT and wound healing assays, respectively. Viability of A375 cells downregulating NNMT was also explored under treatment with dacarbazine, a chemotherapeutic drug approved for advanced melanoma treatment. The impact of enzyme knockdown on cell proliferation and chemosensitivity was also investigated in WM-115 melanoma cells. Results obtained demonstrated that NNMT silencing led to a significant reduction of cell proliferation and migration of A375 cells. Moreover, enzyme downregulation was associated with an increase of melanoma cells sensitivity to treatment with dacarbazine. Analogous effects induced by enzyme knockdown on cell proliferation and chemosensitivity were also found in the WM-115 cell line. Our data seem to demonstrate that NNMT could represent a promising molecular target for the effective treatment of this form of skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Veronica Pompei
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessia Salvucci
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Molinelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valerio Brisigotti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Anna Campanati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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26
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Primary Dermal Melanoma: A Rare Clinicopathological Variant Mimicking Metastatic Melanoma. Dermatopathology (Basel) 2021; 8:29-32. [PMID: 33535371 PMCID: PMC7931035 DOI: 10.3390/dermatopathology8010005] [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: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary dermal melanoma (PDM) is a rare distinct variant of cutaneous melanoma, predominantly occurring on the extremities of young or middle-aged adults. In comparison to conventional melanoma, PDM is characterized by unexpectedly prolonged survival and long-term survival. Thus, correct identification of this variant is crucial to avoid potential misdiagnosis and establish correct treatment and follow-up. In addition, no consensus and specific guidelines exist on the management of this peculiar subtype of cutaneous melanoma.
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27
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Wu M, Hu W, Wang G, Yao Y, Yu XF. Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase Is a Prognostic Biomarker and Correlated With Immune Infiltrates in Gastric Cancer. Front Genet 2020; 11:580299. [PMID: 33193702 PMCID: PMC7655872 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.580299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related death in the word. Immunotherapy is a promising treatment of cancer. However, it is unclear which GC subpopulation would benefit most from immunotherapy and it is necessary to develop effective biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is a metabolic regulator of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) differentiation and cancer progression. In this study, we explored the correlations of NNMT to tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and immune marker sets in The Cancer Genome Atlas Stomach Adenocarcinoma STAD (TCGA-STAD). Subsequently, we screened the NNMT correlated genes and performed the enrichment analysis of these genes. We eventually predicted the 19 most potential small-molecule drugs using the connectivity map (CMap) and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Also, nadolol, tranexamic acid, felbinac and dapsone were considered the four most promising drugs for GC. In summary, NNMT can be used as a prognostic biomarker that reflect immune infiltration level and a novel therapeutic target in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaowei Wu
- Cancer Institute, Second Affiliated Hospital, Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weilei Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guosheng Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yihan Yao
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Fang Yu
- Cancer Institute, Second Affiliated Hospital, Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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28
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Mascitti M, Sartini D, Togni L, Pozzi V, Rubini C, Santarelli A, Emanuelli M. Differential expression of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in primary and recurrent ameloblastomas and odontogenic keratocysts. Eur J Clin Invest 2020; 50:e13220. [PMID: 32129473 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Odontogenic tumours are a group of rare heterogeneous diseases that range from hamartomatous tissue proliferations to benign and malignant neoplasms. Recurrences can occur after 10 years, so long-term clinical and radiological follow-up is required. The study of the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of these lesions is necessary to identify new prognostic markers. In this study, we evaluate the possible role of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) in ameloblastomas (AM) and odontogenic keratocysts (OKC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 105 surgical specimens of primary and recurrent lesions were obtained from 55 patients (25 AM, 30 OKC). In particular, 50 AMs (25 primary, 25 recurrences) and 55 OKCs (30 primary, 25 recurrences) were retrieved. We carried out immunohistochemical analyses to evaluate the cytoplasmic expression of NNMT, measuring the percentage of positive cells and the value of NNMT expression intensity. RESULTS NNMT expression was significantly higher in recurrent than primary AMs (P = .0430). This result was confirmed by staining intensity, showing more cases with moderate/intense staining in recurrent AMs (P = .0470). NNMT expression was significantly lower in recurrent than primary OKC (P = .0014). Staining intensity showed more cases with moderate/intense staining in primary OKCs (P = .0276). CONCLUSIONS This report is the first to evaluate NNMT expression in odontogenic lesions and to demonstrate a differential expression in recurrent AMs and OKCs, suggesting that there is potential for use of NNMT as prognostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Mascitti
- Department of Clinical Specialistic and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Specialistic and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Togni
- Department of Clinical Specialistic and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valentina Pozzi
- New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Corrado Rubini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Santarelli
- Department of Clinical Specialistic and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy.,Dentistry Clinic, National Institute of Health and Science of Aging, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Specialistic and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
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29
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Pozzi V, Salvolini E, Lucarini G, Salvucci A, Campagna R, Rubini C, Sartini D, Emanuelli M. Cancer stem cell enrichment is associated with enhancement of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase expression. IUBMB Life 2020; 72:1415-1425. [PMID: 32150326 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The cancer stem cell theory states that a subset of tumor cells, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), has the ability to self-renew and differentiate within the tumors. According to this theory, CSCs would be mainly responsible for tumor initiation, progression, resistance to therapy, recurrence, and metastasis. In this study, a culture system was setup to enrich CSCs from bladder cancer (T24), lung cancer (A549), colorectal cancer (CaCo-2), and osteosarcoma (MG63) cell lines, through sphere formation. Magnetic-activated cell sorting was also used to further increase CSC enrichment. Subsequently, molecular characterization of CSC-enriched cell populations and parental cells was carried out, by exploring the expression levels of stem markers and the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT). Results obtained showed a significant upregulation of stem cell markers in CSC-enriched populations, obtained upon sphere formation, compared with parental counterparts. Moreover, NNMT expression levels were markedly increased in samples enriched with CSCs with respect to control cells. Considering the fundamental role played by CSCs in carcinogenesis, reported data strengthen the hypothesis that sustains a pivotal role of NNMT in cancer growth and metastasis. In addition, these findings could represent an important achievement for the development of new and effective anticancer therapies, based on CSC-associated targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Guendalina Lucarini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessia Salvucci
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Corrado Rubini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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30
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Song M, Li Y, Miao M, Zhang F, Yuan H, Cao F, Chang W, Shi H, Song C. High stromal nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) indicates poor prognosis in colorectal cancer. Cancer Med 2020; 9:2030-2038. [PMID: 31989785 PMCID: PMC7064029 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Nicotinamide n-methyltransferase (NNMT) has good biochemical activity and epigenetic regulation, and has been reported as a major metabolic regulator of cancer. The goal of this study was to investigate the significance of stromal NNMT expression in colorectal cancer (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Stromal expression of NNMT in primary CRC, metastasis CRC, and their non-cancerous tissues from 1088 CRC patients was examined by immunohistochemistry. The associations between stromal NNMT expression and survival outcomes in 967 patients with stage I-III CRC were further evaluated with Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox model analyses. RESULTS NNMT expression was mainly sourced from stromal compartments and also elevated in CRC. Patients with high stromal NNMT (IHC-score ≥ 106) have a worse survival than those patients with low stromal NNMT. In multiple Cox analyses, high expression of stromal NNMT remained as an independent risk factor in CRC for disease-free survival with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.415 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.015-1.972) and disease-specific survival with a HR of 5.004 (95% CI, 2.301-10.883). In addition, high stromal NNMT expression in CRC also indicates the poor survival outcomes in patients with early stage CRC (stage I and II) and in patients who undergo chemotherapy. CONCLUSION NNMT is mainly located in CRC stromal compartment. High stromal NNMT expression predicts an unfavorable postoperative prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Song
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Digestive Endoscopy, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingyong Miao
- Department of Biochemistry, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- Department of Environmental Health, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuao Cao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjun Chang
- Department of Environmental Health, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanping Shi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery/Clinical Nutrition, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunhua Song
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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31
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Pompei V, Salvolini E, Rubini C, Lucarini G, Molinelli E, Brisigotti V, Pozzi V, Sartini D, Campanati A, Offidani A, Emanuelli M. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in nonmelanoma skin cancers. Eur J Clin Invest 2019; 49:e13175. [PMID: 31571214 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represent the most common forms of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Although successful treatment of these neoplasms is based on surgical excision, an increasing number of BCCs relapses and many SCCs display high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is a cytosolic enzyme, which was found to be upregulated in different solid tumours. However, there are no data regarding enzyme expression in NMSCs. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the potential involvement of NNMT in BCCs and SCCs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Immunohistochemical analyses were carried out on 40 BCC cases and 39 SCC cases, to evaluate enzyme expression in tumour and surrounding healthy margins. Moreover, the relationship between NNMT intratumour levels and clinico-pathological parameters were explored. RESULTS Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase was found to be overexpressed in BCCs compared with control tissues, while a significant enzyme downregulation was detected in SCCs with respect to corresponding healthy margins. In addition, NNMT levels were negatively related to aggressiveness of both BCCs (distinguishing between infiltrative and nodular tumours) and SCCs (considering head and neck forms and tumours of the extremities and trunk). CONCLUSIONS These evidences seem to demonstrate that the different NNMT dysregulation detected in BCC and SCC may be the result of important biological traits distinctively characterizing these two forms within NMSCs. In addition, enzyme levels seem to be inversely correlated with tumour aggressiveness, thus suggesting the potential suitability of the enzyme as a prognostic biomarker for both neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Pompei
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Corrado Rubini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Guendalina Lucarini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Molinelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valerio Brisigotti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Anna Campanati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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32
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Sartini D, Pompei V, Lucarini G, Rubini C, Molinelli E, Brisigotti V, Salvolini E, Campanati A, Offidani A, Emanuelli M. Differential expression of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in cutaneous keratoacanthoma and squamous cell carcinoma: an immunohistochemical study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2019; 34:e121-e123. [PMID: 31705831 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - V Pompei
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Lucarini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - C Rubini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - E Molinelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - V Brisigotti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - E Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Campanati
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - M Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
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33
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Search for novel STAT3-dependent genes reveals SERPINA3 as a new STAT3 target that regulates invasion of human melanoma cells. J Transl Med 2019; 99:1607-1621. [PMID: 31278347 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-019-0288-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is constitutively activated in many cancers and promotes uncontrolled tumor growth and progression through multiple mechanisms. Compelling evidence shows tissue and cell-specific sets of STAT3 targets. Transcriptional targets of STAT3 in melanoma cells are largely unknown. Malignant melanoma is a deadly disease with highly aggressive and drug-resistant behavior. Less than 10% of patients with advanced melanomas reach the 5-year survival, partly due to the aggressive character of the tumor and ineffectiveness of current therapeutics for treating metastatic melanoma. STAT3 is constitutively activated in melanoma cells and plays important roles in its growth and angiogenesis in tumor xenograft studies. Moreover, highly metastatic melanoma cells have higher levels of active STAT3 than poorly metastatic ones. To identify genes that are driven by STAT3 in human melanoma cells, we performed JAK/STAT signaling specific and global gene expression profiling of human melanoma cells with silenced STAT3 expression. For selected genes, we performed computational identification of putative STAT3-binding sites and validated direct interactions STAT3 with defined promoters by using chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by qPCR. We found that STAT3 knockdown does not affect human melanoma cell viability, proliferation, or response to chemotherapeutics. We show that STAT3 regulates a discrete set of genes in melanoma cells, including SERPINA3, a novel STAT3 target gene, which is functionally involved in regulation of melanoma migration and invasion. Knockdown of STAT3 impaired cell migration and invasion, in part via regulation of its transcriptional target SERPINA3. Our results present novel targets and functions of STAT3 in melanoma cells.
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34
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Analysis of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in oral malignant melanoma and potential prognostic significance. Melanoma Res 2019; 29:151-156. [DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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35
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Liu Y, Clement J, Grant R, Sachdev P, Braidy N. Quantitation of NAD+: Why do we need to measure it? Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1862:2527-2532. [PMID: 30048742 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential pyridine nucleotide that is currently investigated as an important target to extend lifespan and health span. Age-related NAD+ depletion due to the accumulation of oxidative stress is associated with reduced energy production, impaired DNA repair and genomic instability. SCOPE OF REVIEW NAD+ levels can be elevated therapeutically using NAD+ precursors or through lifestyle modifications including exercise and caloric restriction. However, high amounts of NAD+ may be detrimental in cancer progression and may have deleterious immunogenic roles. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Standardized quantitation of NAD+ and related metabolites may therefore represent an important component of NAD+ therapy. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Quantitation of NAD+ may serve dual roles not only as an ageing biomarker, but also as a diagnostic tool for the prevention of malignant disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Liu
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Ross Grant
- Australasian Research Institute, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Perminder Sachdev
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Neuropsychiatric Institute, Euroa Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nady Braidy
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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