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Xia H, Huang Z, Wang Z, Liu S, Zhao X, You J, Xu Y, Yam JWP, Cui Y. Glucometabolic reprogramming: From trigger to therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:953668. [PMID: 35912218 PMCID: PMC9336635 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.953668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucose, the central macronutrient, releases energy as ATP through carbon bond oxidation and supports various physiological functions of living organisms. Hepatocarcinogenesis relies on the bioenergetic advantage conferred by glucometabolic reprogramming. The exploitation of reformed metabolism induces a uniquely inert environment conducive to survival and renders the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells the extraordinary ability to thrive even in the nutrient-poor tumor microenvironment. The rewired metabolism also confers a defensive barrier which protects the HCC cells from environmental stress and immune surveillance. Additionally, targeted interventions against key players of HCC metabolic and signaling pathways provide promising prospects for tumor therapy. The active search for novel drugs based on innovative mutation targets is warranted in the future for effectively treating advanced HCC and the preoperative downstage. This article aims to review the regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic value of glucometabolic reprogramming on the disease progression of HCC, to gain insights into basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoming Xia
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Ziyue Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhensheng Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuqiang Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Junqi You
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- The Key Laboratory of Myocardial Ischemia, Harbin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Harbin, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Xu, ; Judy Wai Ping Yam, ; Yunfu Cui,
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Xu, ; Judy Wai Ping Yam, ; Yunfu Cui,
| | - Yunfu Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Xu, ; Judy Wai Ping Yam, ; Yunfu Cui,
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2
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Du Y, Broering R, Li X, Zhang X, Liu J, Yang D, Lu M. In Vivo Mouse Models for Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Their Application. Front Immunol 2021; 12:766534. [PMID: 34777385 PMCID: PMC8586444 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.766534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of effective vaccination, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to be a major challenge worldwide. Research efforts are ongoing to find an effective cure for the estimated 250 million people chronically infected by HBV in recent years. The exceptionally limited host spectrum of HBV has limited the research progress. Thus, different HBV mouse models have been developed and used for studies on infection, immune responses, pathogenesis, and antiviral therapies. However, these mouse models have great limitations as no spread of HBV infection occurs in the mouse liver and no or only very mild hepatitis is present. Thus, the suitability of these mouse models for a given issue and the interpretation of the results need to be critically assessed. This review summarizes the currently available mouse models for HBV research, including hydrodynamic injection, viral vector-mediated transfection, recombinant covalently closed circular DNA (rc-cccDNA), transgenic, and liver humanized mouse models. We systematically discuss the characteristics of each model, with the main focus on hydrodynamic injection mouse model. The usefulness and limitations of each mouse model are discussed based on the published studies. This review summarizes the facts for considerations of the use and suitability of mouse model in future HBV studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqin Du
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ruth Broering
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Xiaoran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongliang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengji Lu
- Institute for Virology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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3
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Zhang X, Wang X, Wu M, Ghildyal R, Yuan Z. Animal Models for the Study of Hepatitis B Virus Pathobiology and Immunity: Past, Present, and Future. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:715450. [PMID: 34335553 PMCID: PMC8322840 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.715450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health problem that plagues approximately 240 million people. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) often leads to liver inflammation and aberrant repair which results in diseases ranging from liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, to hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite its narrow species tropism, researchers have established various in vivo models for HBV or its related viruses which have provided a wealth of knowledge on viral lifecycle, pathogenesis, and immunity. Here we briefly revisit over five decades of endeavor in animal model development for HBV and summarize their advantages and limitations. We also suggest directions for further improvements that are crucial for elucidation of the viral immune-evasion strategies and for development of novel therapeutics for a functional cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Zhang
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Reena Ghildyal
- Centre for Research in Therapeutic Solutions, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Zhenghong Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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4
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Lin YH, Wu MH, Liu YC, Lyu PC, Yeh CT, Lin KH. LINC01348 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through inhibition of SF3B3-mediated EZH2 pre-mRNA splicing. Oncogene 2021; 40:4675-4685. [PMID: 34140643 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01905-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) play crucial roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. However, the specific functions of lncRNAs in alternative splicing (AS) and the metastatic cascade in liver cancer remain largely unclear. In this study, we identified a novel lncRNA, LINC01348, which was significantly downregulated in HCC and correlated with survival functions in HCC patients. Ectopic expression of LINC01348 induced marked inhibition of cell growth, and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, these phenotypes were reversed upon knockdown of LINC01348. Mechanistically, LINC01348 complexed with splicing factor 3b subunit 3 (SF3B3) acted as a modulator of EZH2 pre-mRNA AS, and induced alterations in JNK/c-Jun activity and expression of Snail. Notably, C-terminal truncated HBx (Ct-HBx) negatively regulated LINC01348 through c-Jun signaling. Our data collectively highlight those novel regulatory associations involving LINC01348/SF3B3/EZH2/JNK/c-Jun/Snail are an important determinant of metastasis in HCC cells and support the potential utility of targeting LINC01348 as a therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Hsiang Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Han Wu
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chung Liu
- Institute of Population Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chiang Lyu
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Kwang-Huei Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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5
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Niu Y, Chen L, Wu M, Huang W, Wu X, Huang D, Xie Y, Shi G. Partial abrogation of FXR-KNG1 signaling by carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx-C30 in hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma. Virus Res 2021; 293:198264. [PMID: 33359549 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2020.198264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) X protein (HBx) is a key regulator of HBV-associated hepatocarcinogenesis. C-terminal-truncated HBx is frequently detected in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The role of HBx, especially C-terminal-truncated HBx, in HCC pathogenesis has been controversial. To elucidate the biological role of C-terminal-truncated HBx underlying HBV-associated hepato-oncogenesis, we constructed a vector expressing HBx-C30 (deletion of 30 aa from the C terminus of HBx) and functionally analyzed its regulation on farnesoid X receptor (FXR) signaling, which is known to inhibit hepatocarcinogenesis. In the present study, we found full-length HBx and HBx C-terminal truncation coexist in HCC, and both full length HBx and HBx-C30 can activate FXR signaling. Moreover, HBx-C30 weakly coactivates FXR-KNG1 signaling compared to full-length HBx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongdong Niu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Guangdong, China.
| | - Liming Chen
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Manpeng Wu
- The Second People's Hospital of Shantou, Shantou, China
| | - Weiyi Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuejun Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Guangdong, China
| | - Danmei Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Guangdong, China
| | - Yangmin Xie
- Department of Experimental Animal Center, Medical College of Shantou University, Guangdong, China
| | - Ganggang Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Guangdong, China.
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6
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Zhang Y, Yan Q, Gong L, Xu H, Liu B, Fang X, Yu D, Li L, Wei T, Wang Y, Wong CN, Lyu Z, Tang Y, Sham PC, Guan XY. C-terminal truncated HBx initiates hepatocarcinogenesis by downregulating TXNIP and reprogramming glucose metabolism. Oncogene 2020; 40:1147-1161. [PMID: 33323975 PMCID: PMC7878188 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is strongly associated with the initiation and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the genetic alterations and pathogenesis mechanisms remain significantly unexplored, especially for HBV-induced metabolic reprogramming. Analysis of integration breakpoints in HBV-positive HCC samples revealed the preferential clustering pattern within the 3′-end of X gene in the HBV genome, leading to the production of C-terminal truncated X protein (Ct-HBx). In this study, we not only characterized the oncogenic role of two Ct-HBx (HBx-120 and HBx-134) via in vitro and in vivo functional assays but also deciphered their underlying molecular mechanisms. Gene expression profiling by transcriptome sequencing identified potential targets of Ct-HBx and novel malignant hallmarks such as glycolysis, cell cycle, and m-TORC1 signaling in Ct-HBx-expressing cells. TXNIP, a well-established regulator of glucose metabolism, was shown to be downregulated by Ct-HBx and play a pivotal role in Ct-HBx-mediated HCC progression. Suppression of TXNIP is frequently observed in HCC patients with Ct-HBx expression and significantly (P = 0.015) correlated to a poorer prognosis. Re-introduction of TXNIP attenuated the metabolic reprogramming induced by the Ct-HBx and inhibited the tumor growth in the mice model. Further study suggested that Ct-HBx could downregulate TXNIP via a transcriptional repressor nuclear factor of activated T cells 2 (NFACT2). Collectively, our findings indicate that TXNIP plays a critical role in Ct-HBx-mediated hepatocarcinogenesis, serving as a novel therapeutic strategy in HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Qian Yan
- Research Center of Medical Science, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510030, China.,Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - Lanqi Gong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Beilei Liu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaona Fang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Dandan Yu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Biology, The Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ting Wei
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ching Ngar Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhaojie Lyu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ying Tang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Pak Chung Sham
- Department of Psychiatry, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. .,State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. .,Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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7
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Ahodantin J, Lekbaby B, Bou Nader M, Soussan P, Kremsdorf D. Hepatitis B virus X protein enhances the development of liver fibrosis and the expression of genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transitions and tumor progenitor cells. Carcinogenesis 2020; 41:358-367. [PMID: 31175830 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgz109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) has pleiotropic biological effects, which underlies its potential role in cell transformation. However, its involvement in hepatic fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, we wanted to clarify, in vivo, the role of HBx protein in the development of liver fibrosis. Mice transgenic for the full-length HBx (FL-HBx) were used. To create liver fibrosis, FL-HBx transgenic and control mice were chronically exposed to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Modulation of the expression of proteins involved in matrix remodeling, hepatic metabolism and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were investigated. In transgenic mice, FL-HBx expression potentiates CCl4-induced liver fibrosis with increased expression of proteins involved in matrix remodeling (Collagen1a, α-Sma, PdgfR-β, MMP-13). In FL-HBx transgenic mice, an increase in EMT was observed with a higher transcription of two inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and TGF-β) and a decrease of glutamine synthetase expression level. This was associated with a sustained cell cycle and hepatocyte polyploidy alteration consistent with p38 and ERK1/2 overactivation, increase of PLK1 transcription, accumulation of SQSTM1/p62 protein and increase expression of Beclin-1. This correlates with a higher expression of tumor progenitor cell markers (AFP, Ly6D and EpCam), indicating a higher risk of progression from fibrosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the presence of FL-HBx protein. In conclusion, our results show that FL-HBx protein enhances the development of liver fibrosis and contributes to the progression of liver disease from chronic hepatitis to HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ahodantin
- Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, ERL8255), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Bouchra Lekbaby
- Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, ERL8255), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Myriam Bou Nader
- Team Proliferation Stress and Liver Physiopathology, Genome and Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Paris, France.,Sorbonne Unversité, USPC, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Soussan
- Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, ERL8255), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Dina Kremsdorf
- Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, ERL8255), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm, UMR1135), Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
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8
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Lin CL, Chien RN, Chu YD, Liang KH, Huang YH, Ke PY, Lin KH, Lin YH, Yeh CT. Hepatitis B virus X gene mutants emerge during antiviral therapy and increase cccDNA levels to compensate for replication suppression. Hepatol Int 2020; 14:973-984. [PMID: 32770306 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-020-10079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) X gene (HBx) mutants can develop during the natural course of chronic HBV infection. However, little is known about whether the emergence of HBx mutants during long-term antiviral therapy is an adaptation of HBV to antiviral stress. This study was to identify HBx mutants that emerged in patients experiencing Lamivudine resistance or suboptimal treatment. METHODS Forty-six Lamivudine-resistant patients and 46 patients with suboptimal treatment responses to Entecavir were enrolled in this study. HBx mutants were identified by sequence analysis and their roles in the HBV replication cycle were characterized. RESULTS We show that deletion/truncation/insertion mutations were only detected in the Lamivudine resistance group, while synonymous mutations were found in both groups. Follow-up analyses revealed that five patients in the Lamivudine group developed hepatocellular carcinoma, while patients in the Entecavir group did not. These mutants were characterized by a significant decrease in transactivation of the pre-S1 promoter, and varying effects on transactivation of the X promoter. Co-transfection of HBx-mutant plasmid and HBV replication-competent clone into HepG2 cells resulted in increased nuclear-to-cytoplamic HBV core antigen, HBV-DNA ratios, and nuclear covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Antiviral drug sensitivity assays revealed that these mutants exhibited a compensatory effect to counteract antiviral drug suppression, resulting in elevated secretory HBV-DNA levels. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that HBx mutants can emerge during Lamivudine or Entecavir therapy. These mutants exhibit altered transactivation of the HBV pre-S1 and X promoters, leading to increased cccDNA levels to compensate for replication suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Lang Lin
- Liver Research Unit, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan.,Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Nan Chien
- Liver Research Unit, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan.,Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-De Chu
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kung-Hao Liang
- Medical Research Department, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Hui Huang
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yuan Ke
- Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kwang-Huei Lin
- Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Hsiang Lin
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Chau-Ting Yeh
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Medical Research Department, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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9
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Mouse Models for Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111800. [PMID: 31731753 PMCID: PMC6896030 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the dominant causes of cancer-related mortality, and the survival rate of liver cancer is among the lowest for all cancers. Immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has yielded some encouraging results, but the percentage of patients responding to single-agent therapies remains low. Therefore, potential directions for improved immunotherapies include identifying new immune targets and checkpoints and customizing treatment procedures for individual patients. The development of combination therapies for HCC is also crucial and urgent and, thus, further studies are required. Mice have been utilized in immunotherapy research due to several advantages, for example, being low in cost, having high success rates for inducing tumor growth, and so on. Moreover, immune-competent mice are used in immunotherapy research to clarify the role that the immune system plays in cancer growth. In this review paper, the advantages and disadvantages of mouse models for immunotherapy, the equipment that are used for monitoring HCC, and the cell strains used for inducing HCC are reviewed.
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10
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Jegal ME, Jung SY, Han YS, Kim YJ. C-terminal truncated HBx reduces doxorubicin cytotoxicity via ABCB1 upregulation in Huh-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. BMB Rep 2019. [PMID: 30982500 PMCID: PMC6549916 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2019.52.5.312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) encoding the HBV x protein (HBx) is a known causative agent of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its pathogenic activities in HCC include interference with several signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation and apoptosis. Mutant C-terminal-truncated HBx isoforms are frequently found in human HCC and have been shown to enhance proliferation and invasiveness leading to HCC malignancy. We investigated the molecular mechanism of the reduced doxorubicin cytotoxicity by C-terminal truncated HBx. Cells transfected with C-terminal truncated HBx exhibited reduced cytotoxicity to doxorubicin compared to those transfected with full-length HBx. The doxorubicin resistance of cells expressing C-terminal truncated HBx correlated with upregulation of the ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1(ABCB1) transporter, resulting in the enhanced efflux of doxorubicin. Inhibiting the activity of ABCB1 and silencing ABCB1 expression by small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) increased the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin. These results indicate that elevated ABCB1 expression induced by C-terminal truncation of HBx was responsible for doxorubicin resistance in HCC. Hence, co-treatment with an ABCB1 inhibitor and an anticancer agent may be effective for the treatment of patients with liver cancer containing the C-terminal truncated HBx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeong-Eun Jegal
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Seung-Youn Jung
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Yu-Seon Han
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Yung-Jin Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Science, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
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11
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Torresi J, Tran BM, Christiansen D, Earnest-Silveira L, Schwab RHM, Vincan E. HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis: the role of signalling pathways and innovative ex vivo research models. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:707. [PMID: 31319796 PMCID: PMC6637598 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5916-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the leading cause of liver cancer, but the mechanisms by which HBV causes liver cancer are poorly understood and chemotherapeutic strategies to cure liver cancer are not available. A better understanding of how HBV requisitions cellular components in the liver will identify novel therapeutic targets for HBV associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MAIN BODY The development of HCC involves deregulation in several cellular signalling pathways including Wnt/FZD/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, IRS1/IGF, and Ras/Raf/MAPK. HBV is known to dysregulate several hepatocyte pathways and cell cycle regulation resulting in HCC development. A number of these HBV induced changes are also mediated through the Wnt/FZD/β-catenin pathway. The lack of a suitable human liver model for the study of HBV has hampered research into understanding pathogenesis of HBV. Primary human hepatocytes provide one option; however, these cells are prone to losing their hepatic functionality and their ability to support HBV replication. Another approach involves induced-pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived hepatocytes. However, iPS technology relies on retroviruses or lentiviruses for effective gene delivery and pose the risk of activating a range of oncogenes. Liver organoids developed from patient-derived liver tissues provide a significant advance in HCC research. Liver organoids retain the characteristics of their original tissue, undergo unlimited expansion, can be differentiated into mature hepatocytes and are susceptible to natural infection with HBV. CONCLUSION By utilizing new ex vivo techniques like liver organoids it will become possible to develop improved and personalized therapeutic approaches that will improve HCC outcomes and potentially lead to a cure for HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Bang Manh Tran
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Dale Christiansen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Linda Earnest-Silveira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Renate Hilda Marianne Schwab
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Elizabeth Vincan
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010 Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
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12
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Salpini R, Battisti A, Colagrossi L, Di Carlo D, Fabeni L, Piermatteo L, Cerva C, Lichtner M, Mastroianni C, Marignani M, Maylin S, Delaugerre C, Morisco F, Coppola N, Marrone A, Angelico M, Sarmati L, Andreoni M, Perno CF, Ceccherini-Silberstein F, Svicher V. A snapshot of virological presentation and outcome of immunosuppression-driven HBV reactivation from real clinical practice: Evidence of a relevant risk of death and evolution from silent to chronic infection. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:846-855. [PMID: 30974483 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The study was undertaken in order to provide a snapshot from real clinical practice of virological presentation and outcome of patients developing immunosuppression-driven HBV reactivation. Seventy patients with HBV reactivation were included (66.2% treated with rituximab, 10% with corticosteroids and 23.8% with other immunosuppressive drugs). Following HBV reactivation, patients received anti-HBV treatment for a median (IQR) follow-up of 31(13-47) months. At baseline-screening, 72.9% of patients were HBsAg-negative and 27.1% HBsAg-positive. About 71.4% had a diagnosis of biochemical reactivation [median (IQR) HBV DNA and ALT: 6.9 (5.4-7.8) log IU/mL and 359 (102-775) U/L]. Moreover, 10% of patients died from hepatic failure. Antiviral prophylaxis was documented in 57.9% and 15.7% of HBsAg-positive and HBsAg-negative patients at baseline-screening (median [IQR] prophylaxis duration: 24[15-33] and 25[17-36] months, respectively). Notably, HBV reactivation occurred 2-24 months after completing the recommended course of anti-HBV prophylaxis in 35.3% of patients. By analysing treatment outcome, the cumulative probability of ALT normalization and of virological suppression was 97% and 69%, respectively. Nevertheless, in patients negative to HBsAg at baseline-screening, only 27% returned to HBsAg-negative status during prolonged follow-up, suggesting the establishment of chronic infection. In conclusion, most patients received a diagnosis of HBV reactivation accompanied by high ALT and 10% died for hepatic failure, supporting the importance of strict monitoring for an early HBV reactivation diagnosis. Furthermore, HBV reactivation correlates with high risk of HBV chronicity in patients negative for HBsAg at baseline-screening, converting a silent into a chronic infection, requiring long-term antiviral treatment. Finally, a relevant proportion of patients experienced HBV reactivation after completing the recommended course of anti-HBV prophylaxis, suggesting the need to reconsider proper duration of prophylaxis particularly in profound immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Salpini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Battisti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Luna Colagrossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.,Department of Microbiology and Virology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Di Carlo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.,Pediatric Clinical Research Center 'Romeo and Erica Invernizzi', University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lavinia Fabeni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Piermatteo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Cerva
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Lichtner
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Mastroianni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Marignani
- Department of Digestive and Liver Disease, S.Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Sarah Maylin
- Laboratoire de Virologie, AP-HP Hopital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | | | - Filomena Morisco
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Coppola
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Mental Health and Public Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Aldo Marrone
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Angelico
- Hepatology Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Sarmati
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Andreoni
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo-Federico Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Oncohematology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Svicher
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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13
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Mao X, Tey SK, Ko FCF, Kwong EML, Gao Y, Ng IOL, Cheung ST, Guan XY, Yam JWP. C-terminal truncated HBx protein activates caveolin-1/LRP6/β-catenin/FRMD5 axis in promoting hepatocarcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 2019; 444:60-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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14
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Hepatitis B virus X protein promotes DNA damage propagation through disruption of liver polyploidization and enhances hepatocellular carcinoma initiation. Oncogene 2018; 38:2645-2657. [PMID: 30538294 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0607-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) contributes to Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related liver cancer. However, its impact on hepatocyte proliferation and genomic stability remains elusive. We studied the role of HBx expression on the progression of cell cycle and liver polyploidization during proliferation and liver carcinogenesis. Full-length HBx transgenic mice (FL-HBx) were developed to investigate liver ploidy as well as hepatocyte proliferation, along normal liver maturation and during cancer initiation (chemical carcinogen treatment). Investigation of postnatal liver development in FL-HBx showed an aberrant G1/S and G2/M transitions, triggered (1) a delay of the formation of hepatocytes binucleation, (2) the early synthesis of polyploidy nuclei (≥4n) and (3) DNA damage appearance. Moreover, HBV infection during hepatocytes proliferation in a humanized liver mouse model led, to modifications in polyploidy of hepatocytes. In initiation of hepatocellular carcinoma, FL-HBx protein decreased ChK1 phosphorylation, Mre11 and Rad51 expression, upregulated IL-6 expression and impaired apoptosis. This was related to DNA damage accumulation in FL-HBx mice. At day 75 after initiation of hepatocellular carcinoma, FL-HBx mice revealed significant cell cycle changes related to the increased amount of 4n nuclei and of markers of cancer progenitor cells. Finally, PLK1 upregulation and p38/ERK activation in FL-HBx mice were implicated in aberrant polyploidization favoring DNA damage propagation and hepatocyte transformation. In conclusion, our data indicate that FL-HBx protein increases DNA damage through the hijack of hepatocyte polyploidization. That leads to enhancement of hepatocellular carcinoma initiation in an inflammatory context.
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15
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C-terminal truncated hepatitis B virus X protein promotes hepatocellular carcinogenesis through induction of cancer and stem cell-like properties. Oncotarget 2018; 7:24005-17. [PMID: 27006468 PMCID: PMC5029680 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor relapse after chemotherapy typifies hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is believed to be attributable to residual cancer stem cells (CSCs) that survive initial treatment. Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) has long been linked to the development of HCC. Upon infection, random HBV genome integration can lead to truncation of hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein at the C-terminus. The resulting C-terminal-truncated HBx (HBx-ΔC) was previously shown to confer enhanced invasiveness and diminished apoptotic response in HCC cells. Here, we found HBx-ΔC to promote the appearance of a CD133 liver CSC subset and confer cancer and stem cell-like features in HCC. HBx-ΔC was exclusively detected in HCC cell lines that were raised from patients presented with a HBV background with concomitant CD133 expression. Stable overexpression of the naturally occurring HBx-ΔC mutants, HBx-Δ14 or HBx-Δ35, in HCC cells Huh7 and immortalized normal liver cells MIHA resulted in a significant increase in the cells ability to self-renew, resist chemotherapy and targeted therapy, migrate and induce angiogenesis. MIHA cells with the mutants stably overexpressed also resulted in the induction of CD133, mediated through STAT3 activation. RNA sequencing profiling of MIHA cells with or without HBx-ΔC mutants stably overexpressed identified altered FXR activation. This, together with rescue experiments using a selective FXR inhibitor suggested that C-terminal truncated HBx can mediate cancer stemness via FXR activation. Collectively, we find C-terminal truncated HBx mutants to confer cancer and stem cell-like features in vitro and to play an important role in driving tumor relapse in HCC.
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16
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Zhang JF, Xiong HL, Cao JL, Wang SJ, Guo XR, Lin BY, Zhang Y, Zhao JH, Wang YB, Zhang TY, Yuan Q, Zhang J, Xia NS. A cell-penetrating whole molecule antibody targeting intracellular HBx suppresses hepatitis B virus via TRIM21-dependent pathway. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:549-562. [PMID: 29290826 PMCID: PMC5743566 DOI: 10.7150/thno.20047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) mostly targeting extracellular or cell surface molecules have been widely used in the treatment of various diseases. However, mAbs cannot pass through the cell membrane as efficiently as small compounds, thus limiting their use against intracellular targets. Methods to shuttle antibodies into living cells may largely expand research and application in areas based on mAbs. Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) is an important intracellular multi-functional viral protein in the life cycle of hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBx plays essential roles in virus infection and replication and is strongly associated with HBV-related carcinogenesis. Methods: In this study, we developed a cell-penetrating whole molecule antibody targeting HBx (9D11-Tat) by the fusion of a cell penetrating peptide (CPP) on the C-terminus of the heavy chain of a potent mAb specific to HBx (9D11). The anti-HBV effect and mechanism of 9D11-Tat were investigated in cell and mouse models mimicking chronic HBV infection. Results: Our results demonstrated that the recombinant 9D11-Tat antibody could efficiently internalize into living cells and significantly suppress viral transcription, replication, and protein production both in vitro and in vivo. Further analyses suggested the internalized 9D11-Tat antibody could greatly reduce intracellular HBx via Fc binding receptor TRIM21-mediated protein degradation. This process simultaneously stimulated the activations of NF-κB, AP-1, and IFN-β, which promoted an antiviral state of the host cell. Conclusion: In summary, our study offers a new approach to target intracellular pathogenesis-related protein by engineered cell-penetrating mAb expanding their potential for therapeutic applications. Moreover, the 9D11-Tat antibody may provide a novel therapeutic agent against human chronic HBV infection.
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17
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C-terminal truncated hepatitis B virus X protein regulates tumorigenicity, self-renewal and drug resistance via STAT3/Nanog signaling pathway. Oncotarget 2017; 8:23507-23516. [PMID: 28186991 PMCID: PMC5410322 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major risk factor of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Random integration of HBV DNA into the host genome is frequent in HCC leading to truncation of the HBV DNA, particularly at the C-terminal end of the HBV X protein (HBx). C-terminally truncated HBx (HBx-ΔC) has been implicated in playing a pro-oncogenic role in hepatocarcinogenesis. However, the mechanism whereby HBx-ΔC1 contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the functional role of HBx-ΔC1 in regulating liver cancer stem cell (CSC) properties. Using Tet-on inducible system, we found that HBx-ΔC1 enhanced CSC properties including self-renewal, tumorigenicity, chemoresistance, migration and expression of liver CSC markers, when compared with the full-length HBx counterpart and vector control. Interestingly, HBx-ΔC1 conferred resistance in HCC cells towards sorafenib treatment through suppression of apoptotic cascade. In addition, HBx-ΔC1 upregulated a panel of stemness genes, in which Nanog was found to be among the most significant one in both trasnfected cell lines. Consistently, Nanog was upregulated in human HCC samples which had HBx-ΔC1 expression. Furthermore, the induction of CSC properties by HBx-ΔC1 was via the Stat3/Nanog pathway, as administration of Stat3 inhibitor abolished the HBx-ΔC1-induced self-renewing capacity. In conclusion, our data suggest that HBx-ΔC1 enhances liver CSCs properties through Stat3/Nanog cascade, and provide a new insight for the therapeutic intervention for HBV-related HCC.
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18
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Dandri M, Petersen J. Animal models of HBV infection. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2017; 31:273-279. [PMID: 28774409 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2017.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms determining hepatitis B virus (HBV) persistence and pathogenesis are not fully elucidated, but appear to be multi-factorial. Current medication to repress viral replication is available; however, the unique replication strategies employed by HBV enable the virus to persist within the infected hepatocytes. Consequently, cure is rarely achieved. Progresses in HBV research and preclinical testing of antiviral agents have been limited by the narrow species- and tissue-tropism of the virus, the paucity of infection models available and the restrictions imposed by the use of chimpanzees, the only animals fully susceptible to HBV infection. Mice are not HBV permissive but major efforts have focused on the development of mouse models of HBV replication and infection, such as the generation of humanized mice. By presenting the different animal models available, this review will highlight the most important and clinically relevant findings that have been retrieved from the respective systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Dandri
- I. Department of Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel Site, Germany.
| | - Joerg Petersen
- IFI Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine at Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
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19
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USP16 Downregulation by Carboxyl-terminal Truncated HBx Promotes the Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33039. [PMID: 27633997 PMCID: PMC5025738 DOI: 10.1038/srep33039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major factor that contributes to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV X protein (HBx) has been shown to accelerate HCC progression by promoting tumour growth and metastasis. In the clinic, carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx (Ct-HBx) proteins are frequently present in HCC tumour tissues, but not in non-tumorous tissues. In this study, we analysed deubiquitinase expression profiles in cells with or without ectopic expression of the Ct-HBx proteins and observed that the expression of ubiquitin specific peptidase 16 (USP16) was substantially inhibited by Ct-HBx proteins. Liver tumour cells with forced down-regulation of USP16 exhibited increased capabilities for colony formation and tumour growth in vivo. In addition, USP16 inhibition promoted stem-like properties in tumour cells, as evidenced by their spheroid formation and chemo-responsiveness. Furthermore, ectopic expression of USP16 in tumour cells significantly abrogated the tumour promoting activities of the Ct-HBx proteins (HBxΔ35), leading to decreased tumour cell viability and tumour growth. In human HCCs, USP16 was frequently downregulated, and the decreased expression of USP16 was correlated with high tumour stages and poor differentiation status. Taken together, our study suggests that USP16 downregulation is a critical event in Ct-HBx-mediated promotion of HCC tumorigenicity and malignancy.
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20
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Experimental in vitro and in vivo models for the study of human hepatitis B virus infection. J Hepatol 2016; 64:S17-S31. [PMID: 27084033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects an estimate of 240 million people worldwide despite the availability of a preventive vaccine. Medication to repress viral replication is available but a cure is rarely achieved. The narrow species and tissue tropism of the virus and the lack of reliable in vitro models and laboratory animals susceptible to HBV infection, have limited research progress in the past. As a result, several aspects of the HBV life cycle as well as the network of virus host interactions occurring during the infection are not yet understood. Only recently, the identification of the functional cellular receptor enabling HBV entry has opened new possibilities to establish innovative infection systems. Regarding the in vivo models of HBV infection, the classical reference was the chimpanzee. However, because of the strongly restricted use of great apes for HBV research, major efforts have focused on the development of mouse models of HBV replication and infection such as the generation of humanized mice. This review summarizes the animal and cell culture based models currently available for the study of HBV biology. We will discuss the benefits and caveats of each model and present a selection of the most important findings that have been retrieved from the respective systems.
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21
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Gong SJ, Feng XJ, Song WH, Chen JM, Wang SM, Xing DJ, Zhu MH, Zhang SH, Xu AM. Upregulation of PP2Ac predicts poor prognosis and contributes to aggressiveness in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Biol Ther 2015; 17:151-62. [PMID: 26618405 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2015.1121345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a heterotrimeric protein phosphatase consisting of a 36-kD catalytic C subunit (PP2Ac). This study aimed to explore the prognostic and biological significance of PP2Ac in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). High PP2Ac expression was significantly (P < 0.01) associated with serum hepatitis B surface antigen positivity, serum hepatitis B e antigen positivity, liver cirrhosis, moderate to poor differentiation grade, advanced disease stage, intrahepatic metastasis, and early recurrence in HCC. Multivariate analysis revealed PP2Ac as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival. Enforced expression of hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) and its carboxyl-terminal truncated isoform induced PP2Ac expression in HCC cells. Co-immunoprecipitation assay revealed a direct interaction between PP2Ac and HBx. Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of PP2Ac significantly inhibited in vitro cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion and reduced tumor growth in an xenograft mouse model. In contrast, overexpression of PP2Ac promoted HCC cell proliferation, colony formation, and tumorigenesis. Additionally, silencing of PP2Ac impaired the growth-promoting effects on HepG2 HCC cells elicited by overexpression of carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx. Gene expression profiling analysis showed that PP2Ac downregulation modulated the expression of numerous genes involved in cell cycle and apoptosis regulation. Collectively, PP2Ac upregulation has a poor prognostic impact on the overall survival of HCC patients and contributes to the aggressiveness of HCC. PP2Ac may represent a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Juan Gong
- a Department of Interventional oncology , Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiao-Jun Feng
- b Department of Pathology , Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Wei-Hua Song
- a Department of Interventional oncology , Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Jian-Ming Chen
- a Department of Interventional oncology , Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Shou-Mei Wang
- b Department of Pathology , Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Dong-Juan Xing
- a Department of Interventional oncology , Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Ming-Hua Zhu
- c Department of Pathology , Changhai Hospital and Institute of Liver Diseases, Second Military Medical University , Shanghai , China
| | - Shu-Hui Zhang
- b Department of Pathology , Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Ai-Min Xu
- a Department of Interventional oncology , Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
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22
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Niller HH, Ay E, Banati F, Demcsák A, Takacs M, Minarovits J. Wild type HBx and truncated HBx: Pleiotropic regulators driving sequential genetic and epigenetic steps of hepatocarcinogenesis and progression of HBV-associated neoplasms. Rev Med Virol 2015; 26:57-73. [PMID: 26593760 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the causative agents of hepatocellular carcinoma. The molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis are complex. One of the host factors involved is apparently the long-lasting inflammatory reaction which accompanies chronic HBV infection. Although HBV lacks a typical viral oncogene, the HBx gene encoding a pleiotropic regulatory protein emerged as a major player in liver carcinogenesis. Here we review the tumorigenic functions of HBx with an emphasis on wild type and truncated HBx variants, and their role in the transcriptional dysregulation and epigenetic reprogramming of the host cell genome. We suggest that HBx acquired by the HBV genome during evolution acts like a cellular proto-onc gene that is activated by deletion during hepatocarcinogenesis. The resulting viral oncogene (v-onc gene) codes for a truncated HBx protein that facilitates tumor progression. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Helmut Niller
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Eva Ay
- Department of Retrovirology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Banati
- RT-Europe Nonprofit Research Center, Mosonmagyarovar, Hungary
| | - Anett Demcsák
- University of Szeged, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Maria Takacs
- Division of Virology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Janos Minarovits
- University of Szeged, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Szeged, Hungary
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