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Catalano T, Selvaggi F, Esposito DL, Cotellese R, Aceto GM. Infectious Agents Induce Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Deregulation in Primary Liver Cancers. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1632. [PMID: 37512809 PMCID: PMC10386003 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Interaction between infectious agents and liver tissue, as well as repeated and extreme biological events beyond adaptive capacities, may result in pathological conditions predisposing people to development of primary liver cancers (PLCs). In adults, PLCs mainly comprise hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Various infectious agents in the hepatic microenvironment can destabilize normal liver cell functions by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway components. Among them, hepatotropic viruses B, C, and D are involved in Wnt/β-catenin signaling dysregulation. Other microbial agents, including oncogenic viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human papilloma virus (HPV), bacteria, e.g., Mycoplasma hyorhinis and Salmonella Typhi, the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, the fungus Aspergillus flavus, and liver flukes such as Clonorchissinensis or Opisthorchis viverrini, may induce malignant transformation in hepatocytes or in target cells of the biliary tract through aberrant Wnt signaling activation. This review focuses on new insights into infectious agents implicated in the deregulation of Wnt signaling and PLC development. Since the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a driver of cancer following viral and bacterial infections, molecules inhibiting the complex axis of Wnt signaling could represent novel therapeutic approaches in PLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federico Selvaggi
- Unit of General Surgery, ASL2 Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti, Ospedale Clinicizzato SS Annunziata, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Diana Liberata Esposito
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberto Cotellese
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Villa Serena Foundation for Research, 65013 Città Sant'Angelo, Italy
| | - Gitana Maria Aceto
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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2
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Hepatitis B Virus-Encoded HBsAg Contributes to Hepatocarcinogenesis by Inducing the Oncogenic Long Noncoding RNA LINC00665 through the NF-κB Pathway. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0273121. [PMID: 35993712 PMCID: PMC9603668 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02731-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical and in vivo studies have demonstrated a role for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-encoded HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) in HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role of HBsAg in regulating long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) involved in HCC progression. Our analysis of microarray data sets identified LINC00665 as an HBsAg-regulated lncRNA. Furthermore, LINC00665 is upregulated in liver samples from HBV-infected patients as well as in HCC, specifically in HBV-related HCC liver samples. These findings were supported by our in vitro data demonstrating that HBsAg, as well as HBV, positively regulates LINC00665 in multiple HBV cell culture models. Next, we evaluated the oncogenic potential of LINC00665 by its overexpression and CRISPR interference (CRISPRi)-based knockdown in various cell-based assays. LINC00665 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and colony formation but inhibited cell apoptosis in vitro. We then identified the underlying mechanism of HBsAg-mediated regulation of LINC00665. We used immunofluorescence assays to show that HBsAg enhanced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB factors in HepG2 cells, confirming that HBsAg activates NF-κB. Inhibition of NF-κB signaling nullified HBsAg-mediated LINC00665 upregulation, suggesting that HBsAg acts through NF-κB to regulate LINC00665. Furthermore, the LINC00665 promoter contains NF-κB binding sites, and their disruption abrogated HBsAg-induced LINC00665 upregulation. Finally, HBsAg facilitated the enrichment of the NF-κB factors NF-κB1, RelA, and c-Rel in the LINC00665 promoter. Taken together, this work shows that HBsAg can drive hepatocarcinogenesis by upregulating oncogenic LINC000665 through the NF-κB pathway, thereby identifying a novel mechanism in HBV-related HCC. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Numerous reports indicate an oncogenic role for HBV-encoded HBsAg; however, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we studied the role of HBsAg in regulating lncRNAs involved in hepatocarcinogenesis. We demonstrate that HBsAg, as well as HBV, positively regulates oncogenic lncRNA LINC00665. The clinical significance of this lncRNA is highlighted by our observation that LINC00665 is upregulated in liver samples during HBV infection and HBV-related HCC. Furthermore, we show LINC00665 can drive hepatocarcinogenesis by promoting cell proliferation, colony formation, and cell migration and inhibiting apoptosis. Taken together, this work identified LINC00665 as a novel gene through which HBsAg can drive hepatocarcinogenesis. Finally, we show that HBsAg enhances LINC00665 levels in hepatocytes by activating the NF-κB pathway, thereby identifying a novel mechanism by which HBV may contribute to HCC.
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3
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Rizzo A, Brandi G. Biochemical predictors of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 27:100328. [PMID: 33549983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the most commonly diagnosed liver cancer worldwide, and the overall survival of patients with unresectable disease is poor. In the last five years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment scenario of several hematological and solid tumors, and these agents have been actively explored in unresectable HCC. Firstly, promising findings of phase I and II clinical studies reporting durable responses and a tolerable safety profile have led to the assessment of ICIs as single agents in phase III clinical studies; however, the latter have provided controversial results, and the activity of ICI monotherapy seems limited to a small subgroup of patients. Conversely, the IMbrave150 trial recently showed that, among patients with previously untreated unresectable HCC, treatment with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab resulted in significantly longer overall survival and progression-free survival compared to sorafenib monotherapy. In addition, the activity of several other ICIs is under investigation, as combination immunotherapy as well as combinations of immunotherapy with antiangiogenic agents. Nonetheless, there are currently no validated predictive biomarkers able to guide treatment choice in this setting, where the identification of specific predictors of response to ICIs represents a major challenge. In this review, we aim to provide a critical overview of recent evidence on biochemical predictors of response to ICIs in patients with unresectable HCC, especially focusing on PD-L1, TMB, MSI, and other emerging biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rizzo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, via Albertoni, 15 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Brandi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, via Albertoni, 15 Bologna, Italy
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4
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He P, Wang C, Wang Y, Wang C, Zhou C, Cao D, Li J, Bushnell DA, Li Q, Kornberg RD, Xie W, Wang Z. A Novel AKR1C3 Specific Prodrug TH3424 With Potent Antitumor Activity in Liver Cancer. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021; 110:229-237. [PMID: 33483974 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of AKR1C3, an aldo-keto reductase, was recently discovered in liver cancers. In this study, an inverse correlation between AKR1C3 expression and survival of patients with liver cancer was observed. AKR1C3 inhibitors, however, failed to suppress liver cancer cell growth. The prodrug TH3424, which releases a DNA alkylating reagent upon reduction by AKR1C3, was developed to target tumors with overexpression of AKR1C3. TH3424 showed specific killing of liver cancer cells with AKR1C3 overexpression both in vitro and in vivo. In patient-derived mouse xenograft models, TH3424 at doses as low as 1.5 mg/kg eliminated liver tumors with no apparent toxicity. Therefore, TH3424 is a promising drug candidate for liver cancer and other types of cancers overexpressing AKR1C3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunnian Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanlan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caiyan Wang
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changhua Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Donglin Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong No. 2 Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - David A Bushnell
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Qing Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Roger D Kornberg
- Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Wei Xie
- Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Centre for Cellular & Structural Biology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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5
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Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A 2021 Update. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102859. [PMID: 33020428 PMCID: PMC7600093 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of one of the most frequent liver cancers and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Current treatment options such as surgery, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, liver transplantation, and radiofrequency ablation will benefit only a very small percentage of patients. Immunotherapy is a novel treatment approach representing an effective and promising option against several types of cancer. The aim of our study is to present the currently ongoing clinical trials and to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapy in HCC. In this paper, we demonstrate that combination of different immunotherapies or immunotherapy with other modalities results in better overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) compared to single immunotherapy agent. Another objective of this paper is to demonstrate and highlight the importance of tumor microenvironment as a predictive and prognostic marker and its clinical implications in immunotherapy response.
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6
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Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Liver Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11070926. [PMID: 31269694 PMCID: PMC6679127 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11070926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is among the leading global healthcare issues associated with high morbidity and mortality. Liver cancer consists of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), hepatoblastoma (HB), and several other rare tumors. Progression has been witnessed in understanding the interactions between etiological as well as environmental factors and the host in the development of liver cancers. However, the pathogenesis remains poorly understood, hampering the design of rational strategies aiding in preventing liver cancers. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in the initiation and progression of HCC, CCA, and HB. Targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling potentiates a novel avenue for liver cancer treatment, which may benefit from the development of numerous small-molecule inhibitors and biologic agents in this field. In this review, we discuss the interaction between various etiological factors and components of Wnt/β-catenin signaling early in the precancerous lesion and the acquired mechanisms to further enhance Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote robust cancer formation at later stages. Additionally, we shed light on current relevant inhibitors tested in liver cancers and provide future perspectives for preclinical and clinical liver cancer studies.
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7
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Hepatitis B virus promotes proliferation and metastasis in male Chinese hepatocellular carcinoma patients through the LEF-1/miR-371a-5p/SRCIN1/pleiotrophin/Slug pathway. Exp Cell Res 2018; 370:174-188. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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8
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Xiao SR, Xu GD, Wei WJ, Peng B, Deng YB. Antiviral effects of hepatitis B virus S gene-specific anti-gene locked nucleic acid in transgenic mice. World J Clin Cases 2018; 6:183-191. [PMID: 30148146 PMCID: PMC6107528 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v6.i8.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the antiviral effects of hepatitis B virus (HBV) S gene-specific anti-gene locked nucleic acid (LNA) in transgenic mice.
METHODS Thirty HBV transgenic mice were acclimatized to laboratory conditions and positive for serum HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV DNA, were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 7), including negative control (blank control, unrelated sequence control), positive control (lamivudine, anti-sense-LNA), and anti-gene-LNA experimental group. LNA was injected into transgenic mice by tail vein while lamivudine was administered by gavage. Serum HBV DNA and HBsAg levels were determined by fluorescence-based PCR and enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay, respectively. HBV S gene expression amounts were assessed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Positive rates of HBsAg in liver cells were evaluated immunohistochemistry.
RESULTS Average rate reductions of HBsAg after treatment on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th days were 32.34%, 45.96%, and 59.15%, respectively. The inhibitory effect of anti-gene-LNA on serum HBsAg peaked on day 7, with statistically significant differences compared with pre-treatment (0.96 ± 0.18 vs 2.35 ± 0.33, P < 0.05) and control values (P < 0.05 for all). Average reduction rates of HBV DNA on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th days were 38.55%, 50.95%, and 62.26%, respectively. This inhibitory effect peaked on the 7th day after treatment with anti-gene-LNA, with statistically significant differences compared with pre-treatment (4.17 ± 1.29 vs 11.05 ± 1.25, P < 0.05) and control values (P < 0.05 for all). The mRNA levels of the HBV S gene (P < 0.05 for all) and rates of HBsAg positive liver cells (P < 0.05 for all) were significantly reduced compared with the control groups. Liver and kidney function, and histology showed no abnormalities.
CONCLUSION Anti-gene-LNA targeting the S gene of HBV displays strong inhibitory effects on HBV in transgenic mice, providing theoretical and experimental bases for gene therapy in HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Rong Xiao
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Gui-Dan Xu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Wu-Jun Wei
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Bin Peng
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Yi-Bin Deng
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Disease Center, Guangxi Clinic Medicine Research, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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9
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Epstein-Barr virus stably confers an invasive phenotype to epithelial cells through reprogramming of the WNT pathway. Oncotarget 2018. [PMID: 29535816 PMCID: PMC5828208 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated carcinomas, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), exhibit an undifferentiated and metastatic phenotype. To determine viral contributions involved in the invasive phenotype of EBV-associated carcinomas, EBV-infected human telomerase-immortalized normal oral keratinocytes (NOK) were investigated. EBV-infected NOK were previously shown to undergo epigenetic reprogramming involving CpG island hypermethylation and delayed responsiveness to differentiation. Here, we show that EBV-infected NOK acquired an invasive phenotype that was epigenetically retained after viral loss. The transcription factor lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (LEF1) and the secreted ligand WNT5A, expressed in NPC, were increased in EBV-infected NOK with sustained expression for more than 20 passages after viral loss. Increased LEF1 levels involved four LEF1 variants, and EBV-infected NOK showed a lack of responsiveness to β-catenin activation. Although forced expression of WNT5A and LEF1 enhanced the invasiveness of parental NOK, LEF1 knockdown reversed the invasive phenotype of EBV-infected NOK in the presence of WNT5A. Viral reprogramming of LEF1 and WNT5A was observed several passages after EBV infection, suggesting that LEF1 and WNT5A may provide a selective advantage to virally-infected cells. Our findings suggest that EBV epigenetically reprogrammed epithelial cells with features of basal, wound healing keratinocytes, with LEF1 contributing to the metastatic phenotype of EBV-associated carcinomas.
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10
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Daud M, Rana MA, Husnain T, Ijaz B. Modulation of Wnt signaling pathway by hepatitis B virus. Arch Virol 2017; 162:2937-2947. [PMID: 28685286 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-017-3462-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has a global distribution and is one of the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. The precise mechanism of pathogenicity of HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not yet fully understood. Viral-related proteins are known to take control of several cellular pathways like Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, Raf/MAPK and ROS for the virus's own replication. This affects cellular persistence, multiplication, migration, alteration and genomic instability. The Wnt/FZD/β-catenin signaling pathway plays a significant role in the pathology and physiology of the liver and has been identified as a main factor in HCC development. The role of β-catenin is linked mainly to the canonical pathway of the signaling system. Progression of liver diseases is known to be accompanied by disturbances in β-catenin expression (mainly overexpression), with its cytoplasmic or nuclear translocation. In recent years, studies have documented that the HBV X protein and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) can act as pathogenic factors that are involved in the modulation and induction of canonical Wnt signaling pathway. In the present review we explore the interaction of HBV genome products with components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that results in the enhancement of the pathway and leads to hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Daud
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan
| | | | - Tayyab Husnain
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Ijaz
- Applied and Functional Genomics Lab, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, 87-West Canal Road, Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, 53700, Pakistan.
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11
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Osiowy C, Kowalec K, Giles E. Discordant diagnostic results due to a hepatitis B virus T123A HBsAg mutant. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 85:328-333. [DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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12
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van Zuylen WJ, Rawlinson WD, Ford CE. The Wnt pathway: a key network in cell signalling dysregulated by viruses. Rev Med Virol 2016; 26:340-55. [PMID: 27273590 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Viruses are obligate parasites dependent on host cells for survival. Viral infection of a cell activates a panel of pattern recognition receptors that mediate antiviral host responses to inhibit viral replication and dissemination. Viruses have evolved mechanisms to evade and subvert this antiviral host response, including encoding proteins that hijack, mimic and/or manipulate cellular processes such as the cell cycle, DNA damage repair, cellular metabolism and the host immune response. Currently, there is an increasing interest whether viral modulation of these cellular processes, including the cell cycle, contributes to cancer development. One cellular pathway related to cell cycle signalling is the Wnt pathway. This review focuses on the modulation of this pathway by human viruses, known to cause (or associated with) cancer development. The main mechanisms where viruses interact with the Wnt pathway appear to be through (i) epigenetic modification of Wnt genes; (ii) cellular or viral miRNAs targeting Wnt genes; (iii) altering specific Wnt pathway members, often leading to (iv) nuclear translocation of β-catenin and activation of Wnt signalling. Given that diverse viruses affect this signalling pathway, modulating Wnt signalling could be a generalised critical process for the initiation or maintenance of viral pathogenesis, with resultant dysregulation contributing to virus-induced cancers. Further study of this virus-host interaction may identify options for targeted therapy against Wnt signalling molecules as a means to reduce virus-induced pathogenesis and the downstream consequences of infection. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy J van Zuylen
- Serology and Virology Division, SEALS Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - William D Rawlinson
- Serology and Virology Division, SEALS Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Caroline E Ford
- Metastasis Research Group, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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13
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Yang Y, Gao J, Li HL, Zheng W, Yang G, Zhang W, Ma X, Tan YT, Rothman N, Gao YT, Chow WH, Shu XO, Xiang YB. Dose-response association between hepatitis B surface antigen levels and liver cancer risk in Chinese men and women. Int J Cancer 2016; 139:355-62. [PMID: 26990915 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.30086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We aimed at evaluating the risk of liver cancer in different levels of HBsAg among Chinese men and women. We carried out a nested case-control study including 363 cases and 3,511 controls in two population-based cohorts in Shanghai. Plasma samples collected at enrollment were quantified for HBsAg levels using the Architect QT assay. Conditional logistic regression was performed to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for liver cancer, with adjustment for potential confounders. HBsAg was detected in 6.29% of control subjects overall (7.02% in men and 4.98% in women). HBsAg levels were positively associated with liver cancer risk in a dose-response manner (ptrend < 0.001). Such association showed a significant gender disparity. With increasing levels of HBsAg, liver cancer risks rose more steeply in men than in women. In men, the adjusted ORs increased from 7.27 (95% CI: 3.49-15.15) at the lowest detectable level of HBsAg (5-9 IU/ml) to 7.16 (95% CI: 3.21-15.96), 34.30 (95% CI: 16.94-69.44), and 47.33 (95% CI: 23.50-95.34) at the highest level of HBsAg (≥1,000 IU/ml) compared to those negative for HBsAg. The corresponding ORs were much lower for women, from 1.37 (95% CI: 0.25-7.47), 3.81 (95% CI: 1.09-13.28), 7.36 (95% CI: 2.41-22.46) and 16.86 (95% CI: 7.24-39.27), respectively. HBsAg quantification has potential to distinguish individuals at different risks of liver cancer. Men with the lowest detectable level of HBsAg should still pay attention to their liver cancer risks, but those with a higher level may be given a higher priority in future liver cancer surveillance program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Gao
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Lan Li
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Gong Yang
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Wei Zhang
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Ting Tan
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Nathaniel Rothman
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Yu-Tang Gao
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wong-Ho Chow
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Department of Epidemiology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Xiao-Ou Shu
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Yong-Bing Xiang
- SKLORG, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Zhang T, Xie N, He W, Liu R, Lei Y, Chen Y, Tang H, Liu B, Huang C, Wei Y. An integrated proteomics and bioinformatics analyses of hepatitis B virus X interacting proteins and identification of a novel interactor apoA-I. J Proteomics 2013; 84:92-105. [PMID: 23568022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2013.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2013] [Revised: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED HBx is well-known to be a multifunctional protein encoded by HBV and its biological functions are mainly dependent on pleiotropic protein-protein interactions (PPIs); however, the global mapping of HBx-interactome has not been established so far. Thus, in this study, we have identified 127 HBx-interacting proteins by a profound GST pull-down assay coupled with mass spectrometry, and constructed an HBx-interactome network and core apoA-I pathways with a series of bioinformatics approaches. One of the identified HBx-binding partners is apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), which has a specific role in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. The HBx-apoA-I protein interaction was confirmed by both GST pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation. The ectopic overexpression of apoA-I can lead to a significant inhibition on HBV secretion concomitant with the reduction of cellular cholesterol level. In addition, HBV can modulate the function of apoA-I through HBx which might interact with the 44-189 residues of apoA-I and result in dysfunction of apoA-I such as decreased self-association ability, increased carbonyl level and impaired lipid-binding ability. Our results demonstrate an integrated physical association of HBx and host proteins, especially a novel interactor apoA-I that may influence the HBV secretion, which would shed new light on exploring the complicated mechanisms of HBV manipulation on host cellular functions. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE HBx is well-known to be a multifunctional protein encoded by HBV and its biological functions are mainly dependent on pleiotropic protein-protein interactions. Although a series of HBx-interacting proteins have been identified, a global characterization of HBx interactome has not been reported. In this study, we have identified a total of 127 HBx-interacting proteins by a profound GST pull-down assay coupled with mass spectrometry, and constructed an HBx-interactome network with a series of bioinformatics approaches. Our results demonstrate an integrated physical association of HBx and host proteins which may help us explore the complicated mechanisms of HBV manipulation on host cellular functions. In addition, we validated one of the identified HBx-binding partners, apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), which played a significant inhibitory effect on HBV secretion, indicating a crucial role of the HBx-apoA-I axis in HBV life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
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Fang C, Zhao C, Liu X, Yang P, Lu H. Protein alteration of HepG2.2.15 cells induced by iron overload. Proteomics 2012; 12:1378-90. [PMID: 22589187 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201100335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B can progress into hepatocellular carcinoma. Body irons may interfere with the clearance of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and contribute to genesis of tumor. To investigate the role of iron played in HBV-related pathogenesis, here we studied the effect of iron with different concentrations and valence states on growth of HepG2.2.15 cells and secretion of virus proteins. A strong tolerance of HepG2.2.15 cells to iron challenge was found. The concentration of hepatitis B surface antigen in cell culture medium was decreased after iron stimulation. Lower concentrations of iron facilitated hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) secretion. Fe(2+) appeared more effective on HBeAg secretion than Fe(3+) did. In parallel, the differential protein profiles in HepG2.2.15 cells were studied by iTRAQ and LC-MS/MS. The differentially expressed proteins were mainly involved in stress response, signal transduction, apoptosis, etc. Four proteins (14-3-3 β/α, VCP, migration inhibitory factor, and Nup153) were verified by Western-blotting and found to be consistent with the iTRAQ data. Interestingly, nuclear import of Nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and its activity were found to be affected by the decreased Nup153 in iron stimulated HepG2.2.15 cells. The results may indicate possible molecular mechanism how the synergism of HBV and iron stimulation damages host liver cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiyun Fang
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, P. R. China
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Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen interacts with and promotes cyclophilin a secretion: possible link to pathogenesis of HBV infection. J Virol 2010; 84:3373-81. [PMID: 20089655 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02555-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclophilin A (CypA), predominantly located intracellularly, is a multifunctional protein. We previously reported decreased CypA levels in hepatocytes of transgenic mice expressing hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg). In this study, we found that expression of HBV small surface protein (SHBs) in human hepatoma cell lines specifically triggered CypA secretion, whereas SHBs added extracellularly to culture medium did not. Moreover, CypA secretion was not promoted by the expression of a secretion deficient SHBs mutant, suggesting a close association between secretion of CypA and SHBs. Interaction between CypA and SHBs was observed by using coimmunoprecipitation and glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays. Hydrodynamic injection of the SHBs expression construct into C57BL/6J mice resulted in increased serum CypA levels and ALT/AST levels, as well as the infiltration of inflammatory cells surrounding SHBs-positive hepatocytes. The inflammatory response and serum ALT/AST level were reduced when the chemotactic effect of CypA was inhibited by cyclosporine and anti-CD147 antibody. Furthermore, higher serum CypA levels were detected in chronic hepatitis B patients than in healthy individuals. In HBV patients who had received liver transplantation, serum CypA levels declined dramatically after the loss of HBsAg as a consequence of liver transplantation. Taken together, these results indicate that expression and secretion of SHBs can promote CypA secretion, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of HBV infection.
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Zhao C, Zhang W, Tian X, Fang C, Lu H, Yuan Z, Yang P, Wen Y. Proteomic analysis of cell lines expressing small hepatitis B surface antigen revealed decreased glucose-regulated protein 78âkDa expression in association with higher susceptibility to apoptosis. J Med Virol 2010; 82:14-22. [PMID: 19950238 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.21654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Tian X, Li J, Ma ZM, Zhao C, Wan DF, Wen YM. Role of hepatitis B surface antigen in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma: regulation of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2009; 28:58. [PMID: 19402906 PMCID: PMC2678988 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-28-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background There are around 350 million of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers worldwide, and among them, high risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been identified by epidemiological studies. To date, the molecular role of HBsAg in HCC development has not been fully studied. We have previously reported that in cell cultures, HBsAg up-regulated the expression of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (LEF-1), a key component of the Wnt pathway. In this study we aimed to study this effect of HBsAg on LEF-1 in the development of HCC. Methods Expression of HBsAg, LEF-1 and its downstream effector genes were compared among 30 HCCs, their peritumor tissue counterparts and 9 normal control liver tissues by quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, immunohistochemical staining studies on HBsAg and LEF-1 expression were conducted among these samples. Results The expression of LEF-1 was compared between 13 HBsAg positive HCC tissues and 17 HBsAg negative HCC tissues. Simultaneous detection of LEF-1 and HBsAg was observed in HBsAg positive HCC tissues and, additionally, the simultaneous detection of HBsAg and LEF-1 was more pronounced in peritumor tissues, compared to that in the tumor tissues. The distribution of cellular LEF-1 in peritumor tissues was predominantly in the cytoplasm; while LEF-1 in the tumor tissues was located either exclusively in the nucleus or both in the nucleus and cytoplasm. By real-time PCR, the expression levels of LEF-1 downstream effector genes cyclin D1 and c-myc were higher in peritumor cells compared to that of the tumor cells. However, a 38 kDa truncated isoform of LEF-1, rather than the 55 kDa wild-type LEF-1, was significantly elevated in the HBsAg positive tumor cells. Conclusion Data indicate that deregulation of the Wnt pathway by HBsAg occurred in HBV-associated HCCs, but was more pronounced in the peritumor cells. It is speculated that HBsAg could stimulate proliferation and functional modification of hepatocytes via LEF-1 through the Wnt pathway at the pre-malignant stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Tian
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.
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