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Kovacs D, Flori E, Bastonini E, Mosca S, Migliano E, Cota C, Zaccarini M, Briganti S, Cardinali G. Targeting Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Counteracts the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Keratinocyte-Derived Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17379. [PMID: 38139209 PMCID: PMC10743516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system regulates physiological processes, and the modulation of endogenous endocannabinoid (eCB) levels is an attractive tool to contrast the development of pathological skin conditions including cancers. Inhibiting FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), the degradation enzyme of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) leads to the increase in AEA levels, thus enhancing its biological effects. Here, we evaluated the anticancer property of the FAAH inhibitor URB597, investigating its potential to counteract epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process crucially involved in tumor progression. The effects of the compound were determined in primary human keratinocytes, ex vivo skin explants, and the squamous carcinoma cell line A431. Our results demonstrate that URB597 is able to hinder the EMT process by downregulating mesenchymal markers and reducing migratory potential. These effects are associated with the dampening of the AKT/STAT3 signal pathways and reduced release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and tumorigenic lipid species. The ability of URB597 to contrast the EMT process provides insight into effective approaches that may also include the use of FAAH inhibitors for the treatment of skin cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Kovacs
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Enrica Flori
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Emanuela Bastonini
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Sarah Mosca
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Emilia Migliano
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carlo Cota
- Genetic Research, Molecular Biology and Dermatopathology Unit, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Marco Zaccarini
- Genetic Research, Molecular Biology and Dermatopathology Unit, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (C.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Stefania Briganti
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Giorgia Cardinali
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, 00144 Rome, Italy; (D.K.); (E.F.); (E.B.); (S.M.); (S.B.)
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2
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Lougiakis N, Sakalis N, Georgiou M, Marakos P, Pouli N, Skaltsounis AL, Mavrogonatou E, Pratsinis H, Kletsas D. Synthesis, cytotoxic activity evaluation and mechanistic investigation of novel 3,7-diarylsubstituted 6-azaindoles. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115804. [PMID: 37729693 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
A number of new disubstituted 6-azaindoles have been designed and synthesized bearing a crucial structural modification in respect to an analogous antiproliferative hit compound. The synthesis was performed using 2-amino-3-nitro-4-picoline, that was suitably modified and converted to 7-chloro-3-iodo-6-azaindole and this central scaffold was used for successive Suzuki-type couplings, to result in the target compounds. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activity was performed against four human cancer cell lines, as well as a normal human fibroblast strain. Certain compounds possessed strong anticancer activity without affecting normal cells. At subcytotoxic concentrations for cancer cells, these compounds displayed an anti-proliferative effect by arresting the cells at the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, which could be associated with the observed decrease in the phosphorylation levels of the MEK1- ERK1/2 pathway and/or the activation of the p53-p21WAF1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Lougiakis
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece.
| | - Nikolaos Sakalis
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Georgiou
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Marakos
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Nicole Pouli
- Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios-Leandros Skaltsounis
- Division of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Mavrogonatou
- Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Ageing, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, NCSR ''Demokritos'', 15310, Athens, Greece
| | - Harris Pratsinis
- Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Ageing, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, NCSR ''Demokritos'', 15310, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Kletsas
- Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Ageing, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, NCSR ''Demokritos'', 15310, Athens, Greece
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3
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Galambus J, Tsai KY. Molecular and immune targets in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:38-51. [PMID: 36000298 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer and often confers a good prognosis. Though surgery is the gold standard of treatment, unresectable or metastatic disease can necessitate systemic therapy. Of systemic agents, there is increasing interest in the use of immunotherapies and targeted therapy. Further study into the driver mutations in cSCC has identified opportunities for targeted therapy. In this review, we discuss both current and investigational immune and molecular targets of therapy for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Galambus
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Kenneth Y Tsai
- Department of Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Donald A. Adam Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center of Excellence, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
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4
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Vazquez N, Lopez A, Cuello V, Persans M, Schuenzel E, Innis-Whitehouse W, Keniry M. NVP-BEZ235 or JAKi Treatment leads to decreased survival of examined GBM and BBC cells. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 27:100340. [PMID: 33636591 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells almost universally harbor constitutively active Phosphatidylinositol-3 Kinase (PI3K) Pathway activity via mutation of key signaling components and/or epigenetic mechanisms. Scores of PI3K Pathway inhibitors are currently under investigation as putative chemotherapeutics. However, feedback and stem cell mechanisms induced by PI3K Pathway inhibition can lead to reduced treatment efficacy. To address therapeutic barriers, we examined whether JAKi would reduce stem gene expression in a setting of PI3K Pathway inhibition in order to improve treatment efficacy. We targeted the PI3K Pathway with NVP-BEZ235 (dual PI3K and mTOR inhibitor) in combination with the Janus Kinase inhibitor JAKi in glioblastoma (GBM) and basal-like breast cancer (BBC) cell lines. We examined growth, gene expression, and apoptosis in cells treated with NVP-BEZ235 and/or JAKi. Growth and recovery assays showed no significant impact of dual treatment with NVP-BEZ235/JAKi compared to NVP-BEZ235 treatment alone. Gene expression and flow cytometry revealed that single and dual treatments induced apoptosis. Stem gene expression was retained in dual NVP-BEZ235/JAKi treatment samples. Future in vivo studies may give further insight into the impact of combined NVP-BEZ235/JAKi treatment in GBM and BBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neftali Vazquez
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Alma Lopez
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Victoria Cuello
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Michael Persans
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Erin Schuenzel
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Wendy Innis-Whitehouse
- School of Medicine, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States
| | - Megan Keniry
- Department of Biology, University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539, United States.
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5
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Steins A, van Mackelenbergh MG, van der Zalm AP, Klaassen R, Serrels B, Goris SG, Kocher HM, Waasdorp C, de Jong JH, Tekin C, Besselink MG, Busch OR, van de Vijver MJ, Verheij J, Dijk F, van Tienhoven G, Wilmink JW, Medema JP, van Laarhoven HWM, Bijlsma MF. High-grade mesenchymal pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma drives stromal deactivation through CSF-1. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48780. [PMID: 32173982 PMCID: PMC7202203 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by an abundance of stroma. Multiple molecular classification efforts have identified a mesenchymal tumor subtype that is consistently characterized by high-grade growth and poor clinical outcome. The relation between PDAC stroma and tumor subtypes is still unclear. Here, we aimed to identify how PDAC cells instruct the main cellular component of stroma, the pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). We found in primary tissue that high-grade PDAC had reduced collagen deposition compared to low-grade PDAC. Xenografts and organotypic co-cultures established from mesenchymal-like PDAC cells featured reduced collagen and activated PSC content. Medium transfer experiments using a large set of PDAC cell lines revealed that mesenchymal-like PDAC cells consistently downregulated ACTA2 and COL1A1 expression in PSCs and reduced proliferation. We identified colony-stimulating factor 1 as the mesenchymal PDAC-derived ligand that deactivates PSCs, and inhibition of its receptor CSF1R was able to counteract this effect. In conclusion, high-grade PDAC features stroma that is low in collagen and activated PSC content, and targeting CSF1R offers direct options to maintain a tumor-restricting microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Steins
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Madelaine G van Mackelenbergh
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Amber P van der Zalm
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Remy Klaassen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Bryan Serrels
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research CentreGlasgow Precision Oncology LaboratoryUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Sandrine G Goris
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Hemant M Kocher
- Centre for Tumor BiologyBarts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Cynthia Waasdorp
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Joan H de Jong
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Cansu Tekin
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marc G Besselink
- Department of SurgeryCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Olivier R Busch
- Department of SurgeryCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Marc J van de Vijver
- Department of PathologyAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of PathologyAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Frederike Dijk
- Department of PathologyAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Geertjan van Tienhoven
- Department of Radiation OncologyAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Johanna W Wilmink
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Jan Paul Medema
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Hanneke WM van Laarhoven
- Department of Medical OncologyCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Bijlsma
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and RadiobiologyCenter for Experimental and Molecular MedicineCancer Center AmsterdamAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Oncode InstituteAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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6
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Tian K, Liu W, Zhang J, Fan X, Liu J, Zhao N, Yao C, Miao G. MicroRNA-125b exerts antitumor functions in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by targeting the STAT3 pathway. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2020; 25:12. [PMID: 32161621 PMCID: PMC7059386 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-020-00207-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNA-125b (miR-125b) is downregulated in human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). However, its function in CSCC has yet to be extensively explored. Here, we analyze the relationship between signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and miR-125b in CSCC. Methods Western blotting and quantitative RT-PCR were used to determine the expression of the miR-125b–STAT3 axis in human CSCC tissues and cell lines. The direct regulatory effect of miR-125b on STAT3 expression was assessed using a luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to determine the role of the miR-125b–STAT3 axis in CSCC cell proliferation and apoptosis. Results MiR-125b expression levels were significantly lower in CSCC cell lines and tissues than in normal cell lines and tissues. STAT3 was identified as the direct target of miR-125b. Upregulation of miR-125b and downregulation of STAT3 suppressed cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis. Cyclin D1 and Bcl2 were identified as the downstream targets of the miR-125–STAT3 axis. Conclusions Our findings indicate that miR-125b acts as a tumor suppressor in CSCC by targeting the STAT3 pathway. This observation increases our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of CSCC. Therapies aimed at activating miR-125b or inhibiting STAT3 signaling should be explored as potential treatments for CSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Tian
- 1Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Wanggen Liu
- 2Department of Histology and Embryology, Preclinical Medicine College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 China
| | - Jing Zhang
- 3Department of Pathology, Medical School, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Xiaoyi Fan
- 3Department of Pathology, Medical School, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Jingyuan Liu
- 3Department of Pathology, Medical School, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Nan Zhao
- 3Department of Pathology, Medical School, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Chunxia Yao
- 3Department of Pathology, Medical School, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
| | - Guoying Miao
- 1Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056002 China
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7
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GRIM-19 represses the proliferation and invasion of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cells associated with downregulation of STAT3 signaling. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:1169-1176. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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8
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Montes de Oca MK, Pearlman RL, McClees SF, Strickland R, Afaq F. Phytochemicals for the Prevention of Photocarcinogenesis. Photochem Photobiol 2017; 93:956-974. [PMID: 28063168 DOI: 10.1111/php.12711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure has an array of damaging effects and is the main cause of skin cancer in humans. Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, is the most common type of cancer. Incidence of NMSC has increased due to greater UV radiation, increased life expectancy and other changes in lifestyle; the annual cost of skin cancer treatment in the United States has increased concurrently to around eight billion dollars. Because of these trends, novel approaches to skin cancer prevention have become an important area of research to decrease skin cancer morbidity and defray the costs associated with treatment. Chemoprevention aims to prevent or delay the development of skin cancer through the use of phytochemicals. Use of phytochemicals as chemopreventive agents has gained attention due to their low toxicity and anticarcinogenic properties. Phytochemicals also exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects which support their use as chemopreventive agents, particularly for skin cancer. Preclinical and human studies have shown that phytochemicals decrease UV-induced skin damage and photocarcinogenesis. In this review article, we discuss the selected phytochemicals that may prevent or delay UV-induced carcinogenesis and highlight their potential use for skin protection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ross L Pearlman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Sarah F McClees
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Rebecca Strickland
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Farrukh Afaq
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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9
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Toll A, Salgado R, Espinet B, Díaz-Lagares A, Hernández-Ruiz E, Andrades E, Sandoval J, Esteller M, Pujol RM, Hernández-Muñoz I. MiR-204 silencing in intraepithelial to invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression. Mol Cancer 2016; 15:53. [PMID: 27457246 PMCID: PMC4960761 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-016-0537-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer and frequently progresses from an actinic keratosis (AK), a sun-induced keratinocyte intraepithelial neoplasia (KIN). Epigenetic mechanisms involved in the phenomenon of progression from AK to cSCC remain to be elicited. Methods Expression of microRNAs in sun-exposed skin, AK and cSCC was analysed by Agilent microarrays. DNA methylation of miR-204 promoter was determined by bisulphite treatment and pyrosequencing. Identification of miR-204 targets and pathways was accomplished in HaCat cells. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze STAT3 activation and PTPN11 expression in human biopsies. Results cSCCs display a marked downregulation of miR-204 expression when compared to AK. DNA methylation of miR-204 promoter was identified as one of the repressive mechanisms that accounts for miR-204 silencing in cSCC. In HaCaT cells miR-204 inhibits STAT3 and favours the MAPK signaling pathway, likely acting through PTPN11, a nuclear tyrosine phosphatase that is a direct miR-204 target. In non-peritumoral AK lesions, activated STAT3, as detected by pY705-STAT3 immunofluorescence, is retained in the membrane and cytoplasm compartments, whereas AK lesions adjacent to cSCCs display activated STAT3 in the nuclei. Conclusions Our data suggest that miR-204 may act as a “rheostat” that controls the signalling towards the MAPK pathway or the STAT3 pathway in the progression from AK to cSCC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12943-016-0537-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustí Toll
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. .,Group of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Dermatological Diseases, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Rocío Salgado
- Cytogenetics Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Blanca Espinet
- Cytogenetics Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angel Díaz-Lagares
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Evelyn Andrades
- Group of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Dermatological Diseases, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Sandoval
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Esteller
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Department of Physiological Sciences II, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ramón M Pujol
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Group of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Dermatological Diseases, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Hernández-Muñoz
- Group of Inflammatory and Neoplastic Dermatological Diseases, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.
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10
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Meng A, Zhang X, Shi Y. Role of p38 MAPK and STAT3 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mouse alveolar macrophages. Exp Ther Med 2014; 8:1772-1776. [PMID: 25371731 PMCID: PMC4218692 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive production of inflammatory mediators is an important feature of inflammatory lung disease. In macrophages, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) are crucial mediators for the production of proinflammatory cytokines. In the present study, the role of MAPK and STAT3 on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-10 production was investigated in mouse alveolar macrophages. The levels of TNF-α and IL-10 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 ng/ml)-stimulated MH-S cell lines were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, with or without p38 inhibitor (SB203580; 5, 10 or 15 μM) intervention. Phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) expression was examined by western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry following LPS stimulation for 15 or 30 min. Antibodies against STAT3 were used to verify comparable sample loading. Cells stimulated with LPS showed significantly increased levels of p-STAT3 protein (P<0.05) when compared with the baseline levels. TNF-α and IL-10 protein levels also increased following LPS stimulation (P<0.05). By contrast, treatment with the p38 inhibitor, SB203580, decreased the levels of p-STAT3, TNF-α and IL-10 (P<0.05) following LPS stimulation. SB203580 was shown to inhibit LPS-stimulated TNF-α expression (P<0.05) in a concentration-dependent manner, reaching significance at a concentration of 10 μM. However, the inhibition of IL-10 expression was not concentration-dependent. Therefore, LPS-stimulated overproduction of TNF-α and IL-10 is mediated at least partially by the MAPK pathway. Inhibition of p38 prevented LPS-induced STAT3 phosphorylation, indicating an interaction between the STAT3 and MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aihong Meng
- Respiratory Division, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhang
- Graduate School, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China ; Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei Province General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050051, P.R. China
| | - Yuna Shi
- Respiratory Division, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
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Yamamoto K, Uda A, Mukai A, Yamashita K, Kume M, Makimoto H, Bito T, Nishigori C, Hirano T, Hirai M. Everolimus-induced human keratinocytes toxicity is mediated by STAT3 inhibition. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2013; 32:83. [PMID: 24423131 PMCID: PMC3874739 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-32-83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors are associated with dermatological adverse events. The chief aim of this study was to examine the relation between the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) protein and the dermatological adverse events associated with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus. Methods We evaluated the effects of STAT3 activity and related signal transduction activities on everolimus-induced cell growth inhibition in the human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line via a WST-8 assay, and on signal transduction mechanisms involved in everolimus treatments via a western blot analysis. Apoptosis was evaluated using an imaging cytometric assay. Results The cell growth inhibitory effects of everolimus were enhanced by stattic or STA-21, which are selective inhibitors of STAT3, treatment in HaCaT cells, although such effects were not observed in Caki-1 and HepG2 cells. Phosphorylation at tyrosine 705 of STAT3 was decreased by treatment with everolimus in a dose-dependent manner in HaCaT cells; in contrast, phosphorylation at serine 727 was not decreased by everolimus, but slightly increased. Furthermore, we found that pretreatment of p38 MAPK inhibitor and transfection with constitutively active form of STAT3 in HaCaT cells resisted the cytostatic activity of everolimus. Conclusions These findings suggest that STAT3 activity may be a biomarker of everolimus-induced dermatological toxicity.
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Ma Y, Kowolik CM, Swiderski PM, Kortylewski M, Yu H, Horne DA, Jove R, Caballero OL, Simpson AJG, Lee FT, Pillay V, Scott AM. Humanized Lewis-Y specific antibody based delivery of STAT3 siRNA. ACS Chem Biol 2011; 6:962-70. [PMID: 21766840 DOI: 10.1021/cb200176v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The clinical application of siRNA is limited largely by the lack of efficient, cell-specific delivery systems. Antibodies are attractive delivery vehicles for targeted therapy due to their high specificity. In this study we describe the use of a humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb), hu3S193, against Lewis-Y (Le(y)), as a delivery vehicle for STAT3 siRNA. This mAb is rapidly internalized into Le(y)-expressing cancer cells via antigen recognition, and when coupled to STAT3 siRNA, a potentially powerful molecularly targeted delivery agent is created. Selective silencing of STAT3 is associated with tumor suppression. Two hu3S193 based siRNA delivery systems using STAT3 siRNA as a prototype were developed and tested in Le(y)-positive cancer cells: (a) a covalent construct based on a reductive disulfide linker that is expected to undergo cleavage within cells and (b) a noncovalent construct based on (d-arginine)(9) (9r) modified hu3S193. Le(y)-specific binding and internalization of both the covalent and noncovalent constructs were confirmed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Both the covalent and the noncovalent system led to efficient STAT3 silencing in Le(y)-positive cancer cells (A431) but not in Le(y)-negative cancer cells (MDA-MB-435). The covalent construct, however, required co-treatment with reagents such as chloroquine or 9r that facilitate the escape of the siRNA from endosomes to achieve significant gene silencing. The 9r modified noncovalent construct induced ∼70% STAT3 knockdown at submicromolar siRNA concentrations when used at an optimal vehicle-to-siRNA ratio of 5:1. The STAT3 knockdown also led to ∼50% inhibition of cell proliferation of Le(y)-positive cells. Noncovalent linked STAT3 siRNA-hu3S193 has great promise for targeted knockdown of STAT3 in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Otavia L. Caballero
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, New York Branch at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Andrew J. G. Simpson
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, New York Branch at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, United States
| | - Fook-Thean Lee
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Melbourne-Austin Branch, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Vinochani Pillay
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Melbourne-Austin Branch, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
| | - Andrew M. Scott
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Melbourne-Austin Branch, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia
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Inhibition of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and PI3K/Akt Signaling Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Survival through Regulation of Stat3 Activation in Human Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Skin Cancer 2010; 2011:874571. [PMID: 21197106 PMCID: PMC3005828 DOI: 10.1155/2011/874571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have emphasized the important role of Stat3 activation in a number of human tumors from the viewpoint of its oncogenic and antiapoptotic activity. In this study, we examined the role and related signaling molecules of Stat3 in the carcinogenesis of human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In 35 human cutaneous SCC samples, 86% showed overexpression of phosphorylated (p)-Stat3, and most of those simultaneously overexpressed p-EGFR or p-Akt. Constitutive activation of EGFR and Stat3 was observed in three SCC cell lines and four of five SCC tissues. AG1478, an inhibitor of the EGFR, downregulated Stat3 activation in HSC-1 human SCC cells. AG1478 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis of HSC-1 cells but did not inhibit the growth of normal human epidermal keratinocytes that did not show Stat3 activation. Furthermore, a PI3K inhibitor also suppressed Stat3 activation in HSC-1 cells to some degree. Combined treatment with the PI3K inhibitor and AG1478 strongly suppressed Stat3 activity and dramatically induced apoptosis of HSC-1 cells. These data suggest that Stat3 activation through EGFR and/or PI3K/Akt activation plays a critical role in the proliferation and survival of human cutaneous SCC.
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PAI-1 Regulates the Invasive Phenotype in Human Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2010; 2009:963209. [PMID: 20204159 PMCID: PMC2829771 DOI: 10.1155/2009/963209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of highly aggressive subtypes of human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) often reflects increased autocrine/paracrine TGF-beta synthesis and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification. Cooperative TGF-beta/EGFR signaling promotes cell migration and induces expression of both proteases and protease inhibitors that regulate stromal remodeling resulting in the acquisition of an invasive phenotype. In one physiologically relevant model of human cutaneous SCC progression, TGF-beta1+EGF stimulation increases the production of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), among the most prominent of which is MMP-10-an MMP known to be elevated in SCC in situ. Activation of stromal plasminogen appears to be critical in triggering downstream MMP activity. Paradoxically, PAI-1, the major physiological inhibitor of plasmin generation, is also upregulated under these conditions and is an early event in progression of incipient epidermal SCC. One testable hypothesis proposes that TGF-beta1+EGF-dependent MMP-10 elevation directs focalized matrix remodeling events that promote epithelial cell plasticity and tissue invasion. Increased PAI-1 expression serves to temporally and spatially modulate plasmin-initiated pericellular proteolysis, further facilitating epithelial invasive potential. Defining the complex signaling and transcriptional mechanisms that maintain this delicate balance is critical to developing targeted therapeutics for the treatment of human cutaneous malignancies.
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Bito T, Sumita N, Masaki T, Shirakawa T, Ueda M, Yoshiki R, Tokura Y, Nishigori C. Ultraviolet light induces Stat3 activation in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts through reactive oxygen species and DNA damage. Exp Dermatol 2010; 19:654-60. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2010.01084.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Ranger JJ, Levy DE, Shahalizadeh S, Hallett M, Muller WJ. Identification of a Stat3-dependent transcription regulatory network involved in metastatic progression. Cancer Res 2009; 69:6823-30. [PMID: 19690134 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-1684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
High levels of activated Stat3 are often found in human breast cancers and can correlate with poor patient outcome. We employed an activated ErbB2 mouse model of breast cancer to investigate the in vivo role of Stat3 in mammary tumor progression and found that Stat3 does not alter mammary tumor initiation but dramatically affects metastatic progression. Four-fold fewer animals exhibited lung metastases in the absence of Stat3 and a 12-fold reduction in the number of lung lesions was observed in animals bearing Stat3-null tumors when compared with the wild-type cohort. The decreased malignancy in Stat3-deficient tumors is attributed to a reduction in both angiogenic and inflammatory responses associated with a Stat3-dependent transcriptional cascade involving CCAAT/enhancer binding protein delta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill J Ranger
- Goodman Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Chan HY, Siu MKY, Zhang HJ, Wong ESY, Ngan HYS, Chan KYK, Cheung ANY. Activated Stat3 expression in gestational trophoblastic disease: correlation with clinicopathological parameters and apoptotic indices. Histopathology 2008; 53:139-46. [PMID: 18752497 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2008.03089.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To assess the expression profile of the activated form of signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat)3 in gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) and correlate the findings with clinicopathological parameters. METHODS AND RESULTS By immunohistochemistry, both cytoplasmic and nuclear expression of p-Stat3-Ser(727) was demonstrated in 88 trophoblastic tissues, including placentas and GTD. Nuclear immunoreactivity of p-Stat3-Ser(727) was significantly higher in hydatidiform mole (HM) (P < 0.001) and choriocarcinoma (P = 0.009) when compared with normal placentas. Placental site trophoblastic tumours (PSTT) and epithelioid trophoblastic tumours (ETT) also demonstrated higher nuclear p-Stat3-Ser(727) expression than their normal trophoblast counterparts. Higher p-Stat3-Ser(727) expression was confirmed in choriocarcinoma cell lines, JEG-3 and JAR, than in a normal trophoblast cell line, with both nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions demonstrated by immunoblotting. Spontaneously regressed HM showed significantly increased nuclear and cytoplasmic p-Stat3-Ser(727) immunoreactivity over those that developed gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) (P = 0.013, P = 0.039). There was a significant positive and inverse correlation between nuclear p-Stat3-Ser(727) immunoreactivity and apoptotic indices [terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labelling and M30 CytoDeath antibody] (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, Spearman's rho test) and Bcl-2 expression (P = 0.034), respectively. CONCLUSIONS p-Stat3-Ser(727) plays a role in the pathogenesis of GTD, probably through the regulation of apoptosis. p-Stat3-Ser(727) immunoreactivity is a potential marker in predicting GTN in HM.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Y Chan
- Department of Pathology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China
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Maher SG, Sheikh F, Scarzello AJ, Romero-Weaver AL, Baker DP, Donnelly RP, Gamero AM. IFNalpha and IFNlambda differ in their antiproliferative effects and duration of JAK/STAT signaling activity. Cancer Biol Ther 2008; 7:1109-15. [PMID: 18698163 PMCID: PMC2435218 DOI: 10.4161/cbt.7.7.6192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferon (IFN)lambda, also known as IL-28A, IL-28B or IL-29, is a new type III IFN, which like type I IFN(alpha/beta), activates common elements of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and exhibits antiproliferative activity. Currently, IFNalpha is used in the treatment of certain forms of cancer, but its antitumor effects are limited and associated with high toxicity. In this study, we determined whether IFNlambda induced the same level of cell growth inhibition relative to IFNalpha. To this effect HaCaT cells, which are typically growth inhibited by IFNalpha, underwent apoptosis in response to IFNlambda. Next, in contrast to IFNalpha stimulation, IFNlambda prolonged the duration of activated STAT1 and STAT2. Furthermore, the kinetics of IFN-stimulated genes was different as IFNlambda induced a delayed but stronger induction of IFN-responsive genes. Components of the JAK/STAT pathway remained essential for the antiproliferative effects of IFNalpha and IFNlambda. IFNlambda-induced persistence of STAT activation required de novo protein synthesis and was in part due to a delay in STAT2 inactivation. Thus our data demonstrate that the duration of IFNlambda signaling is different from that of IFNalpha, and that IFNlambda could be a suitable cytokine to evaluate for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen G Maher
- Department of Surgery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Groner B, Lucks P, Borghouts C. The function of Stat3 in tumor cells and their microenvironment. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2008; 19:341-50. [PMID: 18621135 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2008.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2008] [Revised: 06/06/2008] [Accepted: 06/17/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Stat3 was initially recognized as a transcription factor and mediates the nuclear action of many different cytokines and growth factors. In addition to its roles in normal cell function, the inappropriate activation of Stat3 in tumor cells has attracted the attention of tumor biologists and has led to the consideration of Stat3 as a drug target. The induction of Stat3 activity under physiological circumstances is transient and many different levels of activation and deactivation have been defined. In addition to kinases and phosphatases, the SOCS proteins and the PIAS proteins have been recognized as negatively regulating components, which fine-tune the extent and the duration of Stat3 function. Its nuclear cytoplasmic shuttling is exquisitely regulated and adds to the complexity of Stat3 action. Newly discovered associations with cytoplasmic molecules suggest functions outside the conventional transcriptional regulation context. High molecular weight transcription complexes suggest that Stat3 might assume roles in transcriptional induction as well as in transcriptional suppression. The aberrant activation in tumor cells and the central function of Stat3 in the communication between cells of the immune system and tumor cells are of great interest for translational research projects and innovative drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Groner
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Biomedical Research, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 42-44, D-60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Huber M, Steinwald V, Guralnik A, Brüstle A, Kleemann P, Rosenplänter C, Decker T, Lohoff M. IL-27 inhibits the development of regulatory T cells via STAT3. Int Immunol 2007; 20:223-34. [PMID: 18156621 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxm139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory CD4+ T cells are important for the homeostasis of the immune system and their absence correlates with autoimmune disorders. Here, we investigate the capacity of IL-27, a cytokine with pro- and anti-inflammatory properties, to regulate the generation of transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta)-inducible forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)-positive regulatory T (Treg) cells. Our results demonstrate that IL-27 inhibits the acquisition of the Treg phenotype at the level of Foxp3, CD25 and CTLA-4 (CD152) expression as well as the suppressive function. In contrast to TGFbeta-induced Treg cells, the cells generated after differentiation in the presence of TGFbeta and IL-27 maintained the ability for IL-2 and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) production. The inhibitory effect of IL-27 on Treg generation was at least partially signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) dependent as examined by targeted STAT3 protein inhibition using small interfering RNA (siRNA), while STAT1-dependent signals seemed to oppose the STAT3 signals. In turn, TGFbeta blocked IL-27-induced T(h)1 differentiation. Thus, IL-27 and TGFbeta mutually control their effects on CD4+ T-cell differentiation, whereby IL-27 favours inflammatory conditions through a STAT3-dependent inhibition of Treg generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Huber
- Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Universität Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Strasse 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany.
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Yang SF, Yuan SSF, Yeh YT, Hung SC, Wu MT, Su JH, Chai CY. Positive association between STAT3 and Ki-67 in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2006; 22:539-46. [PMID: 17110342 DOI: 10.1016/s1607-551x(09)70350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has been regarded as an oncogene in many types of cancers. However, its role in cervical carcinogenesis is not well determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression patterns of STAT3 in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), normal cervix (NC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) to explore its possible role in cervical carcinogenesis. Paraffin-embedded sections from 83 patients including 20 CIN 1, 10 CIN 2, 26 CIN 3, and 27 comparative cases of 10 NC and 17 stage Ib SCC were collected in this study. Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyze the expression patterns of STAT3, and the results obtained were categorized by a semiquantitative method and were further correlated with the CIN histopathologic grade and the proliferation marker, Ki-67, using the chi2 test. Our results showed that nuclear STAT3 expression was predominantly in the squamous epithelial cells, and that high-grade CIN and stage Ib SCC lesions had a higher nuclear STAT3 expression when compared with NC and CIN 1. Furthermore, the nuclear STAT3 expression in CIN was significantly correlated with Ki-67 expression (p = 0.025), but not CIN lesion grade. In summary, our results indicate that an altered STAT3 expression in CIN is correlated with cell proliferation but may not have a direct contribution to cervical carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheau-Fang Yang
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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