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Banjan B, Vishwakarma R, Ramakrishnan K, Dev RR, Kalath H, Kumar P, Soman S, Raju R, Revikumar A, Rehman N, Abhinand CS. Targeting AFP-RARβ complex formation: a potential strategy for treating AFP-positive hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Divers 2024:10.1007/s11030-024-10915-8. [PMID: 38955977 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-024-10915-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein primarily expressed during embryogenesis, with declining levels postnatally. Elevated AFP levels correlate with pathological conditions such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent investigations underscore AFP's intracellular role in HCC progression, wherein it forms complexes with proteins like Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), Caspase 3 (CASP3), and Retinoic acid receptors and Retinoid X receptors (RAR/RXR). RAR and RXR regulate gene expression linked to cell death and tumorigenesis in normal physiology. AFP impedes RAR/RXR dimerization, nuclear translocation, and function, promoting gene expression favoring cancer progression in HCC that provoked us to target AFP as a drug candidate. Despite extensive studies, inhibitors targeting AFP to disrupt complex formation and activities remain scarce. In this study, employing protein-protein docking, amino acid residues involved in AFP-RARβ interaction were identified, guiding the definition of AFP's active site for potential inhibitor screening. Currently, kinase inhibitors play a significant role in cancer treatment and, the present study explores the potential of repurposing FDA-approved protein kinase inhibitors to target AFP. Molecular docking with kinase inhibitors revealed Lapatinib as a candidate drug of the AFP-RARβ complex. Molecular dynamics simulations and binding energy calculations, employing Mechanic/Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA), confirmed Lapatinib's stability with AFP. The study suggests Lapatinib's potential in disrupting the AFP-RARβ complex, providing a promising avenue for treating molecularly stratified AFP-positive HCC or its early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavya Banjan
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Riya Vishwakarma
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Krishnapriya Ramakrishnan
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Radul R Dev
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Haritha Kalath
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Nitte (Deemed to Be University), Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, NGSMPS, NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mangalore, 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Sowmya Soman
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Rajesh Raju
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM), Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore, 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Amjesh Revikumar
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
- Kerala Genome Data Centre, Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council, Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Niyas Rehman
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
| | - Chandran S Abhinand
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine (CSBMM), Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Deralakatte, Mangalore, 575018, Karnataka, India.
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Yeo YH, Lee YT, Tseng HR, Zhu Y, You S, Agopian VG, Yang JD. Alpha-fetoprotein: Past, present, and future. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0422. [PMID: 38619448 PMCID: PMC11019827 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein that plays an important role in immune regulation with critical involvement in early human development and maintaining the immune balance during pregnancy. Postfetal development, the regulatory mechanisms controlling AFP undergo a shift and AFP gene transcription is suppressed. Instead, these enhancers refocus their activity to maintain albumin gene transcription throughout adulthood. During the postnatal period, AFP expression can increase in the setting of hepatocyte injury, regeneration, and malignant transformation. It is the first oncoprotein discovered and is routinely used as part of a screening strategy for HCC. AFP has been shown to be a powerful prognostic biomarker, and multiple HCC prognosis models confirmed the independent prognostic utility of AFP. AFP is also a useful predictive biomarker for monitoring the treatment response of HCC. In addition to its role as a biomarker, AFP plays important roles in immune modulation to promote tumorigenesis and thus has been investigated as a therapeutic target in HCC. In this review article, we aim to provide an overview of AFP, encompassing the discovery, biological role, and utility as an HCC biomarker in combination with other biomarkers and how it impacts clinical practice and future direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee Hui Yeo
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yi-Te Lee
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hsian-Rong Tseng
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yazhen Zhu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ronald Reagan Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sungyong You
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Vatche G. Agopian
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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3
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Chaudhuri AG, Samanta S, Dey M, Raviraja NS, Dey S. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Pathogenesis of Cancer. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol 2024; 43:57-76. [PMID: 38505913 DOI: 10.1615/jenvironpatholtoxicoloncol.2023049145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) belongs to the albuminoid protein family and is considered as the fetal analog of serum albumin. This plasma protein is initially synthesized in the fetal liver and yolk sac and shows a maximum peak near the end of the first trimester. Later, concentrations begin to decline prenatally and drop precipitously after birth. This protein has three key ligand-binding pockets for interactions with various biomolecules. It contains multiple phosphorylation and acetylation sites for the regulation of physiological and pathophysiological states. High serum AFP titer is an established biomarker for yolk sac, embryonal and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present review critically analyzes the chemical nature, receptors, clinical implications, and therapeutic aspects of AFP, underpinning the development of different types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Ghosh Chaudhuri
- Department of Physiology, Vidyasagar College, Kolkata 700 006, West Bengal, India
| | - Saptadip Samanta
- Department of Physiology, Midnapore College, Midnapore, Paschim Medinipur 721101, West Bengal, India
| | - Monalisha Dey
- Department of Physiology, Vidyasagar College, Kolkata 700 006, West Bengal, India
| | - N S Raviraja
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, Karnataka, India
| | - Souvik Dey
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, Karnataka, India
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Sasikumar S, Chameettachal S, K N V, Kingshott P, Cromer B, Pati F. Strategic Replication of the Hepatic Zonation In Vitro Employing a Biomimetic Approach. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:5224-5234. [PMID: 38014618 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00481] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The varied functions of the liver are dependent on the metabolic heterogeneity exhibited by the hepatocytes within the liver lobule spanning the porto-central axis. This complex phenomenon plays an important role in maintaining the physiological homeostasis of the liver. Standard in vitro culture models fail to mimic this spatial heterogeneity of hepatocytes, assuming a homogeneous population of cells, which leads to inaccurate translation of results. Here, we demonstrate the development of an in vitro model of hepatic zonation by mimicking the microarchitecture of the liver using a 3D printed mini bioreactor and decellularized liver matrix to provide the native microenvironmental cues. There was a differential expression of hypoxic and metabolic markers across the developed mini bioreactor, showing the establishment of gradients of oxygen, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and other metabolic pathways. The model also showed the establishment of zone-dependent toxicity on treatment with acetaminophen. The developed model would thus be a promising avenue in the field of tissue engineering for understanding the liver physiology and pathophysiology and for drug screening to evaluate the potential of new pharmaceutical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyama Sasikumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502284, Telangana, India
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
| | - Shibu Chameettachal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502284, Telangana, India
| | - Vijayasankar K N
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502284, Telangana, India
| | - Peter Kingshott
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
- ARC Training Centre Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), School of Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
| | - Brett Cromer
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
| | - Falguni Pati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502284, Telangana, India
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Liu Y, Cui K, Zhao H, Ma W. A novel nomogram based on GD for predicting prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1174788. [PMID: 38023207 PMCID: PMC10646613 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1174788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The prognosis of liver cancer remains unfavorable nowadays, making the search for predictive biomarkers of liver cancer prognosis of paramount importance to guide clinical diagnosis and treatment. This study was conducted to explore more prognostic markers for most HCC. Patients and methods A total of 330 patients were enrolled in this study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Follow-up data were collected for all patients until the cutoff date of the study, February 2023. In addition, patient outcomes were assessed with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). All statistical analysis was conducted using R 4.2.0 software. Results Univariate analysis illustrated that the GD [the product of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) concentration and D-dimer concentration, GD=GGT*D-dimer] levels were related to PFS (p<0.05) and OS (p<0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank tests indicated a significant difference among different levels of GD (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated GD as an independent prognostic factor for HCC. The C-indexes of nomogram were 0.77 and 0.76 in the training or validation cohort, respectively. Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year OS showed satisfactory accuracy, and the calibration curve illustrated brilliant consistence between the ideal and predicted values. Conclusions Herein, it was demonstrated that GD was an independent prognostic factor for HCC and revealed the potential to predict the PFS and OS in patients with HCC. Moreover, the nomogram based on GD illustrated a satisfactory prediction ability in comparison to other models without GD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wang Ma
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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6
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Li M, Mei YX, Wen JH, Jiao YR, Pan QR, Kong XX, Li J. Hepatoid adenocarcinoma-Clinicopathological features and molecular characteristics. Cancer Lett 2023; 559:216104. [PMID: 36863507 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216104] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatoid adenocarcinoma (HAC) is a rare, malignant, extrahepatic tumor with histologic features similar to those of hepatocellular carcinoma. HAC is most often associated with elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). HAC can occur in multiple organs, including the stomach, esophagus, colon, pancreas, lungs, and ovaries. HAC differs greatly from typical adenocarcinoma in terms of its biological aggression, poor prognosis, and clinicopathological characteristics. However, the mechanisms underlying its development and invasive metastasis remain unclear. The purpose of this review was to summarize the clinicopathological features, molecular traits, and molecular mechanisms driving the malignant phenotype of HAC, in order to support the clinical diagnosis and treatment of HAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Yan-Xia Mei
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Ji-Hang Wen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Yu-Rong Jiao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Qiang-Rong Pan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China
| | - Xiang-Xing Kong
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, China; Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, China.
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7
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Liu H, Hu B, Luan J, Sun Y, Wang S, Li W, Chen L, Wang H, Gao Y, Wang J. Structural requirement of RARγ agonism through computational aspects. J Mol Model 2023; 29:108. [PMID: 36964229 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-023-05507-6] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT RARγ is a therapeutic target for many skin diseases and has potential in cancer treatment. In the current study, we put forward a comprehensive structure-activity relationship study of third and fourth generations of RARγ agonists, addressing multiple crystal structures of RARγ complexes and approved drugs. Adapalene and Trifarotene, through hybrid strategies including protein contacts Atlas analysis, molecular docking, dynamics simulations, MM-GBSA, ASM, and pharmacophore modeling. Our result revealed crucial amino acids Arg267, Ser278, Phe288, Phe230, Met272, Leu271, and Leu268 within the RARγ pocket, as well as pharmacophore features such as two hydrophobic groups, two aromatic rings, and negative ionic features, which are essential for the binding of RARγ agonists. Based on this study, the binding mechanism of RARγ agonists was elucidated, which will be helpful for the rational design of new RARγ agonists for skin diseases and cancer treatment. METHODS In this study, Schrödinger suite 2021-2 with OPLS_4 force field, Discovery Studio program 3.0, LigandScout 4.3, and PyMOL are utilized in the investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Baichun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiasi Luan
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Medical Devices, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Shizun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Weixai Li
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanxun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinli Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Design and New Drug Discovery of Liaoning Province, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Wang Q, Li W, Zhang M, Zou Z, Dong X, Chen Y, Xu J, Zhu M, Li M, Lin B. α-Fetoprotein fragment synergizes with sorafenib to inhibit hepatoma cell growth and migration and promote the apoptosis. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:5426-5438. [PMID: 36181321 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by stimulating the proliferation, metastasis and drug resistance. The application of AFP fragments to inhibit the malignant behaviours induced by AFP is a new strategy for the treatment of HCC. In an effort to design, screen and discover drugs, we attempted to express different human AFP fragments (AFP220-609 , AFP390-609 and AFP460-609 ) in a Bac-to-Bac system. We found that the AFP390-609 fragment was highly expressed in the system. Then, we assessed the bioactivity of the fragment in the human liver cancer cell line Bel7402, and the results indicated that the AFP fragment synergized with sorafenib to inhibit the hepatoma cell growth and migration and promote the apoptosis. This study provides a method to produce significant AFP fragments to screen AFP inhibitors for use in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiujiao Wang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Minni Zhang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Zijuan Zou
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Junnv Xu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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9
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Sun Y, He Y, Tong J, Liu D, Zhang H, He T, Bi Y. All-trans retinoic acid inhibits the malignant behaviors of hepatocarcinoma cells by regulating ferroptosis. Genes Dis 2022; 9:1742-1756. [PMID: 36157492 PMCID: PMC9485287 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Sun
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Yun He
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Jishuang Tong
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Daijiang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chongqing Emergency Medical Centre, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Haodong Zhang
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Tongchuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Centre, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yang Bi
- Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing 400014, PR China
- Corresponding author. Stem Cell Biology and Therapy Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Building 7, Room 905, 136 Zhongshan Er Road, Chongqing 400014, PR China.
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10
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Melis M, Tang XH, Trasino SE, Gudas LJ. Retinoids in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Liver Diseases. Nutrients 2022; 14:1456. [PMID: 35406069 PMCID: PMC9002467 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA), all-trans-retinol (ROL), and its analogs are collectively called retinoids. Acting through the retinoic acid receptors RARα, RARβ, and RARγ, all-trans-retinoic acid, an active metabolite of VA, is a potent regulator of numerous biological pathways, including embryonic and somatic cellular differentiation, immune functions, and energy metabolism. The liver is the primary organ for retinoid storage and metabolism in humans. For reasons that remain incompletely understood, a body of evidence shows that reductions in liver retinoids, aberrant retinoid metabolism, and reductions in RAR signaling are implicated in numerous diseases of the liver, including hepatocellular carcinoma, non-alcohol-associated fatty liver diseases, and alcohol-associated liver diseases. Conversely, restoration of retinoid signaling, pharmacological treatments with natural and synthetic retinoids, and newer agonists for specific RARs show promising benefits for treatment of a number of these liver diseases. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the literature demonstrating a role for retinoids in limiting the pathogenesis of these diseases and in the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Melis
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
| | - Xiao-Han Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
| | - Steven E. Trasino
- Nutrition Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Lorraine J. Gudas
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA; (M.M.); (X.-H.T.)
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11
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Lin B, Dong X, Wang Q, Li W, Zhu M, Li M. AFP-Inhibiting Fragments for Drug Delivery: The Promise and Challenges of Targeting Therapeutics to Cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:635476. [PMID: 33898423 PMCID: PMC8061420 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.635476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) plays a key role in stimulating the growth, metastasis and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AFP is an important target molecule in the treatment of HCC. The application of AFP-derived peptides, AFP fragments and recombinant AFP (AFP-inhibiting fragments, AIFs) to inhibit the binding of AFP to intracellular proteins or its receptors is the basis of a new strategy for the treatment of HCC and other cancers. In addition, AIFs can be combined with drugs and delivery agents to target treatments to cancer. AIFs conjugated to anticancer drugs not only destroy cancer cells with these drugs but also activate immune cells to kill cancer cells. Furthermore, AIF delivery of drugs relieves immunosuppression and enhances chemotherapy effects. The synergism of immunotherapy and targeted chemotherapy is expected to play an important role in enhancing the treatment effect of patients with cancer. AIF delivery of drugs will be an available strategy for the targeted treatment of cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Qiujiao Wang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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12
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Lin B, Wang Q, Liu K, Dong X, Zhu M, Li M. Alpha-Fetoprotein Binding Mucin and Scavenger Receptors: An Available Bio-Target for Treating Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:625936. [PMID: 33718192 PMCID: PMC7947232 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.625936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) entrance into cancer cells is mediated by AFP receptors (AFPRs) and exerts malignant effects. Therefore, understanding the structure of AFPRs will facilitate the development of rational approaches for vaccine design, drug delivery, antagonizing immune suppression and diagnostic imaging to treat cancer effectively. Throughout the last three decades, the identification of universal receptors for AFP has failed due to their complex carbohydrate polymer structures. Here, we focused on the two types of binding proteins or receptors that may serve as AFPRs, namely, the A) mucin receptors family, and B) the scavenger family. We presented an informative review with detailed descriptions of the signal transduction, cross-talk, and interplay of various transcription factors which highlight the downstream events following AFP binding to mucin or scavenger receptors. We mainly explored the underlying mechanisms involved mucin or scavenger receptors that interact with AFP, provide more evidence to support these receptors as tumor AFPRs, and establish a theoretical basis for targeting therapy of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Lin
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Qiujiao Wang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Dong
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China.,Institution of Tumor, Hainan Medical College, Haikou, China
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13
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Carr BI, Guerra V, Donghia R, Farinati F, Giannini EG, Muratori L, Rapaccini GL, Di Marco M, Caturelli E, Zoli M, Sacco R, Celsa C, Campani C, Mega A, Guarino M, Gasbarrini A, Svegliati-Baroni G, Foschi FG, Biasini E, Masotto A, Nardone G, Raimondo G, Azzaroli F, Vidili G, Brunetto MR, Trevisani F. Identification of Clinical Phenotypes and Related Survival in Patients with Large HCCs. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040592. [PMID: 33546234 PMCID: PMC7913341 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) factors, especially maximum tumor diameter (MTD), tumor multifocality, portal vein thrombosis (PVT), and serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), influence survival. AIM To examine patterns of tumor factors in large HCC patients. METHODS A database of large HCC patients was examined. RESULTS A multiple Cox proportional hazard model on death identified low serum albumin levels and the presence of PVT and multifocality, with each having a hazard ratio ≥2.0. All combinations of these three parameters were examined in relation to survival. Using univariate Cox analysis, the combination of albumin >3.5 g/dL and the absence of both PVT and multifocality had the best survival rate, while all combinations that included the presence of PVT had poor survival and hazard ratios. We identified four clinical phenotypes, each with a distinct median survival: patients with or without PVT or multifocality plus serum albumin ≥3.5 (g/dL), with each subgroup displaying high (≥100 IU/mL) or low (<100 IU/mL) blood AFP levels. Across a range of MTDs, we identified only two significant trends, blood AFP and platelets. CONCLUSIONS Patients with large HCCs have distinct phenotypes and survival, as identified by the combination of PVT, multifocality, and blood albumin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian I. Carr
- Translational HCC Research Department, Liver Transplant Institute, Inonu University, Malatya 44000, Turkey
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +14-12-980-4518
| | - Vito Guerra
- Clinical Trials Department, National Institute of Digestive Diseases, IRCCS S. de Bellis Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (V.G.); (R.D.)
| | - Rossella Donghia
- Clinical Trials Department, National Institute of Digestive Diseases, IRCCS S. de Bellis Research Hospital, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy; (V.G.); (R.D.)
| | - Fabio Farinati
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
| | - Edoardo G. Giannini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Genova, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Luca Muratori
- Internal Medicine–Piscaglia Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S. Orsola-Malpighi, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Gian Ludovico Rapaccini
- Gastroenterology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Roma, Italy;
| | - Maria Di Marco
- Medicine Unit, Bolognini Hospital, 24068 Seriate, Italy;
| | | | - Marco Zoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Internal Medicine–Zoli Unit, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Rodolfo Sacco
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Foggia University Hospital, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Ciro Celsa
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother & Child Care, Internal Medicine & Medical Specialties, PROMISE, Gastroenterology & Hepatology Unit, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Claudia Campani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, University of Firenze, 50121 Firenze, Italy;
| | - Andrea Mega
- Gastroenterology Unit, Bolzano Regional Hospital, 39100 Bolzano, Italy;
| | - Maria Guarino
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Napoli “Federico II”, 80138 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology Unit, Policlinico Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Roma, Italy;
| | | | | | - Elisabetta Biasini
- Infectious Diseases and Hepatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Alberto Masotto
- Gastroenterology Unit, Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, 37024 Negrar, Italy;
| | - Gerardo Nardone
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Hepato-Gastroenterology Unit, University of Napoli “Federico II”, 37024 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Raimondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Medicine and Hepatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Francesco Azzaroli
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Gianpaolo Vidili
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, Clinica Medica Unit, University of Sassari, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Maurizia Rossana Brunetto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Hepatology and Liver Physiopathology Laboratory and Internal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Franco Trevisani
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
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