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Cavalcante BRR, Freitas RD, Siquara da Rocha LO, Santos RSB, Souza BSDF, Ramos PIP, Rocha GV, Gurgel Rocha CA. In silico approaches for drug repurposing in oncology: a scoping review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1400029. [PMID: 38919258 PMCID: PMC11196849 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1400029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Due to its complexity, it has been hard to find an ideal medicine to treat all cancer types, although there is an urgent need for it. However, the cost of developing a new drug is high and time-consuming. In this sense, drug repurposing (DR) can hasten drug discovery by giving existing drugs new disease indications. Many computational methods have been applied to achieve DR, but just a few have succeeded. Therefore, this review aims to show in silico DR approaches and the gap between these strategies and their ultimate application in oncology. Methods: The scoping review was conducted according to the Arksey and O'Malley framework and the Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. Relevant studies were identified through electronic searching of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as the grey literature. We included peer-reviewed research articles involving in silico strategies applied to drug repurposing in oncology, published between 1 January 2003, and 31 December 2021. Results: We identified 238 studies for inclusion in the review. Most studies revealed that the United States, India, China, South Korea, and Italy are top publishers. Regarding cancer types, breast cancer, lymphomas and leukemias, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer are the top investigated. Additionally, most studies solely used computational methods, and just a few assessed more complex scientific models. Lastly, molecular modeling, which includes molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, was the most frequently used method, followed by signature-, Machine Learning-, and network-based strategies. Discussion: DR is a trending opportunity but still demands extensive testing to ensure its safety and efficacy for the new indications. Finally, implementing DR can be challenging due to various factors, including lack of quality data, patient populations, cost, intellectual property issues, market considerations, and regulatory requirements. Despite all the hurdles, DR remains an exciting strategy for identifying new treatments for numerous diseases, including cancer types, and giving patients faster access to new medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Raphael Ribeiro Cavalcante
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine of the School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Raíza Dias Freitas
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Social and Pediatric Dentistry of the School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Leonardo de Oliveira Siquara da Rocha
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine of the School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Bruno Solano de Freitas Souza
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- D’Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Pablo Ivan Pereira Ramos
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- Center of Data and Knowledge Integration for Health (CIDACS), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Gisele Vieira Rocha
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- D’Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Clarissa Araújo Gurgel Rocha
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine of the School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
- D’Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Salvador, Brazil
- Department of Propaedeutics, School of Dentistry of the Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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Mosa FES, Alqahtani MA, El-Ghiaty MA, Barakat K, El-Kadi AOS. Identifying novel aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulators from clinically approved drugs: In silico screening and In vitro validation. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 754:109958. [PMID: 38499054 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.109958] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) functions as a vital ligand-activated transcription factor, governing both physiological and pathophysiological processes. Notably, it responds to xenobiotics, leading to a diverse array of outcomes. In the context of drug repurposing, we present here a combined approach of utilizing structure-based virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations. This approach aims to identify potential AhR modulators from Drugbank repository of clinically approved drugs. By focusing on the AhR PAS-B binding pocket, our screening protocol included binding affinities calculations, complex stability, and interactions within the binding site as a filtering method. Comprehensive evaluations of all DrugBank small molecule database revealed ten promising hits. This included flibanserin, butoconazole, luliconazole, naftifine, triclabendazole, rosiglitazone, empagliflozin, benperidol, nebivolol, and zucapsaicin. Each exhibiting diverse binding behaviors and remarkably very low binding free energy. Experimental studies further illuminated their modulation of AhR signaling, and showing that they are consistently reducing AhR activity, except for luliconazole, which intriguingly enhances the AhR activity. This work demonstrates the possibility of using computational modelling as a quick screening tool to predict new AhR modulators from extensive drug libraries. Importantly, these findings hold immense therapeutic potential for addressing AhR-associated disorders. Consequently, it offers compelling prospects for innovative interventions through drug repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farag E S Mosa
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mohammed A Alqahtani
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mahmoud A El-Ghiaty
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Khaled Barakat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Ayman O S El-Kadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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3
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Miret NV, Pontillo CA, Buján S, Chiappini FA, Randi AS. Mechanisms of breast cancer progression induced by environment-polluting aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115773. [PMID: 37659737 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115773] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common invasive malignancy among women worldwide and constitutes a complex and heterogeneous disease. Interest has recently grown in the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in breast cancer and the contribution of environment-polluting AhR agonists. Here, we present a literature review addressing AhR ligands, including pesticides hexachlorobenzene and chlorpyrifos, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, polychlorinated biphenyls, parabens, and phthalates. The objectives of this review are a) to summarize recent original experimental, preclinical, and clinical studies on the biological mechanisms of AhR agonists which interfere with the regulation of breast endocrine functions, and b) to examine the biological effects of AhR ligands and their impact on breast cancer development and progression. We discuss biological mechanisms of action in cell viability, cell cycle, proliferation, epigenetic changes, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and cell migration and invasion. In addition, we examine the effects of AhR ligands on angiogenic processes, metastasis, chemoresistance, and stem cell renewal. We conclude that exposure to AhR agonists stimulates pathways that promote breast cancer development and may contribute to tumor progression. Given the massive use of industrial and agricultural chemicals, ongoing evaluation of their effects in laboratory assays and preclinical studies in breast cancer at environmentally relevant doses is deemed essential. Likewise, awareness should be raised in the population regarding the most harmful toxicants to eradicate or minimize their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia V Miret
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, Piso 5, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Físico-Matemática, Laboratorio de Radioisótopos, Junín 954, 1er subsuelo (CP1113), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Carolina A Pontillo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, Piso 5, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sol Buján
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, Piso 5, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia A Chiappini
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, Piso 5, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea S Randi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, Piso 5, (CP 1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Hanieh H, Bani Ismail M, Alfwuaires MA, Ibrahim HIM, Farhan M. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor as an Anticancer Target: An Overview of Ten Years Odyssey. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28103978. [PMID: 37241719 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28103978] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-activated transcription factor belonging to the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH)/per-Arnt-sim (PAS) superfamily, is traditionally known to mediate xenobiotic metabolism. It is activated by structurally diverse agonistic ligands and regulates complicated transcriptional processes through its canonical and non-canonical pathways in normal and malignant cells. Different classes of AhR ligands have been evaluated as anticancer agents in different cancer cells and exhibit efficiency, which has thrust AhR into the limelight as a promising molecular target. There is strong evidence demonstrating the anticancer potential of exogenous AhR agonists including synthetic, pharmaceutical, and natural compounds. In contrast, several reports have indicated inhibition of AhR activity by antagonistic ligands as a potential therapeutic strategy. Interestingly, similar AhR ligands exert variable anticancer or cancer-promoting potential in a cell- and tissue-specific mode of action. Recently, ligand-mediated modulation of AhR signaling pathways and the associated tumor microenvironment is emerging as a potential approach for developing cancer immunotherapeutic drugs. This article reviews advances of AhR in cancer research covering publication from 2012 to early 2023. It summarizes the therapeutic potential of various AhR ligands with an emphasis on exogenous ligands. It also sheds light on recent immunotherapeutic strategies involving AhR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Hanieh
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aqaba Medical Sciences University, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
- International Medical Research Center (iMReC), Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Bani Ismail
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aqaba Medical Sciences University, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
| | - Manal A Alfwuaires
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hairul-Islam M Ibrahim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahdi Farhan
- International Medical Research Center (iMReC), Aqaba 77110, Jordan
- Department of Drug Development, UniTechPharma, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
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In-depth analysis of the interactions of various aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands from a computational perspective. J Mol Graph Model 2023; 118:108339. [PMID: 36183684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2022.108339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that acts as a machinery that controls the expression of many genes, including cytochrome P450 CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP1B1. It plays a principal role in numerous biological and toxicological functions, making it a promising target for developing therapeutic agents. Several novel small molecules targeting the AhR signaling pathway are currently under investigation as antitumor agents. Some have already advanced into clinical trials in patients with various tumors. Activation of AhR by diverse chemicals either endogenous or exogenous is initiated by the binding of these ligands to the PAS-B domain, which modulates AhR functions. There is, however, limited information about how various ligands interact with the PAS-B domain for activating or inhibiting the AhR. To better understand the mode of action of AhR agonists/antagonists. The current work proposes a combination of several computational tools to build dynamical models for the PAS-B domain bound to different ligands in mouse and human. Our findings reveal the essential roles of specific PAS-B residues (e.g., S365, V381& Q383), which mediate the AhR ligand-binding process. Our results also explain how these residues regulate the promiscuity of AhR in accommodating various chemicals in its binding PAS-B ligand-binding pocket.
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The Role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and Its Ligands in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225574. [PMID: 36428667 PMCID: PMC9688153 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a complex disease which is defined by numerous cellular and molecular markers that can be used to develop more targeted and successful therapies. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is overexpressed in many breast tumor sub-types, including estrogen receptor -positive (ER+) tumors; however, the prognostic value of the AhR for breast cancer patient survival is not consistent between studies. Moreover, the functional role of the AhR in various breast cancer cell lines is also variable and exhibits both tumor promoter- and tumor suppressor- like activity and the AhR is expressed in both ER-positive and ER-negative cells/tumors. There is strong evidence demonstrating inhibitory AhR-Rα crosstalk where various AhR ligands induce ER degradation. It has also been reported that different structural classes of AhR ligands, including halogenated aromatics, polynuclear aromatics, synthetic drugs and other pharmaceuticals, health promoting phytochemical-derived natural products and endogenous AhR-active compounds inhibit one or more of breast cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration/invasion, and metastasis. AhR-dependent mechanisms for the inhibition of breast cancer by AhR agonists are variable and include the downregulation of multiple genes/gene products such as CXCR4, MMPs, CXCL12, SOX4 and the modulation of microRNA levels. Some AhR ligands, such as aminoflavone, have been investigated in clinical trials for their anticancer activity against breast cancer. In contrast, several publications have reported that AhR agonists and antagonists enhance and inhibit mammary carcinogenesis, respectively, and differences between the anticancer activities of AhR agonists in breast cancer may be due in part to cell context and ligand structure. However, there are reports showing that the same AhR ligand in the same breast cancer cell line gives opposite results. These differences need to be resolved in order to further develop and take advantage of promising agents that inhibit mammary carcinogenesis by targeting the AhR.
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Identification of environmental factors that promote intestinal inflammation. Nature 2022; 611:801-809. [PMID: 36266581 PMCID: PMC9898826 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05308-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have identified risk loci linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)1-a complex chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. The increasing prevalence of IBD in industrialized countries and the augmented disease risk observed in migrants who move into areas of higher disease prevalence suggest that environmental factors are also important determinants of IBD susceptibility and severity2. However, the identification of environmental factors relevant to IBD and the mechanisms by which they influence disease has been hampered by the lack of platforms for their systematic investigation. Here we describe an integrated systems approach, combining publicly available databases, zebrafish chemical screens, machine learning and mouse preclinical models to identify environmental factors that control intestinal inflammation. This approach established that the herbicide propyzamide increases inflammation in the small and large intestine. Moreover, we show that an AHR-NF-κB-C/EBPβ signalling axis operates in T cells and dendritic cells to promote intestinal inflammation, and is targeted by propyzamide. In conclusion, we developed a pipeline for the identification of environmental factors and mechanisms of pathogenesis in IBD and, potentially, other inflammatory diseases.
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Benoit L, Jornod F, Zgheib E, Tomkiewicz C, Koual M, Coustillet T, Barouki R, Audouze K, Vinken M, Coumoul X. Adverse outcome pathway from activation of the AhR to breast cancer-related death. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 165:107323. [PMID: 35660951 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) are formalized and structured linear concepts that connect one molecular initiating event (MIE) to an adverse outcome (AO) via different key events (KE) through key event relationships (KER). They are mainly used in eco-toxicology toxicology, and regulatory health issues. AOPs must respond to specific guidelines from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to weight the evidence between each KE. Breast cancer is the deadliest cancer in women with a poor prognosis in case of metastatic breast cancer. The role of the environments in the formation of metastasis has been suggested. We hypothesized that activation of the AhR (MIE), a xenobiotic receptor, could lead to breast cancer related death (AO), through different KEs, constituting a new AOP. An artificial intelligence tool (AOP-helpfinder), which screens the available literature, was used to collect all existing scientific abstracts to build a novel AOP, using a list of key words. Four hundred and seven abstracts were found containing at least a word from our MIE list and either one word from our AO or KE list. A manual curation retained 113 pertinent articles, which were also screened using PubTator. From these analyses, an AOP was created linking the activation of the AhR to breast cancer related death through decreased apoptosis, inflammation, endothelial cell migration, angiogenesis, and invasion. These KEs promote an increased tumor growth, angiogenesis and migration which leads to breast cancer metastasis and breast cancer related death. The evidence of the proposed AOP was weighted using the tailored Bradford Hill criteria and the OECD guidelines. The confidence in our AOP was considered strong. An in vitro validation must be carried out, but our review proposes a strong relationship between AhR activation and breast cancer-related death with an innovative use of an artificial intelligence literature search.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Benoit
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, European Hospital Georges-Pompidou, Gynecologic and Breast Oncologic Surgery Department, Paris, France.
| | - Florence Jornod
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
| | - Elias Zgheib
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
| | - Celine Tomkiewicz
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
| | - Meriem Koual
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, European Hospital Georges-Pompidou, Gynecologic and Breast Oncologic Surgery Department, Paris, France
| | - Thibaut Coustillet
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
| | - Robert Barouki
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, European Hospital Georges-Pompidou, Gynecologic and Breast Oncologic Surgery Department, Paris, France
| | - Karine Audouze
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Xavier Coumoul
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris, France
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Yang CE, Wang YN, Hua MR, Miao H, Zhao YY, Cao G. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor: From pathogenesis to therapeutic targets in aging-related tissue fibrosis. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 79:101662. [PMID: 35688331 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Aging promotes chronic inflammation, which contributes to fibrosis and decreases organ function. Fibrosis, the excessive synthesis and deposition of extracellular matrix components, is the main cause of most chronic diseases including aging-related organ failure. Organ fibrosis in the heart, liver, and kidneys is the final manifestation of many chronic diseases. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a cytoplasmic receptor and highly conserved transcription factor that is activated by a variety of small-molecule ligands to affect a wide array of tissue homeostasis functions. In recent years, mounting evidence has revealed that AHR plays an important role in multi-organ fibrosis initiation, progression, and therapy. In this review, we summarise the relationship between AHR and the pathogenesis of aging-related tissue fibrosis, and further discuss how AHR modulates tissue fibrosis by regulating transforming growth factor-β signalling, immune response, and mitochondrial function, which may offer novel targets for the prevention and treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-E Yang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Meng-Ru Hua
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China.
| | - Gang Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China.
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Peyraud F, Guegan JP, Bodet D, Cousin S, Bessede A, Italiano A. Targeting Tryptophan Catabolism in Cancer Immunotherapy Era: Challenges and Perspectives. Front Immunol 2022; 13:807271. [PMID: 35173722 PMCID: PMC8841724 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.807271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolism of tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid, represent a major metabolic pathway that both promotes tumor cell intrinsic malignant properties as well as restricts antitumour immunity, thus emerging as a drug development target for cancer immunotherapy. Three cytosolic enzymes, namely indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), IDO2 and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2), catalyzes the first-rate limiting step of the degradation of Trp to kynurenine (Kyn) and modulates immunity toward immunosuppression mainly through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation in numerous types of cancer. By restoring antitumor immune responses and synergizing with other immunotherapies, the encouraging preclinical data of IDO1 inhibitors has dramatically failed to translate into clinical success when combined with immune checkpoints inhibitors, reigniting the debate of combinatorial approach. In this review, we i) provide comprehensive evidences on immunomodulatory role of the Trp catabolism metabolites that highlight this pathway as relevant target in immuno-oncology, ii)ii) discuss underwhelming results from clinical trials investigating efficacy of IDO1 inhibitors and underlying mechanisms that might have contributed to this failure, and finally, iii) discuss the current state-of-art surrounding alternative approaches of innovative antitumor immunotherapies that target molecules of Trp catabolism as well as challenges and perspectives in the era of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Peyraud
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Sophie Cousin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Antoine Italiano
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Sellami A, Réau M, Montes M, Lagarde N. Review of in silico studies dedicated to the nuclear receptor family: Therapeutic prospects and toxicological concerns. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:986016. [PMID: 36176461 PMCID: PMC9513233 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.986016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Being in the center of both therapeutic and toxicological concerns, NRs are widely studied for drug discovery application but also to unravel the potential toxicity of environmental compounds such as pesticides, cosmetics or additives. High throughput screening campaigns (HTS) are largely used to detect compounds able to interact with this protein family for both therapeutic and toxicological purposes. These methods lead to a large amount of data requiring the use of computational approaches for a robust and correct analysis and interpretation. The output data can be used to build predictive models to forecast the behavior of new chemicals based on their in vitro activities. This atrticle is a review of the studies published in the last decade and dedicated to NR ligands in silico prediction for both therapeutic and toxicological purposes. Over 100 articles concerning 14 NR subfamilies were carefully read and analyzed in order to retrieve the most commonly used computational methods to develop predictive models, to retrieve the databases deployed in the model building process and to pinpoint some of the limitations they faced.
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Vazquez-Rivera E, Rojas B, Parrott JC, Shen AL, Xing Y, Carney PR, Bradfield CA. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a model PAS sensor. Toxicol Rep 2021; 9:1-11. [PMID: 34950569 PMCID: PMC8671103 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins containing PER-ARNT-SIM (PAS) domains are commonly associated with environmental adaptation in a variety of organisms. The PAS domain is found in proteins throughout Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya and often binds small-molecules, supports protein-protein interactions, and transduces input signals to mediate an adaptive physiological response. Signaling events mediated by PAS sensors can occur through induced phosphorelays or genomic events that are often dependent upon PAS domain interactions. In this perspective, we briefly discuss the diversity of PAS domain containing proteins, with particular emphasis on the prototype member, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). This ligand-activated transcription factor acts as a sensor of the chemical environment in humans and many chordates. We conclude with the idea that since mammalian PAS proteins often act through PAS-PAS dimers, undocumented interactions of this type may link biological processes that we currently think of as independent. To support this idea, we present a framework to guide future experiments aimed at fully elucidating the spectrum of PAS-PAS interactions with an eye towards understanding how they might influence environmental sensing in human and wildlife populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Vazquez-Rivera
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Brenda Rojas
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Jessica C. Parrott
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Anna L. Shen
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Yongna Xing
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Patrick R. Carney
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Christopher A. Bradfield
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53706, United States
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13
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Coelho NR, Pimpão AB, Correia MJ, Rodrigues TC, Monteiro EC, Morello J, Pereira SA. Pharmacological blockage of the AHR-CYP1A1 axis: a call for in vivo evidence. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:215-243. [PMID: 34800164 PMCID: PMC8605459 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02163-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that can be activated by structurally diverse compounds arising from the environment and the microbiota and host metabolism. Expanding evidence has been shown that the modulation of the canonical pathway of AHR occurs during several chronic diseases and that its abrogation might be of clinical interest for metabolic and inflammatory pathological processes. However, most of the evidence on the pharmacological abrogation of the AHR-CYP1A1 axis has been reported in vitro, and therefore, guidance for in vivo studies is needed. In this review, we cover the state-of-the-art of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of AHR antagonists and CYP1A1 inhibitors in different in vivo rodent (mouse or rat) models of disease. This review will serve as a road map for those researchers embracing this emerging therapeutic area targeting the AHR. Moreover, it is a timely opportunity as the first AHR antagonists have recently entered the clinical stage of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Coelho
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A B Pimpão
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M J Correia
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - T C Rodrigues
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - E C Monteiro
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J Morello
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - S A Pereira
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056, Lisboa, Portugal.
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14
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Ravid JD, Kamel MH, Chitalia VC. Uraemic solutes as therapeutic targets in CKD-associated cardiovascular disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2021; 17:402-416. [PMID: 33758363 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-021-00408-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by the retention of a myriad of solutes termed uraemic (or uremic) toxins, which inflict damage to several organs, including the cardiovascular system. Uraemic toxins can induce hallmarks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), such as atherothrombosis, heart failure, dysrhythmias, vessel calcification and dysregulated angiogenesis. CVD is an important driver of mortality in patients with CKD; however, reliance on conventional approaches to managing CVD risk is insufficient in these patients, underscoring a need to target risk factors that are specific to CKD. Mounting evidence suggests that targeting uraemic toxins and/or pathways induced by uraemic toxins, including tryptophan metabolites and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), can lower the risk of CVD in patients with CKD. Although tangible therapies resulting from our growing knowledge of uraemic toxicity are yet to materialize, a number of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches have the potential to abrogate the effects of uraemic toxins, for example, by decreasing the production of uraemic toxins, by modifying metabolic pathways induced by uraemic toxins such as those controlled by aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling and by augmenting the clearance of uraemic toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Ravid
- School of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohamed Hassan Kamel
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vipul C Chitalia
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. .,Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA. .,Global Co-creation Lab, Institute of Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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15
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de Araújo EF, Loures FV, Preite NW, Feriotti C, Galdino NA, Costa TA, Calich VLG. AhR Ligands Modulate the Differentiation of Innate Lymphoid Cells and T Helper Cell Subsets That Control the Severity of a Pulmonary Fungal Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:630938. [PMID: 33936043 PMCID: PMC8085362 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.630938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In agreement with other fungal infections, immunoprotection in pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is mediated by Th1/Th17 cells whereas disease progression by prevalent Th2/Th9 immunity. Treg cells play a dual role, suppressing immunity but also controlling excessive tissue inflammation. Our recent studies have demonstrated that the enzyme indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) and the transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) play an important role in the immunoregulation of PCM. To further evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of AhR in this fungal infection, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis infected mice were treated with two different AhR agonists, L-Kynurenin (L-Kyn) or 6-formylindole [3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ), and one AhR specific antagonist (CH223191). The disease severity and immune response of treated and untreated mice were assessed 96 hours and 2 weeks after infection. Some similar effects on host response were shared by FICZ and L-Kyn, such as the reduced fungal loads, decreased numbers of CD11c+ lung myeloid cells expressing activation markers (IA, CD40, CD80, CD86), and early increased expression of IDO and AhR. In contrast, the AhR antagonist CH223191 induced increased fungal loads, increased number of pulmonary CD11c+ leukocytes expressing activation markers, and a reduction in AhR and IDO production. While FICZ treatment promoted large increases in ILC3, L-Kyn and CH223191 significantly reduced this cell population. Each of these AhR ligands induced a characteristic adaptive immunity. The large expansion of FICZ-induced myeloid, lymphoid, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DCs) led to the increased expansion of all CD4+ T cell subpopulations (Th1, Th2, Th17, Th22, and Treg), but with a clear predominance of Th17 and Th22 subsets. On the other hand, L-Kyn, that preferentially activated plasmacytoid DCs, reduced Th1/Th22 development but caused a robust expansion of Treg cells. The AhR antagonist CH223191 induced a preferential expansion of myeloid DCs, reduced the number of Th1, Th22, and Treg cells, but increased Th17 differentiation. In conclusion, the present study showed that the pathogen loads and the immune response in pulmonary PCM can be modulated by AhR ligands. However, further studies are needed to define the possible use of these compounds as adjuvant therapy for this fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliseu F de Araújo
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávio V Loures
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nycolas W Preite
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Feriotti
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nayane Al Galdino
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tânia A Costa
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vera L G Calich
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Sun L. Recent advances in the development of AHR antagonists in immuno-oncology. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:902-914. [PMID: 34223158 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00015b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The arylhydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand activated transcription factor that controls the expression of a number of immunosuppressive signaling molecules, including the immune checkpoint proteins PD-1/L1 and cytokine IL-10. AHR activation also stimulates the formation and recruitment of tolerogenic dendritic cells, tumor associated macrophages, and regulatory T cells in the tumor microenvironment, which restrains antitumoral immune response. Overexpression of AHR has been observed in a number of different types of cancer and suggested to contribute to immune dysfunction and cancer progression. One prominent endogenous ligand of AHR is the oncometabolite kynurenine, a product of tryptophan metabolism catalyzed by the dioxygenases IDO1 and TDO that are often aberrantly activated in cancer. AHR has gained significant interest as a drug target for the development of novel small molecule cancer immunotherapies, as evidenced by the advancement of two clinical candidates into phase 1 clinical trials in patients with advanced cancer. Discussed in this Review is a brief background of AHR in immuno-oncology and the recent progress in the discovery and development of AHR antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Sun
- Center for Drug Discovery and Translational Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston MA 02215 USA
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17
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Chen S, Tan J, Zhang A. The ups, downs and new trends of IDO1 inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2021; 110:104815. [PMID: 33773223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has become an emerging driving force in the development of innovative strategies to fight against cancer. Despite the significant clinical benefits that many cancer patients have gained, the generally average response rate of ~ 20% is far behind the expectation for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Combination of ICIs with indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) inhibitors is considered as an alternative solution and has proved effective in tremendous preclinical studies. However, the failure of phase III ECHO-301/KEYNOTE-252 trial seriously dampened the enthusiasm on the rationality of IDO1-targeting strategy. Fortunately, in spite of the ups and downs in the developmental journey of IDO1 inhibitors, multiple new approaches have been proposed to bridge the gap between lab to the clinic. Here, we review the recent advances in the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting IDO1 especially the new trend of IDO1 inhibitors after ECHO-301 clinical trials, including dual or pan-inhibitors targeting IDO1 and TDO or IDO2, apo-IDO1 inhibitors, IDO1 PROTACs, as well as other IDO1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulun Chen
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Tan
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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18
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AhR and Cancer: From Gene Profiling to Targeted Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020752. [PMID: 33451095 PMCID: PMC7828536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that has been shown to be an essential regulator of a broad spectrum of biological activities required for maintaining the body’s vital functions. AhR also plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. Its role in cancer is complex, encompassing both pro- and anti-tumorigenic activities. Its level of expression and activity are specific to each tumor and patient, increasing the difficulty of understanding the activating or inhibiting roles of AhR ligands. We explored the role of AhR in tumor cell lines and patients using genomic data sets and discuss the extent to which AhR can be considered as a therapeutic target.
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19
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Wang Z, Snyder M, Kenison JE, Yang K, Lara B, Lydell E, Bennani K, Novikov O, Federico A, Monti S, Sherr DH. How the AHR Became Important in Cancer: The Role of Chronically Active AHR in Cancer Aggression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010387. [PMID: 33396563 PMCID: PMC7795223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was studied for its role in environmental chemical toxicity i.e., as a quirk of nature and a mediator of unintended consequences of human pollution. During that period, it was not certain that the AHR had a “normal” physiological function. However, the ongoing accumulation of data from an ever-expanding variety of studies on cancer, cancer immunity, autoimmunity, organ development, and other areas bears witness to a staggering array of AHR-controlled normal and pathological activities. The objective of this review is to discuss how the AHR has gone from a likely contributor to genotoxic environmental carcinogen-induced cancer to a master regulator of malignant cell progression and cancer aggression. Particular focus is placed on the association between AHR activity and poor cancer outcomes, feedback loops that control chronic AHR activity in cancer, and the role of chronically active AHR in driving cancer cell invasion, migration, cancer stem cell characteristics, and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyan Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Megan Snyder
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics, Division of Graduate Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA;
| | - Jessica E. Kenison
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA;
| | - Kangkang Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Brian Lara
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (B.L.); (K.B.)
| | - Emily Lydell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Kawtar Bennani
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (B.L.); (K.B.)
| | | | - Anthony Federico
- Division of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.F.); (S.M.)
| | - Stefano Monti
- Division of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.F.); (S.M.)
| | - David H. Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-358-1707
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20
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Tryptophan Metabolism as a Pharmacological Target. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 42:60-73. [PMID: 33256987 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid required for protein synthesis. It undergoes an extensive and complex metabolism along several pathways, resulting in many bioactive molecules acting in various organs through different action mechanisms. Enzymes involved in its metabolism, metabolites themselves, or their receptors, represent potential therapeutic targets, which are the subject of dynamic research. Disruptions in L-tryptophan metabolism are reported in several neurological, metabolic, psychiatric, and intestinal disorders, paving the way to develop drugs to target it. This review will briefly describe L-tryptophan metabolism and present and discuss the most recent pharmacological developments targeting it.
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21
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Wilkinson IVL, Perkins KJ, Dugdale H, Moir L, Vuorinen A, Chatzopoulou M, Squire SE, Monecke S, Lomow A, Geese M, Charles PD, Burch P, Tinsley JM, Wynne GM, Davies SG, Wilson FX, Rastinejad F, Mohammed S, Davies KE, Russell AJ. Chemical Proteomics and Phenotypic Profiling Identifies the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor as a Molecular Target of the Utrophin Modulator Ezutromid. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201912392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel V. L. Wilkinson
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Kelly J. Perkins
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene Function South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3PT UK
| | - Hannah Dugdale
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene Function South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3PT UK
| | - Lee Moir
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene Function South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3PT UK
| | - Aini Vuorinen
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Maria Chatzopoulou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Sarah E. Squire
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene Function South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3PT UK
| | - Sebastian Monecke
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen Campus Essener Bogen 7 22419 Hamburg Germany
| | - Alexander Lomow
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen Campus Essener Bogen 7 22419 Hamburg Germany
| | - Marcus Geese
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen Campus Essener Bogen 7 22419 Hamburg Germany
| | - Philip D. Charles
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Oxford South Parks Rd Oxford OX1 3QU UK
- Target Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOld Road Campus Roosevelt Drive Oxford OX3 7FZ UK
| | - Peter Burch
- Summit Therapeutics plc. 136a Eastern Avenue, Milton Park Abingdon Oxfordshire OX14 4SB UK
| | - Jonathan M. Tinsley
- Summit Therapeutics plc. 136a Eastern Avenue, Milton Park Abingdon Oxfordshire OX14 4SB UK
| | - Graham M. Wynne
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Stephen G. Davies
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Francis X. Wilson
- Summit Therapeutics plc. 136a Eastern Avenue, Milton Park Abingdon Oxfordshire OX14 4SB UK
| | - Fraydoon Rastinejad
- Target Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOld Road Campus Roosevelt Drive Oxford OX3 7FZ UK
| | - Shabaz Mohammed
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Oxford South Parks Rd Oxford OX1 3QU UK
| | - Kay E. Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene Function South Parks Road Oxford OX1 3PT UK
| | - Angela J. Russell
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research Laboratory Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
- Department of PharmacologyUniversity of Oxford Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3PQ UK
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22
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Wilkinson IVL, Perkins KJ, Dugdale H, Moir L, Vuorinen A, Chatzopoulou M, Squire SE, Monecke S, Lomow A, Geese M, Charles PD, Burch P, Tinsley JM, Wynne GM, Davies SG, Wilson FX, Rastinejad F, Mohammed S, Davies KE, Russell AJ. Chemical Proteomics and Phenotypic Profiling Identifies the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor as a Molecular Target of the Utrophin Modulator Ezutromid. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:2420-2428. [PMID: 31755636 PMCID: PMC7003794 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201912392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle-wasting disease arising from mutations in the dystrophin gene. Upregulation of utrophin to compensate for the missing dystrophin offers a potential therapy independent of patient genotype. The first-in-class utrophin modulator ezutromid/SMT C1100 was developed from a phenotypic screen through to a Phase 2 clinical trial. Promising efficacy and evidence of target engagement was observed in DMD patients after 24 weeks of treatment, however trial endpoints were not met after 48 weeks. The objective of this study was to understand the mechanism of action of ezutromid which could explain the lack of sustained efficacy and help development of new generations of utrophin modulators. Using chemical proteomics and phenotypic profiling we show that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a target of ezutromid. Several lines of evidence demonstrate that ezutromid binds AhR with an apparent KD of 50 nm and behaves as an AhR antagonist. Furthermore, other reported AhR antagonists also upregulate utrophin, showing that this pathway, which is currently being explored in other clinical applications including oncology and rheumatoid arthritis, could also be exploited in future DMD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel V. L. Wilkinson
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
| | - Kelly J. Perkins
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene FunctionSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PTUK
| | - Hannah Dugdale
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene FunctionSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PTUK
| | - Lee Moir
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene FunctionSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PTUK
| | - Aini Vuorinen
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
| | - Maria Chatzopoulou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
| | - Sarah E. Squire
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene FunctionSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PTUK
| | - Sebastian Monecke
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen CampusEssener Bogen 722419HamburgGermany
| | - Alexander Lomow
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen CampusEssener Bogen 722419HamburgGermany
| | - Marcus Geese
- Evotec International GmbHManfred Eigen CampusEssener Bogen 722419HamburgGermany
| | - Philip D. Charles
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of OxfordSouth Parks RdOxfordOX1 3QUUK
- Target Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOld Road CampusRoosevelt DriveOxfordOX3 7FZUK
| | - Peter Burch
- Summit Therapeutics plc.136a Eastern Avenue, Milton ParkAbingdonOxfordshireOX14 4SBUK
| | - Jonathan M. Tinsley
- Summit Therapeutics plc.136a Eastern Avenue, Milton ParkAbingdonOxfordshireOX14 4SBUK
| | - Graham M. Wynne
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
| | - Stephen G. Davies
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
| | - Francis X. Wilson
- Summit Therapeutics plc.136a Eastern Avenue, Milton ParkAbingdonOxfordshireOX14 4SBUK
| | - Fraydoon Rastinejad
- Target Discovery InstituteUniversity of OxfordOld Road CampusRoosevelt DriveOxfordOX3 7FZUK
| | - Shabaz Mohammed
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of OxfordSouth Parks RdOxfordOX1 3QUUK
| | - Kay E. Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsUniversity of OxfordSir Henry Wellcome Building of Gene FunctionSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PTUK
| | - Angela J. Russell
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of OxfordChemistry Research LaboratoryMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3TAUK
- Department of PharmacologyUniversity of OxfordMansfield RoadOxfordOX1 3PQUK
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Rafieian-kopaei M, Hamedi A, Soleiman Dehkordi E, Pasdaran A, Pasdaran A. Phytochemical Investigation on Volatile Compositions and Methoxylated Flavonoids of Agrostis gigantea Roth. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2020; 19:360-370. [PMID: 33224243 PMCID: PMC7667570 DOI: 10.22037/ijpr.2019.15209.12935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In this study, methoxylated flavonoids and volatile constitutions of Agrostis gigantea Roth (Poaceae) were investigated for the first time. The flavonoids were identified by spectroscopic methods (1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, COSY, NOSEY, TCOSY, and HMBC). The volatile constitutions of aerial parts and seeds were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Two methoxylated flavonoids, luteolin 5-methyl ether (1), and cirsilineol (2) were isolated from the aerial parts of this plant. According to the GC-MS data the main constitutions of these volatile oils belong to the simple phenolic category which include coniferyl alcohol (18.80%) and eugenol (12.19%) in aerial parts and seeds, respectively. By using the computer- aided molecular modeling approaches, the binding affinity of these compounds was predicted in the catalytic domains of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). These two isolated flavonoids were investigated in-vitro for their inhibitory activity on 4T1 breast carcinoma cells. It was predicted that these compounds could be well-matched in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (3H82) active site, but based on the in-vitro assay, the IC50 values on cytotoxicity were 428.24 ±3.21 and 412.7±3.02 μg/mL for luteolin 5-methyl ether and cirsilineol, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that these flavonoids exhibit low cytotoxicity against 4T1 breast carcinoma cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Rafieian-kopaei
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Azadeh Hamedi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Ebrahim Soleiman Dehkordi
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Arsalan Pasdaran
- Senior Researcher, Kara Daru & Revive Chemistry Co. Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Aradalan Pasdaran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Puyskens A, Stinn A, van der Vaart M, Kreuchwig A, Protze J, Pei G, Klemm M, Guhlich-Bornhof U, Hurwitz R, Krishnamoorthy G, Schaaf M, Krause G, Meijer AH, Kaufmann SHE, Moura-Alves P. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Modulation by Tuberculosis Drugs Impairs Host Defense and Treatment Outcomes. Cell Host Microbe 2019; 27:238-248.e7. [PMID: 31901518 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance in tuberculosis (TB) is a public health threat of global dimension, worsened by increasing drug resistance. Host-directed therapy (HDT) is an emerging concept currently explored as an adjunct therapeutic strategy for TB. One potential host target is the ligand-activated transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which binds TB virulence factors and controls antibacterial responses. Here, we demonstrate that in the context of therapy, the AhR binds several TB drugs, including front line drugs rifampicin (RIF) and rifabutin (RFB), resulting in altered host defense and drug metabolism. AhR sensing of TB drugs modulates host defense mechanisms, notably impairs phagocytosis, and increases TB drug metabolism. Targeting AhR in vivo with a small-molecule inhibitor increases RFB-treatment efficacy. Thus, the AhR markedly impacts TB outcome by affecting both host defense and drug metabolism. As a corollary, we propose the AhR as a potential target for HDT in TB in adjunct to canonical chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Puyskens
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Anne Stinn
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Department for Structural Infection Biology, Center for Structural Systems Biology, Notkestraße 85, Hamburg 22607, Germany
| | - Michiel van der Vaart
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, Leiden 2333, the Netherlands
| | - Annika Kreuchwig
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Robert-Rössle-Strasse 10, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Jonas Protze
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Robert-Rössle-Strasse 10, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Gang Pei
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich Loeffler Institute, Südufer 10, Greifswald-Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - Marion Klemm
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Ute Guhlich-Bornhof
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Robert Hurwitz
- Protein Purification Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Gopinath Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Marcel Schaaf
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, Leiden 2333, the Netherlands
| | - Gerd Krause
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Robert-Rössle-Strasse 10, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Annemarie H Meijer
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, Leiden 2333, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan H E Kaufmann
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Hagler Institute for Advanced Study at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
| | - Pedro Moura-Alves
- Department of Immunology, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK.
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Trikha P, Lee DA. The role of AhR in transcriptional regulation of immune cell development and function. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2019; 1873:188335. [PMID: 31816350 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2019.188335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcriptional factor (TF) that is a member of the Per-Arnt-Sim family of proteins. AhR regulates diverse processes, including malignant transformation, hematopoietic cell development, and fate determination of immune cell lineages. Moreover, AhR forms a crucial link between innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. Malignant cells frequently evolve multiple mechanisms for suppressing tumor-specific responses, including the induction of suppressive pathways involving AhR and its metabolic byproducts in the tumor microenvironment that promote immune evasion and tumor progression. Thus, interest is high in further defining the role of AhR in carcinogenesis and immune development and regulation, particularly regarding the therapeutic interventions that unleash immune responses to cancer cells. Here, we provide an overview of the role of AhR in the regulation of innate and adaptive immune response and discuss the implications of targeting this pathway to augment the immune response in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Trikha
- Cellular Therapy & Cancer Immunotherapy Program, Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, WA-4112 Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, United States of America.
| | - Dean A Lee
- Cellular Therapy & Cancer Immunotherapy Program, Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, WA-4112 Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, United States of America
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Balaguer P, Delfosse V, Bourguet W. Mechanisms of endocrine disruption through nuclear receptors and related pathways. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Abstract
Immunotherapy through immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) is quickly transforming cancer treatment by improving patients' outcomes. However, innate and acquired resistance to ICBs remain a major challenge in clinical settings. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenases (IDOs) are enzymes involved in tryptophan catabolism with a central immunosuppressive function within the tumor microenvironment. IDOs are over-expressed in cancer patients and have increasingly been associated with worse outcomes and a poor prognosis. Preclinical data have shown that combining IDO and checkpoint inhibition might be a valuable strategy to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. Currently, several IDO inhibitors have been evaluated in clinical trials, showing favorable pharmacokinetic profiles and promising efficacy. This review describes the mechanisms involved in IDO-mediated immune suppression and its role in cancer immune escape, focusing on the potential clinical application of IDO inhibitors as an immunotherapy strategy for cancer treatment.
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Towards Resolving the Pro- and Anti-Tumor Effects of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051388. [PMID: 29735912 PMCID: PMC5983651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We have postulated that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) drives the later, more lethal stages of some cancers when chronically activated by endogenous ligands. However, other studies have suggested that, under some circumstances, the AHR can oppose tumor aggression. Resolving this apparent contradiction is critical to the design of AHR-targeted cancer therapeutics. Molecular (siRNA, shRNA, AHR repressor, CRISPR-Cas9) and pharmacological (AHR inhibitors) approaches were used to confirm the hypothesis that AHR inhibition reduces human cancer cell invasion (irregular colony growth in 3D Matrigel cultures and Boyden chambers), migration (scratch wound assay) and metastasis (human cancer cell xenografts in zebrafish). Furthermore, these assays were used for a head-to-head comparison between AHR antagonists and agonists. AHR inhibition or knockdown/knockout consistently reduced human ER−/PR−/Her2− and inflammatory breast cancer cell invasion, migration, and metastasis. This was associated with a decrease in invasion-associated genes (e.g., Fibronectin, VCAM1, Thrombospondin, MMP1) and an increase in CDH1/E-cadherin, previously associated with decreased tumor aggression. Paradoxically, AHR agonists (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and/or 3,3′-diindolylmethane) similarly inhibited irregular colony formation in Matrigel and blocked metastasis in vivo but accelerated migration. These data demonstrate the complexity of modulating AHR activity in cancer while suggesting that AHR inhibitors, and, under some circumstances, AHR agonists, may be useful as cancer therapeutics.
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Cheong JE, Sun L. Targeting the IDO1/TDO2–KYN–AhR Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy – Challenges and Opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2018; 39:307-325. [PMID: 29254698 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 269] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Eun Cheong
- Center for Drug Discovery and Translational Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Lijun Sun
- Center for Drug Discovery and Translational Research, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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30
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Xue P, Fu J, Zhou Y. The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Tumor Immunity. Front Immunol 2018; 9:286. [PMID: 29487603 PMCID: PMC5816799 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an important cytosolic, ligand-dependent transcription factor. Emerging evidence suggests the promoting role of the AhR in the initiation, promotion, progression, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. Studies on various tumor types and tumor cell lines have shown high AhR expression, suggesting that AhR is activated constitutively in tumors and facilitates their growth. Interestingly, immune evasion has been recognized as an emerging hallmark feature of cancer. A connection between the AhR and immune system has been recognized, which has been suggested as an immunosuppressive effector on different types of immune cells. Certain cancers can escape immune recognition via AhR signaling pathways. This review discusses the role of the AhR in tumor immunity and its potential mechanism of action in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xue
- Children's Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinrong Fu
- Children's Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yufeng Zhou
- Children's Hospital and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
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Tkachenko A, Bermudez M, Irmer-Stooff S, Genkinger D, Henkler-Stephani F, Wolber G, Luch A. Nuclear transport of the human aryl hydrocarbon receptor and subsequent gene induction relies on its residue histidine 291. Arch Toxicol 2017; 92:1151-1160. [PMID: 29164305 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-2129-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor involved in the metabolism of physiological substances and xenobiotics, representing an interesting target in both toxicology and pharmacology. In this study, we investigated the ligand-dependent conjunction of nuclear import of the human AHR in living cells and target gene induction. Our findings strengthen the theory that the AHR triggers a precisely defined and rapid reaction upon binding to endogenous ligands, while the xenobiotic β-naphthoflavone only induces rather unspecific and slow effects. To better illuminate the ligand-mediated responses of the human AHR, we applied site-directed mutagenesis and identified histidine 291 as key residue for AHR functionality, essential for both nuclear import and target gene induction. Contrary, replacing histidine at position 291 by alanine did not affect nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling, showing that permanent endogenous import and ligand-induced import of the AHR into the nucleus are two independent and differently regulated processes. Combining these observations with our structural investigations using a homology model of the AHR-PAS B domain, we suggest a dual role of histidine 291: (1) a major role for shaping the ligand binding site including direct interactions with ligands and, (2) an essential role for the conformational dynamics of a PAS B loop, which most likely influences the association of the AHR with the AHR nuclear translocator through interference with their protein-protein interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tkachenko
- Department of Chemical and Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589, Berlin, Germany.
| | - M Bermudez
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2 + 4, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - S Irmer-Stooff
- Department of Chemical and Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589, Berlin, Germany
| | - D Genkinger
- Department of Chemical and Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589, Berlin, Germany
| | - F Henkler-Stephani
- Department of Chemical and Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Wolber
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2 + 4, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Luch
- Department of Chemical and Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589, Berlin, Germany
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32
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Role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in carcinogenesis and potential as an anti-cancer drug target. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:2497-2513. [PMID: 28508231 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1981-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) was initially identified as the receptor that binds and mediates the toxic effects induced by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and structurally related halogenated aromatics. Other toxic compounds including some polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons act through the AhR; however, during the last 25 years, it has become apparent that the AhR plays an essential role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Moreover, the scope of ligands that bind the AhR includes endogenous compounds such as multiple tryptophan metabolites, other endogenous biochemicals, pharmaceuticals and health-promoting phytochemicals including flavonoids, indole-3-carbinol and its metabolites. It has also been shown that like other receptors, the AhR is a drug target for multiple diseases including cancer, where both AhR agonists and antagonists effectively block many of the critical hallmarks of cancer in multiple tumor types. This review describes the anti-cancer activities of AhR ligands and demonstrates that it is time to separate the AhR from TCDD and exploit the potential of the AhR as a novel target for cancer chemotherapy.
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Ash PEA, Stanford EA, Al Abdulatif A, Ramirez-Cardenas A, Ballance HI, Boudeau S, Jeh A, Murithi JM, Tripodis Y, Murphy GJ, Sherr DH, Wolozin B. Dioxins and related environmental contaminants increase TDP-43 levels. Mol Neurodegener 2017; 12:35. [PMID: 28476168 PMCID: PMC5420162 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-017-0177-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a debilitating neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons and the accumulation of aggregated TAR DNA Binding Protein-43 (TDP-43, gene: TARDBP). Increasing evidence indicates that environmental factors contribute to the risk of ALS. Dioxins, related planar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are environmental contaminants that activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated, PAS family transcription factor. Recently, exposure to these toxicants was identified as a risk factor for ALS. Methods We examined levels of TDP-43 reporter activity, transcript and protein. Quantification was done using cell lines, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mouse brain. The target samples were treated with AHR agonists, including 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ, a potential endogenous ligand, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo(p)dioxin, and benzo(a)pyrene, an abundant carcinogen in cigarette smoke). The action of the agonists was inhibited by concomitant addition of AHR antagonists or by AHR-specific shRNA. Results We now report that AHR agonists induce up to a 3-fold increase in TDP-43 protein in human neuronal cell lines (BE-M17 cells), motor neuron differentiated iPSCs, and in murine brain. Chronic treatment with AHR agonists elicits over 2-fold accumulation of soluble and insoluble TDP-43, primarily because of reduced TDP-43 catabolism. AHR antagonists or AHR knockdown inhibits agonist-induced increases in TDP-43 protein and TARDBP transcription demonstrating that the ligands act through the AHR. Conclusions These results provide the first evidence that environmental AHR ligands increase TDP-43, which is the principle pathological protein associated with ALS. These results suggest novel molecular mechanisms through which a variety of prevalent environmental factors might directly contribute to ALS. The widespread distribution of dioxins, PCBs and PAHs is considered to be a risk factor for cancer and autoimmune diseases, but could also be a significant public health concern for ALS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13024-017-0177-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter E A Ash
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Stanford
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Ali Al Abdulatif
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA
| | | | - Heather I Ballance
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA
| | - Samantha Boudeau
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA
| | - Amanda Jeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA
| | - James M Murithi
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Yorghos Tripodis
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - George J Murphy
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - David H Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Benjamin Wolozin
- Department of Pharmacology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., R614, Boston, MA, 02118-2526, USA.
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Wang Z, Monti S, Sherr DH. The diverse and important contributions of the AHR to cancer and cancer immunity. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Safe S, Cheng Y, Jin UH. The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) as a Drug Target for Cancer Chemotherapy. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2017; 2:24-29. [PMID: 28459113 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2017.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is overexpressed in some patients with different tumor types, and the receptor can be a negative or positive prognostic factor. There is also evidence from both in vivo and in vitro cell culture models that the AhR can exhibit tumor-specific pro-oncogenic and tumor suppressor-like functions and therefore can be treated with AhR antagonists or agonists, respectively. Successful clinical applications of AhR ligands will require the synthesis and development of selective AhR modulators (SAhRMs) with tumor-specific AhR agonist or antagonist activity, and some currently available compounds such as indole-3-carbinol and diindolylmethane-(DIM) and synthetic AhR antagonists are potential drug candidates. There is also evidence that some AhR-active pharmaceuticals, including tranilast, flutamide, hydroxytamoxifen and omeprazole or their derivatives, may be effective AhR-dependent anticancer agents for single or combination cancer chemotherapies for treatment of breast and pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Yating Cheng
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Un-Ho Jin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
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Hanieh H, Mohafez O, Hairul-Islam VI, Alzahrani A, Bani Ismail M, Thirugnanasambantham K. Novel Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Agonist Suppresses Migration and Invasion of Breast Cancer Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167650. [PMID: 27907195 PMCID: PMC5132326 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the remarkable progress to fight against breast cancer, metastasis remains the dominant cause of treatment failure and recurrence. Therefore, control of invasiveness potential of breast cancer cells is crucial. Accumulating evidences suggest Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), a helix-loop-helix transcription factor, as a promising target to control migration and invasion in breast cancer cells. Thus, an Ahr-based exploration was performed to identify a new Ahr agonist with inhibitory potentials on cancer cell motility. METHODS For prediction of potential interactions between Ahr and candidate molecules, bioinformatics analysis was carried out. The interaction of the selected ligand with Ahr and its effects on migration and invasion were examined in vitro using the MDA-MB-231 and T47D cell lines. The silencing RNAs were transfected into cells by electroporation. Expressions of microRNAs (miRNAs) and coding genes were quantified by real-time PCR, and the protein levels were detected by western blot. RESULTS The in silico and in vitro results identified Flavipin as a novel Ahr agonist. It induces formation of Ahr/Ahr nuclear translocator (Arnt) heterodimer to promote the expression of cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp1a1). Migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 and T47D cells were inhibited with Flavipin treatment in an Ahr-dependent fashion. Interestingly, Flavipin suppressed the pro-metastatic factor SRY-related HMG-box4 (Sox4) by inducing miR-212/132 cluster. Moreover, Flavipin inhibited growth and adhesion of both cell lines by suppressing gene expressions of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and integrinα4 (ITGA4). CONCLUSION Taken together, the results introduce Flavipin as a novel Ahr agonist, and provide first evidences on its inhibitory effects on cancer cell motility, suggesting Flavipin as a candidate to control cell invasiveness in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Hanieh
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | - Omar Mohafez
- Biomedical Department, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Hofuf Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
- Biochemistry Department, College of Pharmacy Al-Azhar University Assiut, Egypt
| | - Villianur Ibrahim Hairul-Islam
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
- Pondicherry Centre For Biological Sciences, Jawahar Nagar, Pondicherry, India
| | - Abdullah Alzahrani
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Bani Ismail
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Hofuf Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
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Novikov O, Wang Z, Stanford EA, Parks AJ, Ramirez-Cardenas A, Landesman E, Laklouk I, Sarita-Reyes C, Gusenleitner D, Li A, Monti S, Manteiga S, Lee K, Sherr DH. An Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Amplification Loop That Enforces Cell Migration in ER-/PR-/Her2- Human Breast Cancer Cells. Mol Pharmacol 2016; 90:674-688. [PMID: 27573671 PMCID: PMC5074452 DOI: 10.1124/mol.116.105361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous ligand-activated aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) plays an important role in numerous biologic processes. As the known number of AHR-mediated processes grows, so too does the importance of determining what endogenous AHR ligands are produced, how their production is regulated, and what biologic consequences ensue. Consequently, our studies were designed primarily to determine whether ER−/PR−/Her2− breast cancer cells have the potential to produce endogenous AHR ligands and, if so, how production of these ligands is controlled. We postulated that: 1) malignant cells produce tryptophan-derived AHR ligand(s) through the kynurenine pathway; 2) these metabolites have the potential to drive AHR-dependent breast cancer migration; 3) the AHR controls expression of a rate-limiting kynurenine pathway enzyme(s) in a closed amplification loop; and 4) environmental AHR ligands mimic the effects of endogenous ligands. Data presented in this work indicate that primary human breast cancers, and their metastases, express high levels of AHR and tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO); representative ER−/PR−/Her2− cell lines express TDO and produce sufficient intracellular kynurenine and xanthurenic acid concentrations to chronically activate the AHR. TDO overexpression, or excess kynurenine or xanthurenic acid, accelerates migration in an AHR-dependent fashion. Environmental AHR ligands 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo[p]dioxin and benzo[a]pyrene mimic this effect. AHR knockdown or inhibition significantly reduces TDO2 expression. These studies identify, for the first time, a positive amplification loop in which AHR-dependent TDO2 expression contributes to endogenous AHR ligand production. The net biologic effect of AHR activation by endogenous ligands, which can be mimicked by environmental ligands, is an increase in tumor cell migration, a measure of tumor aggressiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Novikov
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Zhongyan Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Elizabeth A Stanford
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Ashley J Parks
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Alejandra Ramirez-Cardenas
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Esther Landesman
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Israa Laklouk
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Carmen Sarita-Reyes
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Daniel Gusenleitner
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Amy Li
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Stefano Monti
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Sara Manteiga
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - Kyongbum Lee
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
| | - David H Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., Z.W., E.A.S., A.J.P., A.R.-C., D.H.S.); Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts (O.N., E.A.S.); Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Biomedicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (D.G., A.L., S.Mo.); Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (E.L., I.L., C.S.-R.); and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts (S.Ma., K.L.)
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Stanford EA, Ramirez-Cardenas A, Wang Z, Novikov O, Alamoud K, Koutrakis P, Mizgerd JP, Genco CA, Kukuruzinska M, Monti S, Bais MV, Sherr DH. Role for the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Diverse Ligands in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Migration and Tumorigenesis. Mol Cancer Res 2016; 14:696-706. [PMID: 27130942 PMCID: PMC4987205 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-16-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Over 45,000 new cases of oral and pharyngeal cancers are diagnosed and account for over 8,000 deaths a year in the United States. An environmental chemical receptor, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), has previously been implicated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) initiation as well as in normal tissue-specific stem cell self-renewal. These previous studies inspired the hypothesis that the AhR plays a role in both the acquisition and progression of OSCC, as well as in the formation and maintenance of cancer stem-like cells. To test this hypothesis, AhR activity in two oral squamous cell lines was modulated with AhR prototypic, environmental and bacterial AhR ligands, AhR-specific inhibitors, and phenotypic, genomic and functional characteristics were evaluated. The data demonstrate that: (i) primary OSCC tissue expresses elevated levels of nuclear AhR as compared with normal tissue, (ii) AhR mRNA expression is upregulated in 320 primary OSCCs, (iii) AhR hyperactivation with several ligands, including environmental and bacterial ligands, significantly increases AhR activity, ALDH1 activity, and accelerates cell migration, (iv) AhR inhibition blocks the rapid migration of OSCC cells and reduces cell chemoresistance, (v) AhR knockdown inhibits tumorsphere formation in low adherence conditions, and (vi) AhR knockdown inhibits tumor growth and increases overall survival in vivo These data demonstrate that the AhR plays an important role in development and progression of OSCC, and specifically cancer stem-like cells. Prototypic, environmental, and bacterial AhR ligands may exacerbate OSCC by enhancing expression of these properties. IMPLICATIONS This study, for the first time, demonstrates the ability of diverse AhR ligands to regulate AhR activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells, as well as regulate several important characteristics of oral cancer stem cells, in vivo and in vitro Mol Cancer Res; 14(8); 696-706. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Stanford
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Zhongyan Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Olga Novikov
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts. Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Khalid Alamoud
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Petros Koutrakis
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph P Mizgerd
- Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Caroline A Genco
- Integrative Physiology and Integrative Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria Kukuruzinska
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stefano Monti
- Section of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Manish V Bais
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David H Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Stanford EA, Wang Z, Novikov O, Mulas F, Landesman-Bollag E, Monti S, Smith BW, Seldin DC, Murphy GJ, Sherr DH. The role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the development of cells with the molecular and functional characteristics of cancer stem-like cells. BMC Biol 2016; 14:20. [PMID: 26984638 PMCID: PMC4794823 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-016-0240-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-renewing, chemoresistant breast cancer stem cells are believed to contribute significantly to cancer invasion, migration and patient relapse. Therefore, the identification of signaling pathways that regulate the acquisition of stem-like qualities is an important step towards understanding why patients relapse and towards development of novel therapeutics that specifically target cancer stem cell vulnerabilities. Recent studies identified a role for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), an environmental carcinogen receptor implicated in cancer initiation, in normal tissue-specific stem cell self-renewal. These studies inspired the hypothesis that the AHR plays a role in the acquisition of cancer stem cell-like qualities. RESULTS To test this hypothesis, AHR activity in Hs578T triple negative and SUM149 inflammatory breast cancer cells were modulated with AHR ligands, shRNA or AHR-specific inhibitors, and phenotypic, genomic and functional stem cell-associated characteristics were evaluated. The data demonstrate that (1) ALDH(high) cells express elevated levels of Ahr and Cyp1b1 and Cyp1a1, AHR-driven genes, (2) AHR knockdown reduces ALDH activity by 80%, (3) AHR hyper-activation with several ligands, including environmental ligands, significantly increases ALDH1 activity, expression of stem cell- and invasion/migration-associated genes, and accelerates cell migration, (4) a significant correlation between Ahr or Cyp1b1 expression (as a surrogate marker for AHR activity) and expression of stem cell- and invasion/migration-associated gene sets is seen with genomic data obtained from 79 human breast cancer cell lines and over 1,850 primary human breast cancers, (5) the AHR interacts directly with Sox2, a master regulator of self-renewal; AHR ligands increase this interaction and nuclear SOX2 translocation, (6) AHR knockdown inhibits tumorsphere formation in low adherence conditions, (7) AHR inhibition blocks the rapid migration of ALDH(high) cells and reduces ALDH(high) cell chemoresistance, (8) ALDH(high) cells are highly efficient at initiating tumors in orthotopic xenografts, and (9) AHR knockdown inhibits tumor initiation and reduces tumor Aldh1a1, Sox2, and Cyp1b1 expression in vivo. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the AHR plays an important role in development of cells with cancer stem cell-like qualities and that environmental AHR ligands may exacerbate breast cancer by enhancing expression of these properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Stanford
- />Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 72 East Concord Street (R-408), Boston, Massachusetts 02118 USA
- />Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, 72 E. Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Zhongyan Wang
- />Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 72 East Concord Street (R-408), Boston, Massachusetts 02118 USA
| | - Olga Novikov
- />Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 72 East Concord Street (R-408), Boston, Massachusetts 02118 USA
- />Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, 72 E. Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Francesca Mulas
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Computational Biomedicine, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Esther Landesman-Bollag
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, 650 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Stefano Monti
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Computational Biomedicine, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Brenden W. Smith
- />Boston University Molecular and Translational Medicine Program, 72 E. Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, 650 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- />Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Center for Regenerative Medicine (CReM), 710 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - David C. Seldin
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, 650 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - George J. Murphy
- />Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, 650 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- />Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Center for Regenerative Medicine (CReM), 710 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - David H. Sherr
- />Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 72 East Concord Street (R-408), Boston, Massachusetts 02118 USA
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Quercetin-6-C-β-d-glucopyranoside, natural analog of quercetin exhibits anti-prostate cancer activity by inhibiting Akt-mTOR pathway via aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Biochimie 2015; 119:68-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Briolotti P, Chaloin L, Balaguer P, Da Silva F, Tománková V, Pascussi JM, Duret C, Fabre JM, Ramos J, Klieber S, Maurel P, Daujat-Chavanieu M, Gerbal-Chaloin S. Analysis of Glycogen Synthase Kinase Inhibitors That Regulate Cytochrome P450 Expression in Primary Human Hepatocytes by Activation of β-Catenin, Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Pregnane X Receptor Signaling. Toxicol Sci 2015; 148:261-75. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfv177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Shivanna S, Kolandaivelu K, Shashar M, Belghasim M, Al-Rabadi L, Balcells M, Zhang A, Weinberg J, Francis J, Pollastri MP, Edelman ER, Sherr DH, Chitalia VC. The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor is a Critical Regulator of Tissue Factor Stability and an Antithrombotic Target in Uremia. J Am Soc Nephrol 2015; 27:189-201. [PMID: 26019318 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2014121241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with CKD suffer high rates of thrombosis, particularly after endovascular interventions, yet few options are available to improve management and reduce thrombotic risk. We recently demonstrated that indoxyl sulfate (IS) is a potent CKD-specific prothrombotic metabolite that induces tissue factor (TF) in vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs), although the precise mechanism and treatment implications remain unclear. Because IS is an agonist of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), we first examined the relationship between IS levels and AHR-inducing activity in sera of patients with ESRD. IS levels correlated significantly with both vSMC AHR activity and TF activity. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that IS activates the AHR pathway in primary human aortic vSMCs, and further, that AHR interacts directly with and stabilizes functional TF. Antagonists directly targeting AHR enhanced TF ubiquitination and degradation and suppressed thrombosis in a postinterventional model of CKD and endovascular injury. Furthermore, AHR antagonists inhibited TF in a manner dependent on circulating IS levels. In conclusion, we demonstrated that IS regulates TF stability through AHR signaling and uncovered AHR as an antithrombotic target and AHR antagonists as a novel class of antithrombotics. Together, IS and AHR have potential as uremia-specific biomarkers and targets that may be leveraged as a promising theranostic platform to better manage the elevated thrombosis rates in patients with CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Shivanna
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kumaran Kolandaivelu
- Institute of Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Moshe Shashar
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mostafa Belghasim
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laith Al-Rabadi
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mercedes Balcells
- Institute of Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Biological Engineering Department, Institut Químic de Sarrià, Ramon Llull University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anqi Zhang
- Metabolomics Core, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Janice Weinberg
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jean Francis
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael P Pollastri
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Elazer R Edelman
- Institute of Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David H Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vipul C Chitalia
- Renal Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts;
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