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Kong S, Li J, Pan X, Zhao C, Li Y. Allicin regulates Sestrin2 ubiquitination to affect macrophage autophagy and senescence, thus inhibiting the growth of hepatoma cells. Tissue Cell 2024; 88:102398. [PMID: 38728949 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102398] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allicin regulates macrophage autophagy and senescence, and inhibits hepatoma cell growth. This study investigated the mechanism by which allicin inhibits the growth of hepatoma cells. METHODS Hepa1-6 mouse hepatoma cells were subcutaneously injected into C57BL/6 J mice to construct a tumor transplantation model. Macrophages were cultured with the supernatant of hepatoma cells to construct a cell model. The levels of mRNA and proteins and the level of Sestrin2 ubiquitination were measured by RTqPCR, immunofluorescence and Western blotting. The levels of autophagy-related factors and the activity of senescence-associated β-galactosidase were determined by kits, and protein stability was detected by cycloheximide (CHX) tracking. RESULTS Data analysis of clinical samples revealed that RBX1 was highly expressed in tumor tissues, while Sestrin2 was expressed at low levels in tumor tissues. Allicin can promote the expression of the autophagy-related proteins LC3 and Beclin-1 in tumor macrophages and inhibit the expression of the aging-related proteins p16 and p21, thus promoting autophagy in macrophages and inhibiting cell senescence. Moreover, allicin can inhibit the expression of RBX1, thereby reducing the ubiquitination of Sestrin2, enhancing the stability of Sestrin2, activating autophagy in tumor macrophages and inhibiting senescence. In addition, allicin treatment inhibited the proliferation and migration of hepatoma carcinoma cells cocultured with macrophages and significantly improved the development of liver cancer in mice. CONCLUSION Allicin can affect the autophagy of macrophages and restrain the growth of hepatoma cells by regulating the ubiquitination of Sestrin2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujia Kong
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Jiaxun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Xin Pan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Yanwen Li
- Intensive Care Unit, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China.
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2
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Cheng H, Long J, Su J, Chu J, Wang M, Li Q. Mechanism of Paris polyphylla saponin II inducing autophagic to inhibit angiogenesis of cervical cancer. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:3179-3194. [PMID: 37906274 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02794-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Paris polyphylla saponin II (PPII) has good biological activity in inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. However, the mechanism of its action is still unclear. This study first observed the inhibitory effect of PPII on cervical cancer cells (Hela) through the establishment of MTT and nude mouse subcutaneous transplantation tumor models. Afterwards, then, we collected Hela cell supernatant for culturing HUVEC cells and treated it with PPII. Observe the invasion, migration, and lumen formation ability of drugs through Transwell, cell scratch test, and angiogenesis experiment. MDC staining was used to observe positive staining in the perinuclear area, AO staining was used to observe acidic areas, and transmission electron microscopy staining was used to observe ultrastructure and autophagy. In addition, the effects of PPII on autophagy- and angiogenesis-related protein expression were detected by Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Finally, HUVECs were treated with autophagy inhibitors 3-MA, CQ, and PI3K inhibitor LY294002, respectively. The results showed that the autophagy level of cells treated with PPII was significantly increased. In addition, adding autophagy inhibitors can effectively inhibit angiogenesis in cervical cancer. Further research suggests that PPII induces autophagy in HUVEC cells by regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby affecting angiogenesis and inhibiting Hela cell proliferation, lumen formation, invasion, and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China.
- Department of Experimental Center for Scientific Research, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
| | - Jiao Long
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Jingjing Su
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Jing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Qinglin Li
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Meishan Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230038, China.
- Department of Experimental Center for Scientific Research, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
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3
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Wang G, Jiang X, Torabian P, Yang Z. Investigating autophagy and intricate cellular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma: Emphasis on cell death mechanism crosstalk. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216744. [PMID: 38431037 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as a formidable global health challenge due to its prevalence, marked by high mortality and morbidity rates. This cancer type exhibits a multifaceted etiology, prominently linked to viral infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and genomic mutations. The inherent heterogeneity of HCC, coupled with its proclivity for developing drug resistance, presents formidable obstacles to effective therapeutic interventions. Autophagy, a fundamental catabolic process, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, responding to stressors such as nutrient deprivation. In the context of HCC, tumor cells exploit autophagy, either augmenting or impeding its activity, thereby influencing tumorigenesis. This comprehensive review underscores the dualistic role of autophagy in HCC, acting as both a pro-survival and pro-death mechanism, impacting the trajectory of tumorigenesis. The anti-carcinogenic potential of autophagy is evident in its ability to enhance apoptosis and ferroptosis in HCC cells. Pertinently, dysregulated autophagy fosters drug resistance in the carcinogenic context. Both genomic and epigenetic factors can regulate autophagy in HCC progression. Recognizing the paramount importance of autophagy in HCC progression, this review introduces pharmacological compounds capable of modulating autophagy-either inducing or inhibiting it, as promising avenues in HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Department of Interventional, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Xiaodi Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110020, PR China
| | - Pedram Torabian
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada; Department of Medical Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4Z6, Canada.
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China.
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4
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Tiwari M, Srivastava P, Abbas S, Jegatheesan J, Ranjan A, Sharma S, Maurya VP, Saxena AK, Sharma LK. Emerging Role of Autophagy in Governing Cellular Dormancy, Metabolic Functions, and Therapeutic Responses of Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2024; 13:447. [PMID: 38474411 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050447] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumors are composed of heterogeneous populations of dysregulated cells that grow in specialized niches that support their growth and maintain their properties. Tumor heterogeneity and metastasis are among the major hindrances that exist while treating cancer patients, leading to poor clinical outcomes. Although the factors that determine tumor complexity remain largely unknown, several genotypic and phenotypic changes, including DNA mutations and metabolic reprograming provide cancer cells with a survival advantage over host cells and resistance to therapeutics. Furthermore, the presence of a specific population of cells within the tumor mass, commonly known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), is thought to initiate tumor formation, maintenance, resistance, and recurrence. Therefore, these CSCs have been investigated in detail recently as potential targets to treat cancer and prevent recurrence. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in CSC proliferation, self-renewal, and dormancy may provide important clues for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Autophagy, a catabolic process, has long been recognized to regulate various physiological and pathological processes. In addition to regulating cancer cells, recent studies have identified a critical role for autophagy in regulating CSC functions. Autophagy is activated under various adverse conditions and promotes cellular maintenance, survival, and even cell death. Thus, it is intriguing to address whether autophagy promotes or inhibits CSC functions and whether autophagy modulation can be used to regulate CSC functions, either alone or in combination. This review describes the roles of autophagy in the regulation of metabolic functions, proliferation and quiescence of CSCs, and its role during therapeutic stress. The review further highlights the autophagy-associated pathways that could be used to regulate CSCs. Overall, the present review will help to rationalize various translational approaches that involve autophagy-mediated modulation of CSCs in controlling cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Tiwari
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Science, Patna 801507, India
| | - Pransu Srivastava
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Science, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Sabiya Abbas
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Science, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Janani Jegatheesan
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Science, Patna 801507, India
| | - Ashish Ranjan
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Science, Patna 801507, India
| | - Sadhana Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Science, Patna 801507, India
| | - Ved Prakash Maurya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Ajit Kumar Saxena
- Department of Pathology/Lab Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Science, Patna 801507, India
| | - Lokendra Kumar Sharma
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Science, Lucknow 226014, India
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5
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Ding X, Li X, Jiang Y, Li Y, Li H, Shang L, Feng G, Zhang H, Xu Z, Yang L, Li B, Zhao RC. RGS20 promotes non-small cell lung carcinoma proliferation via autophagy activation and inhibition of the PKA-Hippo signaling pathway. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:93. [PMID: 38431606 PMCID: PMC10909273 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03282-9] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Novel therapeutic targets are urgently needed for treating drug-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and overcoming drug resistance to molecular-targeted therapies. Regulator of G protein signaling 20 (RGS20) is identified as an upregulated factor in many cancers, yet its specific role and the mechanism through which RGS20 functions in NSCLC remain unclear. Our study aimed to identify the role of RGS20 in NSCLC prognosis and delineate associated cellular and molecular pathways. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and lung cancer tissue microarray were used to verify the expression of RGS20 between NSCLC patients. CCK8 and cell cloning were conducted to determine the proliferation ability of H1299 and Anip973 cells in vitro. Furthermore, Transcriptome sequencing was performed to show enrichment genes and pathways. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the translocation changes of YAP to nucleus. Western blotting demonstrated different expressions of autophagy and the Hippo-PKA signal pathway. In vitro and in vivo experiments verified whether overexpression of RGS20 affect the proliferation and autophagy of NSCLC through regulating the Hippo pathway. RESULTS The higher RGS20 expression was found to be significantly correlated with a poorer five-year survival rate. Further, RGS20 accelerated cell proliferation by increasing autophagy. Transcriptomic sequencing suggested the involvement of the Hippo signaling pathway in the action of RGS20 in NSCLC. RGS20 activation reduced YAP phosphorylation and facilitated its nuclear translocation. Remarkably, inhibiting Hippo signaling with GA-017 promoted cell proliferation and activated autophagy in RGS20 knock-down cells. However, forskolin, a GPCR activator, increased YAP phosphorylation and reversed the promoting effect of RGS20 in RGS20-overexpressing cells. Lastly, in vivo experiments further confirmed role of RGS20 in aggravating tumorigenicity, as its overexpression increased NSCLC cell proliferation. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that RGS20 drives NSCLC cell proliferation by triggering autophagy via the inhibition of PKA-Hippo signaling. These insights support the role of RGS20 as a promising novel molecular marker and a target for future targeted therapies in lung cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Ding
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoxia Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanxia Jiang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujun Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lipeng Shang
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guilin Feng
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Huhu Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ziyuan Xu
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lina Yang
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Bing Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Marakovits C, Francis H. Unraveling the complexities of fibrosis and ductular reaction in liver disease: pathogenesis, mechanisms, and therapeutic insights. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C698-C706. [PMID: 38105754 PMCID: PMC11193454 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00486.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Ductular reaction and fibrosis are hallmarks of many liver diseases including primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, biliary atresia, alcoholic liver disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Liver fibrosis is the accumulation of extracellular matrix often caused by excess collagen deposition by myofibroblasts. Ductular reaction is the proliferation of bile ducts (which are composed of cholangiocytes) during liver injury. Many other cells including hepatic stellate cells, hepatocytes, hepatic progenitor cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and immune cells contribute to ductular reaction and fibrosis by either directly or indirectly interacting with myofibroblasts and cholangiocytes. This review summarizes the recent findings in cellular links between ductular reaction and fibrosis in numerous liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinn Marakovits
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Heather Francis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Department of Research, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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7
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Cuesta ÁM, Palao N, Bragado P, Gutierrez-Uzquiza A, Herrera B, Sánchez A, Porras A. New and Old Key Players in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17152. [PMID: 38138981 PMCID: PMC10742790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer represents a major health problem worldwide with growing incidence and high mortality, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most frequent. Hepatocytes are likely the cellular origin of most HCCs through the accumulation of genetic alterations, although hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) might also be candidates in specific cases, as discussed here. HCC usually develops in a context of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, although the role of fibrosis is controversial. The interplay between hepatocytes, immune cells and hepatic stellate cells is a key issue. This review summarizes critical aspects of the liver tumor microenvironment paying special attention to platelets as new key players, which exert both pro- and anti-tumor effects, determined by specific contexts and a tight regulation of platelet signaling. Additionally, the relevance of specific signaling pathways, mainly HGF/MET, EGFR and TGF-β is discussed. HGF and TGF-β are produced by different liver cells and platelets and regulate not only tumor cell fate but also HPCs, inflammation and fibrosis, these being key players in these processes. The role of C3G/RAPGEF1, required for the proper function of HGF/MET signaling in HCC and HPCs, is highlighted, due to its ability to promote HCC growth and, regulate HPC fate and platelet-mediated actions on liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel M. Cuesta
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Palao
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Gutierrez-Uzquiza
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Porras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Abstract
Maintenance of protein homeostasis and organelle integrity and function is critical for cellular homeostasis and cell viability. Autophagy is the principal mechanism that mediates the delivery of various cellular cargoes to lysosomes for degradation and recycling. A myriad of studies demonstrate important protective roles for autophagy against disease. However, in cancer, seemingly opposing roles of autophagy are observed in the prevention of early tumour development versus the maintenance and metabolic adaptation of established and metastasizing tumours. Recent studies have addressed not only the tumour cell intrinsic functions of autophagy, but also the roles of autophagy in the tumour microenvironment and associated immune cells. In addition, various autophagy-related pathways have been described, which are distinct from classical autophagy, that utilize parts of the autophagic machinery and can potentially contribute to malignant disease. Growing evidence on how autophagy and related processes affect cancer development and progression has helped guide efforts to design anticancer treatments based on inhibition or promotion of autophagy. In this Review, we discuss and dissect these different functions of autophagy and autophagy-related processes during tumour development, maintenance and progression. We outline recent findings regarding the role of these processes in both the tumour cells and the tumour microenvironment and describe advances in therapy aimed at autophagy processes in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayanta Debnath
- Department of Pathology and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Noor Gammoh
- MRC Institute of Genetics & Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Kevin M Ryan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK.
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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He YH, Pan JX, Xu LM, Gu T, Chen YW. Ductular reaction in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: When Macbeth is perverted. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:725-740. [PMID: 37397935 PMCID: PMC10308290 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i6.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease is the leading cause of chronic liver diseases defined as a disease spectrum comprising hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatic carcinoma. NASH, characterized by hepatocyte injury, steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, is associated with NAFLD prognosis. Ductular reaction (DR) is a common compensatory reaction associated with liver injury, which involves the hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs), hepatic stellate cells, myofibroblasts, inflammatory cells (such as macrophages), and their secreted substances. Recently, several studies have shown that the extent of DR parallels the stage of NASH and fibrosis. This review summarizes previous research on the correlation between DR and NASH, the potential interplay mechanism driving HPC differentiation, and NASH progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Huan He
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jia-Xing Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ting Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yuan-Wen Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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10
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Sinha S, Aizawa S, Nakano Y, Rialdi A, Choi HY, Shrestha R, Pan SQ, Chen Y, Li M, Kapelanski-Lamoureux A, Yochum G, Sher L, Monga SP, Lazaris A, Machida K, Karin M, Guccione E, Tsukamoto H. Hepatic stellate cell stearoyl co-A desaturase activates leukotriene B4 receptor 2 - β-catenin cascade to promote liver tumorigenesis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2651. [PMID: 37156770 PMCID: PMC10167314 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38406-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the 3rd most deadly malignancy. Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSC) give rise to cancer-associated fibroblasts in HCC and are considered a potential therapeutic target. Here we report that selective ablation of stearoyl CoA desaturase-2 (Scd2) in aHSC globally suppresses nuclear CTNNB1 and YAP1 in tumors and tumor microenvironment and prevents liver tumorigenesis in male mice. Tumor suppression is associated with reduced leukotriene B4 receptor 2 (LTB4R2) and its high affinity oxylipin ligand, 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (12-HHTrE). Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of LTB4R2 recapitulates CTNNB1 and YAP1 inactivation and tumor suppression in culture and in vivo. Single cell RNA sequencing identifies a subset of tumor-associated aHSC expressing Cyp1b1 but no other 12-HHTrE biosynthetic genes. aHSC release 12-HHTrE in a manner dependent on SCD and CYP1B1 and their conditioned medium reproduces the LTB4R2-mediated tumor-promoting effects of 12-HHTrE in HCC cells. CYP1B1-expressing aHSC are detected in proximity of LTB4R2-positive HCC cells and the growth of patient HCC organoids is blunted by LTB4R2 antagonism or knockdown. Collectively, our findings suggest aHSC-initiated 12-HHTrE-LTB4R2-CTNNB1-YAP1 pathway as a potential HCC therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Sinha
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Satoka Aizawa
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Nakano
- Laboratory of Cell Growth and Differentiation, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0022, Japan
| | - Alexander Rialdi
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hye Yeon Choi
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Rajan Shrestha
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Stephanie Q Pan
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Yibu Chen
- USC Libraries Bioinformatics Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Meng Li
- USC Libraries Bioinformatics Services of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | | | - Gregory Yochum
- Department of Surgery, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Linda Sher
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Satdarshan Paul Monga
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburg School of Medicine, Pittsburg, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Anthoula Lazaris
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Keigo Machida
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Michael Karin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ernesto Guccione
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hess Center for Science and Medicine, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA.
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11
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Gromowski T, Lukacs-Kornek V, Cisowski J. Current view of liver cancer cell-of-origin and proposed mechanisms precluding its proper determination. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:3. [PMID: 36609378 PMCID: PMC9824961 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma are devastating primary liver cancers with increasing prevalence in many parts of the world. Despite intense investigation, many aspects of their biology are still largely obscure. For example, numerous studies have tackled the question of the cell-of-origin of primary liver cancers using different experimental approaches; they have not, however, provided a clear and undisputed answer. Here, we will review the evidence from animal models supporting the role of all major types of liver epithelial cells: hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and their common progenitor as liver cancer cell-of-origin. Moreover, we will also propose mechanisms that promote liver cancer cell plasticity (dedifferentiation, transdifferentiation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition) which may contribute to misinterpretation of the results and which make the issue of liver cancer cell-of-origin particularly complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Gromowski
- grid.5522.00000 0001 2162 9631Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Veronika Lukacs-Kornek
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Experimental Immunology, University Hospital of the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jaroslaw Cisowski
- Department of General Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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12
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Mainz L, Sarhan MAFE, Roth S, Sauer U, Kalogirou C, Eckstein M, Gerhard-Hartmann E, Seibert HD, Voelker HU, Geppert C, Rosenwald A, Eilers M, Schulze A, Diefenbacher M, Rosenfeldt MT. Acute systemic knockdown of Atg7 is lethal and causes pancreatic destruction in shRNA transgenic mice. Autophagy 2022; 18:2880-2893. [PMID: 35343375 PMCID: PMC9673934 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2052588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The notion that macroautophagy/autophagy is a potentially attractive therapeutic target for a variety of diseases, including cancer, largely stems from pre-clinical mouse studies. Most of these examine the effects of irreversible and organ confined autophagy deletion using site specific Cre-loxP recombination of the essential autophagy regulating genes Atg7 or Atg5. Model systems with the ability to impair autophagy systemically and reversibly at all disease stages would allow a more realistic approach to evaluate the consequences of authophagy inhibition as a therapeutic concept and its potential side effects. Here, we present shRNA transgenic mice that via doxycycline (DOX) regulable expression of a highly efficient miR30-E-based shRNA enabled knockdown of Atg7 simultaneously in the majority of organs, with the brain and spleen being noteable exceptions. Induced animals deteriorated rapidly and experienced profound destruction of the exocrine pancreas, severe hypoglycemia and depletion of hepatic glycogen storages. Cessation of DOX application restored apparent health, glucose homeostasis and pancreatic integrity. In a similar Atg5 knockdown model we neither observed loss of pancreatic integrity nor diminished survival after DOX treatment, but identified histological changes consistent with steatohepatitis and hepatic fibrosis in the recovery period after termination of DOX. Regulable Atg7-shRNA mice are valuable tools that will enable further studies on the role of autophagy impairment at various disease stages and thereby help to evaluate the consequences of acute autophagy inhibition as a therapeutic concept.Abbreviations: ACTB: actin, beta; AMY: amylase complex; ATG4B: autophagy related 4B, cysteine peptidase; ATG5: autophagy related 5; ATG7: autophagy related 7; Cag: CMV early enhancer/chicken ACTB promoter; Col1a1: collagen, type I, alpha 1; Cre: cre recombinase; DOX: doxycycline; GCG: glucagon; GFP: green fluorescent protein; INS: insulin; LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; miR30-E: optimized microRNA backbone; NAFLD: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; NASH: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; PNLIP: pancreatic lipase; rtTA: reverse tetracycline transactivator protein; SQSTM1/p62: sequestome 1; TRE: tetracycline responsive element.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mainz
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mohamed A. F. E. Sarhan
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Roth
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Sauer
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Charis Kalogirou
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Markus Eckstein
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elena Gerhard-Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Helen-Desiree Seibert
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Ulrich Voelker
- Department of Pathology, Leopoldina Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum, Schweinfurt, Germany
| | - Carol Geppert
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Rosenwald
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Eilers
- Biocenter, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Almut Schulze
- Division of Metabolism and Microenvironment, Tumor Metabolism and Microenvironment, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Germany
| | - Markus Diefenbacher
- Biocenter, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mathias T. Rosenfeldt
- Institute of Pathology, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranke, Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,CONTACT Mathias T. Rosenfeldt Institute of Pathology – University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 2,97080Würzburg, Germany
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13
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Pakalniškytė D, Schönberger T, Strobel B, Stierstorfer B, Lamla T, Schuler M, Lenter M. Rosa26-LSL-dCas9-VPR: a versatile mouse model for tissue specific and simultaneous activation of multiple genes for drug discovery. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19268. [PMID: 36357523 PMCID: PMC9649745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23127-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgenic animals with increased or abrogated target gene expression are powerful tools for drug discovery research. Here, we developed a CRISPR-based Rosa26-LSL-dCas9-VPR mouse model for targeted induction of endogenous gene expression using different Adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid variants for tissue-specific gRNAs delivery. To show applicability of the model, we targeted low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), either individually or together. We induced up to ninefold higher expression of hepatocellular proteins. In consequence of LDLR upregulation, plasma LDL levels almost abolished, whereas upregulation of PCSK9 led to increased plasma LDL and cholesterol levels. Strikingly, simultaneous upregulation of both LDLR and PCSK9 resulted in almost unaltered LDL levels. Additionally, we used our model to achieve expression of all α1-Antitrypsin (AAT) gene paralogues simultaneously. These results show the potential of our model as a versatile tool for optimized targeted gene expression, alone or in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Pakalniškytė
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Tanja Schönberger
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Benjamin Strobel
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Birgit Stierstorfer
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Nonclinical Drug Safety Germany, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Thorsten Lamla
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Discovery Research Coordination, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Michael Schuler
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
| | - Martin Lenter
- grid.420061.10000 0001 2171 7500Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Drug Discovery Sciences, 88400 Biberach an der Riß, Germany
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14
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Koksal AR, Thevenot P, Aydin Y, Nunez K, Sandow T, Widmer K, Nayak L, Scott J, Delk M, Moehlen MW, Cohen AJ, Dash S. Impaired Autophagy Response in Hepatocellular Carcinomas Enriches Glypican-3 in Exosomes, Not in the Microvesicles. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:959-972. [PMID: 36105695 PMCID: PMC9464631 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s376210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim HCC development in liver cirrhosis is associated with impaired autophagy leading to increased production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) including exosomes and microvesicles. The goal of the study is to determine which of these particles is primarily involved in releasing of HCC-specific biomarker glypican-3 (GPC3) when autophagy is impaired. Methods Streptavidin-coated magnetic beads were coupled with either biotinylated CD63 or Annexin A1 antibodies. Coupled beads were incubated with EVs isolated from either HCC culture or serum. EVs captured by immuno-magnetic beads were then stained with FITC or PE fluorescent-conjugated antibodies targeting exosomes (CD81), and microvesicles (ARF6). The percentage of GPC3 enrichment in the microvesicles and exosomes was quantified by flow cytometry. The impact of autophagy modulation on GPC3 enrichment in exosomes and microvesicles was assessed by treating cells with Torin 1 and Bafilomycin A1. For clinical validation, GPC3 content was quantified in microvesicles, and exosomes were isolated from the serum of patients with a recent HCC diagnosis. Results The immune-magnetic bead assay distinguishes membrane-derived microvesicles from endosome-derived exosomes. The GPC3 expression was only seen in the CD63 beads group but not in the Annexin A1 beads group, confirming that in HCC, GPC3 is preferentially released through exosomes. Furthermore, we found that autophagy induction by Torin1 decreased GPC3-positive exosome secretion and decreased microvesicle release. Conversely, autophagy inhibition by Bafilomycin A1 increased the secretion of GPC3-positive exosomes. Serum analysis showed CD81+ve EVs were detected in exosomes and ARF6+ve vesicles were detected in microvesicles, suggesting that immunoaffinity assay is specific. The exosomal GPC3 enrichment was confirmed in isolated EVs from the serum of patients with HCC. The frequency of GPC3-positive exosomes was higher in patients with HCC (12.4%) compared to exosomes isolated from non-cirrhotic and healthy controls (3.7% and 1.3% respectively, p<0.001). Conclusion Our results show that GPC3 is enriched in the endolysosomal compartment and released in exosome fractions when autophagy is impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Riza Koksal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Paul Thevenot
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Institute of Translational Research, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Yucel Aydin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Kelley Nunez
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Institute of Translational Research, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tyler Sandow
- Department of Radiology, Multi-Organ Transplant Institute, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Kyle Widmer
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leela Nayak
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - John Scott
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Molly Delk
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Martin W Moehlen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ari J Cohen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Institute of Translational Research, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA.,Department of General Surgery, Multi-Organ Transplant Institute, Ochsner Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Srikanta Dash
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
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15
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Morishita H, Komatsu M. Role of autophagy in liver diseases. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2022.100594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Barthet VJA, Mrschtik M, Kania E, McEwan DG, Croft D, O'Prey J, Long JS, Ryan KM. DRAM-4 and DRAM-5 are compensatory regulators of autophagy and cell survival in nutrient-deprived conditions. FEBS J 2022; 289:3752-3769. [PMID: 35060334 PMCID: PMC9544835 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Macroautophagy is a membrane-trafficking process that delivers cytoplasmic material to lysosomes for degradation. The process preserves cellular integrity by removing damaged cellular constituents and can promote cell survival by providing substrates for energy production during hiatuses of nutrient availability. The process is also highly responsive to other forms of cellular stress. For example, DNA damage can induce autophagy and this involves up-regulation of the Damage-Regulated Autophagy Modulator-1 (DRAM-1) by the tumor suppressor p53. DRAM-1 belongs to an evolutionarily conserved protein family, which has five members in humans and we describe here the initial characterization of two members of this family, which we term DRAM-4 and DRAM-5 for DRAM-Related/Associated Member 4/5. We show that the genes encoding these proteins are not regulated by p53, but instead are induced by nutrient deprivation. Similar to other DRAM family proteins, however, DRAM-4 principally localizes to endosomes and DRAM-5 to the plasma membrane and both modulate autophagy flux when over-expressed. Deletion of DRAM-4 using CRISPR/Cas-9 also increased autophagy flux, but we found that DRAM-4 and DRAM-5 undergo compensatory regulation, such that deletion of DRAM-4 does not affect autophagy flux in the absence of DRAM-5. Similarly, deletion of DRAM-4 also promotes cell survival following growth of cells in the absence of amino acids, serum, or glucose, but this effect is also impacted by the absence of DRAM-5. In summary, DRAM-4 and DRAM-5 are nutrient-responsive members of the DRAM family that exhibit interconnected roles in the regulation of autophagy and cell survival under nutrient-deprived conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin J. A. Barthet
- Cancer Research UK Beatson InstituteGlasgowUK
- Institute of Cancer SciencesUniversity of GlasgowUK
| | | | - Elzbieta Kania
- Cancer Research UK Beatson InstituteGlasgowUK
- Institute of Cancer SciencesUniversity of GlasgowUK
| | | | - Dan Croft
- Cancer Research UK Beatson InstituteGlasgowUK
| | | | | | - Kevin M. Ryan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson InstituteGlasgowUK
- Institute of Cancer SciencesUniversity of GlasgowUK
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17
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Ercan C, Coto-Llerena M, Gallon J, Fourie L, Marinucci M, Hess GF, Vosbeck J, Taha-Mehlitz S, Boldanova T, Meier MA, Tzankov A, Matter MS, Hoffmann MHK, Di Tommaso L, von Flüe M, Ng CKY, Heim MH, Soysal SD, Terracciano LM, Kollmar O, Piscuoglio S. Genomic analysis of focal nodular hyperplasia with associated hepatocellular carcinoma unveils its malignant potential: a case report. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2022; 2:11. [PMID: 35603298 PMCID: PMC9053256 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-022-00074-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is typically considered a benign tumor of the liver without malignant potential. The co-occurrence of FNH and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been reported in rare cases. In this study we sought to investigate the clonal relationship between these lesions in a patient with FNH-HCC co-occurrence.
Methods
A 74-year-old female patient underwent liver tumor resection. The resected nodule was subjected to histologic analyses using hematoxylin and eosin stain and immunohistochemistry. DNA extracted from microdissected FNH and HCC regions was subjected to whole exome sequencing. Clonality analysis were performed using PyClone.
Results
Histologic analysis reveals that the nodule consists of an FNH and two adjoining HCC components with distinct histopathological features. Immunophenotypic characterization and genomic analyses suggest that the FNH is clonally related to the HCC components, and is composed of multiple clones at diagnosis, that are likely to have progressed to HCC through clonal selection and/or the acquisition of additional genetic events.
Conclusion
To the best of our knowledge, our work is the first study showing a clonal relationship between FNH and HCC. We show that FNH may possess the capability to undergo malignant transformation and to progress to HCC in very rare cases.
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18
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Wang X, Lee J, Xie C. Autophagy Regulation on Cancer Stem Cell Maintenance, Metastasis, and Therapy Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020381. [PMID: 35053542 PMCID: PMC8774167 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Certain types of cancer have higher relapse rates compared to others, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been shown as the main drivers of cancer relapse and cancer severity. This subpopulation of cells displays stem-like characteristics which bolster tumorigenesis along with metastasis and lead to poorer prognoses. Autophagy has been studied as a mechanism by which CSCs maintain stemness and acquire resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. The aim of this review is to condense and organize what has been recently published on the connection between cancer stem cells (CSCs) and autophagy. Multiple studies on autophagy have suggested that the pathway is a double-edged sword, which can either undermine or enhance CSC characteristics depending on interactions with different pathways. Thus, future research should investigate regulation of autophagy in combination with traditional cancer therapies as a possible method to effectively eliminate CSCs and minimize cancer relapse. Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subset of the tumor population that play critical roles in tumorigenicity, metastasis, and relapse. A key feature of CSCs is their resistance to numerous therapeutic strategies which include chemotherapy, radiation, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. In recent years, there is a growing body of literature that suggests a link between CSC maintenance and autophagy, a mechanism to recycle intracellular components during moments of environmental stress, especially since CSCs thrive in a tumor microenvironment that is plagued with hypoxia, acidosis, and lack of nutrients. Autophagy activation has been shown to aid in the upkeep of a stemness state along with bolstering resistance to cancer treatment. However, recent studies have also suggested that autophagy is a double-edged sword with anti-tumorigenic properties under certain circumstances. This review summarizes and integrates what has been published in the literature in terms of what role autophagy plays in stemness maintenance of CSCs and suggests that there is a more complex interplay between autophagy and apoptosis which involves multiple pathways of regulation. Future cancer therapy strategies are needed to eradicate this resistant subset of the cell population through autophagy regulation.
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19
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Vinogradskaya GR, Ivanov AV, Kushch AA. Mechanisms of Survival of Cytomegalovirus-Infected Tumor Cells. Mol Biol 2022; 56:668-683. [PMID: 36217337 PMCID: PMC9534468 DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322050132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) DNA and proteins are often detected in malignant tumors, warranting studies of the role that HCMV plays in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. HCMV proteins were shown to regulate the key processes involved in tumorigenesis. While HCMV as an oncogenic factor just came into focus, its ability to promote tumor progression is generally recognized. The review discusses the viral factors and cell molecular pathways that affect the resistance of cancer cells to therapy. CMV inhibits apoptosis of tumor cells, that not only promotes tumor progression, but also reduces the sensitivity of cells to antitumor therapy. Autophagy was found to facilitate either cell survival or cell death in different tumor cells. In leukemia cells, HCMV induces a "protective" autophagy that suppresses apoptosis. Viral factors that mediate drug resistance and their interactions with key cell death pathways are necessary to further investigate in order to develop agents that can restore the tumor sensitivity to anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. R. Vinogradskaya
- Konstantinov St. Petersburg Institute of Nuclear Physics, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, 188300 Gatchina, Leningrad oblast Russia
| | - A. V. Ivanov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - A. A Kushch
- Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 123098 Moscow, Russia
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20
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Fu J, Zhang Q, Wu Z, Hong C, Zhu C. Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals a Sex-Dimorphic Influence of GAT-2 on Murine Liver Function. Front Nutr 2021; 8:751388. [PMID: 34604287 PMCID: PMC8481587 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.751388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows that the γ-amino butyric acid (GABA)ergic system affects the functions of different organs, and liver is one of the most sex-dimorphic organs in animals. However, whether and how the GABAergic system influences liver function in a sex-specific manner at the intrinsic molecular level remains elusive. In this study, firstly, we find that the levels of GABA are significantly increased in the livers of female mice with GABA transporter (GAT)-2 deficiency (KO) whereas it only slightly increased in male GAT-2 KO mice. Apart from the amino acid profiles, the expressions of toll-like receptors (TLRs) also differ in the livers of female and male KO mice. Moreover, RNA-seq results show 2,227 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in which 1,030 are upregulated whereas 1,197 that are downregulated in the livers of female KO mice. Notably, oxidative phosphorylation, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Huntington's disease, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathways are highly enriched by GAT-2 deficiency, indicating that these pathways probably meditate the effects of GAT-2 on female liver functions, on the other hand, only 1,233 DEGs, including 474 are upregulated and 759 are downregulated in the livers of male KO mice. Interestingly, retinol metabolism, PPAR signaling pathway, and tuberculosis pathways are substantially enriched by GAT-2 deficiency, suggesting that these pathways may be responsible for the effects of GAT-2 on male liver functions. Collectively, our results reveal the sex-dimorphic effects of GAT-2 in guiding liver functions, and we propose that targeting the GABAergic system (e.g., GATs) in a sex-specific manner could provide previously unidentified therapeutic opportunities for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingzhuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zebiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changming Hong
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congrui Zhu
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
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Kiourtis C, Wilczynska A, Nixon C, Clark W, May S, Bird TG. Specificity and off-target effects of AAV8-TBG viral vectors for the manipulation of hepatocellular gene expression in mice. Biol Open 2021; 10:271899. [PMID: 34435198 PMCID: PMC8487635 DOI: 10.1242/bio.058678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice are a widely used pre-clinical model system in large part due to their potential for genetic manipulation. The ability to manipulate gene expression in specific cells under temporal control is a powerful experimental tool. The liver is central to metabolic homeostasis and a site of many diseases, making the targeting of hepatocytes attractive. Adeno-associated virus 8 (AAV8) vectors are valuable instruments for the manipulation of hepatocellular gene expression. However, their off-target effects in mice have not been thoroughly explored. Here, we sought to identify the short-term off-target effects of AAV8 administration in mice. To do this, we injected C57BL/6J wild-type mice with either recombinant AAV8 vectors expressing Cre recombinase or control AAV8 vectors and characterised the changes in general health and in liver physiology, histology and transcriptomics compared to uninjected controls. We observed an acute and transient trend for reduction in homeostatic liver proliferation together with induction of the DNA damage marker γH2AX following AAV8 administration. The latter was enhanced upon Cre recombinase expression by the vector. Furthermore, we observed transcriptional changes in genes involved in circadian rhythm and response to infection. Notably, there were no additional transcriptomic changes upon expression of Cre recombinase by the AAV8 vector. Overall, there was no evidence of liver injury, and only mild T-cell infiltration was observed 14 days following AAV8 infection. These data advance the technique of hepatocellular genome editing through Cre-Lox recombination using Cre expressing AAV vectors, demonstrating their minimal effects on murine physiology and highlight the more subtle off target effects of these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Kiourtis
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK.,Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Ania Wilczynska
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK.,Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - William Clark
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Stephanie May
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Thomas G Bird
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK.,MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH164TJ, UK
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