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Rather TB, Parveiz I, Rashid G, Akhtar K, Mudassar S, Wani RA, Besina S, Haq RIU. "GLI1 Subcellular Localization and Overexpression as Prognostic Factors for Disease-Free Survival in Colorectal Carcinoma". J Gastrointest Cancer 2024; 55:1359-1379. [PMID: 39018008 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-024-01090-y] [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] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glioma-associated oncogene homolog-1 (GLI1) is amplified in human glioblastoma, and there is growing evidence suggesting its significant role in tumor development and metastasis. Our aim was to investigate the role of the GLI-1 gene in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) and its correlation with various clinicopathological features. Additionally, we examined the impact of the GLI-1 gene and other factors on the prognosis of CRC. METHODS We analyzed a total of 98 confirmed CRC cases and adjacent normal tissue controls. Patients suspected of having colon cancer underwent a colonoscopy and targeted biopsy, while those with rectal cancer underwent CT scans and MRI. GLI1 expression was detected using real-time PCR assay, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The GLI1 gene was observed to be overexpressed in tumor tissues at both the protein and mRNA levels (p < 0.05). In addition, GLI1 overexpression was significantly associated with various factors such as tumor invasion (T3/T4), presence of lymph nodes, lymph node metastasis (LNM), stage (III/IV), tumor site (colon), tumor size (≥ 3 cm), localization (nucleocytoplasmic), strong staining intensity and recurrence (p < 0.05). The results of survival analysis showed that the patients with overexpression of GLI1 had a significantly lower DFS rate which was 21 months compared to those with normal expression who had 31 months (p < 0.05). Moreover, individuals with early onset disease (15 months) were more likely to have cytoplasmic localization of the GLI1 gene as opposed to nucleo-cytoplasmic localization of GLI1 which presented late-onset disease( 23 months) (p < 0.05). Finally, Stage and PNI (p < 0.05) were found to independently affect outcomes of CRC according to Cox regression analysis. CONCLUSION High expression of GLI-1 in CRC is associated with adverse pathology and poor prognosis for patients. The correlation between cytoplasmic localization of GLI-1 and reduced disease-free survival holds potential for guiding prognosis and treatment. Further research is needed to develop strategies targeting GLI-1 for improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen Bilal Rather
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Ishrat Parveiz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Gowhar Rashid
- Department of Medical Lab Technology, Amity Medical School Haryana, Amity University Haryana, Gurgaon, 125001, India
| | - Kulsum Akhtar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Syed Mudassar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India.
| | - Rauf A Wani
- Department of General Surgery, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Syed Besina
- Department of Pathology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Rather Izhar Ul Haq
- Mycoplasma Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Shuhama, Alusteng, Srinagar, 190006, Bengaluru, India
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Abu Rabe D, Chdid L, Lamson DR, Laudeman CP, Tarpley M, Elsayed N, Smith GR, Zheng W, Dixon MS, Williams KP. Identification of Novel GANT61 Analogs with Activity in Hedgehog Functional Assays and GLI1-Dependent Cancer Cells. Molecules 2024; 29:3095. [PMID: 38999049 PMCID: PMC11243198 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133095] [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: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of hedgehog (Hh) signaling has been implicated in various cancers. Current FDA-approved inhibitors target the seven-transmembrane receptor Smoothened, but resistance to these drugs has been observed. It has been proposed that a more promising strategy to target this pathway is at the GLI1 transcription factor level. GANT61 was the first small molecule identified to directly suppress GLI-mediated activity; however, its development as a potential anti-cancer agent has been hindered by its modest activity and aqueous chemical instability. Our study aimed to identify novel GLI1 inhibitors. JChem searches identified fifty-two compounds similar to GANT61 and its active metabolite, GANT61-D. We combined high-throughput cell-based assays and molecular docking to evaluate these analogs. Five of the fifty-two GANT61 analogs inhibited activity in Hh-responsive C3H10T1/2 and Gli-reporter NIH3T3 cellular assays without cytotoxicity. Two of the GANT61 analogs, BAS 07019774 and Z27610715, reduced Gli1 mRNA expression in C3H10T1/2 cells. Treatment with BAS 07019774 significantly reduced cell viability in Hh-dependent glioblastoma and lung cancer cell lines. Molecular docking indicated that BAS 07019774 is predicted to bind to the ZF4 region of GLI1, potentially interfering with its ability to bind DNA. Our findings show promise in developing more effective and potent GLI inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Abu Rabe
- INBS PhD Program, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Lhoucine Chdid
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - David R Lamson
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Christopher P Laudeman
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Michael Tarpley
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Naglaa Elsayed
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Ginger R Smith
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Weifan Zheng
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Maria S Dixon
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Kevin P Williams
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
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3
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Sun Q, Huang J, Tian J, Lv C, Li Y, Yu S, Liu J, Zhang J. Key Roles of Gli1 and Ihh Signaling in Craniofacial Development. Stem Cells Dev 2024; 33:251-261. [PMID: 38623785 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2024.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway orchestrates its influence through a dynamic interplay of Hh proteins, the cell surface receptor Ptch1, Smo, and Gli transcription factors, contributing to a myriad of developmental events. Indian Hedgehog (Ihh) and Gli zinc finger transcription factor 1 (Gli1) play crucial roles in developmental regulation within the Hh signaling pathway. Ihh regulates chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, and bone formation, impacting the development of cranial bones, cartilage, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Losing Ihh results in cranial bone malformation and decreased ossification and affects the formation of cranial base cartilage unions, TMJ condyles, and joint discs. Gli1 is predominantly expressed during early craniofacial development, and Gli1+ cells are identified as the primary mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for craniofacial bones, crucial for cell differentiation and morphogenesis. In addition, a complex mutual regulatory mechanism exists between Gli1 and Ihh, ensuring the normal function of the Hh signaling pathway by directly or indirectly regulating each other's expression levels. And the interaction between Ihh and Gli1 significantly impacts the normal development of craniofacial tissues. This review summarizes the pivotal roles of Gli1 and Ihh in the intricate landscape of mammalian craniofacial development and outlines the molecular regulatory mechanisms and intricate interactions governing the growth of bone and cartilage exhibited by Gli1 and Ihh, which provides new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for related diseases or researches of tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Jingjun Tian
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Changhai Lv
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Yanhong Li
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Siyuan Yu
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, Republic of China
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Wu Y, Guo W, Wang T, Liu Y, Mullor MDMR, Rodrìguez RA, Zhao S, Wei R. The comprehensive landscape of prognosis, immunity, and function of the GLI family by pan-cancer and single-cell analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:5123-5148. [PMID: 38498906 PMCID: PMC11006459 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers. However, the roles of the downstream GLI family (GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3) in tumorigenesis remain elusive. This study aimed to unravel the genetic alterations of GLI1/2/3 in cancer and their association with the immune microenvironment and related signaling pathways. Firstly, we evaluated the expression profiles of GLI1/2/3 in different cancer types, analyzed their prognostic and predictive values, and assessed their correlation with tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Secondly, we explored the relationships between GLI1/2/3 and genetic mutations, epigenetic modifications, and clinically relevant drugs. Finally, we performed enrichment analysis to decipher the underlying mechanisms of GLI1/2/3 in cancer initiation and progression. Our results revealed that the expression levels of GLI1/2/3 were positively correlated in most cancer tissues, suggesting a cooperative role of these factors in tumorigenesis. We also identified tissue-specific expression patterns of GLI1/2/3, which may reflect the distinct functions of these factors in different cell types. Furthermore, GLI1/2/3 expression displayed significant associations with poor prognosis in several cancers, indicating their potential as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Importantly, we found that GLI1/2/3 modulated the immune microenvironment by regulating the recruitment, activation, and polarization of cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and macrophages. Additionally, functional enrichment analyses indicated that GLI1/2/3 are involved in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Together, our findings shed new light on the roles of GLI1/2/3 in tumorigenesis and provide a potential basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting GLI-mediated signaling pathways in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinteng Wu
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Wenliang Guo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guigang City People’s Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi 537100, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | | | | | - Shijian Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650102, China
| | - Ruqiong Wei
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
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5
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Singh R, Ray A. Therapeutic potential of hedgehog signaling in advanced cancer types. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 386:49-80. [PMID: 38782501 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
In this chapter, we have made an attempt to elucidate the relevance of hedgehog signaling pathway in tumorigenesis. Here, we have described different types of hedgehog signaling (canonical and non-canonical) with emphasis on the different mechanisms (mutation-driven, autocrine, paracrine and reverse paracrine) it adopts during tumorigenesis. We have discussed the role of hedgehog signaling in regulating cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in both local and advanced cancer types, as reported in different studies based on preclinical and clinical models. We have specifically addressed the role of hedgehog signaling in aggressive neuroendocrine tumors as well. We have also elaborated on the studies showing therapeutic relevance of the inhibitors of hedgehog signaling in cancer. Evidence of the crosstalk of hedgehog signaling components with other signaling pathways and treatment resistance due to tumor heterogeneity have also been briefly discussed. Together, we have tried to put forward a compilation of the studies on therapeutic potential of hedgehog signaling in various cancers, specifically aggressive tumor types with a perspective into what is lacking and demands further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Singh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Anindita Ray
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States
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6
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Cloutier JM, Kerr DA. GLI1-Altered Mesenchymal Tumors. Surg Pathol Clin 2024; 17:13-24. [PMID: 38278602 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
GLI1-altered mesenchymal tumors comprise an emerging group of neoplasms characterized by fusions or amplifications involving GLI1, a gene that encodes a key regulator of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. In recent years, tumors with GLI1 alterations have been reported across a variety of anatomic sites and a broad age range. Although these tumors can exhibit a wide morphologic spectrum and a variable immunophenotype, they frequently present with monomorphic ovoid cells arranged in distinctive nests with a rich, arborizing vascular network. Recent evidence indicates that they have the potential to metastasize, which suggests that they may be best considered a sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Cloutier
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, USA. https://twitter.com/@JCloutierMD
| | - Darcy A Kerr
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, 1 Rope Ferry Road, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
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7
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Sinha S, Hembram KC, Chatterjee S. Targeting signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: A potential approach for developing novel anti-cancer therapeutics. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 385:157-209. [PMID: 38663959 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as prime players in the intricate landscape of cancer development, progression, and resistance to traditional treatments. These unique cellular subpopulations own the remarkable capability of self-renewal and differentiation, giving rise to the diverse cellular makeup of tumors and fostering their recurrence following conventional therapies. In the quest for developing more effective cancer therapeutics, the focus has now shifted toward targeting the signaling pathways that govern CSCs behavior. This chapter underscores the significance of these signaling pathways in CSC biology and their potential as pivotal targets for the development of novel chemotherapy approaches. We delve into several key signaling pathways essential for maintaining the defining characteristics of CSCs, including the Wnt, Hedgehog, Notch, JAK-STAT, NF-κB pathways, among others, shedding light on their potential crosstalk. Furthermore, we highlight the latest advancements in CSC-targeted therapies, spanning from promising preclinical models to ongoing clinical trials. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular aspects of CSC signaling pathways and their manipulation holds the prospective to revolutionize cancer treatment paradigms. This, in turn, could lead to more efficacious and personalized therapies with the ultimate goal of eradicating CSCs and enhancing overall patient outcomes. The exploration of CSC signaling pathways represents a key step towards a brighter future in the battle against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Sinha
- National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Subhajit Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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8
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Huang Y, Wang S, Zhang X, Yang C, Wang S, Cheng H, Ke A, Gao C, Guo K. Identification of Fasudil as a collaborator to promote the anti-tumor effect of lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting GLI2-mediated hedgehog signaling pathway. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107082. [PMID: 38280440 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Lenvatinib is a frontline tyrosine kinase inhibitor for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, just 25% of patients benefit from the treatment, and acquired resistance always develops. To date, there are neither effective medications to combat lenvatinib resistance nor accurate markers that might predict how well a patient would respond to the lenvatinib treatment. Thus, novel strategies to recognize and deal with lenvatinib resistance are desperately needed. In the current study, a robust Lenvatinib Resistance index (LRi) model to predict lenvatinib response status in HCC was first established. Subsequently, five candidate drugs (Mercaptopurine, AACOCF3, NU1025, Fasudil, and Exisulind) that were capable of reversing lenvatinib resistance signature were initially selected by performing the connectivity map (CMap) analysis, and fasudil finally stood out by conducting a series of cellular functional assays in vitro and xenograft mouse model. Transcriptomics revealed that the co-administration of lenvatinib and fasudil overcame lenvatinib resistance by remodeling the hedgehog signaling pathway. Mechanistically, the feedback activation of EGFR by lenvatinib led to the activation of the GLI2-ABCC1 pathway, which supported the HCC cell's survival and proliferation. Notably, co-administration of lenvatinib and fasudil significantly inhibited IHH, the upstream switch of the hedgehog pathway, to counteract GLI2 activation and finally enhance the effectiveness of lenvatinib. These findings elucidated a novel EGFR-mediated mechanism of lenvatinib resistance and provided a practical approach to overcoming drug resistance in HCC through meaningful drug repurposing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilan Huang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Siwei Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sikai Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongxia Cheng
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Aiwu Ke
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
| | - Chao Gao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
| | - Kun Guo
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
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Lavernia J, Claramunt R, Romero I, López-Guerrero JA, Llombart-Bosch A, Machado I. Soft Tissue Sarcomas with Chromosomal Alterations in the 12q13-15 Region: Differential Diagnosis and Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:432. [PMID: 38275873 PMCID: PMC10814159 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020432] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The chromosomal region 12q13-15 is rich in oncogenes and contains several genes involved in the pathogenesis of various mesenchymal neoplasms. Notable genes in this region include MDM2, CDK4, STAT6, DDIT3, and GLI1. Amplification of MDM2 and CDK4 genes can be detected in various mesenchymal and nonmesenchymal neoplasms. Therefore, gene amplification alone is not entirely specific for making a definitive diagnosis and requires the integration of clinical, radiological, morphological, and immunohistochemical findings. Neoplasms with GLI1 alterations may exhibit either GLI1 rearrangements or amplifications of this gene. Despite the diagnostic implications that the overlap of genetic alterations in neoplasms with changes in genes within the 12q13-15 region could create, the discovery of coamplifications of MDM2 with CDK4 and GLI1 offers new therapeutic targets in neoplasms with MDM2/CDK4 amplification. Lastly, it is worth noting that MDM2 or CDK4 amplification is not exclusive to mesenchymal neoplasms; this genetic alteration has also been observed in other epithelial neoplasms or melanomas. This suggests the potential use of MDM2 or CDK4 inhibitors in neoplasms where alterations in these genes do not aid the pathological diagnosis but may help identify potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we delve into the diagnosis and therapeutic implications of tumors with genetic alterations involving the chromosomal region 12q13-15, mainly MDM2, CDK4, and GLI1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Lavernia
- Oncology Unit, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, 46009 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Reyes Claramunt
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, 46009 Valencia, Spain; (R.C.); (J.A.L.-G.)
| | - Ignacio Romero
- Oncology Unit, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, 46009 Valencia, Spain;
| | - José Antonio López-Guerrero
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, 46009 Valencia, Spain; (R.C.); (J.A.L.-G.)
| | | | - Isidro Machado
- Pathology Department, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Pathology Department, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- CIBERONC Cancer, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Patologika Laboratory, Hospital Quiron-Salud, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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10
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Wu M, Mi J, Qu GX, Zhang S, Jian Y, Gao C, Cai Q, Liu J, Jiang J, Huang H. Role of Hedgehog Signaling Pathways in Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentiation. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241244943. [PMID: 38695366 PMCID: PMC11067683 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241244943] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have high self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation potentials and low immunogenicity, so they have attracted much attention in the field of regenerative medicine and have a promising clinical application. MSCs originate from the mesoderm and can differentiate not only into osteoblasts, cartilage, adipocytes, and muscle cells but also into ectodermal and endodermal cell lineages across embryonic layers. To design cell therapy for replacement of damaged tissues, it is essential to understand the signaling pathways, which have a major impact on MSC differentiation, as this will help to integrate the signaling inputs to initiate a specific lineage. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays a vital role in the development of various tissues and organs in the embryo. As a morphogen, Hh not only regulates the survival and proliferation of tissue progenitor and stem populations but also is a critical moderator of MSC differentiation, involving tri-lineage and across embryonic layer differentiation of MSCs. This review summarizes the role of Hh signaling pathway in the differentiation of MSCs to mesodermal, endodermal, and ectodermal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Wu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junwei Mi
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-xin Qu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Jian
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chu Gao
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingli Cai
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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11
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Kapteijn MY, Lanting VR, Kaptein FHJ, Guman NAM, Laghmani EH, Kuipers TB, Mei H, Goeman JJ, Mulder FI, van Duinen SG, Taphoorn MJB, Dirven L, Broekman MLD, van Es N, Klok FA, Koekkoek JAF, Versteeg HH, Buijs JT. RNA-sequencing to discover genes and signaling pathways associated with venous thromboembolism in glioblastoma patients: A case-control study. Thromb Res 2023; 232:27-34. [PMID: 37918288 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2023.10.018] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma patients are at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Tumor-intrinsic features are considered to play a role, but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. OBJECTIVES To identify tumor-expressed genes and signaling pathways that associate with glioblastoma-related VTE by using next generation RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq). METHODS The tumor gene expression profile of 23 glioblastoma patients with VTE and 23 glioblastoma patients without VTE was compared using an unpaired analysis. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) core analysis was performed on the top 50 differentially expressed genes to explore associated functions and pathways. Based on full RNA-Seq data, molecular glioblastoma subtypes were determined by performing cluster analysis. RESULTS Of the 19,327 genes, 1246 (6.4 %) were differentially expressed between glioblastoma patients with and without VTE (unadjusted P < 0.05). The most highly overexpressed gene was GLI1, a classical target gene in the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway (log2 fold change: 3.7; unadjusted P < 0.0001, adjusted P = 0.219). In line, Shh signaling was among the top canonical pathways and processes associated with VTE. The proportion of patients with the proneural/neural glioblastoma subtype was higher among those with VTE than controls. CONCLUSION Shh signaling may be involved in the development of glioblastoma-related VTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike Y Kapteijn
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Vincent R Lanting
- Amsterdam University Medical Center location University of Amsterdam, Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Tergooi Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Hilversum, the Netherlands
| | - Fleur H J Kaptein
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Noori A M Guman
- Amsterdam University Medical Center location University of Amsterdam, Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Tergooi Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Hilversum, the Netherlands
| | - El Houari Laghmani
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas B Kuipers
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jelle J Goeman
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Frits I Mulder
- Amsterdam University Medical Center location University of Amsterdam, Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Tergooi Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Hilversum, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd G van Duinen
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Marike L D Broekman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, Den Haag, the Netherlands
| | - Nick van Es
- Amsterdam University Medical Center location University of Amsterdam, Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frederikus A Klok
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Henri H Versteeg
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen T Buijs
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Div. of Thrombosis & Hemostasis, Dept. of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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12
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Xu L, Ji C, Yu T, Luo J. The effects of Gli1 and Gli2 on BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Tissue Cell 2023; 84:102168. [PMID: 37478645 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Diseases, such as bone nonunion with bone defects, osteoporosis, etc, seriously endanger people's quality of life, and bone tissue engineering based on mesenchymal stem cells is an effective method to solve such problems. Several studies have shown that BMP9 can effectively promote osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Gli1 and Gli2 were important transcription factors and play an important role in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. In this study, we investigated the role of Gli1 and Gli2 in BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. We found that inhibition of Gli1 and Gli2 weakened BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, and early osteogenic markers (alkaline phosphatase, ALP), late osteogenic markers (calcium salt deposition), the expression of pivotal osteogenic markers were attenuated, and inhibition of Gli1 and Gli2 weakened the expression of p-Smad1/5/8 and p-p38 induced by BMP9. In conclusion, our study shows that Gli1 and Gli2 play an important role in BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Hospital of Mianyang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China
| | - Caixia Ji
- Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Yu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinyong Luo
- Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Jia B, Jiang Y, Yao Y, Xu Y, Wang Y, Li T. Baicalin attenuates dexamethasone-induced apoptosis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by activating the hedgehog signaling pathway. Chin Med J (Engl) 2023; 136:1839-1847. [PMID: 36804262 PMCID: PMC10406080 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002113] [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: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perturbations in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) differentiation play an important role in steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH). At present, studies on SONFH concentrate upon the balance within BMSC osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. However, BMSC apoptosis as well as proliferation are important prerequisites in their differentiation. The hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway regulates bone cell apoptosis. Baicalin (BA), a well-known compound in traditional Chinese medicine, can affect the proliferation and apoptosis of numerous cell types via HH signaling. However, the potential role and mechanisms of BA on BMSCs are unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore the role of BA in dexamethasone (Dex)-induced BMSC apoptosis in this study. METHODS Primary BMSCs were treated with 10 -6 mol/L Dex alone or with 5.0 μmol/L, 10.0 μmol/L, or 50.0 μmol/L BA for 24 hours followed by co-treatment with 5.0 μmol/L, 10.0 μmol/L, or 50.0 μmol/L BA and 10 -6 mol/L Dex. Cell viability was assayed through the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Cell apoptosis was evaluated using Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide (PI) staining followed by flow cytometry. The imaging and counting, respectively, of Hochest 33342/PI-stained cells were used to assess the morphological characteristics and proportion of apoptotic cells. To quantify the apoptosis-related proteins (e.g., apoptosis regulator BAX [Bax], B-cell lymphoma 2 [Bcl-2], caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3) and HH signaling pathway proteins, western blotting was used. A HH-signaling pathway inhibitor was used to demonstrate that BA exerts its anti-apoptotic effects via the HH signaling pathway. RESULTS The results of CCK-8, Hoechst 33342/PI-staining, and flow cytometry showed that BA did not significantly promote cell proliferation (CCK-8: 0 μmol/L, 100%; 2.5 μmol/L, 98.58%; 5.0 μmol/L, 95.18%; 10.0 μmol/L, 98.11%; 50.0 μmol/L, 99.38%, F = 2.33, P > 0.05), but it did attenuate the effect of Dex on apoptosis (Hoechst 33342/PI-staining: Dex+ 50.0 μmol/L BA, 12.27% vs. Dex, 39.27%, t = 20.62; flow cytometry: Dex + 50.0 μmol/L BA, 12.68% vs. Dex, 37.43%, t = 11.56; Both P < 0.05). The results of western blotting analysis showed that BA reversed Dex-induced apoptosis by activating the HH signaling pathway, which down-regulated the expression of Bax, cleaved-caspase 3, and suppressor of fused (SUFU) while up-regulating Bcl-2, sonic hedgehog (SHH), and zinc finger protein GLI-1 (GLI-1) expression (Bax/Bcl-2: Dex+ 50.0 μmol/L BA, 1.09 vs. Dex, 2.76, t = 35.12; cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3: Dex + 50.0 μmol/L BA, 0.38 vs . Dex, 0.73, t = 10.62; SHH: Dex + 50.0 μmol/L BA, 0.50 vs . Dex, 0.12, t = 34.01; SUFU: Dex+ 50.0 μmol/L BA, 0.75 vs . Dex, 1.19, t = 10.78; GLI-1: Dex+ 50.0 μmol/L BA, 0.40 vs . Dex, 0.11, t = 30.68. All P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS BA antagonizes Dex-induced apoptosis of human BMSCs by activating the HH signaling pathway. It is a potential candidate for preventing SONFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Jia
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Medical Department, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China
| | - Yaping Jiang
- Department of Oral Implantology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Medical Department, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China
| | - Yingxing Xu
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
- Medical Department, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China
| | - Yingzhen Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
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14
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Mejía-Rodríguez R, Romero-Trejo D, González RO, Segovia J. Combined treatments with AZD5363, AZD8542, curcumin or resveratrol induce death of human glioblastoma cells by suppressing the PI3K/AKT and SHH signaling pathways. Biochem Biophys Rep 2023; 33:101430. [PMID: 36714540 PMCID: PMC9876780 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a very aggressive tumor that presents vascularization, necrosis and is resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Current treatments are not effective eradicating GBM, thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic strategies against GBM. AZD5363, AZD8542, curcumin and resveratrol, are widely studied for the treatment of cancer and in the present study we explored the effects of the administration of combined treatments with AZD5363, AZD8542, curcumin or resveratrol on human GBM cells. We found that the combined treatments with AZD5363+AZD8542+Curcumin and AZD8542+Curcumin+Resveratrol inhibit the PI3K/AKT and SHH survival pathways by decreasing the activity of AKT, the reduction of the expression of SMO, pP70S6k, pS6k, GLI1, p21 and p27, and the activation of caspase-3 as a marker of apoptosis. These results provide evidence that the combined treatments AZD5363+AZD8542+Curcumin and AZD8542+Curcumin+Resveratrol have the potential to be an interesting option against GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalinda Mejía-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico
| | - Daniel Romero-Trejo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico
| | - Rosa O. González
- Departamento de Matemáticas, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Mexico
| | - José Segovia
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico,Corresponding author. Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Av. IPN # 2508, 07300, Mexico.
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15
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Agrawal K, Chauhan S, Kumar D. Expression analysis and regulation of GLI and its correlation with stemness and metabolic alteration in human brain tumor. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:10. [PMID: 36532860 PMCID: PMC9755437 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-022-03419-5] [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: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
GLI gene-mediated hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays a substantial role in brain cancer development and growth including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), lower-grade glioma (LGG), and medulloblastoma (MB). GLI2 and GLI3 gene expression levels are extremely enhanced in these cancers with poor patient survival. Moreover, GLI genes are correlated with stemness-related factors SOX2, SOX9, POU5F1, and NANOG that work as the driving factors for brain cancer stem cells (CSCs) progression. It's critical to find new ways to combat this deadly malignancy and CSCs. Using in silico approaches, our study explored the role of GLI genes (GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3), the primary transcription factors of the sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway, in GBM, LGG, MB, and glioblastoma stem-like cells (GSCs). Additionally, we found strong association of angiogenic-related gene VEGFA, metabolic genes ENO1, ENO2, and pluripotency-related genes SOX2, SOX9, NANOG, POU5F1 with GLI genes, suggesting their role in brain tumor initiation and progression. We also studied their transcriptional network and functional category enrichment analysis about brain tumor development to find a better therapeutic strategy against brain cancer and their stem cells. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-022-03419-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirti Agrawal
- School of Health Sciences and Technology (SoHST), UPES University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007 India
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sec 125, Noida, 201303 India
| | - Saumya Chauhan
- Amity Global School, Sector 46, Gurugram, Haryana 122018 India
| | - Dhruv Kumar
- School of Health Sciences and Technology (SoHST), UPES University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007 India
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sec 125, Noida, 201303 India
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16
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Jessurun J, Orr C, McNulty SN, Hagen CE, Alnajar H, Wilkes D, Kudman S, Al Assaad M, Dorsaint P, Ohara K, He F, Chiu K, Yin YM, Xiang JZ, Qin L, Sboner A, Elemento O, Yantiss RK, Graham RP, Poizat F, Mosquera JM. GLI1 -Rearranged Enteric Tumor : Expanding the Spectrum of Gastrointestinal Neoplasms With GLI1 Gene Fusions. Am J Surg Pathol 2023; 47:65-73. [PMID: 35968961 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
GLI1 encodes a transcription factor that targets cell cycle regulators affecting stem cell proliferation. GLI1 gene fusions were initially described in pericytomas with a t[7;12] translocation and more recently in gastric plexiform fibromyxomas and gastroblastomas. This study describes the clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular features of three intestinal-based neoplasms harboring GLI1 gene fusions. We studied three unique mesenchymal small bowel tumors. Paraffin embedded tumor tissues from these cases and 62 additional tumor samples that included a plexiform fibromyxoma were sequenced using a targeted RNAseq method to detect fusion events. The study patients included two women and one man who were 52, 80, and 22 years of age at the time of diagnosis. The tumors involved the submucosa and muscularis propria of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. All 3 tumors contained a proliferation of monotonous oval or spindle cells with scattered, somewhat dilated vessels. Two cases showed epithelioid structures such as glands, tubules, or nests. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed cytokeratin expression in the epithelioid components of both tumors displaying these features, and variable numbers of mesenchymal cells. Diffuse CD56 positivity was seen in the mesenchymal component of 2 tumors and desmin and smooth muscle actin staining in the other tumor. Immunostains for S-100 protein, DOG-1, and CD117 were negative in all cases. GLI1 fusions with different partner genes were detected in all tumors, and in the plexiform fibromyxoma, used as a control. Validation by fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed. None of the tumors have recurred or metastasize after surgery. We describe novel GLI1 fusions in 3 mesenchymal neoplasms of the small intestine, including 2 with biphenotypic features. Thus far, all cases have pursued indolent clinical courses. We propose the term " GLI1 -rearranged enteric tumor" to encompass this group of unique neoplasms of the small intestine that harbor GLI1 gene fusions and expand the spectrum of gastrointestinal neoplasms with these alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Catherine E Hagen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - David Wilkes
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
| | - Sarah Kudman
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
| | - Majd Al Assaad
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Princesca Dorsaint
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Kentaro Ohara
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
| | - Feng He
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
| | - Kenrry Chiu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
| | - Yong Mei Yin
- Department of Pathology, NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Jenny Zhaoying Xiang
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology
| | - Lihui Qin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
| | - Andrea Sboner
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Olivier Elemento
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | - Rondell P Graham
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | - Juan Miguel Mosquera
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine
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17
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Ervin EH, French R, Chang CH, Pauklin S. Inside the stemness engine: Mechanistic links between deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 87:48-83. [PMID: 36347438 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cell identity is largely determined by its transcriptional profile. In tumour, deregulation of transcription factor expression and/or activity enables cancer cell to acquire a stem-like state characterised by capacity to self-renew, differentiate and form tumours in vivo. These stem-like cancer cells are highly metastatic and therapy resistant, thus warranting a more complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms downstream of the transcription factors that mediate the establishment of stemness state. Here, we review recent research findings that provide a mechanistic link between the commonly deregulated transcription factors and stemness in cancer. In particular, we describe the role of master transcription factors (SOX, OCT4, NANOG, KLF, BRACHYURY, SALL, HOX, FOX and RUNX), signalling-regulated transcription factors (SMAD, β-catenin, YAP, TAZ, AP-1, NOTCH, STAT, GLI, ETS and NF-κB) and unclassified transcription factors (c-MYC, HIF, EMT transcription factors and P53) across diverse tumour types, thereby yielding a comprehensive overview identifying shared downstream targets, highlighting unique mechanisms and discussing complexities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egle-Helene Ervin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Rhiannon French
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Chao-Hui Chang
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Old Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
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18
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Lahmar Z, Ahmed E, Fort A, Vachier I, Bourdin A, Bergougnoux A. Hedgehog pathway and its inhibitors in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pharmacol Ther 2022; 240:108295. [PMID: 36191777 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
COPD affects millions of people and is now ranked as the third leading cause of death worldwide. This largely untreatable chronic airway disease results in irreversible destruction of lung architecture. The small lung hypothesis is now supported by epidemiological, physiological and clinical studies. Accordingly, the early and severe COPD phenotype carries the most dreadful prognosis and finds its roots during lung growth. Pathophysiological mechanisms remain poorly understood and implicate individual susceptibility (genetics), a large part of environmental factors (viral infections, tobacco consumption, air pollution) and the combined effects of those triggers on gene expression. Genetic susceptibility is most likely involved as the disease is severe and starts early in life. The latter observation led to the identification of Mendelian inheritance via disease-causing variants of SERPINA1 - known as the basis for alpha-1 anti-trypsin deficiency, and TERT. In the last two decades multiple genome wide association studies (GWAS) identified many single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with COPD. High significance SNPs are located in 4q31 near HHIP which encodes an evolutionarily highly conserved physiological inhibitor of the Hedgehog signaling pathway (HH). HHIP is critical to several in utero developmental lung processes. It is also implicated in homeostasis, injury response, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor resistance to apoptosis. A few studies have reported decreased HHIP RNA and protein levels in human adult COPD lungs. HHIP+/- murine models led to emphysema. HH pathway inhibitors, such as vismodegib and sonidegib, are already validated in oncology, whereas other drugs have evidenced in vitro effects. Targeting the Hedgehog pathway could lead to a new therapeutic avenue in COPD. In this review, we focused on the early and severe COPD phenotype and the small lung hypothesis by exploring genetic susceptibility traits that are potentially treatable, thus summarizing promising therapeutics for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Lahmar
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - E Ahmed
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, Inserm U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France
| | - A Fort
- PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, Inserm U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France
| | - I Vachier
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, Inserm U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France
| | - A Bourdin
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, Inserm U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France
| | - A Bergougnoux
- PhyMedExp, Univ Montpellier, Inserm U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France; Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire et de Cytogénomique, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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19
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Manni W, Min W. Signaling pathways in the regulation of cancer stem cells and associated targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e176. [PMID: 36226253 PMCID: PMC9534377 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of malignant tumor cells with selective capacities for tumor initiation, self-renewal, metastasis, and unlimited growth into bulks, which are believed as a major cause of progressive tumor phenotypes, including recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. A number of signaling pathways are involved in the maintenance of stem cell properties and survival of CSCs, including well-established intrinsic pathways, such as the Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling, and extrinsic pathways, such as the vascular microenvironment and tumor-associated immune cells. There is also intricate crosstalk between these signal cascades and other oncogenic pathways. Thus, targeting pathway molecules that regulate CSCs provides a new option for the treatment of therapy-resistant or -refractory tumors. These treatments include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies that target key signaling in CSCs, as well as CSC-directed immunotherapies that harness the immune systems to target CSCs. This review aims to provide an overview of the regulating networks and their immune interactions involved in CSC development. We also address the update on the development of CSC-directed therapeutics, with a special focus on those with application approval or under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Manni
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Wu Min
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of North DakotaGrand ForksNorth DakotaUSA
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20
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Wang H, Lai Q, Wang D, Pei J, Tian B, Gao Y, Gao Z, Xu X. Hedgehog signaling regulates the development and treatment of glioblastoma. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:294. [PMID: 35949611 PMCID: PMC9353242 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13414] [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: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and fatal malignant tumor type of the central nervous system. GBM affects public health and it is important to identify biomarkers to improve diagnosis, reduce drug resistance and improve prognosis (e.g., personalized targeted therapies). Hedgehog (HH) signaling has an important role in embryonic development, tissue regeneration and stem cell renewal. A large amount of evidence indicates that both normative and non-normative HH signals have an important role in GBM. The present study reviewed the role of the HH signaling pathway in the occurrence and progression of GBM. Furthermore, the effectiveness of drugs that target different components of the HH pathway was also examined. The HH pathway has an important role in reversing drug resistance after GBM conventional treatment. The present review highlighted the relevance of HH signaling in GBM and outlined that this pathway has a key role in the occurrence, development and treatment of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongping Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Qun Lai
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Pei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Baogang Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Yunhe Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoguo Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
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21
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Lemos T, Merchant A. The hedgehog pathway in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:960943. [PMID: 36091167 PMCID: PMC9453489 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.960943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) pathway is a promising therapeutic target in hematological malignancies. Activation of the pathway has been tied to greater chances of relapse and poorer outcomes in several hematological malignancies and inhibiting the pathway has improved outcomes in several clinical trials. One inhibitor targeting the pathway via the protein Smoothened (SMO), glasdegib, has been approved by the FDA for use with a low dose cytarabine regiment in some high-risk acute myeloid leukemia patients (AML). If further clinical trials in glasdegib produce positive results, there may soon be more general use of HH inhibitors in the treatment of hematological malignancies.While there is clinical evidence that HH inhibitors may improve outcomes and help prevent relapse, a full understanding of any mechanism of action remains elusive. The bulk of AML cells exhibit primary resistance to SMO inhibition (SMOi), leading some to hypothesize that that clinical activity of SMOi is mediated through modulation of self-renewal and chemoresistance in rare cancer stem cells (CSC). Direct evidence that CSC are being targeted in patients by SMOi has proven difficult to produce, and here we present data to support the alternative hypothesis that suggests the clinical benefit observed with SMOi is being mediated through stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment.This paper's aims are to review the history of the HH pathway in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy, to highlight the pre-clinical and clinical evidence for its use a therapeutic target, and to explore the evidence for stromal activation of the pathway acting to protect CSCs and enable self-renewal of AML and other diseases. Finally, we highlight gaps in the current data and present hypotheses for new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akil Merchant
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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22
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Canonical Hedgehog Pathway and Noncanonical GLI Transcription Factor Activation in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162523. [PMID: 36010600 PMCID: PMC9406872 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog signaling pathway is one of the fundamental pathways required for development and regulation of postnatal regeneration in a variety of tissues. The pathway has also been associated with cancers since the identification of a mutation in one of its components, PTCH, as the cause of Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome, which is associated with several cancers. Our understanding of the pathway in tumorigenesis has expanded greatly since that initial discovery over two decades ago. The pathway has tumor-suppressive and oncogenic functions depending on the context of the cancer. Furthermore, noncanonical activation of GLI transcription factors has been reported in a number of tumor types. Here, we review the roles of canonical Hedgehog signaling pathway and noncanonical GLI activation in cancers, particularly epithelial cancers, and discuss an emerging concept of the distinct outcomes that these modes have on cancer initiation and progression.
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23
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Iyer SG, Stanchina M, Bradley TJ, Watts J. Profile of Glasdegib for the Treatment of Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Evidence to Date. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:2267-2272. [PMID: 35937938 PMCID: PMC9354757 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s195723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy primarily affecting older adults. Historically, the highest rates of response have been achieved with intensive induction chemotherapy; however, a significant portion of older or unfit adults with AML are unable to tolerate intensive therapy or have chemotherapy-resistant disease, creating a large need for active and less intensive treatment strategies. Glasdegib, an oral inhibitor of the transmembrane protein Smoothened (SMO) involved in the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, was approved in 2018 for older or unfit adults with AML and attained a role in clinical practice after showing an overall survival (OS) advantage when combined with the established agent low-dose cytarabine (LDAC). Since that time, however, several other highly active lower intensity therapies such as venetoclax plus a hypomethylating agent (HMA) have garnered a dominant role in the treatment of this patient population. In this review, we summarize the role of glasdegib in the current treatment landscape of newly diagnosed AML and discuss ongoing investigations into its role in novel combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Girish Iyer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Michele Stanchina
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Terrence J Bradley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Correspondence: Terrence J Bradley, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 90 SW 3rd Street #2210, Miami, FL, 33130, USA, Tel +1 3052439290, Fax +1 305-243-9161, Email
| | - Justin Watts
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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24
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Chen Y, Zhang Z, Yang X, Liu A, Liu S, Feng J, Xuan K. Odontogenic MSC Heterogeneity: Challenges and Opportunities for Regenerative Medicine. Front Physiol 2022; 13:827470. [PMID: 35514352 PMCID: PMC9061943 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.827470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular heterogeneity refers to the genetic and phenotypic differences among cells, which reflect their various fate choices, including viability, proliferation, self-renewal probability, and differentiation into different lineages. In recent years, research on the heterogeneity of mesenchymal stem cells has made some progress. Odontogenic mesenchymal stem cells share the characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells, namely, good accessibility, low immunogenicity and high stemness. In addition, they also exhibit the characteristics of vasculogenesis and neurogenesis, making them attractive for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, the usage of mesenchymal stem cell subgroups differs in different diseases. Furthermore, because of the heterogeneity of odontogenic mesenchymal stem cells, their application in tissue regeneration and disease management is restricted. Findings related to the heterogeneity of odontogenic mesenchymal stem cells urgently need to be summarized, thus, we reviewed studies on odontogenic mesenchymal stem cells and their specific subpopulations, in order to provide indications for further research on the stem cell regenerative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhaoyichun Zhang
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Anqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shiyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianying Feng
- School of Stomatology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Xuan
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Preventive Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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25
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Ghosh S. Breaking the DLG shackles in glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2022; 24:1243-1245. [PMID: 35403688 PMCID: PMC9340648 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Ghosh
- Department of Neurology and Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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26
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Onishi H, Nakamura K, Yanai K, Nagai S, Nakayama K, Oyama Y, Fujimura A, Ozono K, Yamasaki A. Cancer therapy that targets the Hedgehog signaling pathway considering the cancer microenvironment (Review). Oncol Rep 2022; 47:93. [DOI: 10.3892/or.2022.8304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hideya Onishi
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Katsuya Nakamura
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Kosuke Yanai
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Nagai
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Kazunori Nakayama
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Oyama
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Akiko Fujimura
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Keigo Ozono
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Akio Yamasaki
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
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27
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Wu Y, Zhou X, Yuan W, Liu J, Yang W, Zhu Y, Ye C, Xiong X, Zhang Q, Liu J, Wang J. Gli1+ Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Bone and Teeth. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 17:494-502. [PMID: 34994317 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x17666220107102911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are remarkable and noteworthy. Identification of markers for MSCs enables the study of their niche in vivo. It has been identified that glioma-associated oncogene 1 positive (Gli1+) cells are mesenchymal stem cells supporting homeostasis and injury repair, especially in the skeletal system and teeth. This review outlines the role of Gli1+ cells as an MSC subpopulation in both bones and teeth, suggesting the prospects of Gli1+ cells in stem cell-based tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yange Wu
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; b Lab for Aging Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueman Zhou
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenxiu Yuan
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenke Yang
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yufan Zhu
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengxinyue Ye
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Xiong
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinlanhui Zhang
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Lab for Aging Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Orthodontics, State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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28
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Liu J, Mao R, Lao IW, Yu L, Bai Q, Zhou X, Wang J. GLI1-altered mesenchymal tumor: a clinicopathological and molecular analysis of ten additional cases of an emerging entity. Virchows Arch 2021; 480:1087-1099. [PMID: 34779913 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-021-03224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We report 10 additional cases of GLI1-altered mesenchymal tumor to further delineate its clinicopathological and molecular spectrum. There were seven males and three females with a median age of 31 years (range 1.3 ~ 75 years). Five tumors arose in the oral cavity, one each in the stomach, uterine cervix, elbow, groin, and thigh. Histologically, all cases except one were composed of monomorphic round to epithelioid cells showing an infiltrative multinodular growth pattern. The neoplastic cells were surrounded by a rich network of capillary vessels. Vessel invasion or subendothelial protrusion into the vascular space was commonly present. One tumor developed regional lymph node metastasis. The remaining case showed a predominantly spindle cell tumor. By immunohistochemistry, most tumors showed diffuse staining of CD56 (8/8) with variable expression of S100 protein (7/8). In three tumors harboring amplified genes, strong and diffuse nuclear staining of MDM2 (2/3) and CDK4 (3/3) were noted. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) studies revealed GLI1 fusions in 7 cases and GLI1 amplification in 2 cases, which were validated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis in the majority of cases. One case did not show fusion gene by RNA-seq, but FISH revealed both amplification and break-apart of GLI1 gene. Follow-up information showed local recurrences in two patients. All other patients remained disease-free at the last follow-up. Our study further demonstrates that mesenchymal tumors with GLI1 alterations represent a distinctive clinicopathological entity. Although the tumor has a propensity for the tongue, it can also arise in somatic soft tissues as well as in visceral organs. Based on the characteristic morphological features and genomic profiles, we propose the term "GLI1-altered mesenchymal tumor" to describe this emerging entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Rongjun Mao
- Department of Pathology, Foshan Hospital of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Guangdong Province, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - I Weng Lao
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qianming Bai
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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29
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Majumder D. An Analysis of Structure-function Co-relation between GLI Oncoprotein and HLA Immune-gene Transcriptional Regulation through Molecular Docking. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573394717666210805115050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
GLI proteins play a significant role in the transduction of the Hedgehog
(Hh) signaling pathway. A variety of human cancers, including the brain, gastrointestinal, lung,
breast, and prostate cancers, demonstrate inappropriate activation of this pathway. GLI helps in proliferation
and has an inhibitory role in the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells. Malignancies
may have a defect in differentiation. Different types of malignancies and undifferentiated cells
have a low level of HLA expression on their cell surface.
Objective:
Human Leukocytic Antigen (HLA) downregulation is frequently observed in cancer
cells. This work is aimed to hypothesize whether this downregulation of HLA molecules is GLI oncoprotein
mediated or not. To understand the roles of different types of GLI oncoproteins on different
classes of HLA transcriptional machinery was carried out through structure-based modeling
and molecular docking studies.
Methods:
To investigate the role of GLI in HLA expression /downregulation is Hh-GLI mediated
or not, molecular docking based computational interaction studies were performed between different
GLI proteins (GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3) with TATA box binding protein (TBP) and compare the
binding efficiencies of different HLA gene (both HLA class I and –II) regulating transcription factors
(RelA, RFX5, RFXAP, RFXANK, CIITA, CREB1, and their combinations) with TBP. Due to
unavailability of 3D protein structures of GLI2 and cyclin D2 (a natural ligand of GLI1) were modelled
followed by structural validation by Ramachandran plot analysis.
Results:
GLI proteins especially, GLI1 and GLI2, have almost similar binding energy of RFX5-RFXANK-
RFXAP and CIITA multi-protein complex to TBP but has lower binding energy between
RelA to TBP.
Conclusion:
This study suggests that HLA class I may not be downregulated by GLI; however,
over-expression of GLI1 is may be responsible for HLA class II downregulation. Thus this protein
may be responsible for the maintenance of the undifferentiated state of malignant cells. This study
also suggests the implicative role of GLI1 in the early definitive stage of hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durjoy Majumder
- Department of Physiology, West Bengal State University, Berunanpukuria, Malikapur, Barasat, 700 126 Kolkata,India
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30
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Freisleben F, Modemann F, Muschhammer J, Stamm H, Brauneck F, Krispien A, Bokemeyer C, Kirschner KN, Wellbrock J, Fiedler W. Mebendazole Mediates Proteasomal Degradation of GLI Transcription Factors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10670. [PMID: 34639011 PMCID: PMC8508953 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of elderly AML patients is still poor due to chemotherapy resistance. The Hedgehog (HH) pathway is important for leukemic transformation because of aberrant activation of GLI transcription factors. MBZ is a well-tolerated anthelmintic that exhibits strong antitumor effects. Herein, we show that MBZ induced strong, dose-dependent anti-leukemic effects on AML cells, including the sensitization of AML cells to chemotherapy with cytarabine. MBZ strongly reduced intracellular protein levels of GLI1/GLI2 transcription factors. Consequently, MBZ reduced the GLI promoter activity as observed in luciferase-based reporter assays in AML cell lines. Further analysis revealed that MBZ mediates its anti-leukemic effects by promoting the proteasomal degradation of GLI transcription factors via inhibition of HSP70/90 chaperone activity. Extensive molecular dynamics simulations were performed on the MBZ-HSP90 complex, showing a stable binding interaction at the ATP binding site. Importantly, two patients with refractory AML were treated with MBZ in an off-label setting and MBZ effectively reduced the GLI signaling activity in a modified plasma inhibitory assay, resulting in a decrease in peripheral blood blast counts in one patient. Our data prove that MBZ is an effective GLI inhibitor that should be evaluated in combination to conventional chemotherapy in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Freisleben
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Franziska Modemann
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
- Mildred Scheel Cancer Career Center, University Cancer Center Hamburg, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jana Muschhammer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Hauke Stamm
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Franziska Brauneck
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Alexander Krispien
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Karl N. Kirschner
- Department of Computer Science, University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, 53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany;
| | - Jasmin Wellbrock
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
| | - Walter Fiedler
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, Hubertus Wald University Cancer Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany; (F.F.); (F.M.); (J.M.); (H.S.); (F.B.); (A.K.); (C.B.); (J.W.)
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31
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The Role of the Hedgehog Pathway in Cholangiocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194774. [PMID: 34638259 PMCID: PMC8507550 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is one of the most refractory malignancies with a high mortality rate. Among all the pathways involved in CCA development, emerging evidence highlights Hedgehog (HH) signaling as a substantial player in CCA-genesis and development. The pro-tumoral function of HH provides potential therapeutic implications, and recently the use of HH inhibitors has paved the way for clinical application in various solid tumors. Targeting HH members, namely Hedgehog ligands, SMO transmembrane protein and GLI transcription factors may thus confer therapeutic options for the improvement of CCA treatment outcome. Abstract Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a poorly treatable type of cancer and, along with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the predominant type of primitive liver cancer in adults. The lack of understanding of CCA biology has slowed down the identification of novel targets and the development of effective treatments. While tumors share some general characteristics, detailed knowledge of specific features is essential for the development of effectively tailored therapeutic approaches. The Hedgehog (HH) signaling cascade regulates stemness biology, embryonal development, tissue homeostasis, and cell proliferation and differentiation. Its aberrant activation has been associated with a variety of solid and hematological human malignancies. Several HH-inhibiting compounds have been indeed developed as potential anticancer agents in different types of tumors, with Smoothened and GLI inhibitors showing the most promising results. Beside its well-established function in other tumors, findings regarding the HH signaling in CCA are still controversial. Here we will give an overview of the most important clinical and molecular features of cholangiocarcinoma, and we will discuss the available evidence of the crosstalk between the HH signaling pathway and the cholangiocarcinoma cell biology.
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Pakvasa M, Tucker AB, Shen T, He TC, Reid RR. The Pleiotropic Intricacies of Hedgehog Signaling: From Craniofacial Patterning to Carcinogenesis. FACE (THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF.) 2021; 2:260-274. [PMID: 35812774 PMCID: PMC9268505 DOI: 10.1177/27325016211024326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hedgehog signaling was discovered more than 40 years ago in experiments demonstrating that it is a fundamental mediator of limb development. Since that time, it has been shown to be important in development, homeostasis, and disease. The hedgehog pathway proceeds through a pathway highly conserved throughout animals beginning with the extracellular diffusion of hedgehog ligands, proceeding through an intracellular signaling cascade, and ending with the activation of specific target genes. A vast amount of research has been done elucidating hedgehog signaling mechanisms and regulation. This research has found a complex system of genetics and signaling that helps determine how organisms develop and function. This review provides an overview of what is known about hedgehog genetics and signaling, followed by an in-depth discussion of the role of hedgehog signaling in craniofacial development and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Pakvasa
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
- Molecular Oncology Lab, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine,University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Andrew B. Tucker
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
- Molecular Oncology Lab, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine,University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Timothy Shen
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Lab, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine,University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Russell R. Reid
- Molecular Oncology Lab, Department of Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine,University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
- Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
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Sönksen M, Kerl K, Bunzen H. Current status and future prospects of nanomedicine for arsenic trioxide delivery to solid tumors. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:374-398. [PMID: 34309879 DOI: 10.1002/med.21844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite having a rich history as a poison, arsenic and its compounds have also gained a great reputation as promising anticancer drugs. As a pioneer, arsenic trioxide has been approved for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. Many in vitro studies suggested that arsenic trioxide could also be used in the treatment of solid tumors. However, the transition from bench to bedside turned out to be challenging, especially in terms of the drug bioavailability and concentration reaching tumor tissues. To address these issues, nanomedicine tools have been proposed. As nanocarriers of arsenic trioxide, various materials have been examined including liposomes, polymer, and inorganic nanoparticles, and many other materials. This review gives an overview of the existing strategies of delivery of arsenic trioxide in cancer treatment with a focus on the drug encapsulation approaches and medicinal impact in the treatment of solid tumors. It focuses on the progress in the last years and gives an outlook and suggestions for further improvements including theragnostic approaches and targeted delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe Sönksen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Hana Bunzen
- Chair of Solid State and Materials Chemistry, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
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Catara G, Spano D. Combinatorial Strategies to Target Molecular and Signaling Pathways to Disarm Cancer Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2021; 11:689131. [PMID: 34381714 PMCID: PMC8352560 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.689131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is an urgent public health issue with a very huge number of cases all over the world expected to increase by 2040. Despite improved diagnosis and therapeutic protocols, it remains the main leading cause of death in the world. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) constitute a tumor subpopulation defined by ability to self-renewal and to generate the heterogeneous and differentiated cell lineages that form the tumor bulk. These cells represent a major concern in cancer treatment due to resistance to conventional protocols of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapy. In fact, although partial or complete tumor regression can be achieved in patients, these responses are often followed by cancer relapse due to the expansion of CSCs population. The aberrant activation of developmental and oncogenic signaling pathways plays a relevant role in promoting CSCs therapy resistance. Although several targeted approaches relying on monotherapy have been developed to affect these pathways, they have shown limited efficacy. Therefore, an urgent need to design alternative combinatorial strategies to replace conventional regimens exists. This review summarizes the preclinical studies which provide a proof of concept of therapeutic efficacy of combinatorial approaches targeting the CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Catara
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Spano
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
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Sasai K, Tabu K, Saito T, Matsuba Y, Saido TC, Tanaka S. Difference in the malignancy between RAS and GLI1-transformed astrocytes is associated with frequency of p27 KIP1-positive cells in xenograft tissues. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 223:153465. [PMID: 33989885 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrate that the introduction of GLI1 is sufficient for immortalized human astrocytes to be transformed whereas FOXM1 fails to induce malignant transformation, suggesting differences between GLI1 and FOXM1 in terms of transforming ability despite both transcription factors being overexpressed in malignant gliomas. Moreover, in investigations of mechanisms underlying relatively less-malignant features of GLI1-transformed astrocytes, we found that p27KIP1-positive cells were frequently observed in xenografts derived from GLI1-transformed astrocytes compared to those from RAS-transformed cells. As shRNA-mediated knockdown of p27KIP1 accelerates tumor progression of GLI1-transformed astrocytes, downregulation of p27KIP1 contributes to malignant features of transformed astrocytes. We propose that the models using immortalized/transformed astrocytes are useful to identify the minimal and most crucial set of changes required for glioma formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Sasai
- Department of Cancer Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan.
| | - Kouichi Tabu
- Department of Cancer Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Yukio Matsuba
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Takaomi C Saido
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Shinya Tanaka
- Department of Cancer Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, N15 W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan; WPI Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (WPI-ICReDD), Hokkaido University, N21 W10, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 001-0021, Japan
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Avery JT, Zhang R, Boohaker RJ. GLI1: A Therapeutic Target for Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:673154. [PMID: 34113570 PMCID: PMC8186314 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.673154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
GLI1 is a transcriptional effector at the terminal end of the Hedgehog signaling (Hh) pathway and is tightly regulated during embryonic development and tissue patterning/differentiation. GLI1 has low-level expression in differentiated tissues, however, in certain cancers, aberrant activation of GLI1 has been linked to the promotion of numerous hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, metastasis, metabolic rewiring, and chemotherapeutic resistance. All of these are driven, in part, by GLI1’s role in regulating cell cycle, DNA replication and DNA damage repair processes. The consequences of GLI1 oncogenic activity, specifically the activity surrounding DNA damage repair proteins, such as NBS1, and cell cycle proteins, such as CDK1, can be linked to tumorigenesis and chemoresistance. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms driving GLI1 dysregulation can provide prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers to identify a patient population that would derive therapeutic benefit from either direct inhibition of GLI1 or targeted therapy towards proteins downstream of GLI1 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin T Avery
- Oncology Department, Drug Discovery Division, Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Ruowen Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Rebecca J Boohaker
- Oncology Department, Drug Discovery Division, Southern Research, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Acharya P, Chouhan K, Weiskirchen S, Weiskirchen R. Cellular Mechanisms of Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:671640. [PMID: 34025430 PMCID: PMC8134740 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.671640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a central organ in the human body, coordinating several key metabolic roles. The structure of the liver which consists of the distinctive arrangement of hepatocytes, hepatic sinusoids, the hepatic artery, portal vein and the central vein, is critical for its function. Due to its unique position in the human body, the liver interacts with components of circulation targeted for the rest of the body and in the process, it is exposed to a vast array of external agents such as dietary metabolites and compounds absorbed through the intestine, including alcohol and drugs, as well as pathogens. Some of these agents may result in injury to the cellular components of liver leading to the activation of the natural wound healing response of the body or fibrogenesis. Long-term injury to liver cells and consistent activation of the fibrogenic response can lead to liver fibrosis such as that seen in chronic alcoholics or clinically obese individuals. Unidentified fibrosis can evolve into more severe consequences over a period of time such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. It is well recognized now that in addition to external agents, genetic predisposition also plays a role in the development of liver fibrosis. An improved understanding of the cellular pathways of fibrosis can illuminate our understanding of this process, and uncover potential therapeutic targets. Here we summarized recent aspects in the understanding of relevant pathways, cellular and molecular drivers of hepatic fibrosis and discuss how this knowledge impact the therapy of respective disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragyan Acharya
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Komal Chouhan
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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Abstract
Comprehensive genomic studies of meningioma have offered important insights about the molecular mechanisms underlying this common brain tumor. The use of next-generation sequencing techniques has identified driver mutations in approximately 80% of benign sporadic lesions, as well as epigenetic, regulatory, and copy number events that are associated with formation and disease progression. The events described to date fall into five mutually exclusive molecular subgroups that correlate with tumor location and embryological origin. Importantly, these subgroups also carry implications for clinical management, as they are predictive of histologic subtype and the likelihood of progression. Further work is necessary to understand the molecular mechanisms by which identified mutations drive tumorigenesis as well as the genomic pathways that transform benign lesions into malignancies. Progress made during the past decade has opened the door to potential molecular therapies as well as integration of meningioma genotyping data into clinical management decisions. Several pharmacologic trials are currently underway that leverage recent genomic findings to target established oncogenic pathways in refractory tumors. With the combined efforts of physicians and basic science investigators, the clinical management of meningioma will continue to make important strides in the coming years.
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Rana T, Behl T, Sehgal A, Sachdeva M, Mehta V, Sharma N, Singh S, Bungau S. Exploring Sonic Hedgehog Cell Signaling in Neurogenesis: Its Potential Role in Depressive Behavior. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1589-1602. [PMID: 33786718 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03307-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Depression is the most prevalent form of neuropsychiatric disorder affecting all age groups globally. As per the estimation of the World Health Organization (WHO), depression will develop into the foremost reason for disability globally by the year 2030. The primary neurobiological mechanism implicated in depression remains ambiguous; however, dysregulation of molecular and signaling transductions results in depressive disorders. Several theories have been developed to explain the pathogenesis of depression, however, none of them completely explained all aspects of depressive-pathogenesis. In the current review, we aimed to explore the role of the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway in the development of the depressive disorder and its potential as the therapeutic target. Shh signaling has a crucial function in neurogenesis and neural tube patterning during the development of the central nervous system (CNS). Shh signaling performs a basic function in embryogenesis and hippocampal neurogenesis. Moreover, antidepressants are also known to enhance neurogenesis in the hippocampus, which further suggests the potential of Shh signaling. Furthermore, there is decreased expression of a glioma-associated oncogene (Gli1) and Smoothened (Smo) in depression. Moreover, antidepressants also regulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and wingless protein (Wnt) signaling, therefore, Shh may be implicated in the pathogenesis of the depressive disorder. Deregulation of Shh signaling in CNS results in neurological disorders such as depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarapati Rana
- Government Pharmacy College, Seraj, Distt. Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India.,Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Monika Sachdeva
- Fatimah College of Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vineet Mehta
- Government College of Pharmacy, Rohru, Distt. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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Jing D, Li C, Yao K, Xie X, Wang P, Zhao H, Feng JQ, Zhao Z, Wu Y, Wang J. The vital role of Gli1 + mesenchymal stem cells in tissue development and homeostasis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:6077-6089. [PMID: 33533019 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays an essential role in both tissue development and homeostasis. Glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli1) is one of the vital transcriptional factors as well as the direct target gene in the Hh signaling pathway. The cells expressing the Gli1 gene (Gli1+ cells) have been identified as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that are responsible for various tissue developments, homeostasis, and injury repair. This review outlines some recent discoveries on the crucial roles of Gli1+ MSCs in the development and homeostasis of varieties of hard and soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaoyuan Li
- Department of Oral Implantology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xudong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peiqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hu Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jian Q Feng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Zhihe Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yafei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Periodontics, Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Ichimiya S, Onishi H, Nagao S, Koga S, Sakihama K, Nakayama K, Fujimura A, Oyama Y, Imaizumi A, Oda Y, Nakamura M. GLI2 but not GLI1/GLI3 plays a central role in the induction of malignant phenotype of gallbladder cancer. Oncol Rep 2021; 45:997-1010. [PMID: 33650666 PMCID: PMC7860001 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.7947] [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: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that Hedgehog (Hh) signal was enhanced in gallbladder cancer (GBC) and was involved in the induction of malignant phenotype of GBC. In recent years, therapeutics that target Hh signaling have focused on molecules downstream of smoothened (SMO). The three transcription factors in the Hh signal pathway, glioma‑associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1), GLI2, and GLI3, function downstream of SMO, but their biological role in GBC remains unclear. In the present study, the biological significance of GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3 were analyzed with the aim of developing novel treatments for GBC. It was revealed that GLI2, but not GLI1 or GLI3, was involved in the cell cycle‑mediated proliferative capacity in GBC and that GLI2, but not GLI1 or GLI3, was involved in the enhanced invasive capacity through epithelial‑mesenchymal transition. Further analyses revealed that GLI2 may function in mediating gemcitabine sensitivity and that GLI2 was involved in the promotion of fibrosis in a mouse xenograft model. Immunohistochemical staining of 66 surgically resected GBC tissues revealed that GLI2‑high expression patients had fewer numbers of CD3+ and CD8+ tumor‑infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and increased programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‑L1) expression in cancer cells. These results suggest that GLI2, but not GLI1 or GLI3, is involved in proliferation, invasion, fibrosis, PD‑L1 expression, and TILs in GBC and could be a novel therapeutic target. The results of this study provide a significant contribution to the development of a new treatment for refractory GBC, which has few therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Ichimiya
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Hideya Onishi
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Shinjiro Nagao
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Satoko Koga
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Kukiko Sakihama
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Kazunori Nakayama
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Akiko Fujimura
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Oyama
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Akira Imaizumi
- Department of Cancer Therapy and Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Yoshinao Oda
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
| | - Masafumi Nakamura
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812‑8582, Japan
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Stem cell properties of Gli1-positive cells in the periodontal ligament. J Oral Biosci 2020; 62:299-305. [DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Larsen LJ, Møller LB. Crosstalk of Hedgehog and mTORC1 Pathways. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102316. [PMID: 33081032 PMCID: PMC7603200 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) signaling and mTOR signaling, essential for embryonic development and cellular metabolism, are both coordinated by the primary cilium. Observations from cancer cells strongly indicate crosstalk between Hh and mTOR signaling. This hypothesis is supported by several studies: Evidence points to a TGFβ-mediated crosstalk; Increased PI3K/AKT/mTOR activity leads to increased Hh signaling through regulation of the GLI transcription factors; increased Hh signaling regulates mTORC1 activity positively by upregulating NKX2.2, leading to downregulation of negative mTOR regulators; GSK3 and AMPK are, as members of both signaling pathways, potentially important links between Hh and mTORC1 signaling; The kinase DYRK2 regulates Hh positively and mTORC1 signaling negatively. In contrast, both positive and negative regulation of Hh has been observed for DYRK1A and DYRK1B, which both regulate mTORC1 signaling positively. Based on crosstalk observed between cilia, Hh, and mTORC1, we suggest that the interaction between Hh and mTORC1 is more widespread than it appears from our current knowledge. Although many studies focusing on crosstalk have been carried out, contradictory observations appear and the interplay involving multiple partners is far from solved.
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Aivazian K, Mahar A, Jackett LA, Kimble RM, Scolyer RA. GLI activated epithelioid cell tumour: report of a case and proposed new terminology. Pathology 2020; 53:267-270. [PMID: 33032812 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karina Aivazian
- Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, North Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Annabelle Mahar
- Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise A Jackett
- Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, North Sydney, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Roy M Kimble
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, North Sydney, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Doheny D, Manore SG, Wong GL, Lo HW. Hedgehog Signaling and Truncated GLI1 in Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092114. [PMID: 32957513 PMCID: PMC7565963 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway regulates normal cell growth and differentiation. As a consequence of improper control, aberrant HH signaling results in tumorigenesis and supports aggressive phenotypes of human cancers, such as neoplastic transformation, tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Canonical activation of HH signaling occurs through binding of HH ligands to the transmembrane receptor Patched 1 (PTCH1), which derepresses the transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor Smoothened (SMO). Consequently, the glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) zinc-finger transcription factors, the terminal effectors of the HH pathway, are released from suppressor of fused (SUFU)-mediated cytoplasmic sequestration, permitting nuclear translocation and activation of target genes. Aberrant activation of this pathway has been implicated in several cancer types, including medulloblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, basal cell carcinoma, glioblastoma, and cancers of lung, colon, stomach, pancreas, ovarian, and breast. Therefore, several components of the HH pathway are under investigation for targeted cancer therapy, particularly GLI1 and SMO. GLI1 transcripts are reported to undergo alternative splicing to produce truncated variants: loss-of-function GLI1ΔN and gain-of-function truncated GLI1 (tGLI1). This review covers the biochemical steps necessary for propagation of the HH activating signal and the involvement of aberrant HH signaling in human cancers, with a highlight on the tumor-specific gain-of-function tGLI1 isoform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Doheny
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA; (D.D.); (S.G.M.); (G.L.W.)
| | - Sara G. Manore
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA; (D.D.); (S.G.M.); (G.L.W.)
| | - Grace L. Wong
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA; (D.D.); (S.G.M.); (G.L.W.)
| | - Hui-Wen Lo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA; (D.D.); (S.G.M.); (G.L.W.)
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-336-716-0695
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Vieira de Castro J, Gonçalves CS, Hormigo A, Costa BM. Exploiting the Complexities of Glioblastoma Stem Cells: Insights for Cancer Initiation and Therapeutic Targeting. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155278. [PMID: 32722427 PMCID: PMC7432229 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) in the 2000s revolutionized the cancer research field, raising new questions regarding the putative cell(s) of origin of this tumor type, and partly explaining the highly heterogeneous nature of glioblastoma (GBM). Increasing evidence has suggested that GSCs play critical roles in tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to conventional therapies. The remarkable oncogenic features of GSCs have generated significant interest in better defining and characterizing these cells and determining novel pathways driving GBM that could constitute attractive key therapeutic targets. While exciting breakthroughs have been achieved in the field, the characterization of GSCs is a challenge and the cell of origin of GBM remains controversial. For example, the use of several cell-surface molecular markers to identify and isolate GSCs has been a challenge. It is now widely accepted that none of these markers is, per se, sufficiently robust to distinguish GSCs from normal stem cells. Finding new strategies that are able to more efficiently and specifically target these niches could also prove invaluable against this devastating and therapy-insensitive tumor. In this review paper, we summarize the most relevant findings and discuss emerging concepts and open questions in the field of GSCs, some of which are, to some extent, pertinent to other cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Vieira de Castro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.V.d.C.); (C.S.G.)
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Céline S. Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.V.d.C.); (C.S.G.)
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Adília Hormigo
- Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Medicine, The Tisch Cancer Institute and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY 10029-6574, USA;
| | - Bruno M. Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.V.d.C.); (C.S.G.)
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-1-253-604-872
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) rs2228226 and rs10783826 polymorphisms and congenital heart disease (CHD) risk in a Chinese Han population.Genotyping for our interested polymorphisms was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 106 CHD patients and 112 healthy controls. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium status in the control group was also checked via χ test. Differences in genotype and allele frequencies between the case and control groups were analyzed adopting Chi-Squared test as well, and the relative risk of CHD resulting from GLI1 genetic variants was checked via calculating odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI).CC genotype of rs2228226 showed significantly higher frequency in CHD patients than in controls (P = .011), indicating that it increased the disease risk (OR = 3.257, 95%CI = 1.280-8.287). Similarly, C allele of the polymorphism elevated CHD incidence by 1.609 folds, compared with G allele (OR = 1.609, 95%CI = 1.089-2.376). However, rs10783826 was not correlated with the occurrence of CHD.GLI1 rs2228226 polymorphism may be a risk factor for CHD in Chinese Han population, but not rs10783826.
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Safgren SL, Olson RLO, Vrabel AM, Almada LL, Marks DL, Hernandez-Alvarado N, Gaspar-Maia A, Fernandez-Zapico ME. The transcription factor GLI1 cooperates with the chromatin remodeler SMARCA2 to regulate chromatin accessibility at distal DNA regulatory elements. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:8725-8735. [PMID: 32376693 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor GLI1 (GLI family zinc finger 1) plays a key role in the development and progression of multiple malignancies. To date, regulation of transcriptional activity at target gene promoters is the only molecular event known to underlie the oncogenic function of GLI1. Here, we provide evidence that GLI1 controls chromatin accessibility at distal regulatory regions by modulating the recruitment of SMARCA2 (SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily A, member 2) to these elements. We demonstrate that SMARCA2 endogenously interacts with GLI1 and enhances its transcriptional activity. Mapping experiments indicated that the C-terminal transcriptional activation domain of GLI1 and SMARCA2's central domains, including its ATPase motif, are required for this interaction. Interestingly, similar to SMARCA2, GLI1 overexpression increased chromatin accessibility, as indicated by results of the micrococcal nuclease assay. Further, results of assays for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) after GLI1 knockdown supported these findings, revealing that GLI1 regulates chromatin accessibility at several regions distal to gene promoters. Integrated RNA-seq and ATAC-seq data analyses identified a subset of differentially expressed genes located in cis to these regulated chromatin sites. Finally, using the GLI1-regulated gene HHIP (Hedgehog-interacting protein) as a model, we demonstrate that GLI1 and SMARCA2 co-occupy a distal chromatin peak and that SMARCA2 recruitment to this HHIP putative enhancer requires intact GLI1. These findings provide insights into how GLI1 controls gene expression in cancer cells and may inform approaches targeting this oncogenic transcription factor to manage malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Safgren
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rachel L O Olson
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anne M Vrabel
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Luciana L Almada
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - David L Marks
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nelmary Hernandez-Alvarado
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alexandre Gaspar-Maia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Martin E Fernandez-Zapico
- Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
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Matissek SJ, Elsawa SF. GLI3: a mediator of genetic diseases, development and cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:54. [PMID: 32245491 PMCID: PMC7119169 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor GLI3 is a member of the Hedgehog (Hh/HH) signaling pathway that can exist as a full length (Gli3-FL/GLI3-FL) or repressor (Gli3-R/GLI3-R) form. In response to HH activation, GLI3-FL regulates HH genes by targeting the GLI1 promoter. In the absence of HH signaling, GLI3 is phosphorylated leading to its partial degradation and the generation of GLI3-R which represses HH functions. GLI3 is also involved in tissue development, immune cell development and cancer. The absence of Gli3 in mice impaired brain and lung development and GLI3 mutations in humans are the cause of Greig cephalopolysyndactyly (GCPS) and Pallister Hall syndromes (PHS). In the immune system GLI3 regulates B, T and NK-cells and may be involved in LPS-TLR4 signaling. In addition, GLI3 was found to be upregulated in multiple cancers and was found to positively regulate cancerous behavior such as anchorage-independent growth, angiogenesis, proliferation and migration with the exception in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and medulloblastoma where GLI plays an anti-cancerous role. Finally, GLI3 is a target of microRNA. Here, we will review the biological significance of GLI3 and discuss gaps in our understanding of this molecule. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan J. Matissek
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Sherine F. Elsawa
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Rd Rudman 291, Durham, NH 03824 USA
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O'Brien SJ. A Beautiful Life: High Risk-High Payoff in Genetic Science. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2020; 8:1-24. [PMID: 31743063 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021419-083944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This narrative is a personal view of adventures in genetic science and society that have blessed my life and career across five decades. The advances I enjoyed and the lessons I learned derive from educational training, substantial collaboration, and growing up in the genomics age. I parse the stories into six research disciplines my students, fellows, and colleagues have entered and, in some cases, made an important difference. The first is comparative genetics, where evolutionary inference is applied to genome organization, from building gene maps in the 1970s to building whole genome sequences today. The second area tracks the progression of molecular evolutionary advances and applications to resolve the hierarchical relationship among living species in the silence of prehistory. The third endeavor outlines the birth and maturation of genetic studies and application to species conservation. The fourth theme discusses how emerging viruses studied in a genomic sense opened our eyes to host-pathogen interaction and interdependence. The fifth research emphasis outlines the population genetic-based search and discovery of human restriction genes that influence the epidemiological outcome of abrupt outbreaks, notably HIV-AIDS and several cancers. Finally, the last arena explored illustrates how genetic individualization in human and animals has improved forensic evidence in capital crimes. Each discipline has intuitive and technological overlaps, and each has benefitted from the contribution of genetic and genomic principles I learned so long ago from Drosophila. The journey continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J O'Brien
- Theodosius Dobzhansky Center for Genome Bioinformatics, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia 199004; .,Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33004, USA
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