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Yu HJ, Byun YH, Park CK. Techniques for assessing telomere length: A methodological review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1489-1498. [PMID: 38633384 PMCID: PMC11021795 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.011] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are located at the ends of chromosomes and have specific sequences with a distinctive structure that safeguards genes. They possess capping structures that protect chromosome ends from fusion events and ensure chromosome stability. Telomeres shorten in length during each cycle of cell division. When this length reaches a certain threshold, it can lead to genomic instability, thus being implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The possibility of telomeres serving as a biomarker for aging and age-related disease is being explored, and their significance is still under study. This is because post-mitotic cells, which are mature cells that do not undergo mitosis, do not experience telomere shortening due to age. Instead, other causes, for example, exposure to oxidative stress, can directly damage the telomeres, causing genomic instability. Nonetheless, a general agreement has been established that measuring telomere length offers valuable insights and forms a crucial foundation for analyzing gene expression and epigenetic data. Numerous approaches have been developed to accurately measure telomere lengths. In this review, we summarize various methods and their advantages and limitations for assessing telomere length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Hwan Byun
- Department of Neurosurgery, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Kee Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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2
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Thasneem A, Sif S, Rahman MM, Crovella S. Can telomeric changes orchestrate the development of autoinflammatory skin diseases? Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2024; 159:318-328. [PMID: 38502535 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.23.07689-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Telomeres, the safeguarding caps at the tips of chromosomes, are pivotal in the aging process of cells and have been linked to skin ailments and inflammatory conditions. Telomeres undergo a gradual reduction in length and factors such as oxidative stress hasten this diminishing process. Skin diseases including inflammatory conditions can be correlated with the shortening of telomeres and the persistent activation of DNA damage response in skin tissues. Telomere dysfunction could disrupt the balance of the skin, impairs wound healing, and may contribute to abnormal cytokine production. Skin aging and processes related to telomeres may function as one of the triggers for skin diseases. The presence of proinflammatory cytokines and dysfunctional telomeres in conditions such as Dyskeratosis Congenita implies a possible connection between the shortening of telomeres and the onset of chronic inflammatory skin disorders. In autoinflammatory skin diseases, chronic inflammation hinders wound healing thus aggravating the progression of the disease. The NF-ĸB pathway might contribute to the initiation or progression of chronic disorders by influencing mechanisms associated with telomere biology. The intricate connections between telomeres, telomerase, telomere-associated proteins, and skin diseases are still a complex puzzle to be solved. Here, we provide an overview of the impact of telomeres on both health and disease with a specific emphasis on their role in skin, inflammation and autoinflammatory skin disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayshath Thasneem
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Said Sif
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Md Mizanur Rahman
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Laboratory of Animal Research Center (LARC), Qatar University, Doha, Qatar -
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Nikolouzakis TK, Chrysos E, Docea AO, Fragkiadaki P, Souglakos J, Tsiaoussis J, Tsatsakis A. Current and Future Trends of Colorectal Cancer Treatment: Exploring Advances in Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1995. [PMID: 38893120 PMCID: PMC11171065 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16111995] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer of the colon and rectum (CRC) has been identified among the three most prevalent types of cancer and cancer-related deaths for both sexes. Even though significant progress in surgical and chemotherapeutic techniques has markedly improved disease-free and overall survival rates in contrast to those three decades ago, recent years have seen a stagnation in these improvements. This underscores the need for new therapies aiming to augment patient outcomes. A number of emerging strategies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and adoptive cell therapy (ACT), have exhibited promising outcomes not only in preclinical but also in clinical settings. Additionally, a thorough appreciation of the underlying biology has expanded the scope of research into potential therapeutic interventions. For instance, the pivotal role of altered telomere length in early CRC carcinogenesis, leading to chromosomal instability and telomere dysfunction, presents a promising avenue for future treatments. Thus, this review explores the advancements in CRC immunotherapy and telomere-targeted therapies, examining potential synergies and how these novel treatment modalities intersect to potentially enhance each other's efficacy, paving the way for promising future therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Chrysos
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece; (T.K.N.); (E.C.)
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (P.F.); (A.T.)
| | - John Souglakos
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Medical School, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - John Tsiaoussis
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (P.F.); (A.T.)
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Hakobyan M, Binder H, Arakelyan A. Pan-cancer analysis of telomere maintenance mechanisms. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107392. [PMID: 38763334 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107392] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres, protective caps at chromosome ends, maintain genomic stability and control cell lifespan. Dysregulated telomere maintenance mechanisms (TMMs) are cancer hallmarks, enabling unchecked cell proliferation. We conducted a pan-cancer evaluation of TMM using RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas for 33 different cancer types and analyzed the activities of telomerase-dependent (TEL) and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) TMM pathways in detail. To further characterize the TMM profiles, we categorized the tumors based on their ALT and TEL TMM pathway activities into five major phenotypes: ALT high TEL low, ALT low TEL low, ALT middle TEL middle, ALT high TEL high, and ALT low TEL high. These phenotypes refer to variations in telomere maintenance strategies, shedding light on the heterogeneous nature of telomere regulation in cancer. Moreover, we investigated the clinical implications of TMM phenotypes by examining their associations with clinical characteristics and patient outcomes. Specific TMM profiles were linked to specific survival patterns, emphasizing the potential of TMM profiling as a prognostic indicator and aiding in personalized cancer treatment strategies. Gene ontology analysis of the TMM phenotypes unveiled enriched biological processes associated with cell cycle regulation (both TEL and ALT), DNA replication (TEL), and chromosome dynamics (ALT) showing that telomere maintenance is tightly intertwined with cellular processes governing proliferation and genomic stability. Overall, our study provides an overview of the complexity of transcriptional regulation of telomere maintenance mechanisms in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meline Hakobyan
- Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Molecular Biology NAS RA, Yerevan, Armenia.
| | - Hans Binder
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany; Armenian Bioinformatics Institute, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Arsen Arakelyan
- Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Molecular Biology NAS RA, Yerevan, Armenia
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Tanemura M, Furukawa K, Mikamori M, Asaoka T, Yasuoka H, Marukawa D, Urata Y, Yamada D, Kobayashi S, Eguchi H. Clinical impact of high-quality testing for peritoneal lavage cytology in pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10199. [PMID: 38702437 PMCID: PMC11068862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60936-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients, the importance of peritoneal lavage cytology, which indicates unresectability, remains controversial. This study sought to determine whether positive peritoneal lavage cytology (CY+) precludes pancreatectomy. Furthermore, we propose a novel liquid biopsy using peritoneal lavage fluid to detect viable peritoneal tumor cells (v-PTCs) with TelomeScan F35, a telomerase-specific replication-selective adenovirus engineered to express green fluorescent protein. Resectable cytologically or histologically proven PDAC patients (n = 53) were enrolled. CY was conducted immediately following laparotomy. The resulting fluid was examined by conventional cytology (conv-CY; Papanicolaou staining and MOC-31 immunostaining) and by the novel technique (Telo-CY; using TelomeScan F35). Of them, 5 and 12 were conv-CY+ and Telo-CY+, respectively. All underwent pancreatectomy. The two double-CY+ (conv-CY+ and Telo-CY+) patients showed early peritoneal recurrence (P-rec) postoperatively, despite adjuvant chemotherapy. None of the three conv-CY+ Telo-CY- patients exhibited P-rec. Six of the 10 Telo-CY+ conv-CY- patients (60%) relapsed with P-rec. Of the remaining 38 double-CY- [conv-CY-, Telo-CY-, conv-CY± (Class III)] patients, 3 (8.3%) exhibited P-rec. Although conv-CY+ status predicted poor prognosis and a higher risk of P-rec, Telo-CY was more sensitive for detecting v-PTC. Staging laparoscopy and performing conv-CY and Telo-CY are needed to confirm the indication for pancreatectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Tanemura
- Department of Surgery, Rinku General Medical Center, 2-23 Rinku Orai-kita, Izumisano, Osaka, 598-8577, Japan.
| | - Kenta Furukawa
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Police Hospital, 10-31 Kitayamachyo, Tennouji-ku, Osaka, 543-0035, Japan
| | - Manabu Mikamori
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Police Hospital, 10-31 Kitayamachyo, Tennouji-ku, Osaka, 543-0035, Japan
| | - Tadafumi Asaoka
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Police Hospital, 10-31 Kitayamachyo, Tennouji-ku, Osaka, 543-0035, Japan
| | - Hironao Yasuoka
- Department of Pathology, Osaka Police Hospital, 10-31 Kitayamachyo, Tennouji-ku, Osaka, 543-0035, Japan
| | - Daiki Marukawa
- Department of Surgery, Rinku General Medical Center, 2-23 Rinku Orai-kita, Izumisano, Osaka, 598-8577, Japan
| | - Yasuo Urata
- Oncolys BioPharma Inc., Toranomon Towers 10F, 4-1-28 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-0001, Japan
| | - Daisaku Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shogo Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Mason CE, Sierra MA, Feng HJ, Bailey SM. Telomeres and aging: on and off the planet! Biogerontology 2024; 25:313-327. [PMID: 38581556 PMCID: PMC10998805 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-024-10098-7] [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] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Improving human healthspan in our rapidly aging population has never been more imperative. Telomeres, protective "caps" at the ends of linear chromosomes, are essential for maintaining genome stability of eukaryotic genomes. Due to their physical location and the "end-replication problem" first envisioned by Dr. Alexey Olovnikov, telomeres shorten with cell division, the implications of which are remarkably profound. Telomeres are hallmarks and molecular drivers of aging, as well as fundamental integrating components of the cumulative effects of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors that erode telomere length over time. Ongoing telomere attrition and the resulting limit to replicative potential imposed by cellular senescence serves a powerful tumor suppressor function, and also underlies aging and a spectrum of age-related degenerative pathologies, including reduced fertility, dementias, cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, very little data exists regarding the extraordinary stressors and exposures associated with long-duration space exploration and eventual habitation of other planets, nor how such missions will influence telomeres, reproduction, health, disease risk, and aging. Here, we briefly review our current understanding, which has advanced significantly in recent years as a result of the NASA Twins Study, the most comprehensive evaluation of human health effects associated with spaceflight ever conducted. Thus, the Twins Study is at the forefront of personalized space medicine approaches for astronauts and sets the stage for subsequent missions. We also extrapolate from current understanding to future missions, highlighting potential biological and biochemical strategies that may enable human survival, and consider the prospect of longevity in the extreme environment of space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine and WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria A Sierra
- The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine and WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional Computational Biology & Medicine Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Henry J Feng
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Susan M Bailey
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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Pérez González S, Heredia-Soto V, Girón de Francisco M, Pérez-Fernández E, Casans-Francés R, Mendiola Sabio M, González-Peramato P. Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase-Promoter Mutation in Young Patients with Bladder Tumors. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2845-2855. [PMID: 38666908 PMCID: PMC11049539 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46040178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The TERT (Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase) gene promoter mutation is one of the most prevalent mutations in urothelial bladder tumors and this mutation is related to bladder tumor progression. Our purpose was to evaluate the presence of this mutation in a population of patients who were first diagnosed at age ≤ 40 years and to examine its relationship with tumor characteristics and progression. A molecular study was performed to detect the two most prevalent mutations in the TERT promoter (C228T and C250T). The study included 29 patients, with a mean follow-up of 152 months. There were no statistically significant differences in the clinical or tumor characteristics according to the presence or absence of the mutation. Although the mutation group showed poorer recurrence-free survival (RFS), there was no statistically significant difference and there was no difference in progression-free survival by group (p > 0.05). The pTERT mutations in bladder tumor cells occurred less frequently in younger patients than in older patients, a finding that could indicate different mechanisms of carcinogenesis. The trend towards lower RFS in patients with mutated pTERT needs to be confirmed by further studies, given the small number of patients included in these studies due to the low incidence of bladder tumors in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victoria Heredia-Soto
- Translational Oncology Research Laboratory, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Cancer Network (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Rubén Casans-Francés
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Infanta Elena University Hospital, 28342 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mendiola Sabio
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Cancer Network (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Molecular Pathology and Therapeutic Targets Group, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Peramato
- Department of Pathology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cellular Engineering Laboratory, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
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Henriques CM, Ferreira MG. Telomere length is an epigenetic trait - Implications for the use of telomerase-deficient organisms to model human disease. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050581. [PMID: 38441152 PMCID: PMC10941657 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050581] [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] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere length, unlike most genetic traits, is epigenetic, in the sense that it is not fully coded by the genome. Telomeres vary in length and randomly assort to the progeny leaving some individuals with longer and others with shorter telomeres. Telomerase activity counteracts this by extending telomeres in the germline and during embryogenesis but sizeable variances remain in telomere length. This effect is exacerbated by the absence of fully active telomerase. Telomerase heterozygous animals (tert+/-) have reduced telomerase activity and their telomeres fail to be elongated to wild-type average length, meaning that - with every generation - they decrease. After a given number of successive generations of telomerase-insufficient crosses, telomeres become critically short and cause organismal defects that, in humans, are known as telomere biology disorders. Importantly, these defects also occur in wild-type (tert+/+) animals derived from such tert+/- incrosses. Despite these tert+/+ animals being proficient for telomerase, they have shorter than average telomere length and, although milder, develop phenotypes that are similar to those of telomerase mutants. Here, we discuss the impact of this phenomenon on human pathologies associated with telomere length, provide a brief overview of telomere biology across species and propose specific measures for working with telomerase-deficient zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina M. Henriques
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA) and Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d‘Azur, 06107 Nice, France
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Talati VP, Karn V, Gadewal N, Bastikar VA. Mechanistic influence of discreet conformation of human telomerase linker region. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38319038 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2310212] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 90% of malignancies have been shown to have human telomerase activity, establishing it as a viable therapeutic target. The crystal structure of telomerase was determined recently. However, the tertiary structure of the non-conserved flexible linker region remains unresolved. This study aims to predict the full-length tertiary structure of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT). Two strategies were employed to determine the full-length structure of hTERT (1132 amino acids); iterative threading and a conjoined model generated from machine learning and energy functions. After energy minimization, Ramachandran Plot analysis, and simulation; the conjoined model was considered of better quality and stability. The linker region of the conjoined depicted two helices from approximately 275-284 and 201-211 amino acids respectively in contrast to the iterative threading model which has a single helix. Moreover, the region was observed to undergo major structural changes throughout the simulation. These changes signify its flexibility which might be due to the region having a significant number of glycine and proline and could enhance the clamping movement.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun P Talati
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vamika Karn
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nikhil Gadewal
- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Virupaksha A Bastikar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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El Zarif T, Machaalani M, Nawfal R, Nassar AH, Xie W, Choueiri TK, Pomerantz M. TERT Promoter Mutations Frequency Across Race, Sex, and Cancer Type. Oncologist 2024; 29:8-14. [PMID: 37462445 PMCID: PMC10769781 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene promoter mutations have been explored, as biomarkers of improved survival for patients with cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. We sought to investigate their prevalence by race and sex across different cancer types to inform patient selection in clinical trials. RESULTS In this observational study, 31 925 patients with cancer underwent next-generation sequencing of their tumors with 88% (27 970) patients self-reported being Whites, 7.1% (2273) Asians, and 5.3% (1682) Blacks. Examining the distribution of TERT promoter mutations by race, White patients with melanoma harbored more TERT promoter mutations than Asian and Black patients (OR = 25.83; 95%CI, 6.84-217.42; P < .001). In contrast, Asian patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) harbored more TERT promoter mutations compared to White patients (OR = 2.47; 95%CI, 1.39-4.37; P = .004). In addition, the distribution of TERT promoter mutations differed by sex. Males were enriched for TERT gene promoter mutations compared to females with melanoma (OR = 1.82; 95%CI, 1.53-2.16; P < .001), cancer of unknown primary (OR = 1.96; 95%CI, 1.43-2.69; P < .001), hepatobiliary (OR = 3.89; 95%CI, 2.65-5.69; P < .001), and thyroid cancers (OR = 1.42; 95%CI, 1.10-1.84; P = .0087), while females were more enriched for TERT promoter mutations compared to males for HNC (OR = 0.56; 95%CI, 0.39-0.81; P = .0021). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of TERT gene promoter mutations varies among patients with cancer based on race and sex. These findings inform our understanding of cancer biology and can assist in the design of future clinical trials that leverage drugs targeting TERT promoter dependencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talal El Zarif
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marc Machaalani
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rashad Nawfal
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amin H Nassar
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Wanling Xie
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Toni K Choueiri
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark Pomerantz
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Kumar N, Sethi G. Telomerase and hallmarks of cancer: An intricate interplay governing cancer cell evolution. Cancer Lett 2023; 578:216459. [PMID: 37863351 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Transformed cells must acquire specific characteristics to be malignant. Weinberg and Hanahan characterize these characteristics as cancer hallmarks. Though these features are independently driven, substantial signaling crosstalk in transformed cells efficiently promotes these feature acquisitions. Telomerase is an enzyme complex that maintains telomere length. However, its main component, Telomere reverse transcriptase (TERT), has been found to interact with various signaling molecules like cMYC, NF-kB, BRG1 and cooperate in transcription and metabolic reprogramming, acting as a strong proponent of malignant features such as cell death resistance, sustained proliferation, angiogenesis activation, and metastasis, among others. It allows cells to avoid replicative senescence and achieve endless replicative potential. This review summarizes both the canonical and noncanonical functions of TERT and discusses how they promote cancer hallmarks. Understanding the role of Telomerase in promoting cancer hallmarks provides vital insight into the underlying mechanism of cancer genesis and progression and telomerase intervention as a possible therapeutic target for cancer treatment. More investigation into the precise molecular mechanisms of telomerase-mediated impacts on cancer hallmarks will contribute to developing more focused and customized cancer treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Kumar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology and NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
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Fan Y, Zheng C, Ma R, Wang J, Yang S, Ye Q. MMP19 Variants in Familial and Sporadic Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Lung 2023; 201:571-580. [PMID: 37971547 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-023-00652-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene variants have been identified in patients with familial or sporadic idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). These variants may partially account for the genetic risk of IPF. The aim of this study was to identify potential genes involved in both familial and sporadic IPF. METHODS A Han family in northern China with four members diagnosed with IPF was investigated in this observational study. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was used to identify germline variants underlying disease phenotypes in five members of this family. Candidate rare variants were validated by Sanger sequencing in samples from 16 family members and 119 patients with sporadic IPF. The plasma levels of proteins encoded by the above candidate genes were also examined in 16 family members, 119 other patients with sporadic IPF and 120 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. RESULTS In a Chinese Han family, MMP19 c.1222 C > T was identified in all familial IPF patients and six offspring from generations III and IV. This variant introduces a premature stop codon, which may damage protein function. Sanger sequencing revealed that 7.6% (9/119) of sporadic IPF patients harbored three MMP19 variants. The genetic risk analysis for pulmonary fibrosis showed that MMP19 c.1499 C > T and c.1316G > A were significantly associated with an increased risk of IPF (OR 3.66, p = 0.028 and OR 8.64, p < 0.001, respectively). The plasma levels of MMP19 were significantly higher in patients with sporadic or familial IPF than in healthy controls (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS MMP19 variants were identified in familial or sporadic IPF, thus providing a potential new clue into IPF pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Fan
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Critical Care, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Chunming Zheng
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China
- Department of Medical Research Center, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Ruimin Ma
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jingwei Wang
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Shuqiao Yang
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Qiao Ye
- Clinical Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.8 Worker's Stadium, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100020, China.
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Zamfir AS, Zabara ML, Arcana RI, Cernomaz TA, Zabara-Antal A, Marcu MTD, Trofor A, Zamfir CL, Crișan-Dabija R. Exploring the Role of Biomarkers Associated with Alveolar Damage and Dysfunction in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis-A Systematic Review. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1607. [PMID: 38003922 PMCID: PMC10672103 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13111607] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the most aggressive forms of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), marked by an ongoing, chronic fibrotic process within the lung tissue. IPF leads to an irreversible deterioration of lung function, ultimately resulting in an increased mortality rate. Therefore, the focus has shifted towards the biomarkers that might contribute to the early diagnosis, risk assessment, prognosis, and tracking of the treatment progress, including those associated with epithelial injury. METHODS We conducted this review through a systematic search of the relevant literature using established databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Selected articles were assessed, with data extracted and synthesized to provide an overview of the current understanding of the existing biomarkers for IPF. RESULTS Signs of epithelial cell damage hold promise as relevant biomarkers for IPF, consequently offering valuable support in its clinical care. Their global and standardized utilization remains limited due to a lack of comprehensive information of their implications in IPF. CONCLUSIONS Recognizing the aggressive nature of IPF among interstitial lung diseases and its profound impact on lung function and mortality, the exploration of biomarkers becomes pivotal for early diagnosis, risk assessment, prognostic evaluation, and therapy monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Simona Zamfir
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Department of Medical Sciences III, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihai Lucian Zabara
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Clinic of Surgery (II), St. Spiridon Emergency Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Raluca Ioana Arcana
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Doctoral School of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Tudor Andrei Cernomaz
- Department of Medical Sciences III, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Regional Institute of Oncology, 700483 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Zabara-Antal
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Doctoral School of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Marius Traian Dragoș Marcu
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Department of Medical Sciences I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Antigona Trofor
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Department of Medical Sciences III, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Carmen Lăcrămioara Zamfir
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Radu Crișan-Dabija
- Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.Z.); (R.I.A.); (A.T.); (R.C.-D.)
- Department of Medical Sciences III, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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14
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Romano F, Di Porzio A, Iaccarino N, Riccardi G, Di Lorenzo R, Laneri S, Pagano B, Amato J, Randazzo A. G-quadruplexes in cancer-related gene promoters: from identification to therapeutic targeting. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:745-773. [PMID: 37855085 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2271168] [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: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Guanine-rich DNA sequences can fold into four-stranded noncanonical secondary structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s) which are widely distributed in functional regions of the human genome, such as telomeres and gene promoter regions. Compelling evidence suggests their involvement in key genome functions such as gene expression and genome stability. Notably, the abundance of G4-forming sequences near transcription start sites suggests their potential involvement in regulating oncogenes. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of current knowledge on G4s in human oncogene promoters. The most representative G4-binding ligands have also been documented. The objective of this work is to present a comprehensive overview of the most promising targets for the development of novel and highly specific anticancer drugs capable of selectively impacting the expression of individual or a limited number of genes. EXPERT OPINION Modulation of G4 formation by specific ligands has been proposed as a powerful new tool to treat cancer through the control of oncogene expression. Actually, most of G4-binding small molecules seem to simultaneously target a range of gene promoter G4s, potentially influencing several critical driver genes in cancer, thus producing significant therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Di Porzio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzia Iaccarino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Sonia Laneri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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15
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Schnurr E, Volz KU, Mosetter K, Ghanaati S, Hueber R, Preussler C. Interaction of Telomere Length and Inflammatory Biomarkers Following Zirconia Implant Placement: A Case Series. J ORAL IMPLANTOL 2023; 49:524-531. [PMID: 38349660 DOI: 10.1563/aaid-joi-d-22-00236] [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: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Zirconia implants have gained popularity for their aesthetic appeal and biocompatibility, making them a preferred choice for anterior teeth replacement. This study explores the interaction between telomere length and inflammatory biomarkers in seven cases of zirconia implant placement to gain insights into postoperative cellular aging, inflammatory responses, and long-term outcomes. Zirconia implants offer advantages over titanium implants, as they do not corrode or release metal ions, leading to potential inflammation and implant failure. Monitoring immune and inflammatory biomarkers is essential to assess inflammation initiation, severity, and progression. C-reactive protein (CRP) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), play crucial roles in host immune responses, while anti-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-10 (IL-10), regulate and dampen immune responses. Achieving a delicate balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines is vital for maintaining a healthy immune response and preventing chronic inflammatory conditions. Telomeres, protective structures present at chromosome ends, influence cellular aging and mitochondrial function. Shorter telomeres are associated with impaired mitochondrial function, increased oxidative stress, and cellular senescence, while longer telomeres are linked to reduced inflammation and improved immune function. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for addressing age-related conditions and promoting overall well-being. In this case series, we investigated the interaction between telomere length and inflammatory biomarkers in patients who received zirconia dental implants. The study aims to improve our understanding of postoperative cellular aging, inflammatory responses, and the biocompatibility of zirconia implants, potentially leading to improved treatment protocols and patient outcomes. This innovative assessment of telomere length and inflammatory biomarkers in the context of zirconia implants provides novel insights into the field of dental implantology. By exploring the effects of zirconia implants on cellular health and inflammation, this study contributes to advancements in implant technology and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kurt Mosetter
- SDS: Swiss Dental Solutions, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
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16
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Han X, Hirschel A, Tsapekos M, Perez D, Vollmer D. In Vitro Assessment of Gold Nanoparticles on Telomerase Activity and Telomere Length in Human Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14273. [PMID: 37762576 PMCID: PMC10532081 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814273] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase activity coincides with lengthening of the ends of chromosomes known as telomeres. Telomere length is used as a marker for cellular aging. Telomeres shorten over time as cells divide, and certain bioactive compounds such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) may slow the shortening of telomeres by increasing telomerase activity. The objective of the present study is to assess the effect of AuNPs on telomerase activity and telomere length in human fibroblasts. Telomerase activity was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in primary human lung fibroblasts (IMR90) and using quantitative PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (Q-TRAP) in primary human dermal fibroblasts, neonatal (HDFn). Telomere length was determined by Telomere Analysis Technology (TAT®)assay in HDFn. In IMR90, all AuNP treatments showed significant increases in telomerase activity when compared to earlier passages. HDFn treated with AuNPs at 0 ppm, 0.05 ppm, 0.5 ppm, or 5 ppm did not show significant differences in telomerase activity compared to the control group. Significant differences in telomere length in HDFn were observed at 2 weeks of 0.05 and 0.5 ppm AuNPs under oxidative culture conditions as compared to the control group. The study showed preliminary evidence that AuNPs may increase telomerase activity and decelerate the shortening of telomeres in human fibroblasts, suggesting its potential anti-aging effects, which warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesheng Han
- Scientific Research Division, 4Life Research, Sandy, UT 84070, USA (D.V.)
| | - Alice Hirschel
- Scientific Research Division, 4Life Research, Sandy, UT 84070, USA (D.V.)
| | | | | | - David Vollmer
- Scientific Research Division, 4Life Research, Sandy, UT 84070, USA (D.V.)
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17
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Šetinc M, Zajc Petranović M, Slivšek G, Mijač S, Celinščak Ž, Stojanović Marković A, Bišof V, Peričić Salihović M, Škarić-Jurić T. Genes Involved in DNA Damage Cell Pathways and Health of the Oldest-Old (85+). Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1806. [PMID: 37761946 PMCID: PMC10530973 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091806] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Some sources report a connection of cellular senescence with chronic pathological conditions; however, the association between particular cellular processes and general health is rarely examined. This study aims to test the relationship of general health with DNA damage pathways that play a crucial role in senescence. The association of ten selected SNPs with subjective and objective general health and functional ability indicators has been tested in 314 oldest-old people from Croatia. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to simultaneously test the impact of variables potentially influencing targeted health and functional ability variables. The best model, explaining 37.1% of the variance, has six independent significant predictors of functional ability scores: rs16847897 in TERC, rs533984 in MRE11A, and rs4977756 in CDKN2B, chronic disease count, Mini-Mental State Examination scores, and age at surveying. In conclusion, the examined ten loci involved in DNA damage repair pathways showed a more significant association with self-rated health and functional ability than with the number of disease or prescribed medicaments. The more frequent, longevity-related homozygote (GG) in rs16847897 was associated with all three aspects of self-assessments-health, mobility, and independence-indicating that this TERC locus might have a true impact on the overall vitality of the oldest-old persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Šetinc
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
| | - Matea Zajc Petranović
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
| | - Goran Slivšek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (G.S.); (S.M.); (V.B.)
| | - Sandra Mijač
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (G.S.); (S.M.); (V.B.)
- Department of Science and Research, Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Željka Celinščak
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
| | - Anita Stojanović Marković
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
| | - Vesna Bišof
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (G.S.); (S.M.); (V.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Marijana Peričić Salihović
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
| | - Tatjana Škarić-Jurić
- Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.); (Ž.C.); (A.S.M.); (M.P.S.); (T.Š.-J.)
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Ali JH, Walter M. Combining old and new concepts in targeting telomerase for cancer therapy: transient, immediate, complete and combinatory attack (TICCA). Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:197. [PMID: 37679807 PMCID: PMC10483736 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03041-2] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase can overcome replicative senescence by elongation of telomeres but is also a specific element in most cancer cells. It is expressed more vastly than any other tumor marker. Telomerase as a tumor target inducing replicative immortality can be overcome by only one other mechanism: alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). This limits the probability to develop resistance to treatments. Moreover, telomerase inhibition offers some degree of specificity with a low risk of toxicity in normal cells. Nevertheless, only one telomerase antagonist reached late preclinical studies. The underlying causes, the pitfalls of telomerase-based therapies, and future chances based on recent technical advancements are summarized in this review. Based on new findings and approaches, we propose a concept how long-term survival in telomerase-based cancer therapies can be significantly improved: the TICCA (Transient Immediate Complete and Combinatory Attack) strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber Haj Ali
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Walter
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
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19
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Proia P, Rossi C, Alioto A, Amato A, Polizzotto C, Pagliaro A, Kuliś S, Baldassano S. MiRNAs Expression Modulates Osteogenesis in Response to Exercise and Nutrition. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1667. [PMID: 37761807 PMCID: PMC10529960 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091667] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, many articles have been published describing the impact of physical activity and diet on bone health. This review has aimed to figure out the possible epigenetic mechanisms that influence bone metabolism. Many studies highlighted the effects of macro and micronutrients combined with exercise on the regulation of gene expression through miRs. The present review will describe how physical activity and nutrition can prevent abnormal epigenetic regulation that otherwise could lead to bone-metabolism-related diseases, the most significant of which is osteoporosis. Nowadays, it is known that this effect can be carried out not only by endogenously produced miRs, but also through those intakes through the diet. Indeed, they have also been found in the transcriptome of animals and plants, and it is possible to hypothesise an interaction between miRNAs produced by different kingdoms and epigenetic influences on human gene expression. In particular, the key to the activation pathways triggered by diet and physical activity appears to be the activation of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), the expression of which is regulated by several miRs. Among the main miRs involved are exercise-induced miR21 and 21-5p, and food-induced miR 221-3p and 222-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Proia
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Via Pascoli 6, 90144 Palermo, Italy; (C.R.); (A.A.); (C.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Carlo Rossi
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Via Pascoli 6, 90144 Palermo, Italy; (C.R.); (A.A.); (C.P.); (A.P.)
- Centro Medico di Fisioterapia “Villa Sarina”, 91011 Alcamo, Italy
| | - Anna Alioto
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Via Pascoli 6, 90144 Palermo, Italy; (C.R.); (A.A.); (C.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandra Amato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia n°97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Caterina Polizzotto
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Via Pascoli 6, 90144 Palermo, Italy; (C.R.); (A.A.); (C.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Andrea Pagliaro
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Via Pascoli 6, 90144 Palermo, Italy; (C.R.); (A.A.); (C.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Szymon Kuliś
- Faculty of Physical Education, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Sara Baldassano
- Department of Biological Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
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Rivosecchi J, Cusanelli E. TERRA beyond cancer: the biology of telomeric repeat-containing RNAs in somatic and germ cells. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1224225. [PMID: 37636218 PMCID: PMC10448526 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1224225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The telomeric noncoding RNA TERRA is a key component of telomeres and it is widely expressed in normal as well as cancer cells. In the last 15 years, several publications have shed light on the role of TERRA in telomere homeostasis and cell survival in cancer cells. However, only few studies have investigated the regulation or the functions of TERRA in normal tissues. A better understanding of the biology of TERRA in non-cancer cells may provide unexpected insights into how these lncRNAs are transcribed and operate in cells, and their potential role in physiological processes, such as aging, age-related pathologies, inflammatory processes and human genetic diseases. In this review we aim to discuss the findings that have advanced our understanding of the biology of TERRA using non-cancer mammalian cells as a model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Rivosecchi
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology—CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
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21
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Chojak R, Fares J, Petrosyan E, Lesniak MS. Cellular senescence in glioma. J Neurooncol 2023; 164:11-29. [PMID: 37458855 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-023-04387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glioma is the most common primary brain tumor and is often associated with treatment resistance and poor prognosis. Standard treatment typically involves radiotherapy and temozolomide-based chemotherapy, both of which induce cellular senescence-a tumor suppression mechanism. DISCUSSION Gliomas employ various mechanisms to bypass or escape senescence and remain in a proliferative state. Importantly, senescent cells remain viable and secrete a large number of factors collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that, paradoxically, also have pro-tumorigenic effects. Furthermore, senescent cells may represent one form of tumor dormancy and play a role in glioma recurrence and progression. CONCLUSION In this article, we delineate an overview of senescence in the context of gliomas, including the mechanisms that lead to senescence induction, bypass, and escape. Furthermore, we examine the role of senescent cells in the tumor microenvironment and their role in tumor progression and recurrence. Additionally, we highlight potential therapeutic opportunities for targeting senescence in glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Chojak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jawad Fares
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Edgar Petrosyan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maciej S Lesniak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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De Felice B, Montanino C, Pinelli C, Nacca M, De Luca P. A novel Telomerase activity and microRNA-21 upregulation identified in a family with Palmoplantar keratoderma. Gene 2023:147600. [PMID: 37419429 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Palmoplantar keratoderma is a set of skin diseases with hyperkeratotic thickening of palms and soles which are characteristic of these heterogeneous group of keratinization disorders. Various genetic mutations, autosomal dominant or recessive, have been identified which may triggerpalmoplantar keratoderma, as KRT9 (Keratin 9), KRT1 (Keratin1), AQP5 (Aquaporin), SERPINB 7 (serine protease inhibitor). The identification of causal mutations is extremely important for the correct diagnosis. Here, we report the case of a family affected from Palmoplantar keratoderma caused by autosomal dominant KRT1 mutations (Unna-Thost disease). Telomerase activation and hTERT expression take a part in the process of cell proliferation and inflammation and microRNAs, as microRNA-21, are emerging as drivers in the regulation of telomerase activity. Here, the patients underwent KRT1 analysis genetic sequence, telomerase activity and miR-21 expression. Beside histopathology assay was performed. The patients presented thickening of the skin on soles of the feet and the palms of the hands, KRT1mutations and showed high expression levels of hTERT and hTR, the gene encoding for the telomeric subunits, and miR-21 (fold change >1.5 and p value =0.043), explicating the aberrant proliferation of epidermal layer and the inflammatory state characterizing palmoplantar keratoderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna De Felice
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DISTABIF), University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Concetta Montanino
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DISTABIF), University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Claudia Pinelli
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DISTABIF), University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Nacca
- University Hospital Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano, Via Palasciano, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Pasquale De Luca
- Department RIMAR, Sequencing and Molecular Analyses Center, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Napoli, Italy
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23
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Tire B, Ozturk S. Potential effects of assisted reproductive technology on telomere length and telomerase activity in human oocytes and early embryos. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:130. [PMID: 37400833 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01211-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences at eukaryotic chromosome ends and function in maintaining genome integrity and stability. These unique structures undergo shortening due to various factors including biological aging, consecutive DNA replication, oxidative stress, and genotoxic agents. Shortened telomeres can be lengthened by the enzyme telomerase and alternative lengthening of telomeres in germ cells, early embryos, stem cells, and activated lymphocytes. If telomeres reach to critical length, it may lead to genomic instability, chromosome segregation defects, aneuploidy, and apoptosis. These phenotypes also occur in the oocytes and early embryos, produced using assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Thus, a number of studies have examined the potential effects of ART applications such as ovarian stimulation, culture conditions, and cryopreservation procedures on telomeres. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed impacts of these applications on telomere length and telomerase activity in ART-derived oocytes and embryos. Further, we discussed use of these parameters in ART centers as a biomarker in determining oocyte and embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betul Tire
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.
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24
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Rotem O, Zer A, Yosef L, Beery E, Goldvaser H, Gutkin A, Levin R, Dudnik E, Berger T, Feinmesser M, Levy-Barda A, Lahav M, Raanani P, Uziel O. Blood-Derived Exosomal hTERT mRNA in Patients with Lung Cancer: Characterization and Correlation with Response to Therapy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1730. [PMID: 37371825 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061730] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telomerase (human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is considered a hallmark of cancer, being active in cancer cells but repressed in human somatic cells. As such, it has the potential to serve as a valid cancer biomarker. Exosomal hTERT mRNA can be detected in the serum of patients with solid malignancies but not in healthy individuals. We sought to evaluate the feasibility of measuring serum exosomal hTERT transcripts levels in patients with lung cancer. Methods: A prospective analysis of exosomal hTERT mRNA levels was determined in serum-derived exosomes from 76 patients with stage III-IV lung cancer (11 SCLC and 65 NSCLC). An hTERT level above RQ = 1.2 was considered "detectable" according to a previous receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) curve. Sequential measurements were obtained in 33 patients. Demographic and clinical data were collected retrospectively from patients' charts. Data on response to systemic therapy (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors) were collected by the treating physicians. Results: hTERT was detected in 53% (40/76) of patients with lung cancer (89% of SCLC and 46% of NSLCC). The mean hTERT levels were 3.7 in all 76 patients, 5.87 in SCLC patients, and 3.62 in NSCLC patients. In total, 25 of 43 patients with sequential measurements had detectable levels of hTERT. The sequential exosomal hTERT mRNA levels reflected the clinical course in 23 of them. Decreases in hTERT levels were detected in 17 and 5 patients with partial and complete response, respectively. Eleven patients with a progressive disease had an increase in the level of exosomal hTERT, and seven with stable disease presented increases in its exosomal levels. Another patient who progressed on the first line of treatment and had a partial response to the second line of treatment exhibited an increase in exosomal hTERT mRNA levels during the progression and a decrease during the response. Conclusions: Exosomal hTERT mRNA levels are elevated in over half of patients with lung cancer. The potential association between hTERT levels and response to therapy suggests its utility as a promising cancer biomarker for response to therapy. This issue should be further explored in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Rotem
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Alona Zer
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Lilach Yosef
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Einat Beery
- The Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Hadar Goldvaser
- Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Rehovot 7612001, Israel
| | - Anna Gutkin
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Ron Levin
- Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - Elizabeth Dudnik
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Tamar Berger
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Institute of Hematology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Meora Feinmesser
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Biobank, Department of Pathology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Adva Levy-Barda
- Biobank, Department of Pathology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Meir Lahav
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
- Institute of Hematology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Pia Raanani
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
- Institute of Hematology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
| | - Orit Uziel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
- Institute of Hematology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva 49100, Israel
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25
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Wang F, McCulloh DH, Chan K, Wiltshire A, McCaffrey C, Grifo JA, Keefe DL. The Landscape of Telomere Length and Telomerase in Human Embryos at Blastocyst Stage. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1200. [PMID: 37372380 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The telomere length of human blastocysts exceeds that of oocytes and telomerase activity increases after zygotic activation, peaking at the blastocyst stage. Yet, it is unknown whether aneuploid human embryos at the blastocyst stage exhibit a different profile of telomere length, telomerase gene expression, and telomerase activity compared to euploid embryos. In present study, 154 cryopreserved human blastocysts, donated by consenting patients, were thawed and assayed for telomere length, telomerase gene expression, and telomerase activity using real-time PCR (qPCR) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. Aneuploid blastocysts showed longer telomeres, higher telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) mRNA expression, and lower telomerase activity compared to euploid blastocysts. The TERT protein was found in all tested embryos via IF staining with anti-hTERT antibody, regardless of ploidy status. Moreover, telomere length or telomerase gene expression did not differ in aneuploid blastocysts between chromosomal gain or loss. Our data demonstrate that telomerase is activated and telomeres are maintained in all human blastocyst stage embryos. The robust telomerase gene expression and telomere maintenance, even in aneuploid human blastocysts, may explain why extended in vitro culture alone is insufficient to cull out aneuploid embryos during in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Kasey Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | | | - James A Grifo
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - David L Keefe
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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26
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El-Hawary SS, Elwekeel A, Abo El-Ela SO, Abdelmohsen UR, Owis AI. Metabolic profiling and biological activity of two Livistona species: L. chinensis and L. australis. RSC Adv 2023; 13:14855-14862. [PMID: 37197185 PMCID: PMC10184005 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra01229h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Livistona is a genus of family Arecaceae and widely grown in tropical areas. The phytochemical analysis of the leaves and fruits of two Livistona species, L. chinensis and L. australis were carried out using UPLC/MS and determination of the total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, in addition to the isolation and identification of five phenolic compounds and one fatty acid from L. australis fruits. The total phenolic compounds varied from 19.72 to 78.87 mg GAE g-1 dry plant, while the total flavonoid contents were in the range of 4.82-17.75 mg RE g-1 dry plant. The UPLC/MS analysis of the two species led to the characterization of forty-four metabolites belonging mainly to the different classes of flavonoids and phenolic acids, while the compounds isolated from L. australis fruits were identified as gallic acid, vanillic acid, protocatechuic acid, hyperoside, quercetin 3-O-α-d-arabinopyranoside and dodecanoic acid. The in vitro biological evaluation of L. australis leaves and fruits were estimated as anticholinesterase, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) potentiation and anti-diabetic through measuring the capacity of the extracts to inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-IV). The results revealed that the leaves showed remarkable anticholinesterase and antidiabetic activity compared to fruits with IC50 values of 65.55 ± 3.75 ng mL-1 and 90.8 ± 4.48 ng mL-1, respectively. In the TERT enzyme assay, the leaves extract triggered a 1.49-fold increase in telomerase activity. This work showed that the Livistona species are a good source for flavonoids and phenolics, which play an important role in anti-aging and the treatment of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and Alzheimer's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seham S El-Hawary
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University Cairo Egypt
| | - Ahlam Elwekeel
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University Beni-Suef Egypt
| | - Sara O Abo El-Ela
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University Beni-Suef Egypt
| | - Usama Ramadan Abdelmohsen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University Minia Egypt
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University New Minia Egypt
| | - Asmaa I Owis
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University Beni-Suef Egypt
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development Cairo Egypt
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27
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Song J, Li S, Jie Z, Qiao Y, Yang XJ, Chen HY, Xu JJ. Triple signal amplification strategy for ultrasensitive in situ imaging of intracellular telomerase RNA. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1256:341145. [PMID: 37037628 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal upregulation of telomerase RNA (TR) is a hallmark event at various stages of tumor progression, providing a universal marker for early diagnosis of cancer. Here, we have developed a triple signal amplification strategy for in situ visualization of TR in living cells, which sequentially incorporated the target-initiated strand displacement circuit, multidirectional rolling circle amplification (RCA), and Mg2+ DNAzyme-mediated amplification. All oligonucleotide probes and cofactors were transfected into cells in one go, and then escaped from lysosomes successfully. Owing to the specific base pairing, the amplification cascades could only be triggered by TR and performed as programmed, resulting in a satisfactory signal-to-background ratio. Especially, the netlike DNA structure generated by RCA encapsulated high concentrations of DNAzyme and substrates (FQS) in a local region, thereby improving the reaction efficiency and kinetics of the third amplification cycle. Under optimal conditions, the proposed method exhibited ultrasensitive detection of TR mimic with a detection limit at pM level. Most importantly, after transfection with the proposed sensing platform, tumor cells can be easily distinguished from normal cells based on TR abundance-related fluorescence signal, providing a new insight into initial cancer screening.
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28
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Yeh TJ, Luo CW, Du JS, Huang CT, Wang MH, Chuang TM, Gau YC, Cho SF, Liu YC, Hsiao HH, Chen LT, Pan MR, Wang HC, Moi SH. Deciphering the Functions of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase in Head and Neck Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:691. [PMID: 36979671 PMCID: PMC10044978 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are among the ten leading malignancies worldwide. Despite significant progress in all therapeutic modalities, predictive biomarkers, and targeted therapies for HNCs are limited and the survival rate is unsatisfactory. The importance of telomere maintenance via telomerase reactivation in carcinogenesis has been demonstrated in recent decades. Several mechanisms could activate telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), the most common of which is promoter alternation. Two major hotspot TERT promoter mutations (C228T and C250T) have been reported in different malignancies such as melanoma, genitourinary cancers, CNS tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma, thyroid cancers, sarcomas, and HNCs. The frequencies of TERT promoter mutations vary widely across tumors and is quite high in HNCs (11.9-64.7%). These mutations have been reported to be more enriched in oral cavity SCCs and HPV-negative tumors. The association between TERT promoter mutations and poor survival has also been demonstrated. Till now, several therapeutic strategies targeting telomerase have been developed although only a few drugs have been used in clinical trials. Here, we briefly review and summarize our current understanding and evidence of TERT promoter mutations in HNC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Jang Yeh
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Wen Luo
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Cosmetic Science and Institute of Cosmetic Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 717, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Shiun Du
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Tzu Huang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hung Wang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Tzer-Ming Chuang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Ching Gau
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Feng Cho
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chang Liu
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Hua Hsiao
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ren Pan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Wang
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Sin-Hua Moi
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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The hTERT-p50 homodimer inhibits PLEKHA7 expression to promote gastric cancer invasion and metastasis. Oncogene 2023; 42:1144-1156. [PMID: 36823376 PMCID: PMC10063444 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02630-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Although accumulating evidence has highlighted the molecular mechanisms by which hTERT promotes tumour cell invasion and metastasis, the molecular mechanisms of the properties enabling hTERT to contribute to invasion and metastasis have not been clearly illustrated. Here, we report that hTERT promotes gastric cancer invasion and metastasis by recruiting p50 to synergistically inhibit PLEKHA7 expression. We observed that the expression of PLEKHA7 in gastric cancer was significantly negatively associated with the TNM stage and lymphatic metastasis and that decreased PLEKHA7 expression dramatically increased invasion and metastasis in gastric cancer cells. Further mechanistic research showed that hTERT directly regulates PLEKHA7 expression by binding p50 and recruiting the hTERT/p50 complex to the PLEKHA7 promoter. Increased hTERT dramatically decreased PLEKHA7 expression and promoted invasion and metastasis in gastric cancer cells. The hTERT-mediated invasion/metastasis properties at least partially depended on PLEKHA7. Our work uncovers a novel molecular mechanism underlying invasion/metastasis in gastric cancer orchestrated by hTERT and p50.
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30
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Lv BB, Yang CL, Tan ZX, Zheng L, Li MD, Jiang YL, Liu L, Tang MM, Hua DX, Yang J, Xu DX, Zhao H, Fu L. Association between cadmium exposure and pulmonary function reduction: Potential mediating role of telomere attrition in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 251:114548. [PMID: 36652742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental cadmium (Cd) exposure is linked to pulmonary function injury in the general population. But, the association between blood Cd concentration and pulmonary function has not been investigated thoroughly in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, and the potential mechanisms are unclear. METHODS All eligible 789 COPD patients were enrolled from Anhui COPD cohort. Blood specimens and clinical information were collected. Pulmonary function test was conducted. The subunit of telomerase, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), was determined through enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blood Cd was measured via inductively coupled-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). RESULTS Blood Cd was negatively and dose-dependently associated with pulmonary function. Each 1-unit increase of blood Cd was associated with 0.861 L decline in FVC, 0.648 L decline in FEV1, 5.938 % decline in FEV1/FVC %, and 22.098 % decline in FEV1 % among COPD patients, respectively. Age, current-smoking, self-cooking and higher smoking amount aggravated Cd-evoked pulmonary function decrease. Additionally, there was an inversely dose-response association between Cd concentration and TERT in COPD patients. Elevated TERT obviously mediated 29.53 %, 37.50 % and 19.48 % of Cd-evoked FVC, FEV1, and FEV1 % declines in COPD patients, respectively. CONCLUSION Blood Cd concentration is strongly associated with the decline of pulmonary function and telomerase activity among COPD patients. Telomere attrition partially mediates Cd-induced pulmonary function decline, suggesting an underlying mechanistic role of telomere attrition in pulmonary function decline from Cd exposure in COPD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bian-Bian Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Chun-Lan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Zhu-Xia Tan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Ling Zheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Meng-Die Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Ya-Lin Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Bozhou People's Hospital, Bozhou, Anhui 236800, China
| | - Ling Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, People's Hospital of Yingshang, Fuyang, Anhui 236000, China
| | - Min-Min Tang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Dong-Xu Hua
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China.
| | - Lin Fu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
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31
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Bignoux MJ, Otgaar TC, Bernert M, Weiss SFT, Ferreira E. Downregulation of LRP/LR with siRNA inhibits several cancer hallmarks in lung cancer cells. FEBS Open Bio 2023; 13:323-340. [PMID: 36579897 PMCID: PMC9900088 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality rates of cancer are growing rapidly worldwide, with lung cancer being the most commonly occurring cancer in males. Human carcinomas circumvent the inhibitory pathways induced by DNA damage and senescence through the upregulation of telomerase activity. The 37 kDa/67 kDa laminin receptor (LRP/LR) is a cell surface receptor which plays a role in several cancer hallmarks, including metastasis, angiogenesis, cell viability maintenance, apoptotic evasion, and mediating telomerase activity. We have previously shown that the knockdown of LRP/LR with an LRP-specific siRNA significantly impedes adhesion and invasion, induces apoptosis, and inhibits telomerase activity in various cancer cell lines in vitro. Here, we investigated the effect of downregulating LRP/LR with LRP-specific siRNA in A549 lung cancer cells. Downregulation of LRP/LR resulted in a significant decrease in cell viability, migration potential, and telomerase activity, as well as a significant increase in apoptosis. Proteomic analysis further suggested the re-establishment of immune control over the lung cancer cells, a previously unidentified facet of LRP downregulation in cancer. Altogether, we suggest that targeting LRP/LR for downregulation may have therapeutic potential for inhibiting several cancer hallmarks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique J. Bignoux
- School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Tyrone C. Otgaar
- School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Martin Bernert
- School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Stefan F. T. Weiss
- School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Eloise Ferreira
- School of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
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32
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Wani AK, Akhtar N, Sharma A, El-Zahaby SA. Fighting Carcinogenesis with Plant Metabolites by Weakening Proliferative Signaling and Disabling Replicative Immortality Networks of Rapidly Dividing and Invading Cancerous Cells. Curr Drug Deliv 2023; 20:371-386. [PMID: 35422214 DOI: 10.2174/1567201819666220414085606] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer, an uncontrolled multistage disease causing swift division of cells, is a leading disease with the highest mortality rate. Cellular heterogeneity, evading growth suppressors, resisting cell death, and replicative immortality drive the tumor progression by resisting the therapeutic action of existing anticancer drugs through a series of intrinsic and extrinsic cellular interactions. The innate cellular mechanisms also regulate the replication process as a fence against proliferative signaling, enabling replicative immortality through telomere dysfunction. AREA COVERED The conventional genotoxic drugs have several off-target and collateral side effects associated with them. Thus, the need for the therapies targeting cyclin-dependent kinases or P13K signaling pathway to expose cancer cells to immune destruction, deactivation of invasion and metastasis, and maintaining cellular energetics is imperative. Compounds with anticancer attributes isolated from plants and rich in alkaloids, terpenes, and polyphenols have proven to be less toxic and highly targetspecific, making them biologically significant. This has opened a gateway for the exploration of more novel plant molecules by signifying their role as anticancer agents in synergy and alone, making them more effective than the existing cytotoxic regimens. EXPERT OPINION In this context, the current review presented recent data on cancer cases around the globe, along with discussing the fundamentals of proliferative signaling and replicative immortality of cancer cells. Recent findings were also highlighted, including antiproliferative and antireplicative action of plant-derived compounds, besides explaining the need for improving drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atif Khurshid Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Punjab (144411), India
| | - Nahid Akhtar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Punjab (144411), India
| | - Arun Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Punjab (144411), India
| | - Sally A El-Zahaby
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
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33
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Sepp T, Meitern R, Heidinger B, Noreikiene K, Rattiste K, Hõrak P, Saks L, Kittilson J, Urvik J, Giraudeau M. Parental age does not influence offspring telomeres during early life in common gulls (Larus canus). Mol Ecol 2022; 31:6197-6207. [PMID: 33772917 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Parental age can affect offspring telomere length through heritable and epigenetic-like effects, but at what stage during development these effects are established is not well known. To address this, we conducted a cross-fostering experiment in common gulls (Larus canus) that enabled us distinguish between pre- and post-natal parental age effects on offspring telomere length. Whole clutches were exchanged after clutch completion within and between parental age classes (young and old) and blood samples were collected from chicks at hatching and during the fastest growth phase (11 days later) to measure telomeres. Neither the ages of the natal nor the foster parents predicted the telomere length or the change in telomere lengths of their chicks. Telomere length (TL) was repeatable within chicks, but increased across development (repeatability = 0.55, intraclass correlation coefficient within sampling events 0.934). Telomere length and the change in telomere length were not predicted by post-natal growth rate. Taken together, these findings suggest that in common gulls, telomere length during early life is not influenced by parental age or growth rate, which may indicate that protective mechanisms buffer telomeres from external conditions during development in this relatively long-lived species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuul Sepp
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Richard Meitern
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Britt Heidinger
- Biological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Kristina Noreikiene
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kalev Rattiste
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Peeter Hõrak
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Lauri Saks
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jeffrey Kittilson
- Biological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Janek Urvik
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mathieu Giraudeau
- CREEC, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.,MIVEGEC, UMR IRD/CNRS/UM 5290, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
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34
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Tobler M, Gómez-Blanco D, Hegemann A, Lapa M, Neto JM, Tarka M, Xiong Y, Hasselquist D. Telomeres in ecology and evolution: A review and classification of hypotheses. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:5946-5965. [PMID: 34865259 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Research on telomeres in the fields of ecology and evolution has been rapidly expanding over the last two decades. This has resulted in the formulation of a multitude of, often name-given, hypotheses related to the associations between telomeres and life-history traits or fitness-facilitating processes (and the mechanisms underlying them). However, the differences (or similarities) between the various hypotheses, which can originate from different research fields, are often not obvious. Our aim here is therefore to give an overview of the hypotheses that are of interest in ecology and evolution and to provide two frameworks that help discriminate among them. We group the hypotheses (i) based on their association with different research questions, and (ii) using a hierarchical approach that builds on the assumptions they make, such as about causality of telomere length/shortening and/or the proposed functional consequences of telomere shortening on organism performance. Both our frameworks show that there exist parallel lines of thoughts in different research fields. Moreover, they also clearly illustrate that there are in many cases competing hypotheses within clusters, and that some of these even have contradictory assumptions and/or predictions. We also touch upon two topics in telomere research that would benefit from further conceptualization. This review should help researchers, both those familiar with and those new to the subject, to identify future avenues of research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arne Hegemann
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mariana Lapa
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Júlio M Neto
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maja Tarka
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ye Xiong
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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35
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Wang SS, Zhang X, Ke ZZ, Wen XY, Li WD, Liu WB, Zhuang XD, Liao LZ. D-galactose-induced cardiac ageing: A review of model establishment and potential interventions. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:5335-5359. [PMID: 36251271 PMCID: PMC9639053 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17580] [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: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is highly prevalent in an ageing society. The increased incidence and mortality rates of CVD are global issues endangering human health. There is an urgent requirement for understanding the aetiology and pathogenesis of CVD and developing possible interventions for preventing CVD in ageing hearts. It is necessary to select appropriate models and treatment methods. The D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing model possesses the advantages of low mortality, short time and low cost and has been increasingly used in the study of cardiovascular diseases in recent years. Therefore, understanding the latest progress in D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing is valuable. This review highlights the recent progress and potential therapeutic interventions used in D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing in recent years by providing a comprehensive summary of D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing in vivo and in vitro. This review may serve as reference literature for future research on age‐related heart diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sui-Sui Wang
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Zhi Ke
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Yun Wen
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Dong Li
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Bin Liu
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Zhuang
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Zhen Liao
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Light and Health, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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36
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Chaudhary A, Bhardwaj SK, Khan A, Srivastava A, Sinha KK, Ali M, Haque R. Combinatorial Effect of Arsenic and Herbal Compounds in Telomerase-Mediated Apoptosis Induction in Liver Cancer. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 201:3300-3310. [PMID: 36192614 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03430-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Tumour illness and its resistance against existing anticancer therapies pose a serious health concern globally despite the progressive advancement of therapeutic options. The prevailing treatment of HCC using numerous antitumor agents has inflated long-lived complete remissions, but a percentage of individuals still die due to disease recurrence, indicating a need for further exploration of possible anti-tumour regimes. We aim to boost the effectiveness of the HCC treatment by conducting current investigations evaluating the effect of arsenic trioxide (ATO) with different herbal compounds like quercetin and aloe-emodin against liver tumour via inhibition of telomerase, a pro-cancer enzyme. The anticancer activity of ATO with herbal compounds was investigated in human control liver cell line (Wrl-68) and cancer liver cell line (HepG2) at different time intervals. Viability and cytotoxicity in response to combinatorial drugs were assessed in vitro by trypan blue dye exclusion assay and MTT and WST assay. Apoptosis was analysed by annexin V/PI assay, and the expression of telomerase and apoptosis-regulating proteins was evaluated by immunoblotting and qRT-PCR. Arsenic trioxide in combination with quercetin and aloe-emodin reduced cell viability in cancerous cells compared to normal cells by inducing apoptosis, downregulating telomerase and Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic protein) and upregulating the expression of Bax (pro-apoptotic protein). ATO exhibited significant anticancer effects due to the synergistic effects of quercetin and aloe-emodin in liver tumour cells. The current study data collectively suggest that a successful inhibition of cancer growth by the combination of ATO and tested herbal medicines against liver tumour growth is via the inhibition of telomerase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Chaudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Earth Biological and Environmental Sciences, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Sadhan Kumar Bhardwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Earth Biological and Environmental Sciences, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Azmi Khan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Earth Biological and Environmental Sciences, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Amrita Srivastava
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Earth Biological and Environmental Sciences, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India
| | - Kislay Kumar Sinha
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, Bihar, India
| | - Mehboob Ali
- Toxicology Invivotek, Genesis Biotech Company Hamilton, Hamilton Township, NJ, 08691, USA
| | - Rizwanul Haque
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Earth Biological and Environmental Sciences, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Bihar, India.
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37
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Cheng P, Zhao X, Katsnelson L, Camacho-Hernandez EM, Mermerian A, Mays JC, Lippman SM, Rosales-Alvarez RE, Moya R, Shwetar J, Grun D, Fenyo D, Davoli T. Proteogenomic analysis of cancer aneuploidy and normal tissues reveals divergent modes of gene regulation across cellular pathways. eLife 2022; 11:75227. [PMID: 36129397 PMCID: PMC9491860 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75227] [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: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
How cells control gene expression is a fundamental question. The relative contribution of protein-level and RNA-level regulation to this process remains unclear. Here, we perform a proteogenomic analysis of tumors and untransformed cells containing somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs). By revealing how cells regulate RNA and protein abundances of genes with SCNAs, we provide insights into the rules of gene regulation. Protein complex genes have a strong protein-level regulation while non-complex genes have a strong RNA-level regulation. Notable exceptions are plasma membrane protein complex genes, which show a weak protein-level regulation and a stronger RNA-level regulation. Strikingly, we find a strong negative association between the degree of RNA-level and protein-level regulation across genes and cellular pathways. Moreover, genes participating in the same pathway show a similar degree of RNA- and protein-level regulation. Pathways including translation, splicing, RNA processing, and mitochondrial function show a stronger protein-level regulation while cell adhesion and migration pathways show a stronger RNA-level regulation. These results suggest that the evolution of gene regulation is shaped by functional constraints and that many cellular pathways tend to evolve one predominant mechanism of gene regulation at the protein level or at the RNA level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Cheng
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Xin Zhao
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Lizabeth Katsnelson
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Elaine M Camacho-Hernandez
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Angela Mermerian
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Joseph C Mays
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Scott M Lippman
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Reyna Edith Rosales-Alvarez
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School for Immunobiology, Epigenetics, and Metabolism, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Raquel Moya
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States.,Department of Pathology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Jasmine Shwetar
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Dominic Grun
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Center for Infection Research, Würzburg, Germany
| | - David Fenyo
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
| | - Teresa Davoli
- Institute for Systems Genetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States
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38
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Ott P, Araúzo-Bravo MJ, Hoffmann MJ, Poyet C, Bendhack ML, Santourlidis S, Erichsen L. Differential DNA Methylation of THOR and hTAPAS in the Regulation of hTERT and the Diagnosis of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184384. [PMID: 36139544 PMCID: PMC9497117 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Because of its high prevalence of >45% in 9 out of 11 (82%) cancer types screened, THOR hypermethylation has been suggested to be a frequent telomerase-activating mechanism in hTERT-expressing tumor types, e.g., in cancers of the prostate, breast, blood, colon, lung, bladder, and brain. In this prime example, we present detailed DNA methylation profiles in urothelial cancer that reveal the exact positions of the most differentially methylated CpG dinucleotides within the THOR region in order to design an efficient Methylation-Specific PCR (MSPCR) approach for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Furthermore, our data suggest an epigenetic mechanism regulating hTERT expression through the methylation status of THOR and lncRNA hTAPAS. Abstract Background: Although DNA methylation in the gene promoters usually represses gene expression, the TERT hypermethylated oncological region (THOR) located 5′ of the hTERT gene is hypermethylated when hTERT is expressed in diverse cancer types, including urothelial cancer (UC). Methods: Comprehensive MeDIP and DNA methylation array analyses complemented by the technically independent method of bisulfite genomic sequencing were applied on pathologically reviewed and classified urothelial carcinoma specimens and healthy urothelial tissue samples to reveal the methylation status of THOR in detail. Results: The detailed DNA methylation profiles reveal the exact positions of differentially methylated CpG dinucleotides within THOR in urothelial cancer and provide evidence ofa diverging role of methylation of these CpGs in the regulation of hTERT. In particular, our data suggest a regulating mechanism in which THOR methylation acts on hTERT expression through epigenetic silencing of the lncRNA hTERT antisense promoter-associated (hTAPAS), which represses hTERT. Conclusions: These findings precisely define the most differentially methylated CpGs of THOR in early urothelial cancer, enabling optimal design of Methylation-Specific PCR (MSPCR) primers to reliably probe these methylation differences for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. In addition, this strategy presents a prime example that is also applicable to many other malignancies. Finally, the first evidence for the underlying epigenetic mechanism regulating hTERT expression through the methylation status of THOR is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Ott
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Marcos J. Araúzo-Bravo
- Group of Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Michèle J. Hoffmann
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Cedric Poyet
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marcelo L. Bendhack
- Department of Urology, University Hospital, Positivo University, Curitiba 80420-011, Brazil
| | - Simeon Santourlidis
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (L.E.)
| | - Lars Erichsen
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (L.E.)
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Noguera JC, Velando A. Maternal testosterone affects offspring telomerase activity in a long-lived seabird. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9281. [PMID: 36110870 PMCID: PMC9465397 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9281] [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: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are a group of steroid hormones that have long been proposed as a mechanism underpinning intergenerational plasticity. In birds, maternally allocated egg testosterone, one of the main androgens in vertebrates, affects a wide variety of offspring phenotypic traits but the mechanisms underlying this form of intergenerational plasticity are not yet well understood. Recent in vitro and animal model studies have shown that telomerase expression and activity are important targets of androgen signaling. The telomerase enzyme is known for its repair function on telomeres, the DNA-protein complexes at the ends of chromosomes that are involved in genomic integrity and cell aging. However, the role of maternal testosterone in influencing offspring telomerase levels in natural populations and its consequences on telomere length and potentially on offspring development is still unknown. Here, by experimentally modifying the level of egg testosterone in a natural population of yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis), we show that chicks hatched from testosterone-treated eggs had higher average levels of telomerase and faster growth than controls during the first week of life. While testosterone-treated chicks also tended to have longer telomeres than controls at hatching this difference disappeared by day 6 of age. Overall, our results suggest that maternal testosterone may have a potential adaptive value by promoting offspring growth and presumably telomerase levels, as this enzyme plays other important physiological functions (e.g., stress resistance, cell signaling, or tissue genesis) besides telomere lengthening. Nonetheless, our knowledge of the potential adaptive function of telomerase in natural populations is scarce and so the potential pathways linking maternal hormones, offspring telomerase, and fitness should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose C Noguera
- Grupo de Ecología Animal (GEA), Centro de Investigación Marina (CIM) Universidad de Vigo Vigo Spain
| | - Alberto Velando
- Grupo de Ecología Animal (GEA), Centro de Investigación Marina (CIM) Universidad de Vigo Vigo Spain
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40
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Jin R, Cao X, Lu M, Gao Q, Ma T. The intersection molecule MDA5 in Cancer and COVID-19. Front Immunol 2022; 13:963051. [PMID: 36119095 PMCID: PMC9471860 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.963051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The connections between pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) constitutes the crucial signaling pathways in the innate immune system. Cytoplasmic nucleic acid sensor melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) serves as an important pattern recognition receptor in the innate immune system by recognizing viral RNA. MDA5 also plays a role in identifying the cytoplasmic RNA from damaged, dead cancer cells or autoimmune diseases. MDA5’s recognition of RNA triggers innate immune responses, induces interferon (IFN) response and a series of subsequent signaling pathways to produce immunomodulatory factors and inflammatory cytokines. Here we review the latest progress of MDA5 functions in triggering anti-tumor immunity by sensing cytoplasmic dsRNA, and recognizing SARS-CoV-2 virus infection for antiviral response, in which the virus utilizes multiple ways to evade the host defense mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjing Jin
- Cancer Research Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqing Cao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Mingjun Lu
- Cancer Research Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Gao
- Cancer Research Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Teng Ma
- Cancer Research Center, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Teng Ma,
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41
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Taheri M, Ghafouri-Fard S, Najafi S, Kallenbach J, Keramatfar E, Atri Roozbahani G, Heidari Horestani M, Hussen BM, Baniahmad A. Hormonal regulation of telomerase activity and hTERT expression in steroid-regulated tissues and cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:258. [PMID: 35974340 PMCID: PMC9380309 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02678-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Naturally, in somatic cells chromosome ends (telomeres) shorten during each cell division. This process ensures to limit proliferation of somatic cells to avoid malignant proliferation; however, it leads to proliferative senescence. Telomerase contains the reverse transcriptase TERT, which together with the TERC component, is responsible for protection of genome integrity by preventing shortening of telomeres through adding repetitive sequences. In addition, telomerase has non-telomeric function and supports growth factor independent growth. Unlike somatic cells, telomerase is detectable in stem cells, germ line cells, and cancer cells to support self-renewal and expansion. Elevated telomerase activity is reported in almost all of human cancers. Increased expression of hTERT gene or its reactivation is required for limitless cellular proliferation in immortal malignant cells. In hormonally regulated tissues as well as in prostate, breast and endometrial cancers, telomerase activity and hTERT expression are under control of steroid sex hormones and growth factors. Also, a number of hormones and growth factors are known to play a role in the carcinogenesis via regulation of hTERT levels or telomerase activity. Understanding the role of hormones in interaction with telomerase may help finding therapeutical targets for anticancer strategies. In this review, we outline the roles and functions of several steroid hormones and growth factors in telomerase regulation, particularly in hormone regulated cancers such as prostate, breast and endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Taheri
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Julia Kallenbach
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Elmira Keramatfar
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | - Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq.,Center of Research and Strategic Studies, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Aria Baniahmad
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, 07740, Jena, Germany.
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Montero‐Conde C, Leandro‐García LJ, Martínez‐Montes ÁM, Martínez P, Moya FJ, Letón R, Gil E, Martínez‐Puente N, Guadalix S, Currás‐Freixes M, García‐Tobar L, Zafon C, Jordà M, Riesco‐Eizaguirre G, González‐García P, Monteagudo M, Torres‐Pérez R, Mancikova V, Ruiz‐Llorente S, Pérez‐Martínez M, Pita G, Galofré JC, Gonzalez‐Neira A, Cascón A, Rodríguez‐Antona C, Megías D, Blasco MA, Caleiras E, Rodríguez‐Perales S, Robledo M. Comprehensive molecular analysis of immortalization hallmarks in thyroid cancer reveals new prognostic markers. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1001. [PMID: 35979662 PMCID: PMC9386325 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comprehensive molecular studies on tumours are needed to delineate immortalization process steps and identify sensitive prognostic biomarkers in thyroid cancer. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, we extensively characterize telomere-related alterations in a series of 106 thyroid tumours with heterogeneous clinical outcomes. Using a custom-designed RNA-seq panel, we identified five telomerase holoenzyme-complex genes upregulated in clinically aggressive tumours compared to tumours from long-term disease-free patients, being TERT and TERC denoted as independent prognostic markers by multivariate regression model analysis. Characterization of alterations related to TERT re-expression revealed that promoter mutations, methylation and/or copy gains exclusively co-occurred in clinically aggressive tumours. Quantitative-FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) analysis of telomere lengths showed a significant shortening in these carcinomas, which matched with a high proliferative rate measured by Ki-67 immunohistochemistry. RNA-seq data analysis indicated that short-telomere tumours exhibit an increased transcriptional activity in the 5-Mb-subtelomeric regions, site of several telomerase-complex genes. Gene upregulation enrichment was significant for specific chromosome-ends such as the 5p, where TERT is located. Co-FISH analysis of 5p-end and TERT loci showed a more relaxed chromatin configuration in short telomere-length tumours compared to normal telomere-length tumours. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings support that telomere shortening leads to a 5p subtelomeric region reorganization, facilitating the transcription and accumulation of alterations at TERT-locus.
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Monteiro AR, Ramos CIV, Lourenço LMO, Fateixa S, Rodrigues J, Neves MGPMS, Trindade T. Interfacial assembly of zinc(II) phthalocyanines on graphene oxide (GO): Stable "turn-off-on" nanoplatforms to detect G-quadruplexes (G4). J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 627:900-912. [PMID: 35901569 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.07.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The aggregation of phthalocyanines (Pcs) enfeebles their suitability as G-quadruplex (G4) ligands over time. It is hypothesized that the interfacial assembly of Pcs on graphene oxide (GO) influences intermolecular interactions, thereby affecting their physicochemical properties and inducing stabilization of Pcs in solution. Hence, the stacking of Pcs on GO could be tuned to create nanosystems with the ability to detect G4 for longer periods through a slow release of Pcs. EXPERIMENTS Four cationic structurally-related zinc(II) phthalocyanines (ZnPc) were non-covalently assembled on GO by ultrasonic exfoliation. A comprehensive characterization of ZnPcs@GO was carried out by spectroscopic techniques and electron microscopy to understand the organization of ZnPcs on GO. The fluorescence of ZnPcs@GO was studied in the presence of G4 (T2G5T)4 and duplex ds26 through spectrofluorimetric titrations and monitored along time. FINDINGS GO induced a re-organization of the ZnPcs mostly to J-aggregates and quenched their original fluorescence up to 98 % ("turn-off"). In general, ZnPcs@GO recovered their fluorescence ("turn-on") after the titrations and showed affinity to G4 (KD up to 1.92 μM). This is the first report that highlights the contribution of GO interfaces to assemble ZnPcs and allow their slow and controlled release to detect G4 over longer periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Monteiro
- CICECO, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Catarina I V Ramos
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Leandro M O Lourenço
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sara Fateixa
- CICECO, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Joana Rodrigues
- I3N, Department of Physics, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Maria G P M S Neves
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Tito Trindade
- CICECO, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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Monsen RC, Maguire JM, DeLeeuw LW, Chaires JB, Trent JO. Drug discovery of small molecules targeting the higher-order hTERT promoter G-quadruplex. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270165. [PMID: 35709230 PMCID: PMC9202945 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA G-quadruplexes (G4s) are now widely accepted as viable targets in the pursuit of anticancer therapeutics. To date, few small molecules have been identified that exhibit selectivity for G4s over alternative forms of DNA, such as the ubiquitous duplex. We posit that the lack of current ligand specificity arises for multiple reasons: G4 atomic models are often small, monomeric, single quadruplex structures with few or no druggable pockets; targeting G-tetrad faces frequently results in the enrichment of extended electron-deficient polyaromatic end-pasting scaffolds; and virtual drug discovery efforts often under-sample chemical search space. We show that by addressing these issues we can enrich for non-standard molecular templates that exhibit high selectivity towards G4s over other forms of DNA. We performed an extensive virtual screen against the higher-order hTERT core promoter G4 that we have previously characterized, targeting 12 of its unique loop and groove pockets using libraries containing 40 million drug-like compounds for each screen. Using our drug discovery funnel approach, which utilizes high-throughput fluorescence thermal shift assay (FTSA) screens, microscale thermophoresis (MST), and orthogonal biophysical methods, we have identified multiple unique G4 binding scaffolds. We subsequently used two rounds of catalogue-based SAR to increase the affinity of a disubstituted 2-aminoethyl-quinazoline that stabilizes the higher-order hTERT G-quadruplex by binding across its G4 junctional sites. We show selectivity of its binding affinity towards hTERT is virtually unaffected in the presence of near-physiological levels of duplex DNA, and that this molecule downregulates hTERT transcription in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Monsen
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Jon M. Maguire
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Lynn W. DeLeeuw
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Jonathan B. Chaires
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JBC); (JOT)
| | - John O. Trent
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JBC); (JOT)
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45
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Research Progress on G-Quadruplexes in Human Telomeres and Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) Promoter. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:2905663. [PMID: 35707279 PMCID: PMC9192192 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2905663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The upregulation telomerase activity is observed in over 85-90% of human cancers and provides an attractive target for cancer therapies. The high guanine content in the telomere DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter can form G-quadruplexes (G4s). Small molecules targeting G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter could stabilize the G4s and inhibit hTERT expression and telomere extension. Several G4 ligands have shown inhibitory effects in cancer cells and xenograft mouse models, indicating these ligands have a potential for cancer therapies. The current review article describes the concept of the telomere, telomerase, and G4s. Moreover, the regulation of telomerase and G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter is discussed as well. The summary of the small molecules targeting G4s in telomeric DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter will also be shown.
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Baj J, Forma A, Dudek I, Chilimoniuk Z, Dobosz M, Dobrzyński M, Teresiński G, Buszewicz G, Flieger J, Portincasa P. The Involvement of Human Papilloma Virus in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112607. [PMID: 35681587 PMCID: PMC9179480 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112607] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. HPV infection has a strong relationship with the onset of cervix uteri, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx, but also tonsils and tongue cancers. Some epidemiological data indicate that except for gynecologic cancers, HPV infection can be one of the risk factors associated with a greater risk of induction and progression of gastrointestinal cancers. Data, however, remain contradictory and definite conclusions cannot be drawn, so far. The following review aims to organize recent evidence and summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the association between HPV infection and gastrointestinal tumors primarily focusing on esophageal, liver, gastric, colorectal, and anal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.B.); (A.F.)
| | - Alicja Forma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: (J.B.); (A.F.)
| | - Iga Dudek
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Zuzanna Chilimoniuk
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Maciej Dobosz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Michał Dobrzyński
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Grzegorz Teresiński
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Grzegorz Buszewicz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (Z.C.); (M.D.); (M.D.); (G.T.); (G.B.)
| | - Jolanta Flieger
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences & Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy;
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Wu S, Ge Y, Lin K, Liu Q, Zhou H, Hu Q, Zhao Y, He W, Ju Z. Telomerase RNA TERC and the PI3K-AKT pathway form a positive feedback loop to regulate cell proliferation independent of telomerase activity. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:3764-3776. [PMID: 35323972 PMCID: PMC9023280 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The core catalytic unit of telomerase comprises telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and telomerase RNA (TERC). Unlike TERT, which is predominantly expressed in cancer and stem cells, TERC is ubiquitously expressed in normal somatic cells without telomerase activity. However, the functions of TERC in these telomerase-negative cells remain elusive. Here, we reported positive feedback regulation between TERC and the PI3K-AKT pathway that controlled cell proliferation independent of telomerase activity in human fibroblasts. Mechanistically, we revealed that TERC activated the transcription of target genes from the PI3K-AKT pathway, such as PDPK1, by targeting their promoters. Overexpression of PDPK1 partially rescued the deficiency of AKT activation caused by TERC depletion. Furthermore, we found that FOXO1, a transcription factor negatively regulated by the PI3K-AKT pathway, bound to TERC promoter and suppressed its expression. Intriguingly, TERC-induced activation of the PI3K-AKT pathway also played a critical role in the proliferation of activated CD4+ T cells. Collectively, our findings identify a novel function of TERC that regulates the PI3K-AKT pathway via positive feedback to elevate cell proliferation independent of telomerase activity and provide a potential strategy to promote CD4+ T cells expansion that is responsible for enhancing adaptive immune reactions to defend against pathogens and tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Aging and Regenerative Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yuanlong Ge
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Aging and Regenerative Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.,GCH Regenerative Medicine Group-Jinan University Joint Research and Development Center, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Kaixuan Lin
- Department of Genetics and Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Qianqian Liu
- First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Haoxian Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qian Hu
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Aging and Regenerative Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weifeng He
- Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhenyu Ju
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Aging and Regenerative Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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Karlsen TR, Olsen MB, Kong XY, Yang K, Quiles-Jiménez A, Kroustallaki P, Holm S, Lines GT, Aukrust P, Skarpengland T, Bjørås M, Dahl TB, Nilsen H, Gregersen I, Halvorsen B. NEIL3-deficient bone marrow displays decreased hematopoietic capacity and reduced telomere length. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 29:101211. [PMID: 35079641 PMCID: PMC8777121 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101211] [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: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deficiency of NEIL3, a DNA repair enzyme, has significant impact on mouse physiology, including vascular biology and gut health, processes related to aging. Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is suggested as a marker of biological aging, and shortened LTL is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. NEIL3 has been shown to repair DNA damage in telomere regions in vitro. Herein, we explored the role of NEIL3 in telomere maintenance in vivo by studying bone marrow cells from atherosclerosis-prone NEIL3-deficient mice. We found shortened telomeres and decreased activity of the telomerase enzyme in bone marrow cells derived from Apoe -/- Neil3 -/- as compared to Apoe -/- mice. Furthermore, Apoe -/- Neil3 -/- mice had decreased leukocyte levels as compared to Apoe -/- mice, both in bone marrow and in peripheral blood. Finally, RNA sequencing of bone marrow cells from Apoe -/- Neil3 -/- and Apoe -/- mice revealed different expression levels of genes involved in cell cycle regulation, cellular senescence and telomere protection. This study points to NEIL3 as a telomere-protecting protein in murine bone marrow in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Rune Karlsen
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria B. Olsen
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Xiang Y. Kong
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kuan Yang
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ana Quiles-Jiménez
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Penelope Kroustallaki
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, University of Oslo and Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Sverre Holm
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Pål Aukrust
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tonje Skarpengland
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Magnar Bjørås
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tuva B. Dahl
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Research and Development, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital HF, Rikshospitalet, Norway
| | - Hilde Nilsen
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, University of Oslo and Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Ida Gregersen
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente Halvorsen
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Telomerase in Cancer: Function, Regulation, and Clinical Translation. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030808. [PMID: 35159075 PMCID: PMC8834434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cells undergoing malignant transformation must circumvent replicative senescence and eventual cell death associated with progressive telomere shortening that occurs through successive cell division. To do so, malignant cells reactivate telomerase to extend their telomeres and achieve cellular immortality, which is a “Hallmark of Cancer”. Here we review the telomere-dependent and -independent functions of telomerase in cancer, as well as its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target to diagnose and treat cancer patients. Abstract During the process of malignant transformation, cells undergo a series of genetic, epigenetic, and phenotypic alterations, including the acquisition and propagation of genomic aberrations that impart survival and proliferative advantages. These changes are mediated in part by the induction of replicative immortality that is accompanied by active telomere elongation. Indeed, telomeres undergo dynamic changes to their lengths and higher-order structures throughout tumor formation and progression, processes overseen in most cancers by telomerase. Telomerase is a multimeric enzyme whose function is exquisitely regulated through diverse transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational mechanisms to facilitate telomere extension. In turn, telomerase function depends not only on its core components, but also on a suite of binding partners, transcription factors, and intra- and extracellular signaling effectors. Additionally, telomerase exhibits telomere-independent regulation of cancer cell growth by participating directly in cellular metabolism, signal transduction, and the regulation of gene expression in ways that are critical for tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize the complex mechanisms underlying telomere maintenance, with a particular focus on both the telomeric and extratelomeric functions of telomerase. We also explore the clinical utility of telomeres and telomerase in the diagnosis, prognosis, and development of targeted therapies for primary, metastatic, and recurrent cancers.
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50
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Mao J, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Zhuang Y, Xu L, Ma X, Guan D, Zhou J, Liu J, Wu X, Liang Q, Wang M, Cong Y. TERT activates endogenous retroviruses to promote an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e52984. [PMID: 35107856 PMCID: PMC8982579 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202152984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase plays a pivotal role in tumorigenesis by both telomere-dependent and telomere-independent activities, although the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. Using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) across 9,264 tumour samples, we observe that expression of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is closely associated with immunosuppressive signatures. We demonstrate that TERT can activate a subclass of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) independent of its telomerase activity to form double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), which are sensed by the RIG-1/MDA5-MAVS signalling pathway and trigger interferon signalling in cancer cells. Furthermore, we show that TERT-induced ERV/interferon signalling stimulates the expression of chemokines, including CXCL10, which induces the infiltration of suppressive T-cell populations with increased percentage of CD4+ and FOXP3+ cells. These data reveal an unanticipated role for telomerase as a transcriptional activator of ERVs and provide strong evidence that TERT-mediated ERV/interferon signalling contributes to immune suppression in tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Mao
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Qian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Yaxiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Yang Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Lu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaohe Ma
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Di Guan
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Junzhi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Jiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Qian Liang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Miao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Yu‐Sheng Cong
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhou Normal University School of Basic Medical SciencesHangzhouChina
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