The Notch Pathway in Breast Cancer Progression

The multifaceted role of SOX2 in breast and lung cancer dynamics

Breast and lung cancers are leading causes of death among patients, with their global mortality and morbidity rates increasing. Conventional treatments often prove inadequate due to resistance development. The alteration of molecular interactions may accelerate cancer progression and treatment resistance. SOX2, known for its abnormal expression in various human cancers, can either accelerate or impede cancer progression. This review focuses on examining the role of SOX2 in breast and lung cancer development. An imbalance in SOX2 expression can promote the growth and dissemination of these cancers. SOX2 can also block programmed cell death, affecting autophagy and other cell death mechanisms. It plays a significant role in cancer metastasis, mainly by regulating the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, an imbalanced SOX2 expression can cause resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy in these cancers. Genetic and epigenetic factors may affect SOX2 levels. Pharmacologically targeting SOX2 could improve the effectiveness of breast and lung cancer treatments.

Clinicopathologic features and genomic profiling of female axillary lymph node metastases from adenocarcinoma or poorly differentiated carcinoma of unknown primary

PURPOSE

Axillary lymph node metastases from adenocarcinoma or poorly differentiated carcinoma of unknown primary (CUPAx) is a rare disease in women. This retrospective study intended to examine the clinicopathological features of CUPAx and compared CUPAx genetically with axillary lymph node metastases from breast cancer (BCAx), investigating differences in their biological behavior.

METHODS

We conducted the clinical and prognostic analysis of 58 CUPAx patients in West China Hospital spanning from 2009 to 2021. Gemonic profiling of 12 CUPAx patients and 16 BCAx patients was conducted by the FoundationOne CDx (F1CDx) platform. Moreover, we also compared the gene mutation spectrum and relevant pathways between the two groups and both TCGA and COSMIC databases.

RESULTS

The majority of the 58 CUPAx patients were HR-/HER2- subtype. Most patients received mastectomy combined radiotherapy (50 Gy/25f). CUPAx patients who received mastectomy instead of breast-conserving surgery had a more favorable overall prognosis. Radiotherapy in chest wall/breast and supraclavicular/infraclavicular fossa was the independent prognostic factor (HR = 0.05, 95%CI = 0.00-0.93, P = 0.04). In 28 sequencing samples (CUPAx, n = 12, BCAx, n = 16) and 401 TCGA-BRCA patients, IRS2 only mutated in CUPAx (33.33%) but amplified in BCAx (11.11%) and TCGA-BRCA (1.5%). Pathway analysis revealed that BCAx had more NOTCH pathway mutations than CUPAx. Enrichment analysis showed that CUPAx enriched more in mammary development and PML bodies than BCAx, but less in the positive regulation of kinase activity.

CONCLUSIONS

More active treatment methods, like chemotherapy, mastectomy and postoperative radiotherapy, could improve the prognosis of CUPAx. The differential mutation genes of CUPAx and BCAx might be associated with their respective biological behaviors like invasiveness and prognosis.

Mapping the function of MicroRNAs as a critical regulator of tumor-immune cell communication in breast cancer and potential treatment strategies

Among women, breast cancer ranks as the most prevalent form of cancer, and the presence of metastases significantly reduces prognosis and diminishes overall survival rates. Gaining insights into the biological mechanisms governing the conversion of cancer cells, their subsequent spread to other areas of the body, and the immune system's monitoring of tumor growth will contribute to the advancement of more efficient and targeted therapies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells, facilitating tumor cells' evasion of the immune system and promoting cancer progression. Additionally, miRNAs also influence metastasis formation, including the establishment of metastatic sites and the transformation of tumor cells into migratory phenotypes. Specifically, dysregulated expression of these genes has been associated with abnormal expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, thereby facilitating tumor development. This study aims to provide a concise overview of the significance and function of miRNAs in breast cancer, focusing on their involvement as tumor suppressors in the antitumor immune response and as oncogenes in metastasis formation. Furthermore, miRNAs hold tremendous potential as targets for gene therapy due to their ability to modulate specific pathways that can either promote or suppress carcinogenesis. This perspective highlights the latest strategies developed for miRNA-based therapies.

New insights into the anticancer effects of Polycladia crinita aqueous extract and its selenium nanoformulation against the solid Ehrlich carcinoma model in mice via VEGF, notch 1, NF-кB, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 signaling pathway

Background: Phaeophyceae species are enticing interest among researchers working in the nanotechnology discipline, because of their diverse biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-tumor. In the present study, the anti-cancer properties of Polycladia crinita extract and green synthesized Polycladia crinita selenium nanoparticles (PCSeNPs) against breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) and solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) were investigated. Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy examinations of Polycladia crinita were determined and various analytical procedures, such as SEM, TEM, EDX, and XRD, were employed to characterize the biosynthesized PCSeNPs. In vitro, the anticancer activity of free Polycladia crinita and PCSeNPs was evaluated using the viability assay against MDA-MB-231, and also cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry was determined. Furthermore, to study the possible mechanisms behind the in vivo anti-tumor action, mice bearing SEC were randomly allocated into six equal groups (n = 6). Group 1: Tumor control group, group 2: free SeNPs, group 3: 25 mg/kg Polycladia crinita, group 4: 50 mg/kg Polycladia crinita, group 5: 25 mg/kg PCSeNPs, group 6: 50 mg/kg PCSeNPs. Results: Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy examinations of Polycladia crinita extract exposed the presence of many bioactive compounds, such as 4-Octadecenoic acid-methyl ester, Tetradecanoic acid, and n-Hexadecenoic acid. These compounds together with other compounds found, might work in concert to encourage the development of anti-tumor activities. Polycladia crinita extract and PCSeNPs were shown to inhibit cancer cell viability and early cell cycle arrest. Concentrations of 50 mg/kg of PCSeNPs showed suppression of COX-2, NF-кB, VEGF, ki-67, Notch 1, and Bcl-2 protein levels. Otherwise, showed amplification of the caspase 3, BAX, and P53 protein levels. Moreover, gene expression of caspase 3, caspase 9, Notch 1, cyclin D1, NF-кB, IL-6, and VEGF was significantly more effective with PCSeNPs than similar doses of free extract. Conclusion: The PCSeNPs mediated their promising anti-cancerous action by enhancing apoptosis and mitigating inflammation, which manifested in promoting the total survival rate and the tumor volume decrease.

The crucial role of fascin-1 in the pathogenesis, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance of breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer in women to be diagnosed, and it is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women globally. It is the disease that causes the most life years adjusted for disability lost among women, making it a serious worldwide health issue. Understanding and interpreting carcinogenesis and metastatic pathways is critical for curing malignancy. Fascin-1 was recognized as an actin-bundling protein with parallel, rigid bundles as a result of the cross-linking of F-actin microfilaments. Increasing levels of fascin-1 have been associated with bad prognostic profiles, aggressiveness of clinical courses, and poor survival outcomes in a variety of human malignancies. Cancer cells that overexpress fascin-1 have higher capabilities for proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. Fascin-1 is being considered as a potential target for therapy as well as a potential biomarker for diagnostics in a variety of cancer types. This review aims to provide an overview of the FSCN1 gene and its protein structure, elucidate its physiological and pathological roles, and throw light on its involvement in the initiation, development, and chemotherapeutic resistance of BC.

Notch-1/2 receptors and Jagged-1 ligand, but not HERP-1 transcription factor, are immunohistochemically expressed in the epithelial lining of periapical cysts

Background

To further understand the involvement of Notch pathway signaling in the pathogenesis of periapical cyst the immunohistochemical expression of Notch-1 and Notch-2 receptors, Jagged-1 ligand, and HERP-1 transcription factor in the lining epithelium of periapical cysts was investigated.

Material and Methods

Thirty human periapical cysts were immunohistochemically stained with antibodies against Notch-1, Notch-2, Jagged-1, and HERP-1. Epithelial expression of each antibody was correlated with the presence of inflammation in the connective tissue of the cystic wall.

Results

Notch-1 was identified in the basal and suprabasal epithelial cells of 30/30, Notch-2 in 19/24, and Jagged-1 in 27/30 cysts. HERP-1 was detected in scattered subepithelial inflammatory cells, but not in the lining epithelium of cysts. There was no significant correlation between the immunohistochemical expression of each antibody and the presence of inflammation in the connective tissue of the cystic wall.

Conclusions

This immunohistochemical study showed expression of Notch-1/2 and Jagged-1 in periapical cysts that combined with the expression of HES1/5 found in a previous report, are indicative of the activation of Notch an endocrine-paracrine mechanism. Further research on the activity of Notch and other pathways in periapical cysts may contribute both to elucidate their pathogenesis and select molecular targets for future novel treatments. Key words:Odontogenic cyst, radicular cyst, etiology, epithelial cells, Notch, Jagged, HERP.

Chitosan-functionalized bioplatforms and hydrogels in breast cancer: immunotherapy, phototherapy and clinical perspectives

Breast cancer is the most common and malignant tumor among women. Chitosan (CS)-based nanoparticles have been introduced into breast cancer therapy as a way to increase the targeted delivery of drugs and genes to the tumor site. CS nanostructures suppress tumorigenesis by enhancing both the targeted delivery of cargo (drug and gene) and its accumulation in tumor cells. The tumor cells internalize CS-based nanoparticles through endocytosis. Moreover, chitosan nanocarriers can also induce phototherapy-mediated tumor ablation. Smart and multifunctional types of CS nanoparticles, including pH-, light- and redox-responsive nanoparticles, can be used to improve the potential for breast cancer removal. In addition, the acceleration of immunotherapy by CS nanoparticles has also been achieved, and there is potential to develop CS-nanoparticle hydrogels that can be used to suppress tumorigenesis.

Notch3 restricts metastasis of breast cancers through regulation of the JAK/STAT5A signaling pathway

PURPOSE

To explore the potential role of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5A (STAT5A) in the metastasis of breast cancer, and its mechanism of regulation underlying.

METHODS AND RESULTS

TCGA datasets were used to evaluate the expression of STAT5A in normal and different cancerous tissues through TIMER2.0, indicating that STAT5A level was decreased in breast cancer tissues compared with normal ones. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis predicted that STAT5A was associated with the activation of immune cells and cell cycle process. We further demonstrated that the infiltration of immune cells was positively associated with STAT5A level. Influorescence staining revealed the expression and distribution of F-actin was regulated by STAT5A, while colony formation assay, wound healing and transwell assays predicted the inhibitory role of STAT5A in the colony formation, migratory and invasive abilities in breast cancer cells. In addition, overexpression of the Notch3 intracellular domain (N3ICD), the active form of Notch3, resulted in the increased expression of STAT5A. Conversely, silencing of Notch3 expression by siNotch3 decreased STAT5A expression, supporting that STAT5A expression is positively associated with Notch3 in human breast cancer cell lines and breast cancer tissues. Mechanistically, chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that Notch3 was directly bound to the STAT5A promoter and induced the expression of STAT5A. Moreover, overexpressing STAT5A partially reversed the enhanced mobility of breast cancer cells following Notch3 silencing. Low expression of Notch3 and STAT5A predicted poorer prognosis of patients with breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that Notch3 inhibits metastasis in breast cancer through inducing transcriptionally STAT5A, which was associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells, providing a novel strategy to treat breast cancer.

miRNAs in the Box: Potential Diagnostic Role for Extracellular Vesicle-Packaged miRNA-27a and miRNA-128 in Breast Cancer

Circulating extracellular vesicle (EV)-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) are now considered the next generation of cancer "theranostic" tools, with strong clinical relevance. Although their potential in breast cancer diagnosis has been widely reported, further studies are still required to address this challenging issue. The present study examined the expression profiles of EV-packaged miRNAs to identify novel miRNA signatures in breast cancer and verified their diagnostic accuracy. Circulating EVs were isolated from healthy controls and breast cancer patients and characterized following the MISEV 2018 guidelines. RNA-sequencing and real-time PCR showed that miRNA-27a and miRNA-128 were significantly down-regulated in patient-derived EVs compared to controls in screening and validation cohorts. Bioinformatics analyses of miRNA-target genes indicated several enriched biological processes/pathways related to breast cancer. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves highlighted the ability of these EV-miRNAs to distinguish breast cancer patients from non-cancer controls. According to other reports, the levels of EV-miRNA-27a and EV-miRNA-128 are not associated with their circulating ones. Finally, evidence from the studies included in our systematic review underscores how the expression of these miRNAs in biofluids is still underinvestigated. Our findings unraveled the role of serum EV-derived miRNA-27a and miRNA-128 in breast cancer, encouraging further investigation of these two miRNAs within EVs towards improved breast cancer detection.

Epigenetic Profiles of Triple-Negative Breast Cancers of African American and White Females

Importance

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype and appears to have disproportionately higher incidence and worse outcomes among younger African American females.

Objective

To investigate whether epigenetic differences exist in TNBCs of younger African American females that may explain clinical disparities seen in this patient group.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used clinical, demographic, DNA methylation (HumanMethylation450; Illumina), and gene expression (RNA sequencing) data for US patient populations from publicly available data repositories (The Cancer Genome Atlas [TCGA], 2006-2012, and Gene Expression Omnibus [GEO], 2004-2013) accessed on April 13, 2021. White and African American females with TNBC identified in TCGA (69 patients) and a validation cohort of 210 African American patients from GEO (GSE142102) were included. Patients without available race or age data were excluded. Data were analyzed from September 2022 through April 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

DNA methylation and gene expression profiles of TNBC tumors by race (self-reported) and age were assessed. Age was considered a dichotomous variable using age 50 years as the cutoff (younger [<50 years] vs older [≥50 years]).

Results

A total of 69 female patients (34 African American [49.3%] and 35 White [50.7%]; mean [SD; range] age, 55.7 [11.6; 29-82] years) with TNBC were included in the DNA methylation analysis; these patients and 210 patients in the validation cohort were included in the gene expression analysis (279 patients). There were 1115 differentially methylated sites among younger African American females. The DNA methylation landscape on TNBC tumors in this population had increased odds of enrichment of hormone (odds ratio [OR], 1.82; 95% CI, 1.21 to 2.67; P = .003), muscle (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.44 to 2.36; P < .001), and proliferation (OR, 3.14; 95% CI, 2.71 to 3.64; P < .001) pathways vs other groups (older African American females and all White females). Alterations in regulators of these molecular features in TNBCs of younger African American females were identified involving hormone modulation (downregulation of androgen receptor: fold change [FC] = -2.93; 95% CI, -4.76 to -2.11; P < .001) and upregulation of estrogen-related receptor α (FC = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.34 to 1.38; P = .002), muscle metabolism (upregulation of FOXC1: FC = 1.33; 95% CI, 0.62 to 2.03; P < .001), and proliferation mediators (upregulation of NOTCH1: FC = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.23 to 1.19; P = .004 and MYC (FC = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.18 to 1.45; P = .01).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that TNBC of younger African American females may represent a distinct epigenetic entity and offer novel insight into molecular alterations associated with TNBCs of this population. Understanding these epigenetic differences may lead to the development of more effective therapies for younger African American females, who have the highest incidence and worst outcomes from TNBC of any patient group.

[JAG1 affects monocytes-macrophages to reshape the pre-metastatic niche of triple-negative breast cancer through LncRNA MALAT1 in exosomes]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of JAG1 on the activities of monocytes-macrophages in pre-metastatic niche (PMN) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and explore the possible regulatory mechanism.

METHODS

JAG1 expression in human TNBC MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-231B cells was detected using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).Ten female nude mice were inoculated with MDA-MB-231 cells (n=5) or MDA-MB-231B cells (n=5) in the mammary fat pad, and 6 weeks later, the tumor tissues were collected for immunohistochemistry.Human monocytes THP-1 cells were treated with rhJAG1 or conditioned media (CM) of TNBC MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-231B cells to assess the direct effect of JAG1 on monocytes and its effect on monocytes in the PMN using monocyte-endothelial adhesion, Transwell assay, qRT-PCR and Western blotting.Transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analyses were used to identify the effect of JAG1 on exosome release from the TNBC cells.MiRNAs interacting with lncRNA MALAT1 were identified by bioinformatics and validated using qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

Compared with MDA-MB-231 cells, the invasive strain MDA-MB-231B cells showed significantly higher JAG1 expression and greater liver metastasis potential (P<0.01).Both direct treatment with rhJAG1 and treatment with the conditioned media promoted adhesion and migration and affected differentiation of the monocytes (P<0.05).Transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis showed that JAG1 strongly enhanced exosome secretion from MDAMB-231 cells (P<0.01) and increased MALAT1 content in the exosomes (P<0.0001).Five candidate miRNAs related to MALAT1 and JAG1 were identified by bioinformatics analysis, and miR-26a-5p was identified as a potential target of MALAT1 in monocytes-macrophages in TMN (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

JAG1 can promote exocrine secretion of TNBC and increase the expression of MALAT1 to cause targeted downregulation of miR-26a-5p in monocytes-macrophages in the PMN, which in turn increases JAG1 expression in monocytes-macrophages to affect their adhesion, migration and osteoclast differentiation in the PMN.

Notch, SUMOylation, and ESR-Mediated Signalling Are the Main Molecular Pathways Showing Significantly Different Epimutation Scores between Expressing or Not Oestrogen Receptor Breast Cancer in Three Public EWAS Datasets

Oestrogen receptor expression in breast cancer (BC) cells is a marker of high cellular differentiation and allows the identification of two BC groups (ER-positive and ER-negative) that, although not completely homogeneous, differ in biological characteristics, clinical behaviour, and therapeutic options. The study, based on three publicly available EWAS (Epigenetic Wide Association Study) datasets, focuses on the comparison between these two groups of breast cancer using an epimutation score. The score is calculated not only based on the presence of the epimutation, but also on the deviation amplitude of the methylation outlier value. For each dataset, we performed a functional analysis based first on the functional gene region of each annotated gene (we aggregated the data per gene region TSS1500, TSS200, first-exon, and body-gene identified by the information from the Illumina Data Sheet), and then, we performed a pathway enrichment analysis through the REACTOME database based on the genes with the highest epimutation score. Thus, we blended our results and found common pathways for all three datasets. We found that a higher and significant epimutation score due to hypermethylation in ER-positive BC is present in the promoter region of the genes belonging to the SUMOylation pathway, the Notch pathway, the IFN-γ signalling pathway, and the deubiquitination protease pathway, while a higher and significant level of epimutation due to hypomethylation in ER-positive BC is present in the promoter region of the genes belonging to the ESR-mediated pathway. The presence of this state of promoter hypomethylation in the ESR-mediated signalling genes is consistent and coherent with an active signalling pathway mediated by oestrogen function in the group of ER-positive BC. The SUMOylation and Notch pathways are associated with BC pathogenesis and have been found to play distinct roles in the two BC subgroups. We speculated that the altered methylation profile may play a role in regulating signalling pathways with specific functions in the two subgroups of ER BC.

Trastuzumab-induced human cardiomyocyte damage through the Notch2/JAK2/STAT3 pathway

OBJECTIVE

Trastuzumab is the preferred drug for the treatment of breast cancer. However, research on the cellular mechanisms of trastuzumab's potential cardiotoxicity is insufficient. The purpose of this study was to explore the toxic effects and potential mechanism of action of trastuzumab on cardiomyocytes.

METHOD

Human Cardiomyocyte (HCM) viability was assessed using the MTT method. HCM apoptosis was detected using the Hoechst33342/PI Fluorescent staining. The LDH and CK activities of the cell were measured using commercially available LDH and CK assay kits. The expression levels of Notch2, JAK2, STAT3, cleaved caspase 3, bax, and bcl 2 in HCMs were detected using western blotting.

RESULTS

The results showed that 250 mg/L trastuzumab induced cardiomyocyte injury and apoptosis, inhibited viability, activated the Notch2 receptor, and inhibited JAK2/STAT3 expression in HCM. Inhibition of Notch2 expression in HCM by targeted siNotch2 transfection reversed the trastuzumab-induced injury and apoptosis, and the expression of JAK2/STAT3 returned to normal levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Trastuzumab induces Notch2 expression by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 pathway of HCMs, promotes cell apoptosis, and causes cardiomyocyteinjury. Notch2 may be a potential target of trastuzumab-inducedmyocardial injury. This experiment reveals the mechanism of trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity, providing a theoretical basis for the application of trastuzumab.

Extensive review on breast cancer its etiology, progression, prognostic markers, and treatment

As the most frequent and vulnerable malignancy among women, breast cancer universally manifests a formidable healthcare challenge. From a biological and molecular perspective, it is a heterogenous disease and is stratified based on the etiological factors driving breast carcinogenesis. Notably, genetic predispositions and epigenetic impacts often constitute the heterogeneity of this disease. Typically, breast cancer is classified intrinsically into histological subtypes in clinical landscapes. These stratifications empower physicians to tailor precise treatments among the spectrum of breast cancer therapeutics. In this pursuit, numerous prognostic algorithms are extensively characterized, drastically changing how breast cancer is portrayed. Therefore, it is a basic requisite to comprehend the multidisciplinary rationales of breast cancer to assist the evolution of novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims at highlighting the molecular and genetic grounds of cancer additionally with therapeutic and phytotherapeutic context. Substantially, it also renders researchers with an insight into the breast cancer cell lines as a model paradigm for breast cancer research interventions.

Signaling pathways governing the maintenance of breast cancer stem cells and their therapeutic implications

Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) represent a distinct subpopulation of cells with the ability to self-renewal and differentiate into phenotypically diverse tumor cells. The involvement of CSC in treatment resistance and cancer recurrence has been well established. Numerous studies have provided compelling evidence that the self-renewal ability of cancer stem cells is tightly regulated by specific signaling pathways, which exert critical roles to maintain an undifferentiated phenotype and prevent the differentiation of CSCs. Signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, Notch, Hedgehog, TGF-β, and Hippo have been implicated in the promotion of self-renewal of many normal and cancer stem cells. Given the pivotal role of BCSCs in driving breast cancer aggressiveness, targeting self-renewal signaling pathways holds promise as a viable therapeutic strategy for combating this disease. In this review, we will discuss the main signaling pathways involved in the maintenance of the self-renewal ability of BCSC, while also highlighting current strategies employed to disrupt the signaling molecules associated with stemness.

Nanomedicine Technologies for Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide, yet conventional treatments have several shortcomings, including low specificity, systemic toxicity, and drug resistance. Nanomedicine technologies provide a promising alternative while also overcoming the limitations posed by conventional therapies. This mini-Review highlights important signaling pathways related to occurrence and development of breast cancer and current breast cancer therapies, followed by an analysis of various nanomedicine technologies developed for diagnosis and treatment of breast cancers.

Emerging Intrinsic Therapeutic Targets for Metastatic Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer worldwide, and it is also the main cause of cancer-related death in women. Survival rates for female breast cancer have significantly improved due to early diagnosis and better treatment. Nevertheless, for patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer, the survival rate is still low, reflecting a need for the development of new therapies. Mechanistic insights into metastatic breast cancer have provided excellent opportunities for developing novel therapeutic strategies. Although high-throughput approaches have identified several therapeutic targets in metastatic disease, some subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer do not yet have an apparent tumor-specific receptor or pathway to target. Therefore, exploring new druggable targets in metastatic disease is a high clinical priority. In this review, we summarize the emerging intrinsic therapeutic targets for metastatic breast cancer, including cyclin D-dependent kinases CDK4 and CDK6, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, the insulin/IGF1R pathway, the EGFR/HER family, the JAK/STAT pathway, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP), TROP-2, Src kinases, histone modification enzymes, activated growth factor receptors, androgen receptors, breast cancer stem cells, matrix metalloproteinases, and immune checkpoint proteins. We also review the latest development in breast cancer immunotherapy. Drugs that target these molecules/pathways are either already FDA-approved or currently being tested in clinical trials.

METTL3-mediated Hsa_circ_0000390 downregulation enhances the proliferation, migration, and invasion of colorectal cancer cells by increasing Notch1 expression

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), as noncoding RNAs, have gained widespread attention in cancers. Circ_0000390 has been verified to be downregulated in gastric cancer, while its function and regulatory mechanism in cancer is largely unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate the expression, functions, and potential mechanism of circ_0000390 in colorectal cancer (CRC). Circ_0000390 expression in CRC tissues was first identified with RT-qPCR. Besides, the function of circ_0000390 was assessed through gain-of-function and rescued experiments in CRC cells and mouse xenograft models. Our results showed that circ_0000390 was lowly expressed in CRC tissues, and circ_0000390 could downregulate Notch1 and be downregulated by METTL3. Functionally, results showed circ_0000390 overexpression suppressed the proliferation, cell migration, and invasion of CRC cells, which also could be reversed by Notch1 overexpression. Additionally, METTL3 overexpression could accelerate the proliferation, cell migration, and invasion of CRC cells, which also was weakened by circ_0000390 overexpression in CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. This study suggested that circ_0000390 might be anti-tumor factor in CRC and METTL3/Notch1 might be a therapeutic targets for CRC.

Preclinical and Clinical Trials of New Treatment Strategies Targeting Cancer Stem Cells in Subtypes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) can be classified into various histological subtypes, each associated with different prognoses and treatment options, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and endocrine therapy. Despite advances in this area, many patients still face treatment failure, the risk of metastasis, and disease recurrence, which can ultimately lead to death. Mammary tumors, like other solid tumors, contain a population of small cells known as cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that have high tumorigenic potential and are involved in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, tumor recurrence, and resistance to therapy. Therefore, designing therapies specifically targeting at CSCs could help to control the growth of this cell population, leading to increased survival rates for BC patients. In this review, we discuss the characteristics of CSCs, their surface biomarkers, and the active signaling pathways associated with the acquisition of stemness in BC. We also cover preclinical and clinical studies that focus on evaluating new therapy systems targeted at CSCs in BC through various combinations of treatments, targeted delivery systems, and potential new drugs that inhibit the properties that allow these cells to survive and proliferate.

Advances in the role of STAT3 in macrophage polarization

The physiological processes of cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis are closely related to STAT3, and it has been demonstrated that aberrant STAT3 expression has an impact on the onset and progression of a number of inflammatory immunological disorders, fibrotic diseases, and malignancies. In order to produce the necessary biological effects, macrophages (M0) can be polarized into pro-inflammatory (M1) and anti-inflammatory (M2) types in response to various microenvironmental stimuli. STAT3 signaling is involved in macrophage polarization, and the research of the effect of STAT3 on macrophage polarization has gained attention in recent years. In order to provide references for the treatment and investigation of disorders related to macrophage polarization, this review compiles the pertinent signaling pathways associated with STAT3 and macrophage polarization from many fundamental studies.

JAG1 is associated with the prognosis and metastasis in breast cancer

Jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 (JAG1) regulates the progression of many cancers by the Notch signaling pathway, but its role in breast cancer (BC) remains unclear. In this research, JAG1 protein expression in BC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. The association between JAG1 and clinical significance was analyzed. The effect of JAG1 on malignant behaviors of BC cells was demonstrated by in vitro experiments. JAG1 expression in BC tissues was higher than that in para-carcinoma tissues. High JAG1 expression was significantly linked to advanced lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and the TNM stage. JAG1 was an independent prognostic factor for BC patients. JAG1 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, motility, migration, and invasion of BC cells, and weakened adhesion and penetration abilities to the blood-brain barrier, whereas JAG1 overexpression had the opposite effects. JAG1 has the potential to be a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for BC patients.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Anti-Tumor Mechanism of Eucalyptol Treatment on Neuroblastoma Cell Line SH-SY5Y

Eucalyptol (1.8-cineole), an active component in traditional Chinese medicine Artemisia argyi for moxibustion. Previous studies have shown that eucalyptol has anti-tumor effects on leukemia and colon cancer. Nonetheless, the effect and mechanism of eucalyptol on neuroblastoma remains unclear. In the present study, we intended to reveal the effect and mechanism of eucalyptol treatment on the neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y through transcriptome analysis. In the group treated with eucalyptol, 566 brain genes were up-regulated, while 757 genes were down-regulated. GO function analysis showed that positive regulation of cell cycle was down-regulated in biological processes. Meanwhile, cancer-related pathways were identified in KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analysis, including pathways in cancer, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, cAMP signaling pathway, TGF-beta signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, and additional pathways. Furthermore, we found a key gene, such as MYC, by constructing a network of cancer related pathways with differentially expressed genes and transcription factor analysis. In conclusion, our research indicates that MYC might play a central role in the anit-tumor mechanisms of eucalyptol.

NOTCH expression variability and relapse of breast cancer in high-risk groups

BACKGROUND

In regards to breast cancer (BC), survival or disease-free periods are still compromised mainly in Triple Negative (TN) and HER2 tumors. The participation of estrogen receptor (ER) has been reported as crucial in the signaling pathways, including the NOTCH pathway. The study was aimed to evaluate the expression of NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 in BC and its relationship with the presence of ER, as well as with relapses.

METHODS

NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 expression was evaluated in BC using Oncomine database, Breast Cancer Gene Expression Miner database and Kaplan Meier Plotter. Subsequently, detection of NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 in 100 paraffin-embedded BC samples from Mexican patients was achieved by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and RT-qPCR, a group of benign breast tumors were included as controls. Relapses were evaluated by BC subtypes and their relationship with NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 expression, as well as with ER expression.

RESULTS

The analyses from public databases of TN and HER2 groups, which are estrogen receptor-negative (ERN), revealed NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 expression variability. The overexpression was associated with lower relapse-free survival (P = 0.00019). These data were concordant with results from tumor samples of patients included in this study, which showed overexpression of NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 in ERN tumors, as well as lower relapse-free survival (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 were found to be overexpressed mainly in ERN tumors. HER2 and TN groups, are related to higher relapse rates. Therefore, anti-NOTCH therapy could be justified and implemented in conventional treatments of high-risk BC groups.

Herbal Ingredients in the Prevention of Breast Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Potential Molecular Targets and Role of Natural Products

Among various cancers, breast cancer is the most prevalent type in women throughout the world. Breast cancer treatment is challenging due to complex nature of the etiology of disease. Cell division cycle alterations are often encountered in a variety of cancer types including breast cancer. Common treatments include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy; however, adverse effects and multidrug resistance lead to complications and noncompliance. Accordingly, there is an increasing demand for natural products from medicinal plants and foods. This review summarizes molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in breast cancer and identifies mechanisms by which natural compounds may exert their efficacy in the treatment of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Stem Cells: Signaling Pathways, Cellular Interactions, and Therapeutic Implications

Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) constitute a small population of cells within breast cancer and are characterized by their ability to self-renew, differentiate, and recapitulate the heterogeneity of the tumor. Clinically, BCSCs have been correlated with cancer progression, metastasis, relapse, and drug resistance. The tumorigenic roles of BCSCs have been extensively reviewed and will not be the major focus of the current review. Here, we aim to highlight how the crucial intrinsic signaling pathways regulate the fate of BCSCs, including the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, and NF-κB signaling pathways, as well as how different cell populations crosstalk with BCSCs within the TME, including adipocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells. Based on the molecular and cellular activities of BCSCs, we will also summarize the targeting strategies for BCSCs and related clinical trials. This review will highlight that BCSC development in breast cancer is impacted by both BCSC endogenous signaling and external factors in the TME, which provides an insight into how to establish a comprehensively therapeutic strategy to target BCSCs for breast cancer treatments.

Optogenetic control of NOTCH1 signaling

The Notch signaling pathway is a crucial regulator of cell differentiation as well as tissue organization, whose deregulation is linked to the pathogenesis of different diseases. NOTCH1 plays a key role in breast cancer progression by increasing proliferation, maintenance of cancer stem cells, and impairment of cell death. NOTCH1 is a mechanosensitive receptor, where mechanical force is required to activate the proteolytic cleavage and release of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD). We circumvent this limitation by regulating Notch activity by light. To achieve this, we have engineered an optogenetic NOTCH1 receptor (optoNotch) to control the activation of NOTCH1 intracellular domain (N1ICD) and its downstream transcriptional activities. Using optoNotch we confirm that NOTCH1 activation increases cell proliferation in MCF7 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells in 2D and spheroid 3D cultures, although causing distinct cell-type specific migratory phenotypes. Additionally, optoNotch activation induced chemoresistance on the same cell lines. OptoNotch allows the fine-tuning, ligand-independent, regulation of N1ICD activity and thus a better understanding of the spatiotemporal complexity of Notch signaling. Video Abstract.

Dual-imaging magnetic nanocatalysis based on Fenton-like reaction for tumor therapy

Sequential nano-catalytic therapy has emerged as a novel therapeutic modality for cancer treatment as it utilizes the unique tumor microenvironment for selective tumor treatment. This study reports a magnetic nanoparticle to achieve Fenton-like reaction and dual-imaging guidance/monitoring. Natural glucose oxidase (GOx) and superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles have been integrated into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) to fabricate a sequential nanocatalyst (designated as GOx@PLGA-Fe₃O₄). This nanocatalyst can functionally deplete glucose in tumor tissues, producing a considerable amount of highly cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals via the sequential Fenton-like reaction, and meanwhile maximizing the potential imaging capability as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging and photoacoustic imaging. By ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA-seq) technology, GOx@PLGA-Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are demonstrated to induce tumor cell death by inhibiting multiple gene regulation pathways involving tumor growth and recurrence. Therefore, this finding provides a novel strategy to achieve promising therapeutic efficacy by the rational design of multifunctional nanoparticles with various features, including magnetic targeting, sequential nano-catalytic therapy, and dual-imaging guidance/monitoring.

Identification of phenotype-specific networks from paired gene expression-cell shape imaging data

The morphology of breast cancer cells is often used as an indicator of tumor severity and prognosis. Additionally, morphology can be used to identify more fine-grained, molecular developments within a cancer cell, such as transcriptomic changes and signaling pathway activity. Delineating the interface between morphology and signaling is important to understand the mechanical cues that a cell processes in order to undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and consequently metastasize. However, the exact regulatory systems that define these changes remain poorly characterized. In this study, we used a network-systems approach to integrate imaging data and RNA-seq expression data. Our workflow allowed the discovery of unbiased and context-specific gene expression signatures and cell signaling subnetworks relevant to the regulation of cell shape, rather than focusing on the identification of previously known, but not always representative, pathways. By constructing a cell-shape signaling network from shape-correlated gene expression modules and their upstream regulators, we found central roles for developmental pathways such as WNT and Notch, as well as evidence for the fine control of NF-kB signaling by numerous kinase and transcriptional regulators. Further analysis of our network implicates a gene expression module enriched in the RAP1 signaling pathway as a mediator between the sensing of mechanical stimuli and regulation of NF-kB activity, with specific relevance to cell shape in breast cancer.

Notch signaling in the pathogenesis, progression and identification of potential targets for cholangiocarcinoma (Review)

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive type of bile duct cancer that is characterized by a high mortality rate due to its late diagnosis and ineffective treatment. The aim of the present systematic review was to analyze the association between Notch signaling and CCA in terms of its pathogenesis, progression and potential treatment targets. Relevant information was gathered from the PubMed, ScienceDirect and Scopus databases using the search terms 'cholangiocarcinoma' AND 'Notch signaling'. Of the 90 articles identified, 28 fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. It was concluded that overexpression/upregulation of Notch ligands, such as Jagged1 and Notch receptors (Notch1, Notch2 and Notch3), as well as upregulation of the upstream Notch signaling pathway, promoted CCA development and progression. In addition, downregulation of Notch1 signaling through several possible interventions appears to be a promising strategy for inhibition of CCA development and progression. Therefore, the Notch signaling pathway may be considered as a potential target for CCA control.

Dissecting Tumor Growth: The Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Drug Resistance and Recurrence

Simple Summary

Cancer is one of the most debated problems all over the world. Cancer stem cells are considered responsible of tumor initiation, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. This subpopulation of cells has been found into the tumor bulk and showed the capacity to self-renew, differentiate, up to generate a new tumor. In the last decades, several studies have been set on the molecular mechanisms behind their specific characteristics as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, Hedgehog signaling, transcription factors, etc. The most powerful part of CSCs is represented by the niches as “promoter” of their self-renewal and “protector” from the common oncological treatment as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In our review article we highlighted the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis for the setting of further targets to control the metastatic process.

Abstract

Emerging evidence suggests that a small subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is responsible for initiation, progression, and metastasis cascade in tumors. CSCs share characteristics with normal stem cells, i.e., self-renewal and differentiation potential, suggesting that they can drive cancer progression. Consequently, targeting CSCs to prevent tumor growth or regrowth might offer a chance to lead the fight against cancer. CSCs create their niche, a specific area within tissue with a unique microenvironment that sustains their vital functions. Interactions between CSCs and their niches play a critical role in regulating CSCs’ self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Differences observed in the frequency of CSCs, due to the phenotypic plasticity of many cancer cells, remain a challenge in cancer therapeutics, since CSCs can modulate their transcriptional activities into a more stem-like state to protect themselves from destruction. This plasticity represents an essential step for future therapeutic approaches. Regarding self-renewal, CSCs are modulated by the same molecular pathways found in normal stem cells, such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, and Hedgehog signaling. Another key characteristic of CSCs is their resistance to standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, due to their capacity to rest in a quiescent state. This review will analyze the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis, with particular attention to the roles of CSCs in tumor progression in benign and malignant diseases; and will examine future perspectives on the identification of new markers to better control tumorigenesis, as well as dissecting the metastasis process.

Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Signaling Pathways Responsible for Breast Cancer Metastasis

Breast carcinoma is highly metastatic and invasive. Tumor metastasis is a convoluted and multistep process involving tumor cell disseminating from their primary site and migrating to the secondary organ. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one of the crucial steps that initiate cell progression, invasion, and metastasis. During EMT, epithelial cells alter their molecular features and acquire a mesenchymal phenotype. The regulation of EMT is centered by several signaling pathways, including primary mediators TGF-β, Notch, Wnt, TNF-α, Hedgehog, and RTKs. It is also affected by hypoxia and microRNAs (miRNAs). All these pathways are the convergence on the transcriptional factors such as Snail, Slug, Twist, and ZEB1/2. In addition, a line of evidence suggested that EMT and cancer stem like cells (CSCs) are associated. EMT associated cancer stem cells display mesenchymal phenotypes and resist to chemotherapy or targeted therapy. In this review, we highlighted recent discoveries in these signaling pathways and their regulation in breast cancer metastasis and invasion. While the clinical relevance of EMT and breast cancers remains controversial, we speculated a convergent signaling network pivotal to elucidating the transition of epithelial to mesenchymal phenotypes and onset of metastasis of breast cancer cells.

Enabled homolog (ENAH) regulated by RNA binding protein splicing factor 3b subunit 4 (SF3B4) exacerbates the proliferation, invasion and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via Notch signaling pathway

Enabled homolog (ENAH) is an actin-binding protein that implicated in multiple malignant tumors. High ENAH expression has been verified to be associated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to reveal the role of ENAH in HCC and the potential mechanism. ENAH expression in HCC tissues and the prognostic correlation were analyzed by GEPIA2 database. RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to test ENAH expression in HCC cells. Following ENAH silencing, cell proliferation was estimated by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Transwell and wound healing assays were to assess cell invasion and migration. ENCORI database was to analyze the correlation between ENAH and splicing factor 3b subunit 4 (SF3B4) in HCC tissues, which was then verified by RIP and actinomycin D assay. Then, the expression of Notch signaling-related proteins was detected by Western blotting after ENAH knockdown. Afterward, Notch1 was overexpressed to validate whether ENAH impacted the biological events of HCC cells through mediating Notch signaling. Results revealed that ENAH expression was elevated in HCC tissues and cells and associated with poor prognosis. ENAH deficiency mitigated proliferation, invasion and migration of HCC cells. Mechanistically, ENAH was positively correlated with SF3B4 in HCC tissues. SF3B4 could bind to ENAH mRNA and stabilized ENAH. Besides, ENAH activated Notch signaling. Notch1 up-regulation reversed the influence of ENAH knockdown on biological events of HCC cells. Collectively, ENAH regulated by SF3B4 promoted the development of HCC through activating Notch signaling, which identified ENAH as a potent molecular target for HCC therapy and prognosis.

Preparation of Notch-4 Receptor Containing Quartz Crystal Microbalance Biosensor for MDA MB 231 Cancer Cell Detection

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) is a highly sensitive system that is used as a biosensor for biomolecules and cells. Detection and characterization of cancer cells in circulation or biopsy samples is of crucial importance for cancer diagnosis. Here, we introduce approaches for breast cancer cell detection via their surface molecules. The sensor system is based on preliminary coating of QCM chip with polymeric nanoparticles to increase the surface area and allow for the attachment of proteins to the chip surface. This is followed by the attachment of a specific protein in order to functionalize the chip. Breast cancer cells and fibroblast cells as control are cultured and applied to this chip. The functionalized QCM system can detect breast cancer cells with high affinity and selectivity. Here, we present the preparation methods of QCM-based sensors for selective detection of MDA MB 231 cancer cells. Selectivity of QCM-based sensor is carried out in the presence of L929 mouse fibroblast cells.

A review on epidermal growth factor receptor's role in breast and non-small cell lung cancer

Epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a cell surface transmembrane receptor that mediates the tyrosine signaling pathway to carry the extracellular messages inside the cell and thereby alter the function of nucleus. This leads to the generation of various protein products to up or downregulate the cellular function. It is encoded by cell erythroblastosis virus oncogene B1, so called C-erb B1/ERBB2/HER-2 gene that acts as a proto-oncogene. It belongs to the HER-2 receptor-family in breast cancer and responds best with anti-Herceptin therapy (anti-tyrosine kinase monoclonal antibody). HER-2 positive breast cancer patient exhibits worse prognosis without Herceptin therapy. Similar incidence and prognosis are reported in other epithelial neoplasms like EGFR + lung non-small cell carcinoma and glioblastoma (grade IV brain glial tumor). Present study highlights the role and connectivity of EGF with various cancers via signaling pathways, cell surface receptors mechanism, macromolecules, mitochondrial genes and neoplasm. Present study describes the EGFR associated gene expression profiling (in breast cancer and NSCLC), relation between mitrochondrial genes and carcinoma, and several in vitro and in vivo models to screen the synergistic effect of various combination treatments. According to this study, although clinical studies including targeted treatments, immunotherapies, radiotherapy, TKi-EGFR combined targeted therapy have been carried out to investigate the synergism of combination therapy; however still there is a gap to apply the scenarios of experimental and clinical studies for further developments. This review will give an idea about the transition from experimental to most advanced clinical studies with different combination drug strategies to treat cancer.

miR-138-5p inhibits proliferation and invasion in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma by targeting SINA3 and regulation of the Notch signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The function of miR-138-5p as an oncogenic factor has been reported in certain cancers. This study was performed to analyze the potential involvement of miR-138-5p in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC).

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used to explain the expression of miR-138-5p in cancer and paired non-cancer tissues of KIRC patients. Subsequently, miR-138-5p expression in KIRC tissues and cell lines, as well as that in normal tissues and normal renal tubular epithelial cell line, was detected. Artificial overexpressing of miR-138-5p was applied to observe its effect on the biological behaviors of KIRC cells. The target mRNA of miR-138-5p, SIN3A, was predicted and validated. Altered expression of miR-138-5p and SIN3A was introduced to confirm their functions in KIRC proliferation and invasion.

RESULTS

We showed that miR-138-5p was down-regulated in tumor tissues of KIRC patients comparing to adjacent healthy tissues and linked to dismal prognosis in patients. miR-138-5p could hinder KIRC proliferation and invasion, while artificial overexpression of SIN3A led to reversed trends. SIN3A was a target mRNA of miR-138-5p. miR-138-5p and SIN3A together affect the activation of the Notch signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study evidenced that up-regulated miR-138-5p inhibits proliferation and invasion of KIRC cells involving the transcription of SIN3A and the following regulation of the Notch signaling pathway.

SOX10 Knockdown Inhibits Melanoma Cell Proliferation via Notch Signaling Pathway

Purpose

Melanoma is a serious and malignant disease worldwide. Seeking diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets is urgent for melanoma treatment. SOX10, a member of the SoxE family of genes, is a transcription factor which can regulate the transcription of a wide variety of genes in multiple cellular processes.

Methods

The mRNA level and protein expression of SOX10 is confirmed by bioinformatic analysis and IHC staining. MTT, clone formation and EdU analysis showed that SOX10 knockdown (KD) could significantly inhibit melanoma cell proliferation. FACS analysis showed that SOX10 KD could markedly enhance the level of cell apoptosis. The downstream target signaling pathway is predicted by RNA-seq based on the public GEO database. The activation of Notch signaling mediated by SOX10 is tested by qPCR and Western blot.

Results

Ectopic upregulation of SOX10 was found in melanoma patient tissues compared to normal nevus tissues in mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, both mRNA and protein level of SOX10 were negatively correlated with melanoma patient's prognosis. SOX10 knockdown could obviously suppress the proliferation ability of melanoma cells by inactivating Notch signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed that SOX10 is an oncogene and activate Notch signaling pathway, which suggests the potential treatment for melanoma patients by target SOX10/Notch axis.

Proteomics and its applications in breast cancer

Breast cancer is an individually unique, multi-faceted and chameleonic disease, an eternal challenge for the new era of high-integrated precision diagnostic and personalized oncomedicine. Besides traditional single-omics fields (such as genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics) and multi-omics contributions (proteogenomics, proteotranscriptomics or reproductomics), several new "-omics" approaches and exciting proteomics subfields are contributing to basic and advanced understanding of these "multiple diseases termed breast cancer": phenomics/cellomics, connectomics and interactomics, secretomics, matrisomics, exosomics, angiomics, chaperomics and epichaperomics, phosphoproteomics, ubiquitinomics, metalloproteomics, terminomics, degradomics and metadegradomics, adhesomics, stressomics, microbiomics, immunomics, salivaomics, materiomics and other biomics. Throughout the extremely complex neoplastic process, a Breast Cancer Cell Continuum Concept (BCCCC) has been modeled in this review as a spatio-temporal and holistic approach, as long as the breast cancer represents a complex cascade comprising successively integrated populations of heterogeneous tumor and cancer-associated cells, that reflect the carcinoma's progression from a "driving mutation" and formation of the breast primary tumor, toward the distant secondary tumors in different tissues and organs, via circulating tumor cell populations. This BCCCC is widely sustained by a Breast Cancer Proteomic Continuum Concept (BCPCC), where each phenotype of neoplastic and tumor-associated cells is characterized by a changing and adaptive proteomic profile detected in solid and liquid minimal invasive biopsies by complex proteomics approaches. Such a profile is created, beginning with the proteomic landscape of different neoplastic cell populations and cancer-associated cells, followed by subsequent analysis of protein biomarkers involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and intravasation, circulating tumor cell proteomics, and, finally, by protein biomarkers that highlight the extravasation and distant metastatic invasion. Proteomics technologies are producing important data in breast cancer diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers discovery and validation, are detecting genetic aberrations at the proteome level, describing functional and regulatory pathways and emphasizing specific protein and peptide profiles in human tissues, biological fluids, cell lines and animal models. Also, proteomics can identify different breast cancer subtypes and specific protein and proteoform expression, can assess the efficacy of cancer therapies at cellular and tissular level and can even identify new therapeutic target proteins in clinical studies.

Long Non-Coding RNAs as Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Breast Cancer: Progress and Prospects

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. It is now well understood that breast cancer is a heterogeneous entity that exhibits distinctive histological and biological features, treatment responses and prognostic patterns. Therefore, the identification of novel ideal diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers is of utmost importance. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are commonly defined as transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that lack coding potential. Extensive research has shown that lncRNAs are involved in multiple human cancers, including breast cancer. LncRNAs with dysregulated expression can act as oncogenes or tumor-suppressor genes to regulate malignant transformation processes, such as proliferation, invasion, migration and drug resistance. Intriguingly, the expression profiles of lncRNAs tend to be highly cell-type-specific, tissue-specific, disease-specific or developmental stage-specific, which makes them suitable biomarkers for breast cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Cimigenoside functions as a novel γ-secretase inhibitor and inhibits the proliferation or metastasis of human breast cancer cells by γ-secretase/Notch axis

Breast cancer (BC) occurrence and development tremendously affect female health. Currently breast cancer targeted drugs are still scarce. Natural products have become the main source of targeted drug for breast cancer due to low toxicity and high efficiency. Cimigenoside, natural compound isolated and purified from Cimicifuga dahurica (Turcz.) Maxim has been suggested to utilize for breast cancer treatment, however the mechanism of action has not been elucidated yet. In this article, the antitumor potential of Cimigenoside against breast cancer in vitro and in vivo study. Moreover, we further predicted the possible binding mode of Cimigenoside with γ-secretase through molecular docking studies. The results show that Cimigenoside has a significant inhibitory effect towards the proliferation or metastasis of breast cancer cells via suppressing the Notch signaling pathway-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis and EMT (epithelial mesenchymal transition). In terms of mechanism, Cimigenoside could inhibit the activation of PSEN-1, the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase, and also by cleaving the Notch protein mediated by PSEN-1. Overall, our findings provide scientific support to utilize Cimigenoside as an effective targeted drug for clinical treatment of BC.

The many facets of Notch signaling in breast cancer: toward overcoming therapeutic resistance

In this review, Nandi et al. revisit the mechanisms by which Notch receptors and ligands contribute to normal mammary gland development and breast tumor progression. The authors also discuss combinatorial approaches aimed at disrupting Notch- and TME-mediated resistance that may improve prognosis in breast cancer patients.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women and is a complex disease with high intratumoral and intertumoral heterogeneity. Such heterogeneity is a major driving force behind failure of current therapies and development of resistance. Due to the limitations of conventional therapies and inevitable emergence of acquired drug resistance (chemo and endocrine) as well as radio resistance, it is essential to design novel therapeutic strategies to improve the prognosis for breast cancer patients. Deregulated Notch signaling within the breast tumor and its tumor microenvironment (TME) is linked to poor clinical outcomes in treatment of resistant breast cancer. Notch receptors and ligands are also important for normal mammary development, suggesting the potential for conserved signaling pathways between normal mammary gland development and breast cancer. In this review, we focus on mechanisms by which Notch receptors and ligands contribute to normal mammary gland development and breast tumor progression. We also discuss how complex interactions between cancer cells and the TME may reduce treatment efficacy and ultimately lead to acquired drug or radio resistance. Potential combinatorial approaches aimed at disrupting Notch- and TME-mediated resistance that may aid in achieving in an improved patient prognosis are also highlighted.

Celastrol and Triptolide Suppress Stemness in Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Notch as a Therapeutic Target for Stem Cells

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is observed in ~15% of breast cancers and results in poor survival and increased distant metastases. Within the tumor are present a small portion of cancer stem cells that drive tumorigenesis and metastasis. In this study, we aimed to elucidate whether the two natural compounds, celastrol and triptolide, inhibit stemness in TNBC. MDA-MB-231, BT20, and a patient-derived primary cells (PD-TNBC) were used in the study. Mammosphere assay was performed to assess the stemness. Both celastrol and triptolide treatment suppressed mammosphere formation. Furthermore, the compound suppressed expression of cancer stem cell marker proteins DCLK1, ALDH1, and CD133. Notch signaling plays a critical role in stem cells renewal. Both celastrol or triptolide reduced Notch -1 activation and expression of its downstream target proteins HES-1 and HEY-1. However, when NICD 1 was ectopically overexpressed in the cells, it partially rescued proliferation and mammosphere formation of the cells, supporting the role of notch signaling. Together, these data demonstrate that targeting stem cells and the notch signaling pathway may be an effective strategy for curtailing TNBC progression.

MIB1 upregulates IQGAP1 and promotes pancreatic cancer progression by inducing ST7 degradation

Despite recent progress in cancer treatment, the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer still remains poor. Pancreatic tumors are reported to display high molecular heterogeneity. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying pancreatic cancer progression is essential for improving patient treatment and survival. The overexpression of E3 ubiquitin ligase mind bomb 1 (MIB1) was previously described in pancreatic cancer cells, where it enhanced tumor cell proliferation. However, the role of MIB1 in pancreatic cancer progression remains elusive. In the present study, we confirmed that MIB1 expression is elevated in pancreatic cancer tissues and that high levels of MIB associate with unfavorable prognosis. Overexpression of MIB1 enhanced proliferation and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. We further investigated the molecular mechanisms downstream of MIB1 and observed for the first time that MIB1 targets suppressor of tumorigenicity 7 protein (ST7), previously described as suppressor of tumorigenicity, for proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, we found that ST7 suppressed tumor growth by downregulating IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) in pancreatic tumor cells. Thus, these data show that MIB1 promotes pancreatic cancer progression by inducing ST7 degradation followed by downregulation of IQGAP1 in pancreatic cancer cells. In conclusion, our research shows that the MIB1/ST7/IQGAP1 axis is essential for pancreatic cancer progression, and MIB1 inhibition may serve as a novel therapeutic strategy in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Novel molecular regulators of breast cancer stem cell plasticity and heterogeneity

Tumors consist of heterogeneous cell populations, and tumor heterogeneity plays key roles in regulating tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and resistance to anti-tumor therapies. More and more studies suggest that cancer stem cells (CSCs) promote tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance as well as are the major source for heterogeneity of cancer cells. CD24^-CD44⁺ and ALDH⁺ are the most common markers for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Previous studies showed that different BCSC markers label different BCSC populations, indicating the heterogeneity of BCSCs. Therefore, defining the regulation mechanisms of heterogeneous BCSCs is essential for precisely targeting BCSCs and treating breast cancer. In this review, we summarized the novel regulators existed in BCSCs and their niches for BCSC heterogeneity which has been discovered in recent years, and discussed their regulation mechanisms and the latest corresponding cancer treatments, which will extend our understanding on BCSC heterogeneity and plasticity, and provide better prognosis prediction and more efficient novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.

Comprehensive analysis of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network for bladder cancer

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators for various human cancers. However, these lncRNAs need to be further classified for cancer. In the present study, we identified novel competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network for bladder cancer (BC) and explored the gene functions of the ceRNA regulatory network.

Methods

Differential gene expression analysis were performed on The Cancer Genome Atlas Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma (TCGA-BLCA) datasets to identify differentially expressed messenger RNAs (mRNAs), lncRNAs, and microRNAs (miRNAs). Based on the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) hypothesis, a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was constructed using the StarBase database and visualization by Cytoscape software. Functional enrichment analyses of Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway were performed via R package ClusterProfiler. The protein-protein interaction network was constructed by STRING database and visualization by Cytoscape. Finally, we used CIBERSORT and the TIMER database to analyze the immune infiltrations for BC.

Results

The regulatory network was constructed via TCGA BLCA cohort. The differential expressions of lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA were 186, 200, and 2,661, respectively. There were 106 lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA included in the ceRNA network. In this network, Calcium Voltage-gated Channel Auxiliary Subunit Alpha2delta1 (CACNA2D1, P<0.001), domain containing engulfment adaptor1 (GULP1, P=0.001), latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein 1 (LTBP1, P=0.006), myosin light chain kinase (MYLK, P=0.001), serpin family E member 2 (SERPINE2, P=0.002), spectrin beta non-erythrocytic 2 (SPTBN2, P=0.047), and hsa-miR-590-3p (P<0.001) significantly affected the prognosis of BC patients. Functional enrichment analyses showed that the biological functions included negative regulation of protein phosphorylation, cell morphogenesis, and sensory organ morphogenesis. Important cancer pathways of KEGG included parathyroid hormone synthesis secretion action, the notch signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, the Rap1 signaling pathway, signaling pathways regulating the pluripotency of stem cells, and the transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway. Our findings demonstrated that the ceRNA network has important biological functions and a significant influence on the prognosis of BC.

Conclusions

The lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network constructed in the present study could provide useful insight into the underlying tumorigenesis of BC, and can determine new molecular biomarkers for the diagnosis and therapeutical treatment of BC.

Sea Urchin as a Universal Model for Studies of Gene Networks

The purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus has been used for over 150 years as a model organism in developmental biology. Using this model species, scientists have been able to describe, in detail, the mechanisms of cell cycle control and cell adhesion, fertilization, calcium signaling, cell differentiation, and death. Massive parallel sequencing of the sea urchin genome enabled the deciphering of the main components of gene regulatory networks during the activation of embryonic signaling pathways. This knowledge helped to extrapolate aberrations in somatic cells that may lead to diseases, including cancer in humans. Furthermore, since many, if not all, developmental signaling pathways were shown to be controlled by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), the sea urchin organism represents an attractive experimental model. In this review, we discuss the main discoveries in the genetics, genomics, and transcriptomics of sea urchins during embryogenesis with the main focus on the role of ncRNAs. This information may be useful for comparative studies between different organisms, and may help identify new regulatory networks controlled by ncRNAs.

Dll1+ quiescent tumor stem cells drive chemoresistance in breast cancer through NF-κB survival pathway

Development of chemoresistance in breast cancer patients greatly increases mortality. Thus, understanding mechanisms underlying breast cancer resistance to chemotherapy is of paramount importance to overcome this clinical challenge. Although activated Notch receptors have been associated with chemoresistance in cancer, the specific Notch ligands and their molecular mechanisms leading to chemoresistance in breast cancer remain elusive. Using conditional knockout and reporter mouse models, we demonstrate that tumor cells expressing the Notch ligand Dll1 is important for tumor growth and metastasis and bear similarities to tumor-initiating cancer cells (TICs) in breast cancer. RNA-seq and ATAC-seq using reporter models and patient data demonstrated that NF-κB activation is downstream of Dll1 and is associated with a chemoresistant phenotype. Finally, pharmacological blocking of Dll1 or NF-κB pathway completely sensitizes Dll1⁺ tumors to chemotherapy, highlighting therapeutic avenues for chemotherapy resistant breast cancer patients in the near future.

γ-Secretase inhibitors for breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma: From mechanism to treatment

The γ-secretase complex is a key hydrolase for many type 1 transmembrane proteins. It is very important for activation of the Notch receptor and regulation of target-gene transcription. Abnormal activation and expression of the Notch pathway are closely related to the occurrence and development of many tumor types, including breast cancer and liver cancer. In this review, we elaborated on the basic situation of γ-secretase complex and the biological function and role of γ-secretase in APP and Notch signal pathway are described in detail. Subsequently, all currently known γ-secretase inhibitors and γ-secretase modulators are listed and their mechanism of action, value of IC₅₀, chemical structure and current research stage are summarized. Next, the selection presented the treatment progress of γ-secretase inhibitors in breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma in the past five years. Finally, the mechanism of action of γ-secretase-mediated breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma and the advantages and disadvantages of γ-secretase inhibitors are discussed, and the concept of further research is proposed.

Functional Gene Expression Differentiation of the Notch Signaling Pathway in Female Reproductive Tract Tissues-A Comprehensive Review With Analysis

The Notch pathway involves evolutionarily conserved signaling regulating the development of the female tract organs such as breast, ovary, cervix, and uterine endometrium. A great number of studies revealed Notch aberrancies in association with their carcinogenesis and disease progression, the management of which is still challenging. The present study is a comprehensive review of the available literature on Notch signaling during the normal development and carcinogenesis of the female tract organs. The review has been enriched with our analyses of the TCGA data including breast, cervical, ovarian, and endometrial carcinomas concerning the effects of Notch signaling at two levels: the core components and downstream effectors, hence filling the lack of global overview of Notch-driven carcinogenesis and disease progression. Phenotype heterogeneity regarding Notch signaling was projected in two uniform manifold approximation and projection algorithm dimensions, preceded by the principal component analysis step reducing the data burden. Additionally, overall and disease-free survival analyses were performed with the optimal cutpoint determination by Evaluate Cutpoints software to establish the character of particular Notch components in tumorigenesis. In addition to the review, we demonstrated separate models of the examined cancers of the Notch pathway and its targets, although expression profiles of all normal tissues were much more similar to each other than to its cancerous compartments. Such Notch-driven cancerous differentiation resulted in a case of opposite association with DFS and OS. As a consequence, target genes also show very distinct profiles including genes associated with cell proliferation and differentiation, energy metabolism, or the EMT. In conclusion, the observed Notch associations with the female tract malignancies resulted from differential expression of target genes. This may influence a future analysis to search for new therapeutic targets based on specific Notch pathway profiles.

Signaling Functions of Intramembrane Aspartyl-Proteases

Intramembrane proteolysis is more than a mechanism to “clean” the membranes from proteins no longer needed. By non-reversibly modifying transmembrane proteins, intramembrane cleaving proteases hold key roles in multiple signaling pathways and often distinguish physiological from pathological conditions. Signal peptide peptidase (SPP) and signal peptide peptidase-like proteases (SPPLs) recently have been associated with multiple functions in the field of signal transduction. SPP/SPPLs together with presenilins (PSs) are the only two families of intramembrane cleaving aspartyl proteases known in mammals. PS1 or PS2 comprise the catalytic center of the γ-secretase complex, which is well-studied in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The mammalian SPP/SPPL family of intramembrane cleaving proteases consists of five members: SPP and its homologous proteins SPPL2a, SPPL2b, SPPL2c, and SPPL3. Although these proteases were discovered due to their homology to PSs, it became evident in the past two decades that no physiological functions are shared between these two families. Based on studies in cell culture models various substrates of SPP/SPPL proteases have been identified in the past years and recently-developed mouse lines lacking individual members of this protease family, will help to further clarify the physiological functions of these proteases. In this review we concentrate on signaling roles of mammalian intramembrane cleaving aspartyl proteases. In particular, we will highlight the signaling roles of PS via its substrates NOTCH, VEGF, and others, mainly focusing on its involvement in vasculature. Delineating also signaling pathways that are affected and/or controlled by SPP/SPPL proteases. From SPP's participation in tumor progression and survival, to SPPL3's regulation of protein glycosylation and SPPL2c's control over cellular calcium stores, various crossovers between proteolytic activity of intramembrane proteases and cell signaling will be described.