Tumor necrosis factor-alpha is a potent endogenous mutagen that promotes cellular transformation

Friend or Foe: Exploring the Relationship between the Gut Microbiota and the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Digestive Cancers

Digestive cancers are among the leading causes of cancer death in the world. However, the mechanisms of cancer development and progression are not fully understood. Accumulating evidence in recent years pointing to the bidirectional interactions between gut dysbiosis and the development of a specific type of gastrointestinal cancer is shedding light on the importance of this "unseen organ"-the microbiota. This review focuses on the local role of the gut microbiota imbalance in different digestive tract organs and annexes related to the carcinogenic mechanisms. Microbiota modulation, either by probiotic administration or by dietary changes, plays an important role in the future therapies of various digestive cancers.

SIRP-alpha-IL-6 axis induces immunosuppressive macrophages in non-small-cell lung cancer

Signal regulatory protein-alpha (SIRPα) and IL-6 participate in the induction of tumor immune suppressive environment and facilitate tumor growth. In this study, we found that SIRPα was significantly elevated in macrophages of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues, which was positively correlated to the expression of CD163, PD-1, IL-6, and lung cancer progression. SIRPα in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of NSCLC patients was also associated with CD163, PD-1, and plasma IL-6. Blockade of SIRPα signaling in SIRPα ± and SIRPα-/- mice attenuated lung cancer growth and reduced IL-6 expression in LLC cells-transplanted murine lung cancer model. Co-targeting SIRPα and IL-6 additively suppressed the expression of IL-6 and activation of STAT3, accompanied with a reduced population of pro-tumorigenic CD206+ M2 subtype of macrophages, PD-1+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and PD-1+CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues of anti-IL-6 antibody (aIL-6)-treated mice deficient in SIRPα. Further in vitro studies showed that blockade of SIRPα signaling by anti-SIRPα effectively improved phagocytosis of human PBMCs. IL-6 treatment improved polarization of M2 subtypes and the expression of PD-1 in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs); whereas both aIL-6 and STAT3 inhibitor C188-9 suppressed the expression of PD-1 and SIRPα in BMDMs. M2 cell-biased polarization was also reduced in aIL-6 or C188-9 treated BMDMs. Thereby, SIRPα and IL-6 form a positive feedback loop and regulate each other through STAT3 signaling in macrophages. The increased SIRPα/IL-6 axis may promote immune suppressive environment and lung cancer growth, which may be a potential target for clinical treatment.

The role and participation of immune cells in the endometrial tumor microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment is surrounded by blood vessels and consists of malignant, non-malignant, and immune cells, as well as signalling molecules, which primarily affect the therapeutic response and curative effects of drugs in clinical studies. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells participate in tumor progression, impact anticancer therapy, and eventually lead to the development of immune tolerance. Immunotherapy is evolving as a promising therapeutic intervention to stimulate and activate the immune system to suppress cancer cell growth. Endometrial cancer (EC) is an immunogenic disease, and in recent years, immunotherapy has shown benefit in the treatment of recurrent and advanced EC. This review discusses the key molecular pathways associated with the intra-tumoral immune response and the involvement of circulatory signalling molecules. Specific immunologic signatures in EC which offer targets for immunomodulating agents, are also discussed. We have summarized the available literature in support of using immunotherapy in EC. Lastly, we have also discussed ongoing clinical trials that may offer additional promising immunotherapy options in the future. The manuscript also explored innovative approaches for screening and identifying effective drugs, and to reduce the financial burdens for the development of personalized treatment strategies. Collectively, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the role of immune cells and the tumor microenvironment in the development, progression, and treatment of EC.

Exploring the potential of ToxCast™ data for mechanism-based prioritization of chemicals in regulatory context: Case study with priority existing chemicals (PECs) under K-REACH

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of ToxCast™ database to mechanism-based prioritization of chemicals. To explore the applicability of ToxCast data in the context of regulatory inventory chemicals, we screened 510 priority existing chemicals (PECs) regulated under the Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Substances (K-REACH) using ToxCast bioassays. In our analysis, a hit-call data matrix containing 298984 chemical-gene interactions was computed for 949 bioassays with the intended target genes, which enabled the identification of the putative toxicity mechanisms. Based on the reactivity to the chemicals, we analyzed 412 bioassays whose intended target gene families were cytochrome P450, oxidoreductase, transporter, nuclear receptor, steroid hormone, and DNA-binding. We also identified 141 chemicals based on their reactivity in the bioassays. These chemicals are mainly in consumer products including colorants, preservatives, air fresheners, and detergents. Our analysis revealed that in vitro bioactivities were involved in the relevant mechanisms inducing in vivo toxicity; however, this was not sufficient to predict more hazardous chemicals. Overall, the current results point to a potential and limitation in using ToxCast data for chemical prioritization in regulatory context in the absence of suitable in vivo data.

Fatal Progression of Mutated TP53-Associated Clonal Hematopoiesis following Anti-CD19 CAR-T Cell Therapy

We present the case of a 64-year-old man diagnosed with large B-cell lymphoma who relapsed twice after standard-of-care therapy. Due to persisting cytopenia, Next generation sequencing analysis was performed, revealing a small TP53-mutated clone. As a third-line therapy, the patient was treated with CAR-T cells, which resulted in complete remission. However, this treatment also led to the expansion of the TP53-mutated clone and therapy-related myelodysplasia with a complex aberrant karyotype. This case may serve as a paradigmatic example of clonal hematopoietic progression in a patient undergoing CAR-T cell therapy, especially in the context of a TP53-mutated clone.

Synthetic Lignin-Derived Therapeutic Nano Reagent as Intestinal pH-Sensitive Drug Carriers Capable of Bypassing the Gastric Acid Environment for Colitis Treatment

Oral drug delivery is a common route for management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but suffers from low bioavailability and systemic side effects during passage through the alimentary canal. Here, we present a therapeutic nano reagent of a ferulic acid-derived lignin nanoparticle (FALNP). We showed that FALNP with favorable antioxidant activity can regulate IBD. More importantly, the intestinal pH-responsive degradability of FALNP allows it to withstand the harsh gastric acid environment, bypass physiological barriers, and target the intestine for gastrointestinal delivery. In vivo experiments showed that oral administration of FALNP markedly relieved pathological symptoms in a mouse model of acute colitis by reducing oxidative stress and regulating the gut microbiome. By integrating anti-inflammatory medicine, FALNP also can be used as a bioactive carrier to exert a potent synergistic therapeutic effect. In addition to colitis, FALNP can be readily adaptable for use as a carrier platform for therapy of many other intestinal diseases.

Biosensor Detection of COVID-19 in Lung Cancer: Hedgehog and Mucin Signaling Insights

Coronavirus disease 2019 is a global pandemic, particularly affecting individuals with pre-existing lung conditions and potentially leading to pulmonary fibrosis. Age and healthcare system limitations further amplify susceptibility to both diseases, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The intricate relationship between Coronavirus disease 2019 and lung cancer highlights their clinical implications and the potential for early detection through biosensor techniques involving hedgehog and mucin signaling. This study highlights the connection between Coronavirus disease 2019 and lung cancer, focusing on the mucosa, angiotensin- altering enzyme 2 receptors, and their impact on the immune system. It details the inflammatory mechanisms triggered by Coronavirus disease 2019, which can result in pulmonary fibrosis and influence the cancer microenvironment. Various cytokines like Interleukins-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha are examined for their roles in both diseases. Moreover, the review delves into the Hedgehog signaling pathways and their significance in lung cancer, particularly their influence on embryonic cell proliferation and tissue integrity. Mucin signaling is another vital aspect, highlighting the diverse mucin expression patterns in respiratory epithelial tissues and their potential as biomarkers. The review concludes with insights into diagnostic imaging techniques like chest computed tomography, Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging for early lung cancer detection, emphasizing the crucial role of biosensors in identifying specific biomarkers for early disease detection. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical impact of Coronavirus disease 2019 on lung cancer patients and the potential for biosensors utilizing hedgehog and mucin signaling for early detection. It underscores the ongoing need for research and innovation to address these critical healthcare challenges.

Potential role of melatonin in prevention and treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the most lethal cancer worldwide. Melatonin, an indoleamine produced in the pineal gland, shows anticancer effects on a variety of cancers, especially lung cancer. Herein, we clarify the pathophysiology of lung cancer, the association of circadian rhythm with lung, and the relationship between shift work and the incidence of lung cancer. Special focus is placed on the role of melatonin receptors in lung cancer, the relationship between inflammation and lung cancer, control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and immunomodulation in lung cancer by melatonin. A review of the drug synergy of melatonin with other anticancer drugs suggests its usefulness in combination therapy. In summary, the information compiled may serve as a comprehensive reference for the various mechanisms of action of melatonin against lung cancer, as a guide for the design of future experimental research and for advancing melatonin as a therapeutic agent for lung cancer.

Atractylone Alleviates Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rat with Altered Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Background

Gastric ulcer (GU) is the most common multifactor gastrointestinal disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. There is evidence that gut microbiota is closely related to the development of GU. Atractylone (ATR) has been reported to possess potential biological activities, but research on ATR alleviating GU injury is unprecedented.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-induced GU model in zebrafish and ethanol-induced acute GU model in rat were established to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and ulcer inhibitory effects of ATR. Then, 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics analysis were performed to investigate the effect of ATR on the microbiota and metabolites in rat feces and their correlation.

Results

Therapeutically, ATR inhibited H. pylori-induced gastric mucosal injury in zebrafish. In the ulceration model of rat, ATR mitigated the gastric lesions damage caused by ethanol, decreased the ulcer area, and reduced the production of inflammatory factors. Additionally, ATR alleviated the gastric oxidative stress injury by increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and decreasing the level of malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, ATR played a positive role in relieving ulcer through reshaping gut microbiota composition including Parabacteroides and Bacteroides and regulating the levels of metabolites including amino acids, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bile acids.

Conclusion

Our work sheded light on the mechanism of ATR treating GU from the perspective of the gut microbiota and explored the correlation between gut microbiota, metabolites, and host phenotype.

Cellular Carcinogenesis: Role of Polarized Macrophages in Cancer Initiation

Simple Summary

Inflammation is a hallmark of many cancers. Macrophages are key participants in innate immunity and important drivers of inflammation. When chronically polarized beyond normal homeostatic responses to infection, injury, or aging, macrophages can express several pro-carcinogenic phenotypes. In this review, evidence supporting polarized macrophages as endogenous sources of carcinogenesis is discussed. In addition, the depletion or modulation of macrophages by small molecule inhibitors and probiotics are reviewed as emerging strategies in cancer prevention.

Abstract

Inflammation is an essential hallmark of cancer. Macrophages are key innate immune effector cells in chronic inflammation, parainflammation, and inflammaging. Parainflammation is a form of subclinical inflammation associated with a persistent DNA damage response. Inflammaging represents low-grade inflammation due to the dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune responses that occur with aging. Whether induced by infection, injury, or aging, immune dysregulation and chronic macrophage polarization contributes to cancer initiation through the production of proinflammatory chemokines/cytokines and genotoxins and by modulating immune surveillance. This review presents pre-clinical and clinical evidence for polarized macrophages as endogenous cellular carcinogens in the context of chronic inflammation, parainflammation, and inflammaging. Emerging strategies for cancer prevention, including small molecule inhibitors and probiotic approaches, that target macrophage function and phenotype are also discussed.

Synergistic anti-inflammatory effects of graphene oxide quantum dots and trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells

Graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) have attracted substantial attention in numerous fields due to their unique physicochemical properties. However, their nanotoxicity and potential for use in biomedicine still require further study. In this work, the effects of GOQD and trans- 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA) cotreatment on the immune function of macrophages (RAW264.7 cells) were investigated. In particular, LC/MS-based metabolomics was performed to evaluate the effects of GOQDs on the metabolism of LPS-stimulated macrophages. Herein, we fabricated GOQDs with good dispersibility and a uniform size distribution of approximately 7 nm using a polyimide-pyrolyzed carbon film as the working electrode, a high-voltage graphite electrode as the cathode, and H₂O₂ as the oxidant. The GOQDs entered the macrophages and emitted green fluorescence under UV irradiation. Cotreatment with GOQDs and 10-HDA induced RAW 264.7 cell proliferation. GOQDs promoted the anti-inflammatory effect of 10-HDA on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and attenuated the secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. The metabolites in RAW264.7 cells treated with GOQDs were significantly different from those in RAW264.7 cells treated with LPS. The enrichment analysis showed that treatment with GOQDs interfered with amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Our results demonstrate the role of GOQDs in macrophages and provide a basis for their further application in biomedical fields.

Tobacco Smoke and Electronic Cigarette Vapor Alter Enhancer RNA Expression That Can Regulate the Pathogenesis of Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Simple Summary

It is well established that tobacco smoke is the key player in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) pathogenesis, and there is growing evidence that electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) vapor may also cause LUSC. Recently, several studies have associated tobacco smoke with differential enhancer RNA (eRNA) expression. However, the effects of tobacco smoke and e-cigarette vapor on eRNA expression in correlation to LUSC outcomes have not been fully elucidated. This study demonstrates that tobacco smoke and e-cigarette vapor may decrease DNA methylation and increase chromosomal alterations at key sites, which ultimately upregulate the expression of oncogenic eRNAs and downregulate the expression of tumor-suppressing eRNAs. Subsequently, we demonstrate that these eRNAs may have altered interactions with immune cells to promote LUSC pathogenesis and reduced patient survival. We hope our results can be validated in future studies, and the key eRNAs we identified may be used as effective targets for more specialized treatments for smoking-mediated LUSC.

Abstract

Tobacco is the primary etiologic agent in worsened lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) outcomes. Meanwhile, it has been shown that etiologic agents alter enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) expression. Therefore, we aimed to identify the effects of tobacco and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use on eRNA expression in relation to LUSC outcomes. We extracted eRNA counts from RNA-sequencing data of tumor/adjacent normal tissue and before/after e-cigarette tissue from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), respectively. Tobacco-mediated LUSC eRNAs were correlated to patient survival, clinical variables, and immune-associated elements. eRNA expression was also correlated to mutation rates through the Repeated Evaluation of Variables Conditional Entropy and Redundance (REVEALER) algorithm and methylated sites through methylationArrayAnalysis. Differential expression analysis was then completed for the e-cigarette data to compare with key tobacco-mediated eRNAs. We identified 684 downregulated eRNAs and 819 upregulated eRNAs associated with tobacco-mediated LUSC, specifically, with the cancer pathological stage. We also observed a decrease in immune cell abundance in tobacco-mediated LUSC. Yet, we found an increased association of eRNA expression with immune cell abundance in tobacco-mediated LUSC. We identified 16 key eRNAs with significant correlations to 8 clinical variables, implicating these eRNAs in LUSC malignancy. Furthermore, we observed that these 16 eRNAs were highly associated with chromosomal alterations and reduced CpG site methylation. Finally, we observed large eRNA expression upregulation with e-cigarette use, which corresponded to the upregulation of the 16 key eRNAs. Our findings provide a novel mechanism by which tobacco and e-cigarette smoke influences eRNA interactions to promote LUSC pathogenesis and provide insight regarding disease progression at a molecular level.

TNFα and Immune Checkpoint Inhibition: Friend or Foe for Lung Cancer?

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) can bind two distinct receptors (TNFR1/2). The transmembrane form (tmTNFα) preferentially binds to TNFR2. Upon tmTNFα cleavage by the TNF-alpha-converting enzyme (TACE), its soluble (sTNFα) form is released with higher affinity for TNFR1. This assortment empowers TNFα with a plethora of opposing roles in the processes of tumor cell survival (and apoptosis) and anti-tumor immune stimulation (and suppression), in addition to angiogenesis and metastases. Its functions and biomarker potential to predict cancer progression and response to immunotherapy are reviewed here, with a focus on lung cancer. By mining existing sequencing data, we further demonstrate that the expression levels of TNF and TACE are significantly decreased in lung adenocarcinoma patients, while the TNFR1/TNFR2 balance are increased. We conclude that the biomarker potential of TNFα alone will most likely not provide conclusive findings, but that TACE could have a key role along with the delicate balance of sTNFα/tmTNFα as well as TNFR1/TNFR2, hence stressing the importance of more research into the potential of rationalized treatments that combine TNFα pathway modulators with immunotherapy for lung cancer patients.

Modulation of mitochondrial and inflammatory homeostasis through RIP140 is neuroprotective in an adrenoleukodystrophy mouse model

AIMS

Mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation are at the core of axonal degeneration in several multifactorial neurodegenerative diseases, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. The transcriptional coregulator RIP140/NRIP1 (receptor-interacting protein 140) modulates these functions in liver and adipose tissue, but its role in the nervous system remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the impact of RIP140 in the Abcd1^- mouse model of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), a genetic model of chronic axonopathy involving the convergence of redox imbalance, bioenergetic failure, and chronic inflammation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We provide evidence that RIP140 is modulated through a redox-dependent mechanism driven by very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), the levels of which are increased in X-ALD. Genetic inactivation of RIP140 prevented mitochondrial depletion and dysfunction, bioenergetic failure, inflammatory dysregulation, axonal degeneration and associated locomotor disabilities in vivo in X-ALD mouse models.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, these findings show that aberrant overactivation of RIP140 promotes neurodegeneration in X-ALD, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic target for X-ALD and other neurodegenerative disorders that present with metabolic and inflammatory dyshomeostasis.

S1P signaling, its interactions and cross-talks with other partners and therapeutic importance in colorectal cancer

Sphingosine-1-Phosphate (S1P) plays an important role in normal physiology, inflammation, initiation and progression of cancer. Deregulation of S1P signaling causes aberrant proliferation, affects survival, leads to angiogenesis and metastasis. Sphingolipid rheostat is crucial for cellular homeostasis. Discrepancy in sphingolipid metabolism is linked to cancer and drug insensitivity. Owing to these diverse functions and being a potent mediator of tumor growth, S1P signaling might be a suitable candidate for anti-tumor therapy or combination therapy. In this review, with a focus on colorectal cancer we have summarized the interacting partners of S1P signaling pathway, its therapeutic approaches along with the contribution of S1P signaling to various cancer hallmarks.

Mutagenic Consequences of Sublethal Cell Death Signaling

Many human cancers exhibit defects in key DNA damage response elements that can render tumors insensitive to the cell death-promoting properties of DNA-damaging therapies. Using agents that directly induce apoptosis by targeting apoptotic components, rather than relying on DNA damage to indirectly stimulate apoptosis of cancer cells, may overcome classical blocks exploited by cancer cells to evade apoptotic cell death. However, there is increasing evidence that cells surviving sublethal exposure to classical apoptotic signaling may recover with newly acquired genomic changes which may have oncogenic potential, and so could theoretically spur the development of subsequent cancers in cured patients. Encouragingly, cells surviving sublethal necroptotic signaling did not acquire mutations, suggesting that necroptosis-inducing anti-cancer drugs may be less likely to trigger therapy-related cancers. We are yet to develop effective direct inducers of other cell death pathways, and as such, data regarding the consequences of cells surviving sublethal stimulation of those pathways are still emerging. This review details the currently known mutagenic consequences of cells surviving different cell death signaling pathways, with implications for potential oncogenic transformation. Understanding the mechanisms of mutagenesis associated (or not) with various cell death pathways will guide us in the development of future therapeutics to minimize therapy-related side effects associated with DNA damage.

Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) enhances dietary carcinogen-induced DNA damage in colorectal cancer epithelial cells through activation of JNK signaling pathway

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazol [4,5-b] pyridine (PhIP) present in cooked meat are pro-carcinogens and considered to be potential risk factors for CRC. Their carcinogenic and mutagenic effects require metabolic activation primarily by cytochrome P450 1 family enzymes (CYPs); the expression of these enzymes can be modulated by aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation and the tumour microenvironment, involving mediators of inflammation. In this study, we hypothesized that tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a key mediator of inflammation, modulates BaP- and PhIP-induced DNA damage in colon cancer epithelial cells. Importantly, we observed that TNF-α alone (0.1-100 pg/ml) induced DNA damage (micronuclei formation) in HCT-116 cells and co-treatment of TNF-α with BaP or PhIP showed higher levels of DNA damage compared to the individual single treatments. TNF-α alone or in combination with BaP or PhIP did not affect the expression levels of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 (target genes of AhR signaling pathways). The DNA damage induced by TNF-α was elevated in p53 null HTC-116 cells compared to wild type cells, suggesting that TNF-α-induced DNA damage is suppressed by functional p53. In contrast, p53 status failed to affect BaP and PhIP induced micronucleus frequency. Furthermore, JNK and NF-κB signaling pathway were activated by TNF-α treatment but only inhibition of JNK significantly reduced TNF-α-induced DNA damage. Collectively, these findings suggest that TNF-α induced DNA damage involves JNK signaling pathway rather than AhR and NF-κB pathways in colon cancer epithelial cells.

It takes a village: microbiota, parainflammation, paligenosis and bystander effects in colorectal cancer initiation

Sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of worldwide cancer mortality. It arises from a complex milieu of host and environmental factors, including genetic and epigenetic changes in colon epithelial cells that undergo mutation, selection, clonal expansion, and transformation. The gut microbiota has recently gained increasing recognition as an additional important factor contributing to CRC. Several gut bacteria are known to initiate CRC in animal models and have been associated with human CRC. In this Review, we discuss the factors that contribute to CRC and the role of the gut microbiota, focusing on a recently described mechanism for cancer initiation, the so-called microbiota-induced bystander effect (MIBE). In this cancer mechanism, microbiota-driven parainflammation is believed to act as a source of endogenous mutation, epigenetic change and induced pluripotency, leading to the cancerous transformation of colon epithelial cells. This theory links the gut microbiota to key risk factors and common histologic features of sporadic CRC. MIBE is analogous to the well-characterized radiation-induced bystander effect. Both phenomena drive DNA damage, chromosomal instability, stress response signaling, altered gene expression, epigenetic modification and cellular proliferation in bystander cells. Myeloid-derived cells are important effectors in both phenomena. A better understanding of the interactions between the gut microbiota and mucosal immune effector cells that generate bystander effects can potentially identify triggers for parainflammation, and gain new insights into CRC prevention.

AWP1 Restrains the Aggressive Behavior of Breast Cancer Cells Induced by TNF-α

TNF-α plays a crucial role in cancer initiation and progression by enhancing cancer cell proliferation, survival, and migration. Even though the known functional role of AWP1 (zinc finger AN1 type-6, ZFAND6) is as a key mediator of TNF-α signaling, its potential role in the TNF-α-dependent responses of cancer cells remains unclear. In our current study, we found that an AWP1 knockdown using short hairpin RNAs increases the migratory potential of non-aggressive MCF-7 breast cancer cells with no significant alteration of their proliferation in response to TNF-α. A CRISPR/Cas9-mediated AWP1 knockout in MCF-7 cells led to mesenchymal cell type morphological changes and an accelerated motility. TNF-α administration further increased this migratory capacity of these AWP1-depleted cells through the activation of NF-κB accompanied by increased epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related gene expression. In particular, an AWP1 depletion augmented the expression of Nox1, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating enzymes, and ROS levels and subsequently promoted the migratory potential of MCF-7 cells mediated by TNF-α. These TNF-α-mediated increases in the chemotactic migration of AWP1 knockout cells were completely abrogated by an NF-κB inhibitor and a ROS scavenger. Our results suggest that a loss-of-function of AWP1 alters the TNF-α response of non-aggressive breast cancer cells by potentiating ROS-dependent NF-κB activation.

Oral microbiota and Helicobacter pylori in gastric carcinogenesis: what do we know and where next?

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignancies causing death worldwide, and Helicobacter pylori is a powerful inducer of precancerous lesions and GC. The oral microbiota is a complex ecosystem and is responsible for maintaining homeostasis, modulating the immune system, and resisting pathogens. It has been proposed that the gastric microbiota of oral origin is involved in the development and progression of GC. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between oral microbiota and GC and the role of H. pylori in this relationship is still controversial. This study was set to review the investigations done on oral microbiota and analyze various lines of evidence regarding the role of oral microbiota in GC, to date. Also, we discussed the interaction and relationship between H. pylori and oral microbiota in GC and the current understanding with regard to the underlying mechanisms of oral microbiota in carcinogenesis. More importantly, detecting the patterns of interaction between the oral cavity microbiota and H. pylori may render new clues for the diagnosis or screening of cancer. Integration of oral microbiota and H. pylori might manifest a potential method for the assessment of GC risk. Hence it needs to be specified the patterns of bacterial transmission from the oral cavity to the stomach and their interaction. Further evidence on the mechanisms underlying the oral microbiota communities and how they trigger GC may contribute to the identification of new prevention methods for GC. We may then modulate the oral microbiota by intervening with oral-gastric bacterial transmission or controlling certain bacteria in the oral cavity.

Enhanced immune responses, PI3K/AKT and JAK/STAT signaling pathways following hepatitis C virus eradication by direct-acting antiviral therapy among Egyptian patients: a case control study

The use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) results in a high-sustained virological response (SVR) and subsequently alters liver immunologic environment. However, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may occur after DAAs treatment. We aimed to clarify changes of immune responses, PI3K/AKT and JAK/STAT signaling pathways in HCV-induced liver diseases and HCC following DAAs treatment. Four cohorts were classified as chronic HCV patients, HCV-related cirrhosis without HCC, HCV-related cirrhosis and HCC, and healthy control group. The patient groups were further divided into treated or untreated with DAAs with SVR12. Increased percentages of CD3, CD8 and CD4, decreased CD4/FoxP3/CD25, CD8/PD-1 and CD19/PDL-1 were found in DAAs-treated patients in the three HCV groups. Following DAAs therapy, the levels of ROS, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were significantly decreased in the three HCV groups. Treated HCV patients showed up regulation of p-AKT and p-STAT5 and down regulation of p-STAT3, HIF-1α and COX-2. In conclusion, DAAs enhance the immune response in chronic HCV and liver cirrhosis, hence our study is the first to show change in PI3K/AKT and JAK/STAT signaling pathways in different HCV-induced liver diseases after DAAs. In chronic HCV, DAAs have better impact on the immune response while in liver cirrhosis not all immune changes were prominent.

Dual influence of TNFα on diverse in vitro models of ovarian cancer subtypes

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological cancer. Numerous subtypes exist, each with distinct risk factors and prognosis. What underlies these subtypes and their progression is not clear, although inflammation through NFκB may play a key role. We performed a study on a series of well-characterized in vitro ovarian cancer models including TOV21G, TOV112D and OV90 originally derived from clear cell, endometrioid and high grade serous carcinoma respectively. Cells were treated with 0-100 ng/ml TNFα over 6-72 h. The NFκB pathway was inhibited by a series of NFκB pathway inhibitors, 100μM PDTC, 1μM PS-1145 and 200nM TPCA and the influence on cellular viability and inflammation was measured via an MTS assay and qPCR respectively. TNFα stimulation of NFκB was confirmed via Western blot. We found TNFα facilitated continued growth of TOV21G and TOV112D cells in an NFκB independent method. In contrast, TNFα inhibited OV90 cell growth in an NFκB dependent manner. TNFα stimulated production of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and RANTES on all three cells lines, but only IL-6 and IL-8 were via NFκB mediated mechanisms. These results indicate TNFα may have diverse effects mediated through both NFκB and non-NFκB pathways on ovarian cancer cells. Understanding the role for TNFα in each subtype may have significant implications for charting disease progression and designing personalized treatments.

The BRCA1 Pseudogene Negatively Regulates Antitumor Responses through Inhibition of Innate Immune Defense Mechanisms

Innate immune defense mechanisms play a pivotal role in antitumor responses. Recent evidence suggests that antiviral innate immunity is regulated not only by exogenous non-self-RNA but also by host-derived pseudogene RNAs. A growing body of evidence also indicates a biological role for pseudogenes as gene expression regulators or immune modulators. Here, we report an important role for BRCA1P1, the pseudogene of the BRCA1 tumor-suppressor gene, in regulating innate immune defense mechanisms in breast cancer cells. BRCA1P1 expresses a long-noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in breast cancer cells through divergent transcription. Expression of lncRNA-BRCA1P1 is increased in breast tumors compared with normal breast tissues. Depletion of BRCA1P1 induces an antiviral defense-like program, including the expression of antiviral genes in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, BRCA1P1-deficient cancer cells mimic virus-infected cells by stimulating cytokines and inducing cell apoptosis. Accordingly, depletion of BRCA1P1 increases host innate immune responses and restricts virus replication. In converse, overexpression of BRCA1P1 reduces cytokine expression in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, lncRNA-BRCA1P1 is localized in the nucleus, binds to the NF-κB subunit RelA, and negatively regulates antiviral gene expression. Finally, in a xenograft mouse model of breast cancer, depletion of BRCA1P1 stimulates cytokine expression and local immunity, and suppresses tumor growth. Our results suggest an important role for BRCA1P1 in innate immune defense mechanisms and antitumor responses. This mechanism of antiviral immunity regulated by a host-derived pseudogene RNA may guide the development of novel therapies targeting immune responses in breast cancer. SIGNIFICANCE: This study identifies a novel mechanism of innate immunity driven by a host pseudogene RNA that inhibits innate immune defense mechanisms and antitumor responses through regulation of antiviral gene expression.

Effect of COVID-19 on Lungs: Focusing on Prospective Malignant Phenotypes

Currently, the healthcare management systems are shattered throughout the world, even in the developed nations due to the COVID-19 viral outbreak. A substantial number of patients infected with SARS-CoV2 develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and need advanced healthcare facilities, including invasive mechanical ventilation. Intracellular infiltration of the SARS-CoV2 virus particles into the epithelial cells in lungs are facilitated by the spike glycoprotein (S Protein) on the outer side of the virus envelope, a membrane protein ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) and two proteases (TMPRSS2 and Furin) in the host cell. This virus has unprecedented effects on the immune system and induces a sudden upregulation of the levels of different pro-inflammatory cytokines. This can be a cause for the onset of pulmonary fibrosis in the lungs. Existence of a high concentration of inflammatory cytokines and viral load can also lead to numerous pathophysiological conditions. Although it is well established that cancer patients are among the high-risk population due to COVID-19-associated mortality, it is still unknown whether survivors of COVID-19-infected subjects are at high-risk population for developing cancer and whether any biologic and clinical features exist in post-COVID-19 individuals that might be related to carcinogenesis.

Prevalence and association of Epstein-Barr virus infection with sinonasal inverted papilloma and sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma in the northeastern Thai population

Aims

Sinonasal inverted papillomas (SIP) and sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas (SNSCC) are sinonasal tumors with unclear etiology and pathogenesis. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been detected in these tumors but information concerning their association is still limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence in, and association of EBV infection with SIP and SNSCC in northeastern Thailand.

Methods

DNA was extracted from 226 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues including 80 nasal polyps (NP; the control group), 64 SIP and 82 SNSCC samples. Presence of EBV in these tissues was investigated using real-time PCR and their localization within tissues was confirmed using in situ hybridization (ISH). Characteristics of patients and the association of EBV prevalence with sinonasal tumors were analyzed.

Results

SIP and SNSCC were frequently found in people aged > 50 years and more often in males than in females (3:1 ratio). EBV infection was detected in 33.75, 64.06 and 37.80% of NP, SIP and SNSCC tissues, respectively, by real-time PCR. There was a statistically significant association between EBV infection and SIP (odds ratio [OR] = 3.52). This was not the case for SNSCC when compared to the NP group (OR = 1.83). Interestingly, EBV infection tended to be associated with inflammation and dysplasia in SIP. In SNSCC, EBV was mostly found in samples with undifferentiated or poorly differentiated cell types as well as in recurrent cases and lymph-node metastasis. Using ISH, EBV was detected only in infiltrating lymphocytes within the tumor stroma, not in the tumor epithelial cells.

Conclusions

Infiltrating lymphocytes containing EBV in the tumor microenvironment might enhance tumorigenesis of SIP and SNSCC. The mechanism by which EBV promotes development of SIP and SNSCC needs to be elucidated in the future.

Genomic Biomarkers of Survival in Patients with Adenocarcinoma of the Uterine Cervix Receiving Chemoradiotherapy

This study investigated the prognostic effects of genomic biomarkers for predicting chemoradiotherapy (CRT)-based treatment outcomes in patients with adenocarcinoma (AC) of the uterine cervix. In all, 21 patients receiving definitive CRT were included. In accordance with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system, 5, 8, and 8 patients were classified as having stage IB3, II, and III disease, respectively. Pretreatment biomarkers were analyzed using tissue microarrays from biopsy specimens. Genomic alterations were examined by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The outcome endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and local relapse-free survival (LRFS). A Cox regression model was used to examine the prognostic effects of the biomarkers and clinical parameters. The presence of myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL1) gene amplification and a lower immunohistochemical (IHC) marker of tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α) H-score were two prognostic factors for inferior DFS. The four-year DFS was 28% and 68% for patients with or without MCL1 copy number gain, respectively (p = 0.028). In addition, MCL1 amplification predicted poor DMFS. A lower tumor mutation number (TMN) calculated from nonsynonymous mutations was associated with lower LRFS. For patients with adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix receiving definitive CRT, prognostic information can be supplemented by MCL1 amplification, the TMN, and the TNF-α H score.

Adverse outcome pathways for ionizing radiation and breast cancer involve direct and indirect DNA damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, genomic instability, and interaction with hormonal regulation of the breast

Knowledge about established breast carcinogens can support improved and modernized toxicological testing methods by identifying key mechanistic events. Ionizing radiation (IR) increases the risk of breast cancer, especially for women and for exposure at younger ages, and evidence overall supports a linear dose-response relationship. We used the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework to outline and evaluate the evidence linking ionizing radiation with breast cancer from molecular initiating events to the adverse outcome through intermediate key events, creating a qualitative AOP. We identified key events based on review articles, searched PubMed for recent literature on key events and IR, and identified additional papers using references. We manually curated publications and evaluated data quality. Ionizing radiation directly and indirectly causes DNA damage and increases production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). RONS lead to DNA damage and epigenetic changes leading to mutations and genomic instability (GI). Proliferation amplifies the effects of DNA damage and mutations leading to the AO of breast cancer. Separately, RONS and DNA damage also increase inflammation. Inflammation contributes to direct and indirect effects (effects in cells not directly reached by IR) via positive feedback to RONS and DNA damage, and separately increases proliferation and breast cancer through pro-carcinogenic effects on cells and tissue. For example, gene expression changes alter inflammatory mediators, resulting in improved survival and growth of cancer cells and a more hospitable tissue environment. All of these events overlap at multiple points with events characteristic of "background" induction of breast carcinogenesis, including hormone-responsive proliferation, oxidative activity, and DNA damage. These overlaps make the breast particularly susceptible to ionizing radiation and reinforce that these biological activities are important characteristics of carcinogens. Agents that increase these biological processes should be considered potential breast carcinogens, and predictive methods are needed to identify chemicals that increase these processes. Techniques are available to measure RONS, DNA damage and mutation, cell proliferation, and some inflammatory proteins or processes. Improved assays are needed to measure GI and chronic inflammation, as well as the interaction with hormonally driven development and proliferation. Several methods measure diverse epigenetic changes, but it is not clear which changes are relevant to breast cancer. In addition, most toxicological assays are not conducted in mammary tissue, and so it is a priority to evaluate if results from other tissues are generalizable to breast, or to conduct assays in breast tissue. Developing and applying these assays to identify exposures of concern will facilitate efforts to reduce subsequent breast cancer risk.

Adverse outcome pathways for ionizing radiation and breast cancer involve direct and indirect DNA damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, genomic instability, and interaction with hormonal regulation of the breast

Knowledge about established breast carcinogens can support improved and modernized toxicological testing methods by identifying key mechanistic events. Ionizing radiation (IR) increases the risk of breast cancer, especially for women and for exposure at younger ages, and evidence overall supports a linear dose-response relationship. We used the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework to outline and evaluate the evidence linking ionizing radiation with breast cancer from molecular initiating events to the adverse outcome through intermediate key events, creating a qualitative AOP. We identified key events based on review articles, searched PubMed for recent literature on key events and IR, and identified additional papers using references. We manually curated publications and evaluated data quality. Ionizing radiation directly and indirectly causes DNA damage and increases production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). RONS lead to DNA damage and epigenetic changes leading to mutations and genomic instability (GI). Proliferation amplifies the effects of DNA damage and mutations leading to the AO of breast cancer. Separately, RONS and DNA damage also increase inflammation. Inflammation contributes to direct and indirect effects (effects in cells not directly reached by IR) via positive feedback to RONS and DNA damage, and separately increases proliferation and breast cancer through pro-carcinogenic effects on cells and tissue. For example, gene expression changes alter inflammatory mediators, resulting in improved survival and growth of cancer cells and a more hospitable tissue environment. All of these events overlap at multiple points with events characteristic of "background" induction of breast carcinogenesis, including hormone-responsive proliferation, oxidative activity, and DNA damage. These overlaps make the breast particularly susceptible to ionizing radiation and reinforce that these biological activities are important characteristics of carcinogens. Agents that increase these biological processes should be considered potential breast carcinogens, and predictive methods are needed to identify chemicals that increase these processes. Techniques are available to measure RONS, DNA damage and mutation, cell proliferation, and some inflammatory proteins or processes. Improved assays are needed to measure GI and chronic inflammation, as well as the interaction with hormonally driven development and proliferation. Several methods measure diverse epigenetic changes, but it is not clear which changes are relevant to breast cancer. In addition, most toxicological assays are not conducted in mammary tissue, and so it is a priority to evaluate if results from other tissues are generalizable to breast, or to conduct assays in breast tissue. Developing and applying these assays to identify exposures of concern will facilitate efforts to reduce subsequent breast cancer risk.

Graphene quantum dots as anti-inflammatory therapy for colitis

While graphene and its derivatives have been suggested as a potential nanomedicine in several biomimetic models, their specific roles in immunological disorders still remain elusive. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) may be suitable for treating intestinal bowel diseases (IBDs) because of their low toxicity in vivo and ease of clearance. Here, GQDs are intraperitoneally injected to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic and acute colitis model, and its efficacy has been confirmed. In particular, GQDs effectively prevent tissue degeneration and ameliorate intestinal inflammation by inhibiting T_H1/T_H17 polarization. Moreover, GQDs switch the polarization of macrophages from classically activated M1 to M2 and enhance intestinal infiltration of regulatory T cells (T_regs). Therefore, GQDs effectively attenuate excessive inflammation by regulating immune cells, indicating that they can be used as promising alternative therapeutic agents for the treatment of autoimmune disorders, including IBDs.

Absence of Cytosolic 2-Cys Prx Subtypes I and II Exacerbates TNF-α-Induced Apoptosis via Different Routes

There are abundant peroxiredoxin (Prx) enzymes, but an increase of cellular H₂O₂ level always happens in apoptotic cells. Here, we show that cellular H₂O₂ switches different apoptosis pathways depending on which type of Prx enzyme is absent. TNF-α-induced H₂O₂ burst preferentially activates the DNA damage-dependent apoptosis pathway in the absence of PrxI. By contrast, the same H₂O₂ burst stimulates the RIPK1-dependent apoptosis pathway in the absence of PrxII by inducing the destruction of cIAP1 in caveolar membrane. Specifically, H₂O₂ induces the oxidation of Cys308 residue in the cIAP1-BIR3 domain, which induces the dimerization-dependent E3 ligase activation. Thus, the reduction in cIAP level by the absence of PrxII triggers cell-autonomous apoptosis in cancer cells and tumors. Such differential functions of PrxI and PrxII are mediated by interaction with H2AX and cIAP1, respectively. Collectively, this study reveals the distinct switch roles of 2-Cys Prx isoforms in apoptosis signaling.

Cyanidin Chloride Induces Apoptosis by Inhibiting NF-κB Signaling through Activation of Nrf2 in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in developed countries. Anthocyanins are a class of flavonoids, widely distributed in food, exhibiting important biological effects. Cyanidin chloride (CyCl) is the common type of anthocyanin with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potential. The present study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the chemotherapeutic effects of CyCl in colorectal cancer cells. We found that CyCl treatment induced apoptosis as well as a significant inhibition of cellular proliferation and colony formation in three colon cancer HCT116, HT29, and SW620 cells. In addition, CyCl suppressed nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling and induced the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-stimulated colon cancer cells. Nrf2 and NF-κB are two key transcription factors regulating antioxidative responses and cellular proliferation, respectively. In this study, knockdown of Nrf2 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection inhibited the effect of CyCl on NF-κB signaling and apoptosis, suggesting that there is functional crosstalk between Nrf2 and NF-κB. Our findings demonstrate the important role of Nrf2 in inducing apoptosis through the involvement of NF-κB signaling in colorectal cancer cells, suggesting that CyCl may be used as a potential therapeutic agent for CRC.

Importance of TNF-alpha and its alterations in the development of cancers

TNF-alpha is involved in many physiologic and pathologic cellular pathways, including cellular proliferation, differentiation, and death, regulation of immunologic reactions to different cells and molecules, local and vascular invasion of neoplasms, and destruction of tumor vasculature. It is obvious that because of integrated functions of TNF-alpha inside different physiologic systems, it cannot be used as a single-agent therapy for neoplasms; however, long-term investigation of its different cellular pathways has led to recognition of a variety of subsequent molecules with more specific interactions, and therefore, might be suitable as prognostic and therapeutic factors for neoplasms. Here, we will review different aspects of the TNF-alpha as a cytokine involved in both physiologic functions of cells and pathologic abnormalities, most importantly, cancers.

Evaluation of Proinflammatory, NF-kappaB Dependent Cytokines: IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in Tissue Specimens and Saliva of Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a life-threatening disease. It could be preceded by oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). It was confirmed that chronic inflammation can promote carcinogenesis. Cytokines play a crucial role in this process. The aim of the study was to evaluate interleukin-1alpha (IL-1α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in tissue specimens and saliva of patients with OSCC and OPMDs. Methods: Cytokines were evaluated in 60 tissue specimens of pathological lesions (OSCCs or OPMDs) and in 7 controls (normal oral mucosa, NOM) by immunohistochemistry and in saliva of 45 patients with OSCC or OPMDs and 9 controls (healthy volunteers) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly higher expression of IL-8 in OSCC specimens and TNF-α in OSCCs and OPMDs with dysplasia as compared to NOM. Moreover, expression of TNF-α was significantly higher in oral leukoplakia and oral lichen planus without dysplasia, whereas expression of IL-8 only in oral leukoplakia without dysplasia in comparison with NOM. Salivary concentrations of all evaluated cytokines were significantly higher in patients with OSCC than in controls. Moreover, levels of IL-8 were significantly higher in saliva of patients with OPMDs with dysplasia as compared to controls and in OSCC patients as compared to patients with dysplastic lesions. There was also significant increase in salivary concentrations of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in patients with OSCC as compared to patients with OPMDs without dysplasia. Conclusion: The study confirmed that proinflammatory, NF-kappaB dependent cytokines are involved in pathogenesis of OPMDs and OSCC. The most important biomarker of malignant transformation process within oral mucosa among all assessed cytokines seems to be IL-8. Further studies on a larger sample size are needed to corroborate these results.

Carbon content in airway macrophages and genomic instability in Chinese carbon black packers

Carbon black (CB) particulates as virtually pure elemental carbon can deposit deep in the lungs of humans. International Agency for Research on Cancer classified CB as a Group 2B carcinogen due to inconclusive human evidence. A molecular epidemiological study was conducted in an established cohort of CB packers (CBP) to assess associations between CB exposure and genomic instability in peripheral lymphocytes using cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay (CBMN). Carbon content in airway macrophages (CCAM) was quantified as a bio-effective dosimeter for chronic CB exposure. Dose-response observed in CBPs was compared to that seen in workers exposed to diesel exhaust. The association between CB exposure status and CBMN endpoints was identified in 85 CBPs and 106 non-CBPs from a 2012 visit and replicated in 127 CBPs and 105 non-CBPs from a 2018 visit. The proportion of cytoplasm area occupied by carbon particles in airway macrophages was over fivefold higher in current CBPs compared to non-CBPs and was associated with CBMN endpoints in a dose-dependent manner. CB aerosol and diesel exhaust shared the same potency of inducing genomic instability in workers. Circulatory pro-inflammatory factors especially TNF-α was found to mediate associations between CB exposure and CBMN endpoints. In vitro functional validation supported the role of TNF-α in inducing genomic instability. An estimated range of lower limits of benchmark dose of 4.19-7.28% of CCAM was recommended for risk assessment. Chronic CB exposure increased genomic instability in human circulation and this provided novel evidence supporting its reclassification as a human carcinogen.

Proinflammatory cytokine TNFα promotes HPV-associated oral carcinogenesis by increasing cancer stemness

High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are involved in the development of several human cancers, including oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. However, many studies have demonstrated that HPV alone is not sufficient for the oncogenic transformation of normal human epithelial cells, indicating that additional cofactors are required for the oncogenic conversion of HPV-infected cells. Inasmuch as chronic inflammation is also closely associated with carcinogenesis, we investigated the effect of chronic exposure to tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), the major proinflammatory cytokine, on oncogenesis in two immortalized oral keratinocyte cell lines, namely, HPV16-immortalized and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-immortalized cells. TNFα treatment led to the acquisition of malignant growth properties in HPV16-immortalized cells, such as (1) calcium resistance, (2) anchorage independence, and (3) increased cell proliferation in vivo. Moreover, TNFα increased the cancer stem cell-like population and stemness phenotype in HPV16-immortalized cells. However, such transforming effects were not observed in hTERT-immortalized cells, suggesting an HPV-specific role in TNFα-promoted oncogenesis. We also generated hTERT-immortalized cells that express HPV16 E6 and E7. Chronic TNFα exposure successfully induced the malignant growth and stemness phenotype in the E6-expressing cells but not in the control and E7-expressing cells. We further demonstrated that HPV16 E6 played a key role in TNFα-induced cancer stemness via suppression of the stemness-inhibiting microRNAs miR-203 and miR-200c. Overexpression of miR-203 and miR-200c suppressed cancer stemness in TNFα-treated HPV16-immortalized cells. Overall, our study suggests that chronic inflammation promotes cancer stemness in HPV-infected cells, thereby promoting HPV-associated oral carcinogenesis.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Accelerated Aging: A New Model for an Old Disease?

Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protects the lung by inhibiting neutrophil proteinases, but AAT has many other non-proteolytic functions that are anti-inflammatory, antiviral and homeostatic. Approximately 1 in 1600 to 1 in 5000 people have the homozygous Z mutation, which causes AAT misfolding, accumulation in (predominantly) liver cells and low circulating levels of AAT, leading to AAT deficiency (AATD). AATD is classically a disease of neutrophilic inflammation, with an aggressive and damaging innate immune response contributing to emphysema and other pathologies. AATD is one of the most common genetic disorders but considerably under-recognised. Most patients are diagnosed later in life, by which time they may have accumulated significant lung, liver and multisystem damage. Disease presentation is heterogeneous and not fully explained by deficiency levels alone or exposure to cigarette smoking. This suggests other factors influence AATD-associated pathological processes. Aging itself is associated with organ dysfunction, including emphysema and airflow obstruction, inflammation, altered immune cell responses (termed immunosenescence) and a loss of proteostasis. Many of these processes are present in AATD but at an earlier age and more advanced stage compared with chronological aging alone. Augmentation therapy does not completely abrogate the manifold disease processes present in AATD. New approaches are needed. There is emerging evidence that both age- and AATD-related disease processes are amenable to correction by targeting proteostasis, autophagy, immunosenescence and epigenetic factors. This review explores the impact of the aging process on AATD presentation and discusses novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate low levels of AAT or misfolded AAT in an aging host.

Setting the Stage for Islet Autoimmunity in Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity-Associated Chronic Systemic Inflammation and Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress

Islet autoimmunity has been identified as a component of both type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes, but the pathway through which islet autoimmunity develops in T1D and T2D may be different. Acknowledging the presence of islet autoimmunity in the pathophysiology of T2D, a historically nonautoimmune metabolic disease, would pave the way for important changes in classifications of and therapeutic options for T2D. In order to fully appreciate the importance of islet autoimmunity in T2D, the underlying mechanisms for immune system activation need to be explored. In this review, we focus on the potential origin of immune system activation (innate and adaptive) leading to the development of islet autoimmunity in T2D.

Anti-neuroinflammation ameliorates systemic inflammation-induced mitochondrial DNA impairment in the nucleus of the solitary tract and cardiovascular reflex dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Decreased heart rate variability (HRV) leads to cardiovascular diseases and increased mortality in clinical studies. However, the underlying mechanisms are still inconclusive. Systemic inflammation-induced neuroinflammation is known to impair the autonomic center of cardiovascular regulation. The dynamic stability of blood pressure and heart rate (HR) is regulated by modulation of the reciprocal responses of sympathetic and parasympathetic tone by the baroreflex, which is controlled by the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS).

METHODS

Systemic inflammation was induced by E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1.2 mg/kg/day, 7 days) peritoneal infusion via an osmotic minipump in normotensive Sprague-Dawley rats. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and HR were measured by femoral artery cannulation and recorded on a polygraph under anesthesia. The low-frequency (LF; 0.25-0.8 Hz) and high-frequency (HF; 0.8-2.4 Hz) components of SBP were adopted as the indices for sympathetic vasomotor tone and parasympathetic vasomotor tone, while the baroreflex effectiveness index (BEI) was adopted from the analysis of SBP and pulse interval (PI). The plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) oxidative damage were analyzed by ELISA. Protein expression was evaluated by Western blot. The distribution of oxidative mtDNA was probed by immunofluorescence. Pharmacological agents were delivered via infusion into the cisterna magna with an osmotic minipump.

RESULTS

The suppression of baroreflex sensitivity was concurrent with increased SBP and decreased HR. Neuroinflammatory factors, including TNF-α, CD11b, and Iba-1, were detected in the NTS of the LPS group. Moreover, indices of mtDNA damage, including 8-OHdG and γ-H2AX, were significantly increased in neuronal mitochondria. Pentoxifylline or minocycline intracisternal (IC) infusion effectively prevented mtDNA damage, suggesting that cytokine and microglial activation contributed to mtDNA damage. Synchronically, baroreflex sensitivity was effectively protected, and the elevated blood pressure was significantly relieved. In addition, the mtDNA repair mechanism was significantly enhanced by pentoxifylline or minocycline.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that neuronal mtDNA damage in the NTS induced by neuroinflammation could be the core factor in deteriorating baroreflex desensitization and subsequent cardiovascular dysfunction. Therefore, the enhancement of base excision repair (BER) signaling in mitochondria could be a potential therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular reflex dysregulation.

Micronuclei and Their Association with Infertility, Pregnancy Complications, Developmental Defects, Anaemias, Inflammation, Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease, Obesity, Cardiovascular Disease, Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cancer

Micronuclei (MN) are a strong cytogenetic indicator of a catastrophic change in the genetic structure and stability of a cell because they originate from either chromosome breaks or whole chromosomes that have been lost from the main nucleus during cell division. The resulting genetic abnormalities can to lead to cellular malfunction, altered gene expression and impaired regenerative capacity. Furthermore, MN are increased as a consequence of genetic defects in DNA repair, deficiency in micronutrients required for DNA replication and repair and exposure to genotoxic chemicals and ultraviolet or ionising radiation. For all of these reasons, the measurement of MN has become one of the best-established methods to measure DNA damage in humans at the cytogenetic level. This chapter is a narrative review of the current evidence for the association of increased MN frequency with developmental and degenerative diseases. In addition, important knowledge gaps are identified, and recommendations for future studies required to consolidate the evidence are provided. The great majority of published studies show a significant association of increased MN in lymphocytes and/or buccal cells with infertility, pregnancy complications, developmental defects, anaemias, inflammation, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. However, the strongest evidence is from prospective studies showing that MN frequency in lymphocytes predicts cancer risk and cardiovascular disease mortality.

Possible Association of Smokeless Tobacco Dependent Impairment in the Erythrocytes and Platelets Membranes of Human Male Volunteers: An Observation

Background:

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) acts as a modifier of erythrocyte and platelet membranes by disrupting antioxidant system with the concomitant increase in free radical production and induction of apoptosis.

Methods:

The SLT users was that individuals used gutkha and khaini products (Khaleja/mahak chaini brand respectively) habitually, at least >20 times per week consists of 50-60 g during the last 2-4 years.

Results:

The gutkha and khaini users found to be significantly increased levels of iNOS (Inducible nitric oxide synthase) enzyme in plasma, erythrocytes, and platelet membranes when compared to normal controls. The gutkha and khaini users exhibited that the significant increase in the levels of gene expression of apoptotic proteins (Bcl₂-B cell lymphoma gene 2, Bax, caspases 8, caspase 10, and caspase 12), IL-6 (Interleukin-6), and decreased levels of TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-alpha) and decreased expression of caspase 12 of khaini users were observed from blood samples. The significant increase in the concentrations of peroxynitrites (ONOO-), nitric oxide (NO) (Nitrates and nitrites), malondialdehyde (MDA), cholesterol, and phospholipids were reported in the smokeless tobacco users of erythrocytes and platelets. The experimental subjects showed that the increased osmotic fragility and decreased membrane fluidity of erythrocytes and platelets in comparison with non-tobacco users. The normal subjects had been exposed that the proper functioning of antioxidant enzymes and decreased enzyme activities of antioxidants were reported by SLT users.

Conclusion:

The smokeless tobacco products are exerted chronic damage to membranes of erythrocytes and platelets and elevation of apoptosis in the prolonged periods of human male volunteers.

Employment of enhanced permeability and retention effect (EPR): Nanoparticle-based precision tools for targeting of therapeutic and diagnostic agent in cancer

In tumorous tissues, the absence of vasculature supportive tissues intimates the formation of leaky vessels and pores (100 nm to 2 μm in diameter) and the poor lymphatic system offers great opportunity to treat cancer and the phenomenon is known as Enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. The trends in treating cancer by making use of EPR effect is increasing day by day and generate multitudes of possibility to design novel anticancer therapeutics. This review aimed to present various factors affecting the EPR effect along with important things to know about EPR effect such as tumor perfusion, lymphatic function, interstitial penetration, vascular permeability, nanoparticle retention etc. This manuscript expounds the current advances and cross-talks the developments made in the of EPR effect-based therapeutics in cancer therapy along with a transactional view of its current clinical and industrial aspects.

Role of Oral Microbiota in Cancer Development

Nowadays cancer is the second main cause of death in the world. The most known bacterial carcinogen is Helicobacter pylori. Pathogens that can have an impact on cancer development in the gastrointestinal tract are also found in the oral cavity. Some specific species have been identified that correlate strongly with oral cancer, such as Streptococcus sp., Peptostreptococcus sp., Prevotella sp., Fusobacterium sp., Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Capnocytophaga gingivalis. Many works have also shown that the oral periopathogens Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis play an important role in the development of colorectal and pancreatic cancer. Three mechanisms of action have been suggested in regard to the role of oral microbiota in the pathogenesis of cancer. The first is bacterial stimulation of chronic inflammation. Inflammatory mediators produced in this process cause or facilitate cell proliferation, mutagenesis, oncogene activation, and angiogenesis. The second mechanism attributed to bacteria that may influence the pathogenesis of cancers by affecting cell proliferation is the activation of NF-κB and inhibition of cellular apoptosis. In the third mechanism, bacteria produce some substances that act in a carcinogenic manner. This review presents potentially oncogenic oral bacteria and possible mechanisms of their action on the carcinogenesis of human cells.

Potential biomarkers for the early diagnosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma - transcriptomic analysis of four clinical stages

BACKGROUNDS

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in economically developed countries. Molecular studies and, in particular, gene expression have contributed to advances in the diagnosis and treatment of many cancers. Genes can be molecular and therapeutic markers, but because of the large molecular diversity in colorectal cancer the knowledge is not yet fully established. Probably one of the most crucial processes during early cancer development is inflammation. The inflammatory response in the tumor is an important indicator of molecular etiology and later of cancer progression.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work is to identify potential biomarkers for early stage of colorectal adenocarcinoma in patients' bowel tissues using transcriptomic analysis.

METHODS

Expression of the inflammatory response genes of colorectal cancer at all clinical stages (I-IV) and control of the bowel were evaluated by oligonucleotide microarrays.

RESULTS

Based on statistical analysis many differentially expressed genes were selected. LCK (LCK Proto-Oncogene, Src Family Tyrosine Kinase), GNLY (granulysin), SLC6A6 (Solute-Carrier Family 6 Member 6) and LAMP2 (Lysosomal Associated Membrane Protein 2) were specific for the early stage of the disease. These genes had the properties of the good biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of LCK, GNLY, SLC6A6 and LAMP2 genes could be valuable potential diagnostic biomarkers of the early stage of colorectal adenocarcinoma.

Prevalence of human anelloviruses in Romanian healthy subjects and patients with common pathologies

Background

Human anelloviruses (TTV, TTMDV and TTMV) are at high prevalence all across the globe, having also a controversial disease-inducing potential. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anelloviral DNA in the Romanian human population and to investigate the association of infections with common pathologies in Romanian population.

Methods

After informed consent, blood samples were collected from 2000 subjects represented by: clinically healthy individuals (n = 701) and a group of patients with pathologies linked to low grade inflammation or alteration of carbohydrate metabolism (n = 1299). All samples were analysed for the presence of TTV, TTMDV and TTMV DNA by hemi-nested PCR.

Results

The prevalence of TTV, TTMDV and TTMV in the studied population was 68.2, 54.4%, respectively 40.1%, lower than the recent reports from other geographic regions. The three viral species were significantly more frequent in the group of patients compared to the healthy subjects and were associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The presence of anelloviral DNA was also associated with medical procedures (e.g. haemodialysis/transfusions, surgical procedures) and previous hepatitis A virus infection. Lifestyle choices related to alcohol consumption, smoking, physical activity and living environment were not associated with differences in distribution of the three viruses.

Conclusion

Further evidence is needed to establish a correlation between infection with human anelloviruses and a pathology or group of pathologies.

Identification of Synergistic Interaction Between Cannabis-Derived Compounds for Cytotoxic Activity in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines and Colon Polyps That Induces Apoptosis-Related Cell Death and Distinct Gene Expression

Introduction: Colorectal cancer remains the third most common cancer diagnosis and fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Purified cannabinoids have been reported to prevent proliferation, metastasis, and induce apoptosis in a variety of cancer cell types. However, the active compounds from Cannabis sativa flowers and their interactions remain elusive.

Research Aim: This study was aimed to specify the cytotoxic effect of C. sativa-derived extracts on colon cancer cells and adenomatous polyps by identification of active compound(s) and characterization of their interaction.

Materials and Methods: Ethanol extracts of C. sativa were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry and their cytotoxic activity was determined using alamarBlue-based assay (Resazurin) and tetrazolium dye-based assay (XTT) on cancer and normal colon cell lines and on dysplastic adenomatous polyp cells. Annexin V Assay and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) were used to determine apoptosis and cell cycle, and RNA sequencing was used to determine gene expression.

Results: The unheated cannabis extracts (C2F), fraction 7 (F7), and fraction 3 (F3) had cytotoxic activity on colon cancer cells, but reduced activity on normal colon cell lines. Moreover, synergistic interaction was found between F7 and F3 and the latter contains mainly cannabigerolic acid. The F7 and F7+F3 cytotoxic activity involved cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in S or G0/G1 phases, respectively. RNA profiling identified 2283 differentially expressed genes in F7+F3 treatment, among them genes related to the Wnt signaling pathway and apoptosis-related genes. Moreover, F7, F3, and F7+F3 treatments induced cell death of polyp cells.

Conclusions:C. sativa compounds interact synergistically for cytotoxic activity against colon cancer cells and induce cell cycle arrest, apoptotic cell death, and distinct gene expression. F3, F7, and F7+F3 are also active on adenomatous polyps, suggesting possible future therapeutic value.

Tumor Necrosis Factor α and Regulatory T Cells in Oncoimmunology

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF) is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that has deleterious effect in some autoimmune diseases, which led to the use of anti-TNF drugs in some of these diseases. However, some rare patients treated with these drugs paradoxically develop an aggravation of their disease or new onset autoimmunity, revealing an immunosuppressive facet of TNF. A possible mechanism of this observation is the direct and positive effect of TNF on regulatory T cells (Tregs) through its binding to the TNF receptor type 2 (TNFR2). Indeed, TNF is able to increase expansion, stability, and possibly function of Tregs via TNFR2. In this review, we discuss the role of TNF in graft-versus-host disease as an example of the ambivalence of this cytokine in the pathophysiology of an immunopathology, highlighting the therapeutic potential of triggering TNFR2 to boost Treg expansion. We also describe new targets in immunotherapy of cancer, emphasizing on the putative suppressive effect of TNF in antitumor immunity and of the interest of blocking TNFR2 to regulate the Treg compartment.

The TNF-α-induced expression of miR-130b protects cervical cancer cells from the cytotoxicity of TNF-α

Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a multifunctional cytokine and has the capacity both to promote cell growth and to kill tumour cells by inducing cell apoptosis. However, many tumour cells develop resistance to the toxic effects of TNF-α. Thus, understanding the mechanism underlying the resistance of tumours to TNF-α toxicity and finding ways to overcome this resistance are urgently needed. In this study, we discovered that two cervical cancer cell lines, Hela and Siha, showed null responses to TNF-α cytotoxicity. However, in these cell lines, TNF-α stimulation promoted the expression of miR-130b and downregulated the expression of PTEN gene, which encodes a dual-specificity phosphatase that acts as a tumour suppressor. Blockade of miR-130b function or overexpression of PTEN gene sensitized cells to TNF-α cytotoxicity. Regression analyses revealed that there were reverse relationships between the cellular levels of miR-130b and PTEN mRNA in cervical cancer cells. Gain- and loss-of-function assays demonstrated that there were causal relationships between the increase in miR-130b levels and the reduction in PTEN mRNA or PTEN protein levels. In silico analysis revealed that there were two miR-130b target sites within the 3'UTR of PTEN mRNA and experimental evidences demonstrated that miR-130b repressed the expression of PTEN gene by binding directly to the 3'UTR of PTEN mRNA. These data suggest miR-130b expression as a target to be inhibited to make tumour cells more sensitive to the toxic impact of TNF-α.

Response to TNF-α Is Increasing Along with the Progression in Barrett's Esophagus

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Barrett's esophagus, a metaplasia resulting from a long-standing reflux disease, and its progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) are characterized by activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, induced by cytokines.

METHODS

An in vitro cell culture system representing the sequence of squamous epithelium (EPC1 and EPC2), Barrett's metaplasia (CP-A), dysplasia (CP-B) to EAC (OE33 and OE19) was used to investigate TNF-α-mediated induction of interleukin-8 (IL-8).

RESULTS

IL-6 and IL-8 expressions are increasing with the progression of Barrett's esophagus, with the highest expression of both cytokines in the dysplastic cell line CP-B. IL-8 expression in EAC cells was approx. 4.4-fold (OE33) and eightfold (OE19) higher in EAC cells than in squamous epithelium cells (EPC1 and EPC2). The pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α increased IL-8 expression in a time-, concentration-, and stage-specific manner. Furthermore, TNF-α changed the EMT marker profile in OE33 cells by decreasing the epithelial marker E-cadherin and increasing the mesenchymal marker vimentin. The anti-inflammatory compound curcumin was able to repress proliferation and to activate apoptosis in both EAC cell lines.

CONCLUSION

The increased basal expression levels of IL-8 with the progression of Barrett's esophagus constrain NFκB activation and its contribution in the manifestation of Barrett's esophagus. An anti-inflammatory compound, such as curcumin, could create an anti-inflammatory microenvironment and thus potentially support an increase chemosensitivity in EAC cells.