1
|
Qattan A, Al-Tweigeri T, Suleman K, Alkhayal W, Tulbah A. Advanced Insights into Competitive Endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) Regulated Pathogenic Mechanisms in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (mTNBC). Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:3057. [PMID: 39272915 PMCID: PMC11394539 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16173057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer is aggressive and challenging to treat because of a lack of targets and heterogeneity among tumors. A paramount factor in the mortality from breast cancer is metastasis, which is driven by genetic and phenotypic alterations that drive epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness, survival, migration and invasion. Many genetic and epigenetic mechanisms have been identified in triple-negative breast cancer that drive these metastatic phenotypes; however, this knowledge has not yet led to the development of effective drugs for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). One that may not have received enough attention in the literature is post-translational regulation of broad sets of cancer-related genes through inhibitory microRNAs and the complex competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks they are influenced by. This field of study and the resulting knowledge regarding alterations in these networks is coming of age, enabling translation into clinical benefit for patients. Herein, we review metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC), the role of ceRNA network regulation in metastasis (and therefore clinical outcomes), potential approaches for therapeutic exploitation of these alterations, knowledge gaps and future directions in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amal Qattan
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Taher Al-Tweigeri
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kausar Suleman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa Alkhayal
- Department of Surgery, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Tulbah
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Valdivia-Silva J, Chinney-Herrera A. Chemokine receptors and their ligands in breast cancer: The key roles in progression and metastasis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 388:124-161. [PMID: 39260935 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Chemokines and their receptors are a family of chemotactic cytokines with important functions in the immune response in both health and disease. Their known physiological roles such as the regulation of leukocyte trafficking and the development of immune organs generated great interest when it was found that they were also related to the control of early and late inflammatory stages in the tumor microenvironment. In fact, in breast cancer, an imbalance in the synthesis of chemokines and/or in the expression of their receptors was attributed to be involved in the regulation of disease progression, including invasion and metastasis. Research in this area is progressing rapidly and the development of new agents based on chemokine and chemokine receptor antagonists are emerging as attractive alternative strategies. This chapter provides a snapshot of the different functions reported for chemokines and their receptors with respect to the potential to regulate breast cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio Valdivia-Silva
- Centro de Investigación en Bioingenieria (BIO), Universidad de Ingenieria y Tecnologia-UTEC, Barranco, Lima, Peru.
| | - Alberto Chinney-Herrera
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico-UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacan, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Danielpour D. Advances and Challenges in Targeting TGF-β Isoforms for Therapeutic Intervention of Cancer: A Mechanism-Based Perspective. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:533. [PMID: 38675493 PMCID: PMC11054419 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β family is a group of 25 kDa secretory cytokines, in mammals consisting of three dimeric isoforms (TGF-βs 1, 2, and 3), each encoded on a separate gene with unique regulatory elements. Each isoform plays unique, diverse, and pivotal roles in cell growth, survival, immune response, and differentiation. However, many researchers in the TGF-β field often mistakenly assume a uniform functionality among all three isoforms. Although TGF-βs are essential for normal development and many cellular and physiological processes, their dysregulated expression contributes significantly to various diseases. Notably, they drive conditions like fibrosis and tumor metastasis/progression. To counter these pathologies, extensive efforts have been directed towards targeting TGF-βs, resulting in the development of a range of TGF-β inhibitors. Despite some clinical success, these agents have yet to reach their full potential in the treatment of cancers. A significant challenge rests in effectively targeting TGF-βs' pathological functions while preserving their physiological roles. Many existing approaches collectively target all three isoforms, failing to target just the specific deregulated ones. Additionally, most strategies tackle the entire TGF-β signaling pathway instead of focusing on disease-specific components or preferentially targeting tumors. This review gives a unique historical overview of the TGF-β field often missed in other reviews and provides a current landscape of TGF-β research, emphasizing isoform-specific functions and disease implications. The review then delves into ongoing therapeutic strategies in cancer, stressing the need for more tools that target specific isoforms and disease-related pathway components, advocating mechanism-based and refined approaches to enhance the effectiveness of TGF-β-targeted cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Danielpour
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; ; Tel.: +1-216-368-5670; Fax: +1-216-368-8919
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Institute of Urology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang E, Sun Q, Zhang C, Ma H, Zhang J, Ding Y, Wang G, Jin C, Jin C, Fu Y, Yan C, Zhu M, Wang C, Dai J, Jin G, Hu Z, Shen H, Ma H. Comprehensive functional interrogation of susceptibility loci in GWASs identified KIAA0391 as a novel oncogenic driver via regulating pyroptosis in NSCLC. Cancer Lett 2024; 585:216646. [PMID: 38262497 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 51 non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) risk loci have been identified by genome-wide association studies (GWASs). We conducted a high throughput RNA-interference (RNAi) screening to identify the candidate causal genes in NSCLC risk loci. KIAA0391 at 14q13.1 had the highest score and could promote proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC in vitro and in vivo. We next prioritized rs3783313 as a causal variant at 14q13.1, by integrating a large-scale population study consisting of 27,120 lung cancer cases and 27,355 controls, functional annotation, and expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis. Then we found that rs3783313 could facilitate a promoter-enhancer interaction to upregulate KIAA0391 expression by affecting the affinity of transcription factor NFYA. Mechanistically, KIAA0391 knockdown dramatically influenced pyroptosis-related pathways and increased the expression of CASP1. And KIAA0391 transcriptionally repressed CASP1 by binding to SMAD2 and induced an anti-pyroptosis phenotype, promoting tumorigenesis of NSCLC, which provides new insights and potential target for NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erbao Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chang Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Second People's Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Huimin Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yue Ding
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chen Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chenying Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yating Fu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Caiwang Yan
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Hongbing Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Research Unit of Prospective Cohort of Cardiovascular Diseases and Cancers, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100142, China.
| | - Hongxia Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Research Unit of Prospective Cohort of Cardiovascular Diseases and Cancers, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100142, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen Z, Wang Y, Lu X, Chen H, Kong Y, Rong L, Wang G. The immune regulation and therapeutic potential of the SMAD gene family in breast cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6769. [PMID: 38514720 PMCID: PMC10958012 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57189-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a serious threat to human health. The transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway is an important pathway involved in the occurrence and development of cancer. The SMAD family genes are responsible for the TGF-β signaling pathway. However, the mechanism by which genes of the SMAD family are involved in breast cancer is still unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the biological roles of the SMAD family genes in breast cancer. We downloaded the gene expression data, gene mutation data, and clinical pathological data of breast cancer patients from the UCSC Xena database. We used the Wilcox test to estimate the expression of genes of the SMAD family in cancers. And the biological functions of SMAD family genes using the DAVID website. The Pearson correlation method was used to explore the immune cell infiltration and drug response of SMAD family genes. We conducted in biological experiments vitro and vivo. In this study, we integrated the multi-omics data from TCGA breast cancer patients for analysis. The expression of genes of SMAD family was significantly dysregulated in patients with breast cancer. Except for SMAD6, the expression of other SMAD family genes was positively correlated. We also found that genes of the SMAD family were significantly enriched in the TGF-β signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, cell cycle, and cancer-related pathways. In addition, SMAD3, SMAD6, and SMAD7 were lowly expressed in stage II breast cancer, while SMAD4 and SMAD2 were lowly expressed in stage III cancer. Furthermore, the expression of genes of the SMAD family was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration scores. Constructing a xenograft tumor mouse model, we found that SMAD3 knockdown significantly inhibited tumorigenesis. Finally, we analyzed the association between these genes and the IC50 value of drugs. Interestingly, patients with high expression of SMAD3 exhibited significant resistance to dasatinib and staurosporine, while high sensitivity to tamoxifen and auranofin. In addition, SMAD3 knockdown promoted the apoptosis of BT-549 cells and decreased cell activity, and BAY-1161909 and XK-469 increased drug efficacy. In conclusion, genes of the SMAD family play a crucial role in the development of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaodi Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yiran Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Liwei Rong
- Department of Medical Records, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road No. 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Guonian Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
- Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gu M, Ren B, Fang Y, Ren J, Liu X, Wang X, Zhou F, Xiao R, Luo X, You L, Zhao Y. Epigenetic regulation in cancer. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e495. [PMID: 38374872 PMCID: PMC10876210 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are defined as heritable changes in gene activity that do not involve changes in the underlying DNA sequence. The oncogenic process is driven by the accumulation of alterations that impact genome's structure and function. Genetic mutations, which directly disrupt the DNA sequence, are complemented by epigenetic modifications that modulate gene expression, thereby facilitating the acquisition of malignant characteristics. Principals among these epigenetic changes are shifts in DNA methylation and histone mark patterns, which promote tumor development and metastasis. Notably, the reversible nature of epigenetic alterations, as opposed to the permanence of genetic changes, positions the epigenetic machinery as a prime target in the discovery of novel therapeutics. Our review delves into the complexities of epigenetic regulation, exploring its profound effects on tumor initiation, metastatic behavior, metabolic pathways, and the tumor microenvironment. We place a particular emphasis on the dysregulation at each level of epigenetic modulation, including but not limited to, the aberrations in enzymes responsible for DNA methylation and histone modification, subunit loss or fusions in chromatin remodeling complexes, and the disturbances in higher-order chromatin structure. Finally, we also evaluate therapeutic approaches that leverage the growing understanding of chromatin dysregulation, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minzhi Gu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Feihan Zhou
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Ruiling Xiao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiyuan Luo
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Akhurst RJ. From shape-shifting embryonic cells to oncology: The fascinating history of epithelial mesenchymal transition. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 96:100-114. [PMID: 37852342 PMCID: PMC10883734 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or transformation (EMT) is a cell shape-changing process that is utilized repeatedly throughout embryogenesis and is critical to the attainment of a precise body plan. In the adult, EMT is observed under both normal and pathological conditions, such as during normal wounding healing, during development of certain fibrotic states and vascular anomalies, as well as in some cancers when malignant cells progress to become more aggressive, invasive, and metastatic. Epithelia derived from any of the three embryonic germ layers can undergo EMT, including those derived from mesoderm, such as endothelial cells (sometimes termed Endo-MT) and those derived from endoderm such as fetal liver stroma. At the cellular level, EMT is defined as the transformation of epithelial cells towards a mesenchymal phenotype and is marked by attenuation of expression of epithelial markers and de novo expression of mesenchymal markers. This process is induced by extracellular factors and can be reversible, resulting in mesenchymal-to-epithelial transformation (MET). It is now clear that a cell can simultaneously express properties of both epithelia and mesenchyme, and that such transitional cell-types drive tumor cell heterogeneity, an important aspect of cancer progression, development of a stem-like cell state, and drug resistance. Here we review some of the earliest studies demonstrating the existence of EMT during embryogenesis and discuss the discovery of the extracellular factors and intracellular signaling pathways that contribute to this process, with components of the TGFβ signaling superfamily playing a prominent role. We mention early controversies surrounding in vivo EMT during embryonic development and in adult diseased states, and the maturation of the field to a stage wherein targeting EMT to control disease states is an aspirational goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary J Akhurst
- Department of Anatomy and UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Allam S, Elsakka EGE, Ismail A, Doghish AS, Yehia AM, Elkady MA, Mokhlis HA, Sayed SM, Abd Elaziz AI, Hashish AA, Amin MM, El Shahat RM, Mohammed OA. Androgen receptor blockade by flutamide down-regulates renal fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis pathways in male rats. Life Sci 2023; 323:121697. [PMID: 37061126 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
AIM this study aims to explore the effect of androgen receptor (AR) blockade by flutamide on some renal pathologic changes such as inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis in male rats. MAIN METHODS Firstly, we investigated the potential effect of AR blockade on renal inflammatory intermediates including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, NF-Қβ proteins, and the renal gene expression of NF-Қβ. Besides inflammation, we also assessed the apoptosis pathways including the caspases 3 & 9, mTOR, pAKT proteins, and BAX gene expression. Besides inflammation and apoptosis pathways, we also investigated the effect of androgen blockade on renal fibrosis intermediates including vimentin, TGFβ-1, α-SMA, MMP-9, collagen type-III, collagen type-IV, and the renal expression of the col1A1 gene. Besides previous pathological pathways, we assessed the expression of chloride channel protein-5 (ClC-5), as an important regulator of many renal pathological changes. Finally, we assessed the impact of previous pathological changes on renal function at biochemical and pathological levels. KEY FINDINGS We found that AR blockade by flutamide was associated with the down-regulation of renal inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis markers. It was associated with expression down-regulation of IL-1β & IL-6, TNF-α, NF-Қβ, caspases 3 & 9, mTOR, MMP-9, collagens, TGFβ-1, and α-SMA. Away from down-regulation, we also found that AR blockade has upregulated ClC-5 and pAKT proteins. SIGNIFICANCE AR is a major player in androgens-induced nephrotoxicity. AR blockade downregulates renal fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis pathways. It may be helpful as a strategy for alleviation of renal side effects associated with some drugs. However; this needs further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shady Allam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Menoufia University, 32511 Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Elsayed G E Elsakka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt.
| | - Amr Mohamed Yehia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Elkady
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hamada Ahmed Mokhlis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara M Sayed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy (girls) Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Adel I Abd Elaziz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdullah A Hashish
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia; Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Mona M Amin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rehab M El Shahat
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Bisha University, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kavousi N, Tonge DP, Mourtada-Maarabouni M. New insights into the functional role of protein phosphatase 4 regulatory subunit PP4R3A/SMEK1 in the regulation of leukemic cell fate. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 233:123467. [PMID: 36731689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The serine/threonine protein phosphatase 4 holoenzyme consists of a PP4 catalytic subunit (PP4c), which interacts with four different regulatory subunits. Previous studies have shown that PP4c acts as a tumour suppressor. Emerging evidence suggests that the protein phosphatase 4 regulatory subunits might regulate cell fate independently of PP4c. To this end, we investigated the role of PP4R3A (SMEK1) in Jurkat and CEM-C7 leukemic cell lines. SMEK1 overexpression decreased cell growth, increased spontaneous apoptosis, and reduced the colony forming ability of leukemic cells. Conversely, siRNA-mediated silencing of SMEK1 led to increased short and long-term survival in these cells. Phospho-protein arrays revealed that increased expression of SMEK1 affected the phosphorylation of key proteins involved in MAPK3, AKT, JAK/STAT, NFκB and TGFβ signalling pathways. These proteins include transcription factors such as NFκB, STAT3, c-JUN, SMAD1, and SMAD5, suggesting a role for SMEK1 in the regulation of gene expression. RNA sequencing confirmed the role of SMEK1 in the regulation of gene expression. RNA sequencing also confirmed the tumour suppressor role of SMEK1. Taken together, this study shows that SMEK1 regulates leukemic T cell survival, indicating that SMEK1 dysfunction may be important in the development and progression of leukemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadieh Kavousi
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Daniel P Tonge
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Mirna Mourtada-Maarabouni
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 5BG, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fujiwara-Tani R, Mori S, Ogata R, Sasaki R, Ikemoto A, Kishi S, Kondoh M, Kuniyasu H. Claudin-4: A New Molecular Target for Epithelial Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5494. [PMID: 36982569 PMCID: PMC10051602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Claudin-4 (CLDN4) is a key component of tight junctions (TJs) in epithelial cells. CLDN4 is overexpressed in many epithelial malignancies and correlates with cancer progression. Changes in CLDN4 expression have been associated with epigenetic factors (such as hypomethylation of promoter DNA), inflammation associated with infection and cytokines, and growth factor signaling. CLDN4 helps to maintain the tumor microenvironment by forming TJs and acts as a barrier to the entry of anticancer drugs into tumors. Decreased expression of CLDN4 is a potential marker of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and decreased epithelial differentiation due to reduced CLDN4 activity is involved in EMT induction. Non-TJ CLDN4 also activates integrin beta 1 and YAP to promote proliferation, EMT, and stemness. These roles in cancer have led to investigations of molecular therapies targeting CLDN4 using anti-CLDN4 extracellular domain antibodies, gene knockdown, clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), and C-terminus domain of CPE (C-CPE), which have demonstrated the experimental efficacy of this approach. CLDN4 is strongly involved in promoting malignant phenotypes in many epithelial cancers and is regarded as a promising molecular therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rina Fujiwara-Tani
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Shiori Mori
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Ruiko Ogata
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Rika Sasaki
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Ayaka Ikemoto
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Shingo Kishi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| | - Masuo Kondoh
- Drug Innovation Center, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 6-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan;
| | - Hiroki Kuniyasu
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8521, Japan; (S.M.); (R.O.); (R.S.); (A.I.); (S.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Christodoulou P, Boutsikos P, Neophytou CM, Kyriakou TC, Christodoulou MI, Papageorgis P, Stephanou A, Patrikios I. Amygdalin as a chemoprotective agent in co-treatment with cisplatin. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1013692. [PMID: 36204233 PMCID: PMC9531591 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1013692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amygdalin is a naturally occurring glycoside used in traditional Chinese medicine and is known to have anti-cancer properties. Even though the anti-cancer properties of amygdalin are well known, its effect on normal cells has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of the present study was to investigate a possible chemo-protective role of amygdalin against the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy for normal human cells. Specifically, it was tested in combination with a strong chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin. Human non-tumorigenic MCF12F epithelial cell line, human fibroblasts cells, human breast cancer MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with cisplatin in a dose- and time-depended manner in the absence or presence of amygdalin. When MCF12F cells and fibroblasts underwent pre-treatment with amygdalin followed by cisplatin treatment (24 h amygdalin + 24 h cisplatin), the cell viability was increased (22%, p < 0.001) as indicated using MTT assay. As attested by flow cytometry, combination treatment was associated with decreased the percentage of late apoptotic cells compared with monotherapy (fold-change of decrease = 1.6 and 4.5 for 15 and 20 μΜ, respectively). Also, the proteins expression of PUMA, p53, phospho-p53 and Bax decreased, when a combination treatment was used vs. cisplatin alone, while the proapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL exhibited an increased tendency in the presence of amygdalin. Moreover, the levels of pro-apoptotic genes PUMA, p53, and BAX mRNA were significantly downregulated (∼83%, ∼66%, and ∼44%, respectively) vs. cisplatin alone, while the mRNA levels of anti-apoptotic genes BCl-2 and Bcl-XL were upregulated (∼44.5% and ∼51%, respectively), vs. cisplatin alone after 24 h of combination treatment. The study on the Combination index (CI) assay indicated that amygdalin could be possibly considered as an antagonist to cisplatin (2.2 and 2.3) for MCF12F and fibroblast cells, respectively. In contrast, for the breast cancer MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, amygdalin and cisplatin indicated a synergistic effect (0.8 and 0.65), respectively. Our present findings suggest that amygdalin has chemo-modulatory effect when used in co-treatment with cisplatin and is able to protect normal breast cells as well as the fibroblasts during chemotherapy treatment, indicating a strong selective chemoprotective ability and may contribute to a better quality of life for cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panayiota Christodoulou
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- *Correspondence: Panayiota Christodoulou,
| | | | - Christiana M. Neophytou
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Theodora-Christina Kyriakou
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maria-Ioanna Christodoulou
- Tumor Immunology and Biomarkers Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- Tumor Microenvironment, Metastasis and Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Signaling in Cancer-Induced Cachexia: From Molecular Pathways to the Clinics. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172671. [PMID: 36078078 PMCID: PMC9454487 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cachexia is a metabolic syndrome consisting of massive loss of muscle mass and function that has a severe impact on the quality of life and survival of cancer patients. Up to 20% of lung cancer patients and up to 80% of pancreatic cancer patients are diagnosed with cachexia, leading to death in 20% of them. The main drivers of cachexia are cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), macrophage inhibitory cytokine 1 (MIC-1/GDF15) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). Besides its double-edged role as a tumor suppressor and activator, TGF-β causes muscle loss through myostatin-based signaling, involved in the reduction in protein synthesis and enhanced protein degradation. Additionally, TGF-β induces inhibin and activin, causing weight loss and muscle depletion, while MIC-1/GDF15, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, leads to anorexia and so, indirectly, to muscle wasting, acting on the hypothalamus center. Against this background, the blockade of TGF-β is tested as a potential mechanism to revert cachexia, and antibodies against TGF-β reduced weight and muscle loss in murine models of pancreatic cancer. This article reviews the role of the TGF-β pathway and to a minor extent of other molecules including microRNA in cancer onset and progression with a special focus on their involvement in cachexia, to enlighten whether TGF-β and such other players could be potential targets for therapy.
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhao Z, Wang S, Zucknick M, Aittokallio T. Tissue-specific identification of multi-omics features for pan-cancer drug response prediction. iScience 2022; 25:104767. [PMID: 35992090 PMCID: PMC9385562 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Current statistical models for drug response prediction and biomarker identification fall short in leveraging the shared and unique information from various cancer tissues and multi-omics profiles. We developed mix-lasso model that introduces an additional sample group penalty term to capture tissue-specific effects of features on pan-cancer response prediction. The mix-lasso model takes into account both the similarity between drug responses (i.e., multi-task learning), and the heterogeneity between multi-omics data (multi-modal learning). When applied to large-scale pharmacogenomics dataset from Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal, mix-lasso enabled accurate drug response predictions and identification of tissue-specific predictive features in the presence of various degrees of missing data, drug-drug correlations, and high-dimensional and correlated genomic and molecular features that often hinder the use of statistical approaches in drug response modeling. Compared to tree lasso model, mix-lasso identified a smaller number of tissue-specific features, hence making the model more interpretable and stable for drug discovery applications. Pan-cancer cell lines provide a test bench for exploring gene-drug relationships Multi-omics data were integrated with pharmacological profiles for joint modeling Mix-lasso identifies tissue-specific biomarkers predictive of multi-drug responses Mix-lasso provides small number of stable features for drug discovery applications
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhao
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Cancer Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
- Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Shixiong Wang
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Cancer Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Manuela Zucknick
- Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
- Corresponding author
| | - Tero Aittokallio
- Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Cancer Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
- Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tian Z, Meng L, Wang X, Diao T, Hu M, Wang M, Zhang Y, Liu M, Wang J. CGN Correlates With the Prognosis and Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:758974. [PMID: 35223987 PMCID: PMC8865610 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.758974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to screen and verify the important prognostic genes related to clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and further analyze their relationship with the immune microenvironment. Gene expression profiles from the TCGA-KIRC, GSE46699, GSE36895, and GSE16449 datasets were utilized to explore differentially co-expressed genes in ccRCC. We screened 124 differentially co-expressed genes using a weighted gene co-expression network and differential gene expression analyses. Univariate and multivariate Cox survival analyses revealed that the expressions of genes CGN, FECH, UCHL1, and WT1 were independently related to the overall survival of ccRCC patients. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed, and CGN was found to have the strongest correlation with the prognosis of ccRCC patients and was consequently selected for further analyses and experimental verification. The results showed that NK cell activation, resting dendritic cells, resting monocytes, and resting mast cells were positively correlated with CGN expression; CD4+ memory activated T cells, regulatory T cells, and M0 macrophages were negatively correlated with CGN expression. Finally, using western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we verified that the CGN protein level was down-regulated in ccRCC samples, which was consistent with the mRNA levels. CGN was thus identified as diagnosis and prognosis biomarker for ccRCC and is related to the immune microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Tian
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lingfeng Meng
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tongxiang Diao
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Maolin Hu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Wang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqun Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianye Wang, ; Ming Liu, ; Yaqun Zhang,
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianye Wang, ; Ming Liu, ; Yaqun Zhang,
| | - Jianye Wang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianye Wang, ; Ming Liu, ; Yaqun Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Epithelial plasticity, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and the TGF-β family. Dev Cell 2021; 56:726-746. [PMID: 33756119 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cells repress epithelial characteristics and elaborate mesenchymal characteristics to migrate to other locations and acquire new properties. Epithelial plasticity responses are directed through cooperation of signaling pathways, with TGF-β and TGF-β-related proteins playing prominent instructive roles. Epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) directed by activin-like molecules, bone morphogenetic proteins, or TGF-β regulate metazoan development and wound healing and drive fibrosis and cancer progression. In carcinomas, diverse EMTs enable stem cell generation, anti-cancer drug resistance, genomic instability, and localized immunosuppression. This review discusses roles of TGF-β and TGF-β-related proteins, and underlying molecular mechanisms, in epithelial plasticity in development and wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer.
Collapse
|
17
|
The Anticancer Effects of Flavonoids through miRNAs Modulations in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041212. [PMID: 33916931 PMCID: PMC8067583 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple- negative breast cancer (TNBC) incidence rate has regularly risen over the last decades and is expected to increase in the future. Finding novel treatment options with minimum or no toxicity is of great importance in treating or preventing TNBC. Flavonoids are new attractive molecules that might fulfill this promising therapeutic option. Flavonoids have shown many biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In addition to their anticancer effects by arresting the cell cycle, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing cancer cell proliferation, flavonoids can modulate non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) function. Several preclinical and epidemiological studies indicate the possible therapeutic potential of these compounds. Flavonoids display a unique ability to change miRNAs' levels via different mechanisms, either by suppressing oncogenic miRNAs or activating oncosuppressor miRNAs or affecting transcriptional, epigenetic miRNA processing in TNBC. Flavonoids are not only involved in the regulation of miRNA-mediated cancer initiation, growth, proliferation, differentiation, invasion, metastasis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), but also control miRNAs-mediated biological processes that significantly impact TNBC, such as cell cycle, immune system, mitochondrial dysregulation, modulating signaling pathways, inflammation, and angiogenesis. In this review, we highlighted the role of miRNAs in TNBC cancer progression and the effect of flavonoids on miRNA regulation, emphasizing their anticipated role in the prevention and treatment of TNBC.
Collapse
|
18
|
Mojsilovic S, Mojsilovic SS, Bjelica S, Santibanez JF. Transforming growth factor-beta1 and myeloid-derived suppressor cells: A cancerous partnership. Dev Dyn 2021; 251:105-124. [PMID: 33797140 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) plays a crucial role in tumor progression. It can inhibit early cancer stages but promotes tumor growth and development at the late stages of tumorigenesis. TGF-β1 has a potent immunosuppressive function within the tumor microenvironment that largely contributes to tumor cells' immune escape and reduction in cancer immunotherapy responses. Likewise, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have been postulated as leading tumor promoters and a hallmark of cancer immune evasion mechanisms. This review attempts to analyze the prominent roles of both TGF-β1 and MDSCs and their interplay in cancer immunity. Furthermore, therapies against either TGF-β1 or MDSCs, and their potential synergistic combination with immunotherapies are discussed. Simultaneous TGF-β1 and MDSCs inhibition suggest a potential improvement in immunotherapy or subverted tumor immune resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Slavko Mojsilovic
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology and Stem Cells, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sonja S Mojsilovic
- Laboratory for Immunochemistry, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Suncica Bjelica
- Department of Hematology, Clinical Hospital Centre Dragisa Misovic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan F Santibanez
- Molecular oncology group, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Republic of Serbia.,Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Prominent Role of Histone Modifications in the Regulation of Tumor Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052778. [PMID: 33803458 PMCID: PMC7967218 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor aggressiveness and progression is highly dependent on the process of metastasis, regulated by the coordinated interplay of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Metastasis involves several steps of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), anoikis resistance, intra- and extravasation, and new tissue colonization. EMT is considered as the most critical process allowing cancer cells to switch their epithelial characteristics and acquire mesenchymal properties. Emerging evidence demonstrates that epigenetics mechanisms, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs participate in the widespread changes of gene expression that characterize the metastatic phenotype. At the chromatin level, active and repressive histone post-translational modifications (PTM) in association with pleiotropic transcription factors regulate pivotal genes involved in the initiation of the EMT process as well as in intravasation and anoikis resistance, playing a central role in the progression of tumors. Herein, we discuss the main epigenetic mechanisms associated with the different steps of metastatic process, focusing in particular on the prominent role of histone modifications and the modifying enzymes that mediate transcriptional regulation of genes associated with tumor progression. We further discuss the development of novel treatment strategies targeting the reversibility of histone modifications and highlight their importance in the future of cancer therapy.
Collapse
|
20
|
Strepkos D, Markouli M, Klonou A, Papavassiliou AG, Piperi C. Histone Methyltransferase SETDB1: A Common Denominator of Tumorigenesis with Therapeutic Potential. Cancer Res 2021; 81:525-534. [PMID: 33115801 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression has been ultimately linked to cancer development, with posttranslational histone modifications representing attractive targets for disease monitoring and therapy. Emerging data have demonstrated histone lysine (K) methylation by methyltransferase SETDB1 as a common denominator of gene regulation in several cancer types. SETDB1 reversibly catalyzes the di- and trimethylation of histone 3 (H3) K9 in euchromatic regions of chromosomes, inhibiting gene transcription within these regions and promoting a switch from euchromatic to heterochromatic states. Recent studies have implicated aberrant SETDB1 activity in the development of various types of cancers, including brain, head and neck, lung, breast, gastrointestinal, ovarian, endometrial and prostate cancer, mesothelioma, melanoma, leukemias, and osteosarcoma. Although its role has not been fully elucidated in every case, most data point toward a pro-oncogenic potential of SETDB1 via the downregulation of critical tumor-suppressive genes. Less commonly, however, SETDB1 can also acquire a tumor-suppressive role, depending on cancer type and stage. Here we provide an updated overview of the cellular and molecular effects underlying SETDB1 activity in cancer development and progression along with current targeting strategies in different cancer types, with promising effects either as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Strepkos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexia Klonou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pampalakis G, Zingkou E, Zoumpourlis V, Sotiropoulou G. Ectopic expression of KLK6 in MDA-MB-435 melanoma cells reduces tumorigenicity in vivo. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 217:153276. [PMID: 33249398 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.153276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive form of cancer with poor prognosis therefore, identification of associated pathophysiological mechanisms is imperative towards the development of new therapeutic strategies. The KLK6 is a serine protease normally expressed in the epidermis. Recently, we found that elimination of Klk6 in mice results in enhanced resistance to chemically induced non-melanoma skin cancer. To delineate putative roles of KLK6 in melanoma, the invasive KLK6-non-expressing MDA-MB-435 melanoma cell line was stably transfected with the full-length KLK6 cDNA and expression of the corresponding RNA and protein were confirmed. Interestingly, restoration of KLK6 expression resulted in markedly suppressed growth of primary tumors when orthotopically implanted in SCID mice. Analysis of data retrieved from the human protein atlas revealed that melanomas with high KLK6 expression have a trend for longer survival. Collectively, we suggest that KLK6 inhibits growth of melanomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Pampalakis
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rion-Patras, 265 04, Greece
| | - Eleni Zingkou
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rion-Patras, 265 04, Greece
| | | | - Georgia Sotiropoulou
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rion-Patras, 265 04, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Riching AS, Danis E, Zhao Y, Cao Y, Chi C, Bagchi RA, Klein BJ, Xu H, Kutateladze TG, McKinsey TA, Buttrick PM, Song K. Suppression of canonical TGF-β signaling enables GATA4 to interact with H3K27me3 demethylase JMJD3 to promote cardiomyogenesis. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2020; 153:44-59. [PMID: 33359755 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes (CMs) represents a promising strategy to regenerate CMs lost after ischemic heart injury. Overexpression of GATA4, HAND2, MEF2C, TBX5, miR-1, and miR-133 (GHMT2m) along with transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) inhibition efficiently promote reprogramming. However, the mechanisms by which TGF-β blockade promotes cardiac reprogramming remain unknown. Here, we identify interactions between the histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) demethylase JMJD3, the SWI/SNF remodeling complex subunit BRG1, and cardiac transcription factors. Furthermore, canonical TGF-β signaling regulates the interaction between GATA4 and JMJD3. TGF-β activation impairs the ability of GATA4 to bind target genes and prevents demethylation of H3K27 at cardiac gene promoters during cardiac reprogramming. Finally, a mutation in GATA4 (V267M) that is associated with congenital heart disease exhibits reduced binding to JMJD3 and impairs cardiomyogenesis. Thus, we have identified an epigenetic mechanism wherein canonical TGF-β pathway activation impairs cardiac gene programming, in part by interfering with GATA4-JMJD3 interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Riching
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Etienne Danis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Yuanbiao Zhao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Yingqiong Cao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Congwu Chi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rushita A Bagchi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Brianna J Klein
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Tatiana G Kutateladze
- Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Timothy A McKinsey
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Peter M Buttrick
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kunhua Song
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; The Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Pharmacology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yu Y, Liao H, Xie R, Zhang Y, Zheng R, Chen J, Zhang B. Overexpression of miRNA-3613-3p Enhances the Sensitivity of Triple Negative Breast Cancer to CDK4/6 Inhibitor Palbociclib. Front Oncol 2020; 10:590813. [PMID: 33330073 PMCID: PMC7729088 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.590813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by lack of expression of the estrogen and progesterone receptors and HER2, which are common therapeutic targets. CDK4/6 inhibitor Palbociclib has been approved as an anti-cancer agent for breast cancer. However, identifying biomarkers that predict the response to Palbociclib has always been a challenge for molecular targeted therapy. In this study, we identify microRNA as a hallmark in TNBC patients and explore if miR-3613-3p might serve as a tumor suppressor biomarker for triple negative breast cancer patients and if overexpression of miR-3613-3p could enhance the sensitivity of TNBC cells to Palbociclib. We show that the expression of miR3613-3p was down-regulated in TNBC tumors and cells, and the overexpression of miR-3613-3p in patients’ tumor tissues was clinically and pathologically correlated with favorable prognosis, such as smaller tumor size and the lower Ki-67. In vitro, overexpression of miR-3613-3p inhibited cell proliferation, induced G1 cell-cycle arrest, and enhanced the sensitivity of TNBC cells to Palbociclib treatment. In vivo study revealed that overexpression of miR-3613-3p inhibited TNBC tumorigenesis and exerted a significant inhibitory effect of Palbociclib on MDA-MB-231 cells. Mechanically, SMAD2 and EZH2 were found to be two direct targets of miR-3613-3p and mediate the proliferation of TNBC cells and the sensitivity of the cells to Palbociclib through inducing cellular senescence. Our findings suggested that miR-3613-3p acts as a cancer-suppressor miRNA in TNBC. Moreover, our study showed that miR-3613-3p might be used as a predictive biomarker for the response of TNBC to Palbociclib.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhang Yu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Han Liao
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Xie
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Renjing Zheng
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianying Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Astori A, Matherat G, Munoz I, Gautier EF, Surdez D, Zermati Y, Verdier F, Zaidi S, Feuillet V, Kadi A, Lauret E, Delattre O, Lefèvre C, Fontenay M, Ségal-Bendirdjian E, Dusanter-Fourt I, Bouscary D, Hermine O, Mayeux P, Pendino F. The epigenetic regulator RINF (CXXC5) maintains <i>SMAD7</i> expression in human immature erythroid cells and sustains red blood cells expansion. Haematologica 2020; 107:268-283. [PMID: 33241676 PMCID: PMC8719099 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2020.263558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene CXXC5, encoding a retinoid-inducible nuclear factor (RINF), is located within a region at 5q31.2 commonly deleted in myelodysplastic syndrome and adult acute myeloid leukemia. RINF may act as an epigenetic regulator and has been proposed as a tumor suppressor in hematopoietic malignancies. However, functional studies in normal hematopoiesis are lacking, and its mechanism of action is unknown. Here, we evaluated the consequences of RINF silencing on cytokine-induced erythroid differentiation of human primary CD34+ progenitors. We found that RINF is expressed in immature erythroid cells and that RINF-knockdown accelerated erythropoietin-driven maturation, leading to a significant reduction (~45%) in the number of red blood cells, without affecting cell viability. The phenotype induced by RINF-silencing was dependent on tumor growth factor b (TGFb) and mediated by SMAD7, a TGFb-signaling inhibitor. RINF upregulates SMAD7 expression by direct binding to its promoter and we found a close correlation between RINF and SMAD7 mRNA levels both in CD34+ cells isolated from bone marrow of healthy donors and myelodysplastic syndrome patients with del(5q). Importantly, RINF knockdown attenuated SMAD7 expression in primary cells and ectopic SMAD7 expression was sufficient to prevent the RINF knockdown-dependent erythroid phenotype. Finally, RINF silencing affects 5’-hydroxymethylation of human erythroblasts, in agreement with its recently described role as a TET2-anchoring platform in mouse. Collectively, our data bring insight into how the epigenetic factor RINF, as a transcriptional regulator of SMAD7, may fine-tune cell sensitivity to TGFb superfamily cytokines and thus play an important role in both normal and pathological erythropoiesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Astori
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Gabriel Matherat
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Isabelle Munoz
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Emilie-Fleur Gautier
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Didier Surdez
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris, France; PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, INSERM U830, Paris, France; SIREDO: Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer, Institut Curie, Paris
| | - Yaël Zermati
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris
| | - Frédérique Verdier
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris
| | - Sakina Zaidi
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris, France; PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, INSERM U830, Paris, France; SIREDO: Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer, Institut Curie, Paris
| | - Vincent Feuillet
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris
| | - Amir Kadi
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris
| | - Evelyne Lauret
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Olivier Delattre
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris, France; PSL Research University, Institut Curie Research Center, INSERM U830, Paris, France; SIREDO: Care, Innovation and Research for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer, Institut Curie, Paris
| | - Carine Lefèvre
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris
| | - Michaela Fontenay
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Service d'Hématologie Biologique, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre-Université de Paris, Paris
| | | | - Isabelle Dusanter-Fourt
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Didier Bouscary
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris, France; Université de Paris, Institut Imagine, INSERM, CNRS, F-75015, Paris
| | - Patrick Mayeux
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris
| | - Frédéric Pendino
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France; Laboratory of Excellence GR-ex, Paris, France; Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer (LNCC), Paris.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Background DNA methylation is a key epigenetic regulator contributing to cancer development. To understand the role of DNA methylation in tumorigenesis, it is important to investigate and compare differential methylation (DM) patterns between normal and case samples across different cancer types. However, current pan-cancer analyses call DM separately for each cancer, which suffers from lower statistical power and fails to provide a comprehensive view for patterns across cancers. Methods In this work, we propose a rigorous statistical model, PanDM, to jointly characterize DM patterns across diverse cancer types. PanDM uses the hidden correlations in the combined dataset to improve statistical power through joint modeling. PanDM takes summary statistics from separate analyses as input and performs methylation site clustering, differential methylation detection, and pan-cancer pattern discovery. We demonstrate the favorable performance of PanDM using simulation data. We apply our model to 12 cancer methylome data collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project. We further conduct ontology- and pathway-enrichment analyses to gain new biological insights into the pan-cancer DM patterns learned by PanDM. Results PanDM outperforms two types of separate analyses in the power of DM calling in the simulation study. Application of PanDM to TCGA data reveals 37 pan-cancer DM patterns in the 12 cancer methylomes, including both common and cancer-type-specific patterns. These 37 patterns are in turn used to group cancer types. Functional ontology and biological pathways enriched in the non-common patterns not only underpin the cancer-type-specific etiology and pathogenesis but also unveil the common environmental risk factors shared by multiple cancer types. Moreover, we also identify PanDM-specific DM CpG sites that the common strategy fails to detect. Conclusions PanDM is a powerful tool that provides a systematic way to investigate aberrant methylation patterns across multiple cancer types. Results from real data analyses suggest a novel angle for us to understand the common and specific DM patterns in different cancers. Moreover, as PanDM works on the summary statistics for each cancer type, the same framework can in principle be applied to pan-cancer analyses of other functional genomic profiles. We implement PanDM as an R package, which is freely available at http://www.sta.cuhk.edu.hk/YWei/PanDM.html.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Shi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Stephen Kwok-Wing Tsui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China.,Hong Kong Bioinformatics Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, USA
| | - Yingying Wei
- Department of Statistics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Angiotensin Inhibition, TGF-β and EMT in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102785. [PMID: 32998363 PMCID: PMC7601465 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin inhibitors are standard drugs in cardiovascular and renal diseases that have antihypertensive and antifibrotic properties. These drugs also exert their antifibrotic effects in cancer by reducing collagen and hyaluronan deposition in the tumor stroma, thus enhancing drug delivery. Angiotensin II signaling interferes with the secretion of the cytokine TGF-β-a known driver of malignancy. TGF-β stimulates matrix production in cancer-associated fibroblasts, and thus drives desmoplasia. The effect of TGF-β on cancer cells itself is stage-dependent and changes during malignant progression from inhibitory to stimulatory. The intracellular signaling for the TGF-β family can be divided into an SMAD-dependent canonical pathway and an SMAD-independent noncanonical pathway. These capabilities have made TGF-β an interesting target for numerous drug developments. TGF-β is also an inducer of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is a highly complex spatiotemporal-limited process controlled by a plethora of factors. EMT is a hallmark of metastatic cancer, and with its reversal, an important step in the metastatic cascade is characterized by a loss of epithelial characteristics and/or the gain of mesenchymal traits.
Collapse
|
27
|
Casalino L, Verde P. Multifaceted Roles of DNA Methylation in Neoplastic Transformation, from Tumor Suppressors to EMT and Metastasis. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E922. [PMID: 32806509 PMCID: PMC7463745 DOI: 10.3390/genes11080922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the major mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis, DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification impacting both genomic stability and gene expression. Methylation of promoter-proximal CpG islands (CGIs) and transcriptional silencing of tumor suppressors represent the best characterized epigenetic changes in neoplastic cells. The global cancer-associated effects of DNA hypomethylation influence chromatin architecture and reactivation of repetitive elements. Moreover, recent analyses of cancer cell methylomes highlight the role of the DNA hypomethylation of super-enhancer regions critically controlling the expression of key oncogenic players. We will first summarize some basic aspects of DNA methylation in tumorigenesis, along with the role of dysregulated DNA methyltransferases and TET (Ten-Eleven Translocation)-family methylcytosine dioxygenases. We will then examine the potential contribution of epimutations to causality and heritability of cancer. By reviewing some representative genes subjected to hypermethylation-mediated silencing, we will survey their oncosuppressor functions and roles as biomarkers in various types of cancer. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the gain of stem-like properties are critically involved in cancer cell dissemination, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. However, the driver vs passenger roles of epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation in EMT, are still poorly understood. Therefore, we will focus our attention on several aspects of DNA methylation in control of EMT and metastasis suppressors, including both protein-coding and noncoding genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Casalino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, CNR, 80100 Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Verde
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, CNR, 80100 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Talukdar J, Kataki K, Ali E, Choudhury BN, Baruah MN, Bhattacharyya M, Bhattacharjee S, Medhi S. Altered expression of TGF-β1 and TGF-βR2 in tissue samples compared to blood is associated with food habits and survival in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Curr Probl Cancer 2020; 45:100617. [PMID: 32660703 DOI: 10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2020.100617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathway, TGF-β1 and TGF-β receptor 2 (TGF-βR2) are essential regulatory components which play an important role in different type of cancer. Expressions of TGF-β1 and TGF-βR2 were done by real-time qPCR in both biopsy and blood samples collected from esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients (n = 76). The expression profiles were correlated with different lifestyle factors and clinicopathological parameters. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to estimate survival and hazard outcomes of different parameters. TGF-β1 showed upregulation in 91% tissue samples (2.84 ± 1.34*) and 55% blood samples (2.43 ± 1.24*) whereas expression of TGF-βR2 showed downregulation in 89% tissue samples (0.27 ± 0.23*) and 75% blood samples (0.30 ± 0.26*). Among all the parameters, TGF-β1 expression is significant with histopathology grade, consumption of betel nut and smoked food whereas TGF-βR2 expression is significant only with dysphagia grade in both blood and tissue samples and while analyzing both male and female patients separately. Consuming alcohol and hot food, difference in tumor stage and metastasis were found to have statistically significant (P < 0.05) impact on survival and mortality of male patients while consuming hot food, tobacco, metastasis and TGF-βR2 expression in tissue level were found to associate with survival and mortality of female patients. Expression of both TGF-β1 and TGF-βR2 in tissue samples may be prospective biomarkers for screening of ESCC among the Northeast population. Survival outcomes and hazard analysis supports the importance of some clinicopathological and lifestyle factors on ESCC development, whereas expression study depicts association of change in expression of the studied genes in ESCC patients. *Mean fold change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayasree Talukdar
- Department of Bioengineering and Technology, Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Oncology, GUIST, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India; Department of Gastroenterology, Gauhati Medical College Hospital, Guwahati, India
| | - Kangkana Kataki
- Department of Bioengineering and Technology, Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Oncology, GUIST, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India
| | - Eyashin Ali
- Department of Bioengineering and Technology, Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Oncology, GUIST, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India; Department of Gastroenterology, Gauhati Medical College Hospital, Guwahati, India
| | | | - Munindra Narayan Baruah
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, North East Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Jorabat, India
| | | | | | - Subhash Medhi
- Department of Bioengineering and Technology, Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Oncology, GUIST, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Thrasyvoulou S, Vartholomatos G, Markopoulos G, Noutsopoulos D, Mantziou S, Gkartziou F, Papageorgis P, Charchanti A, Kouklis P, Constantinou AI, Tzavaras T. VL30 retrotransposition is associated with induced EMT, CSC generation and tumorigenesis in HC11 mouse mammary stem‑like epithelial cells. Oncol Rep 2020; 44:126-138. [PMID: 32377731 PMCID: PMC7251778 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons copy their sequences via an RNA intermediate, followed by reverse transcription into cDNA and random insertion, into a new genomic locus. New retrotransposon copies may lead to cell transformation and/or tumorigenesis through insertional mutagenesis. Methylation is a major defense mechanism against retrotransposon RNA expression and retrotransposition in differentiated cells, whereas stem cells are relatively hypo-methylated. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which transforms normal epithelial cells into mesenchymal-like cells, also contributes to tumor progression and tumor metastasis. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a fraction of undifferentiated tumor-initiating cancer cells, are reciprocally related to EMT. In the present study, the outcome of long terminal repeat (LTR)-Viral-Like 30 (VL30) retrotransposition was examined in mouse mammary stem-like/progenitor HC11 epithelial cells. The transfection of HC11 cells with a VL30 retrotransposon, engineered with an EGFP-based retrotransposition cassette, elicited a higher retrotransposition frequency in comparison to differentiated J3B1A and C127 mouse mammary cells. Fluorescence microscopy and PCR analysis confirmed the specificity of retrotransposition events. The differentiated retrotransposition-positive cells retained their epithelial morphology, while the respective HC11 cells acquired mesenchymal features associated with the loss of E-cadherin, the induction of N-cadherin, and fibronectin and vimentin protein expression, as well as an increased transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, Slug, Snail-1 and Twist mRNA expression. In addition, they were characterized by cell proliferation in low serum, and the acquisition of CSC-like properties indicated by mammosphere formation under anchorage-independent conditions. Mammospheres exhibited an increased Nanog and Oct4 mRNA expression and a CD44+/CD24−/low antigenic phenotype, as well as self-renewal and differentiation capacity, forming mammary acini-like structures. DNA sequencing analysis of retrotransposition-positive HC11 cells revealed retrotransposed VL30 copies integrated at the vicinity of EMT-, cancer type- and breast cancer-related genes. The inoculation of these cells into Balb/c mice produced cytokeratin-positive tumors containing pancytokeratin-positive cells, indicative of cell invasion features. On the whole, the findings of the present study demonstrate, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, that stem-like epithelial HC11 cells are amenable to VL30 retrotransposition associated with the induction of EMT and CSC generation, leading to tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soteroula Thrasyvoulou
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios Vartholomatos
- Laboratory of Hematology, Unit of Molecular Biology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios Markopoulos
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Noutsopoulos
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stefania Mantziou
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Foteini Gkartziou
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- Biological Sciences Program, Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 2404 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Antonia Charchanti
- Laboratory of Anatomy‑Histology‑Embryology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Panos Kouklis
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Andreas I Constantinou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Cyprus, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Theodore Tzavaras
- Laboratory of General Biology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Learning of Signaling Networks: Molecular Mechanisms. Trends Biochem Sci 2020; 45:284-294. [PMID: 32008897 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Molecular processes of neuronal learning have been well described. However, learning mechanisms of non-neuronal cells are not yet fully understood at the molecular level. Here, we discuss molecular mechanisms of cellular learning, including conformational memory of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and prions, signaling cascades, protein translocation, RNAs [miRNA and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)], and chromatin memory. We hypothesize that these processes constitute the learning of signaling networks and correspond to a generalized Hebbian learning process of single, non-neuronal cells, and we discuss how cellular learning may open novel directions in drug design and inspire new artificial intelligence methods.
Collapse
|
31
|
Kosok M, Alli-Shaik A, Bay BH, Gunaratne J. Comprehensive Proteomic Characterization Reveals Subclass-Specific Molecular Aberrations within Triple-negative Breast Cancer. iScience 2020; 23:100868. [PMID: 32058975 PMCID: PMC7015993 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.100868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer lacking targeted therapies. This is attributed to its high heterogeneity that complicates elucidation of its molecular aberrations. Here, we report identification of specific proteome expression profiles pertaining to two TNBC subclasses, basal A and basal B, through in-depth proteomics analysis of breast cancer cells. We observed that kinases and proteases displayed unique expression patterns within the subclasses. Systematic analyses of protein-protein interaction and co-regulation networks of these kinases and proteases unraveled dysregulated pathways and plausible targets for each TNBC subclass. Among these, we identified kinases AXL, PEAK1, and TGFBR2 and proteases FAP, UCHL1, and MMP2/14 as specific targets for basal B subclass, which represents the more aggressive TNBC cell lines. Our study highlights intricate mechanisms and distinct targets within TNBC and emphasizes that these have to be exploited in a subclass-specific manner rather than a one-for-all TNBC therapy. Proteome profiling reveals functionally distinct subclasses within TNBC Kinases and proteases underlie unique functional signatures among the subclasses Kinase-protease-centric networks highlight subclass-specific molecular rewiring Protein association dysregulations reveal TNBC subclass-specific protein targets
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max Kosok
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
| | - Asfa Alli-Shaik
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Boon Huat Bay
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
| | - Jayantha Gunaratne
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Thiagalingam S. Epigenetic memory in development and disease: Unraveling the mechanism. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188349. [PMID: 31982403 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic memory is an essential process of life that governs the inheritance of predestined functional characteristics of normal cells and the newly acquired properties of cells affected by cancer and other diseases from parental to progeny cells. Unraveling the molecular basis of epigenetic memory dictated by protein and RNA factors in conjunction with epigenetic marks that are erased and re-established during embryogenesis/development during the formation of somatic, stem and disease cells will have far reaching implications to our understanding of embryogenesis/development and various diseases including cancer. While there has been enormous progress made, there are still gaps in knowledge which includes, the identity of unique epigenetic memory factors (EMFs) and epigenome coding enzymes/co-factors/scaffolding proteins involved in the assembly of defined "epigenetic memorysomes" and the epigenome marks that constitute collections of gene specific epigenetic memories corresponding to specific cell types and physiological conditions. A better understanding of the molecular basis for epigenetic memory will play a central role in improving diagnostics and prognostics of disease states and aid the development of targeted therapeutics of complex diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam Thiagalingam
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics Section and Cancer Center), Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang S, Zhang M, Zhang T, Deng J, Xia X, Fang X. microRNA-141 inhibits TGF-β1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through inhibition of the TGF-β1/SMAD2 signalling pathway in endometriosis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 301:707-714. [PMID: 31903498 PMCID: PMC7060956 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05429-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recent studies have demonstrated the differential expression of micro(mi)RNAs in endometriosis. Previously, we reported the low expression of miR-141 in patients with this disease. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1)-induced SMAD2 signalling pathway are central to tumour proliferation and invasion. However, the role of miR-141 in regulating the TGF-β1/SMAD2 signalling pathway and the associated EMT to be elucidated. METHODS The levels of TGF-β1/SMAD2 signalling and EMT markers expression in eutopic and ectopic endometria of endometriosis were determined by immunohistochemistry and western blot analyses. MiR-141 expression was analysed by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cellular invasion and proliferation were determined by transwell and CCK-8 assays, respectively. Functional assay of miR-141 was performed using plasmid and shRNA transfection methods. RESULT The presence of miR-141, EMT, and TGF-β1/SMAD2 signalling markers were detected in eutopic and ectopic endometria of endometriosis. TGF-β1-induced EMT in Ishikawa (ISK) cells by activating the SMAD2 signalling pathway, whereas miR-141 inhibited the TGF-β1-induced EMT, proliferation and invasion abilities of these cells. CONCLUSION These data identify miR-141 as a novel driver of EMT in endometriosis, implicates the link between miR-141 and TGF-β1/SMAD2 signalling pathway in the context of endometriosis, and underscore the role of EMT in the development of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sixue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Mengmeng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Juan Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xiaomeng Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoling Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 139 Renmin Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Sun J, Lu Y, Yu C, Xu T, Nie G, Miao B, Zhang X. Involvement of the TGF-β1 pathway in caveolin-1-associated regulation of head and neck tumor cell metastasis. Oncol Lett 2019; 19:1298-1304. [PMID: 31966060 PMCID: PMC6956420 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.11187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most frequent malignancy with a 5-year survival rate of 54%. Therefore, disease management improvement is required. The present study aimed to assess the role of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) in the metastasis of head and neck tumor cells. Short hairpin RNA was used to silence Cav-1 expression in Tu686 cells. Proliferation, migration, invasion, morphology and the levels of effector proteins were assessed in cells. Upon Cav-1 silencing, E-cadherin levels were decreased, while vimentin levels were significantly increased. Cell migration, quantified by wound healing and Transwell assays, was significantly increased. Meanwhile, Cav-1 and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) receptor were identified to be co-localized. In addition, Cav-1-knockdown resulted in increased phosphorylation of SMAD family member 2 (P<0.05), a downstream effector of TGF-β signaling. In addition, there was a mutual regulation, with increasing TGF-β1 levels leading to a dose-dependent decrease of Cav-1 expression levels (P<0.05). These findings indicate that Cav-1 inhibits cell metastasis in HNSCC, suggesting the involvement of the TGF-β signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinjie Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, P.R. China.,Department of Otolaryngology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Yongtian Lu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, P.R. China
| | - Changyun Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Guohui Nie
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, P.R. China
| | - Beiping Miao
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, P.R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Punzi S, Balestrieri C, D'Alesio C, Bossi D, Dellino GI, Gatti E, Pruneri G, Criscitiello C, Lovati G, Meliksetyan M, Carugo A, Curigliano G, Natoli G, Pelicci PG, Lanfrancone L. WDR5 inhibition halts metastasis dissemination by repressing the mesenchymal phenotype of breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res 2019; 21:123. [PMID: 31752957 PMCID: PMC6873410 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-019-1216-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Development of metastases and drug resistance are still a challenge for a successful systemic treatment in breast cancer (BC) patients. One of the mechanisms that confer metastatic properties to the cell relies in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, both EMT and metastasis are partly modulated through epigenetic mechanisms, by repression or induction of specific related genes. Methods We applied shRNAs and drug targeting approaches in BC cell lines and metastatic patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models to inhibit WDR5, the core subunit of histone H3 K4 methyltransferase complexes, and evaluate its role in metastasis regulation. Result We report that WDR5 is crucial in regulating tumorigenesis and metastasis spreading during BC progression. In particular, WDR5 loss reduces the metastatic properties of the cells by reverting the mesenchymal phenotype of triple negative- and luminal B-derived cells, thus inducing an epithelial trait. We also suggest that this regulation is mediated by TGFβ1, implying a prominent role of WDR5 in driving EMT through TGFβ1 activation. Moreover, such EMT reversion can be induced by drug targeting of WDR5 as well, leading to BC cell sensitization to chemotherapy and enhancement of paclitaxel-dependent effects. Conclusions We suggest that WDR5 inhibition could be a promising pharmacologic approach to reduce cell migration, revert EMT, and block metastasis formation in BC, thus overcoming resistance to standard treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Punzi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Balestrieri
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), 20090, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Rozzano (MI), 20089, Italy
| | - Carolina D'Alesio
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Present address: Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Di.M.I), University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniela Bossi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Present address: Institute of Oncology Research (IOR), Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Gaetano Ivan Dellino
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Gatti
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Pruneri
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathology, Biobank for Translational Medicine Unit, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Present address: Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori - Fondazione IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmen Criscitiello
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Lovati
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Marine Meliksetyan
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Carugo
- Institute for Applied Cancer Science, UT MD Anderson Cancer Cente, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Natoli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), 20090, Italy.,Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Rozzano (MI), 20089, Italy
| | - Pier Giuseppe Pelicci
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Lanfrancone
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Figueroa CD, Molina L, Bhoola KD, Ehrenfeld P. Overview of tissue kallikrein and kallikrein-related peptidases in breast cancer. Biol Chem 2019; 399:937-957. [PMID: 29885274 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2018-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The kallikrein family comprises tissue kallikrein and 14 kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) recognized as a subgroup of secreted trypsin- or chymotrypsin-like serine proteases. KLKs are expressed in many cellular types where they regulate important physiological activities such as semen liquefaction, immune response, neural development, blood pressure, skin desquamation and tooth enamel formation. Tissue kallikrein, the oldest member and kinin-releasing enzyme, and KLK3/PSA, a tumor biomarker for prostate cancer are the most prominent components of the family. Additionally, other KLKs have shown an abnormal expression in neoplasia, particularly in breast cancer. Thus, increased levels of some KLKs may increase extracellular matrix degradation, invasion and metastasis; other KLKs modulate cell growth, survival and angiogenesis. On the contrary, KLKs can also inhibit angiogenesis and produce tumor suppression. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how KLKs are regulated in tumor microenvironment by molecules present at the site, namely cytokines, inflammatory mediators and growth factors. Little is known about the signaling pathways that control expression/secretion of KLKs in breast cancer, and further how activation of PAR receptors may contribute to functional activity in neoplasia. A better understanding of these molecular events will allow us to consider KLKs as relevant therapeutic targets for breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos D Figueroa
- Laboratory of Cellular Pathology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Luis Molina
- Department of Science, Universidad San Sebastián, sede De la Patagonia, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Kanti D Bhoola
- Laboratory of Cellular Pathology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Pamela Ehrenfeld
- Laboratory of Cellular Pathology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Centro de Investigaciones del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Valdivia, Chile, e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wong CK, Gromisch C, Ozturk S, Papageorgis P, Abdolmaleky HM, Reinhard BM, Thiagalingam A, Thiagalingam S. MicroRNA-4417 is a tumor suppressor and prognostic biomarker for triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Biol Ther 2019; 20:1113-1120. [PMID: 30922194 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2019.1595285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive form of breast cancer with poor prognosis due to lack of druggable targets such as hormone and growth factor receptors. Therefore, identification of targetable regulators such as miRNAs could provide new avenues for therapeutic applications. Here, we report that the expression of miR-4417 is suppressed during the progression of TNBC cells from non-malignant to the malignant stage. MiR-4417 is localized to chromosome 1p36, a region with high frequency of loss of heterozygosity in multiple cancers, and its biogenesis is DICER-dependent. Low expression of miR-4417 is significantly associated with worse prognosis in TNBC patients, while overexpression of miR-4417 is sufficient to inhibit migration and mammosphere formation of TNBC cells in vitro. Overall, our findings suggest miR-4417 exerts a tumor suppressive effect and thereby could serve as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic tool against TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Khuan Wong
- a Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,b Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Christopher Gromisch
- c Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Sait Ozturk
- d Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,e Department of Oncological Sciences , Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , NY , USA
| | - Panagiotis Papageorgis
- f Department of Life Sciences , School of Sciences, European University Cyprus , Nicosia , Cyprus
| | - Hamid Mostafavi Abdolmaleky
- b Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Björn M Reinhard
- g Department of Chemistry , Boston University , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Arunthathi Thiagalingam
- b Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,h Translational Science , IPSEN Bioscience, Inc , Cambridge , MA , USA
| | - Sam Thiagalingam
- a Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,b Biomedical Genetics Section, Department of Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,c Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,d Graduate Program in Molecular and Translational Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,i Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Young MA, May S, Damo A, Yoon YS, Hur MW, Swat W, Parry L. Epigenetic Regulation of Dlg1, via Kaiso, Alters Mitotic Spindle Polarity and Promotes Intestinal Tumorigenesis. Mol Cancer Res 2019; 17:686-696. [PMID: 30552232 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-18-0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Both alterations to the epigenome and loss of polarity have been linked to cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. It has previously been demonstrated that loss of the epigenetic reader protein Kaiso suppresses intestinal tumorigenesis in the Apc+/min mouse model, in which altered polarity plays a key role. Thus, we investigated the link between Kaiso deficiency, polarity, and suppression of intestinal tumorigenesis. We used Kaiso-deficient mice to conditionally delete Apc within the intestinal epithelia and demonstrated upregulation of the spindle polarity genes Dlg1 and Dlgap1. To understand the role of Dlg1, we generated Villin-creApc+/minDlg1flx/flx Kaiso-/y mice to analyze gene expression, survival, tumor burden, and spindle orientation. In vivo analysis of the Dlg1-deficient intestine revealed improper orientation of mitotic spindles and a decreased rate of cellular migration. Loss of Dlg1 decreased survival in Apc+/min mice, validating its role as a tumor suppressor in the intestine. Significantly, the increased survival of Apc+/minKaisoy/- mice was shown to be dependent on Dlg1 expression. Taken together, these data indicate that maintenance of spindle polarity in the intestinal crypt requires appropriate regulation of Dlg1 expression. As Dlg1 loss leads to incorrect spindle orientation and a delay in cells transiting the intestinal crypt. We propose that the delayed exit from the crypt increase the window in which spontaneous mutations can become fixed, producing a "tumor-permissive" environment, without an increase in mutation rate. IMPLICATIONS: Loss of mitotic spindle polarity delays the exit of cells from the intestinal crypt and promotes a tumorigenic environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine A Young
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cathays, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie May
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cathays, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Angelos Damo
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cathays, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Young So Yoon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Yonsei University School of Medicine, Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemoon-Ku, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Man-Wook Hur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Yonsei University School of Medicine, Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemoon-Ku, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wojiech Swat
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Missouri
| | - Lee Parry
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cathays, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kalli M, Mpekris F, Wong CK, Panagi M, Ozturk S, Thiagalingam S, Stylianopoulos T, Papageorgis P. Activin A Signaling Regulates IL13Rα2 Expression to Promote Breast Cancer Metastasis. Front Oncol 2019; 9:32. [PMID: 30805303 PMCID: PMC6370707 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic dissemination of cancer cells to distal organs is the major cause of death for patients suffering from the aggressive basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) subtype. Recently, we have shown that interleukin 13 receptor alpha 2 (IL13Rα2) is a critical gene that is overexpressed in a subset of BLBC primary tumors associated with poor distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) and can promote extravasation and metastasis of breast cancer cells to the lungs. However, the upstream signaling mechanisms that promote aberrant IL13Rα2 expression during tumor progression remain unknown. Driven by our previously published gene expression microarray data derived from a well-characterized cell line model for BLBC progression, we show that both Inhibin βA (INHBA) and IL13Rα2 genes exhibit similarly higher expression levels in metastatic compared to non-metastatic cells and that overexpression of both genes predicts worse metastasis-free survival of patients with high grade tumors. Activin A, a member of the TGFβ superfamily comprising two INHBA subunits, has been shown to play context-depended roles in cancer progression. Here, we demonstrate that INHBA depletion downregulates IL13Rα2 expression in metastatic breast cancer cells, whereas treatment with Activin A in non-metastatic cells increases its expression levels. We also find that Activin A predominantly induces Smad2 phosphorylation and to a lesser extent activates Smad3 and Akt. Interestingly, we also show that Activin A-mediated upregulation of IL13Rα2 is Smad2-dependent since knocking down Smad2 or using the ALK4/ALK5 inhibitors EW-7197 and SB-505124 abolishes this effect. Most importantly, our data indicate that knocking down INHBA levels in breast cancer cells delays primary tumor growth, suppresses migration in vitro and inhibits the formation of lung metastases in vivo. Conclusively, our findings presented here suggest that the development of therapeutic interventions employing small molecule inhibitors against Activin receptors or neutralizing antibodies targeting Activin A ligand, could serve as alternative approaches against breast tumors overexpressing INHBA and/or IL13Rα2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kalli
- Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Fotios Mpekris
- Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Chen K Wong
- Genetics & Genomics and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Biomedical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Program and Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Myrofora Panagi
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sait Ozturk
- Genetics & Genomics and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Biomedical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Program and Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sam Thiagalingam
- Genetics & Genomics and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Biomedical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Program and Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Yan L, Xu F, Dai CL. Relationship between epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the inflammatory microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2018; 37:203. [PMID: 30157906 PMCID: PMC6114477 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0887-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex process involving multiple genes, steps and stages. It refers to the disruption of tight intercellular junctions among epithelial cells under specific conditions, resulting in loss of the original polarity, order and consistency of the cells. Following EMT, the cells show interstitial cell characteristics with the capacity for adhesion and migration, while apoptosis is inhibited. This process is critically involved in embryogenesis, wound-healing, tumor invasion and metastasis. The tumor microenvironment is composed of infiltrating inflammatory cells, stromal cells and the active medium secreted by interstitial cells. Most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have a history of hepatitis virus infection. In such cases, major components of the tumor microenvironment include inflammatory cells, inflammatory factors and virus-encoded protein are major components. Here, we review the relationship between EMT and the inflammatory tumor microenvironment in the context of HCC. We also further elaborate the significant influence of infiltrating inflammatory cells and inflammatory mediators as well as the products expressed by the infecting virus in the tumor microenvironment on the EMT process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Splenic Surgery, Sheng Jing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Splenic Surgery, Sheng Jing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Chao-Liu Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Splenic Surgery, Sheng Jing Hospital of China Medical University, No.36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mitra P, Kalailingam P, Tan HB, Thanabalu T. Overexpression of GRB2 Enhances Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition of A549 Cells by Upregulating SNAIL Expression. Cells 2018; 7:cells7080097. [PMID: 30087284 PMCID: PMC6116178 DOI: 10.3390/cells7080097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
GRB2 is an adaptor protein which interacts with phosphorylated TGF-β receptor and is critical for mammary tumour growth. We found that TGF-β1-induced EMT increased GRB2 expression in A549 cells (non-small cell lung cancer). Overexpression of GRB2 (A549GRB2) enhanced cell invasion while knocking down GRB2 (A549GRB2KD) reduced cell migration and invasion, probably due to increased vinculin and reduced Paxillin patches in A549GRB2KD cell. TGF-β1-induced EMT was more pronounced in A549GRB2 cells and attenuated in A549GRB2KD cells. This could be due to the reduced expression of E-cadherin in A549GRB2 and increased expression of E-cadherin in A549GRB2KD cells, even before TGF-β1 stimulation. Expression of SNAIL was elevated in A549GRB2 cells and was further enhanced by TGF-β1 stimulation, suggesting that GRB2 down-regulates E-cadherin by enhancing the expression of SNAIL. The N-SH3 domain of GRB2 was critical for suppressing E-cadherin expression, while the C-SH3 domain of GRB2 mediating interaction with proteins such as N-WASP was critical for promoting invasion, and the SH2 domain was critical for suppressing E-cadherin expression and invasion. Thus, our data suggests that GRB2 enhances EMT by suppressing E-cadherin expression and promoting invasion probably through N-WASP to promote metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Payal Mitra
- Department of Molecular Medicine, STRF, University of Texas Health San Antonio, 8403 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| | | | - Hui Bing Tan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
- National University Health System (NUHS), 119228 Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Thirumaran Thanabalu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bu X, Zhang X, Xu J, Yang H, Zhou X, Wang H, Gong L. Inhibition of DNA methyltransferase 1 by RNA interference reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition in highly metastatic 95D lung cancer cells by inhibiting the Wnt signaling pathway. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:9242-9250. [PMID: 29805653 PMCID: PMC5958636 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications serve important roles in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumorigenesis; however, the role of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) in lung cancer progression remains unclear. In the present study, the expression of DNMT1 in the human NSCLC cell lines 95D (high invasive ability) and 95C (low invasive ability) was analyzed by western blotting. The results demonstrated that the expression of DNMT1 in 95D cells was significantly higher, compared with in 95C cells and small airway epithelial cells. To further define the role of DNMT1 in tumor migration and invasion in NSCLC cells, RNA interference was used to silence DNMT1 expression. Depletion of DNMT1 significantly inhibited 95D cell invasion and migration. In addition, treatment with DNMT1 small interfering RNA resulted in compact cell morphology and significantly increased epithelial marker E-cadherin expression whilst also decreasing the expression of certain mesenchymal markers, including vimentin and fibronectin. Suppression of DNMT1 increased cytoplasmic β-catenin levels while downregulating nuclear β-catenin and Snail, an important regulator of EMT. The results from the present study suggest that the inhibition of DNMT1 reverses the epithelial-mesenchymal transition partly via the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and therefore inhibits cell migration and invasion. These results indicate that targeting DNMT1 may inhibit tumor metastasis and that DNMT1 is a promising target for the novel treatment of lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiancong Bu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Rizhao City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Xiangyan Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou 550002, P.R. China
| | - Jinhong Xu
- Institute for Tuberculosis Control and Prevention, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, P.R. China
| | - Heping Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Xiangdong Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Haijing Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| | - Liang Gong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, The Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Culturing conditions highly affect DNA methylation and gene expression levels in MCF7 breast cancer cell line. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2018; 54:331-334. [DOI: 10.1007/s11626-018-0245-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
44
|
The role of curcumae rhizoma-sparganii rhizoma medicated serum in epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the triple negative breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 99:340-345. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.11.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
|
45
|
Neophytou C, Boutsikos P, Papageorgis P. Molecular Mechanisms and Emerging Therapeutic Targets of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis. Front Oncol 2018. [PMID: 29520340 PMCID: PMC5827095 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer represents a highly heterogeneous disease comprised by several subtypes with distinct histological features, underlying molecular etiology and clinical behaviors. It is widely accepted that triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive subtypes, often associated with poor patient outcome due to the development of metastases in secondary organs, such as the lungs, brain, and bone. The molecular complexity of the metastatic process in combination with the lack of effective targeted therapies for TNBC metastasis have fostered significant research efforts during the past few years to identify molecular “drivers” of this lethal cascade. In this review, the most current and important findings on TNBC metastasis, as well as its closely associated basal-like subtype, including metastasis-promoting or suppressor genes and aberrantly regulated signaling pathways at specific stages of the metastatic cascade are being discussed. Finally, the most promising therapeutic approaches and novel strategies emerging from these molecular targets that could potentially be clinically applied in the near future are being highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christiana Neophytou
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Gong F, Guo Y, Niu Y, Jin J, Zhang X, Shi X, Zhang L, Li R, Chen L, Ma RZ. Epigenetic silencing of TET2 and TET3 induces an EMT-like process in melanoma. Oncotarget 2018; 8:315-328. [PMID: 27852070 PMCID: PMC5352122 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a critical step in the progression of cancer. Malignant melanoma, a cancer developed from pigmented melanocytes, metastasizes through an EMT-like process. Ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes, catalyzing the conversion of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxylmethylcytosine (5-hmC), are down regulated in melanoma. However, their roles in the progression and the EMT-like process of melanoma are not fully understood. Here we report that DNA methylation induced silencing of TET2 and TET3 are responsible for the EMT-like process and the metastasis of melanoma. TET2 and TET3 are down regulated in the TGF-β1-induced EMT-like process, and the knocking down of TET2 or TET3 induced this EMT-like process. A DNA demethylating agent antagonized the TGF-β-induced suppression of TET2 and TET3. Furthermore, a ChIP analysis indicated that enhanced recruitment of DNMT3A (DNA Methyltransferase 3A) is the mechanism by which TGF-β induces the silencing of TET2 and TET3. Finally, the overexpression of the TET2 C-terminal sequence partially rescues the TGF-β1-induced EMT-like process in vitro and inhibits tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Hence, our data suggest an epigenetic circuitry that mediates the EMT activated by TGF-β. As an effector, DNMT3A senses the TGF-β signal and silences TET2 and TET3 promoters to induce the EMT-like process and metastasis in melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fuxing Gong
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yu Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yiqian Niu
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jiawei Jin
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaojuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoqian Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Limeng Zhang
- Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Runting Li
- Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Longxin Chen
- Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Runlin Z Ma
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Zhengzhou City Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Du D, Katsuno Y, Meyer D, Budi EH, Chen SH, Koeppen H, Wang H, Akhurst RJ, Derynck R. Smad3-mediated recruitment of the methyltransferase SETDB1/ESET controls Snail1 expression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. EMBO Rep 2017; 19:135-155. [PMID: 29233829 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201744250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), reprogramming of gene expression is accompanied by histone modifications. Whether EMT-promoting signaling directs functional changes in histone methylation has not been established. We show here that the histone lysine methyltransferase SETDB1 represses EMT and that, during TGF-β-induced EMT, cells attenuate SETDB1 expression to relieve this inhibition. SETDB1 also controls stem cell generation, cancer cell motility, invasion, metastatic dissemination, as well as sensitivity to certain cancer drugs. These functions may explain the correlation of breast cancer patient survival with SETDB1 expression. At the molecular level, TGF-β induces SETDB1 recruitment by Smad3, to repress Smad3/4-activated transcription of SNAI1, encoding the EMT "master" transcription factor SNAIL1. Suppression of SNAIL1-mediated gene reprogramming by SETDB1 occurs through H3K9 methylation at the SNAI1 gene that represses its H3K9 acetylation imposed by activated Smad3/4 complexes. SETDB1 therefore defines a TGF-β-regulated balance between histone methylation and acetylation that controls EMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Du
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA .,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yoko Katsuno
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dominique Meyer
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erine H Budi
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Si-Han Chen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Biophysics Graduate Program University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hartmut Koeppen
- Department of Research Pathology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hongjun Wang
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rosemary J Akhurst
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Anatomy, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rik Derynck
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA .,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Anatomy, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang C, Liu P, Wu H, Cui P, Li Y, Liu Y, Liu Z, Gou S. MicroRNA-323-3p inhibits cell invasion and metastasis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma via direct suppression of SMAD2 and SMAD3. Oncotarget 2017; 7:14912-24. [PMID: 26908446 PMCID: PMC4924761 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which accounts for 96% of all pancreatic cancer cases, is characterized by rapid progression, invasion and metastasis. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is an essential pathway in metastatic progression and microRNAs (miRNA) play central roles in the regulation of various biological and pathologic processes including cancer metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in regulation of miRNAs and activation of TGF-β signaling in PDAC remain to be established. The results of this study suggested that miR-323-3p expression in PDAC tissues and cell lines was significantly decreased compared to levels in normal pancreatic tissues and primary cultured pancreatic duct epithelial cells. Further investigation revealed that miR-323-3p directly targeted and suppressed SMAD2 and SMAD3, both key components in TGF-β signaling. Lower levels of miR-323-3p predicted poorer prognosis in patients with PDAC. Ectopic overexpression of miR-323-3p significantly inhibited, while silencing of miR-323-3p increased the migration and invasion abilities of PDAC cells in vitro. Moreover, using an in vivo mouse model, we demonstrated that overexpressing of miR-323-3p significantly reduced, while knockdown of miR-323-3p enhanced lung metastatic colonization of PANC-1 cells. Furthermore, miR-323-3p-induced TGF-b signaling inhibition and cell motility suppression were partially rescued by overexpressing of Smad2 and Smad3 in PDAC cells. Our findings suggest that re-expression of miR-323-3p might offer a novel therapeutic target against metastasis in patients with PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyou Wang
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Pian Liu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Heshui Wu
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengfei Cui
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongfeng Li
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanmiao Gou
- Pancreatic Disease Institute, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Transforming growth factor βs (TGF-βs) are closely related ligands that have pleiotropic activity on most cell types of the body. They act through common heterotetrameric TGF-β type II and type I transmembrane dual specificity kinase receptor complexes, and the outcome of signaling is context-dependent. In normal tissue, they serve a role in maintaining homeostasis. In many diseased states, particularly fibrosis and cancer, TGF-β ligands are overexpressed and the outcome of signaling is diverted toward disease progression. There has therefore been a concerted effort to develop drugs that block TGF-β signaling for therapeutic benefit. This review will cover the basics of TGF-β signaling and its biological activities relevant to oncology, present a summary of pharmacological TGF-β blockade strategies, and give an update on preclinical and clinical trials for TGF-β blockade in a variety of solid tumor types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary J Akhurst
- Department of Anatomy and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158-9001
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
Transforming growth factor βs (TGF-βs) are closely related ligands that have pleiotropic activity on most cell types of the body. They act through common heterotetrameric TGF-β type II and type I transmembrane dual specificity kinase receptor complexes, and the outcome of signaling is context-dependent. In normal tissue, they serve a role in maintaining homeostasis. In many diseased states, particularly fibrosis and cancer, TGF-β ligands are overexpressed and the outcome of signaling is diverted toward disease progression. There has therefore been a concerted effort to develop drugs that block TGF-β signaling for therapeutic benefit. This review will cover the basics of TGF-β signaling and its biological activities relevant to oncology, present a summary of pharmacological TGF-β blockade strategies, and give an update on preclinical and clinical trials for TGF-β blockade in a variety of solid tumor types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary J Akhurst
- Department of Anatomy and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158-9001
| |
Collapse
|