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Yu Q, Chen J, Zhong C, Yu L, Zhu Y, Xi X, Du B. Polyphyllin VII as a potential medication for targeting epithelial mesenchymal transitionin in thyroid cancer. J Pharmacol Sci 2024; 156:49-56. [PMID: 39179334 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2024.07.002] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The need for novel anti-thyroid cancer (TC) medications is urgent due to the rising incidence and metastatic rates of malignant TC. In this study, we investigated the effect of Polyphyllin VII (PPVII) to TC cells, and explored their potential mechanism. B-CPAP and TPC-1 cells, were used to analyze the antitumor activity of PPVII by quantifying cell growth and metastasis as well as to study the effect on epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). The results showed that PPVII dramatically reduced the capacity of B-CPAP and TPC-1 cells to proliferate and migrate in a dose-response manner. Following PPVII treatment of TC cells, the expression levels of E-cadherin progressively increased and were higher than the control group, while the expression levels of EMT-related genes Vimentin, N-cadherin, Slug, Zeb-1, and Foxe1 gradually declined and were lower than the control group. It was proposed that PPVII might prevent TC from undergoing EMT. The Foxe1 gene was shown to be significantly expressed in TC, and a statistically significant variation in Foxe1 expression was observed across clinical stages of the disease, according to a bioinformatics database study. There was a strong link between the expression of the Foxe1 gene and the EMT-related gene. In the meantime, TC cells' expression of Foxe1 can be inhibited by PPVII. In conclusion, our results showed that PPVII may as a potential medication for targeting EMT in thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Yu
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Jinglin Chen
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Chen Zhong
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Le Yu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Yunhe Zhu
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Xueyan Xi
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Boyu Du
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China; Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, PR China.
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2
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Yao K, Zhan XY, Feng M, Yang KF, Zhou MS, Jia H. Furin, ADAM, and γ-secretase: Core regulatory targets in the Notch pathway and the therapeutic potential for breast cancer. Neoplasia 2024; 57:101041. [PMID: 39208688 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2024.101041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The activation of the Notch pathway promotes the occurrence and progression of breast cancer. The Notch signal plays different roles in different molecular subtypes of breast cancer. In estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, the Notch pathway regulates the activity of estrogen receptors. In human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer, crosstalk between Notch and HER2 enhances HER2 signal expression. In triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), Notch pathway activation is closely linked to tumor invasion and drug resistance. This article offers a comprehensive review of the structural domains, biological functions, and key targets of Notch with a specific focus on the roles of Furin protease, ADAM metalloprotease, and γ-secretase in breast cancer and their potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss the functions and mutual regulatory mechanisms of these proteinases in the Notch pathway as well as other potential targets in the Notch pathway, such as the glycosylation process and key transcription factors. This article also introduces new approaches in the treatment of breast cancer, with a special focus on the molecular characteristics and treatment response differences of different subtypes. We propose that the core regulatory molecules of the Notch pathway may become key targets for development of personalized treatment, which may significantly improve treatment outcomes and prognosis for patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Yao
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, 110034, China.
| | - Xiang-Yi Zhan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Medical College, No. 146 Huanghe North Street, Yuhong District, Shenyang City 110034, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Mei Feng
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, 110034, China.
| | - Ke-Fan Yang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, 110034, China.
| | - Ming-Sheng Zhou
- Shenyang Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology, No. 146 Huanghe North Street, Yuhong District, Shenyang City 110034, Liaoning Province, PR China; Science and Experimental Research Center of Shenyang Medical College, No. 146 Huanghe North Street, Yuhong District, Shenyang City 110034, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Hui Jia
- Shenyang Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology, No. 146 Huanghe North Street, Yuhong District, Shenyang City 110034, Liaoning Province, PR China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Medical College, No. 146 Huanghe North Street, Yuhong District, Shenyang City 110034, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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3
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Jung S, Wang S, Lee D. CancerGATE: Prediction of cancer-driver genes using graph attention autoencoders. Comput Biol Med 2024; 176:108568. [PMID: 38744009 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Discovery of the cancer type specific-driver genes is important for understanding the molecular mechanisms of each cancer type and for providing proper treatment. Recently, graph deep learning methods became widely used in finding cancer-driver genes. However, previous methods had limited performance in individual cancer types due to a small number of cancer-driver genes used in training and biases toward the cancer-driver genes used in training the models. Here, we introduce a novel pipeline, CancerGATE that predicts the cancer-driver genes using graph attention autoencoder (GATE) to learn in a self-supervised manner and can be applied to each of the cancer types. CancerGATE utilizes biological network topology and multi-omics data from 15 types of cancer of 20,079 samples from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA). Attention coefficients calculated in the model are used to prioritize cancer-driver genes by comparing coefficients of cancer and normal contexts. CancerGATE shows a higher AUPRC with a difference ranging from 1.5 % to 36.5 % compared to the previous graph deep learning models in each cancer type. We also show that CancerGATE is free from the bias toward cancer-driver genes used in training, revealing mechanisms of the cancer-driver genes in specific cancer types. Finally, we propose novel cancer-driver gene candidates that could be therapeutic targets for specific cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghwan Jung
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seunghyun Wang
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Doheon Lee
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Choi HY, Zhu Y, Zhao X, Mehta S, Hernandez JC, Lee JJ, Kou Y, Machida R, Giacca M, Del Sal G, Ray R, Eoh H, Tahara SM, Chen L, Tsukamoto H, Machida K. NOTCH localizes to mitochondria through the TBC1D15-FIS1 interaction and is stabilized via blockade of E3 ligase and CDK8 recruitment to reprogram tumor-initiating cells. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:461-477. [PMID: 38409448 PMCID: PMC10907578 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01174-6] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The P53-destabilizing TBC1D15-NOTCH protein interaction promotes self-renewal of tumor-initiating stem-like cells (TICs); however, the mechanisms governing the regulation of this pathway have not been fully elucidated. Here, we show that TBC1D15 stabilizes NOTCH and c-JUN through blockade of E3 ligase and CDK8 recruitment to phosphodegron sequences. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-seq) analysis was performed to determine whether TBC1D15-dependent NOTCH1 binding occurs in TICs or non-TICs. The TIC population was isolated to evaluate TBC1D15-dependent NOTCH1 stabilization mechanisms. The tumor incidence in hepatocyte-specific triple knockout (Alb::CreERT2;Tbc1d15Flox/Flox;Notch1Flox/Flox;Notch2Flox/Flox;HCV-NS5A) Transgenic (Tg) mice and wild-type mice was compared after being fed an alcohol-containing Western diet (WD) for 12 months. The NOTCH1-TBC1D15-FIS1 interaction resulted in recruitment of mitochondria to the perinuclear region. TBC1D15 bound to full-length NUMB and to NUMB isoform 5, which lacks three Ser phosphorylation sites, and relocalized NUMB5 to mitochondria. TBC1D15 binding to NOTCH1 blocked CDK8- and CDK19-mediated phosphorylation of the NOTCH1 PEST phosphodegron to block FBW7 recruitment to Thr-2512 of NOTCH1. ChIP-seq analysis revealed that TBC1D15 and NOTCH1 regulated the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial metabolism-related pathways required for the maintenance of TICs. TBC1D15 inhibited CDK8-mediated phosphorylation to stabilize NOTCH1 and protect it from degradation The NUMB-binding oncoprotein TBC1D15 rescued NOTCH1 from NUMB-mediated ubiquitin-dependent degradation and recruited NOTCH1 to the mitochondrial outer membrane for the generation and expansion of liver TICs. A NOTCH-TBC1D15 inhibitor was found to inhibit NOTCH-dependent pathways and exhibited potent therapeutic effects in PDX mouse models. This unique targeting of the NOTCH-TBC1D15 interaction not only normalized the perinuclear localization of mitochondria but also promoted potent cytotoxic effects against TICs to eradicate patient-derived xenografts through NOTCH-dependent pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Yeon Choi
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yicheng Zhu
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xuyao Zhao
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Simran Mehta
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Hernandez
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jae-Jin Lee
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yi Kou
- Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Risa Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mauro Giacca
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giannino Del Sal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Area Science Park-Padriciano, Trieste, Italy
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Ratna Ray
- Saint Louis University, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hyungjin Eoh
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stanley M Tahara
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lin Chen
- Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Keigo Machida
- Departments of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Lu X, Mao J, Wang Y, Huang Y, Gu M. Water extract of frankincense and myrrh inhibits liver cancer progression and epithelial‑mesenchymal transition through Wnt/β‑catenin signaling. Mol Clin Oncol 2023; 19:77. [PMID: 37719039 PMCID: PMC10502803 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2023.2673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), which serves an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) invasion and metastasis. Frankincense and myrrh (FM) are antitumor agents commonly used in clinical practice. The present study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of water extract of FM on the progression of liver cancer cells. FM was applied to study its effects on HCC cell proliferation. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing and Transwell assays. In addition, western blot was used to study the protein levels associated with EMT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin was detected by immunofluorescence assay. A non-toxic dose of FM significantly inhibited invasion and metastasis of liver cancer cells. Furthermore, FM promoted expression of EMT marker E-cadherin, while decreasing expression of vimentin and N-cadherin. Finally, the protein and the nuclear staining levels of Disheveled 2 and β-catenin were both suppressed by water extract of FM. The water extract of FM inhibited the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells and inhibited EMT by suppressing activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Lu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P.R. China
| | - Jialei Mao
- Department of Oncology, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P.R. China
| | - Yaodong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P.R. China
| | - Yonggang Huang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P.R. China
| | - Maolin Gu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P.R. China
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Bu J, Zhang Y, Wu S, Li H, Sun L, Liu Y, Zhu X, Qiao X, Ma Q, Liu C, Niu N, Xue J, Chen G, Yang Y, Liu C. KK-LC-1 as a therapeutic target to eliminate ALDH + stem cells in triple negative breast cancer. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2602. [PMID: 37147285 PMCID: PMC10163259 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Failure to achieve complete elimination of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) stem cells after adjuvant therapy is associated with poor outcomes. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) is a marker of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), and its enzymatic activity regulates tumor stemness. Identifying upstream targets to control ALDH+ cells may facilitate TNBC tumor suppression. Here, we show that KK-LC-1 determines the stemness of TNBC ALDH+ cells via binding with FAT1 and subsequently promoting its ubiquitination and degradation. This compromises the Hippo pathway and leads to nuclear translocation of YAP1 and ALDH1A1 transcription. These findings identify the KK-LC-1-FAT1-Hippo-ALDH1A1 pathway in TNBC ALDH+ cells as a therapeutic target. To reverse the malignancy due to KK-LC-1 expression, we employ a computational approach and discover Z839878730 (Z8) as an small-molecule inhibitor which may disrupt KK-LC-1 and FAT1 binding. We demonstrate that Z8 suppresses TNBC tumor growth via a mechanism that reactivates the Hippo pathway and decreases TNBC ALDH+ cell stemness and viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Bu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Yixiao Zhang
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Sijin Wu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
- Shenzhen Jingtai Technology Co., Ltd. (XtalPi), International Biomedical Industrial Park (Phase II) 3F, 2 Hongliu Rd, Futian District, 16023, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haonan Li
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 116023, Dalian, China
| | - Lisha Sun
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Shenyang, China
| | - Xudong Zhu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinbo Qiao
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Qingtian Ma
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Nan Niu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Jinqi Xue
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Guanglei Chen
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China
| | - Yongliang Yang
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China.
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 116023, Dalian, China.
| | - Caigang Liu
- Cancer Stem Cell and Translation Medicine Lab, Department of Oncology, Innovative Cancer Drug Research and Development Engineering Center of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 110004, Shenyang, China.
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Ozyurt R, Ozpolat B. Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Estrogen Therapy Resistance and Novel Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5206. [PMID: 36358625 PMCID: PMC9655708 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, constituting one-third of all cancers in women, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Anti-estrogen therapies, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators, significantly improve survival in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) BC patients, which represents about 70% of cases. However, about 60% of patients inevitably experience intrinsic or acquired resistance to anti-estrogen therapies, representing a major clinical problem that leads to relapse, metastasis, and patient deaths. The resistance mechanisms involve mutations of the direct targets of anti-estrogen therapies, compensatory survival pathways, as well as alterations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (e.g., microRNA) that regulate the activity of survival and signaling pathways. Although cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have significantly improved survival, the efficacy of these therapies alone and in combination with anti-estrogen therapy for advanced ER+ BC, are not curative in advanced and metastatic disease. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms causing treatment resistance is critical for developing highly effective therapies and improving patient survival. This review focuses on the key mechanisms that contribute to anti-estrogen therapy resistance and potential new treatment strategies alone and in combination with anti-estrogen drugs to improve the survival of BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumeysa Ozyurt
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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8
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Semina SE, Alejo LH, Chopra S, Kansara NS, Kastrati I, Sartorius CA, Frasor J. Identification of a novel ER-NFĸB-driven stem-like cell population associated with relapse of ER+ breast tumors. Breast Cancer Res 2022; 24:88. [PMID: 36482488 PMCID: PMC9733334 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-022-01585-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 40% of patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer experience relapse. This can be attributed to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which are known to be involved in therapy resistance, relapse, and metastasis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify genes/pathways that drive stem-like cell properties in ER+ breast tumors. METHODS Using single-cell RNA sequencing and various bioinformatics approaches, we identified a unique stem-like population and established its clinical relevance. With follow-up studies, we validated our bioinformatics findings and confirmed the role of ER and NFĸB in the promotion of stem-like properties in breast cancer cell lines and patient-derived models. RESULTS We identified a novel quiescent stem-like cell population that is driven by ER and NFĸB in multiple ER+ breast cancer models. Moreover, we found that a gene signature derived from this stem-like population is expressed in primary ER+ breast tumors, endocrine therapy-resistant and metastatic cell populations and predictive of poor patient outcome. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate a novel role for ER and NFĸB crosstalk in BCSCs biology and understanding the mechanism by which these pathways promote stem properties can be exploited to improve outcomes for ER+ breast cancer patients at risk of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana E. Semina
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Luis H. Alejo
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Shivani Chopra
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Nidhi S. Kansara
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Irida Kastrati
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA ,grid.164971.c0000 0001 1089 6558Present Address: Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
| | - Carol A. Sartorius
- grid.430503.10000 0001 0703 675XDepartment of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045 USA
| | - Jonna Frasor
- grid.185648.60000 0001 2175 0319Department of Physiology and Biophysics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Avenue (MC 901), 2040 COMRB, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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9
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Fatma H, Siddique HR, Maurya SK. The multiple faces of NANOG in cancer: a therapeutic target to chemosensitize therapy-resistant cancers. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1885-1900. [PMID: 34693722 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor NANOG regulates self-renewal and pluripotency in embryonic cells, and its downregulation leads to cell differentiation. Recent studies have linked upregulation of NANOG in various cancers and the regulation of expression of different molecules, and vice versa, to induce proliferation, metastasis, invasion and chemoresistance. Thus NANOG is an oncogene that functions by inducing stem cells' circuitries and heterogeneity in cancers. Understanding NANOG's role in various cancers may lead to it becoming a therapeutic target to halt cancer progression. The NANOG network can also be targeted to resensitize resistant cancer cells to conventional therapies. The current review focuses on NANOG regulation in the various signaling networks leading to cancer progression and chemoresistance, and highlights the therapeutic aspect of targeting NANOG in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Fatma
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
| | - Hifzur R Siddique
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
| | - Santosh K Maurya
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
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10
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Reid S, Haddad D, Tezak A, Weidner A, Wang X, Mautz B, Moore J, Cadiz S, Zhu Y, Zheng W, Mayer IA, Shu XO, Pal T. Impact of molecular subtype and race on HR+, HER2- breast cancer survival. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 189:845-852. [PMID: 34331630 PMCID: PMC8511072 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06342-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is an urgent need to understand the biological factors contributing to the racial survival disparity among women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2- breast cancer. In this study, we examined the impact of PAM50 subtype on 10-year mortality rate in women with HR+, HER2- breast cancer by race. METHODS Women with localized, HR+, HER2- breast cancer diagnosed between 2002 and 2012 from two population-based cohorts were evaluated. Archival tumors were obtained and classified by PAM50 into four molecular subtypes (i.e., luminal A, luminal B, HER2-enriched, and basal-like). The molecular subtypes within HR+, HER2- breast cancers and corresponding 10-year mortality rate were compared between Black and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) women using Cox proportional hazard ratios and survival analysis, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS In this study, 318 women with localized, HR+, HER2- breast cancer were included-227 Black (71%) and 91 NHW (29%). Young Black women (age ≤ 50) had the highest proportion of HR+, non-luminal A tumors (47%), compared to young NHW (10%), older Black women (31%), and older NHW (30%). Overall, women with HR+, non-luminal A subtypes had a higher 10-year mortality rate compared to HR+, luminal A subtypes after adjustment for age, stage, and income (HR 4.21 for Blacks, 95% CI 1.74-10.18 and HR 3.44 for NHW, 95% CI 1.31-9.03). Among HR+, non-luminal A subtypes there was, however, no significant racial difference in 10-yr mortality observed (Black vs. NHW: HR 1.23, 95% CI 0.58-2.58). CONCLUSION Molecular subtype classification highlights racial disparities in PAM50 subtype distribution among women with HR+, HER2- breast cancer. Among women with HR+, HER2- breast cancer, racial survival disparities are ameliorated after adjusting for molecular subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya Reid
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC)/Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC), 2220 Pierce Ave. 777 PRB, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Diane Haddad
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Ann Tezak
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Anne Weidner
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | | | - Brian Mautz
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | | | | | - Yuwei Zhu
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Wei Zheng
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | | | - Xiao-ou Shu
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Tuya Pal
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
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11
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Xiu M, Zeng X, Shan R, Wen W, Li J, Wan R. Targeting Notch4 in Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:7033-7045. [PMID: 34526819 PMCID: PMC8436177 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s315511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of Notch signaling is found in many cancers and is closely related to cancer progression. As an important Notch receptor, abnormal Notch4 expression affects several tumor-cell behaviors, including stemness, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, radio/chemoresistance and angiogenesis. In order to inhibit the oncogenic effects of Notch4 activation, several methods for targeting Notch4 signaling have been proposed. In this review, we summarize the known molecular mechanisms through which Notch4 affects cancer progression. Finally, we discuss potential Notch4-targeting therapeutic strategies as a reference for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Xiu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China.,Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Zeng
- Imaging Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Renfeng Shan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wu Wen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianfeng Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Renhua Wan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
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12
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Dittmer J. Nuclear Mechanisms Involved in Endocrine Resistance. Front Oncol 2021; 11:736597. [PMID: 34604071 PMCID: PMC8480308 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.736597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine therapy is a standard treatment offered to patients with ERα (estrogen receptor α)-positive breast cancer. In endocrine therapy, ERα is either directly targeted by anti-estrogens or indirectly by aromatase inhibitors which cause estrogen deficiency. Resistance to these drugs (endocrine resistance) compromises the efficiency of this treatment and requires additional measures. Endocrine resistance is often caused by deregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and/or cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 activities allowing inhibitors of these factors to be used clinically to counteract endocrine resistance. The nuclear mechanisms involved in endocrine resistance are beginning to emerge. Exploring these mechanisms may reveal additional druggable targets, which could help to further improve patients' outcome in an endocrine resistance setting. This review intends to summarize our current knowledge on the nuclear mechanisms linked to endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Dittmer
- Clinic for Gynecology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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13
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Lei Y, Wang X, Sun H, Fu Y, Tian Y, Yang L, Wang J, Xia F. Association of Preoperative NANOG-Positive Circulating Tumor Cell Levels With Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:601668. [PMID: 34123777 PMCID: PMC8190394 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.601668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been proposed as fundamental causes for the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CTCs isolated from patients with HCC illustrate a unique Nanog expression profile analysis. The aim of this study was to enhance the prediction of recurrence and prognosis of the CTC phenotype in patients with HCC by combining Nanog expression into a combined forecasting model. SUBJECTS MATERIALS AND METHODS We collected 320 blood samples from 160 patients with HCC cancer before surgery and used CanPatrol™ CTC enrichment technology and in situ hybridization (ISH) to enrich and detect CTCs and CSCs. Nanog expression in all CTCs was also determined. In addition, RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to study the expression of Nanog, E-Cadherin, and N-Cadherin in liver cancer tissues and to conduct clinical correlation studies. RESULTS The numbers of EpCAM mRNA+ CTCs and Nanog mRNA+ CTCs were strongly correlated with postoperative HCC recurrence (CTC number (P = 0.03), the total number of mixed CTCS (P = 0.02), and Nanog> 6.7 (P = 0.001), with Nanog > 6.7 (P = 0.0003, HR = 2.33) being the most crucial marker. There are significant differences in the expression of Nanog on different types of CTC: most Epithelial CTCs do not express Nanog, while most of Mixed CTC and Mesenchymal CTC express Nanog, and their positive rates are 38.7%, 66.7%, and 88.7%, respectively, (P=0.0001). Moreover, both CTC (≤/> 13.3) and Nanog (≤/>6.7) expression were significantly correlated with BCLC stage, vascular invasion, tumor size, and Hbv-DNA (all P < 0.05). In the young group and the old group, patients with higher Nanog expression had a higher recurrence rate. (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The number of Nanog-positive cells showed positive correlation with the poor prognosis of HCC patients. The detection and analysis of CTC markers (EpCAM and CK8, 18, CD45 Vimentin,Twist and 19) and CSCs markers (NANOG) are of great value in the evaluation of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongrong Lei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xishu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, the First Hospital Affiliated to AMU (Southwest Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Heng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuna Fu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yichen Tian
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ludi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, the First Hospital Affiliated to AMU (Southwest Hospital), Chongqing, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, the First Hospital Affiliated to AMU (Southwest Hospital), Chongqing, China
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Ren C, Tang X, Lan H. Comprehensive analysis based on DNA methylation and RNA-seq reveals hypermethylation of the up-regulated WT1 gene with potential mechanisms in PAM50 subtypes of breast cancer. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11377. [PMID: 33987034 PMCID: PMC8103922 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BC), one of the most widespread cancers worldwide, caused the deaths of more than 600,000 women in 2018, accounting for about 15% of all cancer-associated deaths in women that year. In this study, we aimed to discover potential prognostic biomarkers and explore their molecular mechanisms in different BC subtypes using DNA methylation and RNA-seq. Methods We downloaded the DNA methylation datasets and the RNA expression profiles of primary tissues of the four BC molecular subtypes (luminal A, luminal B, basal-like, and HER2-enriched), as well as the survival information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The highly expressed and hypermethylated genes across all the four subtypes were screened. We examined the methylation sites and the downstream co-expressed genes of the selected genes and validated their prognostic value using a different dataset (GSE20685). For selected transcription factors, the downstream genes were predicted based on the Gene Transcription Regulation Database (GTRD). The tumor microenvironment was also evaluated based on the TCGA dataset. Results We found that Wilms tumor gene 1 (WT1), a transcription factor, was highly expressed and hypermethylated in all the four BC subtypes. All the WT1 methylation sites exhibited hypermethylation. The methylation levels of the TSS200 and 1stExon regions were negatively correlated with WT1 expression in two BC subtypes, while that of the gene body region was positively associated with WT1 expression in three BC subtypes. Patients with low WT1 expression had better overall survival (OS). Five genes including COL11A1, GFAP, FGF5, CD300LG, and IGFL2 were predicted as the downstream genes of WT1. Those five genes were dysregulated in the four BC subtypes. Patients with a favorable 6-gene signature (low expression of WT1 and its five predicted downstream genes) exhibited better OS than that with an unfavorable 6-gene signature. We also found a correlation between WT1 and tamoxifen using STITCH. Higher infiltration rates of CD8 T cells, plasma cells, and monocytes were found in the lower quartile WT1 group and the favorable 6-gene signature group. In conclusion, we demonstrated that WT1 is hypermethylated and up-regulated in the four BC molecular subtypes and a 6-gene signature may predict BC prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongyang Ren
- Department of Breast Cancer, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital & Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaojiang Tang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Haitao Lan
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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15
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Zhang R, Tu J, Liu S. Novel molecular regulators of breast cancer stem cell plasticity and heterogeneity. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 82:11-25. [PMID: 33737107 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tumors consist of heterogeneous cell populations, and tumor heterogeneity plays key roles in regulating tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and resistance to anti-tumor therapies. More and more studies suggest that cancer stem cells (CSCs) promote tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance as well as are the major source for heterogeneity of cancer cells. CD24-CD44+ and ALDH+ are the most common markers for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Previous studies showed that different BCSC markers label different BCSC populations, indicating the heterogeneity of BCSCs. Therefore, defining the regulation mechanisms of heterogeneous BCSCs is essential for precisely targeting BCSCs and treating breast cancer. In this review, we summarized the novel regulators existed in BCSCs and their niches for BCSC heterogeneity which has been discovered in recent years, and discussed their regulation mechanisms and the latest corresponding cancer treatments, which will extend our understanding on BCSC heterogeneity and plasticity, and provide better prognosis prediction and more efficient novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Juchuanli Tu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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16
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Uhlorn JA, Husband NA, Romero‐Aleshire MJ, Moffett C, Lindsey ML, Langlais PR, Brooks HL. CD4 + T Cell-Specific Proteomic Pathways Identified in Progression of Hypertension Across Postmenopausal Transition. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e018038. [PMID: 33410333 PMCID: PMC7955317 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Menopause is associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of hypertension in women. Although premenopausal females are protected against T cell-dependent immune activation and development of angiotensin II (Ang II) hypertension, this protection is lost in postmenopausal females. Therefore, the current study hypothesized that specific CD4+ T cell pathways are regulated by sex hormones and Ang II to mediate progression from premenopausal protection to postmenopausal hypertension. Methods and Results Menopause was induced in C57BL/6 mice via repeated 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide injections, while premenopausal females received sesame oil vehicle. A subset of premenopausal mice and all menopausal mice were infused with Ang II for 14 days (Control, Ang II, Meno/Ang II). Proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of CD4+ T cells isolated from spleens were examined. Ang II markedly increased CD4+ T cell protein abundance and phosphorylation associated with DNA and histone methylation in both premenopausal and postmenopausal females. Compared with premenopausal T cells, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice increased T cell phosphorylation of MP2K2, an upstream regulator of ERK, and was associated with upregulated phosphorylation at ERK targeted sites. Additionally, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice decreased T cell phosphorylation of TLN1, a key regulator of IL-2Rα and FOXP3 expression. Conclusions These findings identify novel, distinct T cell pathways that influence T cell-mediated inflammation during postmenopausal hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A. Uhlorn
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | | | | | - Caitlin Moffett
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | - Merry L. Lindsey
- Department of Cellular and Integrative PhysiologyCenter for Heart and Vascular ResearchNebraska‐Western Iowa Health Care SystemUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center and Research ServiceOmahaNE
| | - Paul R. Langlais
- Department of MedicineCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | - Heddwen L. Brooks
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZ
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17
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Mavingire N, Campbell P, Wooten J, Aja J, Davis MB, Loaiza-Perez A, Brantley E. Cancer stem cells: Culprits in endocrine resistance and racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Cancer Lett 2020; 500:64-74. [PMID: 33309858 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) promote endocrine therapy (ET) resistance, also known as endocrine resistance in hormone receptor (HR) positive breast cancer. Endocrine resistance occurs via mechanisms that are not yet fully understood. In vitro, in vivo and clinical data suggest that signaling cascades such as Notch, hypoxia inducible factor (HIF), and integrin/Akt promote BCSC-mediated endocrine resistance. Once HR positive breast cancer patients relapse on ET, targeted therapy agents such as cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors are frequently implemented, though secondary resistance remains a threat. Here, we discuss Notch, HIF, and integrin/Akt pathway regulation of BCSC activity and potential strategies to target these pathways to counteract endocrine resistance. We also discuss a plausible link between elevated BCSC-regulatory gene levels and reduced survival observed among African American women with basal-like breast cancer which lacks HR expression. Should future studies reveal a similar link for patients with luminal breast cancer, then the use of agents that impede BCSC activity could prove highly effective in improving clinical outcomes among African American breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Mavingire
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Petreena Campbell
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Jonathan Wooten
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
| | - Joyce Aja
- National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines.
| | - Melissa B Davis
- Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine-New York Presbyterian Hospital Network, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Andrea Loaiza-Perez
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo (IOAHR), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Área Investigación, Av. San Martin, 5481, C1417 DTB Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Eileen Brantley
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University Health School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, Loma Linda University Health School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
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18
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Epigenetic modifications of c-MYC: Role in cancer cell reprogramming, progression and chemoresistance. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 83:166-176. [PMID: 33220458 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms intimately regulate cancer development and chemoresistance. Different genetic alterations are observed in multiple genes, and most are irreversible. Aside from genetic alterations, epigenetic alterations play a crucial role in cancer. The reversible nature of epigenetic modifications makes them an attractive target for cancer prevention and therapy. Specific epigenetic alteration is also being investigated as a potential biomarker in multiple cancers. c-MYC is one of the most important transcription factors that are centrally implicated in multiple types of cancer cells reprogramming, proliferation, and chemoresistance. c-MYC shows not only genetic alterations but epigenetic changes in multiple cancers. It has been observed that epigenome aberrations can reversibly alter the expression of c-MYC, both transcriptional and translational levels. Understanding the underlying mechanism of the epigenetic alterations of c-MYC, that has its role in multiple levels of cancer pathogenesis, can give a better understanding of various unresolved questions regarding cancer. Recently, some researchers reported that targeting the epigenetic modifiers of c-MYC can successfully inhibit cancer cell proliferation, sensitize the chemoresistant cells, and increase the patient survival rate. As c-MYC is an important transcription factor, epigenetic therapy might be one of the best alternatives for the conventional therapies that assumes the "one-size-fits-all" role. It can also increase the precision of targeting and enhance the effectiveness of treatments among various cancer subtypes. In this review, we highlighted the role of epigenetically modified c-MYC in cancer cell reprogramming, progression, and chemoresistance. We also summarize the potential therapeutic approaches to target these modifications for the prevention of cancer development and chemoresistant phenotypes.
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19
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BeLow M, Osipo C. Notch Signaling in Breast Cancer: A Role in Drug Resistance. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102204. [PMID: 33003540 PMCID: PMC7601482 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease that can be subdivided into unique molecular subtypes based on protein expression of the Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor, and/or the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2. Therapeutic approaches are designed to inhibit these overexpressed receptors either by endocrine therapy, targeted therapies, or combinations with cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, a significant percentage of breast cancers are inherently resistant or acquire resistance to therapies, and mechanisms that promote resistance remain poorly understood. Notch signaling is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway that regulates cell fate, including survival and self-renewal of stem cells, proliferation, or differentiation. Deregulation of Notch signaling promotes resistance to targeted or cytotoxic therapies by enriching of a small population of resistant cells, referred to as breast cancer stem cells, within the bulk tumor; enhancing stem-like features during the process of de-differentiation of tumor cells; or promoting epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Preclinical studies have shown that targeting the Notch pathway can prevent or reverse resistance through reduction or elimination of breast cancer stem cells. However, Notch inhibitors have yet to be clinically approved for the treatment of breast cancer, mainly due to dose-limiting gastrointestinal toxicity. In this review, we discuss potential mechanisms of Notch-mediated resistance in breast cancer cells and breast cancer stem cells, and various methods of targeting Notch through γ-secretase inhibitors, Notch signaling biologics, or transcriptional inhibitors. We also discuss future plans for identification of novel Notch-targeted therapies, in order to reduce toxicity and improve outcomes for women with resistant breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenna BeLow
- Integrated Cell Biology Program, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60513, USA;
| | - Clodia Osipo
- Integrated Cell Biology Program, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60513, USA;
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60513, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-708-327-2372
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20
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Hussien MT, Shaban S, Temerik DF, Helal SR, Mosad E, Elgammal S, Mostafa A, Hassan E, Ibrahim A. Impact of DAXX and ATRX expression on telomere length and prognosis of breast cancer patients. J Egypt Natl Canc Inst 2020; 32:34. [PMID: 32856116 DOI: 10.1186/s43046-020-00045-1] [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: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomere stability is one of the hallmarks of cancer that promotes cellular longevity, the accumulation of genetic alterations, and tumorigenesis. The loss of death domain-associated protein (DAXX) and α-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked protein (ATRX) plays a role in telomere lengthening and stability. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic significance of telomere length (TL) and its association with DAXX and ATRX proteins in breast cancer (BC). Our study used the FISH technique to detect peptide nucleic acid (PNA) in the peripheral blood cells of a cohort of BC patients (n = 220) and a control group of apparently healthy individuals (n = 100). Expression of DAXX and ATRX proteins was evaluated using immunohistochemistry (IHC) in all BC tissues. RESULTS Patients with a shorter TL had worse disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). There were significant associations between shorter TL and advanced disease stages, lymph node metastasis, and positive HER2/neu expression. DAXX protein expression was significantly correlated with TL. Lower DAXX expression was significantly with shorter DFS. CONCLUSION Assessing TL can be used as a worthy prognostic indicator in BC patients. Specifically, short TL had a poor impact on the prognosis of BC patients. Low DAXX expression is associated with poor outcomes in BC. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to reveal the underlying mechanisms of these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa T Hussien
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Shimaa Shaban
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Doaa F Temerik
- Department of Clinical Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Shaaban R Helal
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Eman Mosad
- Department of Clinical Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sahar Elgammal
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Abeer Mostafa
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Eman Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Abeer Ibrahim
- Department of Medical Oncology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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21
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Peiffer DS, Ma E, Wyatt D, Albain KS, Osipo C. DAXX-inducing phytoestrogens inhibit ER+ tumor initiating cells and delay tumor development. NPJ Breast Cancer 2020; 6:37. [PMID: 32864429 PMCID: PMC7429502 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-020-00178-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrence of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast tumors despite curative-intent adjuvant therapy is thought to be due to enrichment of tumor initiating cells (TIC) during endocrine therapy (ET). Recently, it was identified that by antagonizing the ER, ET promotes rapid degradation of the death-associated factor 6 (DAXX) protein, which is necessary and sufficient to potently inhibit TICs. Thus, the goal of the current study was to identify a DAXX-inducing agent to inhibit TICs and prevent proliferation of the tumor. Phytoestrogens (naringenin, resveratrol, genistein, apigenin, and quercetin) were screened for DAXX protein expression, anti-TIC and anti-proliferative efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Specific DAXX-inducing phytoestrogens were tested to assess selectivity towards ERα and/or ERβ. Results showed that phytoestrogens tested induced DAXX protein expression and inhibited survival of TICs from ER+ MCF-7 and T47D cells. Only naringenin, resveratrol, and quercetin did not stimulate total cell proliferation. Naringenin, resveratrol, but not quercetin inhibited survival of TICs in vitro and in vivo in a DAXX-dependent manner. Naringenin-induced DAXX protein expression and inhibition of TICs seemed to be more selective towards ERβ while resveratrol was more selective through ERα. Naringenin or resveratrol inhibited the rate of tumor initiation and rate of tumor growth in a DAXX-dependent manner. These results suggest that a therapeutic approach using a phytoestrogen to induce DAXX protein expression could potently inhibit TICs within a tumor to delay or prevent tumor initiation. Therefore, a DAXX-promoting phytoestrogen should be explored for prevention of tumor progression in advanced disease and relapse in the adjuvant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Peiffer
- MD/PhD and Integrated Cell Biology Programs, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL United States
| | - Emily Ma
- MD/PhD and Integrated Cell Biology Programs, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL United States
| | - Debra Wyatt
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL United States
| | - Kathy S. Albain
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Maywood, IL United States
| | - Clodia Osipo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL United States
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Shan Z, Liu L, Shen J, Hao H, Zhang H, Lei L, Liu F, Wang Z. Enhanced UV Resistance Role of Death Domain-Associated Protein in Human MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells by Regulation of G2 DNA Damage Checkpoint. Cell Transplant 2020; 29:963689720920277. [PMID: 32662684 PMCID: PMC7586275 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720920277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Death domain–associated protein (DAXX) is a multifunctional nuclear protein involved in apoptosis, transcription, deoxyribonucleic acid damage response, and tumorigenesis. However, the role of DAXX in breast cancer development and progression remains elusive. In this study, we examined the expression patterns and function of DAXX in human breast cancer samples and cell lines. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze the expression and localization patterns of DAXX. Additionally, we investigated whether DAXX played an intrinsic role in the cellular response to damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells (isolated at M D Anderson from a pleural effusion of a patient with invasive ductal carcinoma). Results: Our results showed that nucleus size, chromatin organization, and DAXX localization were altered in breast cancer tissues compared with those in control tissues. Compared with cytoplasmic and nuclear expression in benign breast tissues, DAXX was colocalized with promyelocytic leukemia in nuclei with a granular distribution. Endogenous DAXX messenger ribonucleic acid levels were upregulated upon UV radiation in MDA-MB-231 cells. DAXX-deficient cells tended to be more sensitive to irradiation than control cells. Conversely, DAXX-overexpressing cells exhibited reduced phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ-H2AX) accumulation, increased cell survival, and resistance to UV-induced damage. The protective effects of DAXX may be related to the activation of the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM)-checkpoint kinase 2 (ATM-CHK2)-cell division cycle 25c (CDC25c) signaling pathways in Gap2/Mitosis (G2/M) checkpoint and ultimately cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. Conclusions: Taken together, these results suggested that DAXX may be an essential component in breast cancer initiation, malignant progression, and radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyan Shan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Both the authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Li Liu
- Institute of Life Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Both the authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Jingling Shen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Haiyue Hao
- Department of Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Honghong Zhang
- Blood Transfusion Department of Sunshine Union Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhipeng Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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23
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MicroRNAs and Their Influence on the ZEB Family: Mechanistic Aspects and Therapeutic Applications in Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071040. [PMID: 32664703 PMCID: PMC7407563 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular signaling pathways involved in cancer have been intensively studied due to their crucial role in cancer cell growth and dissemination. Among them, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox-1 (ZEB1) and -2 (ZEB2) are molecules that play vital roles in signaling pathways to ensure the survival of tumor cells, particularly through enhancing cell proliferation, promoting cell migration and invasion, and triggering drug resistance. Importantly, ZEB proteins are regulated by microRNAs (miRs). In this review, we demonstrate the impact that miRs have on cancer therapy, through their targeting of ZEB proteins. MiRs are able to act as onco-suppressor factors and inhibit the malignancy of tumor cells through ZEB1/2 down-regulation. This can lead to an inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism, therefore reducing metastasis. Additionally, miRs are able to inhibit ZEB1/2-mediated drug resistance and immunosuppression. Additionally, we explore the upstream modulators of miRs such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), as these regulators can influence the inhibitory effect of miRs on ZEB proteins and cancer progression.
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24
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Chen C, Sun X, Xie W, Chen S, Hu Y, Xing D, Xu J, Chen X, Zhao Z, Han Z, Xue X, Shen X, Lin K. Opposing biological functions of the cytoplasm and nucleus DAXX modified by SUMO-2/3 in gastric cancer. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:514. [PMID: 32641734 PMCID: PMC7343808 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2718-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Death domain-associated protein (DAXX) is a complex biological multifunctional protein and is involved in the tumorigenesis and progression of multiple cancers. The accumulation of DAXX in the nucleus is a common phenomenon in tumor cells. However, altering the subcellular localizations of DAXX results in different biological functions, and we also found that its nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio (NCR) was associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we investigated the effect of cytoplasmic and nuclear DAXX (cDAXX and nDAXX) in GC and the underlying mechanisms. Immunohistochemical detection performed in 323 GC tissues reveled that cDAXX was associated with a better survival, while high nDAXX expression suggested a poorer prognosis outcome. Upregulation of DAXX in the cytoplasm inhibited cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, whereas downregulation of DAXX in the nucleus displayed opposite effects. Moreover, Transwell assays revealed that DAXX enhanced GC cell migration and invasion. Analysis from the Gene Expression Profile Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database showed that the expression of DAXX was significantly associated with SUMO-2/3 in GC tissues. Co-immunoprecipitation combined with immunofluorescence analysis indicated that DAXX interacted directly with SUMO-2/3. Subsequently, down-regulating the expression of SUMO-2/3 resulted in altered subcellular localization of DAXX. Bioinformatics analysis showed that RanBP2 may act as SUMO E3 ligase to promote nuclear-plasma transport via combining with RanGAP1. Taken together, our results indicated that DAXX plays opposing roles in GC and suggest a new model whereby cDAXX, nDAXX, and SUMO-2/3 form a molecular network that regulates the subcellular localization of DAXX and thereby modulates its opposing biological effects. Thus, our findings provide a foundation for future studies of DAXX as a novel therapeutic target for patients with GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenbin Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Xiangwei Sun
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Wangkai Xie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Sian Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Yuanbo Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Dong Xing
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Jianfeng Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Zhiguang Zhao
- Department of Pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China
| | - Xiangyang Xue
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China.
| | - Xian Shen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China.
| | - Kezhi Lin
- Morphology Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, P.R. China.
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Zhu HZ, Fang CJ, Guo Y, Zhang Q, Huang LM, Qiu D, Chen GP, Pang XF, Hu JJ, Sun JG, Chen ZT. Detection of miR-155-5p and imaging lung cancer for early diagnosis: in vitro and in vivo study. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2020; 146:1941-1951. [PMID: 32447486 PMCID: PMC7324423 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-020-03246-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Currently, the routine screening program has insufficient capacity for the early diagnosis of lung cancer. Therefore, a type of chitosan-molecular beacon (CS-MB) probe was developed to recognize the miR-155-5p and image the lung cancer cells for the early diagnosis. Methods Based on the molecular beacon (MB) technology and nanotechnology, the CS-MB probe was synthesized self-assembly. There are four types of cells—three kinds of animal models and one type of histopathological sections of human lung cancer were utilized as models, including A549, SPC-A1, H446 lung cancer cells, tumor-initiating cells (TICs), subcutaneous and lung xenografts mice, and lox-stop-lox(LSL) K-ras G12D transgenic mice. The transgenic mice dynamically displayed the process from normal lung tissues to atypical hyperplasia, adenoma, carcinoma in situ, and adenocarcinoma. The different miR-155-5p expression levels in these cells and models were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The CS-MB probe was used to recognize the miR-155-5p and image the lung cancer cells by confocal microscopy in vitro and by living imaging system in vivo. Results The CS-MB probe could be used to recognize the miR-155-5p and image the lung cancer cells significantly in these cells and models. The fluorescence intensity trends detected by the CS-MB probe were similar to the expression levels trends of miR-155 tested by qRT-PCR. Moreover, the fluorescence intensity showed an increasing trend with the tumor progression in the transgenic mice model, and the occurrence and development of lung cancer were dynamically monitored by the differen fluorescence intensity. In addition, the miR-155-5p in human lung cancer tissues could be detected by the miR-155-5p MB. Conclusion Both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that the CS-MB probe could be utilized to recognize the miR-155-5p and image the lung cancer cells. It provided a novel experimental and theoretical basis for the early diagnosis of the disease. Also, the histopathological sections of human lung cancer research laid the foundation for subsequent preclinical studies. In addition, different MBs could be designed to detect other miRNAs for the early diagnosis of other tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Zhen Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Chun-Ju Fang
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Basic Knowledge, Guiyang Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, 400037, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Li-Min Huang
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Dong Qiu
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Guang-Peng Chen
- Cancer Institute of PLA, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Xiu-Feng Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Jian-Jun Hu
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Jian-Guo Sun
- Cancer Institute of PLA, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
| | - Zheng-Tang Chen
- Cancer Institute of PLA, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
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Wu C, Ding H, Wang S, Li Y, Liu SB, Wang X, Zheng J, Xue T, Amin HM, Song YH, Zhou J. DAXX inhibits cancer stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer. Br J Cancer 2020; 122:1477-1485. [PMID: 32203224 PMCID: PMC7217831 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0800-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DAXX is a transcription repressor that has been implicated in several types of cancers, but its role in the development of gastric cancer remains unknown. METHODS We analysed the expression of DAXX in 83 pairs of gastric cancer samples, including neoplastic and adjacent tissues, and correlated the expression levels with clinical stages. We also investigated the molecular mechanisms by which DAXX downregulation promotes cancer growth using both in vitro and in vivo models. RESULTS DAXX was downregulated in advanced gastric cancer samples. The expression of DAXX inversely correlates with that of cancer stem cell markers CD44 and Oct4 in gastric cancer lines. DAXX overexpression in gastric cancer cells inhibited migration, invasion and epithelial- mesenchymal transition (EMT). The inhibition of EMT was achieved through the repression of SNAI3, a key inducer of EMT, by recruiting HDAC-1 into the nucleus. Using a xenograft mouse model, we demonstrated that the MKN45 cells formed smaller tumours when DAXX was overexpressed. Wild-type AGS cells were not able to form tumours in nude mice, but in contrast, formed visible tumours when DAXX was silenced in the cells. CONCLUSION We for the first time demonstrated that DAXX functions as a tumour suppressor in gastric cancer by inhibiting stem cell growth and EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofan Wu
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hui Ding
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shuochen Wang
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yangxin Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery & Institute of Cardiovascular Science, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215123, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Song-Bai Liu
- Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Biotechnology for Laboratory Medicine, Suzhou, 215009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Biotechnology for Laboratory Medicine, Suzhou, 215009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiqing Zheng
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ting Xue
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hesham M Amin
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yao-Hua Song
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China.
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P. R. China.
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Testa U, Castelli G, Pelosi E. Breast Cancer: A Molecularly Heterogenous Disease Needing Subtype-Specific Treatments. Med Sci (Basel) 2020; 8:E18. [PMID: 32210163 PMCID: PMC7151639 DOI: 10.3390/medsci8010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women. There were over two-million new cases in world in 2018. It is the second leading cause of death from cancer in western countries. At the molecular level, breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease, which is characterized by high genomic instability evidenced by somatic gene mutations, copy number alterations, and chromosome structural rearrangements. The genomic instability is caused by defects in DNA damage repair, transcription, DNA replication, telomere maintenance and mitotic chromosome segregation. According to molecular features, breast cancers are subdivided in subtypes, according to activation of hormone receptors (estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor), of human epidermal growth factors receptor 2 (HER2), and or BRCA mutations. In-depth analyses of the molecular features of primary and metastatic breast cancer have shown the great heterogeneity of genetic alterations and their clonal evolution during disease development. These studies have contributed to identify a repertoire of numerous disease-causing genes that are altered through different mutational processes. While early-stage breast cancer is a curable disease in about 70% of patients, advanced breast cancer is largely incurable. However, molecular studies have contributed to develop new therapeutic approaches targeting HER2, CDK4/6, PI3K, or involving poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for BRCA mutation carriers and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Testa
- Department of Oncology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (E.P.)
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Breast Cancer Stem Cells as Drivers of Tumor Chemoresistance, Dormancy and Relapse: New Challenges and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101569. [PMID: 31619007 PMCID: PMC6826533 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women worldwide. Therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat metastatic disease are still inadequate although great progress has been made in treating early-stage breast cancer. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that are endowed with high plasticity and self-renewal properties have been shown to play a key role in breast cancer development, progression, and metastasis. A subpopulation of CSCs that combines tumor-initiating capacity and a dormant/quiescent/slow cycling status is present throughout the clinical history of breast cancer patients. Dormant/quiescent/slow cycling CSCs are a key component of tumor heterogeneity and they are responsible for chemoresistance, tumor migration, and metastatic dormancy, defined as the ability of CSCs to survive in target organs and generate metastasis up to two decades after diagnosis. Understanding the strategies that are used by CSCs to resist conventional and targeted therapies, to interact with their niche, to escape immune surveillance, and finally to awaken from dormancy is of key importance to prevent and treat metastatic cancer. This review summarizes the current understanding of mechanisms involved in CSCs chemoresistance, dissemination, and metastasis in breast cancer, with a particular focus on dormant cells. Finally, we discuss how advancements in the detection, molecular understanding, and targeting of dormant CSCs will likely open new therapeutic avenues for breast cancer treatment.
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