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Colon T, Kou Z, Choi BH, Tran F, Dai W. Enzyme-independent role of EZH2 in regulating cell cycle progression via the SKP2-KIP/CIP pathway. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13389. [PMID: 38862595 PMCID: PMC11166936 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64338-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
While EZH2 enzymatic activity is well-known, emerging evidence suggests that EZH2 can exert functions in a methyltransferase-independent manner. In this study, we have uncovered a novel mechanism by which EZH2 positively regulates the expression of SKP2, a critical protein involved in cell cycle progression. We demonstrate that depletion of EZH2 significantly reduces SKP2 protein levels in several cell types, while treatment with EPZ-6438, an EZH2 enzymatic inhibitor, has no effect on SKP2 protein levels. Consistently, EZH2 depletion leads to cell cycle arrest, accompanied by elevated expression of CIP/KIP family proteins, including p21, p27, and p57, whereas EPZ-6438 treatment does not modulate their levels. We also provide evidence that EZH2 knockdown, but not enzymatic inhibition, suppresses SKP2 mRNA expression, underscoring the transcriptional regulation of SKP2 by EZH2 in a methyltransferase-independent manner. Supporting this, analysis of the Cancer Genome Atlas database reveals a close association between EZH2 and SKP2 expression in human malignancies. Moreover, EZH2 depletion but not enzymatic inhibition positively regulates the expression of major epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulators, such as ZEB1 and SNAIL1, in transformed cells. Our findings shed light on a novel mechanism by which EZH2 exerts regulatory effects on cell proliferation and differentiation through its methyltransferase-independent function, specifically by modulating SKP2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Colon
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Ziyue Kou
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Byeong Hyeok Choi
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Franklin Tran
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Wei Dai
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA.
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Bao Q, Kumar A, Wu D, Zhou J. Targeting EED as a key PRC2 complex mediator toward novel epigenetic therapeutics. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:103986. [PMID: 38642703 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.103986] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
EED within the PRC2 complex is crucial for chromatin regulation particularly in tumor development, making its inhibition a promising epigenetic therapeutic strategy. Significant advancement in PRC2 inhibitor development has been achieved with an approved EZH2 inhibitor in the market and with others in the clinical trials. However, current EZH2 inhibitors are limited to specific blood cancers and encounter therapeutic resistance. EED stabilizes PRC2 complex and enhances its activity through unique allosteric mechanisms, thereby acting as both a scaffold protein and a recognizer of H3K27me3 making it an attractive drug target. This review provides an overview of epigenetic therapeutic strategies targeting EED, including allosteric inhibitors, PPI inhibitors, and PROTACs, together with brief discussions on the relevant challenges, opportunities, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qichao Bao
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Anil Kumar
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Daqing Wu
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development and Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA
| | - Jia Zhou
- Chemical Biology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
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3
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Wang H, Wang J, Ran Q, Leng Y, Liu T, Xiong Z, Zou D, Yang W. Identification and functional analysis of the hub Ferroptosis-Related gene EZH2 in diabetic kidney disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112138. [PMID: 38678670 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112138] [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: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common microvascular complication and one of the main causes of death in diabetes. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent mode of cell death characterized by lipid ROS accumulation, was found to be associated with a number of diseases and has great potential for kidney diseases. It has great value to identify potential ferroptosis-related genes and their biological mechanisms in DKD. METHODS We obtained the GSE30122 dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and ferroptosis-related genes from the Ferrdb database. After differential expression analysis, and three machine learning algorithms, the hub ferroptosis-related gene EZH2 was identified. In order to investigate the function of EZH2, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) and single cell analysis were conducted. The expression of EZH2 was validated in DKD patients, HK-2 cell models and DKD mouse models. EZH2 knockdown HK-2 cells and HK-2 cells treated with GSK126 were performed to verify whether EZH2 affected ferroptosis in DKD. CHIP assay was used to detect whether EZH2 regulated ferroptosis by suppressing SLC7A11. Molecular docking was performed to explore EZH2 and four traditional Chinese medicine (Sennoside A, Berberine, Umbelliferone, Platycodin D) related to ferroptosis in DKD treatment. RESULTS According to the GSE30122 dataset in GEO and ferroptosis-related genes from the Ferrb database, we obtained the hub ferroptosis-related gene EZH2 in DKD via diversified machine learning methods. The increasing of EZH2 expression was shown in single cell analysis, DKD patients, DKD mouse models and high glucose induced DKD cell models. Further study showed that EZH2 knockdown and inhibition can alleviate HG-induced ferroptosis in vitro. CHIP assay showed EZH2-mediated epigenetic silencing regulated the expression of SLC7A11. Molecular docking results showed that EZH2 had strong binding stability with Sennoside A, Berberine, Umbelliferone, and Platycodin D. CONCLUSION Overall, our data shouwed that histone H3K27 methyltransferase EZH2 could regulate the renal tubular epithelial cell ferroptosis by suppressing SLC7A11 in DKD, which may serve as a credible reliable indicator for diagnosing DKD and a potential target for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China; Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Jiajia Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Qingsen Ran
- Shenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital (Shenzhen Pingshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Leng
- The First Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Tiejun Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhuang Xiong
- The First Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Dixin Zou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Weipeng Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
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Yin N, Li X, Zhang X, Xue S, Cao Y, Niedermann G, Lu Y, Xue J. Development of pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer therapeutics: current mechanistic studies and clinical opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:126. [PMID: 38773064 PMCID: PMC11109181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01826-z] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy represented by anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 inhibitors has revolutionized cancer treatment, but challenges related to resistance and toxicity still remain. Due to the advancement of immuno-oncology, an increasing number of novel immunoregulatory targets and mechanisms are being revealed, with relevant therapies promising to improve clinical immunotherapy in the foreseeable future. Therefore, comprehending the larger picture is important. In this review, we analyze and summarize the current landscape of preclinical and translational mechanistic research, drug development, and clinical trials that brought about next-generation pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer agents and drug candidates beyond classical immune checkpoint inhibitors. Along with further clarification of cancer immunobiology and advances in antibody engineering, agents targeting additional inhibitory immune checkpoints, including LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT, CD47, and B7 family members are becoming an important part of cancer immunotherapy research and discovery, as are structurally and functionally optimized novel anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 agents and agonists of co-stimulatory molecules of T cells. Exemplified by bispecific T cell engagers, newly emerging bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies targeting immunoregulatory molecules can provide considerable clinical benefits. Next-generation agents also include immune epigenetic drugs and cytokine-based therapeutics. Cell therapies, cancer vaccines, and oncolytic viruses are not covered in this review. This comprehensive review might aid in further development and the fastest possible clinical adoption of effective immuno-oncology modalities for the benefit of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanhao Yin
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xintong Li
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xuanwei Zhang
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shaolong Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
- Institute of Disaster Medicine & Institute of Emergency Medicine, Sichuan University, No. 17, Gaopeng Avenue, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Gabriele Niedermann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site DKTK-Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Strasse 3, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - You Lu
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Jianxin Xue
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
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Terrazzan A, Vanini R, Ancona P, Bianchi N, Taccioli C, Aguiari G. State-of-the-art in transposable element modulation affected by drugs in malignant prostatic cancer cells. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30557. [PMID: 38501160 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30557] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Over recent years, the investigation of transposable elements (TEs) has granted researchers a deeper comprehension of their characteristics and functions, particularly regarding their significance in the mechanisms contributing to cancer development. This manuscript focuses on prostate carcinoma cell lines and offers a comprehensive review intended to scrutinize the associations and interactions between TEs and genes, as well as their response to treatment using various chemical drugs, emphasizing their involvement in cancer progression. We assembled a compendium of articles retrieved from the PubMed database to construct networks demonstrating correlations with genes and pharmaceuticals. In doing so, we linked the transposition of certain TE types to the expression of specific transcripts directly implicated in carcinogenesis. Additionally, we underline that treatment employing different drugs revealed unique patterns of TE reactivation. Our hypothesis gathers the current understanding and guides research toward evidence-based investigations, emphasizing the association between antiviral drugs, chemotherapy, and the reduced expression of TEs in patients affected by prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Terrazzan
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Advanced Therapy Technologies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Vanini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pietro Ancona
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Bianchi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristian Taccioli
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health (MAPS), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gianluca Aguiari
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Xu W, Li H, Wang Z, Kang Y, Zheng L, Liu Y, Xu P, Li Z. LINC00152: Potential driver oncogene in pan-cancer. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1851. [PMID: 38702938 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are a class of non-coding RNAs greater than 200 bp in length with limited peptide-coding function. The transcription of LINC00152 is derived from chromosome 2p11.2. Many studies prove that LINC00152 influences the progression of various tumors via promoting the tumor cells malignant phenotype, chemoresistance, and immune escape. LINC00152 is regulated by multiple transcription factors and DNA hypomethylation. In addition, LINC00152 participates in the regulation of complex molecular signaling networks through epigenetic regulation, protein interactions, and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA). Here, we provide a systematic review of the upstream regulatory factors of LINC00152 expression level in different types of tumors. In addition, we revisit the main functions and mechanisms of LINC00152 as driver oncogene and biomarker in pan-cancer. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huiting Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyao Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Kang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Luojie Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yiping Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zheng Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Chinese Ministry of Health, Department of oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Mi L, Xing Z, Zhang Y, He T, Su A, Wei T, Li Z, Wu W. Unveiling Gambogenic Acid as a Promising Antitumor Compound: A Review. PLANTA MEDICA 2024; 90:353-367. [PMID: 38295847 DOI: 10.1055/a-2258-6663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Gambogenic acid is a derivative of gambogic acid, a polyprenylated xanthone isolated from Garcinia hanburyi. Compared with the more widely studied gambogic acid, gambogenic acid has demonstrated advantages such as a more potent antitumor effect and less systemic toxicity than gambogic acid according to early investigations. Therefore, the present review summarizes the effectiveness and mechanisms of gambogenic acid in different cancers and highlights the mechanisms of action. In addition, drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability of gambogenic acid and its pharmacokinetic profile are included. Gambogenic acid has been applied to treat a wide range of cancers, such as lung, liver, colorectal, breast, gastric, bladder, and prostate cancers. Gambogenic acid exerts its antitumor effects as a novel class of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitors. It prevents cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis and controlling the cell cycle as well as autophagy. Gambogenic acid also hinders tumor cell invasion and metastasis by downregulating metastasis-related proteins. Moreover, gambogenic acid increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and has shown effects on multidrug resistance in malignancy. This review adds insights for the prevention and treatment of cancers using gambogenic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Mi
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhichao Xing
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting He
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Anping Su
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenshuang Wu
- Division of Thyroid Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Zhang J, Miao N, Lao L, Deng W, Wang J, Zhu X, Huang Y, Lin H, Zeng W, Zhang W, Tan L, Yuan X, Zeng X, Zhu J, Chen X, Song E, Yang L, Nie Y, Huang D. Activation of Bivalent Gene POU4F1 Promotes and Maintains Basal-like Breast Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307660. [PMID: 38491910 PMCID: PMC11132042 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is the most aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer with worse prognosis and fewer treatment options. The underlying mechanisms upon BLBC transcriptional dysregulation and its upstream transcription factors (TFs) remain unclear. Here, among the hyperactive candidate TFs of BLBC identified by bioinformatic analysis, POU4F1 is uniquely upregulated in BLBC and is associated with poor prognosis. POU4F1 is necessary for the tumor growth and malignant phenotypes of BLBC through regulating G1/S transition by direct binding at the promoter of CDK2 and CCND1. More importantly, POU4F1 maintains BLBC identity by repressing ERα expression through CDK2-mediated EZH2 phosphorylation and subsequent H3K27me3 modification in ESR1 promoter. Knocking out POU4F1 in BLBC cells reactivates functional ERα expression, rendering BLBC sensitive to tamoxifen treatment. In-depth epigenetic analysis reveals that the subtype-specific re-configuration and activation of the bivalent chromatin in the POU4F1 promoter contributes to its unique expression in BLBC, which is maintained by DNA demethylase TET1. Together, these results reveal a subtype-specific epigenetically activated TF with critical role in promoting and maintaining BLBC, suggesting that POU4F1 is a potential therapeutic target for BLBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Nanyan Miao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Department of Plastic SurgerySun Yat‐Sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Liyan Lao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Wen Deng
- Center for BiotherapySun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Jiawen Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Yongsheng Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Cellular & Molecular Diagnostics CenterSun Yat‐Sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Huayue Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Wenfeng Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Luyuan Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xiaoqing Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xin Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Jingkun Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xueman Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Erwei Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Linbin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Yan Nie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Di Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineBreast Tumor CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
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9
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Matsui H, Hirata M. Evaluation of the pathogenic potential of germline DDX41 variants in hematopoietic neoplasms using the ACMG/AMP guidelines. Int J Hematol 2024; 119:552-563. [PMID: 38492200 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-024-03728-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Clinical use of gene panel testing for hematopoietic neoplasms in areas, such as diagnosis, prognosis prediction, and exploration of treatment options, has increased in recent years. The keys to interpreting gene variants detected in gene panel testing are to distinguish between germline and somatic variants and accurately determine whether the detected variants are pathogenic. If a variant is suspected to be a pathogenic germline variant, it is essential to confirm its consistency with the disease phenotype and gather a thorough family history. Donor eligibility must also be considered, especially if the patient's variant is also detected in the expected donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, determining the pathogenicity of gene variants is often complicated, given the current limited availability of databases covering germline variants of hematopoietic neoplasms. This means that hematologists will frequently need to interpret gene variants themselves. Here, we outline how to assess the pathogenicity of germline variants according to criteria from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology standards and guidelines for the interpretation of variants using DDX41, a gene recently shown to be closely associated with myeloid neoplasms with a germline predisposition, as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotaka Matsui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.
- Department of Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Makoto Hirata
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Services, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Ye Z, Li Q, Hu Y, Hu H, Xu J, Guo M, Zhang W, Lou X, Wang Y, Gao H, Jing D, Fan G, Qin Y, Zhang Y, Chen X, Chen J, Xu X, Yu X, Liu M, Ji S. The stromal microenvironment endows pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors with spatially specific invasive and metastatic phenotypes. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216769. [PMID: 38438098 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216769] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an important role in a variety of cancers. However, the role of tumor stroma in nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs) is often neglected. Profiling the heterogeneity of CAFs can reveal the causes of malignant phenotypes in NF-PanNETs. Here, we found that patients with high stromal proportion had poor prognosis, especially for that with infiltrating stroma (stroma and tumor cells that presented an infiltrative growth pattern and no regular boundary). In addition, myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs), characterized by FAP+ and α-SMAhigh, were spatially closer to tumor cells and promoted the EMT and tumor growth. Intriguingly, only tumor cells which were spatially closer to myCAFs underwent EMT. We further elucidated that myCAFs stimulate TGF-β expression in nearby tumor cells. Then, TGF-β promoted the EMT in adjacent tumor cells and promoted the expression of myCAFs marker genes in tumor cells, resulting in distant metastasis. Our results indicate that myCAFs cause spatial heterogeneity of EMT, which accounts for liver metastasis of NF-PanNETs. The findings of this study might provide possible targets for the prevention of liver metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng Ye
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistr.15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Yuheng Hu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Haifeng Hu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Junfeng Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Muzi Guo
- Department of Medicine, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Wuhu Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xin Lou
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Heli Gao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Desheng Jing
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guixiong Fan
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yi Qin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Xuemin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaowu Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Mingyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Shunrong Ji
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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11
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Weidle UH, Birzele F. Deregulated circRNAs in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer With Activity in Preclinical In Vivo Models: Identification of Targets and New Modalities for Therapeutic Intervention. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2024; 21:213-237. [PMID: 38670587 PMCID: PMC11059596 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20442] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is associated with a dismal prognosis due to development of resistance to chemotherapy and metastasis in the peritoneal cavity and distant organs. In order to identify new targets and treatment modalities we searched the literature for up- and and down-regulated circRNAs with efficacy in preclinical EOC-related in vivo systems. Our search yielded circRNAs falling into the following categories: cisplatin and paclitaxel resistance, transmembrane receptors, secreted factors, transcription factors, RNA splicing and processing factors, RAS pathway-related components, proteolysis and cell-cycle regulation, signaling-related proteins, and circRNAs regulating proteins in additional categories. These findings can be potentially translated by validation and manipulation of the corresponding targets, inhibition of circRNAs with antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNAs (siRNA) or small hairpin RNA (shRNA) or by reconstituting their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany;
| | - Fabian Birzele
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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12
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Zhao R, Cheng S, Bai X, Zhang D, Fang H, Che W, Zhang W, Zhou Y, Duan W, Liang Q, Xiao L, Nie G, Hou Y. Development of an efficient liposomal DOX delivery formulation for HCC therapy by targeting CK2α. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400050. [PMID: 38651271 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400050] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a digestive tract cancer with high mortality and poor prognosis, especially in China. Current chemotherapeutic drugs lead to poor prognosis, low efficacy, and high side effects due to weak targeting specificity and rapidly formed multidrug resistance (MDR). Based on the previous studies on the doxorubicin (DOX) formulation for cancer targeting therapy, we developed a novel DOX delivery formulation for the targeting chemotherapy of HCC and DOX resistant HCC. HCSP4 was previously screened and casein kinase 2α (CK2α) was predicted as its specific target on HCC cells in our lab. In the study, miR125a-5p was firstly predicted as an MDR inhibiting miRNA, and then CK2α was validated as the target of HCSP4 and miR125a-5p using CK2α-/-HepG2 cells. Based on the above, an HCC targeting and MDR inhibiting DOX delivery liposomal formulation, HCSP4/Lipo-DOX/miR125a-5p was synthesized and tested for its HCC therapeutic efficacy in vitro. The results showed that the liposomal DOX delivery formulation targeted to HCC cells specifically and sensitively, and presented the satisfied therapeutic efficacy for HCC, particularly for DOX resistant HCC. The potential therapeutic mechanism of the DOX delivery formulation was explored, and the formulation inhibited the expression of MDR-relevant genes including ATP-binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1, also known as P-glycoprotein), ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 5 (ABCC5), enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), and ATPase Na+/K+ transporting subunit beta 1 (ATP1B1). Our study presents a novel targeting chemotherapeutic drug formulation for the therapy of HCC, especially for drug resistant HCC, although it is primarily and needs further study in vivo, but provided a new strategy for the development of novel anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixia Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sinan Cheng
- Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Xue Bai
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Danying Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongming Fang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wanlin Che
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenxuan Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yujuan Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Duan
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Qiumin Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agricultural Resource Chemistry and Biotechnology, Yulin, Guangxi, China
| | - Li Xiao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guochao Nie
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Agricultural Resource Chemistry and Biotechnology, Yulin, Guangxi, China
| | - Yingchun Hou
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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13
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Zhang M, Wu K, Zhang W, Lin X, Cao Q, Zhang L, Chen K. The therapeutic potential of targeting the CHD protein family in cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 256:108610. [PMID: 38367868 PMCID: PMC10942663 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108610] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that epigenetic events undergo deregulation in various cancer types, playing crucial roles in tumor development. Among the epigenetic factors involved in the epigenetic remodeling of chromatin, the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein (CHD) family frequently exhibits gain- or loss-of-function mutations in distinct cancer types. Therefore, targeting CHD remodelers holds the potential for antitumor treatment. In this review, we discuss epigenetic regulations of cancer development. We emphasize proteins in the CHD family, delving deeply into the intricate mechanisms governing their functions. Additionally, we provide an overview of current therapeutic strategies targeting CHD family members in preclinical trials. We further discuss the promising approaches that have demonstrated early signs of success in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Kaiyuan Wu
- Basic and Translational Research Division, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Weijie Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xia Lin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Qi Cao
- Department of Urology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Lili Zhang
- Basic and Translational Research Division, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Prostate Cancer Program, Dana-Farber and Harvard Cancer Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kaifu Chen
- Basic and Translational Research Division, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Prostate Cancer Program, Dana-Farber and Harvard Cancer Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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14
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Yu H, Xu X, Zhu L, Chen S, He J. MELK aggravates lung adenocarcinoma by regulating EZH2 ubiquitination and H3K27me3 histone methylation of LATS2. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18216. [PMID: 38652219 PMCID: PMC11037405 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18216] [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: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
We tried to elucidate the possible roles of maternal embryonic leucine pull chain kinase (MELK) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) growth and metastasis. Differentially expressed genes in LUAD samples were analysed by the GEPIA database. Clinical tissue samples and cells were collected for MELK, EZH2 and LATS2 expression determination. Co-IP assay was used to verify the interaction between EZH2 and MELK; CHX tracking assay and ubiquitination assay detected the degradation of MELK on EZH2 ubiquitination. ChIP assay detected the enrichment of EZH2 and H3K27me3 on the LATS2 promoter region. LUAD cells were selected for in vitro validation, and the tumorigenic ability of LUAD cells was also observed in a transplantation tumour model of LUAD nude mice. MELK and EZH2 were highly expressed in LUAD samples, while LATS2 was lowly expressed. MELK interacted with EZH2 to inhibit its ubiquitination degradation; EZH2 elevated H3K27me3 modification in the LATS2 promoter to lower LATS2 expression. Silencing MELK or EZH2 or overexpressing LATS2 restrained LUAD cell proliferation and invasion, and facilitated their apoptosis. Silencing MELK or EZH2 or overexpressing LATS2 suppressed tumour formation in nude mice. This study demonstrated that MELK aggravated LUAD by upregulating EZH2 and downregulating LATS2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Jiangsu UniversityZhenjiangChina
| | - Xianrong Xu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Jiangsu UniversityZhenjiangChina
| | - Lirong Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineAffiliated Hospital of Jiangsu UniversityZhenjiangChina
| | - Shengjie Chen
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Jiangsu UniversityZhenjiangChina
| | - Jincheng He
- Surgical DepartmentDanyang Maternal and Child Health HospitalDanyangChina
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15
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Chomiak AA, Tiedemann RL, Liu Y, Kong X, Cui Y, Wiseman AK, Thurlow KE, Cornett EM, Topper MJ, Baylin SB, Rothbart SB. Select EZH2 inhibitors enhance viral mimicry effects of DNMT inhibition through a mechanism involving NFAT:AP-1 signaling. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk4423. [PMID: 38536911 PMCID: PMC10971413 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk4423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi) efficacy in solid tumors is limited. Colon cancer cells exposed to DNMTi accumulate lysine-27 trimethylation on histone H3 (H3K27me3). We propose this Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2)-dependent repressive modification limits DNMTi efficacy. Here, we show that low-dose DNMTi treatment sensitizes colon cancer cells to select EZH2 inhibitors (EZH2is). Integrative epigenomic analysis reveals that DNMTi-induced H3K27me3 accumulates at genomic regions poised with EZH2. Notably, combined EZH2i and DNMTi alters the epigenomic landscape to transcriptionally up-regulate the calcium-induced nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT):activating protein 1 (AP-1) signaling pathway. Blocking this pathway limits transcriptional activating effects of these drugs, including transposable element and innate immune response gene expression involved in viral defense. Analysis of primary human colon cancer specimens reveals positive correlations between DNMTi-, innate immune response-, and calcium signaling-associated transcription profiles. Collectively, we show that compensatory EZH2 activity limits DNMTi efficacy in colon cancer and link NFAT:AP-1 signaling to epigenetic therapy-induced viral mimicry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison A. Chomiak
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | | | - Yanqing Liu
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Xiangqian Kong
- Department of Oncology, the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Ying Cui
- Department of Oncology, the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Ashley K. Wiseman
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Kate E. Thurlow
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Evan M. Cornett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Michael J. Topper
- Department of Oncology, the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Stephen B. Baylin
- Department of Oncology, the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Scott B. Rothbart
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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16
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Ghoreshi ZAS, Rezaei Zadeh Rukerd M, Askarpour H, Kheirkhah Vakilabad AA, Nakhaie M, Abbaszadeh Afshar MJ, Behboudi E, Charostad J, Arefinia N. The Role of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Infected Gastric Cancer in Increasing microRNA124 (miR-124) Promoter Methylation and Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) Gene Expression. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e36534. [PMID: 38517989 PMCID: PMC10956982 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor microRNAs, miR-21, miR-124, and miR-494, participate in the controlling several cellular processes. To assess target miRNAs promoter methylation levels, we investigated 304 pairs of gastric cancer (GC) tissues and non-tumor tissues. We used a commercial real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Helicobacter pylori kit to detect EBV and H. pylori DNA in GC tissues. After finding hypermethylation in the promoter of the miR-124 gene, we evaluated its expression level using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Bioinformatics analysis confirmed miR-124 as a target of enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Additionally, qPCR confirmed the association between EZH2 and miR-124. EBV and H. pylori DNA were detected in 9.5% and 15.1% of GC patients, respectively. Our findings also revealed significant differences in the miR-124 methylation levels among EBV-infected GC patients, H. pylori infected GC patients, GC patients without EBV and H. pylori infection, and non-tumor tissue. Bioinformatics and qPCR assays suggested an inverse relationship between the expression levels of EZH2 and miR-124 in EBV-infected GC patients. Our data revealed hypermethylation of the miR-124 promoter and significant reduction in its expression in EBV-infected GC tissues. It is possible that miR-124 may target EZH2 by binding to the 3'-UTR of the EZH2 gene, thus potentially contributing to the development of EBV-infected GC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hedyeh Askarpour
- School of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | | | - Mohsen Nakhaie
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Emad Behboudi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
| | - Javad Charostad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
| | - Nasir Arefinia
- Bio Environmental Health Hazard Research Center, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
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17
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El Baba R, Herbein G. EZH2-Myc Hallmark in Oncovirus/Cytomegalovirus Infections and Cytomegalovirus' Resemblance to Oncoviruses. Cells 2024; 13:541. [PMID: 38534385 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 15-20% of global cancer cases are attributed to virus infections. Oncoviruses employ various molecular strategies to enhance replication and persistence. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), acting as an initiator or promoter, enables immune evasion, supporting tumor growth. HCMV activates pro-oncogenic pathways within infected cells and direct cellular transformation. Thus, HCMV demonstrates characteristics reminiscent of oncoviruses. Cumulative evidence emphasizes the crucial roles of EZH2 and Myc in oncogenesis and stemness. EZH2 and Myc, pivotal regulators of cellular processes, gain significance in the context of oncoviruses and HCMV infections. This axis becomes a central focus for comprehending the mechanisms driving virus-induced oncogenesis. Elevated EZH2 expression is evident in various cancers, making it a prospective target for cancer therapy. On the other hand, Myc, deregulated in over 50% of human cancers, serves as a potent transcription factor governing cellular processes and contributing to tumorigenesis; Myc activates EZH2 expression and induces global gene expression. The Myc/EZH2 axis plays a critical role in promoting tumor growth in oncoviruses. Considering that HCMV has been shown to manipulate the Myc/EZH2 axis, there is emerging evidence suggesting that HCMV could be regarded as a potential oncovirus due to its ability to exploit this critical pathway implicated in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranim El Baba
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB EA4266, University of Franche-Comté UFC, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Georges Herbein
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB EA4266, University of Franche-Comté UFC, 25000 Besançon, France
- Department of Virology, CHU Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
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Yang Y, Li W, Yang H, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Xu F, Hao Y, Cao W, Du G, Wang J. Research progress on the regulatory mechanisms of FOXC1 expression in cancers and its role in drug resistance. Gene 2024; 897:148079. [PMID: 38101711 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.148079] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The Forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) transcription factor is an important member of the FOX family. After initially being identified in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with significant oncogenic function, FOXC1 was subsequently demonstrated to be involved in the development of more than 16 types of cancers. In recent years, increasing studies have focused on the deregulatory mechanisms of FOXC1 expression and revealed that FOXC1 expression was regulated at multiple levels including transcriptional regulation, post-transcription regulation and post-translational modification. Moreover, dysregulation of FOXC1 is also implicated in drug resistance in various types of cancer, especially in breast cancer, which further emphasizes the translational and clinical significance of FOXC1 as a therapeutic target in cancer treatment. This review summarizes recent findings on mechanisms of FOXC1 dysregulation in cancers and its role in chemoresistance, which will help to better understand the oncogenic role of FOXC1, overcome FOXC1-mediated drug resistance and develop targeted therapy for FOXC1 in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wan Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Hong Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yizhi Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Fang Xu
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yue Hao
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wanxin Cao
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
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Wang J, Liu L, Li Z, Wang H, Ren Y, Wang K, Liu Y, Tao X, Zheng L. JMJD3 regulate H3K27me3 modification via interacting directly with TET1 to affect spermatogonia self-renewal and proliferation. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:225. [PMID: 38424516 PMCID: PMC10905883 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10120-9] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In epigenetic modification, histone modification and DNA methylation coordinate the regulation of spermatogonium. Not only can methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 (TET1) function as a DNA demethylase, converting 5-methylcytosine to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, it can also form complexes with other proteins to regulate gene expression. H3K27me3, one of the common histone modifications, is involved in the regulation of stem cell maintenance and tumorigenesis by inhibiting gene transcription. METHODS we examined JMJD3 at both mRNA and protein levels and performed Chip-seq sequencing of H3K27me3 in TET1 overexpressing cells to search for target genes and signaling pathways of its action. RESULTS This study has found that JMJD3 plays a leading role in spermatogonia self-renewal and proliferation: at one extreme, the expression of the self-renewal gene GFRA1 and the proliferation-promoting gene PCNA was upregulated following the overexpression of JMJD3 in spermatogonia; at the other end of the spectrum, the expression of differentiation-promoting gene DAZL was down-regulated. Furthermore, the fact that TET1 and JMJD3 can form a protein complex to interact with H3K27me3 has also been fully proven. Then, through analyzing the sequencing results of CHIP-Seq, we found that TET1 targeted Pramel3 when it interacted with H3K27me3. Besides, TET1 overexpression not only reduced H3K27me3 deposition at Pramel3, but promoted its transcriptional activation as well, and the up-regulation of Pramel3 expression was verified in JMJD3-overexpressing spermatogonia. CONCLUSION In summary, our study identified a novel link between TET1 and H3K27me3 and established a Tet1-JMJD3-H3K27me3-Pramel3 axis to regulate spermatogonia self-renewal and proliferation. Judging from the evidence offered above, we can safely conclude that this study provides new ideas for further research regarding the mechanism of spermatogenesis and spermatogenesis disorders on an apparent spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lingling Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zebin Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ren
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kaisheng Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xinjie Tao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Liming Zheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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20
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Xiong G, Xie N, Nie M, Ling R, Yun B, Xie J, Ren L, Huang Y, Wang W, Yi C, Zhang M, Xu X, Zhang C, Zou B, Zhang L, Liu X, Huang H, Chen D, Cao W, Wang C. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals cell atlas and identifies cycling tumor cells responsible for recurrence in ameloblastoma. Int J Oral Sci 2024; 16:21. [PMID: 38424060 PMCID: PMC10904398 DOI: 10.1038/s41368-024-00281-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Ameloblastoma is a benign tumor characterized by locally invasive phenotypes, leading to facial bone destruction and a high recurrence rate. However, the mechanisms governing tumor initiation and recurrence are poorly understood. Here, we uncovered cellular landscapes and mechanisms that underlie tumor recurrence in ameloblastoma at single-cell resolution. Our results revealed that ameloblastoma exhibits five tumor subpopulations varying with respect to immune response (IR), bone remodeling (BR), tooth development (TD), epithelial development (ED), and cell cycle (CC) signatures. Of note, we found that CC ameloblastoma cells were endowed with stemness and contributed to tumor recurrence, which was dominated by the EZH2-mediated program. Targeting EZH2 effectively eliminated CC ameloblastoma cells and inhibited tumor growth in ameloblastoma patient-derived organoids. These data described the tumor subpopulation and clarified the identity, function, and regulatory mechanism of CC ameloblastoma cells, providing a potential therapeutic target for ameloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gan Xiong
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nan Xie
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Nie
- Department of Periodontics, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongsong Ling
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bokai Yun
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxiang Xie
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linlin Ren
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqi Huang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjin Wang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Yi
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuyun Xu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caihua Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leitao Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiqiang Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzhang Huang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Demeng Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Cheng Wang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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21
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Fuji S, Sakai R. Apoptotic abnormal lymphocytes as a possible early indicator of clinical response in patients with ATL. EJHAEM 2024; 5:274-275. [PMID: 38406541 PMCID: PMC10887258 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Fuji
- Department of HematologyOsaka International Cancer InstituteOsakaJapan
| | - Reiko Sakai
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryOsaka International Cancer InstituteOsakaJapan
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22
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Su R, Cao W, Ma G, Li W, Li Z, Liu Y, Chen L, Chen Z, Li X, Cui P, Huang G. Cyclohexene oxide CA, a derivative of zeylenone, exhibits anti-cancer activity in glioblastoma by inducing G0/G1 phase arrest through interference with EZH2. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1326245. [PMID: 38264522 PMCID: PMC10803536 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1326245] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Due to its highly aggressiveness and malignancy, glioblastoma (GBM) urgently requires a safe and effective treatment strategy. Zeylenone, a natural polyoxygenated cyclohexenes compound isolated from Uvaria grandiflora, has exhibited potential biological activities in various human diseases, including tumors. Methods: We designed and synthesized a series of (+)-Zeylenone analogues and evaluated their anti-GBM roles through structural-activity analysis. Cell Counting Kit-8, TUNEL, transwell and flow cytometry were employed for investigating the anticancer effects of CA on GBM cells. Western blotting, molecular docking, qRT-PCR and ChIP assays were performed to reveal the underlying mechanisms by which CA regulates the GBM cell cycle. The nude mouse xenograft model, HE staining, immunohistochemistry and was used to evaluate the anticancer effect of CA in vivo. Results: We identified CA ((1R, 2R, 3S)-3-p-fluorobenzoyl-zeylenone) as having the lowest IC50 value in GBM cells. CA treatment significantly inhibited the malignant behaviors of GBM cells and induced G0/G1 phase arrest in vitro. Furthermore, we validated the molecular mechanism by which CA interferes with EZH2, attenuating the down-regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p27 and p16 by the PRC2 complex. By establishing orthotopic nude mice models, we further validated the inhibitory role of CA on tumorigenesis of GBM cells in vivo and its potential values to synergistically potentiate the anti-tumor effects of EZH2 inhibitors. Conclusion: Overall, this paper elucidated the anti-GBM effects and potential mechanisms of CA, and may provide a therapeutic drug candidate for GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiwei Cao
- Institute of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guoxu Ma
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weiping Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zongyang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yongpei Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zebin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuejuan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ping Cui
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guodong Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
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23
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Stitzlein LM, Adams JT, Stitzlein EN, Dudley RW, Chandra J. Current and future therapeutic strategies for high-grade gliomas leveraging the interplay between epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling networks. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:12. [PMID: 38183103 PMCID: PMC10768151 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02923-7] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapies, including small molecule inhibitors directed against aberrant kinase signaling and chromatin regulators, are emerging treatment options for high-grade gliomas (HGG). However, when translating these inhibitors into the clinic, their efficacy is generally limited to partial and transient responses. Recent studies in models of high-grade gliomas reveal a convergence of epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling networks that often cooperate to promote malignant properties and drug resistance. This review examines the interplay between five well-characterized groups of chromatin regulators, including the histone deacetylase (HDAC) family, bromodomain and extraterminal (BET)-containing proteins, protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) family, Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), and lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), and various signaling pathways essential for cancer cell growth and progression. These specific epigenetic regulators were chosen for review due to their targetability via pharmacological intervention and clinical relevance. Several studies have demonstrated improved efficacy from the dual inhibition of the epigenetic regulators and signaling kinases. Overall, the interactions between epigenetic regulators and kinase signaling pathways are likely influenced by several factors, including individual glioma subtypes, preexisting mutations, and overlapping/interdependent functions of the chromatin regulators. The insights gained by understanding how the genome and epigenome cooperate in high-grade gliomas will guide the design of future therapeutic strategies that utilize dual inhibition with improved efficacy and overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea M Stitzlein
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jack T Adams
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Richard W Dudley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
| | - Joya Chandra
- Department of Pediatrics Research, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Box 853, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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24
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Thapa R, Afzal O, Afzal M, Gupta G, Bhat AA, Hassan Almalki W, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Saleem S, Arora P, Singh SK, Dua K. From LncRNA to metastasis: The MALAT1-EMT axis in cancer progression. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:154959. [PMID: 38029713 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a complex disease that causes abnormal genetic changes and unchecked cellular growth. It also causes a disruption in the normal regulatory processes that leads to the creation of malignant tissue. The complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and epigenetic variables influences its etiology. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal contributors within the intricate landscape of cancer biology, orchestrating an array of multifaceted cellular processes that substantiate the processes of carcinogenesis and metastasis. Metastasis is a crucial driver of cancer mortality. Among these, MALAT1 (Metastasis-Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1) has drawn a lot of interest for its function in encouraging metastasis via controlling the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) procedure. MALAT1 exerts a pivotal influence on the process of EMT, thereby promoting metastasis to distant organs. The mechanistic underpinning of this phenomenon involves the orchestration of an intricate regulatory network encompassing transcription factors, signalling cascades, and genes intricately associated with the EMT process by MALAT1. Its crucial function in transforming tumor cells into an aggressive phenotype is highlighted by its capacity to influence the expression of essential EMT effectors such as N-cadherin, E-cadherin, and Snail. An understanding of the MALAT1-EMT axis provides potential therapeutic approaches for cancer intervention. Targeting MALAT1 or its downstream EMT effectors may reduce the spread of metastatic disease and improve the effectiveness of already available therapies. Understanding the MALAT1-EMT axis holds significant clinical implications. Therefore, directing attention towards MALAT1 or its downstream mediators could present innovative therapeutic strategies for mitigating metastasis and improving patient prognosis. This study highlights the importance of MALAT1 in cancer biology and its potential for cutting back on metastatic disease with novel treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Mahal Road, Jagatpura, Jaipur, India
| | - Obaid Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India; School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun 248007, India.
| | - Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Mahal Road, Jagatpura, Jaipur, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shakir Saleem
- Department of Public Health. College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Poonam Arora
- SGT College of Pharmacy, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
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25
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Huang H, Deng X, Yu L, Huang H, Wang Z, Hong H, Lin T. EZH1/2 alteration as a potential biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitors across multiple cancer types. J Transl Med 2023; 21:913. [PMID: 38102713 PMCID: PMC10724995 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04759-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Huageng Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Deng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Le Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - He Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China
| | - Huangming Hong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tongyu Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng East Road, Guangzhou, 510060, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Ward and Phase I Clinical Trial Ward, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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26
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Shyu JY, Schlag PA, Karwowska SM, Manohar CF, Truong HM, Longshore JW, Zhang G. Performance of the cobas EZH2 mutation test on clinical samples from non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292251. [PMID: 38096164 PMCID: PMC10721068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present the technical verification and clinical validation of the companion diagnostic assay, cobas® EZH2 Mutation Test (cobas EZH2 Test), targeting gain-of-function EZH2 mutations in follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The focus is on patient clinical samples proving that the test met the performance criteria required for FDA approval of a companion diagnostic test. DESIGN Epizyme, Inc., Eisai Co., Ltd., and Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., collaborated to develop the cobas EZH2 Test on an RT-PCR platform. The assay design needed to detect the gain-of-function EZH2 mutations found in FL and DLBCL indications. Thus, the test was optimized for investigational purposes in a clinical trial setting. Part of its technical verification included testing of patient tumor samples with a documented diagnosis of FL and DLBCL procured from commercial vendors, and the clinical validation used patient samples from the Epizyme clinical study. Both the technical performance verification method correlation study (104 clinical commercially acquired samples) and the clinical validation accuracy study (341 patient samples from the therapeutic study) used next-generation sequencing as a reference method to establish true vs. false results by cobas EZH2 Test. The reproducibility study used a 15-member panel of DNA samples with varying EZH2 mutation status from procured clinical FL and DLBCL patient samples under multiple variables. RESULTS Single and rare, infrequent double EZH2 mutations were detected in FL and DLBCL samples. Agreements between results from cobas EZH2 and sequencing were >98% from commercial clinical samples and from the therapeutic study clinical samples. The reproducibility study obtained 178 to 180 valid results for each panel member, with an overall invalid rate of 0.37%. The agreement for each per panel member was 100%. CONCLUSION cobas EZH2 Test data demonstrated that the test is reliable and will perform well in a commercial customer environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny Y. Shyu
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
| | - Peter A. Schlag
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
| | - Sylwia M. Karwowska
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
| | - Chitra F. Manohar
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
| | - Huan M. Truong
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
| | - John W. Longshore
- Carolinas Pathology Group and Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Guili Zhang
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California, United States of America
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Ju J, Zhang H, Guan S, Liu C, Du J, Shen X, Wang S. Insight into the Inhibitory Mechanism of Embryonic Ectoderm Development Subunit by Triazolopyrimidine Derivatives as Inhibitors through Molecular Dynamics Simulation. Molecules 2023; 28:7997. [PMID: 38138487 PMCID: PMC10745707 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28247997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the Embryonic Ectoderm Development (EED) subunit in Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) can inhibit tumor growth. In this paper, we selected six experimentally designed EED competitive Inhibitors of the triazolopyrimidine derivatives class. We investigated the difference in the binding mode of the natural substrate to the Inhibitors and the effects of differences in the parent nuclei, heads, and tails of the Inhibitors on the inhibitory capacity. The results showed that the binding free energy of this class of Inhibitors was close to or lower compared to the natural substrate, providing an energetic basis for competitive inhibition. For the Inhibitors, the presence of a strong negatively charged group at the 6-position of the parent nucleus or the 8'-position of the head would make the hydrogen atom on the head imino group prone to flip, resulting in the vertical movement of the parent nucleus, which significantly decreased the inhibitory ability. When the 6-position of the parent nucleus was a nonpolar group, the parent nucleus would move horizontally, slightly decreasing the inhibitory ability. When the 8'-position of the head was methylene, it formed an intramolecular hydrophobic interaction with the benzene ring on the tail, resulting in a significant increase in inhibition ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Ju
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
| | - Hao Zhang
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
| | - Shanshan Guan
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Jilin Engineering Normal University, Changchun 130052, China;
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition at Universities of Jilin Province, Changchun 130052, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
| | - Juan Du
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiaoli Shen
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
| | - Song Wang
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2 Liutiao Road, Changchun 130023, China; (J.J.); (H.Z.); (C.L.); (J.D.); (X.S.)
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Wu G, Wang Q, Wang D, Xiong F, Liu W, Chen J, Wang B, Huang W, Wang X, Chen Y. Targeting polycomb repressor complex 2-mediated bivalent promoter epigenetic silencing of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 inhibits cholangiocarcinoma progression. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1502. [PMID: 38050190 PMCID: PMC10696163 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1502] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) refers to a collection of malignancies that are associated with a dismal prognosis. Currently, surgical resection is the only way to cure patients with CCA. Available systemic therapy is limited to gemcitabine plus cisplatin; however, this treatment is palliative in nature. Therefore, there is still a need to explore new effective therapeutic targets to intervene against CCA. METHODS We analyzed the expression of EZH2 and the prognosis of patients in CCA. The proliferation, migration and invasion of CCA cells after gene knockdown and overexpression were examined and validated by a xenograft model and a primary CCA mouse model with corresponding gene intervention. Targeting DNA methylation, and RNA-sequencing-based transcriptomic analysis in EZH2 and SUZ12 knockout CCA cells was performed. Bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative PCR (ChIP-qPCR) and reverse-ChIP assays were performed for research purposes. RESULTS Increased expression of EZH2 in CCA exhibited a significantly poorer prognosis. DNA hypomethylation of the promoter and increased mRNA levels of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) were observed in CCA cells following the inhibition of polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2), which was achieved through a knockout of EZH2, SUZ12 and EED, respectively, or treatment with GSK126 and GSK343. Targeting the SFRP1 promoter DNA hypermethylation with dCas9-DNMT3a decreased the mRNA level of SFRP1. The expression of SFRP1 is regulated by both H3K27me3 and DNA methylation and H3K27me3 plays a crucial role in promoting SFRP1 promotor DNA methylation. GSK343 is a small molecule inhibitor that targets the catalytic activity of EZH2. It effectively inhibits the progression and development of subcutaneous xenografts and primary CCA mouse models. CONCLUSION Overall, our data strongly suggested that targeting PRC2 promotes the expression of SFRP1, thereby inhibiting the progression of CCA. KEY POINTS/HEADLIGHTS Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) exhibits elevated expression of EZH2, SUZ12 and EED, resulting in increased levels of H3K27me3. Targeting polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2) leads to the removal of H3K27me3 from the secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) promoter and DNA hypomethylation, thereby activating the transcription of SFRP1. Inhibiting PRC2, including the use of EZH2 inhibitors, holds promise as a potential strategy for developing anti-cancer drugs for CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanhua Wu
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Da Wang
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Wenzheng Liu
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Junsheng Chen
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Wenhua Huang
- Department of EmergencyTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Departement of Pediatric SurgeryWuhan Children's Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
| | - Yongjun Chen
- Department of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgeryTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanP. R. China
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Khattri M, Amako Y, Gibbs JR, Collura JL, Arora R, Harold A, Li MY, Harms PW, Ezhkova E, Shuda M. Methyltransferase-independent function of enhancer of zeste homologue 2 maintains tumorigenicity induced by human oncogenic papillomavirus and polyomavirus. Tumour Virus Res 2023; 16:200264. [PMID: 37244352 PMCID: PMC10258072 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvr.2023.200264] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) and high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) are human tumor viruses that cause Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), respectively. HPV E7 and MCV large T (LT) oncoproteins target the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (pRb) through the conserved LxCxE motif. We identified enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) as a common host oncoprotein activated by both viral oncoproteins through the pRb binding motif. EZH2 is a catalytic subunit of the polycomb 2 (PRC2) complex that trimethylates histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3). In MCC tissues EZH2 was highly expressed, irrespective of MCV status. Loss-of-function studies revealed that viral HPV E6/E7 and T antigen expression are required for Ezh2 mRNA expression and that EZH2 is essential for HPV(+)OSCC and MCV(+)MCC cell growth. Furthermore, EZH2 protein degraders reduced cell viability efficiently and rapidly in HPV(+)OSCC and MCV(+)MCC cells, whereas EZH2 histone methyltransferase inhibitors did not affect cell proliferation or viability within the same treatment period. These results suggest that a methyltransferase-independent function of EZH2 contributes to tumorigenesis downstream of two viral oncoproteins, and that direct targeting of EZH2 protein expression could be a promising strategy for the inhibition of tumor growth in HPV(+)OSCC and MCV(+)MCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Khattri
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yutaka Amako
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Julia R Gibbs
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph L Collura
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Reety Arora
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, India
| | - Alexis Harold
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Meng Yen Li
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, 10029, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elena Ezhkova
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, 10029, USA
| | - Masahiro Shuda
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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30
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Chen L, Zheng X, Liu W, Sun Y, Zhao S, Tian L, Tian W, Xue F, Kang C, Wang Y. Compound AC1Q3QWB upregulates CDKN1A and SOX17 by interrupting the HOTAIR-EZH2 interaction and enhances the efficacy of tazemetostat in endometrial cancer. Cancer Lett 2023; 578:216445. [PMID: 37866545 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216445] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common malignancy of the female reproductive system, with an escalating incidence. Recurrent/metastatic EC presents a poor prognosis. The interaction between the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOTAIR and the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) induces abnormal silencing of tumor suppressor genes, exerting a pivotal role in tumorigenesis. We have previously discovered AC1Q3QWB (AQB), a small-molecule compound targeting HOTAIR-EZH2 interaction. In the present study, we unveil that AQB selectively hampers the interaction between HOTAIR and EZH2 within EC cells, thus reversing the epigenetic suppression of tumor suppressor genes. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate AQB's synergistic effect with tazemetostat (TAZ), an EZH2 inhibitor, significantly boosting the expression of CDKN1A and SOX17. This, in turn, induces cell cycle arrest and impedes EC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In vivo experiments further validate AQB's potential by enhancing TAZ's anti-tumor efficacy at lower doses. Our results advocate AQB, a recently discovered small-molecule inhibitor, as a promising agent against EC cells. When combined with TAZ, it offers a novel therapeutic strategy for EC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xingyu Zheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Wenlu Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yiqing Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Lina Tian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Wenyan Tian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Chunsheng Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Lab of Neuro-oncology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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Wang K, Jiang X, Jiang Y, Liu J, Du Y, Zhang Z, Li Y, Zhao X, Li J, Zhang R. EZH2-H3K27me3-mediated silencing of mir-139-5p inhibits cellular senescence in hepatocellular carcinoma by activating TOP2A. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:320. [PMID: 38008711 PMCID: PMC10680220 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02855-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic alterations play an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a well-known epigenetic modifier that functions as an oncogene in tumors by promoting the H3K27me3-mediated transcriptional repression of tumor suppressor genes. "Senescent cells" has been proposed as a possible core component of the hallmarks of cancer conceptualization. Induction of cell senescence and targeted elimination of these senescent tumor cells are new strategies for tumor therapy. However, the role of EZH2 in regulating cellular senescence remains poorly understood. METHODS Bioinformatics analyses suggested that EZH2 and DNA topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) are coexpressed in tumors, including HCC. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses and gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) suggests a correlation of EZH2 and TOP2A expression with cellular senescence in HCC. MicroRNA (miRNA) inhibitor and mimics, siRNA, PLKO-shRNA, and plenti6.3-miR-139 were used to upregulate or downregulate the expression of target genes. CCK8, EdU, clone formation, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining assays were performed to assess cell proliferation and cellular senescence phenotypes. Dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed to investigate the targeted binding and inhibition of TOP2A 3' untranslated region (UTR) by miR-139-5p and the DNA enrichment of miR139-5p by EZH2 and H3K27me3. BALB/c nude mice were used to establish a xenograft tumor model and verify the phenotypes upon EZH2 and TOP2A silencing and miR-139 overexpression in vivo. In addition, tissue microarrays were used to analyze the expression patterns and correlations among EZH2, TOP2A, and miR-139-5p expression in HCC. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis revealed that EZH2 and TOP2A are coexpressed in HCC. In vitro gain- and loss-of-function experiments showed that inhibition of EZH2 and TOP2A induces cellular senescence and inhibits proliferation of HCC cells. In vivo tumorigenesis assays indicated that EZH2 and TOP2A knockdown inhibits tumorigenesis by inducing cellular senescence. Mechanistically, EZH2 promotes TOP2A expression by regulating the H3K27me3-mediated epigenetic silencing of miR-139-5p. TOP2A is a direct target of miR-139-5p, and inhibition of miR-139-5p can reverse the promotion by EZH2 of TOP2A expression. The overexpression of miR-139-5p induces cellular senescence and inhibits proliferation of HCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Clinically, expression of EZH2 and TOP2A are higher in HCC tissues than in normal tissues, and this high coexpression indicates a worse outcome of patients with HCC. Moreover, expression of EZH2 and TOP2A is significantly correlated with tumor differentiation grade, tumor invasion, and TNM stage in HCC. miR-139-5p expression is lower in HCC tumors than in normal tissues and is correlated with better prognosis of HCC patients. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed the role of the EZH2/miR-139-5p/TOP2A axis in regulating cellular senescence and cell proliferation in HCC, enriching the molecular mechanisms of EZH2-mediated epigenetic regulation in HCC. Therefore, our results provide insight into the therapeutic potential of targeting EZH2 to induce cellular senescence and then destroy senescent cells for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Department of General Surgery, Central Theater Command General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, 430064, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xunliang Jiang
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, XI'AN DAXING hospital, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yongtao Du
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zecheng Zhang
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xinhui Zhao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, 710018, China
| | - Jipeng Li
- Department of digestive surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Rui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Rosen EY, Shukla NN, Glade Bender JL. EZH2 inhibition: it's all about the context. J Natl Cancer Inst 2023; 115:1246-1248. [PMID: 37682251 PMCID: PMC10637027 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ezra Y Rosen
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Neerav N Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julia L Glade Bender
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Zhao G, Deng Z, Li X, Wang H, Chen G, Feng M, Zhou Y. Targeting EZH2 regulates the biological characteristics of glioma stem cells via the Notch1 pathway. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:2409-2418. [PMID: 37644332 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06693-8] [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: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Glioma is the most common malignant brain tumor, and its behavior is closely related to the presence of glioma stem cells (GSCs). We found that the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is highly expressed in glioma and that its expression is correlated with the prognosis of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in two databases: The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas. Additionally, EZH2 is known to regulate the stemness-associated gene expression, proliferation, and invasion ability of GSCs, which may be achieved through the activation of the STAT3 and Notch1 pathways. Furthermore, we demonstrated the effect of the EZH2-specific inhibitor GSK126 on GSCs; these results not only corroborate our hypothesis, but also provide a potential novel treatment approach for glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guozheng Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Zhitong Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Xuetao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Guangliang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Ming Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Youxin Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
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Yu L, Wang YF, Xiao J, Shen QQ, Chi SS, Gao YL, Lin DZ, Ding J, Fang YF, Chen Y. Dysregulation of iron homeostasis by TfR-1 renders EZH2 wild type diffuse large B-cell lymphoma resistance to EZH2 inhibition. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:2113-2124. [PMID: 37225847 PMCID: PMC10545686 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01097-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2 has been regarded as an efficient target for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), but the clinical benefits of EZH2 inhibitors (EZH2i) are limited. To date, only EPZ-6438 has been approved by FDA for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and epithelioid sarcoma. We have discovered a novel EZH1/2 inhibitor HH2853 with a better antitumor effect than EPZ-6438 in preclinical studies. In this study we explored the molecular mechanism underlying the primary resistance to EZH2 inhibitors and sought for combination therapy strategy to overcome it. By analyzing EPZ-6438 and HH2853 response profiling, we found that EZH2 inhibition increased intracellular iron through upregulation of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR-1), ultimately triggered resistance to EZH2i in DLBCL cells. We demonstrated that H3K27ac gain by EZH2i enhanced c-Myc transcription, which contributed to TfR-1 overexpression in insensitive U-2932 and WILL-2 cells. On the other hand, EZH2i impaired the occurrence of ferroptosis by upregulating the heat shock protein family A (Hsp70) member 5 (HSPA5) and stabilizing glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), a ferroptosis suppressor; co-treatment with ferroptosis inducer erastin effectively overrode the resistance of DLBCL to EZH2i in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, this study reveals iron-dependent resistance evoked by EZH2i in DLBCL cells, and suggests that combination with ferroptosis inducer may be a promising therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yu
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ya-Fang Wang
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qian-Qian Shen
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shuai-Shuai Chi
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ying-Lei Gao
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Dong-Ze Lin
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jian Ding
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
| | - Yan-Fen Fang
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yi Chen
- Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Kim SB, Yang CE, Jeong Y, Yu M, Choi WS, Lim JY, Jeon Y. Dual Targeting of EZH2 Degradation and EGFR/HER2 Inhibition for Enhanced Efficacy against Burkitt's Lymphoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4472. [PMID: 37760442 PMCID: PMC10526300 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184472] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2, a histone methyltransferase, contributes significantly to cancer cell survival and proliferation. Although various EZH2 inhibitors have demonstrated promise in treating lymphoma, they have not fully managed to curb lymphoma cell proliferation despite effective reduction of the H3K27me3 mark. We used MS1943, an EZH2 selective degrader, which successfully diminishes EZH2 levels in lymphoma cells. Additionally, lapatinib, a dual inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) tyrosine kinases, targets a receptor protein that regulates cell growth and division. The overexpression of this protein is often observed in lymphoma cells. Our study aims to combine these two therapeutic targets to stimulate apoptosis pathways and potentially suppress Burkitt's lymphoma cell survival and proliferation in a complementary and synergistic manner. We observed that a combination of MS1943 and lapatinib induced apoptosis in Daudi cells and caused cell cycle arrest at the S and G2/M phases in both Ramos and Daudi cells. This strategy, using a combination of MS1943 and lapatinib, presents a promising therapeutic approach for treating lymphoma and potentially Burkitt's lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se Been Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae-Eun Yang
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
| | - Yurim Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
| | - Minseo Yu
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Su Choi
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Department of Digital Anti-Aging Health Care, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Yeon Lim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea; (S.B.K.); (C.-E.Y.); (Y.J.); (M.Y.); (W.-S.C.)
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngwoo Jeon
- Lymphoma and Cell-Therapy Research Center, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- JL’s Lymphoma Origins & Clinical Applications Lab (JL-LOCAL), The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
- Department of Hematology, Yeouido St. Mary Hospital, School of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 07345, Republic of Korea
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Gao J, Fosbrook C, Gibson J, Underwood TJ, Gray JC, Walters ZS. Review: Targeting EZH2 in neuroblastoma. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 119:102600. [PMID: 37467626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2023.102600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma is one of the commonest extra-cranial pediatric tumors, and accounts for over 15% of all childhood cancer mortality. Risk stratification for children with neuroblastoma is based on age, stage, histology, and tumor cytogenetics. The majority of patients are considered to have high-risk neuroblastoma, for which the long-term survival is less than 50%. Current treatments combine surgical resection, chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, radiotherapy, anti-GD2 based immunotherapy as well as the differentiating agent isotretinoin. Despite the intensive multimodal therapies applied, there are high relapse rates, and recurrent disease is often resistant to further therapy. Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), a catalytic subunit of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), is a histone methyltransferase that represses transcription through trimethylation of lysine residue K27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). It is responsible for epigenetic repression of transcription, making EZH2 an essential regulator for cell differentiation. Overexpression of EZH2 has been shown to promote tumorigenesis, cancer cell proliferation and prevent tumor cells from differentiating in a number of cancers. Therefore, research has been ongoing for the past decade, developing treatments that target EZH2 in neuroblastoma. This review summarises the role of EZH2 in neuroblastoma and evaluates the latest research findings on the therapeutic potential of targeting EZH2 in the treatment of neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhui Gao
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Claire Fosbrook
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Jane Gibson
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Timothy J Underwood
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Juliet C Gray
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Zoë S Walters
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
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Chen Y, Ma J, Zhang M. TRIM29 promotes the progression of colorectal cancer by suppressing EZH2 degradation. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:1527-1536. [PMID: 37837384 PMCID: PMC10676129 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231199070] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is commonly diagnosed at the advanced stage and has a high mortality rate. Tripartite Motif Containing 29 (TRIM29) is an oncogene in numerous malignancies including CRC. However, the molecular mechanism of TRIM29 is largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the biological functions of TRIM29 and the underlying mechanisms. The expression of TRIM29 and Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) was predicted using the bioinformatic analysis and measured using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical assay. The biological functions of TRIM29 were analyzed using a cell counting kit-8, EdU and transwell assays, scratch test, and flow cytometry. The interaction between TRIM29 and EZH2 was assessed using protein immunoprecipitation. The stability of EZH2 was evaluated by treating it with cycloheximide. Our results indicated that TRIM29 levels were upregulated in CRC. Overexpression of TRIM29 promoted CRC cell proliferation and migration and suppressed apoptosis. The opposite result was obtained when TRIM29 was silenced. TRIM29 interacted with EZH2 mechanically and enhanced the protein stability of EZH2. Depletion of EZH2 reversed the effects of TRIM29, regarding its biological behaviors. Moreover, downregulation of TRIM29 inhibited tumor growth and improved the histopathological prognosis. In conclusion, EZH2 interacted with silenced TRIM29 to suppress its stability, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation, migration, and tumor growth, and promoting apoptosis in CRC. Our findings suggested that TRIM29 is a promising target for CRC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mingming Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Liuzhou People’s Hospital, Liuzhou 545006, Guangxi, China
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Kobayashi K, Saito Y, Kage H, Fukuoka O, Yamamura K, Mukai T, Oda K, Yamasoba T. CDK12 alterations and ARID1A mutations are predictors of poor prognosis and therapeutic targets in high-grade salivary gland carcinoma: analysis of the National Genomic Profiling Database. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2023; 53:798-807. [PMID: 37357968 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyad066] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the diversity of histopathologic types in salivary gland carcinoma, genomic analysis of large cohorts with next-generation sequencing by histologic type has not been adequately performed. METHODS We analysed data from 93 patients with salivary duct carcinoma and 243 patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma who underwent comprehensive genomic profiling testing in the Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics database, a Japanese national genome profiling database. We visualised gene mutation profiles using the OncoPrinter platform. Fisher's exact test, Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test and Cox regression models were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS In salivary duct carcinoma, a population with CDK12 and ERBB2 co-amplification was detected in 20 of 37 (54.1%) patients with ERBB2 amplification. We identified five loss-of-function variants in genes related to homologous recombination deficiency, such as BRCA2 and CDK12. Cox survival analysis showed that CDK12 and ERBB2 co-amplification is associated with overall survival (hazard ratio, 3.597; P = 0.045). In salivary duct carcinoma, NOTCH1 mutations were the most common, followed by mutations in chromatin modification genes such as KMT2D, BCOR, KDM6A, ARID1A, EP300 and CREBBP. In the multivariate Cox analysis, activating NOTCH1 mutations (hazard ratio, 3.569; P = 0.009) and ARID1A mutations (hazard ratio, 4.029; P = 0.034) were significantly associated with overall survival. CONCLUSION CDK12 and ERBB2 co-amplification is associated with a poor prognosis in salivary duct carcinoma. Chromatin remodelling genes are deeply involved in tumour progression in adenoid cystic carcinoma. One such gene, ARID1A, was an independent prognostic factor. In salivary duct carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma, there might be minor populations with mutations that could be targeted for treatment with the synthetic lethality approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenya Kobayashi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Saito
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidenori Kage
- Department of Next-Generation Precision Medicine Development Laboratory, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Fukuoka
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Yamamura
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Mukai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Oda
- Department of Integrative Genomics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Yamasoba
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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39
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Jain N, Mamgain M, Chowdhury SM, Jindal U, Sharma I, Sehgal L, Epperla N. Beyond Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors in mantle cell lymphoma: bispecific antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, CAR T-cells, and novel agents. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:99. [PMID: 37626420 PMCID: PMC10463717 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01496-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mantle cell lymphoma is a B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), representing 2-6% of all NHLs and characterized by overexpression of cyclin D1. The last decade has seen the development of many novel treatment approaches in MCL, most notably the class of Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi). BTKi has shown excellent outcomes for patients with relapsed or refractory MCL and is now being studied in the first-line setting. However, patients eventually progress on BTKi due to the development of resistance. Additionally, there is an alteration in the tumor microenvironment in these patients with varying biological and therapeutic implications. Hence, it is necessary to explore novel therapeutic strategies that can be effective in those who progressed on BTKi or potentially circumvent resistance. In this review, we provide a brief overview of BTKi, then discuss the various mechanisms of BTK resistance including the role of genetic alteration, cancer stem cells, tumor microenvironment, and adaptive reprogramming bypassing the effect of BTK inhibition, and then provide a comprehensive review of current and emerging therapeutic options beyond BTKi including novel agents, CAR T cells, bispecific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Jain
- Division of Cancer Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002 India
| | - Mukesh Mamgain
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, India
| | - Sayan Mullick Chowdhury
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Udita Jindal
- Division of Cancer Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002 India
| | - Isha Sharma
- Division of Cancer Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Lalit Sehgal
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Narendranath Epperla
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Suite 7198, 2121 Kenny Rd, Columbus, OH 43221 USA
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40
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Chen C, Shin JH, Fang Z, Brennan K, Horowitz NB, Pfaff KL, Welsh EL, Rodig SJ, Gevaert O, Gozani O, Uppaluri R, Sunwoo JB. Targeting KDM2A Enhances T-cell Infiltration in NSD1-Deficient Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2023; 83:2645-2655. [PMID: 37311054 PMCID: PMC10526980 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3114] [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: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a significant proportion of tumors have inactivating mutations in the histone methyltransferase NSD1. In these tumors, NSD1 inactivation is a driver of T-cell exclusion from the tumor microenvironment (TME). A better understanding of the NSD1-mediated mechanism regulating infiltration of T cells into the TME could help identify approaches to overcome immunosuppression. Here, we demonstrated that NSD1 inactivation results in lower levels of H3K36 dimethylation and higher levels of H3K27 trimethylation, the latter being a known repressive histone mark enriched on the promoters of key T-cell chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10. HNSCC with NSD1 mutations had lower levels of these chemokines and lacked responses to PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. Inhibition of KDM2A, the primary lysine demethylase that is selective for H3K36, reversed the altered histone marks induced by NSD1 loss and restored T-cell infiltration into the TME. Importantly, KDM2A suppression decreased growth of NSD1-deficient tumors in immunocompetent, but not in immunodeficient, mice. Together, these data indicate that KDM2A is an immunotherapeutic target for overcoming immune exclusion in HNSCC. SIGNIFICANCE The altered epigenetic landscape of NSD1-deficient tumors confers sensitivity to inhibition of the histone-modifying enzyme KDM2A as an immunotherapeutic strategy to stimulate T-cell infiltration and suppress tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - June Ho Shin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Zhuoqing Fang
- Department of Anesthesia, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kevin Brennan
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Nina B. Horowitz
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Kathleen L. Pfaff
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Emma L. Welsh
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Scott J. Rodig
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Olivier Gevaert
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Or Gozani
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Ravindra Uppaluri
- Division of Otolaryngology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - John B. Sunwoo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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Chen X, Wang C, Lu D, Luo H, Li S, Yin F, Luo Z, Cui N, Kong L, Wang X. Design, synthesis and mechanism studies of dual EZH2/BRD4 inhibitors for cancer therapy. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 91:117386. [PMID: 37379621 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117386] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant expression of EZH2 is frequently observed in cancers, and the EZH2 inhibitors are only effective in hematological malignancies and almost noneffective against solid tumors. It has been reported that the combination of EZH2 and BRD4 inhibitors may be a promising strategy to treat solid tumors being insensitive to EZH2 inhibitors. Thus, a series of EZH2/BRD4 dual inhibitors were designed and synthesized. The optimized compound 28, encoded as KWCX-28, was the most potential compound by the SAR studies. Further mechanism studies showed that KWCX-28 inhibited HCT-116 cells proliferation (IC50 = 1.86 µM), induced HCT-116 cells apoptosis, arrested cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and resisted the histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) upregulation. Therefore, KWCX-28 was a potential dual EZH2/BRD4 inhibitors for treating solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinye Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dehua Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Heng Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Fucheng Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhongwen Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ningjie Cui
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lingyi Kong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Xiaobing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Bioactive Natural Product Research and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Zheng X, Dozmorov MG, Strohlein CE, Bastacky S, Sawalha AH. Ezh2 Knockout in B Cells Impairs Plasmablast Differentiation and Ameliorates Lupus-like Disease in MRL/lpr Mice. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:1395-1406. [PMID: 36897808 PMCID: PMC10492897 DOI: 10.1002/art.42492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES EZH2 regulates B cell development and differentiation. We previously demonstrated increased EZH2 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from lupus patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of EZH2 expression in B cells in the pathogenesis of lupus. METHODS We generated an MRL/lpr mouse with floxed Ezh2, which was crossed with CD19-Cre mice to examine the effect of B cell EZH2 deficiency in MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice. Differentiation of B cells was assessed using flow cytometry. Single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell B cell receptor sequencing were performed. In vitro B cell culture with an X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) inhibitor was performed. EZH2 and XBP1 messenger RNA levels in CD19+ B cells isolated from lupus patients and healthy controls were analyzed. RESULTS We show that Ezh2 deletion in B cells significantly decreased autoantibody production and improved glomerulonephritis. B cell development was altered in the bone marrow and spleen of EZH2-deficient mice. Differentiation of germinal center B cells and plasmablasts was impaired. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that XBP1, a key transcription factor in B cell development, is down-regulated in the absence of EZH2. Inhibiting XBP1 in vitro impairs plasmablast development similar to EZH2 deficiency in mice. Single-cell B cell receptor RNA sequencing revealed defective immunoglobulin class-switch recombination in EZH2-deficient mice. In human lupus B cells, we observed a strong correlation between EZH2 and XBP1 messenger RNA expression levels. CONCLUSION EZH2 overexpression in B cells contributes to disease pathogenesis in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Mikhail G Dozmorov
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Colleen E Strohlein
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sheldon Bastacky
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Lupus Center of Excellence, and Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Ladel L, Tan WY, Jeyakanthan T, Sailo B, Sharma A, Ahuja N. The Promise of Epigenetics Research in the Treatment of Appendiceal Neoplasms. Cells 2023; 12:1962. [PMID: 37566041 PMCID: PMC10417136 DOI: 10.3390/cells12151962] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Appendiceal cancers (AC) are a rare and heterogeneous group of malignancies. Historically, appendiceal neoplasms have been grouped with colorectal cancers (CRC), and treatment strategies have been modeled after CRC management guidelines due to their structural similarities and anatomical proximity. However, the two have marked differences in biological behavior and treatment response, and evidence suggests significant discrepancies in their respective genetic profiles. In addition, while the WHO classification for appendiceal cancers is currently based on traditional histopathological criteria, studies have demonstrated that histomorphology does not correlate with survival or treatment response in AC. Due to their rarity, appendiceal cancers have not been studied as extensively as other gastrointestinal cancers. However, their incidence has been increasing steadily over the past decade, making it crucial to identify new and more effective strategies for detection and treatment. Recent efforts to map and understand the molecular landscape of appendiceal cancers have unearthed a wealth of information that has made it evident that appendiceal cancers possess a unique molecular profile, distinct from other gastrointestinal cancers. This review focuses on the epigenetic landscape of epithelial appendiceal cancers and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge of epigenetic changes across different appendiceal cancer subtypes, highlighting the challenges as well as the promise of employing epigenetics in the quest for the detection of biomarkers, therapeutic targets, surveillance markers, and predictors of treatment response and survival in epithelial appendiceal neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Ladel
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
- Affiliated Internal Medicine Residency Program at Norwalk Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Norwalk Hospital, Yale University, Norwalk, CT 06850, USA
| | - Wan Ying Tan
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
- Affiliated Internal Medicine Residency Program at Norwalk Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Norwalk Hospital, Yale University, Norwalk, CT 06850, USA
| | - Thanushiya Jeyakanthan
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
- Affiliated Internal Medicine Residency Program at Norwalk Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Norwalk Hospital, Yale University, Norwalk, CT 06850, USA
| | - Bethsebie Sailo
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Anup Sharma
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Nita Ahuja
- Surgical Oncology Research Laboratories, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (L.L.); (W.Y.T.); (T.J.); (B.S.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
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Dave J, Jagana V, Janostiak R, Bisserier M. Unraveling the epigenetic landscape of pulmonary arterial hypertension: implications for personalized medicine development. J Transl Med 2023; 21:477. [PMID: 37461108 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04339-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a multifactorial disease associated with the remodeling of pulmonary blood vessels. If left unaddressed, PAH can lead to right heart failure and even death. Multiple biological processes, such as smooth muscle proliferation, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and resistance to apoptosis, are associated with PAH. Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetic factors play an important role in PAH by regulating the chromatin structure and altering the expression of critical genes. For example, aberrant DNA methylation and histone modifications such as histone acetylation and methylation have been observed in patients with PAH and are linked to vascular remodeling and pulmonary vascular dysfunction. In this review article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the role of key epigenetic targets in PAH pathogenesis, including DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), ten-eleven translocation enzymes (TET), switch-independent 3A (SIN3A), enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), histone deacetylase (HDAC), and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4). Finally, we discuss the potential of multi-omics integration to better understand the molecular signature and profile of PAH patients and how this approach can help identify personalized treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaydev Dave
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
- Department of Physiology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Vineeta Jagana
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
- Department of Physiology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Radoslav Janostiak
- First Faculty of Medicine, BIOCEV, Charles University, Vestec, 25250, Czech Republic
| | - Malik Bisserier
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.
- Department of Physiology, New York Medical College, 15 Dana Road, BSB 131A, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.
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Gracia-Diaz C, Zhou Y, Yang Q, Maroofian R, Espana-Bonilla P, Lee CH, Zhang S, Padilla N, Fueyo R, Waxman EA, Lei S, Otrimski G, Li D, Sheppard SE, Mark P, Harr MH, Hakonarson H, Rodan L, Jackson A, Vasudevan P, Powel C, Mohammed S, Maddirevula S, Alzaidan H, Faqeih EA, Efthymiou S, Turchetti V, Rahman F, Maqbool S, Salpietro V, Ibrahim SH, di Rosa G, Houlden H, Alharbi MN, Al-Sannaa NA, Bauer P, Zifarelli G, Estaras C, Hurst ACE, Thompson ML, Chassevent A, Smith-Hicks CL, de la Cruz X, Holtz AM, Elloumi HZ, Hajianpour MJ, Rieubland C, Braun D, Banka S, French DL, Heller EA, Saade M, Song H, Ming GL, Alkuraya FS, Agrawal PB, Reinberg D, Bhoj EJ, Martínez-Balbás MA, Akizu N. Gain and loss of function variants in EZH1 disrupt neurogenesis and cause dominant and recessive neurodevelopmental disorders. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4109. [PMID: 37433783 PMCID: PMC10336078 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39645-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic variants in chromatin regulators are frequently found in neurodevelopmental disorders, but their effect in disease etiology is rarely determined. Here, we uncover and functionally define pathogenic variants in the chromatin modifier EZH1 as the cause of dominant and recessive neurodevelopmental disorders in 19 individuals. EZH1 encodes one of the two alternative histone H3 lysine 27 methyltransferases of the PRC2 complex. Unlike the other PRC2 subunits, which are involved in cancers and developmental syndromes, the implication of EZH1 in human development and disease is largely unknown. Using cellular and biochemical studies, we demonstrate that recessive variants impair EZH1 expression causing loss of function effects, while dominant variants are missense mutations that affect evolutionarily conserved aminoacids, likely impacting EZH1 structure or function. Accordingly, we found increased methyltransferase activity leading to gain of function of two EZH1 missense variants. Furthermore, we show that EZH1 is necessary and sufficient for differentiation of neural progenitor cells in the developing chick embryo neural tube. Finally, using human pluripotent stem cell-derived neural cultures and forebrain organoids, we demonstrate that EZH1 variants perturb cortical neuron differentiation. Overall, our work reveals a critical role of EZH1 in neurogenesis regulation and provides molecular diagnosis for previously undefined neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Gracia-Diaz
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yijing Zhou
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Reza Maroofian
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paula Espana-Bonilla
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Chul-Hwan Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacology, Seoul National University, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natàlia Padilla
- Research Unit in Clinical and Translational Bioinformatics, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Fueyo
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa A Waxman
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sunyimeng Lei
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Garrett Otrimski
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dong Li
- Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sarah E Sheppard
- Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul Mark
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Margaret H Harr
- Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lance Rodan
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam Jackson
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Health Innovation Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Pradeep Vasudevan
- Leicestershire Clinical Genetics Service, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - Corrina Powel
- Leicestershire Clinical Genetics Service, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Sateesh Maddirevula
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamad Alzaidan
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eissa A Faqeih
- Section of Medical Genetics, Children's Specialist Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Stephanie Efthymiou
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Valentina Turchetti
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fatima Rahman
- Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Child Health Sciences & The Children's Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shazia Maqbool
- Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Child Health Sciences & The Children's Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Vincenzo Salpietro
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Shahnaz H Ibrahim
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Gabriella di Rosa
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Messina, Messina, 98100, Italy
| | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Maha Nasser Alharbi
- Maternity and Children Hospital Buraidah, Qassim Health Cluster, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Conchi Estaras
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anna C E Hurst
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Anna Chassevent
- Department of Neurogenetics, Neurology and Developmental Medicine Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Constance L Smith-Hicks
- Department of Neurogenetics, Neurology and Developmental Medicine Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Xavier de la Cruz
- Research Unit in Clinical and Translational Bioinformatics, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexander M Holtz
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - M J Hajianpour
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Claudine Rieubland
- Department of Human Genetics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Braun
- Department of Human Genetics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Siddharth Banka
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Health Innovation Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Deborah L French
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Heller
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Murielle Saade
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Fowzan S Alkuraya
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pankaj B Agrawal
- Division of Genetics & Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami School of Medicine and Holtz Children's Hospital, Jackson Heath System, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth J Bhoj
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marian A Martínez-Balbás
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona (IBMB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Naiara Akizu
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Long Y, Wang Y, Qu M, Zhang D, Zhang X, Zhang J. Combined inhibition of EZH2 and the autotaxin-LPA-LPA2 axis exerts synergistic antitumor effects on colon cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216226. [PMID: 37230222 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Autotaxin (ATX), also known as ENPP2, is the key enzyme in lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) production. LPA acts on its receptors on the cell membrane to promote cell proliferation and migration, and thus, the ATX-LPA axis plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. Clinical data analysis indicated that in colon cancer, there is a strong negative correlation between the expression of ATX and EZH2, the enzymatic catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Here, we demonstrated that ATX expression was epigenetically silenced by PRC2, which was recruited by MTF2 and catalyzed H3K27me3 modification in the ATX promoter region. EZH2 inhibition is a promising strategy for cancer treatment, and ATX expression is induced in colon cancer cells by EZH2 inhibitors. With both EZH2 and ATX as targets, their combined inhibition exerted synergistic antitumor effects on colon cancer cells. In addition, LPA receptor 2 (LPA2) deficiency significantly enhanced the sensitivity to EZH2 inhibitors in colon cancer cells. In summary, our study identified ATX as a novel PRC2 target gene and found that cotargeting EZH2 and the ATX-LPA-LPA2 axis may be a potential combination therapy strategy for colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Long
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Mengxia Qu
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Di Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Xiaotian Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
| | - Junjie Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, Department of Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
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Basta MD, Petruk S, Mazo A, Walker JL. Fibrosis-the tale of H3K27 histone methyltransferases and demethylases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1193344. [PMID: 37476157 PMCID: PMC10354294 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1193344] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, or excessive scarring, is characterized by the emergence of alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA)-expressing myofibroblasts and the excessive accumulation of fibrotic extracellular matrix (ECM). Currently, there is a lack of effective treatment options for fibrosis, highlighting an unmet need to identify new therapeutic targets. The acquisition of a fibrotic phenotype is associated with changes in chromatin structure, a key determinant of gene transcription activation and repression. The major repressive histone mark, H3K27me3, has been linked to dynamic changes in gene expression in fibrosis through alterations in chromatin structure. H3K27-specific homologous histone methylase (HMT) enzymes, Enhancer of zeste 1 and 2 (EZH1, EZH2), which are the alternative subunits of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) and demethylase (KDM) enzymes, Ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat, X chromosome (UTX), and Lysine demethylase 6B (KDM6B), are responsible for regulating methylation status of H3K27me3. In this review, we explore how these key enzymes regulate chromatin structure to alter gene expression in fibrosis, highlighting them as attractive targets for the treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan D. Basta
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Svetlana Petruk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alexander Mazo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Janice L. Walker
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Sun L, Li X, Luo H, Guo H, Zhang J, Chen Z, Lin F, Zhao G. EZH2 can be used as a therapeutic agent for inhibiting endothelial dysfunction. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115594. [PMID: 37207700 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115594] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a catalytic subunit of polycomb repressor complex 2 and plays important roles in endothelial cell homeostasis. EZH2 functionally methylates lysine 27 of histone H3 and represses gene expression through chromatin compaction. EZH2 mediates the effects of environmental stimuli by regulating endothelial functions, such as angiogenesis, endothelial barrier integrity, inflammatory signaling, and endothelial mesenchymal transition. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the significance of EZH2 in endothelial function. The aim of this review is to provide a concise summary of the roles EZH2 plays in endothelial function and elucidate its therapeutic potential in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Xuefang Li
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Huige Guo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Zhigang Chen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
| | - Guoan Zhao
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
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Guo R, Li J, Hu J, Fu Q, Yan Y, Xu S, Wang X, Jiao F. Combination of epidrugs with immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer immunotherapy: From theory to therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110417. [PMID: 37276826 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized treatment strategies in multiple types of cancer. However, the resistance and relapse as associated with the extreme complexity of cancer-immunity interactions remain a major challenge to be resolved. Owing to the epigenome plasticity of cancer and immune cells, a growing body of evidence has been presented indicating that epigenetic treatments have the potential to overcome current limitations of immunotherapy, thus providing a rationalefor the combination of ICIs with epigenetic agents (epidrugs). In this review, we first make an overview about the epigenetic regulations in tumor biology and immunodevelopment. Subsequently, a diverse array of inhibitory agents under investigations targeted epigenetic modulators (Azacitidine, Decitabine, Vorinostat, Romidepsin, Belinostat, Panobinostat, Tazemetostat, Enasidenib and Ivosidenib, etc.) and immune checkpoints (Atezolizmab, Avelumab, Cemiplimab, Durvalumb, Ipilimumab, Nivolumab and Pembrolizmab, etc.) to increase anticancer responses were described and the potential mechanisms were further discussed. Finally, we summarize the findings of clinical trials and provide a perspective for future clinical studies directed at investigating the combination of epidrugs with ICIs as a treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jixia Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jinxia Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Qiang Fu
- School of Pharmacology, Institute of Aging Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yunfei Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory & Health Service Training, 970 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Yantai 264002, PR China.
| | - Fei Jiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
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Zhang J, Yang T, Han M, Wang X, Yang W, Guo N, Ren Y, Cui W, Li S, Zhao Y, Zhai X, Jia L, Yang J, Wu C, Wang L. Gain-of-function mutations in the catalytic domain of DOT1L promote lung cancer malignant phenotypes via the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadc9273. [PMID: 37256945 PMCID: PMC10413674 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adc9273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is a lethal malignancy lacking effective therapies. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic enzyme mutations are closely related to the malignant phenotype of lung cancer. Here, we identified a series of gain-of-function mutations in the histone methyltransferase DOT1L. The strongest of them is R231Q, located in the catalytic DOT domain. R231Q can enhance the substrate binding ability of DOT1L. Moreover, R231Q promotes cell growth and drug resistance of lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic studies also revealed that the R231Q mutant specifically activates the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway by enriching H3K79me2 on the RAF1 promoter and epigenetically regulating the expression of downstream targets. The combination of a DOT1L inhibitor (SGC0946) and a MAPK/ERK axis inhibitor (binimetinib) can effectively reverse the R231Q-induced phenomena. Our results reveal gain-of-function mutations in an epigenetic enzyme and provide promising insights for the precise treatment of lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Mei Han
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Weiming Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Ning Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
| | - Yong Ren
- Department of Pathology, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of People's Liberation Army, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Shangxiao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yongshan Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xin Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Lina Jia
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jingyu Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Chunfu Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Lihui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Benxi Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Benxi 117004, China
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