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Arthur A, Nejmi S, Franchini DM, Espinos E, Millevoi S. PD-L1 at the crossroad between RNA metabolism and immunosuppression. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:620-632. [PMID: 38824002 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) is a key component of tumor immunosuppression. The uneven therapeutic results of PD-L1 therapy have stimulated intensive studies to better understand the mechanisms underlying altered PD-L1 expression in cancer cells, and to determine whether, beyond its immune function, PD-L1 might have intracellular functions promoting tumor progression and resistance to treatments. In this Opinion, we focus on paradigmatic examples highlighting the central role of PD-L1 in post-transcriptional regulation, with PD-L1 being both a target and an effector of molecular mechanisms featured prominently in RNA research, such as RNA methylation, phase separation and RNA G-quadruplex structures, in order to highlight vulnerabilities on which future anti-PD-L1 therapies could be built.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Arthur
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037, CNRS UMR 5071, 31037 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31330 Toulouse, France; Equipe Labellisée Fondation ARC pour la recherche sur le cancer, Toulouse, France
| | - Sanae Nejmi
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037, CNRS UMR 5071, 31037 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31330 Toulouse, France; Equipe Labellisée Fondation ARC pour la recherche sur le cancer, Toulouse, France
| | - Don-Marc Franchini
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037, CNRS UMR 5071, 31037 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31330 Toulouse, France; Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, 31100 Toulouse, France; Laboratoire d'Excellence "TOUCAN-2", Toulouse, France; Institut Carnot Lymphome CALYM, Toulouse, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU), 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Estelle Espinos
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037, CNRS UMR 5071, 31037 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31330 Toulouse, France; Equipe Labellisée Fondation ARC pour la recherche sur le cancer, Toulouse, France
| | - Stefania Millevoi
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037, CNRS UMR 5071, 31037 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31330 Toulouse, France; Equipe Labellisée Fondation ARC pour la recherche sur le cancer, Toulouse, France.
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Lv R, Yao Y, Dong J, Chen Q. COL1A1, mediated by m6A methylation of METTL3, facilitates oral squamous cell carcinoma cell growth and metastasis. Odontology 2024:10.1007/s10266-024-00962-w. [PMID: 38900231 DOI: 10.1007/s10266-024-00962-w] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Collagen type I alpha1 (COL1A1) has been found to be abnormal expressed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues, but its role and mechanism in OSCC need to be further elucidated. The expression levels of COL1A1 and methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. Cell growth and metastasis were determined by CCK8, colony formation, EdU, flow cytometry and transwell assays. MeRIP, Co-IP and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to explore the interplay of COL1A1 and METTL3. COL1A1 mRNA stability was confirmed by Actinomycin D assay. Mice xenograft models were constructed to perform in vivo experiments. COL1A1 and METTL3 were upregulated in OSCC. COL1A1 knockdown suppressed OSCC cell growth and metastasis, while its overexpression had an opposite effect. The stability of COL1A1 mRNA was regulated by the m6A methylation of METTL3. METTL3 overexpression promoted OSCC cell growth and metastasis, and its knockdown-mediated OSCC cell function inhibition could be abolished by COL1A1 overexpression. Besides, silencing of METTL3 reduced OSCC tumor growth by reducing COL1A1 expression. METTL3-stabilized COL1A1 promoted OSCC progression, providing an exact molecular target for the treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruya Lv
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, No. 6 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China.
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China.
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, No. 6 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
| | - Jingjing Dong
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, No. 6 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Central Hospital, No. 6 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
- Department of Stomatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, Hubei, China
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Li Y, Jin H, Li Q, Shi L, Mao Y, Zhao L. The role of RNA methylation in tumor immunity and its potential in immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:130. [PMID: 38902779 PMCID: PMC11188252 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02041-8] [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: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation, a prevalent post-transcriptional modification, has garnered considerable attention in research circles. It exerts regulatory control over diverse biological functions by modulating RNA splicing, translation, transport, and stability. Notably, studies have illuminated the substantial impact of RNA methylation on tumor immunity. The primary types of RNA methylation encompass N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), and N7-methylguanosine (m7G), and 3-methylcytidine (m3C). Compelling evidence underscores the involvement of RNA methylation in regulating the tumor microenvironment (TME). By affecting RNA translation and stability through the "writers", "erasers" and "readers", RNA methylation exerts influence over the dysregulation of immune cells and immune factors. Consequently, RNA methylation plays a pivotal role in modulating tumor immunity and mediating various biological behaviors, encompassing proliferation, invasion, metastasis, etc. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms and functions of several RNA methylations, providing a comprehensive overview of their biological roles and underlying mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment and among immunocytes. By exploring how these RNA modifications mediate tumor immune evasion, we also examine their potential applications in immunotherapy. This review aims to provide novel insights and strategies for identifying novel targets in RNA methylation and advancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haoer Jin
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qingling Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liangrong Shi
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yitao Mao
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Luqing Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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4
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Hua X, Xu Q, Wu R, Sun W, Gu Y, Zhu S, Liu X, Lv T, Song Y. ALKBH5 promotes non-small cell lung cancer progression and susceptibility to anti-PD-L1 therapy by modulating interactions between tumor and macrophages. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:164. [PMID: 38872221 PMCID: PMC11177518 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03073-0] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the mechanisms that mediate the interaction between tumor and immune cells may provide therapeutic benefit to patients with cancer. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase, ALKBH5 (alkB homolog 5), is overexpressed in non-small cell lung cancer. However, its role in the tumor microenvironment is unknown. METHODS Datasets and tissue samples were used to determine the relationship between ALKBH5 expression and immunotherapy efficacy. Bioinformatic analysis, colorimetric assay to determine m6A RNA methylation, dual luciferase reporter assay, RNA/m6A-modified RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA stability assay, and RNA sequencing were used to investigate the regulatory mechanism of ALKBH5 in non-small cell lung cancer. In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to determine the contribution of ALKBH5 to the development of non-small cell lung cancer. RESULTS ALKBH5 was upregulated in primary non-small cell lung cancer tissues. ALKBH5 was positively correlated with programmed death-ligand 1 expression and macrophage infiltration and was associated with immunotherapy response. JAK2 was identified as a target of ALKBH5-mediated m6A modification, which activates the JAK2/p-STAT3 pathway to promote non-small cell lung cancer progression. ALKBH5 was found to recruit programmed death-ligand 1-positive tumor-associated macrophages and promote M2 macrophage polarization by inducing the secretion of CCL2 and CXCL10. ALKBH5 and tumor-associated macrophage-secreted IL-6 showed a synergistic effect to activate the JAK2/p-STAT3 pathway in cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS ALKBH5 promotes non-small cell lung cancer progression by regulating cancer and tumor-associated macrophage behavior through the JAK2/p-STAT3 pathway and the expression of CCL2 and CXCL10, respectively. These findings suggest that targeting ALKBH5 is a promising strategy of enhancing the anti-tumor immune response in patients with NSCLC and that identifying ALKBH5 status could facilitate prediction of clinical response to anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hua
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Qiuli Xu
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Ranpu Wu
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Yanli Gu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Suhua Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Tangfeng Lv
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China.
| | - Yong Song
- Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, 210003, China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China.
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Yu F, Feng Y, Wang Q, Sun J. N 6-methyladenosine (m 6A) Writer WTAP Potentiates Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Evasion and Aerobic Glycolysis. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01342-5. [PMID: 38872051 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01342-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of most prevalent malignant tumors with poor prognosis and a high mortality rate. Recent research indicates that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and tumor immunotherapy are important factors in HCC. More research is still needed to fully understand the profound roles that m6A writer Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP) and CD8+ T cells play in the antitumor immunity that prevents HCC from progressing. According to the findings of our investigation, WTAP was significantly elevated in HCC cells and was associated with a poor prognosis. Functionally, WTAP accelerated HCC immune evasion and aerobic glycolysis while suppressing the tumor-killing ability of CD8+ T cells. On the other hand, WTAP knockdown had the opposite effect. WTAP targets the m6A site on the 3'-UTR of PD-L1 mRNA, which mechanistically increases the stability of PD-L1 mRNA. These results showed that WTAP inhibited CD8+ T cells' antitumor activity, which in turn deteriorated HCC immune evasion and aerobic glycolysis. In conclusion, our research uncovers a novel mechanism for WTAP on the tumor-killing ability of CD8+ T cells, which helps to overcome HCC immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatao Yu
- Department of infectious disease, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255020, China
| | - Yuling Feng
- Department of infectious disease, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255020, China.
| | - Qing Wang
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255020, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of hepatobiliary surgery, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255020, China
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Yu F, Fang P, Fang Y, Chen D. Circ_0027791 contributes to the growth and immune evasion of hepatocellular carcinoma via the miR-496/programmed cell death ligand 1 axis in an m6A-dependent manner. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:3721-3733. [PMID: 38546290 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24188] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates the critical roles of circular RNAs in the development of multiple cancers, containing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, our present research reported the biological function and mechanism of circ_0027791 in HCC progression. Circ_0027791, microRNA-496 (miR-496), programmed cell death ligand 1 (PDL1), and methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) levels were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell viability, proliferation, invasion, and sphere formation ability were detected using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, transwell, and sphere formation assays. Macrophage polarization was detected using flow cytometry assay. To understand the role of circ_0027791 during the immune escape, HCC cells were cocultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells or cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells in vitro. A xenograft mouse model was applied to assess the function of circ_0027791 in vivo. After prediction using circinteractome and miRDB, the binding between miR-496 and circ_0027791 or PDL1 was validated based on a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Interaction between METTL3 and circ_0027791 was determined using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP)-qPCR, RIP-qPCR, and RNA pull-down assays. Circ_0027791, PDL1, and METTL3 expression were upregulated, and miR-496 was decreased in HCC patients and cells. Moreover, circ_0027791 knockdown might repress proliferation, invasion, sphere formation, M2 macrophage polarization, and antitumor immune response. Circ_0027791 knockdown repressed HCC tumor growth in vivo. In mechanism, circ_0027791 functioned as a sponge for miR-496 to increase PDL1 expression. In addition, METTL3 mediated the m6A methylation of circ_0027791 and stabilized its expression. METTL3-induced circ_0027791 facilitated HCC cell progression partly regulating the miR-496/PDL1 axis, which provided a new prognostic and therapeutic marker for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Yu
- Department of Medical Technology, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, China
| | - Peifei Fang
- School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, Anhi, China
| | - Yonghong Fang
- Department of Medical Technology, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, China
| | - Daojun Chen
- Department of Medical Technology, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, China
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Xing Z, Xu Y, Xu X, Yang K, Qin S, Jiao Y, Wang L. Identification and validation of a novel risk model based on cuproptosis‑associated m6A for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:137. [PMID: 38778403 PMCID: PMC11110395 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01916-5] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent cancer with a poor survival rate due to anatomical limitations of the head and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Cuproptosis represents a novel cellular regulated death pathway, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common internal RNA modification in mRNA. They are intricately connected to tumor formation, progression, and prognosis. This study aimed to construct a risk model for HNSCC using a set of mRNAs associated with m6A regulators and cuproptosis genes (mcrmRNA). METHODS RNA-seq and clinical data of HNSCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed to develop a risk model through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. Survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed for the high- and low-risk groups. Additionally, the model was validated using the GSE41613 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GSEA and CIBERSORT were applied to investigate the immune microenvironment of HNSCC. RESULTS A risk model consisting of 32 mcrmRNA was developed using the LASSO analysis. The risk score of patients was confirmed to be an independent prognostic indicator by multivariate Cox analysis. The high-risk group exhibited a higher tumor mutation burden. Additionally, CIBERSORT analysis indicated varying levels of immune cell infiltration between the two groups. Significant disparities in drug sensitivity to common medications were also observed. Enrichment analysis further unveiled significant differences in metabolic pathways and RNA processing between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our risk model can predict outcomes for HNSCC patients and offers valuable insights for personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxu Xing
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yijun Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Kaiwen Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Songbing Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yang Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China.
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Wu C, Li L, Tang Q, Liao Q, Chen P, Guo C, Zeng Z, Xiong W. Role of m 6A modifications in immune evasion and immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:159. [PMID: 38761335 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02402-9] [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: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
RNA modification has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its pivotal role in tumorigenesis and immune surveillance. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent RNA modification, which can affect the expression of RNA by methylating adenylate at the sixth N position to regulate the occurrence and development of tumors. Dysregulation of m6A affects the activation of cancer-promoting pathways, destroys immune cell function, maintains immunosuppressive microenvironment, and promotes tumor cell growth. In this review, we delve into the latest insights into how abnormalities in m6A modification in both tumor and immune cells orchestrate immune evasion through the activation of signaling pathways. Furthermore, we explore how dysregulated m6A modification in tumor cells influences immune cells, thereby regulating tumor immune evasion via interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Lastly, we highlight recent discoveries regarding specific inhibitors of m6A modulators and the encapsulation of m6A-targeting nanomaterials for cancer therapy, discussing their potential applications in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lvyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Can Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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9
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Zhang YQ, Li J, Qin Z, Li DM, Ye FZ, Bei SH, Zhang XH, Feng L. METTL5 promotes gastric cancer progression via sphingomyelin metabolism. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1925-1946. [PMID: 38764837 PMCID: PMC11099429 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.1925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of gastric cancer (GC) has caused an enormous social burden worldwide. Accumulating studies have reported that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is closely related to tumor progression. METTL5 is a m6A methyltransferase that plays a pivotal role in maintaining the metabolic stability of cells. However, its aberrant regulation in GC has not been fully elucidated. AIM To excavate the role of METTL5 in the development of GC. METHODS METTL5 expression and clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed via The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and further verified via immunohistochemistry, western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in tissue microarrays and clinical samples. The tumor-promoting effect of METTL5 on HGC-27 and AGS cells was explored in vitro by Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, colony formation assays, scratch healing assays, transwell assays and flow cytometry. The tumor-promoting role of METTL5 in vivo was evaluated in a xenograft tumor model. The EpiQuik m6A RNA Methylation Quantification Kit was used for m6A quantification. Next, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to evaluate the association between METTL5 and sphingomyelin metabolism, which was confirmed by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and rescue tests. In addition, we investigated whether METTL5 affects the sensitivity of GC cells to cisplatin via colony formation and transwell experiments. RESULTS Our research revealed substantial upregulation of METTL5, which suggested a poor prognosis of GC patients. Increased METTL5 expression indicated distant lymph node metastasis, advanced cancer stage and pathological grade. An increased level of METTL5 correlated with a high degree of m6A methylation. METTL5 markedly promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells in vitro. METTL5 also promotes the growth of GC in animal models. METTL5 knockdown resulted in significant changes in sphingomyelin metabolism, which implies that METTL5 may impact the development of GC via sphingomyelin metabolism. In addition, high METTL5 expression led to cisplatin resistance. CONCLUSION METTL5 was found to be an oncogenic driver of GC and may be a new target for therapy since it facilitates GC carcinogenesis through sphingomyelin metabolism and cisplatin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Qiong Zhang
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Jian Li
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Zhe Qin
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - De-Ming Li
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Fang-Zhou Ye
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Song-Hua Bei
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhang
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Li Feng
- Endoscopy Center, Minhang Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
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10
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Li TF, Xu Z, Zhang K, Yang X, Thakur A, Zeng S, Yan Y, Liu W, Gao M. Effects and mechanisms of N6-methyladenosine RNA methylation in environmental pollutant-induced carcinogenesis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 277:116372. [PMID: 38669875 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Environmental pollution, including air pollution, plastic contamination, and heavy metal exposure, is a pressing global issue. This crisis contributes significantly to pollution-related diseases and is a critical risk factor for chronic health conditions, including cancer. Mounting evidence underscores the pivotal role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) as a crucial regulatory mechanism in pathological processes and cancer progression. Governed by m6A writers, erasers, and readers, m6A orchestrates alterations in target gene expression, consequently playing a vital role in a spectrum of RNA processes, covering mRNA processing, translation, degradation, splicing, nuclear export, and folding. Thus, there is a growing need to pinpoint specific m6A-regulated targets in environmental pollutant-induced carcinogenesis, an emerging area of research in cancer prevention. This review consolidates the understanding of m6A modification in environmental pollutant-induced tumorigenesis, explicitly examining its implications in lung, skin, and bladder cancer. We also investigate the biological mechanisms that underlie carcinogenesis originating from pollution. Specific m6A methylation pathways, such as the HIF1A/METTL3/IGF2BP3/BIRC5 network, METTL3/YTHDF1-mediated m6A modification of IL 24, METTL3/YTHDF2 dynamically catalyzed m6A modification of AKT1, METTL3-mediated m6A-modified oxidative stress, METTL16-mediated m6A modification, site-specific ATG13 methylation-mediated autophagy, and the role of m6A in up-regulating ribosome biogenesis, all come into play in this intricate process. Furthermore, we discuss the direction regarding the interplay between pollutants and RNA metabolism, particularly in immune response, providing new information on RNA modifications for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Fei Li
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation Research, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Xiaoxin Yang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Abhimanyu Thakur
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shuangshuang Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
| | - Wangrui Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Ming Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
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11
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Yu H, Liu J, Bu X, Ma Z, Yao Y, Li J, Zhang T, Song W, Xiao X, Sun Y, Xiong W, Shi J, Dai P, Xiang B, Duan H, Yan X, Wu F, Zhang WC, Lin D, Hu H, Zhang H, Slack FJ, He HH, Freeman GJ, Wei W, Zhang J. Targeting METTL3 reprograms the tumor microenvironment to improve cancer immunotherapy. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:776-791.e7. [PMID: 37751743 PMCID: PMC10954589 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous ecosystem containing cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, cytokines, and chemokines which together govern tumor progression and response to immunotherapies. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), a core catalytic subunit for RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Whether and how METTL3 regulates the TME and anti-tumor immunity in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain poorly understood. Here, we report that METTL3 elevates expression of pro-tumorigenic chemokines including CXCL1, CXCL5, and CCL20, and destabilizes PD-L1 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, thereby shaping a non-inflamed TME. Thus, inhibiting METTL3 reprograms a more inflamed TME that renders anti-PD-1 therapy more effective in several murine lung tumor models. Clinically, NSCLC patients who exhibit low-METTL3 expression have a better prognosis when receiving anti-PD-1 therapy. Collectively, our study highlights targeting METTL3 as a promising strategy to improve immunotherapy in NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haisheng Yu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xia Bu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Senior Department of Oncology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yingmeng Yao
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jinfeng Li
- Institute of Oncology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, The Fifth Medical Center, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wenjing Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiangling Xiao
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yishuang Sun
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Panpan Dai
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Bolin Xiang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Hongtao Duan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xiaolong Yan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Fei Wu
- Department of Urology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250021, P.R.China
| | - Wen Cai Zhang
- Department of Cancer Division, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida. Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Dandan Lin
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Hankun Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Haojian Zhang
- Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Frank J Slack
- Harvard Medical School Initiative for RNA Medicine, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Housheng Hansen He
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gordon J Freeman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Wenyi Wei
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Jinfang Zhang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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12
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Li R, Zhu C, Wang Y, Wang X, Wang Y, Wang J, Wang K. The relationship between the network of non-coding RNAs-molecular targets and N6-methyladenosine modification in tumors of urinary system. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:275. [PMID: 38632251 PMCID: PMC11024199 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06664-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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, a prevalent eukaryotic post-transcriptional modification, is involved in multiple biological functions, including mediating variable splicing, RNA maturation, transcription, and nuclear export, and also is vital for regulating RNA translation, stability, and cytoplasmic degradation. For example, m6A methylation can regulate pre-miRNA expression by affecting both splicing and maturation. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA), which includes microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), does not encode proteins but has powerful impacts on transcription and translation. Conversely, ncRNAs may impact m6A methylation by affecting the expression of m6A regulators, including miRNAs targeting mRNA of m6A regulators, or lncRNAs, and circRNAs, acting as scaffolds to regulate transcription of m6A regulatory factors. Dysregulation of m6A methylation is common in urinary tumors, and the regulatory role of ncRNAs is also important for these malignancies. This article provides a systematic review of the role and mechanisms of action of m6A methylation and ncRNAs in urinary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiming Li
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Chunming Zhu
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yibing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Jiahe Wang
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
| | - Kefeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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13
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Xu X, Qiu S, Zeng B, Huang Y, Wang X, Li F, Yang Y, Cao L, Zhang X, Wang J, Ma L. N 6-methyladenosine demethyltransferase FTO mediated m 6A modification of estrogen receptor alpha in non-small cell lung cancer tumorigenesis. Oncogene 2024; 43:1288-1302. [PMID: 38443681 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-02992-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), which is closely linked with obesity and dietary intake, plays an important role in diet-related metabolic diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethyltransferase FTO in tumor development and progression remains largely unexplored. Here, we demonstrated that FTO expression was largely lower in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) samples than in adjacent healthy tissues, and its expression negatively correlated with poor prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function assays revealed that FTO inhibited NSCLC tumor cell growth and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) is a target of FTO, and increased FTO expression significantly impaired the m6A levels of ESR1 mRNA. There were two clear m6A modification sites (5247A and 5409A) in the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of ESR1, and FTO could decrease their methylation. Moreover, the m6A readers YTHDF1 and IGF2BP3 recognized and bound the m6A sites in ESR1 mRNA, thereby enhancing its stability and facilitating tumor growth. We also showed that ESR1 has good diagnostic value for NSCLC. In conclusion, we uncovered an important mechanism of epitranscriptomic regulation by the FTO-YTHDF1-IGF2BP3-ESR1 axis and identified the potential of m6A-dependent therapeutic strategies for NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Shiyu Qiu
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Bingjie Zeng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yiwen Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xianzhao Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Fusheng Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yiran Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Leiqun Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Lifang Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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14
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Zhu C, Yang J, Zhang C, Wang Y, Wang J. Knowledge mapping and current trends of m6A methylation in the field of cancer. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26262. [PMID: 38434062 PMCID: PMC10906179 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is a serious threat to people's lives and health, killing millions of people every year. Here, we performed a bibliometric analysis of tumor N6-methyladenosine methylation data between 2001 and 2022 to understand research trends and potential future directions. Methods A total of 890 papers published in the Web of Science core collection database between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2022 were analyzed. Bibliometric analysis was performed using VOSviewer software to explore citations, co-authorship, co-citations, and co-occurrence. Results Although few papers were published before 2018, there was a rapid increase in publications after 2018. The People's Republic of China published 810 papers with 16,957 citations, both ranking first in the word. Sun Yat Sen University had the highest number of citations and published articles (67 published papers and 2702 citations), indicative of its active collaborative research status. Wang Xiao was the most co-cited author with 546 co-citations. Huang Yufei and Meng Jia ranked first with a link strength of 22, making them the most active collaborative authors. Frontiers in Oncology and Nature were the most active and co-cited journals, with 57 papers and 1953 co-citations, respectively. Studies of tumor N6-methyladenosine methylation can be divided into three categories: "tumor metabolism", "tumor bioinformatics and immunity", and "tumor progression". Conclusions This study systematically summarized the research on tumor N6-methyladenosine methylation during the past 20 years and suggested potential ways to explore its biomarkers and immunotherapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunming Zhu
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Chengpu Zhang
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yibing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jiahe Wang
- Department of Family Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
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15
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Deng H, Yao H, Zhou S, He C, Huang Y, Li Y, Chen H, Shu J. Pancancer analysis uncovers an immunological role and prognostic value of the m6A reader IGF2BP2 in pancreatic cancer. Mol Cell Probes 2024; 73:101948. [PMID: 38122949 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101948] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most malignant gastrointestinal tumors worldwide with a dismal prognosis and high relapse rate. PDAC is considered a "cold cancer" for which immunotherapy is not effective. Therefore, to improve the prognosis for PDAC patients, it is urgent to explore the mechanism driving its insensitivity to immunotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted pancancer analyses to test IGF2BP family expression and survival in patients with different cancers via TCGA and GETx databases. Then, we determined the immunological role and prognostic value of IGF2BP2 in vitro, in vivo and in clinical specimens. RESULTS In the present study, we found that the m6A reader IGF2BP2 was the most clinically relevant member of the IGF2BP family for pancreatic cancer. High expression of IGF2BP2 was most associated with poor prognosis and an immunosuppressive microenvironment in PDAC. By IGF2BP2 knockdown, we found that tumor cell proliferation and invasive ability were significantly diminished. Importantly, we found that IGF2BP2 expression was closely associated with high expression of immunosuppressive molecules such as PD-L1. IGF2BP2 modulated downstream PD-L1 expression by regulating its mRNA stability via m6A methylation control, and we obtained the same verification in animal experiments and human tissue specimens. CONCLUSION Our study contributes to existing knowledge regarding the IGF2BP2-regulated PD-L1 signaling pathway as a potential prognostic and immune biomarker in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Deng
- Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 511400, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, 8 East Fuyu Road Qiaonan Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Hanming Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Geriatrics Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shurui Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Chong He
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yuzhou Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Hanwei Chen
- Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 511400, China; Department of Radiology, Panyu Health Management Center (Panyu Rehabilitation Hospital), 688 West Yushan Road Shatou Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511400, China; Medical Imaging Institute of Panyu, 8 East Fuyu Road Qiaonan Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511400, China.
| | - Jianchang Shu
- Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Avenue West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 511400, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital Affiliated to Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510220, Guangdong, China.
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Liu X, Qiu Z, Zhang X, Su Z, Yi R, Zou D, Xie C, Jin N, Long W, Liu X. Generalized machine learning based on multi-omics data to profile the effect of ferroptosis pathway on prognosis and immunotherapy response in patients with bladder cancer. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:680-694. [PMID: 37647346 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23949] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bladder cancer (BLCA) affects millions of people worldwide, with high rates of incidence and mortality. Ferroptosis proves to be a novel form of cell death process that is triggered by oxidative stress. METHODS We procured a total of 25 single nuclear RNA-seq (snRNA-seq) samples from GSE169379 in GEO database. We obtained different cohorts of BLCA patients from the TCGA and GEO databases for model training and validation. A total of 369 ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) were selected from the FerrDb database. AUCell analysis was performed to assign ferroptosis scores to all the cell types. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), COX, and LASSO regression analysis were conducted to retain and finalize the genes of prognostic values. Various bioinformatic approaches were utilized to depict immune infiltration profile. We conducted a series of colony formation analysis, flow cytometry and western blot (WB) analysis to determine the role of SKAP1 in BLCA. RESULTS We divided the cells into high ferroptosis group and low ferroptosis group according to ferroptosis activity score, and then screened 2150 genes most associated with ferroptosis by differential expression analysis, which are related to UV-induced DNA damage, male hormone response, fatty acid metabolism and hypoxia. Subsequently, WGCNA algorithm further screened 741 ferroptosis related genes from the 2150 genes for the construction of prognostic model. Lasso-Cox regression analysis was used to construct the prognostic model, and the prognostic model consisting of 6 genes was obtained, namely JUN, SYT1, MAP3K8, GALNT14, TCIRG1, and SKAP1. Next, we constructed a nomogram model that integrated clinical factors to improving the accuracy. In addition, we performed drug sensitivity analyses in different subgroups and found that Staurosporine, Rapamycin, Gemcitabine, and BI-2536 may be candidates for the drugs treatment in high-risk populations. The ESTIMATE results showed higher stromal scores, immune scores, and ESTIMATE scores in the low-risk group, indicating a higher overall immunity level and immunogenicity of tumor microenvironment (TME) in this group, and tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) analysis confirmed a better response to immunotherapy in the low-risk group. Finally, we selected the oncogene SKAP1 in the prognostic gene for in vitro validation, and found that SKAP1 directly regulated BLCA cell proliferation and apoptosis. CONCLUSION We identified a set of six genes, JUN, SYT1, MAP3K8, GALNT14, TCIRG1, and SKAP1, that exhibited significant potential in stratification of BLCA patients with varying prognosis. In addition, we uncovered the direct regulatory effect of SKAP1 on BLCA cell proliferation and apoptosis, shedding some light on the role of FRGs in pathogenesis of BLCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Liu
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Ziran Qiu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Xiongfeng Zhang
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Zhouhua Su
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Renzheng Yi
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Debo Zou
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Chaoqun Xie
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Na Jin
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Weibing Long
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
| | - Xiaobing Liu
- Department of Urology, Loudi City Central Hospital, Loudi, China
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17
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Su W, Che L, Liao W, Huang H. The RNA m 6A writer METTL3 in tumor microenvironment: emerging roles and therapeutic implications. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1335774. [PMID: 38322265 PMCID: PMC10845340 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1335774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous ecosystem comprising cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, and various non-cellular components, all of which play critical roles in controlling tumor progression and response to immunotherapies. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the core component of N 6-methyladenosine (m6A) writer, is frequently associated with abnormalities in the m6A epitranscriptome in different cancer types, impacting both cancer cells and the surrounding TME. While the impact of METTL3 on cancer cells has been extensively reviewed, its roles in TME and anti-cancer immunity have not been comprehensively summarized. This review aims to systematically summarize the functions of METTL3 in TME, particularly its effects on tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We also elaborate on the underlying m6A-dependent mechanism. Additionally, we discuss ongoing endeavors towards developing METTL3 inhibitors, as well as the potential of targeting METTL3 to bolster the efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Su
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Che
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenting Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huilin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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Zhang HH, Zhang AQ, Peng P, Huang L, Liu CY, Nie XR, Hou DF, Zhang X, Li SZ. USP5 facilitates bladder cancer progression by stabilizing the c-Jun protein. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:32. [PMID: 38229092 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03222-7] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bladder cancer is the second most common genitourinary malignancy worldwide. The death rate of bladder cancer has increased every year. However, the molecular mechanism of bladder cancer is not sufficiently studied. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) play an important role in carcinogenesis. Several studies have demonstrated that USP5 associated with malignancy and pathological progression in hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal and non-small cell lung cancer. However, the role of USP5 in bladder cancer need to be explored. METHODS The USP5 expression was analysed using the web server GEPIA. To explore USP5 function in bladder cancer, we constructed USP5-knockout cell lines in T24 cells. A FLAG-USP5 (WT USP5) plasmid and a plasmid FLAG-USP5 C335A (catalytic-inactive mutant) used to overexpress USP5 in EJ cells. CCK8, colony formation, transwell and scratch assays were used to assess cell viability, proliferation and migration. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to screen the pathway. Coimmunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence were used to explore the interaction between USP5 and c-Jun. Cycloheximide (CHX) chase assays were performed to establish the effect of USP5 on c-Jun stability. Xenograft mouse model was used to study the role of USP5 in bladder cancer. RESULTS USP5 expression is increased in bladder cancer patients. Genetic ablation of USP5 markedly inhibited bladder cancer cell proliferation, viability, and migration both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq and luciferase pathway screening showed that USP5 activated JNK signalling, and we identified the interaction between USP5 and c-Jun. USP5 was found to activate c-Jun by inhibiting its ubiquitination. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that high USP5 expression promotes bladder cancer progression by stabilizing c-Jun and that USP5 is a potential therapeutic target in bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - An-Qi Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cai-Ying Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin-Rui Nie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - De-Fu Hou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Shang-Ze Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University School of Medicine, 371 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, 131 Yubei Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, China.
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19
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Zhou X, Chai K, Zhu H, Luo C, Zou X, Zou J, Zhang G. The role of the methyltransferase METTL3 in prostate cancer: a potential therapeutic target. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:8. [PMID: 38166703 PMCID: PMC10762986 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11741-1] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of prostate cancer (PCa), the most prevalent malignancy, is currently at the forefront. RNA modification is a subfield of the booming field of epigenetics. To date, more than 170 types of RNA modifications have been described, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant and well-characterized internal modification of mRNAs involved in various aspects of cancer progression. METTL3, the first identified key methyltransferase, regulates human mRNA and non-coding RNA expression in an m6A-dependent manner. This review elucidates the biological function and role of METTL3 in PCa and discusses the implications of METTL3 as a potential therapeutic target for future research directions and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuming Zhou
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Keqiang Chai
- Department of Urology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, 730900, China
| | - Hezhen Zhu
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Cong Luo
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zou
- Department of Urology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, 730900, China
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Junrong Zou
- Department of Urology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Baiyin, 730900, China
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Guoxi Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
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20
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Guo C, Zhou N, Lu Y, Mu M, Li Z, Zhang X, Tu L, Du J, Li X, Huang D, Xu Q, Zheng X. FGF19/FGFR4 signaling contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma survival and immune escape by regulating IGF2BP1-mediated expression of PD-L1. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:115955. [PMID: 38048735 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune-checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies have been widely used in clinical treatment of cancer patients, but only 20-30% of patients benefit from immunotherapy. Therefore, it is important to decipher the molecular mechanism of resistance to ICB and develop new combined treatment strategies. PD-L1 up-regulation in tumor cells contributes to the occurrence of immune escape. Increasing evidence shows that its transcription level is affected by multiple factors, which limits the objective response rate of ICB. Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), a member of the fibroblast growth factor family, is widely involved in the malignant progression of many tumors by binding to fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4). In this study, we confirmed that FGF19 acts as a driver gene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression by binding to FGFR4. The up-regulation of FGF19 and FGFR4 in HCC is associated with poor prognosis. We found that FGF19/FGFR4 promoted the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells by driving IGF2BP1 to promote PD-L1 expression. Knockdown of FGFR4 significantly reduced the expression of IGF2BP1/PD-L1 and inhibited the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells. These biological effects are achieved by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway. The combination of FGFR4 knockdown and anti-PD-1 antibody greatly suppressed tumor growth and enhanced the sensitivity of immunotherapy, highlighting the clinical significance of FGF19/FGFR4 activation in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqin Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Nana Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yisong Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Mingshan Mu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Zilin Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Linglan Tu
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jingyang Du
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiangyu Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Dongsheng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Qiuran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Xiaoliang Zheng
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Bioengineering, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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21
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Chai J, Yin S, Feng W, Zhang T, Ke C. The Role of Hypoxia-inducible Factor-1 in Bladder Cancer. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:827-834. [PMID: 37475553 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230720163448] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide and poses a significant hazard to human health. During the development of BC, hypoxia plays a crucial role. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a key transcription factor for hypoxic adaptation, which regulates the transcription of various genes, including inflammation, angiogenesis, and glycolytic metabolism. Recent studies have shown the precise role of HIF in various biological behaviors of BC. More importantly, a new antitumor medication targeting HIF-2 has been used to treat renal cancer. However, therapies targeting HIF-1 in BC have not yet been developed. In this review, we discussed how HIF-1 is expressed and affects the growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis of BC. At the same time, we investigated several HIF-1 inhibitors that provide new perspectives for targeting HIF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiagui Chai
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
| | - Sifan Yin
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
| | - Wenbo Feng
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
| | - Changxing Ke
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
- Yunnan Institute of Urology, Kunming, 650106, China
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22
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Gu J, Cao H, Chen X, Zhang XD, Thorne RF, Liu X. RNA m6A modifications regulate crosstalk between tumor metabolism and immunity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1829. [PMID: 38114887 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1829] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, m6A modifications in RNA transcripts have arisen as a hot topic in cancer research. Indeed, a number of independent studies have elaborated that the m6A modification impacts the behavior of tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, altering tumor cell metabolism along with the differentiation and functional activity of immune cells. This review elaborates on the links between RNA m6A modifications, tumor cell metabolism, and immune cell behavior, discussing this topic from the viewpoint of reciprocal regulation through "RNA m6A-tumor cell metabolism-immune cell behavior" and "RNA m6A-immune cell behavior-tumor cell metabolism" axes. In addition, we discuss the various factors affecting RNA m6A modifications in the tumor microenvironment, particularly the effects of hypoxia associated with cancer cell metabolism along with immune cell-secreted cytokines. Our analysis proposes the conclusion that RNA m6A modifications support widespread interactions between tumor metabolism and tumor immunity. With the current viewpoint that long-term cancer control must tackle cancer cell malignant behavior while strengthening anti-tumor immunity, the recognition of RNA m6A modifications as a key factor provides a new direction for the targeted therapy of tumors. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huake Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rick F Thorne
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
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23
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Liu CH, Zhang JJ, Zhang QJ, Dong Y, Shi ZD, Hong SH, He HG, Wu W, Han CH, Hao L. METTL3 regulates the proliferation, metastasis and EMT progression of bladder cancer through P3H4. Cell Signal 2024; 113:110971. [PMID: 37979898 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110971] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cancer, the most common malignant tumor in the urinary system, exhibits significantly up-regulated expression of P3H4, which is associated with pathological factors. The objective of this study was to elucidate the underlying mechanism of P3H4 in bladder cancer. Initially, we analyzed P3H4 gene expression using the TCGA database and evaluated P3H4 levels in clinical samples and various bladder cell lines. P3H4 was found to be markedly overexpressed in bladder cancer samples. Subsequently, bladder cancer cells were transfected with shRNA targeting P3H4 (sh-P3H4), sh-METTL3, and P3H4 overexpression vectors (P3H4 OE). Viability, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells were assessed using CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell assays. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the levels of EMT-associated proteins, while RNA stability assays determined the half-life of P3H4. Knockdown of P3H4 resulted in inhibition of bladder cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT progression. Mechanistically, METTL3 was found to regulate the mRNA stability of P3H4 in bladder cancer. Moreover, overexpression of P3H4 reversed the inhibitory effects of METTL3 knockdown on bladder cancer cell behaviors. Stable cell lines were established by infecting EJ cells with lentiviral vectors containing sh-METTL3 or P3H4 OE. These cells were then implanted into the skin of BALB/c nude mice, and IHC analysis was used to analyze the expression levels of EMT-associated proteins. In vivo studies demonstrated that inhibition of METTL3 suppressed bladder cancer growth and EMT through P3H4. In conclusion, our findings suggest that METTL3 regulates the proliferation, metastasis, and EMT progression of bladder cancer through P3H4, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hui Liu
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhang
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian-Jin Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Suqian First People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suqian 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Dong
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhen-Duo Shi
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Si-Hao Hong
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hou-Guang He
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cong-Hui Han
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Hao
- The Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China; Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, Jiangsu, China.
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24
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Zhou X, Zhu H, Luo C, Yan Z, Zheng G, Zou X, Zou J, Zhang G. The role of RNA modification in urological cancers: mechanisms and clinical potential. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:235. [PMID: 38117350 PMCID: PMC10733275 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00843-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA modification is a post-transcriptional level of regulation that is widely distributed in all types of RNAs, including mRNA, tRNA, rRNA, miRNA, and lncRNA, where N6-methyladenine (m6A) is the most abundant mRNA methylation modification. Significant evidence has depicted that m6A modifications are closely related to human diseases, especially cancer, and play pivotal roles in RNA transcription, splicing, stabilization, and translation processes. The most common urological cancers include prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancers, accounting for a certain proportion of human cancers, with an ever-increasing incidence and mortality. The recurrence, systemic metastasis, poor prognosis, and drug resistance of urologic tumors have prompted the identification of new therapeutic targets and mechanisms. Research on m6A modifications may provide new solutions to the current puzzles. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the key roles played by RNA modifications, especially m6A modifications, in urologic cancers, as well as recent research advances in diagnostics and molecularly targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuming Zhou
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Hezhen Zhu
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Cong Luo
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Zhaojie Yan
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Guansong Zheng
- First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zou
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Junrong Zou
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Guoxi Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
- Institute of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
- Jiangxi Engineering Technology Research Center of Calculi Prevention, Ganzhou, 341000, China.
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25
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Yue SY, Niu D, Liu XH, Li WY, Ding K, Fang HY, Wu XD, Li C, Guan Y, Du HX. BLCA prognostic model creation and validation based on immune gene-metabolic gene combination. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:232. [PMID: 38103068 PMCID: PMC10725402 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00853-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a prevalent urinary system malignancy. Understanding the interplay of immunological and metabolic genes in BLCA is crucial for prognosis and treatment. METHODS Immune/metabolism genes were extracted, their expression profiles analyzed. NMF clustering found prognostic genes. Immunocyte infiltration and tumor microenvironment were examined. Risk prognostic signature using Cox/LASSO methods was developed. Immunological Microenvironment and functional enrichment analysis explored. Immunotherapy response and somatic mutations evaluated. RT-qPCR validated gene expression. RESULTS We investigated these genes in 614 BLCA samples, identifying relevant prognostic genes. We developed a predictive feature and signature comprising 7 genes (POLE2, AHNAK, SHMT2, NR2F1, TFRC, OAS1, CHKB). This immune and metabolism-related gene (IMRG) signature showed superior predictive performance across multiple datasets and was independent of clinical indicators. Immunotherapy response and immune cell infiltration correlated with the risk score. Functional enrichment analysis revealed distinct biological pathways between low- and high-risk groups. The signature demonstrated higher prediction accuracy than other signatures. qRT-PCR confirmed differential gene expression and immunotherapy response. CONCLUSIONS The model in our work is a novel assessment tool to measure immunotherapy's effectiveness and anticipate BLCA patients' prognosis, offering new avenues for immunological biomarkers and targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Yu Yue
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Niu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Xian-Hong Liu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Yi Li
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Ding
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Ye Fang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Dong Wu
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu Guan
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
| | - He-Xi Du
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
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Peng C, Xiong F, Pu X, Hu Z, Yang Y, Qiao X, Jiang Y, Han M, Wang D, Li X. m 6A methylation modification and immune cell infiltration: implications for targeting the catalytic subunit m 6A-METTL complex in gastrointestinal cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1326031. [PMID: 38187373 PMCID: PMC10768557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1326031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation modification is a ubiquitous RNA modification involved in the regulation of various cellular processes, including regulation of RNA stability, metabolism, splicing and translation. Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are some of the world's most common and fatal cancers. Emerging evidence has shown that m6A modification is dynamically regulated by a complex network of enzymes and that the catalytic subunit m6A-METTL complex (MAC)-METTL3/14, a core component of m6A methyltransferases, participates in the development and progression of GI cancers. Furthermore, it has been shown that METTL3/14 modulates immune cell infiltration in an m6A-dependent manner in TIME (Tumor immune microenvironment), thereby altering the response of cancer cells to ICIs (Immune checkpoint inhibitors). Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for treating GI cancers. Moreover, targeting the expression of METTL3/14 and its downstream genes may improve patient response to immunotherapy. Therefore, understanding the role of MAC in the pathogenesis of GI cancers and its impact on immune cell infiltration may provide new insights into the development of effective therapeutic strategies for GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Peng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Fen Xiong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhangmin Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yufei Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xuehan Qiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yuchun Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Miao Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Deqiang Wang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiaoqin Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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Peng M, Chu X, Peng Y, Li D, Zhang Z, Wang W, Zhou X, Xiao D, Yang X. Targeted therapies in bladder cancer: signaling pathways, applications, and challenges. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e455. [PMID: 38107059 PMCID: PMC10724512 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.455] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies in men. Understanding molecular characteristics via studying signaling pathways has made tremendous breakthroughs in BC therapies. Thus, targeted therapies including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) have markedly improved advanced BC outcomes over the last few years. However, the considerable patients still progress after a period of treatment with current therapeutic regimens. Therefore, it is crucial to guide future drug development to improve BC survival, based on the molecular characteristics of BC and clinical outcomes of existing drugs. In this perspective, we summarize the applications and benefits of these targeted drugs and highlight our understanding of mechanisms of low response rates and immune escape of ICIs, ADCs toxicity, and TKI resistance. We also discuss potential solutions to these problems. In addition, we underscore the future drug development of targeting metabolic reprogramming and cancer stem cells (CSCs) with a deep understanding of their signaling pathways features. We expect that finding biomarkers, developing novo drugs and designing clinical trials with precisely selected patients and rationalized drugs will dramatically improve the quality of life and survival of patients with advanced BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Peng
- Department of PharmacyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xuetong Chu
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yan Peng
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Duo Li
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Weifan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaochen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Di Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Xiaoping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan ProvinceThe Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan ProvinceKey Laboratory of Chemical Biology & Traditional Chinese Medicine Research of Ministry of EducationDepartment of PharmacySchool of MedicineHunan Normal UniversityChangshaHunanChina
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Lu Y, Wang R, He S, Zhang Q, Wei J, Hu J, Ding Y. Downregulation of BUBR1 regulates the proliferation and cell cycle of breast cancer cells and increases the sensitivity of cells to cisplatin. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2023; 59:778-789. [PMID: 38048028 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-023-00823-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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a significant tissue for women's health worldwide. The spindle assembly checkpoint protein family includes BUBR1 (Bub1-related kinase or MAD3/Bub1b). High expression of BUBR1 promotes cell cycle disorders, leading to cell carcinogenesis and cancer progression. However, the underlying molecular mechanism and the role of BUBR1 in BC progression are unclear. The published dataset was analyzed to evaluate the clinical relevance of BUBR1. BUBR1 was knocked down in BC cells using shRNA. The CCK-8 assay was used to measure the cell viability, and mRNA and protein expression levels were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot (WB). Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Subcutaneous xenograft model was used to assess in vivo tumor growth. BUBR1 was found to be highly expressed in BC. The high expression of BUBR1 was associated with poor prognosis of BC patients. Upon BUBR1 knockdown using shRNA, the proliferation and metastatic ability of cells were decreased. Moreover, the cells with BUBR1 knockdown underwent cell cycle arrest. And the results showed that BUBR1 loss inhibited the phosphorylation of TAK1/JNK. In vitro and in vivo studies indicated the knockdown of BUBR1 rendered the BC cells more sensitive to cisplatin. In summary, BUBR1 may be a potential therapeutic target for BC and targeting BUBR1 may help overcome cisplatin resistance in BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Lu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Ruiqing Wang
- The Eye Center in the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Nanguan District, Ziqiang Street 218#, Changchun City, Jilin, 130041, China
| | - Song He
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Jiahui Wei
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Jinping Hu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Yu Ding
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin, 130062, China.
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Xu L, Li K, Li J, Xu F, Liang S, Kong Y, Chen B. IL-18 serves as a main effector of CAF-derived METTL3 against immunosuppression of NSCLC via driving NF-κB pathway. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2265625. [PMID: 37871286 PMCID: PMC10595399 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2265625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant modification in eukaryotic mRNA. However, its role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been completely elucidated.Objective: To explore whether methyltransferase like 3 (METTL3) in cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) affects the secretion of IL-18, which drives NSCLC cells to regulate PD-L1-mediated immunosuppression via the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway.Methods: Histopathological features of NSCLC tissues were identified by H&E and IHC staining. The levels of m6A writers (METTL3), IL-18 and NF-κB pathway related genes were assessed. The quantity of CD8+ T cells was evaluated by flow cytometry (FCM). The direct binding relationship between METTL3 and IL-18 mRNA was detected by RIP assay and RNA pulldown and confirmed by dual - luciferase reporter assay. The level of RNA m6A was detected by RNA m6A dot blot and meRIP assays. A heterotopic implantation model of NSCLC was established in NOD-SCID mice for further explore the effect of CAF derived METTL3 on immunosuppression of NSCLC in vivo.Results: Our results illustrated that METTL3 was down-regulated in CAFs, and CAF derived METTL3 alleviated PD-L1-mediated immunosuppression of NSCLC through IL-18. Subsequently, we found that IL-18 was main effector of CAF-derived METTL3 against immunosuppression of NSCLC, and IL-18 accelerated immunosuppression of NSCLC by driving NF-κB pathway. In vivo, METTL3 knockdown-derived CAFs accelerated immunosuppression of NSCLC.Conclusion: IL-18 served as a main effector of CAF-derived METTL3 against immunosuppression of NSCLC via driving NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Kang Li
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Jia Li
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Fang Xu
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Shuzhi Liang
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Yi Kong
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Bolin Chen
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
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Hu S, Yan X, Bian W, Ni B. The m6A reader IGF2BP1 manipulates BUB1B expression to affect malignant behaviors, stem cell properties, and immune resistance of non-small-cell lung cancer stem cells. Cytotechnology 2023; 75:517-532. [PMID: 37841956 PMCID: PMC10575838 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-023-00594-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most common internal modification in eukaryotic mRNA and an important mechanism for post-transcriptional regulation of genes. This study focuses on the role of the m6A reader insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) in the malignant behaviors of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and especially the cancer stem cells (CSCs). We obtained IGF2BP1 as an aberrantly upregulated gene linking to poor survival of patients with NSCLC by bioinformatics, and then confirmed increased IGF2BP1 expression in NSCLC tissues and cells, especially in the enriched CSCs. Knockdown of IGF2BP1 suppressed proliferation, mobility and epithelial-mesenchymal transition activity of NSCLC cells and CSCs, and it reduced stemness, self-renewal ability, xenograft tumorigenesis and immune resistance of the CSCs. IGF2BP1 was predicted to have a positive correlation with BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B (BUB1B), and it upregulated BUB1B expression through m6A modification. Further overexpression of BUB1B in CSCs counteracted the effects of IGF2BP1 silencing and restored the malignant phenotype, self-renewal, and immune resistance of CSCs in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, this work demonstrates that IGF2BP1 manipulates BUB1B expression to affect malignant behaviors, stem cell properties and immune resistance of NSCLC stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Hu
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Yan
- Physical Examination Center, Suzhou Jiulong Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Bian
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Ni
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 899, Pinghai Road, Gusu District, Suzhou, 215006 Jiangsu People’s Republic of China
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Jin Q, Qu H, Quan C. New insights into the regulation of METTL3 and its role in tumors. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:334. [PMID: 37996892 PMCID: PMC10732098 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01360-5] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the most abundant epigenetic modifications in RNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) affects RNA transcription, splicing, stability, and posttranscriptional translation. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), a key component of the m6A methyltransferase complex, dynamically regulates target genes expression through m6A modification. METTL3 has been found to play a critical role in tumorigenesis, tumor growth, metastasis, metabolic reprogramming, immune cell infiltration, and tumor drug resistance. As a result, the development of targeted drugs against METTL3 is becoming increasingly popular. This review systematically summarizes the factors that regulate METTL3 expression and explores the specific mechanisms by which METTL3 affects multiple tumor biological behaviors. We aim to provide fundamental support for tumor diagnosis and treatment, at the same time, to offer new ideas for the development of tumor-targeting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Jin
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Avenue, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Huinan Qu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Avenue, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengshi Quan
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Avenue, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China.
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Wang Z, Li H, Cai H, Liang J, Jiang Y, Song F, Hou C, Hou J. FTO Sensitizes Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma to Ferroptosis via Suppressing ACSL3 and GPX4. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16339. [PMID: 38003537 PMCID: PMC10671523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216339] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a newly established form of regulated cell death characterized by intracellular lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation that may be a promising cancer treatment strategy. However, the function and therapeutic value of ferroptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remain inadequately understood. In the present study, we investigated the biological role of the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) in ferroptosis in the context of OSCC. We found that OSCC had greater potential for ferroptosis, and FTO is associated with ferroptosis. Furthermore, higher FTO expression sensitized OSCC cells to ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, FTO suppressed the expression of anti-ferroptotic factors, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 3 (ACSL3) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), by demethylating the m6A modification on the mRNA of ACSL3 and GPX4 and decreasing their stability. Taken together, our findings revealed that FTO promotes ferroptosis through ACSL3 and GPX4 regulation. Thus, ferroptosis activation in OSCC with high FTO levels may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongshi Cai
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jianfeng Liang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yaoqi Jiang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Fan Song
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Chen Hou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jinsong Hou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan Road West, Guangzhou 510055, China; (Z.W.); (H.L.); (H.C.); (J.L.); (Y.J.); (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Wang R, Ye H, Yang B, Ao M, Yu X, Wu Y, Xi M, Hou M. m6A-modified circNFIX promotes ovarian cancer progression and immune escape via activating IL-6R/JAK1/STAT3 signaling by sponging miR-647. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:110879. [PMID: 37713785 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110879] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common gynecological malignant cancers. Our previous work confirmed that circNFIX acted as an oncogene in OC, which could promote malignant proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis. However, the role and mechanism of circNFIX in OC immune escape remain unclear. METHODS The RNA and protein levels were determined by qRT-PCR and western blot assays. The malignant phenotypes were tested by cell count kit-8, EdU staining, flow cytometry and transwell assays. The immune cytokines levels were measured by ELISA analysis. Molecular interactions were verified employing RNA immunoprecipitation, meRIP and dual luciferase methods. In vivo validation was performed by xenograft tumor and lung metastasis model. Hematoxylin & eosin and immunohistochemistry staining were used to observe the pathological changes. RESULTS The levels of circNFIX, PD-L1, and IL-6R were upregulated in OC tissues and cell lines, while miR-647 was downregulated. Functional assays showed that loss of circNFIX suppressed the growth, metastasis and immune escape of OC cells both in vitro and in vivo. On the molecular level, the m6A modification of circNFIX was elevated in OC cells, and its expression was positively correlated to m6A modification and depended on IGF2BP1 ∼ 3 recognition. Moreover, circNFIX acted as a competing endogenous RNA for miR-647 to upregulate IL-6R expression, thereby activating JAK/STAT3 signaling and elevating PD-L1 expression. Rescue assays revealed that co-silencing of miR-647 reversed the antitumor effects of circNFIX knockdown on cell proliferation, metastasis and immune escape of OC cells. CONCLUSION This study provided a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism about circNFIX in OC, demonstrating m6A activated-circNFIX accelerated OC development and immune escape via regulating miR-647/IL-6R/PD-L1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hui Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Bowen Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Mengyin Ao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiuzhang Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Mingrong Xi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Minmin Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University & Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
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Shen C, Liu J, Jiao W, Zhang X, Zhao X, Yang X, Wang Y. A feed-forward loop based on aerobic glycolysis and TGF-β between tumor-associated macrophages and bladder cancer cells promoted malignant progression and immune escape. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:12867-12880. [PMID: 37462772 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05164-5] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunotherapy with programmed cell death 1/ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) checkpoint inhibitors has revolutionized the systemic treatment of solid tumors, including bladder cancer. Previous studies have shown that enhanced glycolysis, tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) infiltration, and TGF-β secretion in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are closely related to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor immunotherapy resistance. However, the potential mechanism of their interaction in bladder cancer has not been fully uncovered. METHODS By coculturing bladder cancer cells and TAMs, we studied the relationship and interaction mechanism between tumor cell glycolysis, TAM functional remodeling, TGF-β positive feedback secretion, and PD-L1 mRNA m6A methylation in the bladder cancer microenvironment. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis and IHC staining found a close correlation between tumor glycolysis, M2 TAM infiltration, and the prognosis of bladder cancer patients. In Vitro experiments demonstrated that bladder cancer cells could re-educate M2 TAMs through lactate and promote TGF-β secretion via the HIF-1α signaling pathway. Reciprocally, in vitro, and in vivo experiments validated that M2 TAMs could promote glycolysis in bladder cancer cells by TGF-β via the Smad2/3 signaling pathways. Furthermore, M2 TAMs could also promote CSCs and EMT of bladder cancer cells. More importantly, we found M2 TAMs enhance PD-L1 mRNA m6A methylation by promoting METLL3 expression in bladder cancer via the TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway in the TME. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights a feed-forward loop based on aerobic glycolysis and TGF-β between M2 TAMs and bladder cancer cells, which may be a potential mechanism of malignant progression and immunotherapy resistance in bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengquan Shen
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Research Management and International Cooperation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Jiao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuezhou Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinzhao Zhao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuecheng Yang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yonghua Wang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No.16, Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Urology and Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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Xu L, Li K, Li J, Xu F, Liang S, Kong Y, Chen B. M2 macrophage exosomal LINC01001 promotes non-small cell lung cancer development by affecting METTL3 and glycolysis pathway. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1569-1580. [PMID: 37666899 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00661-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
There have been data showing that LINC01001 is highly expressed in lung cancer, but the effect of M2 macrophage exosomal LINC01001 to METTL3, glycolysis and immunity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been reported. In this study, we aimed to explore the regulatory effect and mechanism of M2 macrophage exosomal LINC01001 in NSCLC. The results of our study show that the verification of macrophage exosomes, it was confirmed that exosomes regulated proliferation, glucose intake, lactate production and ATP levels of NSCLC cells. Exosomes also promoted the expression of METTL3. Bioinformatics screening showed that LINC01001 regulated METTL3. Subsequent experiments revealed exosomal LINC01001 influenced the glycolysis processes of NSCLC cells. Through RIP, it was proved that LINC01001 functioned in combination with METTL3. Bioinformatics predicted that NASP was a METTL3-targeted gene. LINC01001 could also regulate NASP methylation. Tumorigenesis in mice also indicated that LINC01001 mediated METTL3 to stimulate the development of tumors. In this study, LINC01001 was successfully verified in the exosomes-derived from M2 macrophages. It was confirmed that LINC01001 could interact with METTL3 and regulate glycolysis process in NSCLC cells. LINC01001 also inhibited T cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Kang Li
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Jia Li
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Fang Xu
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Shuzhi Liang
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Yi Kong
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China.
| | - Bolin Chen
- The Second Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, P. R. China.
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Ning J, Hou X, Hao J, Zhang W, Shi Y, Huang Y, Ruan X, Zheng X, Gao M. METTL3 inhibition induced by M2 macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles drives anti-PD-1 therapy resistance via M6A-CD70-mediated immune suppression in thyroid cancer. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:2265-2279. [PMID: 37648786 PMCID: PMC10589295 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01217-x] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment options for advanced papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) refractory to standard therapies are limited. Although anti-PD-1 therapy has a manageable safety profile and has been effective in a small percentage of patients with advanced PTC and refractory ATC, the majority of the patients either do not respond or develop resistance to anti-PD-1 therapy. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is a critical determinant of the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, it is unclear whether and how m6A modification in tumor cells shapes the immune landscape of PTC and ATC. In this study, we performed bulk and single cell RNA sequencing analysis of PTC and ATC tissues, and found that low METTL3 expression not only correlated to poor response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) but was also associated with increased TNF family-related ligand-receptor interactions in the immunosuppressive Tregs and exhausted T cells. Furthermore, overexpression of METTL3 in PTC and ATC cells enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in a peripheral blood mononuclear cell humanized NCG (huPBMC-NCG) mouse model. Mechanistically, M2 macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles (M2 EVs) inhibited METTL3 expression in PTC and ATC cells via miR-21-5p. Downregulation of METTL3 promoted demethylation of CD70 mRNA, which prevented YTHDF2-mediated degradation of the transcripts. The stabilization of CD70 mRNA, and the subsequent upregulation in CD70 protein levels increased the abundance of the immunosuppressive Tregs and terminally exhausted T cells, thereby inducing resistance to anti-PD-1 therapy. Furthermore, blocking CD70 using cusatuzumab, a high-affinity monoclonal antibody, reversed the anti-PD-1 therapy resistance induced by M2 EVs in vivo. Finally, we demonstrated that METTL3 expression negatively correlated with CD70 expression and M2 macrophages and Tregs infiltration in PTC and ATC tissues. Our findings provide new insights into developing novel therapies for advanced PTC and ATC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junya Ning
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of General Surgery in Construction, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiukun Hou
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jie Hao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of General Surgery in Construction, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of General Surgery in Construction, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- The School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yi Shi
- The School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xianhui Ruan
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Xiangqian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Key Laboratory of General Surgery in Construction, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China.
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
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Hu J, Xue C, Wang Q. N 6-methyladenosine modification: an important player in the tumor immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115171. [PMID: 37494788 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115171] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The decoration of RNA with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a reversible post-transcriptional modification that plays an important regulatory role in all eukaryotic life activities. The m6A modification of RNA regulates the development and progression of tumors, including bladder cancer, melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) includes immune cells, cytokines, and cell surface molecules, which interact with each other and ultimately determine the flow of tumor immunity. The onset of cancer implies that the TIME has been reshaped into a pro-tumor state. The key to cancer treatment lies in reshaping the TIME to reset the anti-tumor immune response. Here, we have reviewed how RNA m6A modification affects the TIME, and discussed the merits of using m6A regulator inhibitors as an individual treatment strategy as well as in combination with immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxiang Hu
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingqing Wang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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38
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Ling X, Wang R, Lin L, Wu Y, Cheng W. N6-methyladenosine-modified microRNA-675 advances the development of gastrointestinal stromal tumors via inhibiting myosin phosphatase targeting protein 1. Genomics 2023; 115:110704. [PMID: 37678441 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2023.110704] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications influence gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) development, but the detailed molecular mechanisms have not been fully studied. Here, microRNA-675 was found to be aberrantly elevated in cancerous tissues and cells of GISTs, compared to the corresponding normal counterparts, and GISTs patients with high-expressed microRNA-675 have worse outcomes. Additional experiments confirmed that silencing of microRNA-675 hindered cell division, mobility and tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo, whereas triggered apoptotic cell death in GISTs cells. Furthermore, microRNA-675-ablation increased the expression levels of myosin phosphatase targeting protein 1 (MYPT1) to inactivate the tumor-initiating RhoA/NF2/YAP1 signal pathway, and downregulation of MYPT1 recovered the malignant phenotypes in microRNA-675-silenced GISTs cells. In addition, we evidenced that METTL3-mediated m6A modifications were essential for sustaining the stability of microRNA-675, and silencing of METTL3 restrained tumorigenesis of GISTs cells by regulating the microRNA-675/MYPT1 axis. To summarize, theMETTL3/m6A/microRNA-675/MYPT1 axis could be used as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of GISTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Ling
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Ruifeng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Litang Road No. 168, Changping District, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Luoqiang Lin
- Department of General Surgery, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuxuan Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Weipeng Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China
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Koch J, Neuberger M, Schmidt-Dengler M, Xu J, Carneiro VC, Ellinger J, Kriegmair MC, Nuhn P, Erben P, Michel MS, Helm M, Rodríguez-Paredes M, Nientiedt M, Lyko F. Reinvestigating the clinical relevance of the m 6A writer METTL3 in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. iScience 2023; 26:107300. [PMID: 37554463 PMCID: PMC10405067 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
METTL3 is the major writer of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) and has been associated with controversial roles in cancer. This is best illustrated in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB), where METTL3 was described to have both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive functions. Here, we reinvestigated the role of METTL3 in UCB. METTL3 knockout reduced the oncogenic phenotype and m6A levels of UCB cell lines. However, complete depletion of METTL3/m6A was not achieved due to selection of cells expressing alternative METTL3 isoforms. Systematic vulnerability and inhibitor response analyses suggested that uroepithelial cells depend on METTL3 for viability. Furthermore, expression and survival analyses of clinical data revealed a complex role for METTL3 in UCB, with decreased m6A mRNA levels in UCB tumors. Our results suggest that METTL3 expression may be a suitable diagnostic UCB biomarker, as the enzyme promotes UCB formation. However, the suitability of the enzyme as a therapeutic target should be evaluated carefully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Koch
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuel Neuberger
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martina Schmidt-Dengler
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jinyun Xu
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vitor Coutinho Carneiro
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Ellinger
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian C. Kriegmair
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Philipp Nuhn
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Philipp Erben
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maurice Stephan Michel
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Manuel Rodríguez-Paredes
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Malin Nientiedt
- Department of Urology and Urosurgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frank Lyko
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Wu Y, Du B, Lin M, Ji X, Lv C, Lai J. The identification of genes associated T-cell exhaustion and construction of prognostic signature to predict immunotherapy response in lung adenocarcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13415. [PMID: 37592010 PMCID: PMC10435542 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell exhaustion (Tex) is considered to be a reason for immunotherapy resistance and poor prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma. Therefore, we used weighted correlation network analysis to identify Tex-related genes in the cancer genome atlas (TCGA). Unsupervised clustering approach based on Tex-related genes divided patients into cluster 1 and cluster 2. Then, we utilized random forest and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator to identify nine key genes to construct a riskscore. Patients were classified as low or high-risk groups. The multivariate cox analysis showed the riskscore was an independent prognostic factor in TCGA and GSE72094 cohorts. Moreover, patients in cluster 2 with high riskscore had the worst prognosis. The immune response prediction analysis showed the low-risk group had higher immune, stromal, estimate scores, higher immunophenscore (IPS), and lower tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion score which suggested a better response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy in the low-risk group. In the meantime, we included two independent immunotherapy cohorts that also confirmed a better response to ICIs treatment in the low-risk group. Besides, we discovered differences in chemotherapy and targeted drug sensitivity between two groups. Finally, a nomogram was built to facilitate clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahua Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Street, Fuzhou, 350000, Fujian, China
| | - Bin Du
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Street, Fuzhou, 350000, Fujian, China
| | - Mingqiang Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fujian Medical University Cancer Hospital, Jin'an District, Fuzhou, 350000, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaohui Ji
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Chengliu Lv
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Street, Fuzhou, 350000, Fujian, China
| | - Jinhuo Lai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Street, Fuzhou, 350000, Fujian, China.
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Hu R, Liao P, Xu B, Qiu Y, Zhang H, Li Y. N6-methyladenosine RNA modifications: a potential therapeutic target for AML. Ann Hematol 2023:10.1007/s00277-023-05302-6. [PMID: 37548690 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05302-6] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification has recently emerged as an essential regulator of normal and malignant hematopoiesis. As a reversible epigenetic modification found in messenger RNAs and non-coding RNAs, m6A affects the fate of the modified RNA molecules. It is essential in most vital bioprocesses, contributing to cancer development. Here, we review the up-to-date knowledge of the pathological functions and underlying molecular mechanism of m6A modifications in normal hematopoiesis, leukemia pathogenesis, and drug response/resistance. At last, we discuss the critical role of m6A in immune response, the therapeutic potential of targeting m6A regulators, and the possible combination therapy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Hu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Peiyun Liao
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Binyan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingqi Qiu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Honghao Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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Qi YN, Liu Z, Hong LL, Li P, Ling ZQ. Methyltransferase-like proteins in cancer biology and potential therapeutic targeting. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:89. [PMID: 37533128 PMCID: PMC10394802 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01477-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA modification has recently become a significant process of gene regulation, and the methyltransferase-like (METTL) family of proteins plays a critical role in RNA modification, methylating various types of RNAs, including mRNA, tRNA, microRNA, rRNA, and mitochondrial RNAs. METTL proteins consist of a unique seven-beta-strand domain, which binds to the methyl donor SAM to catalyze methyl transfer. The most typical family member METTL3/METTL14 forms a methyltransferase complex involved in N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA, regulating tumor proliferation, metastasis and invasion, immunotherapy resistance, and metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells. METTL1, METTL4, METTL5, and METTL16 have also been recently identified to have some regulatory ability in tumorigenesis, and the rest of the METTL family members rely on their methyltransferase activity for methylation of different nucleotides, proteins, and small molecules, which regulate translation and affect processes such as cell differentiation and development. Herein, we summarize the literature on METTLs in the last three years to elucidate their roles in human cancers and provide a theoretical basis for their future use as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Qi
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, P.R. China
| | - Zhu Liu
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Lian-Lian Hong
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Pei Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, P.R. China.
| | - Zhi-Qiang Ling
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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Kong Y, Yu J, Ge S, Fan X. Novel insight into RNA modifications in tumor immunity: Promising targets to prevent tumor immune escape. Innovation (N Y) 2023; 4:100452. [PMID: 37485079 PMCID: PMC10362524 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2023.100452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An immunosuppressive state is a typical feature of the tumor microenvironment. Despite the dramatic success of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in preventing tumor cell escape from immune surveillance, primary and acquired resistance have limited its clinical use. Notably, recent clinical trials have shown that epigenetic drugs can significantly improve the outcome of ICI therapy in various cancers, indicating the importance of epigenetic modifications in immune regulation of tumors. Recently, RNA modifications (N6-methyladenosine [m6A], N1-methyladenosine [m1A], 5-methylcytosine [m5C], etc.), novel hotspot areas of epigenetic research, have been shown to play crucial roles in protumor and antitumor immunity. In this review, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how m6A, m1A, and m5C function in tumor immunity by directly regulating different immune cells as well as indirectly regulating tumor cells through different mechanisms, including modulating the expression of immune checkpoints, inducing metabolic reprogramming, and affecting the secretion of immune-related factors. Finally, we discuss the current status of strategies targeting RNA modifications to prevent tumor immune escape, highlighting their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
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Chen C, Chao Y, Zhang C, Hu W, Huang Y, Lv Y, Liu B, Ji D, Liu M, Yang B, Jiang L, Liang Y, Zhang H, Yuan G, Ying X, Ji W. TROP2 translation mediated by dual m 6A/m 7G RNA modifications promotes bladder cancer development. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216246. [PMID: 37268280 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
RNA modifications, including adenine methylation (m6A) of mRNA and guanine methylation (m7G) of tRNA, are crucial for the biological function of RNA. However, the mechanism underlying the translation of specific genes synergistically mediated by dual m6A/m7G RNA modifications in bladder cancer (BCa) remains unclear. We demonstrated that m6A methyltransferase METTL3-mediated programmable m6A modification of oncogene trophoblast cell surface protein 2 (TROP2) mRNA promoted its translation during malignant transformation of bladder epithelial cells. m7G methyltransferase METTL1 enhanced TROP2 translation by mediating m7G modification of certain tRNAs. TROP2 protein inhibition decreased the proliferation and invasion of BCa cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, synergistical knockout of METTL3/METTL1 inhibited BCa cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; however, TROP2 overexpression partially abrogated its effect. Furthermore, TROP2 expression was significantly positively correlated with the expression levels of METTL3 and METTL1 in BCa patients. Overall, our results revealed that METTL3/METTL1-mediated dual m6A/m7G RNA modifications enhanced TROP2 translation and promoted BCa development, indicating a novel RNA epigenetic mechanism in BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yinghui Chao
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wenyu Hu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yapeng Huang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yifan Lv
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Department of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Bixia Liu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Ding Ji
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mingrui Liu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Baotong Yang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Lujing Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yaomin Liang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Haiqing Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Gang Yuan
- Private Medical Service & Healthcare Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Xiaoling Ying
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China; Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Weidong Ji
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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45
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Xiao H, Zhao R, Meng W, Liao Y. Effects and translatomics characteristics of a small-molecule inhibitor of METTL3 against non-small cell lung cancer. J Pharm Anal 2023; 13:625-639. [PMID: 37440912 PMCID: PMC10334285 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the heterogeneity promotes drug resistance, and the restricted expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) limits the immunotherapy benefits. Based on the mechanisms related to translation regulation and the association with PD-L1 of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the novel small-molecule inhibitor STM2457 is assumed to be useful for the treatment of NSCLC. We evaluated the efficacy of STM2457 in vivo and in vitro and confirmed the effects of its inhibition on disease progression. Next, we explored the effect of STM2457 on METTL3 and revealed its effects on the inhibition of catalytic activity and upregulation of METTL3 protein expression. Importantly, we described the genome-wide characteristics of multiple omics data acquired from RNA sequencing, ribosome profiling, and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing data under STM2457 treatment or METTL3 knockout. We also constructed a model for the regulation of the translation of METTL3 and PD-L1. Finally, we found PD-L1 upregulation by STM2457 in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, STM2457 is a potential novel suppressor based on its inhibitory effect on tumor progression and may be able to overcome the heterogeneity based on its impact on the translatome. Furthermore, it can improve the immunotherapy outcomes based on PD-L1 upregulation in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Rong Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Wangyang Meng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yongde Liao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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46
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Zhuang H, Yu B, Tao D, Xu X, Xu Y, Wang J, Jiao Y, Wang L. The role of m6A methylation in therapy resistance in cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:91. [PMID: 37264402 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01782-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy resistance is the main cause of cancer treatment failure. The mechanism of therapy resistance is a hot topic in epigenetics. As one of the most common RNA modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in various processes of RNA metabolism, such as stability, splicing, transcription, translation, and degradation. A large number of studies have shown that m6A RNA methylation regulates the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells, but the role of m6A in cancer therapy resistance is unclear. In this review, we summarized the research progress related to the role of m6A in regulating therapy resistance in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengzhao Zhuang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Bo Yu
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Affiliated Jiangyin People's Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangyin, 214400, China
| | - Dan Tao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yijun Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Affiliated Jiangyin People's Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangyin, 214400, China.
| | - Yang Jiao
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China.
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47
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Zhu W, Zhao R, Guan X, Wang X. The emerging roles and mechanism of N6-methyladenosine (m 6A) modifications in urologic tumours progression. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1192495. [PMID: 37284313 PMCID: PMC10239868 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1192495] [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: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa), bladder cancer (BC), and renal cell cancer (RCC) are the most common urologic tumours in males. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), adenosine N6 methylation, is the most prevalent RNA modification in mammals. Increasing evidence suggests that m6A plays a crucial role in cancer development. In this review, we comprehensively analyzed the influence of m6A methylation on Prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and renal cell cancer and the relationship between the expression of relevant regulatory factors and their development and occurrence, which provides new insights and approaches for the early clinical diagnosis and targeted therapy of urologic malignancies.
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48
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Yang J, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:210. [PMID: 37217462 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01480-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Over decades, researchers have focused on the epigenetic control of DNA-templated processes. Histone modification, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, RNA modification, and noncoding RNAs modulate many biological processes that are crucial to the development of cancers. Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programs. A growing body of evidence suggests that the mechanisms of epigenetic modification are dysregulated in human cancers and might be excellent targets for tumor treatment. Epigenetics has also been shown to influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses. Thus, the development and application of epigenetic therapy and cancer immunotherapy and their combinations may have important implications for cancer treatment. Here, we present an up-to-date and thorough description of how epigenetic modifications in tumor cells influence immune cell responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and how epigenetics influence immune cells internally to modify the TME. Additionally, we highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer immunotherapy. Harnessing the complex interplay between epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop therapeutics that combine thereof is challenging but could yield significant benefits. The purpose of this review is to assist researchers in understanding how epigenetics impact immune responses in the TME, so that better cancer immunotherapies can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Meng W, Han Y, Li B, Li H. The diverse role of RNA methylation in esophageal cancer. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023. [PMID: 37070847 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is one of the major life-threatening diseases in the world. RNA methylation is the most common post-transcriptional modification and a wide-ranging regulatory system controlling gene expression. Numerous studies have revealed that dysregulation of RNA methylation is critical for cancer development and progression. However, the diverse role of RNA methylation and its regulators in esophageal cancer remains to be elucidated and summarized. In this review, we focus on the regulation of major RNA methylation, including m 6A, m 5C, and m 7G, as well as the expression patterns and clinical implications of its regulators in esophageal cancer. We systematically summarize how these RNA modifications affect the "life cycle" of target RNAs, including mRNA, microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and tRNA. The downstream signaling pathways associated with RNA methylation during the development and treatment of esophageal cancer are also discussed in detail. Further studies on how these modifications function together in the microenvironment of esophageal cancer will draw a clearer picture of the clinical application of novel and specific therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangyang Meng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yichao Han
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hecheng Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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50
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Chen X, Lu T, Cai Y, Han Y, Ding M, Chu Y, Zhou X, Wang X. KIAA1429-mediated m6A modification of CHST11 promotes progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma by regulating Hippo-YAP pathway. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2023; 28:32. [PMID: 37076815 PMCID: PMC10114474 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-023-00445-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been shown to participate in various essential biological processes by regulating the level of target genes. However, the function of m6A modification mediated by KIAA1429 [alias virus-like m6A methyltransferase-associated protein (VIRMA)] during the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remains undefined. METHODS The expression and clinical significance of KIAA1429 were verified by our clinical data. CRISPR/Cas9 mediated KIAA1429 deletion, and CRISPR/dCas9-VP64 for activating endogenous KIAA1429 was used to evaluate its biological function. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, luciferase activity assay, RNA stability experiments, and co-immunoprecipitation were performed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of KIAA1429 in DLBCL. Tumor xenograft models were established for in vivo experiments. RESULTS Dysregulated expression of m6A regulators was observed, and a novel predictive model based on m6A score was established in DLBCL. Additionally, elevated KIAA1429 expression was associated with poor prognosis of patients with DLBCL. Knockout of KIAA1429 repressed DLBCL cell proliferation, facilitated cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, induced apoptosis in vitro, and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, carbohydrate sulfotransferase 11 (CHST11) was identified as a downstream target of KIAA1429, which mediated m6A modification of CHST11 mRNA and then recruited YTHDF2 for reducing CHST11 stability and expression. Inhibition of CHST11 diminished MOB1B expression, resulting in inactivation of Hippo-YAP signaling, reprogramming the expression of Hippo target genes. CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed a new mechanism by which the Hippo-YAP pathway in DLBCL is inactivated by KIAA1429/YTHDF2-coupled epitranscriptional repression of CHST11, highlighting the potential of KIAA1429 as a novel predictive biomarker and therapeutic target for DLBCL progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Chen
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Tiange Lu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Yiqing Cai
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Yang Han
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Mengfei Ding
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Yurou Chu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangxiang Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 251006, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 251006, China.
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