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Novel insights for lncRNA MAGI2-AS3 in solid tumors. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111429. [PMID: 33761624 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) refer to elements of genomic transcription with more than 200 nucleotides that are not translated into proteins, but have crucial roles in cancer progression. MAGI2-AS3, a novel lncRNA, has been reported to be aberrantly expressed in many solid tumors. Increasingly, studies have demonstrated that MAGI2-AS3 expression is significantly correlated with patient clinical characteristics, and that MAGI2-AS3 can regulate multiple biological processes through target-gene regulation. Furthermore, MAGI2-AS3 may serve as both a diagnostic biomarker and as a promising therapeutic target against solid tumors. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the biological functions and related molecular mechanisms of MAGI2-AS3 in solid-tumor progression. We conclude that understanding MAGI2-AS3 properties may provide new insights into the diagnoses and treatments of solid tumors.
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Novel urinary protein biomarker panel for early diagnosis of gastric cancer. Br J Cancer 2020; 123:1656-1664. [PMID: 32934343 PMCID: PMC7686371 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the goal of discovering non-invasive biomarkers for early diagnosis of GC, we conducted a case-control study utilising urine samples from individuals with predominantly early GC vs. healthy control (HC). Methods Among urine samples from 372 patients, age- and sex-matched 282 patients were randomly divided into three groups: 18 patients in a discovery cohort; 176 patients in a training cohort and 88 patients in a validation cohort. Results Among urinary proteins identified in the comprehensive quantitative proteomics analysis, urinary levels of TFF1 (uTFF1) and ADAM12 (uADAM12) were significantly independent diagnostic biomarkers for GC, in addition to Helicobacter pylori status. A urinary biomarker panel combining uTFF1, uADAM12 and H. pylori significantly distinguished between HC and GC patients in both training and validation cohorts. On the analysis for sex-specific biomarkers, this combination panel demonstrated a good AUC of 0.858 for male GC, whereas another combination panel of uTFF1, uBARD1 and H. pylori also provided a good AUC of 0.893 for female GC. Notably, each panel could distinguish even stage I GC patients from HC patients (AUC = 0.850 for males; AUC = 0.845 for females). Conclusions Novel urinary protein biomarker panels represent promising non-invasive biomarkers for GC, including early-stage disease.
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Schumacher N, Rose-John S, Schmidt-Arras D. ADAM-Mediated Signalling Pathways in Gastrointestinal Cancer Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145133. [PMID: 32698506 PMCID: PMC7404302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour growth is not solely driven by tumour cell-intrinsic mechanisms, but also depends on paracrine signals provided by the tumour micro-environment. These signals comprise cytokines and growth factors that are synthesized as trans-membrane proteins and need to be liberated by limited proteolysis also termed ectodomain shedding. Members of the family of A disintegrin and metalloproteases (ADAM) are major mediators of ectodomain shedding and therefore initiators of paracrine signal transduction. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on how ADAM proteases on tumour cells but also on cells of the tumour micro-environment contribute to the formation of gastrointestinal tumours, and discuss how these processes can be exploited pharmacologically.
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Mechanisms of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Tumor Microenvironment in Helicobacter pylori-Induced Gastric Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041055. [PMID: 32340207 PMCID: PMC7225971 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most common human pathogens, affecting half of the world’s population. Approximately 20% of the infected patients develop gastric ulcers or neoplastic changes in the gastric stroma. An infection also leads to the progression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition within gastric tissue, increasing the probability of gastric cancer development. This paper aims to review the role of H. pylori and its virulence factors in epithelial–mesenchymal transition associated with malignant transformation within the gastric stroma. The reviewed factors included: CagA (cytotoxin-associated gene A) along with induction of cancer stem-cell properties and interaction with YAP (Yes-associated protein pathway), tumor necrosis factor α-inducing protein, Lpp20 lipoprotein, Afadin protein, penicillin-binding protein 1A, microRNA-29a-3p, programmed cell death protein 4, lysosomal-associated protein transmembrane 4β, cancer-associated fibroblasts, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The review summarizes the most recent findings, providing insight into potential molecular targets and new treatment strategies for gastric cancer.
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Lian C, Ruan L, Shang D, Wu Y, Lu Y, Lü P, Yang Y, Wei Y, Dong X, Ren D, Chen K, Liu H, Tu Z. Heparin-Binding Epidermal Growth Factor-Like Growth Factor as a Potent Target for Breast Cancer Therapy. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2016; 31:85-90. [DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2015.1956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Lian
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lingling Ruan
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Dongsheng Shang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yanfang Wu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yongjin Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Peng Lü
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yuhua Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yajun Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Dewan Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Keping Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Hanqing Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhigang Tu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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Xue J, Yang G, Ding H, Wang P, Wang C. Role of NSC319726 in ovarian cancer based on the bioinformatics analyses. Onco Targets Ther 2016; 8:3757-65. [PMID: 26719703 PMCID: PMC4689271 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s86343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of NSC319726 in ovarian cancer by bioinformatics analyses. Methods Gene expression profile GSE35972 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The data set contains six samples, including three samples of TOV112D cells untreated and three samples of TOV112D cells treated with NSC319726. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between untreated and treated samples were analyzed using the limma package. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis was performed using the signaling pathway impact analysis package, followed by the functional annotation of DEGs and protein–protein interaction network construction. Finally, the subnetwork was identified, and Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis was performed on the DEGs enriched in the subnetwork. Results A total of 120 upregulated and 126 downregulated DEGs were identified. Six Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways were significantly perturbed by DEGs, and the pathway of oocyte meiosis was identified as the most perturbed one. Oocyte meiosis was enriched by eight downregulated DEGs, such as ribosomal protein S6 kinase, 90 kDa, and polypeptide 6 (RPS6KA6). After functional annotation, eight transcription factors were upregulated (such as B-cell CLL/lymphoma 6 [BCL6]), and three transcription factors were downregulated. Seven tumor suppressor genes, such as forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), were upregulated. Additionally, in the protein–protein interaction network and subnetwork, cyclin B1 (CCNB1) and cell division cycle 20 (CDC20) were hub genes, which were also involved in the functions related to mitotic cell cycle. Conclusion NSC319726 may play an efficient role against ovarian cancer via targeting genes, such as RPS6KA6, BCL6, FOXO3, CCNB1, and CDC20, which are involved in oocyte meiosis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Xue
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Ding
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, People's Republic of China
| | - Pu Wang
- The Clinical Medical College of Jilin University (Grade 2013), People's Republic of China
| | - Changhong Wang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, People's Republic of China
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Shimura T, Dagher A, Sachdev M, Ebi M, Yamada T, Yamada T, Joh T, Moses MA. Urinary ADAM12 and MMP-9/NGAL complex detect the presence of gastric cancer. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2015; 8:240-8. [PMID: 25591790 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-14-0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although the early diagnosis of gastric cancer provides the opportunity for curative endoscopic resection, comprehensive screening endoscopy would be invasive and expensive. To date, there is a complete absence of clinically useful gastric cancer biomarkers. With the goal of discovering noninvasive biomarkers for the early diagnosis of gastric cancer, we have conducted a case-control study using urine samples from individuals with gastric cancer versus healthy control samples. Of the enrolled 106 patients from September, 2012 to April, 2013, a cohort of 70 patients composed of 35 patients with gastric cancer and 35 age- and sex-matched healthy controls was analyzed. The gastric cancer group was composed of stage IA of 62.9% (22/35). The urinary levels of MMP-9/NGAL complex (uMMP-9/NGAL) and ADAM12 (uADAM12) were significantly higher in the gastric cancer group compared with the healthy control group as determined by monospecific ELISAs (uMMP-9/NGAL: median, 85 pg/mL vs. 0 pg/mL; P = 0.020; uADAM12: median, 3.35 ng/mL vs. 1.44 ng/mL; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that both uMMP-9/NGAL and uADAM12 were significant, independent diagnostic biomarkers for gastric cancer. Moreover, MMP-9/NGAL activity was significantly elevated as determined by gelatin zymography. The combination of uMMP-9/NGAL with uADAM12 distinguished between control samples and gastric cancer samples with an AUC of 0.825 (P < 0.001) in an ROC analysis. Significantly, immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated a high coexpression of MMP-9 and NGAL (P < 0.001) and high expression of ADAM12 (P < 0.001) in gastric cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues (N = 35). In summary, uMMP-9/NGAL and uADAM12 are potential noninvasive biomarkers for gastric cancer, including early-stage disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takaya Shimura
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Adelle Dagher
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Monisha Sachdev
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Masahide Ebi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Tomonori Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Japanese Red Cross Nagoya Daini Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takashi Joh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Marsha A Moses
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Theocharis AD, Gialeli C, Bouris P, Giannopoulou E, Skandalis SS, Aletras AJ, Iozzo RV, Karamanos NK. Cell-matrix interactions: focus on proteoglycan-proteinase interplay and pharmacological targeting in cancer. FEBS J 2014; 281:5023-42. [PMID: 25333340 PMCID: PMC5036392 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Proteoglycans are major constituents of extracellular matrices, as well as cell surfaces and basement membranes. They play key roles in supporting the dynamic extracellular matrix by generating complex structural networks with other macromolecules and by regulating cellular phenotypes and signaling. It is becoming evident, however, that proteolytic enzymes are required partners for matrix remodeling and for modulating cell signaling via matrix constituents. Proteinases contribute to all stages of diseases, particularly cancer development and progression, and contextually participate in either the removal of damaged products or in the processing of matrix molecules and signaling receptors. The dynamic interplay between proteoglycans and proteolytic enzymes is a crucial biological step that contributes to the pathophysiology of cancer and inflammation. Moreover, proteoglycans are implicated in the expression and secretion of proteolytic enzymes and often modulate their activities. In this review, we describe the emerging biological roles of proteoglycans and proteinases, with a special emphasis on their complex interplay. We critically evaluate this important proteoglycan-proteinase interactome and discuss future challenges with respect to targeting this axis in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achilleas D. Theocharis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Chrisostomi Gialeli
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Bouris
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Efstathia Giannopoulou
- Clinical Oncology Laboratory, Division of Oncology, University Hospital of Patras, Patras Medical School, Patras 26110, Greece
| | - Spyros S. Skandalis
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Alexios J. Aletras
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Renato V. Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, and the Cancer Cell Biology and Signaling Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA
| | - Nikos K. Karamanos
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Res. Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece
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Schenk GJ, Dijkstra S, van het Hof AJ, van der Pol SMA, Drexhage JAR, van der Valk P, Reijerkerk A, van Horssen J, de Vries HE. Roles for HB-EGF and CD9 in multiple sclerosis. Glia 2013; 61:1890-905. [PMID: 24038577 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Early events in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesion formation are loss of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, immune cell trafficking into the central nervous system, and demyelination. To date, the molecular mechanisms underlying these pathogenic events are poorly understood. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) is a trophic factor that is induced by inflammatory stimuli and has previously been shown to interact with tetraspanins (TSPs), a family of transmembrane proteins that are involved in cellular migration and adhesion. Given the known roles of TSPs and HB-EGF, we hypothesized that HB-EGF and TSPs may play a role in the processes that underlie MS lesion formation. We examined the expression of HB-EGF and the TSPs CD9 and CD81 in MS brain and found that HB-EGF was highly induced in reactive astrocytes in active lesions. TSPs were constitutively expressed throughout normal appearing white matter and control white matter. In contrast, CD9 was reduced in demyelinated lesions and increased on blood vessels in lesion areas. In vitro studies revealed that expression of HB-EGF and TSPs is regulated during inflammation. Importantly, blocking either HB-EGF or CD9 significantly reduced the migration of monocytes across brain endothelial cell monolayers. Moreover, blocking CD9 strongly enhanced the barrier function of the BBB in vitro. Together, we demonstrate that these molecules are likely implicated in processes that are highly relevant for MS lesion formation, and therefore, HB-EGF and TSPs are promising therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geert J Schenk
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Section of Clinical Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Telmisartan inhibits cell proliferation by blocking nuclear translocation of ProHB-EGF C-terminal fragment in colon cancer cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56770. [PMID: 23451083 PMCID: PMC3579940 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Current treatment target toward advanced colorectal cancers is mainly focused on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling, but its additive effects with chemotherapy are still limited. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) cleaves the proheparin-binding epidermal growth factor like growth factor (proHB-EGF). And soluble HB-EGF activates EGFR. In parallel, the carboxy-terminal fragment of proHB-EGF (HB-EGF-CTF) translocates into the inner nuclear membrane, and subsequently exerts on the regulation of cell proliferation by binding nuclear promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) protein, a transcriptional repressor, thereby causing its nuclear export. We hypothesized that the inhibition of HB-EGF-CTF nuclear translocation may be a new strategy in preventing cell proliferation. Methods 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbor-13-acetate (TPA) was treated to activate ADAM. Nine-thousand chemical compounds were screened for their efficacies in blocking the binding of HB-EGF-CTF to promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) with Alphascreen system. The obtained candidates were then used to block the binding of HB-EGF-CTF to PLZF in colon cancer cells, HT29 and HCT116. Cell proliferation was investigated with a growth curve assay. The intracellular localization, and association between HB-EGF-CTF and PLZF, was assessed with immunofluorescent staining, and immunoprecipitation and Western blotting, respectively. The effects of obtained candidates on EGFR phosphorylation and on nuclear translocation of HB-EGF-CTF and export of PLZF during the angiotensin II type1 receptor (AT1R) knockdown were also investigated. Results Telmisartan and candesartan were found to be potential candidates. Telmisartan inhibited TPA-induced cell proliferation stronger than candesartan. Telmisartan, but not candesartan blocked the nuclear translocation of HB-EGF-CTF, and binding of HB-EGF-CTF to PLZF, during TPA stimulation. Both telmisartan and candesartan did not inhibit TPA-induced EGFR phosphorylation, and telmisartan, but not candesartan, inhibited TPA-induced nuclear translocation of HB-EGF-CTF after knockdown of AT1R. Conclusions The inhibition of HB-EGF-CTF nuclear translocation with telmisartan may be a novel strategy in preventing cell proliferation.
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miR-126&126* restored expressions play a tumor suppressor role by directly regulating ADAM9 and MMP7 in melanoma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56824. [PMID: 23437250 PMCID: PMC3578857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The abnormal expression of several microRNAs has a causal role in tumorigenesis with either antineoplastic or oncogenic functions. Here we demonstrated that miR-126 and miR-126* play a tumor suppressor role in human melanoma through the direct or indirect repression of several key oncogenic molecules. The expression levels of miR-126&126* were elevated in normal melanocytes and primary melanoma cell lines, whereas they markedly declined in metastatic cells. Indeed, the restored expression of miR-126&126* in two advanced melanoma cell lines was accompanied by a significant reduction of proliferation, invasion and chemotaxis in vitro as well as of growth and dissemination in vivo. In accordance, the reverse functional effects were obtained by knocking down miR-126&126* by transfecting antisense LNA oligonucleotides in melanoma cells. Looking for the effectors of these antineoplastic functions, we identified ADAM9 and MMP7, two metalloproteases playing a pivotal role in melanoma progression, as direct targets of miR-126&126*. In addition, as ADAM9 and MMP7 share a role in the proteolytic cleavage of the HB-EGF precursor, we looked for the effectiveness of this regulatory pathway in melanoma, confirming the decrease of HB-EGF activation as a consequence of miR-126&126*-dependent downmodulation of ADAM9 and MMP7. Finally, gene profile analyses showed that miR-126&126* reexpression was sufficient to inactivate other key signaling pathways involved in the oncogenic transformation, as PI3K/AKT and MAPK, and to restore melanogenesis, as indicated by KIT/MITF/TYR induction. In view of this miR-126&126* wide-ranging action, we believe that the replacement of these microRNAs might be considered a promising therapeutic approach.
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Shimura T, Yoshida M, Fukuda S, Ebi M, Hirata Y, Mizoshita T, Tanida S, Kataoka H, Kamiya T, Higashiyama S, Joh T. Nuclear translocation of the cytoplasmic domain of HB-EGF induces gastric cancer invasion. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:205. [PMID: 22646534 PMCID: PMC3414754 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Membrane-anchored heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (proHB-EGF) yields soluble HB-EGF, which is an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand, and a carboxy-terminal fragment of HB-EGF (HB-EGF-CTF) after ectodomain shedding. We previously reported that HB-EGF-CTF and unshed proHB-EGF which has the cytoplasmic domain of proHB-EGF (HB-EGF-C), translocate from the plasma membrane to the nucleus and regulate cell cycle after shedding stimuli. However, the significance of nuclear exported HB-EGF-C in human gastric cancer is unclear. Methods We investigated the relationship between intracellular localization of HB-EGF-C and clinical outcome in 96 gastric cancer patients treated with gastrectomy. Moreover, we established stable gastric cancer cell lines overexpressing wild-type HB-EGF (wt-HB-EGF) and mutated HB-EGF (HB-EGF-mC), which prevented HB-EGF-C nuclear translocation after shedding. Cell motility between these 2 gastric cancer cell lines was investigated using a transwell invasion assay and a wound healing assay. Results Of the 96 gastric cancer cases, HB-EGF-C immunoreactivity was detected in both the nucleus and cytoplasm in 19 cases (19.8 %) and in the cytoplasm only in 25 cases (26.0 %). The nuclear immunoreactivity of HB-EGF-C was significantly increased in stage pT3/4 tumors compared with pT1/2 tumors (T1/2 vs. T3/4: 11.1 % vs. 36.4 %, P < 0.01). The growth of wt-HB-EGF- and HB-EGF-mC-expressing cells significantly increased compared with control cells, but the growth of HB-EGF-mC-expressing cells was significantly decreased compared with wt-HB-EGF-expressing cells. Gastric cancer cell invasion obviously increased in wt-HB-EGF-expressing cells, but invasion in HB-EGF-mC-expressing cells showed a slight increase compared with control cells. Moreover, wt-HB-EGF overexpression increased the effectiveness of wound healing, but had no significant effect in HB-EGF-mC-expressing cells. Conclusions Both the function of HB-EGF as an EGFR ligand and a novel signal for HB-EGF-C nuclear translocation induce gastric cancer growth, whereas HB-EGF-C nuclear translocation independently plays a critical role in gastric cancer invasion. The present study demonstrated that HB-EGF-C nuclear translocation might be crucial in gastric cancer invasion. HB-EGF-C nuclear translocation may offer a prognostic marker and a new molecular target for gastric cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takaya Shimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Japan.
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Yoshida M, Shimura T, Fukuda S, Mizoshita T, Tanida S, Kataoka H, Kamiya T, Nakazawa T, Higashiyama S, Joh T. Nuclear translocation of pro-amphiregulin induces chemoresistance in gastric cancer. Cancer Sci 2012; 103:708-15. [PMID: 22320154 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2012.02204.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 12/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Amphiregulin (AR) is derived from a membrane-anchored form (proAR) by ectodomain shedding, and is a ligand that activates epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We have recently shown that proAR translocates from the plasma membrane to the nucleus after truncation of 11 amino acids at the C-terminus, which is independent of the conventional EGFR signaling pathway. Although proAR immunoreactivity has reportedly been detected in the nucleus of cancer cells, its biological meaning has never been investigated. This study was performed to investigate the roles of proAR nuclear translocation in human gastric cancer. We constructed proAR truncated 11 amino acids at the C-terminus (proARΔC11) that spontaneously translocates to the nucleus, and established proARΔC11-expression regulatable gastric cancer cells (MKN45, MKN28) using the tet-off system. Using these cells, we found that proAR nuclear translocation significantly induced chemoresistance in vitro and in vivo. Analyzing the relationship between immunoreactive localization of proAR and the clinical outcome for 46 advanced gastric cancer cases treated with chemotherapy, median survival time was 311 days in 16 patients with AR-positive staining in the nucleus and 387 days in 30 patients with AR-negative staining (P < 0.05). The present study demonstrates that proAR nuclear translocation increases resistance to anti-cancer drugs, which might be associated with poor prognosis in human gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michihiro Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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Efficient CRM197-mediated drug targeting to monocytes. J Control Release 2011; 158:139-47. [PMID: 21982901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.09.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Revised: 09/21/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Efficient delivery of drugs to specific cellular reservoirs is of particular importance for therapeutics that are not able to pass cellular barriers and that may have unwanted side effects in off-target tissues. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) is expressed on leukocytes and may be targeted for specific drug delivery using cross-reacting material (CRM)197, a non-toxic variant of diphtheria toxin and exogenous substrate for HB-EGF. We used fluorescently labeled CRM197 and CRM197-coated liposomes to investigate their potential use for drug delivery to leukocytes. We demonstrate that CRM197-guided systems are efficiently taken up by human leukocytes in vitro. CRM197 was also found to specifically target leukocytes in vivo in mice with components of the human immune system (HIS mice) and hamsters. Monocytes represent the most prominent subset of leukocytes that showed highly specific CRM197-mediated uptake. We therefore propose the application of CRM197 as a novel targeting approach in diseases that require the selective treatment of monocytes.
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Biweekly cetuximab and irinotecan as second-line therapy in patients with gastro-esophageal cancer previously treated with platinum. Gastric Cancer 2011; 14:219-25. [PMID: 21409520 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-011-0031-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until recently there has been no proven second-line therapy for patients with advanced gastro-esophageal cancer (GEC). Since 2004, Denmark has had a national health program where non-proven therapy can be offered to patients with advanced cancer, after approval by an expert panel appointed by the National Board of Health. This program has accelerated the introduction and implementation of new therapies in Denmark. Inspired by therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer, a combination of cetuximab and irinotecan (Cetiri) was chosen for second-line therapy in GEC patients. We report our experience with Cetiri as second-line therapy in patients with GEC. METHODS All patients had histologically confirmed GEC and all patients had progressive disease during or after first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy. The patients received cetuximab 500 mg/m(2) on day 1 and irinotecan 180 mg/m(2) on day 1 every 2nd week until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Toxicity was prospectively evaluated according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE) version 3.0. RESULTS From December 2007 to February 2009, 50 consecutive patients received Cetiri as second-line therapy. Median performance status (PS) was 1. The median number of courses was seven. Seven patients (14%) had a partial response. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 3.3 months and overall survival (OS) was 5.5 months; two patients are still alive without progressive disease. Major toxicities were: diarrhea (8%), fatigue (10%), neutropenia (16%), and febrile neutropenia (2%). CONCLUSION Cetiri every two weeks is a convenient and well-tolerated second-line regimen in GEC patients. A promising effect was seen in patients with PS 0-1 and in patients who developed a rash.
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Duffy MJ, Mullooly M, O'Donovan N, Sukor S, Crown J, Pierce A, McGowan PM. The ADAMs family of proteases: new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer? Clin Proteomics 2011; 8:9. [PMID: 21906355 PMCID: PMC3170276 DOI: 10.1186/1559-0275-8-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The ADAMs are transmembrane proteins implicated in proteolysis and cell adhesion. Forty gene members of the family have been identified, of which 21 are believed to be functional in humans. As proteases, their main substrates are the ectodomains of other transmembrane proteins. These substrates include precursor forms of growth factors, cytokines, growth factor receptors, cytokine receptors and several different types of adhesion molecules. Although altered expression of specific ADAMs has been implicated in different diseases, their best-documented role is in cancer formation and progression. ADAMs shown to play a role in cancer include ADAM9, ADAM10, ADAM12, ADAM15 and ADAM17. Two of the ADAMs, i.e., ADAM10 and 17 appear to promote cancer progression by releasing HER/EGFR ligands. The released ligands activate HER/EGFR signalling that culminates in increased cell proliferation, migration and survival. Consistent with a causative role in cancer, several ADAMs are emerging as potential cancer biomarkers for aiding cancer diagnosis and predicting patient outcome. Furthermore, a number of selective ADAM inhibitors, especially against ADAM10 and ADAM17, have been shown to have anti-cancer effects. At least one of these inhibitors is now undergoing clinical trials in patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Duffy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Maeve Mullooly
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Norma O'Donovan
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Sumainizah Sukor
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - John Crown
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Aisling Pierce
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Patricia M McGowan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin 4, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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17
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Yasumoto K, Yamada T, Kawashima A, Wang W, Li Q, Donev IS, Tacheuchi S, Mouri H, Yamashita K, Ohtsubo K, Yano S. The EGFR ligands amphiregulin and heparin-binding egf-like growth factor promote peritoneal carcinomatosis in CXCR4-expressing gastric cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:3619-30. [PMID: 21482691 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-2475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Peritoneal carcinomatosis, often associated with malignant ascites, is the most frequent cause of death in patients with advanced gastric cancer. We previously showed that the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis is involved in the development of peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer. Here, we investigated whether epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands are also involved in the development of peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The functional involvement of expression of the ErbB family of receptors and/or EGFR ligands was examined in CXCR4-expressing human gastric cancer cells and fibroblasts, clinical samples (primary tumors and ascites), and an animal model. RESULTS High concentration of the EGFR ligands amphiregulin and heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), as well as of CXCL12, were present in malignant ascites. Human gastric cancer cell lines and primary gastric tumors, with high potential to generate peritoneal carcinomatosis, expressed high levels of EGFR and CXCR4 mRNA and protein. Both amphiregulin and HB-EGF enhanced the proliferation, migration, and functional CXCR4 expression in highly CXCR4-expressing gastric cancer NUGC4 cells. Amphiregulin strongly enhanced the proliferation of NUGC4 cells, whereas HB-EGF markedly induced the migration of fibroblasts. Moreover, HB-EGF and CXCL12 together enhanced TNFα-converting enzyme (TACE)-dependent amphiregulin shedding from NUGC4 cells. In an experimental peritoneal carcinomatosis model in mice, cetuximab effectively reduced tumor growth and ascites formation. CONCLUSIONS Our results strongly suggest that the EGFR ligands amphiregulin and HB-EGF play an important role, interacting with the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis, in the development of peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer, indicating that these two axes may be potential therapeutic targets for peritoneal carcinomatosis of gastric carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Yasumoto
- Divisions of Surgical Oncology and Medical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
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Ebi M, Kataoka H, Shimura T, Kubota E, Hirata Y, Mizushima T, Mizoshita T, Tanaka M, Mabuchi M, Tsukamoto H, Tanida S, Kamiya T, Higashiyama S, Joh T. TGFβ induces proHB-EGF shedding and EGFR transactivation through ADAM activation in gastric cancer cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 402:449-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.09.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2010] [Accepted: 09/30/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
Spices and herbal remedies have been used since ancient times to treat a variety of disorders. It has been experimentally demonstrated that spices, herbs, and their extracts possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, lipid-lowering, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antimutagenic and anticancer activities, besides their gastroprotective and anti-ulcer activities. Despite a number of reports on the toxicity of herbs and spices, they are generally accepted as safer alternatives to conventional therapy against gastric ulcers. To this end, it is also believed, that excessive consumption of spices may favor the pathogenesis of gastric and duodenal ulcer and some studies have substantiated this common perception. Based on various in vivo experiments and clinical studies, on the effects of spices and herbs on gastric ulcers, it has indeed been shown that certain spices do possess remarkable anti-ulcer properties mediated by antisecretory, cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects and mechanisms regulated by nitric oxide, prostaglandins, non-protein sulfhydryl molecules and epidermal growth factor expression. Accordingly, their consumption may attenuate and help prevent peptic ulcer disease. In the present review, the beneficial effects of spices and herbal nutritive components on the gastric mucosa are discussed against the paradigm of their deleterious potential.
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Cetuximab plus oxaliplatin/leucovorin/5-fluorouracil in first-line metastatic gastric cancer: a phase II study of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Internistische Onkologie (AIO). Br J Cancer 2010; 102:500-5. [PMID: 20068568 PMCID: PMC2822949 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cetuximab enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy in several cancer types. This trial assessed the activity of cetuximab and chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer. METHODS Patients with previously untreated, metastatic, gastric cancer received cetuximab 400 mg m(-2) at first infusion followed by weekly infusions of 250 mg m(-2) combined with FUFOX (oxaliplatin 50 mg m(-2), 5-FU 2000 mg m(-2), and DL-folinic acid 200 mg m(-2) d1, 8, 15 and 22 qd36). The primary endpoint was tumour response. RESULTS Overall, 52 patients were enrolled. The most common grade 3/4 toxicities were diarrhoea (33%), and skin toxicity (24%). Efficacy was evaluable in 46 patients who showed a response rate of 65% (CI 95%: 50-79%) including four complete responses. Time to progression (TTP) was 7.6 months (CI 95%: 5.0-10.1 months) and overall survival (OS) was 9.5 months (CI 95%: 7.9-11.1 months). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was detectable in 60% of tumours but showed no correlation with treatment outcome. A KRAS mutation was found in only 1 of 32 (3%) tumour samples analysed. CONCLUSION Cetuximab plus FUFOX showed an interesting high response rate in metastatic gastric cancer. Cetuximab plus platinum-fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy is at present being investigated in a phase III randomised controlled trial.
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Kataoka H. EGFR ligands and their signaling scissors, ADAMs, as new molecular targets for anticancer treatments. J Dermatol Sci 2009; 56:148-53. [PMID: 19896805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2009.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2009] [Accepted: 10/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Members of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family of receptor tyrosine kinases and their ligands (EGFR ligands) are known to play crucial roles in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation, and in the survival of many types of cancer. HER family members are activated in cancer cells and are now considered to be useful molecular targets for cancer therapy. Recently, several new drugs, including monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors that target HER members, have been developed and clinically used to treat solid tumors. Members of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) family are thought to mediate the shedding of EGFR ligands and this event is critical for the production of soluble functional EGFR ligands. In melanoma cells, UV irradiation activates some ADAM members and induces melanoma cell growth through EGFR ligand shedding by activated ADAMs. These findings suggest that ADAM inhibitors are also candidate anticancer drugs acting via the blockade of HER family signaling pathways. After shedding of EGFR ligands by ADAMs, the carboxy-terminal fragments (CTFs) of EGFR ligands in the cytoplasm are translocated to the nucleus and induce cell proliferation by binding and exporting repressors and activating cyclin A and c-Myc. Based on these findings, the present molecular targeting therapy against HER members, EGFR and HER2, may not be sufficient, while ADAMs and nuclear translocation of the CTF of EGFR ligands are potential targets for the treatment of cancer, particularly malignancies that are dependent on the EGF family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Kataoka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.
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BCL6 degradation caused by the interaction with the C-terminus of pro-HB-EGF induces cyclin D2 expression in gastric cancers. Br J Cancer 2009; 100:1320-9. [PMID: 19337254 PMCID: PMC2676553 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BCL6 is a transcriptional repressor that has important functions in lymphocyte differentiation and lymphomagenesis, but there have been no reports of BCL6 expression in gastric cancers. In the present study, we investigated the BCL6 function in gastric cancers. Treatment with TPA resulted in BCL6 degradation and cyclin D2 upregulation. This phenomenon was inhibited by the suppression of the nuclear translocation of HB-EGF-CTF (C-terminal fragment of pro-HB-EGF). The HB-EGF-CTF nuclear translocation leads to the interaction of BCL6 with HB-EGF-CTF and the nuclear export of BCL6, and after that BCL6 degradation was mediated by ubiquitin/proteasome pathway. Real-time RT-PCR and siRNA targeting BCL6 revealed that BCL6 suppresses cyclin D2 expression. Our data indicate that BCL6 interacts with nuclear-translocated HB-EGF-CTF and that the nuclear export and degradation of BCL6 induces cyclin D2 upregulation. We performed immunohistochemical analyses of BCL6, HB-EGF and cyclin D2 in human gastric cancers. The inverse correlation between BCL6 and cyclin D2 was also found in HB-EGF-positive human gastric cancers. BCL6 degradation caused by the HB-EGF-CTF also might induce cyclin D2 expression in human gastric cancers. Inhibition of HB-EGF-CTF nuclear translocation and maintenance of BCL6 function are important for the regulation of gastric cancer progression.
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Yagi H, Yotsumoto F, Sonoda K, Kuroki M, Mekada E, Miyamoto S. Synergistic anti-tumor effect of paclitaxel with CRM197, an inhibitor of HB-EGF, in ovarian cancer. Int J Cancer 2009; 124:1429-39. [PMID: 19048624 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) plays a pivotal role in tumor growth and clinical outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer, leading to the validation of HB-EGF as a target for ovarian cancer therapy. In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of paclitaxel, as an anti-cancer agent, and CRM197, as a specific inhibitor off HB-EGF, in ovarian cancer. Paclitaxel induced transient ERK activation and sustained activation of JNK and p38 MAPK through the ectodomain shedding of HB-EGF in SKOV3 cells. In addition, the overexpression of HB-EGF in paclitaxel-treated SKOV3 cells resulted in modulation of paclitaxel-evoked MAPK signaling, including marked activation of ERK and Akt, and minimized activation of JNK and p38 MAPK, indicating that HB-EGF is involved in drug sensitivity through the balance of anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic signals induced by paclitaxel. The combination of paclitaxel with CRM197 had an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and enhanced apoptosis via the inhibition of ERK and Akt activation and the stimulation of p38 and JNK activation. More prominently, the administration of paclitaxel with CRM197 resulted in synergistic anti-tumor effects in SKOV3 cells and in SKOV3 cells overexpressing HB-EGF in xenografted mice. Accordingly, inhibitory agents against HB-EGF, such as CRM197, represent possible chemotherapeutic and chemosensitizing agents for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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