1
|
Sun J, Zhang S, Wang M, Cheng H, Wang Y, He S, Zuo Q, Wang N, Li Q, Wang M. Cinobufacini enhances the therapeutic response of 5-Fluorouracil against gastric cancer by targeting cancer stem cells via AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling axis. Transl Oncol 2024; 47:102054. [PMID: 38970916 PMCID: PMC11282984 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.102054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) play crucial role in the development, recurrence, and resistance of gastric cancer (GC). Cinobufacini, a traditional Chinese medicine, offers significant advantages in improving tumor therapy. However, pre-clinical investigation into the antitumor effect and mechanism of Cinobufacini on GC is still lacking. Additionally, it has not been reported whether Cinobufacini is related to cancer stem cells (CSCs). METHODS The CCK-8, clone formation, EdU staining, transwell and wound healing experiments were performed to assess the cell toxicity of Cinobufacini and demonstrate the preventive effects of Cinobufacini on proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells. Elucidating the underlying mechanism of Cinobufacini in GC based on the transcriptome sequencing. Flow cytometry assays, sphere formation assays, subcutaneous xenograft model in nude mice, and immunofluorescent staining have been used to investigate whether the anti-GC effect of Cinobufacini is associated with GCSCs and enhancing therapeutic response to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). RESULTS Cinobufacini exerts minimal impact on normal human gastric epithelium cell GES-1, while significantly suppressing the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cell lines. Additionally, Cinobufacini attenuates the stemness of GCSCs by disrupting the AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling cascade. Moreover, Cinobufacin enhances the anti-tumor effects of 5-FU against GCSCs by reducing in vitro sphere formation and inhibiting subcutaneous graft tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Cinobufacini enhances the therapeutic response of 5-FU against GC by targeting CSCs via AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling axis. Our findings offer a crucial insight into the molecular mechanism of Cinobufacini's anticancer activity in GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiejie Sun
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Sufeng Zhang
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Hui Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Shiming He
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Qiang Zuo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230061, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China
| | - Qinglin Li
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
| | - Manman Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
da Silva AM, Yevdokimova V, Benoit YD. Sam68 is a druggable vulnerability point in cancer stem cells. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:441-456. [PMID: 37792222 PMCID: PMC11016129 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10145-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Sam68 (Src associated in mitosis of 68 kDa) is an RNA-binding and multifunctional protein extensively characterized in numerous cellular functions, such as RNA processing, cell cycle regulation, kinase- and growth factor signaling. Recent investigations highlighted Sam68 as a primary target of a class of reverse-turn peptidomimetic drugs, initially developed as inhibitors of Wnt/β-catenin mediated transcription. Further investigations on such compounds revealed their capacity to selectively eliminate cancer stem cell (CSC) activity upon engaging Sam68. This work highlighted previously unappreciated roles for Sam68 in the maintenance of neoplastic self-renewal and tumor-initiating functions. Here, we discuss the implication of Sam68 in tumorigenesis, where central findings support its contribution to chromatin regulation processes essential to CSCs. We also review advances in CSC-targeting drug discovery aiming to modulate Sam68 cellular distribution and protein-protein interactions. Ultimately, Sam68 constitutes a vulnerability point of CSCs and an attractive therapeutic target to impede neoplastic stemness in human tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Mendes da Silva
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Veronika Yevdokimova
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Yannick D Benoit
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada.
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gowd V, Kass JD, Sarkar N, Ramakrishnan P. Role of Sam68 as an adaptor protein in inflammatory signaling. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:89. [PMID: 38351330 PMCID: PMC10864426 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05108-9] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Sam68 is a ubiquitously expressed KH-domain containing RNA-binding protein highly studied for its involvement in regulating multiple steps of RNA metabolism. Sam68 also contains multiple protein-protein interaction regions such as proline-rich regions, tyrosine phosphorylation sites, and arginine methylation sites, all of which facilitate its participation as an adaptor protein in multiple signaling pathways, likely independent of its RNA-binding role. This review focuses on providing a comprehensive report on the adaptor roles of Sam68 in inflammatory signaling and inflammatory diseases. The insights presented here have the potential to open new avenues in inflammation research and justify targeting Sam68 to control aberrant inflammatory responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vemana Gowd
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 6526, Wolstein Research Building, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Joseph D'Amato Kass
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 6526, Wolstein Research Building, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Nandini Sarkar
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 6526, Wolstein Research Building, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Parameswaran Ramakrishnan
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 6526, Wolstein Research Building, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- The Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alyoussef A. Investigation of the Ability of Crocin to Treat Skin Cancer Chemically Induced in Mice via the Inhibition of the Wnt/β-Catenin and Fibrotic Pathway. Cureus 2023; 15:e38596. [PMID: 37284388 PMCID: PMC10239655 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Wnt pathway is a major pathway in the pathogenesis of skin cancer. Moreover, crocin is one of the carotenoid compounds present in the flowers of gardenia and crocus. Crocin is responsible for the characteristic color of saffron. Aims This study was conducted to discover the therapeutic effects of crocin against skin cancer induced in mice by blocking the Wnt pathway with subsequent effects on inflammation and fibrosis. Methods For the induction of skin cancer in mice, the application of DMBA and Croton oil was used. The dorsal skin was used for the evaluation of the gene and protein expression of TGF-β, SMAD, Wnt, β-catenin, TNF-α, and NFκB. Part of the skin is stained with Mallory trichrome. Results The use of crocin for treating skin cancer mice significantly reduced both the number of tumors and the number of scratches. In addition, crocin inhibited epidermal hyperplasia. Finally, crocin reduced the gene expression and protein levels of Wnt, β-catenin, SMAD, NFκB; TGF-β and TNF-α. Conclusions Crocin produced therapeutic effects against skin cancer induced in mice by blocking the expression of Wnt followed by blocking the pro-inflammatory pathway through downregulation of NFκB and TNF-α. In addition, crocin blocked the fibrosis pathway via the downregulation of TGF-β.
Collapse
|
5
|
Masibag AN, Bergin CJ, Haebe JR, Zouggar A, Shah MS, Sandouka T, Mendes da Silva A, Desrochers FM, Fournier-Morin A, Benoit YD. Pharmacological targeting of Sam68 functions in colorectal cancer stem cells. iScience 2021; 24:103442. [PMID: 34877499 PMCID: PMC8633986 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are documented to play a key role in tumorigenesis and therapy resistance. Despite significant progress in clinical oncology, CSC reservoirs remain elusive and difficult to eliminate. Reverse-turn peptidomimetics were characterized as disruptors of CBP/beta-Catenin interactions and represent a promising avenue to curb hyperactive canonical Wnt/beta-Catenin signaling in CSCs. Recent studies suggested Sam68 as a critical mediator of reverse-turn peptidomimetics response in CSC populations. Using computational and biochemical approaches we confirmed Sam68 as a primary target of reverse-turn peptidomimetics. Furthermore, we executed an in silico drug discovery pipeline to identify yet uncharacterized reverse-turn peptidomimetic structures displaying superior anti-CSC activity in transformed pluripotent and colorectal cancer cell models. Thus, we identified YB-0158 as a reverse-turn peptidomimetic small molecule with enhanced translational potential, altering key hallmarks of human colorectal CSCs in patient-derived ex vivo organoids and in vivo serial tumor transplantation. Sam68 is a direct protein target of reverse-turn peptidomimetic small molecules YB-0158 is a peptidomimetic structure with high predicted affinity for Sam68 YB-0158 elicits a cancer-selective response impeding main cancer stem cell hallmarks YB-0158 blocks cancer stem cell activity in tumor organoids and in vivo systems
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelique N Masibag
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Christopher J Bergin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Joshua R Haebe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Aïcha Zouggar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Muhammad S Shah
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Tamara Sandouka
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Amanda Mendes da Silva
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - François M Desrochers
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Aube Fournier-Morin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Yannick D Benoit
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Emerging role of G9a in cancer stemness and promises as a therapeutic target. Oncogenesis 2021; 10:76. [PMID: 34775469 PMCID: PMC8590690 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-021-00370-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone methyltransferase G9a is well-documented for its implication in neoplastic growth. However, recent investigations have demonstrated a key involvement of this chromatin writer in maintaining the self-renewal and tumor-initiating capacities of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Direct inhibition of G9a’s catalytic activity was reported as a promising therapeutic target in multiple preclinical studies. Yet, none of the available pharmacological inhibitors of G9a activity have shown success at the early stages of clinical testing. Here, we discuss central findings of oncogenic expression and activation of G9a in CSCs from different origins, as well as the impact of the suppression of G9a histone methyltransferase activity in such contexts. We will explore the challenges posed by direct and systemic inhibition of G9a activity in the perspective of clinical translation of documented small molecules. Finally, we will discuss recent advances in drug discovery as viable strategies to develop context-specific drugs, selectively targeting G9a in CSC populations.
Collapse
|
7
|
Regulation of P-glycoprotein by miR-27a-3p at the Brain Endothelial Barrier. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:1470-1479. [PMID: 34695419 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Multi-drug resistance P-glycoprotein (P-gp/MDR1) is one of the most clinically relevant ABC transporters, highly enriched at the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with a broad substrate spectrum including therapeutic drugs and metabolic waste products. Altered P-gp transport function has been implicated in multi-drug resistance and in the pathogenesis and progression of neurological diseases. Recent studies have shown that P-gp expression is modulated by micro-RNAs in peripheral organs. Particularly, miR-27a-3p has been shown to play a critical role in the regulation of P-gp in multi-drug resistant cancer cells. In brain disorders, altered levels of miR-27a-3p were reported in several diseases associated with alterations in P-gp expression at the BBB. However, effect of altered miR-27a-3p expression on P-gp expression at the BBB remains to be determined. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-27a-3p in the regulation of P-gp expression and activity at the brain endothelium. Levels of miR-27a-3p were modulated by mimic and inhibitor transfection in an in-vitro model of human brain endothelial hCMEC/D3 cells. Effect of miR-27a-3p modulation on P-gp expression and activity was examined and the underlying regulatory mechanisms explored. Our results showed that transfection of hCMEC/D3 cells with miR-27a-3p mimic induces expression and activity of P-gp while miR-27a-3p inhibition exerted opposite effects. Mechanistic studies revealed that miR-27a-3p regulates P-gp by mediating Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK3ß) inhibition and activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling. These findings shed light on miR-27a-3p/GSK3ß/ß-catenin as a novel axis that could be exploited to modulate P-gp efflux activity at the brain endothelium and help improving CNS diseases treatment or brain protection.
Collapse
|
8
|
Wu K, Zhai X, Huang S, Jiang L, Yu Z, Huang J. Protein Kinases: Potential Drug Targets Against Schistosoma japonicum. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:691757. [PMID: 34277472 PMCID: PMC8282181 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.691757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) infection can induce serious organ damage and cause schistosomiasis japonica which is mainly prevalent in Asia and currently one of the most seriously neglected tropical diseases. Treatment of schistosomiasis largely depends on the drug praziquantel (PZQ). However, PZQ exhibits low killing efficacy on juvenile worms and the potential emergence of its drug resistance is a continual concern. Protein kinases (PKs) are enzymes that catalyze the phosphorylation of proteins and can participate in many signaling pathways in vivo. Recent studies confirmed the essential roles of PKs in the growth and development of S. japonicum, as well as in schistosome-host interactions, and researches have screened drug targets about PKs from S. japonicum (SjPKs), which provide new opportunities of developing new treatments on schistosomiasis. The aim of this review is to present the current progress on SjPKs from classification, different functions and their potential to become drug targets compared with other schistosomes. The efficiency of related protein kinase inhibitors on schistosomes is highlighted. Finally, the current challenges and problems in the study of SjPKs are proposed, which can provide future guidance for developing anti-schistosomiasis drugs and vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaijuan Wu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xingyu Zhai
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuaiqin Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zheng Yu
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bergin CJ, Zouggar A, Haebe JR, Masibag AN, Desrochers FM, Reilley SY, Agrawal G, Benoit YD. G9a controls pluripotent-like identity and tumor-initiating function in human colorectal cancer. Oncogene 2020; 40:1191-1202. [PMID: 33323965 PMCID: PMC7878189 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01591-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal tumors are hierarchically organized and governed by populations of self-renewing cancer stem cells, representing one of the deadliest types of cancers worldwide. Emergence of cancer stemness phenotype depends on epigenetic reprogramming, associated with profound transcriptional changes. As described for pluripotent reprogramming, epigenetic modifiers play a key role in cancer stem cells by establishing embryonic stem-like transcriptional programs, thus impacting the balance between self-renewal and differentiation. We identified overexpression of histone methyltransferase G9a as a risk factor for colorectal cancer, associated with shorter relapse-free survival. Moreover, using human transformed pluripotent cells as a surrogate model for cancer stem cells, we observed that G9a activity is essential for the maintenance of embryonic-like transcriptional signature promoting self-renewal, tumorigenicity, and undifferentiated state. Such a role was also applicable to colorectal cancer, where inhibitors of G9a histone methyltransferase function induced intestinal differentiation while restricting tumor-initiating activity in patient-derived colorectal tumor samples. Finally, by integrating transcriptome profiling with G9a/H3K9me2 loci co-occupancy, we identified the canonical Wnt pathway, epithelial-to-mesenchyme transition, and extracellular matrix organization as potential targets of such a chromatin regulation mechanism in colorectal cancer stem cells. Overall, our findings provide novel insights on the role of G9a as a driver of cancer stem cell phenotype, promoting self-renewal, tumorigenicity, and undifferentiated state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Bergin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Aïcha Zouggar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Joshua R Haebe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Angelique N Masibag
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - François M Desrochers
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Simon Y Reilley
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Gautam Agrawal
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Yannick D Benoit
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
G9a Is SETting the Stage for Colorectal Oncogenesis. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11060616. [PMID: 32512705 PMCID: PMC7349591 DOI: 10.3390/genes11060616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, Kato et al. reported recurrent activating mutations in the SET domain of histone methyltransferase G9a, driving an oncogenic cascade in melanoma. The authors also reported correlations between G9a expression and the regulation of the canonical WNT pathway. Although we could not observe such mutations in human colorectal adenocarcinoma, newly reported findings are of high relevance to colorectal cancer, as WNT target gene signatures were closely associated with G9a expression. Here, we put into perspective such new results on G9a expression in colorectal cancers and the potential relationship with tumor heterogeneity and acquisition of neoplastic stemness.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jin XF, Spöttl G, Maurer J, Nölting S, Auernhammer CJ. Inhibition of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Neuroendocrine Tumors in vitro: Antitumoral Effects. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12020345. [PMID: 32033025 PMCID: PMC7072467 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12020345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by specific inhibitors is currently being investigated as an antitumoral strategy for various cancers. The role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in neuroendocrine tumors still needs to be further investigated. Methods: This study investigated the antitumor activity of the porcupine (PORCN) inhibitor WNT974 and the β-catenin inhibitor PRI-724 in human neuroendocrine tumor (NET) cell lines BON1, QGP-1, and NCI-H727 in vitro. NET cells were treated with WNT974, PRI-724, or small interfering ribonucleic acids against β-catenin, and subsequent analyses included cell viability assays, flow cytometric cell cycle analysis, caspase3/7 assays and Western blot analysis. Results: Treatment of NET cells with WNT974 significantly reduced NET cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner by inducing NET cell cycle arrest at the G1 and G2/M phases without inducing apoptosis. WNT974 primarily blocked Wnt/β-catenin signaling by the dose- and time-dependent downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) phosphorylation and non-phosphorylated β-catenin and total β-catenin, as well as the genes targeting the latter (c-Myc and cyclinD1). Furthermore, the WNT974-induced reduction of NET cell viability occurred through the inhibition of GSK-3-dependent or independent signaling (including pAKT/mTOR, pEGFR and pIGFR signaling). Similarly, treatment of NET cells with the β-catenin inhibitor PRI-724 caused significant growth inhibition, while the knockdown of β-catenin expression by siRNA reduced NET tumor cell viability of BON1 cells but not of NCI-H727 cells. Conclusions: The PORCN inhibitor WNT974 possesses antitumor properties in NET cell lines by inhibiting Wnt and related signaling. In addition, the β-catenin inhibitor PRI-724 possesses antitumor properties in NET cell lines. Future studies are needed to determine the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in NET as a potential therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Feng Jin
- Department of Internal Medicine 4, University-Hospital, Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (X.-F.J.); (G.S.); (J.M.); (S.N.)
| | - Gerald Spöttl
- Department of Internal Medicine 4, University-Hospital, Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (X.-F.J.); (G.S.); (J.M.); (S.N.)
| | - Julian Maurer
- Department of Internal Medicine 4, University-Hospital, Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (X.-F.J.); (G.S.); (J.M.); (S.N.)
| | - Svenja Nölting
- Department of Internal Medicine 4, University-Hospital, Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (X.-F.J.); (G.S.); (J.M.); (S.N.)
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neuroendocrine Tumors of the GastroEnteroPancreatic System (GEPNET-KUM), Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Josef Auernhammer
- Department of Internal Medicine 4, University-Hospital, Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (X.-F.J.); (G.S.); (J.M.); (S.N.)
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neuroendocrine Tumors of the GastroEnteroPancreatic System (GEPNET-KUM), Klinikum der Universitaet Muenchen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Qiao Y, Wang J, Karagoz E, Liang B, Song X, Shang R, Evert K, Xu M, Che L, Evert M, Calvisi DF, Tao J, Wang B, Monga SP, Chen X. Axis inhibition protein 1 (Axin1) Deletion-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis Requires Intact β-Catenin but Not Notch Cascade in Mice. Hepatology 2019; 70:2003-2017. [PMID: 30737831 PMCID: PMC7206928 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inactivating mutations of axis inhibition protein 1 (AXIN1), a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-Catenin cascade, are among the common genetic events in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), affecting approximately 10% of cases. In the present manuscript, we sought to define the genetic crosstalk between Axin1 mutants and Wnt/β-catenin as well as Notch signaling cascades along hepatocarcinogenesis. We discovered that c-MET activation and AXIN1 mutations occur concomitantly in ~3%-5% of human HCC samples. Subsequently, we generated a murine HCC model by means of CRISPR/Cas9-based gene deletion of Axin1 (sgAxin1) in combination with transposon-based expression of c-Met in the mouse liver (c-Met/sgAxin1). Global gene expression analysis of mouse normal liver, HCCs induced by c-Met/sgAxin1, and HCCs induced by c-Met/∆N90-β-Catenin revealed activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin and Notch signaling in c-Met/sgAxin1 HCCs. However, only a few of the canonical Wnt/β-Catenin target genes were induced in c-Met/sgAxin1 HCC when compared with corresponding lesions from c-Met/∆N90-β-Catenin mice. To study whether endogenous β-Catenin is required for c-Met/sgAxin1-driven HCC development, we expressed c-Met/sgAxin1 in liver-specific Ctnnb1 null mice, which completely prevented HCC development. Consistently, in AXIN1 mutant or null human HCC cell lines, silencing of β-Catenin strongly inhibited cell proliferation. In striking contrast, blocking the Notch cascade through expression of either the dominant negative form of the recombinant signal-binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J region (RBP-J) or the ablation of Notch2 did not significantly affect c-Met/sgAxin1-driven hepatocarcinogenesis. Conclusion: We demonstrated here that loss of Axin1 cooperates with c-Met to induce HCC in mice, in a β-Catenin signaling-dependent but Notch cascade-independent way.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qiao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China;,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jingxiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Eylul Karagoz
- Department of Medicine and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Binyong Liang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Hepatic Surgery Center, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinhua Song
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Runze Shang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Katja Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Meng Xu
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Li Che
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Junyan Tao
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Bruce Wang
- Department of Medicine and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Satdarshan P. Monga
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Alyoussef A, Taha M. Blocking Wnt as a therapeutic target in mice model of skin cancer. Arch Dermatol Res 2019; 311:595-605. [PMID: 31165240 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-019-01939-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Wnt pathway plays an important role in controlling metabolism in cancer cells. It acts as positive modulator for both cell inflammation, through activation of NFκB, and fibrosis, through activation of TGF-β. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effects of blocking Wnt pathway by IWP12 on skin cancer by studying its effects on skin cancer-induced inflammation and fibrosis in a mice model of skin cancer. Skin cancer was induced by application of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and croton oil on the dorsal skin of mice. Dorsal skin was removed for estimation of gene and protein expression of Wnt, β-catenin, SMAD, TGF-β, NFκB, TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-10. Part of the skin is stained with hematoxylin/eosin for assessment of cell structure. Treatment of mice with IWP12 completely blocked Wnt in skin cancer mice without affecting the control mice. Skin of tumorigenic mice showed marked skin hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, acanthosis and dysplasia. Treatment with IWP12 markedly attenuated epidermal atypia and hyperplasia. In addition, IWP12 reduced expression of β-catenin, SMAD, TGF-β, NFκB and TNF-α associated with increase in the expression of IL-4 and IL-10. In conclusion, blocking Wnt production ameliorated skin cancer via blocking pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, blocking Wnt attenuated skin cancer-induced activation of fibrosis pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Alyoussef
- Department of Internal Medicine (Dermatology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71471, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Medhat Taha
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, College of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen JS, Huang JQ, Luo B, Dong SH, Wang RC, Jiang ZK, Xie YK, Yi W, Wen GM, Zhong JF. PIK3CD induces cell growth and invasion by activating AKT/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling in colorectal cancer. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:997-1011. [PMID: 30618098 PMCID: PMC6398891 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The catalytic subunit p110δ of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) encoded by PIK3CD has been implicated in some human solid tumors. However, its roles in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain largely unknown. Here we found that PIK3CD was overexpressed in colon cancer tissues and CRC cell lines and was an independent predictor for overall survival (OS) of patients with colon cancer. The ectopic overexpression of PIK3CD significantly promoted CRC cell growth, migration and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. In contrast, inhibition of PIK3CD by specific small‐interfering RNA or idelalisib dramatically suppressed CRC cell growth, migration and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, PIK3CD overexpression increased AKT activity, nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and T‐cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF/LEF) transcriptional activity and decreased glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK‐3β) activity, whereas PIK3CD inhibition exhibited the opposite effects. Furthermore, PIK3CD‐mediated cell growth, migration and invasion were reversed by blockade of AKT signaling or depletion of β‐catenin. In addition, PIK3CD expression in colon cancer tissues positively correlated with β‐catenin abnormal expression, which was an independent predictor for OS of colon cancer patients. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that PIK3CD is an independent prognostic factor in CRC and that PIK3CD induces CRC cell growth, migration and invasion by activating AKT/GSK‐3β/β‐catenin signaling, suggesting that PIK3CD might be a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Song Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiong-Qiang Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bing Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shi-Hao Dong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong-Chang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Kun Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Kang Xie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Yi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang-Ming Wen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Feng Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Multiple studies focused on tumor heterogeneity and cellular hierarchies have demonstrated the role of cancer stem cells (CSC) in tumor initiation and recurrence. Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death and is hierarchically organized, with the majority of tumor cells descending from a small population of colon cancer stem cells (CCSCs). Such a rare self-renewing population is marked by the acquisition of distinct chromatin regulation and transcriptional programs. Fundamental molecular deviations between CCSCs and bulk tumor cells as well as normal tissues represent a unique therapeutic access to develop novel, selective anticancer therapies.In this chapter, we describe a methodological pipeline to identify novel molecules to selectively target human CCSC. We present a point-by-point description of a typical phenotypic molecular screening experiment, aiming to identify selective modulators of human CCSCs vs. normal intestinal progenitor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yannick D Benoit
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li J, Fang R, Wang J, Deng L. NOP14 inhibits melanoma proliferation and metastasis by regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 52:e7952. [PMID: 30484495 PMCID: PMC6262753 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20187952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer with a high mortality rate. Nucleolar protein 14 (NOP14) has been implicated in cancer development. However, the role of NOP14 in malignant melanoma progression remains largely unclear. In this study, we observed that malignant melanoma tissue showed NOP14 down-regulation compared to melanocytic nevi tissues. Moreover, we observed that NOP14 expression was significantly associated with melanoma tumor thickness and lymph node metastasis. NOP14 overexpression in melanoma cells suppressed proliferation, caused G1 phase arrest, promoted apoptosis, and inhibited melanoma cell migration and invasion. Further investigations revealed that NOP14 overexpression reduced the expression levels of Wnt3a, β-catenin, and GSK-3β of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In summary, we demonstrated that NOP14 inhibited melanoma cell proliferation and metastasis by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingrong Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruihua Fang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianqin Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liehua Deng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kovacs D, Migliano E, Muscardin L, Silipo V, Catricalà C, Picardo M, Bellei B. The role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in melanoma epithelial-to-mesenchymal-like switching: evidences from patients-derived cell lines. Oncotarget 2017; 7:43295-43314. [PMID: 27175588 PMCID: PMC5190024 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulations or mutations of WNT/β-catenin signaling have been associated to both tumour formation and progression. However, contradictory results concerning the role of β-catenin in human melanoma address an open question on its oncogenic nature and prognostic value in this tumour. Changes in WNT signaling pathways have been linked to phenotype switching of melanoma cells between a highly proliferative/non-invasive and a slow proliferative/metastatic condition. We used a novel panel of cell lines isolated from melanoma specimens, at initial passages, to investigate phenotype differences related to the levels and activity of WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. This in vitro cell system revealed a marked heterogeneity that comprises, in some cases, two distinct tumour-derived subpopulations of cells presenting a different activation level and cellular distribution of β-catenin. In cells derived from the same tumor, we demonstrated that the prevalence of LEF1 (high β-catenin expressing cells) or TCF4 (low β-catenin expressing cells) as β-catenin partner for DNA binding, is associated to the expression of two distinct profiles of WNT-responsive genes. Interestingly, melanoma cells expressing relative low level of β-catenin and an invasive markers signature were associated to the TNF-α-induced pro-inflammatory pathway and to the chemotherapy resistance, suggesting that the co-existence of melanoma subpopulations with distinct biological properties could influence the impact of chemo- and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Kovacs
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilia Migliano
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Muscardin
- Dermatopathological Laboratory, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Vitaliano Silipo
- Department of Oncologic Dermatology, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Catricalà
- Department of Oncologic Dermatology, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Picardo
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Bellei
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Choi H, Koh SH. Understanding the role of glycogen synthase kinase-3 in L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in Parkinson’s disease. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2017; 14:83-90. [DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2018.1417387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hojin Choi
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seong-Ho Koh
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Perrotti D, Silvestri G, Stramucci L, Yu J, Trotta R. Cellular and Molecular Networks in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: The Leukemic Stem, Progenitor and Stromal Cell Interplay. Curr Drug Targets 2017; 18:377-388. [PMID: 27307150 DOI: 10.2174/1389450117666160615074120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of imatinib, second and third generation ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) (i.e. dasatinib, nilotinib, bosutinib and ponatinib) made CML a clinically manageable and, in a small percentage of cases, a cured disease. TKI therapy also turned CML blastic transformation into a rare event; however, disease progression still occurs in those patients who are refractory, not compliant with TKI therapy or develop resistance to multiple TKIs. In the past few years, it became clear that the BCRABL1 oncogene does not operate alone to drive disease emergence, maintenance and progression. Indeed, it seems that bone marrow (BM) microenvironment-generated signals and cell autonomous BCRABL1 kinase-independent genetic and epigenetic alterations all contribute to: i. persistence of a quiescent leukemic stem cell (LSC) reservoir, ii. innate or acquired resistance to TKIs, and iii. progression into the fatal blast crisis stage. Herein, we review the intricate leukemic network in which aberrant, but finely tuned, survival, mitogenic and self-renewal signals are generated by leukemic progenitors, stromal cells, immune cells and metabolic microenvironmental conditions (e.g. hypoxia) to promote LSC maintenance and blastic transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Perrotti
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhao G, Zhou J, Gao J, Liu Y, Gu S, Zhang X, Su P. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis in permanent atrial fibrillation. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:5505-5514. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
21
|
In vitro and in vivo anti-uveal melanoma activity of JSL-1, a novel HDAC inhibitor. Cancer Lett 2017; 400:47-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
22
|
Ruvolo PP. GSK-3 as a novel prognostic indicator in leukemia. Adv Biol Regul 2017; 65:26-35. [PMID: 28499784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
While leukemias represent a diverse set of diseases with malignant cells derived from myeloid or lymphoid origin, a common feature is the dysregulation of signal transduction pathways that influence leukemogeneisis, promote drug resistance, and favor leukemia stem cells. Mutations in PI3K, PTEN, RAS, or other upstream regulators can activate the AKT kinase which has central roles in supporting cell proliferation and survival. A major target of AKT is Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 (GSK3). GSK3 has two isoforms (alpha and beta) that were studied as regulators of metabolism but emerged as central players in cancer in the early 1990s. GSK3 is unique in that the isoforms are constitutively active. Active GSK3 promotes destruction of oncogenic proteins such as beta Catenin, c-MYC, and MCL-1 and thus has tumor suppressor properties. In AML, inactivation of GSK3 is associated with poor overall survival. Interestingly in some leukemias GSK3 targets a tumor suppressor and thus the kinases can act as tumor promoters in those instances. An example is GSK3 targeting p27Kip1 in AML with MLL translocation. This review will cover the role of GSK3 in various leukemias both as tumor suppressor and tumor promoter. We will also briefly cover current state of GSK3 inhibitors for leukemia therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter P Ruvolo
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 448, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Teicher BA, Silvers T, Selby M, Delosh R, Laudeman J, Ogle C, Reinhart R, Parchment R, Krushkal J, Sonkin D, Rubinstein L, Morris J, Evans D. Small cell lung carcinoma cell line screen of etoposide/carboplatin plus a third agent. Cancer Med 2017; 6:1952-1964. [PMID: 28766886 PMCID: PMC5548882 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The SCLC combination screen examined a 9-point concentration response of 180 third agents, alone and in combination with etoposide/carboplatin. The predominant effect of adding a third agent to etoposide/carboplatin was additivity. Less than additive effects occurred frequently in SCLC lines sensitive to etoposide/carboplatin. In SCLC lines with little or no response to etoposide/carboplatin, greater than additive SCLC killing occurred over the entire spectrum of SCLC lines but never occurred in all SCLC lines. Exposing SCLC lines to tubulin-targeted agents (paclitaxel or vinorelbine) simultaneously with etoposide/carboplatin resulted primarily in less than additive cell killing. As single agents, nuclear kinase inhibitors including Aurora kinase inhibitors, Kinesin Spindle Protein/EG5 inhibitors, and Polo-like kinase-1 inhibitors were potent cytotoxic agents in SCLC lines; however, simultaneous exposure of the SCLC lines to these agents along with etoposide/carboplatin, generally, resulted in less than additive cell killing. Several classes of agents enhanced the cytotoxicity of etoposide/carboplatin toward the SCLC lines. Exposure of the SCLC lines to the MDM2 inhibitor JNJ-27291199 produced enhanced killing in 80% of the SCLC lines. Chk-1 inhibitors such as rabusertib increased the cytotoxicity of etoposide/carboplatin to the SCLC lines in an additive to greater than additive manner. The combination of GSK-3β inhibitor LY-2090314 with etoposide/carboplatin increased killing in approximately 40% of the SCLC lines. Exposure to the BET bromodomain inhibitor MK-8628 increased the SCLC cell killing by etoposide/carboplatin in 20-25% of the SCLC lines. Only 10-15% of the SCLC lines had an increased response to etoposide/carboplatin when simultaneously exposed to the PARP inhibitor talazoparib.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beverly A. Teicher
- Developmental Therapeutics ProgramDivision of Cancer Treatment and DiagnosisNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMaryland20892
| | - Thomas Silvers
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Michael Selby
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Rene Delosh
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Julie Laudeman
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Chad Ogle
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Russell Reinhart
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Ralph Parchment
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| | - Julia Krushkal
- Biometric Research ProgramDivision of Cancer Treatment and DiagnosisBethesdaMaryland20892
| | - Dmitriy Sonkin
- Biometric Research ProgramDivision of Cancer Treatment and DiagnosisBethesdaMaryland20892
| | - Larry Rubinstein
- Biometric Research ProgramDivision of Cancer Treatment and DiagnosisBethesdaMaryland20892
| | - Joel Morris
- Developmental Therapeutics ProgramDivision of Cancer Treatment and DiagnosisNational Cancer InstituteBethesdaMaryland20892
| | - David Evans
- Molecular Pharmacology GroupLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc.Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederickMaryland21702
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tamagnini F, Walsh DA, Brown JT, Bondulich MK, Hanger DP, Randall AD. Hippocampal neurophysiology is modified by a disease-associated C-terminal fragment of tau protein. Neurobiol Aging 2017; 60:44-56. [PMID: 28917666 PMCID: PMC5654728 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of cleaved tau fragments in the brain is associated with several tauopathies. For this reason, we recently developed a transgenic mouse that selectively accumulates a C-Terminal 35 kDa human tau fragment (Tau35). These animals develop progressive motor and spatial memory impairment, paralleled by increased hippocampal glycogen synthase kinase 3β activity. In this neurophysiological study, we focused on the CA1 subfield of the hippocampus, a brain area involved in memory encoding. The accumulation of Tau35 results in a significant increase of short-term facilitation of the synaptic response in the theta frequency range (10 Hz), without affecting basal synaptic transmission and long-term synaptic plasticity. Tau35 expression also alters the intrinsic excitability of CA1 pyramidal neurons. Thus, Tau35 presence is associated with increased and decreased excitability at hyperpolarized and depolarized potentials, respectively. These observations are paralleled by a hyperpolarization of the voltage-sensitivity of noninactivating K+ currents. Further investigation is needed to assess the causal link between such functional alterations and the cognitive and motor impairments previously observed in this model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tamagnini
- Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Darren A Walsh
- Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jon T Brown
- Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Marie K Bondulich
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, UK
| | - Diane P Hanger
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, UK
| | - Andrew D Randall
- Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Benoit YD, Mitchell RR, Risueño RM, Orlando L, Tanasijevic B, Boyd AL, Aslostovar L, Salci KR, Shapovalova Z, Russell J, Eguchi M, Golubeva D, Graham M, Xenocostas A, Trus MR, Foley R, Leber B, Collins TJ, Bhatia M. Sam68 Allows Selective Targeting of Human Cancer Stem Cells. Cell Chem Biol 2017. [PMID: 28648376 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2017.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Targeting of human cancer stem cells (CSCs) requires the identification of vulnerabilities unique to CSCs versus healthy resident stem cells (SCs). Unfortunately, dysregulated pathways that support transformed CSCs, such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling, are also critical regulators of healthy SCs. Using the ICG-001 and CWP family of small molecules, we reveal Sam68 as a previously unappreciated modulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling within CSCs. Disruption of CBP-β-catenin interaction via ICG-001/CWP induces the formation of a Sam68-CBP complex in CSCs that alters Wnt signaling toward apoptosis and differentiation induction. Our study identifies Sam68 as a regulator of human CSC vulnerability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yannick D Benoit
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Ryan R Mitchell
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Ruth M Risueño
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Luca Orlando
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Borko Tanasijevic
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Allison L Boyd
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Lili Aslostovar
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Kyle R Salci
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Zoya Shapovalova
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Jennifer Russell
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Masakatsu Eguchi
- Theriac Pharmaceutical Corporation Research Institute, 600 Broadway Suite 580 Fl 5, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
| | - Diana Golubeva
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Monica Graham
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Anargyros Xenocostas
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Schulich School of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Michael R Trus
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Ronan Foley
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Brian Leber
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Tony J Collins
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Mickie Bhatia
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 5029, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Guo CY, Yan C, Luo L, Goto S, Urata Y, Xu JJ, Wen XM, Kuang YK, Tou FF, Li TS. Enhanced expression of PKM2 associates with the biological properties of cancer stem cells from A549 human lung cancer cells. Oncol Rep 2017; 37:2161-2166. [PMID: 28259998 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells express the M2 isoform of glycolytic enzyme pyruvate kinase (PKM2) for favoring the survival under a hypoxic condition. Considering the relative low oxygen microenvironment in stem cell niche, we hypothesized that an enhanced PKM2 expression associates with the biological properties of cancer stem cells. We used A549 human lung cancer cell line and surgical resected lung cancer tissue samples from patients for experiments. We confirmed the co-localization of PKM2 and CD44, a popular marker for cancer stem cells in lung cancer tissue samples from patients. The expression of PKM2 was clearly observed in approximately 80% of the A549 human lung cancer cells. Remarkably, enhanced expression of PKM2 was specially observed in these cells that also positively expressed CD44. Downregulation of PKM2 in CD44+ cancer stem cells by siRNA significantly impaired the potency for spheroid formation, decreased the cell survival under fetal bovine serum deprivation and hypoxic conditions, but increased their sensitivity to anti-cancer drug of cisplatin and γ-ray. The enhanced expression of PKM2 seems to associate with the biological properties of cancer stem cells from A549 human lung cancer cells. Selective targeting of PKM2 may provide a new strategy for cancer therapy, especially for patients with therapeutic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Ying Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Chen Yan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Lan Luo
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Shinji Goto
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Yoshishige Urata
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Jian-Jun Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330029, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Kang Kuang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330029, P.R. China
| | - Fang-Fang Tou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330029, P.R. China
| | - Tao-Sheng Li
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Palomo V, Martinez A. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) inhibitors: a patent update (2014-2015). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2016; 27:657-666. [PMID: 27828716 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2017.1259412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3) is a serine/threonine kinase that phosphorylates more than one hundred different sequences within proteins in a variety of different pathways. It is a key component of a remarkably large number of cellular processes and diseases. Imbalance of GSK-3 activity is involved in various prevalent pathological diseases, such as diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Understanding its role in different disorders has been central in the last several decades and there has been a significantly large development of GSK-3 inhibitors, some of which, show promising results for the treatment of these devastating diseases. Areas covered: This review covers patent literature on GSK-3 inhibitors and their applications published and/or granted between 2014 and 2015. Expert opinion: GSK-3 inhibitors have gained a prominent role in regenerative medicine based in their ability to modulate stem cells. Moreover, some allosteric modulators of GSK-3 emerge as safe compounds for chronic treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valle Palomo
- a Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas-CSIC , Translational Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Laboratory , Madrid , Spain
| | - Ana Martinez
- a Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas-CSIC , Translational Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Laboratory , Madrid , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Katz TA, Yang Q, Treviño LS, Walker CL, Al-Hendy A. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals and uterine fibroids. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:967-77. [PMID: 27553264 PMCID: PMC5051569 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most frequent gynecologic tumor, affecting 70% to 80% of women over their lifetime. Although these tumors are benign, they can cause significant morbidity and may require invasive treatments such as myomectomy and hysterectomy. Many risk factors for these tumors have been identified, including environmental exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as genistein and diethylstilbestrol. Uterine development may be a particularly sensitive window to environmental exposures, as some perinatal EDC exposures have been shown to increase tumorigenesis in both rodent models and human epidemiologic studies. The mechanisms by which EDC exposures may increase tumorigenesis are still being elucidated, but epigenetic reprogramming of the developing uterus is an emerging hypothesis. Given the remarkably high incidence of uterine fibroids and their significant impact on women's health, understanding more about how prenatal exposures to EDCs (and other environmental agents) may increase fibroid risk could be key to developing prevention and treatment strategies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany A Katz
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Lindsey S Treviño
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Cheryl Lyn Walker
- Health Science Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
El-Ashmawy NE, Khedr EG, El-Bahrawy HA, Abd El-Fattah EE. Sorafenib effect on liver neoplastic changes in rats: more than a kinase inhibitor. Clin Exp Med 2016; 17:185-191. [PMID: 27085325 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-016-0416-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Although sorafenib was approved as antiangiogenic agent in case of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the pathways mediating its antitumorigenic effects were not fully examined in vivo. This study was conducted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the antineoplastic effect of sorafenib in livers of rats exposed to the hepatocarcinogen diethyl nitrosamine (DENA) regarding oxidative stress, proliferation, and apoptotic pathways. Male albino rats were divided into three groups: normal control, DENA group, and sorafenib group. Sorafenib (10 mg/kg) was given daily to rats orally for 2 weeks, started 6 weeks after DENA (200 mg/kg, single i.p. dose). The histopathological results proved that sorafenib corrected neoplastic changes in the liver as evidenced by a decrease in size of hepatocellular foci. The liver index, glutathione, as well as Bcl-2 were significantly decreased in sorafenib group compared with DENA group. Sorafenib also exhibited antiproliferative effect through suppression of gene expression of cyclin D1 and β-catenin. Thus, the apoptotic and proliferative pathways in HCC could be interrupted by sorafenib, supporting the role of sorafenib as antineoplastic agent and nominating it as a candidate drug for other neoplasms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nahla E El-Ashmawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Eman G Khedr
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Hoda A El-Bahrawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Yang Q, Mas A, Diamond MP, Al-Hendy A. The Mechanism and Function of Epigenetics in Uterine Leiomyoma Development. Reprod Sci 2016; 23:163-75. [PMID: 25922306 PMCID: PMC5933172 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115584449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas, also known as uterine fibroids, are the most common pelvic tumors, occurring in nearly 70% of all reproductive-aged women and are the leading indication for hysterectomy worldwide. The development of uterine leiomyomas involve a complex and heterogeneous constellation of hormones, growth factors, stem cells, genetic, and epigenetic abnormalities. An increasing body of evidence emphasizes the important contribution of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of leiomyomas. Genome-wide methylation analysis demonstrates that a subset of estrogen receptor (ER) response genes exhibit abnormal hypermethylation levels that are inversely correlated with their RNA expression. Several tumor suppressor genes, including Kruppel-like factor 11 (KLF11), deleted in lung and esophageal cancer 1 (DLEC1), keratin 19 (KRT19), and death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) also display higher hypermethylation levels in leiomyomas when compared to adjacent normal tissues. The important role of active DNA demethylation was recently identified with regard to the ten-eleven translocation protein 1 and ten-eleven translocation protein 3-mediated elevated levels of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in leiomyoma. In addition, both histone deacetylase and histone methyltransferase are reported to be involved in the biology of leiomyomas. A number of deregulated microRNAs have been identified in leiomyomas, leading to an altered expression of their targets. More recently, the existence of side population (SP) cells with characteristics of tumor-initiating cells have been characterized in leiomyomas. These SP cells exhibit a tumorigenic capacity in immunodeficient mice when exposed to 17β-estradiol and progesterone, giving rise to fibroid-like tissue in vivo. These new findings will likely enhance our understanding of the crucial role epigenetics plays in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyomas as well as point the way to novel therapeutic options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Yang
- Division of Translation Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Aymara Mas
- Division of Translation Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Michael P Diamond
- Division of Translation Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Division of Translation Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tejeda-Muñoz N, Robles-Flores M. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 in Wnt signaling pathway and cancer. IUBMB Life 2015; 67:914-22. [PMID: 26600003 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) was first discovered in 1980 as one of the key enzymes of glycogen metabolism. Since then, GSK-3 has been revealed as one of the master regulators of a diverse range of signaling pathways, including those activated by Wnts, participating in the regulation of numerous cellular functions, suggesting that its activity is tightly regulated. Numerous studies have pointed to an association of GSK-3 dysregulation with the onset and progression of human diseases, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, inflammation, neurological illnesses, and cancer. Therefore, GSK-3 is recognized as an attractive therapeutic target in multiple disorders. However, the great number of substrates that are phosphorylated by GSK-3 has raised the question of whether this limits its feasibility as a therapeutic target because of the potential disruption of many cellular processes and also by the fear that inhibition of GSK-3 may stimulate or aid in malignant transformation, as GSK-3 can phosphorylate pro-oncogenic factors. This mini review focuses on the role played by GSK-3 in Wnt signaling pathway and cancer using as model colon cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nydia Tejeda-Muñoz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico, D.F., 04510, México
| | - Martha Robles-Flores
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico, D.F., 04510, México
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Skeie JM, Roybal CN, Mahajan VB. Proteomic insight into the molecular function of the vitreous. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127567. [PMID: 26020955 PMCID: PMC4447289 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The human vitreous contains primarily water, but also contains proteins which have yet to be fully characterized. To gain insight into the four vitreous substructures and their potential functions, we isolated and analyzed the vitreous protein profiles of three non-diseased human eyes. The four analyzed substructures were the anterior hyaloid, the vitreous cortex, the vitreous core, and the vitreous base. Proteins were separated by multidimensional liquid chromatography and identified by tandem mass spectrometry. Bioinformatics tools then extracted the expression profiles, signaling pathways, and interactomes unique to each tissue. From each substructure, a mean of 2,062 unique proteins were identified, with many being differentially expressed in a specific substructure: 278 proteins were unique to the anterior hyaloid, 322 to the vitreous cortex, 128 to the vitreous base, and 136 to the vitreous core. When the identified proteins were organized according to relevant functional pathways and networks, key patterns appeared. The blood coagulation pathway and extracellular matrix turnover networks were highly represented. Oxidative stress regulation and energy metabolism proteins were distributed throughout the vitreous. Immune functions were represented by high levels of immunoglobulin, the complement pathway, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and evolutionarily conserved antimicrobial proteins. The majority of vitreous proteins detected were intracellular proteins, some of which originate from the retina, including rhodopsin (RHO), phosphodiesterase 6 (PDE6), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). This comprehensive analysis uncovers a picture of the vitreous as a biologically active tissue, where proteins localize to distinct substructures to protect the intraocular tissues from infection, oxidative stress, and energy disequilibrium. It also reveals the retina as a potential source of inflammatory mediators. The vitreous proteome catalogues the dynamic interactions between the vitreous and surrounding tissues. It therefore could be an indirect and effective method for surveying vitreoretinal disease for specific biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Skeie
- Omics Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
| | - C. Nathaniel Roybal
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
| | - Vinit B. Mahajan
- Omics Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Costabile V, Duraturo F, Delrio P, Rega D, Pace U, Liccardo R, Rossi GB, Genesio R, Nitsch L, Izzo P, De Rosa M. Lithium chloride induces mesenchymal‑to‑epithelial reverting transition in primary colon cancer cell cultures. Int J Oncol 2015; 46:1913-23. [PMID: 25738332 PMCID: PMC4383027 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.2911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) confers stem cell-like phenotype and more motile properties to carcinoma cells. During EMT, the expression of E-cadherin decreases, resulting in loss of cell-cell adhesion and increased migration. Expression of Twist1 and other pleiotropic transcription factors, such as Snail, is known to activate EMT. We established primary colon cancer cell cultures from samples of operated patients and validated cultures by cytogenetic and molecular biology approaches. Western blot assay, quantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence were performed to investigate the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, β-catenin, cytokeratin-20 and -18, Twist1, Snail, CD44, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), Sox2, Oct4 and Nanog. Moreover, cell differentiation was induced by incubation with LiCl-containing medium for 10 days. We observed that these primary colorectal cancer (CRC) cells lost expression of the E-cadherin epithelial marker, which was instead expressed in cancer and normal colon mucosa of the same patient, while overexpressed vimentin (mesenchymal marker), Twist1, Snail (EMT markers) and COX2. Cytokeratin-18 was expressed both in tissues and cell cultures. Expression of stem cell markers, such as CD44, Oct4 and Nanog, were also observed. Following differentiation with the glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) inhibitor LiCl, the cells began to express E-cadherin and, at once, Twist1 and Snail expression was strongly downregulated, suggesting a MET-reverting process. In conclusion, we established primary colon mesenchymal cancer cell cultures expressing mesenchymal and epithelial biomarkers together with high level of EMT transcription factors. We propose that they could represent a good model for studying EMT and its reverting mechanism, the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET). Our observation indicates that LiCl, a GSK3β inhibitor, induces MET in vitro, suggesting that LiCl and GSK3β could represent, respectively, interesting drug, and target for CRC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Costabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Duraturo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Delrio
- Colorectal Surgical Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, ̔Fondazione Giovanni Pascale̓ IRCCS, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Rega
- Colorectal Surgical Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, ̔Fondazione Giovanni Pascale̓ IRCCS, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Pace
- Colorectal Surgical Oncology, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, ̔Fondazione Giovanni Pascale̓ IRCCS, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Liccardo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Rossi
- Endoscopy Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, ̔Fondazione Giovanni Pascale̓ IRCCS, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Genesio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Nitsch
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Izzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina De Rosa
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico Ⅱ, I‑80131 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chemoradiation in oesophageal cancer. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2015; 29:193-209. [PMID: 25743466 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2014.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Oesophageal cancer is the 8th most common cancer worldwide, and has significant mortality and morbidity rates. The two most common histological types, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, have different localizations, distinctive risk factors, and molecular mechanisms. Survival for patients with locoregional oesophageal cancer is poor when treated with surgery only, with 5-year survival less than 10-15%. Radiation therapy has limited efficacy when given alone. Concurrent chemoradiation improves local-regional control and facilitates margin-free resection when delivered preoperatively. Chemoradiation prolongs survival when given as definitive treatment or combined with surgery. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation also reduces risk of distant recurrence. To date, there is no data supporting the addition of targeted therapy to concurrent chemoradiation. Understanding molecular pathways regulating both radiosensitivity and tumorigenesis/invasion may lead to the discovery of new targeted agents, improving outcome of chemoradiation in terms of both locoregional and systemic control, ultimately resulting in prolonged survival.
Collapse
|