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DeCotiis-Mauro J, Han SM, Mello H, Goyeneche C, Marchesini-Tovar G, Jin L, Bellofatto V, Lukac DM. The cellular Notch1 protein promotes KSHV reactivation in an Rta-dependent manner. J Virol 2024:e0078824. [PMID: 38975769 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00788-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The cellular Notch signal transduction pathway is intimately associated with infections by Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and other gamma-herpesviruses. RBP-Jk, the cellular DNA binding component of the canonical Notch pathway, is the key Notch downstream effector protein in virus-infected and uninfected animal cells. Reactivation of KSHV from latency requires the viral lytic switch protein, Rta, to form complexes with RBP-Jk on numerous sites within the viral DNA. Constitutive Notch activity is essential for KSHV pathophysiology in models of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) and Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL), and we demonstrate that Notch1 is also constitutively active in infected Vero cells. Although the KSHV genome contains >100 RBP-Jk DNA motifs, we show that none of the four isoforms of activated Notch can productively reactivate the virus from latency in a highly quantitative trans-complementing reporter virus system. Nevertheless, Notch contributed positively to reactivation because broad inhibition of Notch1-4 with gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) or expression of dominant negative mastermind-like1 (dnMAML1) coactivators severely reduced production of infectious KSHV from Vero cells. Reduction of KSHV production is associated with gene-specific reduction of viral transcription in both Vero and PEL cells. Specific inhibition of Notch1 by siRNA partially reduces the production of infectious KSHV, and NICD1 forms promoter-specific complexes with viral DNA during reactivation. We conclude that constitutive Notch activity is required for the robust production of infectious KSHV, and our results implicate activated Notch1 as a pro-viral member of a MAML1/RBP-Jk/DNA complex during viral reactivation. IMPORTANCE Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) manipulates the host cell oncogenic Notch signaling pathway for viral reactivation from latency and cell pathogenesis. KSHV reactivation requires that the viral protein Rta functionally interacts with RBP-Jk, the DNA-binding component of the Notch pathway, and with promoter DNA to drive transcription of productive cycle genes. We show that the Notch pathway is constitutively active during KSHV reactivation and is essential for robust production of infectious virus progeny. Inhibiting Notch during reactivation reduces the expression of specific viral genes yet does not affect the growth of the host cells. Although Notch cannot reactivate KSHV alone, the requisite expression of Rta reveals a previously unappreciated role for Notch in reactivation. We propose that activated Notch cooperates with Rta in a promoter-specific manner that is partially programmed by Rta's ability to redistribute RBP-Jk DNA binding to the virus during reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer DeCotiis-Mauro
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Sun M Han
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Helena Mello
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Corey Goyeneche
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Giuseppina Marchesini-Tovar
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Lianhua Jin
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vivian Bellofatto
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - David M Lukac
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Health Science Campus at Newark, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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McGettigan BM, Shah VH. Every sheriff needs a deputy: Targeting non-parenchymal cells to treat hepatic fibrosis. J Hepatol 2024; 81:20-22. [PMID: 38677654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Brett M McGettigan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Vijay H Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
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Winicki NM, Puerta C, Besse CE, Zhang Y, Thistlethwaite PA. NOTCH3 and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6248. [PMID: 38892440 PMCID: PMC11172835 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
NOTCH3 receptor signaling has been linked to the regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation and the maintenance of smooth muscle cells in an undifferentiated state. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (World Health Organization Group 1 idiopathic disease: PAH) is a fatal disease characterized clinically by elevated pulmonary vascular resistance caused by extensive vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, perivascular inflammation, and asymmetric neointimal hyperplasia in precapillary pulmonary arteries. In this review, a detailed overview of the specific role of NOTCH3 signaling in PAH, including its mechanisms of activation by a select ligand, downstream signaling effectors, and physiologic effects within the pulmonary vascular tree, is provided. Animal models showing the importance of the NOTCH3 pathway in clinical PAH will be discussed. New drugs and biologics that inhibit NOTCH3 signaling and reverse this deadly disease are highlighted.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Receptor, Notch3/metabolism
- Receptor, Notch3/genetics
- Animals
- Signal Transduction
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/metabolism
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension/pathology
- Pulmonary Artery/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/metabolism
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/pathology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Patricia A. Thistlethwaite
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of California, 9300 Campus Point Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-7892, USA
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Nakashoji A, Haratake N, Bhattacharya A, Mao W, Xu K, Wang K, Daimon T, Ozawa H, Shigeta K, Fushimi A, Yamashita N, Morimoto Y, Shimokawa M, Saito S, Egloff AM, Uppaluri R, Long MD, Kufe D. Identification of MUC1-C as a Target for Suppressing Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:1268-1281. [PMID: 38619287 PMCID: PMC11092937 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-24-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The MUC1-C protein is aberrantly expressed in adenocarcinomas of epithelial barrier tissues and contributes to their progression. Less is known about involvement of MUC1-C in the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). Here, we report that the MUC1 gene is upregulated in advanced head and neck SCCs (HNSCC). Studies of HNSCC cell lines demonstrate that the MUC1-C subunit regulates expression of (i) RIG-I and MDA5 pattern recognition receptors, (ii) STAT1 and IFN regulatory factors, and (iii) downstream IFN-stimulated genes. MUC1-C integrates chronic activation of the STAT1 inflammatory pathway with induction of the ∆Np63 and SOX2 genes that are aberrantly expressed in HNSCCs. In extending those dependencies, we demonstrate that MUC1-C is necessary for NOTCH3 expression, self-renewal capacity, and tumorigenicity. The findings that MUC1 associates with ∆Np63, SOX2 and NOTCH3 expression by single-cell RNA sequencing analysis further indicate that MUC1-C drives the HNSCC stem cell state and is a target for suppressing HNSCC progression. SIGNIFICANCE This work reports a previously unrecognized role for MUC1-C in driving STAT1-mediated chronic inflammation with the progression of HNSCC and identifies MUC1-C as a druggable target for advanced HNSCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Nakashoji
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Naoki Haratake
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Weipu Mao
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kangjie Xu
- Central Laboratory Department, Binhai County People's Hospital, Yancheng, P.R. China
| | - Keyi Wang
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tatsuaki Daimon
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hiroki Ozawa
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Keisuke Shigeta
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Atsushi Fushimi
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nami Yamashita
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yoshihiro Morimoto
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mototsugu Shimokawa
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shin Saito
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ann Marie Egloff
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ravindra Uppaluri
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark D. Long
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Donald Kufe
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Wang YC, Chen RF, Liu KF, Chen WY, Lee CC, Kuo YR. Adipose-derived stem cell modulate tolerogenic dendritic cell-induced T cell regulation is correlated with activation of Notch-NFκB signaling. Cytotherapy 2024:S1465-3249(24)00574-7. [PMID: 38625070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.03.482] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are recognized for their potential immunomodulatory properties. In the immune system, tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs), characterized by an immature phenotype, play a crucial role in inducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) and promoting immune tolerance. Notch1 signaling has been identified as a key regulator in the development and function of DCs. However, the precise involvement of Notch1 pathway in ASC-mediated modulation of tolerogenic DCs and its impact on immune modulation remain to be fully elucidated. This study aims to investigate the interplay between ASCs and DCs, focusing the role of Notch1 signaling and downstream pathways in ASC-modulated tolerogenic DCs. METHODS Rat bone marrow-derived myeloid DCs were directly co-cultured with ASCs to generate ASC-treated DCs (ASC-DCs). Notch signaling was inhibited using DAPT, while NFκB pathways were inhibited by NEMO binding domain peptide and si-NIK. Flow cytometry assessed DC phenotypes. Real-time quantitative PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence determined the expression of Notch1, Jagged1 and the p52/RelB complex in ASC- DCs. RESULTS Notch1 and Jagged1 were highly expressed on both DCs and ASCs. ASC-DCs displayed significantly reduced levels of CD80, CD86 and MHC II compared to mature DCs. Inhibiting the Notch pathway with DAPT reversed the dedifferentiation effects. The percentage of induced CD25+/FOXP3+/CD4+ Tregs decreased when ASC-DCs were treated with DAPT (inhibition of the Notch pathway) and si-NIK (inhibition of the non-canonical NFκB pathway). CONCLUSIONS ASCs induce DC tolerogenicity by inhibiting maturation and promoting downstream Treg generation, involving the Notch and NFκB pathways. ASC-induced tolerogenic DCs can be a potential immunomodulatory tool for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chi Wang
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Fu Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Keng-Fan Liu
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yu Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Lee
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yur-Ren Kuo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Orthopaedic Research Center, Regenerative Medicine, and Cell Therapy Research Center; Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Ta-Tong Municipal Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; SingHealth Duke-NUS Musculoskeletal Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore.
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6
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Dasari N, Guntuku GS, Pindiprolu SKSS. Targeting triple negative breast cancer stem cells using nanocarriers. DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:41. [PMID: 38453756 PMCID: PMC10920615 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-03985-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease, encompassing various subtypes characterized by distinct molecular features, clinical behaviors, and treatment responses. Categorization of subtypes is based on the presence or absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), leading to subtypes such as luminal A, luminal B, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC, comprising around 20% of all breast cancers, lacks expression of ER, PR, and HER2 receptors, rendering it unresponsive to targeted therapies and presenting significant challenges in treatment. TNBC is associated with aggressive behavior, high rates of recurrence, and resistance to chemotherapy. Tumor initiation, progression, and treatment resistance in TNBC are attributed to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which possess self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenic potential. Surface markers, self-renewal pathways (Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog signaling), apoptotic protein (Bcl-2), angiogenesis inhibition (VEGF inhibitors), and immune modulation (cytokines, immune checkpoint inhibitors) are among the key targets discussed in this review. However, targeting the BCSC subpopulation in TNBC presents challenges, including off-target effects, low solubility, and bioavailability of anti-BCSC agents. Nanoparticle-based therapies offer a promising approach to target various molecular pathways and cellular processes implicated in survival of BSCS in TNBC. In this review, we explore various nanocarrier-based approaches for targeting BCSCs in TNBC, aiming to overcome these challenges and improve treatment outcomes for TNBC patients. These nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies hold promise for addressing the therapeutic gap in TNBC treatment by delivering targeted therapies to BCSCs while minimizing systemic toxicity and enhancing treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagasen Dasari
- Andhra University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
- Aditya Pharmacy College, Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India.
- Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Girija Sankar Guntuku
- Andhra University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sai Kiran S S Pindiprolu
- Aditya Pharmacy College, Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India
- Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Yin Z, Zhu Y, Shi J, He Y, Zhang F. The role of the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases. Microb Pathog 2024; 188:106557. [PMID: 38272330 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is the most crucial link in the normal operation and maintenance of physiological functions of mammalian life processes. Notch receptors interact with ligands and this leads to three cleavages and goes on to enter the nucleus to initiate the transcription of target genes. The Notch signaling pathway deeply participates in the differentiation and function of various cells, including immune cells. Recent studies indicate that the outcomes of Notch signaling are changeable and highly dependent on different bacterial infection. The Notch signaling pathway plays a different role in promoting and inhibiting bacterial infection. In this review, we focus on the latest research findings of the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases. The Notch signaling pathway is critically involved in a variety of development processes of immunosuppression of different APCs. The Notch signaling pathway leads to functional changes in epithelial cells to aggravate tissue damage. Specifically, we illustrate the regulatory mechanism of the Notch signaling pathway in various bacterial infections, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis, Mycobacterium leprae, Helicobacter pylori, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Ehrlichia chaffeensis and sepsis. Collectively, this review will not only help beginners intuitively and systematically understand the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases but also help experts to generate fresh insight in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Yin
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 393, Xinyi Road, Urumqi, 830011, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yuejie Zhu
- Reproductive Fertility Assistance Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, China
| | - Juan Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 393, Xinyi Road, Urumqi, 830011, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yueyue He
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, No. 393, Xinyi Road, Urumqi, 830011, Xinjiang, China
| | - Fengbo Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 393, Xinyi Road, Urumqi, 830011, Xinjiang, China.
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Oliveira RHDM, Annex BH, Popel AS. Endothelial cells signaling and patterning under hypoxia: a mechanistic integrative computational model including the Notch-Dll4 pathway. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1351753. [PMID: 38455844 PMCID: PMC10917925 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1351753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Several signaling pathways are activated during hypoxia to promote angiogenesis, leading to endothelial cell patterning, interaction, and downstream signaling. Understanding the mechanistic signaling differences between endothelial cells under normoxia and hypoxia and their response to different stimuli can guide therapies to modulate angiogenesis. We present a novel mechanistic model of interacting endothelial cells, including the main pathways involved in angiogenesis. Methods: We calibrate and fit the model parameters based on well-established modeling techniques that include structural and practical parameter identifiability, uncertainty quantification, and global sensitivity. Results: Our results indicate that the main pathways involved in patterning tip and stalk endothelial cells under hypoxia differ, and the time under hypoxia interferes with how different stimuli affect patterning. Additionally, our simulations indicate that Notch signaling might regulate vascular permeability and establish different Nitric Oxide release patterns for tip/stalk cells. Following simulations with various stimuli, our model suggests that factors such as time under hypoxia and oxygen availability must be considered for EC pattern control. Discussion: This project provides insights into the signaling and patterning of endothelial cells under various oxygen levels and stimulation by VEGFA and is our first integrative approach toward achieving EC control as a method for improving angiogenesis. Overall, our model provides a computational framework that can be built on to test angiogenesis-related therapies by modulation of different pathways, such as the Notch pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian H. Annex
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Aleksander S. Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Wang M, Yu F, Zhang Y, Li P. Novel insights into Notch signaling in tumor immunity: potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1352484. [PMID: 38444855 PMCID: PMC10912471 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1352484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling pathway is a highly conserved system of cell-to-cell communication that participates in various biological processes, such as stem cell maintenance, cell fate decision, cell proliferation and death during homeostasis and development. Dysregulation of Notch signaling has been associated with many aspects of cancer biology, such as maintenance of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis and tumor immunity. Particularly, Notch signaling can regulate antitumor or pro-tumor immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, Notch signaling has drawn significant attention in the therapeutic development of cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on the role of Notch signaling pathway in remodeling tumor immune microenvironment. We describe the impact of Notch signaling on the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. Furthermore, we summarize the results of relevant preclinical and clinical trials of Notch-targeted therapeutics and discuss the challenges in their clinical application in cancer therapy. An improved understanding of the involvement of Notch signaling in tumor immunity will open the door to new options in cancer immunotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | | | | | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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Strippoli R, Niayesh-Mehr R, Adelipour M, Khosravi A, Cordani M, Zarrabi A, Allameh A. Contribution of Autophagy to Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition Induction during Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:807. [PMID: 38398197 PMCID: PMC10886827 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a dedifferentiation process implicated in many physio-pathological conditions including tumor transformation. EMT is regulated by several extracellular mediators and under certain conditions it can be reversible. Autophagy is a conserved catabolic process in which intracellular components such as protein/DNA aggregates and abnormal organelles are degraded in specific lysosomes. In cancer, autophagy plays a controversial role, acting in different conditions as both a tumor suppressor and a tumor-promoting mechanism. Experimental evidence shows that deep interrelations exist between EMT and autophagy-related pathways. Although this interplay has already been analyzed in previous studies, understanding mechanisms and the translational implications of autophagy/EMT need further study. The role of autophagy in EMT is not limited to morphological changes, but activation of autophagy could be important to DNA repair/damage system, cell adhesion molecules, and cell proliferation and differentiation processes. Based on this, both autophagy and EMT and related pathways are now considered as targets for cancer therapy. In this review article, the contribution of autophagy to EMT and progression of cancer is discussed. This article also describes the multiple connections between EMT and autophagy and their implication in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Strippoli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, I.R.C.C.S., 00149 Rome, Italy
| | - Reyhaneh Niayesh-Mehr
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-331, Iran;
| | - Maryam Adelipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 61357-15794, Iran;
| | - Arezoo Khosravi
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul 34959, Türkiye;
| | - Marco Cordani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul 34396, Türkiye;
- Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Abdolamir Allameh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-331, Iran;
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11
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Shekar N, Vuong P, Kaur P. Analysing potent biomarkers along phytochemicals for breast cancer therapy: an in silico approach. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2024; 203:29-47. [PMID: 37726449 PMCID: PMC10771382 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07107-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This research focused on the identification of herbal compounds as potential anti-cancer drugs, especially for breast cancer, that involved the recognition of Notch downstream targets NOTCH proteins (1-4) specifically expressed in breast tumours as biomarkers for prognosis, along with P53 tumour antigens, that were used as comparisons to check the sensitivity of the herbal bio-compounds. METHODS After investigating phytochemical candidates, we employed an approach for computer-aided drug design and analysis to find strong breast cancer inhibitors. The present study utilized in silico analyses and protein docking techniques to characterize and rank selected bio-compounds for their efficiency in oncogenic inhibition for use in precise carcinomic cell growth control. RESULTS Several of the identified phytocompounds found in herbs followed Lipinski's Rule of Five and could be further investigated as potential medicinal molecules. Based on the Vina score obtained after the docking process, the active compound Epigallocatechin gallate in green tea with NOTCH (1-4) and P53 proteins showed promising results for future drug repurposing. The stiffness and binding stability of green tea pharmacological complexes were further elucidated by the molecular dynamic simulations carried out for the highest scoring phytochemical ligand complex. CONCLUSION The target-ligand complex of green tea active compound Epigallocatechin gallate with NOTCH (1-4) had the potential to become potent anti-breast cancer therapeutic candidates following further research involving wet-lab experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivruthi Shekar
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, 35-Stirling Highway, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Paton Vuong
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, 35-Stirling Highway, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Parwinder Kaur
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, 35-Stirling Highway, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
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12
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Ito Y, Yamagata M, Yamamoto T, Hirasaka K, Nikawa T, Sato T. The reciprocal regulation between mitochondrial-associated membranes and Notch signaling in skeletal muscle atrophy. eLife 2023; 12:RP89381. [PMID: 38099641 PMCID: PMC10723794 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89381] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle atrophy and the inhibition of muscle regeneration are known to occur as a natural consequence of aging, yet the underlying mechanisms that lead to these processes in atrophic myofibers remain largely unclear. Our research has revealed that the maintenance of proper mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAM) is vital for preventing skeletal muscle atrophy in microgravity environments. We discovered that the deletion of the mitochondrial fusion protein Mitofusin2 (MFN2), which serves as a tether for MAM, in human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells or the reduction of MAM in differentiated myotubes caused by microgravity interfered with myogenic differentiation process and an increased susceptibility to muscle atrophy, as well as the activation of the Notch signaling pathway. The atrophic phenotype of differentiated myotubes in microgravity and the regenerative capacity of Mfn2-deficient muscle stem cells in dystrophic mice were both ameliorated by treatment with the gamma-secretase inhibitor DAPT. Our findings demonstrate how the orchestration of mitochondrial morphology in differentiated myotubes and regenerating muscle stem cells plays a crucial role in regulating Notch signaling through the interaction of MAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Ito
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
| | - Mari Yamagata
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha UniversityKyotanabeJapan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Medical-risk Avoidance based on iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP)KyotoJapan
| | - Katsuya Hirasaka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University Graduate SchoolNagasakiJapan
| | - Takeshi Nikawa
- Department of Nutritional Physiology, Institute of Medical Nutrition, Tokushima University Graduate SchoolTokushimaJapan
| | - Takahiko Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of MedicineKyotoJapan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
- International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
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13
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Medina E, Perez DH, Antfolk D, Luca VC. New tricks for an old pathway: emerging Notch-based biotechnologies and therapeutics. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:934-948. [PMID: 37891017 PMCID: PMC10841456 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.09.011] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The Notch pathway regulates a diverse array of cell fate decisions, making it an enticing target in cancer therapy and regenerative medicine. During the early stages of Notch drug development, off-target toxicity precluded the approval of Notch inhibitors for the treatment of cancer. However, recent advances in our understanding of Notch structure and signaling have led to the development of several innovative Notch-based biotechnologies. In addition to new classes of inhibitors, pharmacological Notch activators have been shown to enhance osteogenesis and various aspects of T cell function. Furthermore, the mechanosensitive negative regulatory region (NRR) of the Notch receptor has been converted into synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptors with fully customizable signaling circuits. We review emergent Notch-based compounds, biologics, and cell therapies while highlighting the challenges and opportunities they face on the path to clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Medina
- Department of Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA; Cancer Biology PhD Program, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - David H Perez
- Department of Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Daniel Antfolk
- Department of Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Vincent C Luca
- Department of Immunology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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14
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Hurwitz J, Haggstrom LR, Lim E. Antibody-Drug Conjugates: Ushering in a New Era of Cancer Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2017. [PMID: 37631232 PMCID: PMC10458257 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have provided new therapeutic options and significant promise for patients with cancer, particularly where existing treatments are limited. Substantial effort in ADC development is underway globally, with 13 ADCs currently approved and many more in development. The therapeutic benefits of ADCs leverage the ability to selectively target cancer cells through antibody binding, resultant relative sparing of non-malignant tissues, and the targeted delivery of a cytotoxic payload. Consequently, this drug class has demonstrated activity in multiple malignancies refractory to standard therapeutic options. Despite this, limitations exist, including narrow therapeutic windows, unique toxicity profiles, development of therapeutic resistance, and appropriate biomarker selection. This review will describe the development of ADCs, their mechanisms of action, pivotal trials, and approved indications and identify common themes. Current challenges and opportunities will be discussed for this drug class in cancer therapeutics at a time when significant developments in antibody therapies, immunotherapy, and targeted agents are occurring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Hurwitz
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2053, Australia
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | | | - Elgene Lim
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2053, Australia
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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15
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Sen P, Ghosh SS. The Intricate Notch Signaling Dynamics in Therapeutic Realms of Cancer. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:651-670. [PMID: 37200816 PMCID: PMC10186364 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The Notch pathway is remarkably simple without the interventions of secondary messengers. It possesses a unique receptor-ligand interaction that imparts signaling upon cleavage of the receptor followed by the nuclear localization of its cleaved intracellular domain. It is found that the transcriptional regulator of the Notch pathway lies at the intersection of multiple signaling pathways that enhance the aggressiveness of cancer. The preclinical and clinical evidence supports the pro-oncogenic function of Notch signaling in various tumor subtypes. Owing to its oncogenic role, the Notch signaling pathway assists in enhanced tumorigenesis by facilitating angiogenesis, drug resistance, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, etc., which is also attributed to the poor outcome in patients. Therefore, it is extremely vital to discover a suitable inhibitor to downregulate the signal-transducing ability of Notch. The Notch inhibitory agents, such as receptor decoys, protease (ADAM and γ-secretase) inhibitors, and monoclonal/bispecific antibodies, are being investigated as candidate therapeutic agents. Studies conducted by our group exemplify the promising results in ablating tumorigenic aggressiveness by inhibiting the constituents of the Notch pathway. This review deals with the detailed mechanism of the Notch pathways and their implications in various malignancies. It also bestows us with the recent therapeutic advances concerning Notch signaling in the context of monotherapy and combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Plaboni Sen
- Department
of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Siddhartha Sankar Ghosh
- Department
of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
- Centre
for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of
Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
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