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Chang Z, Gao Y, Chen P, Gao W, Zhao W, Wu D, Liang W, Chen Z, Chen L, Xi H. THBS2 promotes gastric cancer progression and stemness via the Notch signaling pathway. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:3433-3450. [PMID: 39113869 PMCID: PMC11301304 DOI: 10.62347/uxwk4038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Thrombospondin-2 (THBS2), a secreted extracellular matrix protein, plays a crucial role in various biological processes including angiogenesis, tissue remodeling, and inflammation. Our study focuses on its function in human gastric cancer (GC). Through bioinformatics and tumor tissue analysis, we compared THBS2 expression in GC tissues and adjacent tissues, and predicted regulatory upstream and downstream molecules. The direct regulatory effect of miR-29b-3p on THBS2 was evaluated through dual-luciferase reporter assays, showing that miR-29b-3p targets the 3'-UTR of THBS2 mRNA, reducing its expression in GC cells. The influence of THBS2 on tumorigenesis and stemness was examined on protein expression levels via Western blot. In vivo, THBS2's role was investigated through xenograft and metastasis assays in nude mice, demonstrating that downregulation of THBS2 impairs GC tumorigenesis and liver metastasis. Our study identified THBS2 as a highly expressed prognostic factor in GC patients. Functionally, THBS2 promotes GC progression through the Notch signaling pathway by regulating Notch3, NEY1, and HES1 proteins, and sustains cancer stem cell-like characteristics by Notch3, including the expression of CD44, Nanog, OCT4, and SOX2. In sum, our study reveals that THBS2 promotes GC progression and stemness, modulated negatively by miR-29b-3p. This suggests potential therapeutic targets within the THBS2/Notch signaling axis for combating gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyao Chang
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijing 100853, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Yunhe Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Wenxing Gao
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijing 100853, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai UniversityTianjin 300071, China
| | - Di Wu
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijing 100853, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Wenquan Liang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Zhida Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
| | - Hongqing Xi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing 100853, China
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Liu J, Yuan Q, Guo H, Guan H, Hong Z, Shang D. Deciphering drug resistance in gastric cancer: Potential mechanisms and future perspectives. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116310. [PMID: 38394851 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116310] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor that originates from the epithelium of the gastric mucosa. The latest global cancer statistics show that GC ranks fifth in incidence and fourth in mortality among all cancers, posing a serious threat to public health. While early-stage GC is primarily treated through surgery, chemotherapy is the frontline option for advanced cases. Currently, commonly used chemotherapy regimens include FOLFOX (oxaliplatin + leucovorin + 5-fluorouracil) and XELOX (oxaliplatin + capecitabine). However, with the widespread use of chemotherapy, an increasing number of cases of drug resistance have emerged. This article primarily explores the potential mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance in GC patients from five perspectives: cell death, tumor microenvironment, non-coding RNA, epigenetics, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Additionally, it proposes feasibility strategies to overcome drug resistance from four angles: cancer stem cells, tumor microenvironment, natural products, and combined therapy. The hope is that this article will provide guidance for researchers in the field and bring hope to more GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahua Liu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qihang Yuan
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Hui Guo
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Hewen Guan
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Zhijun Hong
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Dong Shang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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Hui Y, Wenguang Y, Wei S, Haoran W, Shanglei N, Ju L. circSLC4A7 accelerates stemness and progression of gastric cancer by interacting with HSP90 to activate NOTCH1 signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:452. [PMID: 37474578 PMCID: PMC10359325 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05976-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) play critical roles in gastric cancer (GC) initiation and development. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) participate in diverse cancer biological processes and function as tumor suppressors or oncogenes. This study aims to discover the expression profile and functional roles of circRNAs in GCSCs. A spheroid formation assay was conducted to enrich GCSCs. Genome-wide sequencing of circRNAs showed that a novel circRNA, circSLC4A7, was one of the most upregulated circRNAs in GCSCs. CircSLC4A7 was localized to the nucleus, and its level was elevated in GC cells and tissues. Furthermore, circSLC4A7 increased CSC-like properties and drove cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, which were determined by gain- and loss-of-function experiments. Specific circRNA pull-down assays followed by mass spectrometry analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation, and dual RNA-fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence assay were conducted and HSP90 was detected to interact with circSLC4A7 and mediate the oncogenic function of circSLC4A7 by activating the Notch1 signaling pathway in GC. This study highlights a novel oncogenic function of circSLC4A7 mediated by its binding with HSP90 and thus activating the Notch1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Hui
- Center for post-doctoral studies, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of General Surgery, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China
| | - Yuan Wenguang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Tumor, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Medicine and Health Key Laboratory of General Surgery, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China
| | - Shang Wei
- Department of proctology, Jinan People's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, 271100, China
| | - Wang Haoran
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China
| | - Ning Shanglei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China.
| | - Liu Ju
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China.
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China.
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Claudin-6 increases SNAI1, NANOG and SOX2 gene expression in human gastric adenocarcinoma AGS cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:11663-11674. [PMID: 36169897 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07976-z] [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: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer is a heterogeneous disease associated to deregulated gastric epithelia tight junction barrier function and di novo expression of claudin-6; these changes are associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, enhanced invasiveness, metastatic progression, resistance to chemotherapy, and poor prognosis. Gastric cancer stem cells represent a rare population of cells within the tumor implicated in tumor growth and higher tumorigenic capacity. The possible relation between claudin-6 expression and the expression of some markers associated to epithelial mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells in gastric cancer cells have never been explored. METHODS AND RESULTS CD44, CD24, Twist, Villin, DCLK1, claudin-6, NANOG, E-Cadherin, SOX2, and SNAI1 expression was evaluated by immunofluorescence and cytofluorometry in wild type and Claudin-6 transfected AGS cells. Cell migration assays were also performed. Differentially expressed genes and biological processes analysis was performed to determine gene preponderance. The results showed that claudin-6 overexpression enriched the CD44 + /CD24- subpopulation with an overall increase in the expression and the number of CD44 + cells. A significant increase in NANOG, SOX2 and SNAI1 expression and enhanced cell migration was observed in claudin-6 transfected cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed 271 genes involved in enhanced biological processes with only 31 with a significantly p value; thirteen of those genes are closely associated to epithelial mesenchymal transition processes and folding and unfolding processes of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. CONCLUSIONS The pro-tumorigenic effect of claudin-6 in gastric cancer could be associated to dedifferentiation of epithelial cells and an increase in di novo cancer stem cell genesis.
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Rao X, Zhang C, Luo H, Zhang J, Zhuang Z, Liang Z, Wu X. Targeting Gastric Cancer Stem Cells to Enhance Treatment Response. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182828. [PMID: 36139403 PMCID: PMC9496718 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) was the fourth deadliest cancer in the world in 2020, and about 770,000 people died from GC that year. The death of patients with GC is mainly caused by the metastasis, recurrence, and chemotherapy resistance of GC cells. The cancer stem cell theory defines cancer stem cells (CSCs) as a key factor in the metastasis, recurrence, and chemotherapy resistance of cancer. It considers targeting gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) to be an effective method for the treatment of GC. For GCSCs, genes or noncoding RNAs are important regulatory factors. Many experimental studies have found that some drugs can target the stemness of gastric cancer by regulating these genes or noncoding RNAs, which may bring new directions for the clinical treatment of gastric cancer. Therefore, this review mainly discusses related genes or noncoding RNAs in GCSCs and drugs that target its stemness, thereby providing some information for the treatment of GC.
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Cancer Stem Cells in Tumor Microenvironment of Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach, Colon, and Rectum. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163948. [PMID: 36010940 PMCID: PMC9405851 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gastrointestinal cancers have a high mortality rate worldwide, and the progression of the disease is related to cancer stem cells. Until now, its relationship with the microenvironment has been poorly understood. We describe the molecules and different pathways activated during this interaction and the new targeting therapies for cancer cells and microenvironment modulation. This approach could impact the way gastrointestinal cancers are managed. Abstract Gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas are one of the world’s deadliest cancers. Cancer stem cells and the tissue microenvironment are highly regulated by cell and molecular mechanisms. Cancer stem cells are essential for maintenance and progression and are associated with resistance to conventional treatments. This article reviews the current knowledge of the role of the microenvironment during the primary establishment of gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas in the stomach, colon, and rectum and its relationship with cancer stem cells. We also describe novel developments in cancer therapeutics, such as targeted therapy, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different treatments for improving gastrointestinal cancer prognosis.
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7
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Zhang H, Ma H, Yang X, Fan L, Tian S, Niu R, Yan M, Zheng M, Zhang S. Cell Fusion-Related Proteins and Signaling Pathways, and Their Roles in the Development and Progression of Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:809668. [PMID: 35178400 PMCID: PMC8846309 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.809668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell fusion is involved in many physiological and pathological processes, including gamete binding, and cancer development. The basic processes of cell fusion include membrane fusion, cytoplasmic mixing, and nuclear fusion. Cell fusion is regulated by different proteins and signaling pathways. Syncytin-1, syncytin-2, glial cell missing 1, galectin-1 and other proteins (annexins, myomaker, myomerger etc.) involved in cell fusion via the cyclic adenosine-dependent protein kinase A, mitogen-activated protein kinase, wingless/integrase-1, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling pathways. In the progression of malignant tumors, cell fusion is essential during the organ-specific metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, the formation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), cancer angiogenesis and cancer immunity. In addition, diploid cells can be induced to form polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs) via cell fusion under many kinds of stimuli, including cobalt chloride, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and traditional Chinese medicine. PGCCs have CSC-like properties, and the daughter cells derived from PGCCs have a mesenchymal phenotype and exhibit strong migration, invasion, and proliferation abilities. Therefore, exploring the molecular mechanisms of cell fusion can enable us better understand the development of malignant tumors. In this review, the basic process of cell fusion and its significance in cancer is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Ma
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohui Yang
- Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Linlin Fan
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shifeng Tian
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Rui Niu
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Man Yan
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Minying Zheng
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shiwu Zhang
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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8
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Khosravi A, Jafari SM, Asadi J. Knockdown of TAZ decrease the cancer stem properties of ESCC cell line YM-1 by modulation of Nanog, OCT-4 and SOX2. Gene 2020; 769:145207. [PMID: 33031893 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a rare population in tumors with high metastatic potential and resistance to treatment. Recent strategies in cancer treatment have focused on targeting important signaling pathways that have an important role in maintaining CSC populations. TAZ (transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif) is a key downstream of the Hippo pathway which plays a fundamental role in the survival of CSCs from different origins, however, no data on the role of TAZ in esophageal cancer are available. Our findings showed that esophageal CSCs enriched from the YM-1 cell line have stemness properties. We found that TAZ was strongly expressed in esophageal CSCs and knockdown of TAZ in esophageal CSCs results in reduced colony formation and cell migration. Moreover, this data indicated that TAZ knockdown reduces the expression of SOX-2, OCT-4, and Nanong in esophageal CSCs. Taken together, the results of the current study suggested that TAZ has a crucial role in the biology of esophageal CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayyoob Khosravi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Technologies, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Seyyed Mehdi Jafari
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Jahanbakhsh Asadi
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
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Dzobo K, Senthebane DA, Ganz C, Thomford NE, Wonkam A, Dandara C. Advances in Therapeutic Targeting of Cancer Stem Cells within the Tumor Microenvironment: An Updated Review. Cells 2020; 9:E1896. [PMID: 32823711 PMCID: PMC7464860 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great strides being achieved in improving cancer patients' outcomes through better therapies and combinatorial treatment, several hurdles still remain due to therapy resistance, cancer recurrence and metastasis. Drug resistance culminating in relapse continues to be associated with fatal disease. The cancer stem cell theory posits that tumors are driven by specialized cancer cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are a subpopulation of cancer cells known to be resistant to therapy and cause metastasis. Whilst the debate on whether CSCs are the origins of the primary tumor rages on, CSCs have been further characterized in many cancers with data illustrating that CSCs display great abilities to self-renew, resist therapies due to enhanced epithelial to mesenchymal (EMT) properties, enhanced expression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) membrane transporters, activation of several survival signaling pathways and increased immune evasion as well as DNA repair mechanisms. CSCs also display great heterogeneity with the consequential lack of specific CSC markers presenting a great challenge to their targeting. In this updated review we revisit CSCs within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and present novel treatment strategies targeting CSCs. These promising strategies include targeting CSCs-specific properties using small molecule inhibitors, immunotherapy, microRNA mediated inhibitors, epigenetic methods as well as targeting CSC niche-microenvironmental factors and differentiation. Lastly, we present recent clinical trials undertaken to try to turn the tide against cancer by targeting CSC-associated drug resistance and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Wernher and Beit Building (South), UCT Medical Campus, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (D.A.S.); (C.G.)
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Dimakatso Alice Senthebane
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Wernher and Beit Building (South), UCT Medical Campus, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (D.A.S.); (C.G.)
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Chelene Ganz
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Wernher and Beit Building (South), UCT Medical Campus, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (D.A.S.); (C.G.)
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Nicholas Ekow Thomford
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology and Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (N.E.T.); (A.W.); (C.D.)
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, PMB, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology and Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (N.E.T.); (A.W.); (C.D.)
| | - Collet Dandara
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology and Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (N.E.T.); (A.W.); (C.D.)
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Tang X, Zhu J, Liu Y, Chen C, Liu T, Liu J. Current Understanding of Circular RNAs in Gastric Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2019; 11:10509-10521. [PMID: 31853202 PMCID: PMC6916696 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s223204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Advanced diagnosis and high rates of relapse and metastasis are associated with the poor prognosis of this disease. GC has a complex etiopathogenesis of which the underlying mechanisms remain to be explored. Studies on circular RNAs (circRNAs), noncoding RNAs that may be potential targets in GC, have made substantial progress over the past few years. CircRNAs exert important effects on the onset and progression of GC. Hence, this article aims to summarize the findings of recent studies of circRNAs related to GC and to describe the underlying mechanisms and potential applications. The findings indicate that circRNAs participate in GC regulation, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis through regulating microRNAs, proteins, genes, and signaling pathways. In addition, dysregulated circRNAs may be used as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets. This review is expected to facilitate a better understanding of GC, and it suggests novel circRNA-based methods to inhibit or prevent GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohuan Tang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaming Zhu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanda Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianzhou Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
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11
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The Role of MicroRNAs in the Regulation of Gastric Cancer Stem Cells: A Meta-Analysis of the Current Status. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8050639. [PMID: 31075910 PMCID: PMC6572052 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. As for other types of cancers, several limitations to the success of current therapeutic GC treatments may be due to cancer drug resistance that leads to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Increasing evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are among the major causative factors of cancer treatment failure. The research of molecular CSC mechanisms and the regulation of their properties have been intensively studied. To date, molecular gastric cancer stem cell (GCSC) characterization remains largely incomplete. Among the GCSC-targeting approaches to overcome tumor progression, recent studies have focused their attention on microRNA (miRNA). The miRNAs are short non-coding RNAs which play an important role in the regulation of numerous cellular processes through the modulation of their target gene expression. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent findings on the role of miRNAs in GCSC regulation. In addition, we perform a meta-analysis aimed to identify novel miRNAs involved in GCSC homeostasis.
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12
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Abstract
Breast cancer is a common malignancy with poor prognosis. Cancer cells are heterogeneous and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are primarily responsible for tumor relapse, treatment-resistance and metastasis, so for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Diets are known to be associated with carcinogenesis. Food-derived polyphenols are able to attenuate the formation and virulence of BCSCs, implying that these compounds and their analogs might be promising agents for preventing breast cancer. In the present review, we summarized the origin and surface markers of BCSCs and possible mechanisms responsible for the inhibitory effects of polyphenols on BCSCs. The suppressive effects of common dietary polyphenols against BCSCs, such as curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and related polyphenolic compounds were further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Feng Gu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- College of Food Science & Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Ying Mao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- College of Food Science & Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Du
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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13
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Rezalotfi A, Ahmadian E, Aazami H, Solgi G, Ebrahimi M. Gastric Cancer Stem Cells Effect on Th17/Treg Balance; A Bench to Beside Perspective. Front Oncol 2019; 9:226. [PMID: 31024835 PMCID: PMC6464032 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs), a small population among tumor cells, are responsible for tumor initiation, development, metastasis, and recurrence. They play a crucial role in immune evasion, immunomodulation, and impairment of effector immunity and believed to be emerged to change the balance of the immune system, importantly CD4+ T cells in the chronic inflamed tumor site. However, different subtypes of innate and adaptive immune cells are involved in the formation of the immune system in the tumor microenvironment, we would look at T cells in this study. Tumor microenvironment induces differentiation of CD4+ T cells into different subsets of T cells, mainly suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg), and T helper 17 (Th17) cells, although their exact role in tumor immunity is still under debate depending on tumor types and stages. Counterbalance between Th17 and Treg cells in the gastrointestinal system result in the homeostasis and normal function of the immune system, particularly mucosal immunity. Recent data demonstrated a high infiltration of Th17 and Treg cells into the gastric tumor site and proved that tumor microenvironment might disturb the balance between Th17 and Treg. It is possible to assume an association between activation of CSCs which contribute to metastasis in late stages, and the imbalanced Th17/Treg cells observed in advanced gastric cancer patients. This review intends to clarify the importance of gastric tumor microenvironment specifically CSCs in relation to Th17/Tregs balance firstly and to highlight the relevance of imbalanced Th17/Treg subsets in determining the stages and behavior of the tumor secondly. Finally, the present study suggests a clinical approach looking at the plasticity of T cells with a focus on Th17 as a promising dedicated arm in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaleh Rezalotfi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elmira Ahmadian
- Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, Department of Animal Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Aazami
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Students Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghasem Solgi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- *Correspondence: Ghasem Solgi
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Marzieh Ebrahimi
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14
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Gao JP, Xu W, Liu WT, Yan M, Zhu ZG. Tumor heterogeneity of gastric cancer: From the perspective of tumor-initiating cell. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:2567-2581. [PMID: 29962814 PMCID: PMC6021770 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i24.2567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the most common and malignant types of cancer due to its rapid progression, distant metastasis, and resistance to conventional chemotherapy, although efforts have been made to understand the underlying mechanism of this resistance and to improve clinical outcome. It is well recognized that tumor heterogeneity, a fundamental feature of malignancy, plays an essential role in the cancer development and chemoresistance. The model of tumor-initiating cell (TIC) has been proposed to explain the genetic, histological, and phenotypical heterogeneity of GC. TIC accounts for a minor subpopulation of tumor cells with key characteristics including high tumorigenicity, maintenance of self-renewal potential, giving rise to both tumorigenic and non-tumorigenic cancer cells, and resistance to chemotherapy. Regarding tumor-initiating cell of GC (GATIC), substantial studies have been performed to (1) identify the putative specific cell markers for purification and functional validation of GATICs; (2) trace the origin of GATICs; and (3) decode the regulatory mechanism of GATICs. Furthermore, recent studies demonstrate the plasticity of GATIC and the interaction between GATIC and its surrounding factors (TIC niche or tumor microenvironment). All these investigations pave the way for the development of GATIC-targeted therapy, which is in the phase of preclinical studies and clinical trials. Here, we interpret the heterogeneity of GC from the perspectives of TIC by reviewing the above-mentioned fundamental and clinical studies of GATICs. Problems encountered during the GATIC investigations and the potential solutions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Peng Gao
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wen-Tao Liu
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Min Yan
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zheng-Gang Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
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15
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Prieto-Vila M, Takahashi RU, Usuba W, Kohama I, Ochiya T. Drug Resistance Driven by Cancer Stem Cells and Their Niche. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18122574. [PMID: 29194401 PMCID: PMC5751177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 333] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance represents one of the greatest challenges in cancer treatment. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subset of cells within the tumor with the potential for self-renewal, differentiation and tumorigenicity, are thought to be the major cause of cancer therapy failure due to their considerable chemo- and radioresistance, resulting in tumor recurrence and eventually metastasis. CSCs are situated in a specialized microenvironment termed the niche, mainly composed of fibroblasts and endothelial, mesenchymal and immune cells, which also play pivotal roles in drug resistance. These neighboring cells promote the molecular signaling pathways required for CSC maintenance and survival and also trigger endogenous drug resistance in CSCs. In addition, tumor niche components such as the extracellular matrix also physically shelter CSCs from therapeutic agents. Interestingly, CSCs contribute directly to the niche in a bilateral feedback loop manner. Here, we review the recent advances in the study of CSCs, the niche and especially their collective contribution to resistance, since increasingly studies suggest that this interaction should be considered as a target for therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Prieto-Vila
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
| | - Ryou-U Takahashi
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
| | - Wataru Usuba
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
| | - Isaku Kohama
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan.
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