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Pennisi G, Bruzzaniti P, Burattini B, Piaser Guerrato G, Della Pepa GM, Sturiale CL, Lapolla P, Familiari P, La Pira B, D’Andrea G, Olivi A, D’Alessandris QG, Montano N. Advancements in Telomerase-Targeted Therapies for Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8700. [PMID: 39201386 PMCID: PMC11354571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a primary CNS tumor that is highly lethal in adults and has limited treatment options. Despite advancements in understanding the GBM biology, the standard treatment for GBM has remained unchanged for more than a decade. Only 6.8% of patients survive beyond five years. Telomerase, particularly the hTERT promoter mutations present in up to 80% of GBM cases, represents a promising therapeutic target due to its role in sustaining telomere length and cancer cell proliferation. This review examines the biology of telomerase in GBM and explores potential telomerase-targeted therapies. We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA-P guidelines in the MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus databases, from January 1995 to April 2024. We searched for suitable articles by utilizing the terms "GBM", "high-grade gliomas", "hTERT" and "telomerase". We incorporated studies addressing telomerase-targeted therapies into GBM studies, excluding non-English articles, reviews, and meta-analyses. We evaluated a total of 777 records and 46 full texts, including 36 studies in the final review. Several compounds aimed at inhibiting hTERT transcription demonstrated promising preclinical outcomes; however, they were unsuccessful in clinical trials owing to intricate regulatory pathways and inadequate pharmacokinetics. Direct hTERT inhibitors encountered numerous obstacles, including a prolonged latency for telomere shortening and the activation of the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The G-quadruplex DNA stabilizers appeared to be potential indirect inhibitors, but further clinical studies are required. Imetelstat, the only telomerase inhibitor that has undergone clinical trials, has demonstrated efficacy in various cancers, but its efficacy in GBM has been limited. Telomerase-targeted therapies in GBM is challenging due to complex hTERT regulation and inadequate inhibitor pharmacokinetics. Our study demonstrates that, despite promising preclinical results, no Telomerase inhibitors have been approved for GBM, and clinical trials have been largely unsuccessful. Future strategies may include Telomerase-based vaccines and multi-target inhibitors, which may provide more effective treatments when combined with a better understanding of telomere dynamics and tumor biology. These treatments have the potential to be integrated with existing ones and to improve the outcomes for patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Pennisi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Placido Bruzzaniti
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Benedetta Burattini
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Giacomo Piaser Guerrato
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Maria Della Pepa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Carmelo Lucio Sturiale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | | | - Pietro Familiari
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza, University of Rome, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Biagia La Pira
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Giancarlo D’Andrea
- Department of Neurosurgery, F. Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy; (B.L.P.); (G.D.)
| | - Alessandro Olivi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Quintino Giorgio D’Alessandris
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
| | - Nicola Montano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (B.B.); (G.P.G.); (G.M.D.P.); (C.L.S.); (A.O.); (Q.G.D.); (N.M.)
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Wu J, Song L, Lu M, Gao Q, Xu S, Zhou P, Ma T. The multifaceted functions of DNA-PKcs: implications for the therapy of human diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e613. [PMID: 38898995 PMCID: PMC11185949 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.613] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), catalytic subunit, also known as DNA-PKcs, is complexed with the heterodimer Ku70/Ku80 to form DNA-PK holoenzyme, which is well recognized as initiator in the nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) repair after double strand break (DSB). During NHEJ, DNA-PKcs is essential for both DNA end processing and end joining. Besides its classical function in DSB repair, DNA-PKcs also shows multifaceted functions in various biological activities such as class switch recombination (CSR) and variable (V) diversity (D) joining (J) recombination in B/T lymphocytes development, innate immunity through cGAS-STING pathway, transcription, alternative splicing, and so on, which are dependent on its function in NHEJ or not. Moreover, DNA-PKcs deficiency has been proven to be related with human diseases such as neurological pathogenesis, cancer, immunological disorder, and so on through different mechanisms. Therefore, it is imperative to summarize the latest findings about DNA-PKcs and diseases for better targeting DNA-PKcs, which have shown efficacy in cancer treatment in preclinical models. Here, we discuss the multifaceted roles of DNA-PKcs in human diseases, meanwhile, we discuss the progresses of DNA-PKcs inhibitors and their potential in clinical trials. The most updated review about DNA-PKcs will hopefully provide insights and ideas to understand DNA-PKcs associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghong Wu
- Cancer Research CenterBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Liwei Song
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Mingjun Lu
- Cancer Research CenterBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Qing Gao
- Cancer Research CenterBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Shaofa Xu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Ping‐Kun Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for RadiobiologyBeijing Institute of Radiation MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Teng Ma
- Cancer Research CenterBeijing Chest HospitalCapital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research InstituteBeijingChina
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Ng GYQ, Hande MP. Use of peptide nucleic acid probe to determine telomere dynamics in improving chromosome analysis in genetic toxicology studies. MUTATION RESEARCH. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2024; 897:503773. [PMID: 39054004 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2024.503773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Genetic toxicology, strategically located at the intersection of genetics and toxicology, aims to demystify the complex interplay between exogenous agents and our genetic blueprint. Telomeres, the protective termini of chromosomes, play instrumental roles in cellular longevity and genetic stability. Traditionally karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), have been indispensable tools for chromosomal analysis following exposure to genotoxic agents. However, their scope in discerning nuanced molecular dynamics is limited. Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs) are synthetic entities that embody characteristics of both proteins and nucleic acids and have emerged as potential game-changers. This perspective report comprehensively examines the vast potential of PNAs in genetic toxicology, with a specific emphasis on telomere research. PNAs' superior resolution and precision make them a favourable choice for genetic toxicological assessments. The integration of PNAs in contemporary analytical workflows heralds a promising evolution in genetic toxicology, potentially revolutionizing diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutic avenues. In this timely review, we attempted to assess the limitations of current PNA-FISH methodology and recommend refinements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Yong Quan Ng
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Manoor Prakash Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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Gala K, Jain M, Shah P, Pandey A, Garg M, Khattar E. Role of p53 transcription factor in determining the efficacy of telomerase inhibitors in cancer treatment. Life Sci 2024; 339:122416. [PMID: 38216120 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122416] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
AIM Telomerase expression is unique to cancer cells, making it a promising target for therapy. However, a major drawback of telomerase inhibition is that it affects cancer cell proliferation only when telomeres shorten, creating a lag phase post-continuous drug treatment. Acute cytotoxicity of telomerase inhibitors is dependent on their ability to induce DNA damage. p53 senses DNA damage and is the primary effector required for sensitizing cells towards apoptosis. MAIN METHODS Isogenic p53+/+ and p53-/- ovarian cancer cell lines were generated using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and the anti-cancer effect of telomerase inhibitors MST-312 and BIBR1532 were determined. Flow cytometry, real-time PCR, and western blot were performed to study cell cycle, apoptosis, and gene expression. KEY FINDINGS We report that MST-312 exhibits p53-dependent cytotoxicity, while BIBR1532 exhibits p53-independent cytotoxicity. Colony-forming ability also confirms the p53-dependent effect of MST-312. Re-expression of p53 in p53-/- cells could rescue MST-312 sensitivity. In p53+/+ cells, MST-312 causes S phase arrest and activation of p53-dependent target genes like anti-apoptosis markers (Fas and Puma) and cell cycle markers (p21 and cyclinB). In p53-/- cells, MST-312 causes S/G2/M arrest. BIBR1532 induces S/G2/M phase cell cycle arrest irrespective of p53 status. This correlates with the expression of the DNA damage marker (γ-H2AX). Long-term continuous treatment with MST-312 or BIBR1532 results in p53-independent telomere shortening. SIGNIFICANCE In summary, we demonstrate that acute anti-cancer effects of MST-312 are dependent on p53 expression. Hence, it is important to consider the p53 expression status in cancer cells when selecting and administering telomerase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Gala
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Meghna Jain
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Prachi Shah
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Amit Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Sector-125, Noida 201313, India
| | - Ekta Khattar
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India.
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Katoueezadeh M, Maleki P, Torabizadeh SA, Farsinejad A, Khalilabadi RM, Valandani HM, Nurain IO, Ashoub MH, Fatemi A. Combinatorial targeting of telomerase and DNA-PK induces synergistic apoptotic effects against Pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:163. [PMID: 38252348 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09087-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the high demand for novel approaches for leukemia-targeted therapy, this study investigates the impact of DNA-PK inhibitor NU7441 on the sensitivity of pre-B ALL cells to the telomerase inhibitor MST-312. METHODS The study involved NALM-6 cells treated with MST-312 and NU7441, assessing their viability and metabolic activity using trypan blue and MTT assays. The study also evaluated apoptosis, gene expression changes, and DNA damage using flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and micronucleus assays. The binding energy of MST-312 in the active site of telomerase was calculated using molecular docking. RESULTS The study's findings revealed a synergistic decline in both cell viability and metabolic activity in NALM-6 cells when exposed to the combined treatment of MST-312 and NU7441, and this decrease occurred without any adverse effects on healthy PBMC cells. Furthermore, the combination treatment exhibited a significantly higher induction of apoptosis than treatment with MST-312 alone, as observed through flow cytometry assay. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that this enhanced apoptosis was associated with a notable downregulation of Bcl-2 expression and an upregulation of Bax gene expression. Moreover, the combination therapy decreased expression levels of hTERT and c-Myc genes. The micronucleus assay indicated that the combination treatment increased DNA damage in NALM-6 cells. Also, a good conformation between MST-312 and the active site of telomerase was revealed by docking data. CONCLUSIONS The study suggests that simultaneous inhibition of telomerase and DNA-PK in pre-B ALL presents a novel targeted therapy approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Katoueezadeh
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parisa Maleki
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Atekeh Torabizadeh
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Farsinejad
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Comprehensive Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Roohollah Mirzaee Khalilabadi
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hajar Mardani Valandani
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ismaila Olanrewaju Nurain
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad Hossein Ashoub
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Comprehensive Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ahmad Fatemi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran.
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Sameni S, Viswanathan R, Ng GYQ, Martinez-Lopez W, Hande MP. Telomerase Inhibition by MST-312 Sensitizes Breast Cancer Cells to the Anti-cancer Properties of Plumbagin. Genome Integr 2023; 14:e20230002. [PMID: 38765717 PMCID: PMC11102071 DOI: 10.14293/genint.14.1.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cause of malignancy and the second most common cause of death due to cancer in women. This heterogeneous disease is currently broadly classified as estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) positive luminal tumors, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplified tumors and triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC). Phytochemicals are proven to be promising anti-cancer chemotherapeutics agents with minimal cytotoxic effects on normal cells. Plumbagin (5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1, 4-naphthoquinone) is a phytochemical derived from the roots of Plumbago zeylanica and it is known to possess anti-cancer properties similar to other compounds of naphthoquinones. In about 90% of cancer cells, the telomerase enzyme activity is revived to add telomeric repeats to evade apoptosis. In this study, a combinatorial approach of combining the anti-cancer compound plumbagin to induce genotoxicity and a potent telomerase inhibitor, MST-312 (synthetic derivative of tea catechins), was used to determine the combinational treatment-induced lethality in breast cancer cells such as MDA-MB-231 (TNBC) and MCF-7 (lumina) cells. MDA-MB-231 cells were responsive to combination treatment in both short-term (48 h) and long-term treatment (14 days) in a synergistic manner, whereas in MCF-7, the combination treatment was more effective in the long-term regimen. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effects of the plumbagin and MST-312 combination treatment were not recoverable after the short-term treatment. In conclusion, a combination treatment of MST-312 and plumbagin is proven to be more effective than a single plumbagin compound treatment in inducing DNA damage and telomere dysfunction leading to greater genome instability, cell cycle arrest and eventually cell death in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safoura Sameni
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ramya Viswanathan
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gavin Yong-Quan Ng
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wilner Martinez-Lopez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Associate Unit on Genomic Stability, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Republic (UdelaR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - M. Prakash Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Ali JH, Walter M. Combining old and new concepts in targeting telomerase for cancer therapy: transient, immediate, complete and combinatory attack (TICCA). Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:197. [PMID: 37679807 PMCID: PMC10483736 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03041-2] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase can overcome replicative senescence by elongation of telomeres but is also a specific element in most cancer cells. It is expressed more vastly than any other tumor marker. Telomerase as a tumor target inducing replicative immortality can be overcome by only one other mechanism: alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). This limits the probability to develop resistance to treatments. Moreover, telomerase inhibition offers some degree of specificity with a low risk of toxicity in normal cells. Nevertheless, only one telomerase antagonist reached late preclinical studies. The underlying causes, the pitfalls of telomerase-based therapies, and future chances based on recent technical advancements are summarized in this review. Based on new findings and approaches, we propose a concept how long-term survival in telomerase-based cancer therapies can be significantly improved: the TICCA (Transient Immediate Complete and Combinatory Attack) strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber Haj Ali
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Walter
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Ernst-Heydemann-Straße 6, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
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Shen Z, Wang Y, Wang G, Gu W, Zhao S, Hu X, Liu W, Cai Y, Ma Z, Gautam RK, Jia J, Wan CC, Yan T. Research progress of small-molecule drugs in targeting telomerase in human cancer and aging. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 382:110631. [PMID: 37451664 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are unique structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes, responsible for stabilizing chromosomal structures. They are synthesized by telomerase, a reverse transcriptase ribonucleoprotein complex. Telomerase activity is generally absent in human somatic cells, except in stem cells and germ cells. Every time a cell divides, the telomere sequence is shortened, eventually leading to replicative senescence and cell apoptosis when the telomeres reach a critical limit. However, most human cancer cells exhibit increased telomerase activity, allowing them to divide continuously. The importance of telomerase in cancer and aging has made developing drugs targeting telomerase a focus of research. Such drugs can inhibit cancer cell growth and delay aging by enhancing telomerase activity in telomere-related syndromes or diseases. This review provides an overview of telomeres, telomerase, and their regulation in cancer and aging, and highlights small-molecule drugs targeting telomerase in these fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Shen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yuanhui Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Guanzhen Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Wei Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Shengchao Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Xiaomeng Hu
- University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China; Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Wei Liu
- University and College Key Lab of Natural Product Chemistry and Application in Xinjiang, School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Yili Normal University, Yining, 835000, China
| | - Yi Cai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology and the State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Zhihong Ma
- Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, 313000, China
| | - Rupesh K Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Indore Institute of Pharmacy, Indore, 453331, India
| | - Jia Jia
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; Translational Medicine Center, Zhejiang Xinda hospital, School of Medicine&Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313099, China.
| | - Chunpeng Craig Wan
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory for Postharvest Technology and Nondestructive Testing of Fruits and Vegetables, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
| | - Tingdong Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai, 200444, China; Translational Medicine Center, Zhejiang Xinda hospital, School of Medicine&Nursing, Huzhou University, Huzhou, 313099, China.
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Chojak R, Fares J, Petrosyan E, Lesniak MS. Cellular senescence in glioma. J Neurooncol 2023; 164:11-29. [PMID: 37458855 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-023-04387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glioma is the most common primary brain tumor and is often associated with treatment resistance and poor prognosis. Standard treatment typically involves radiotherapy and temozolomide-based chemotherapy, both of which induce cellular senescence-a tumor suppression mechanism. DISCUSSION Gliomas employ various mechanisms to bypass or escape senescence and remain in a proliferative state. Importantly, senescent cells remain viable and secrete a large number of factors collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that, paradoxically, also have pro-tumorigenic effects. Furthermore, senescent cells may represent one form of tumor dormancy and play a role in glioma recurrence and progression. CONCLUSION In this article, we delineate an overview of senescence in the context of gliomas, including the mechanisms that lead to senescence induction, bypass, and escape. Furthermore, we examine the role of senescent cells in the tumor microenvironment and their role in tumor progression and recurrence. Additionally, we highlight potential therapeutic opportunities for targeting senescence in glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Chojak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jawad Fares
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Edgar Petrosyan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maciej S Lesniak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 676 N. St Clair Street, Suite 2210, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Telomerase: A prominent oncological target for development of chemotherapeutic agents. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115121. [PMID: 36669398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) responsible for the maintenance of chromosomal integrity by stabilizing telomere length. Telomerase is a widely expressed hallmark responsible for replicative immortality in 80-90% of malignant tumors. Cancer cells produce telomerase which prevents telomere shortening by adding telomeres sequences beyond Hayflick's limit; which enables them to divide uncontrollably. The activity of telomerase is relatively low in somatic cells and absent in normal cells, but the re-activation of this RNP in normal cells suppresses p53 activity which leads to the avoidance of senescence causing malignancy. Here, we have focused explicitly on various anti-telomerase therapies and telomerase-inhibiting molecules for the treatment of cancer. We have covered molecules that are reported in developmental, preclinical, and clinical trial stages as potent telomerase inhibitors. Apart from chemotherapy, we have also included details of immunotherapy, gene therapy, G-quadruplex stabilizers, and HSP-90 inhibitors. The purpose of this work is to discuss the challenges behind the development of novel telomerase inhibitors and to identify various perspectives for designing anti-telomerase compounds.
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11
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Molecular targets that sensitize cancer to radiation killing: From the bench to the bedside. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114126. [PMID: 36521246 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114126] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is a standard cytotoxic therapy against solid cancers. It uses ionizing radiation to kill tumor cells through damage to DNA, either directly or indirectly. Radioresistance is often associated with dysregulated DNA damage repair processes. Most radiosensitizers enhance radiation-mediated DNA damage and reduce the rate of DNA repair ultimately leading to accumulation of DNA damages, cell-cycle arrest, and cell death. Recently, agents targeting key signals in DNA damage response such as DNA repair pathways and cell-cycle have been developed. This new class of molecularly targeted radiosensitizing agents is being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies to monitor their activity in potentiating radiation cytotoxicity of tumors and reducing normal tissue toxicity. The molecular pathways of DNA damage response are reviewed with a focus on the repair mechanisms, therapeutic targets under current clinical evaluation including ATM, ATR, CDK1, CDK4/6, CHK1, DNA-PKcs, PARP-1, Wee1, & MPS1/TTK and potential new targets (BUB1, and DNA LIG4) for radiation sensitization.
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12
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Oktem EK, Yazar M. Drug Repositioning Identifies Six Drug Candidates for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases by Integrative Analyses of Transcriptomes from Scleroderma, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Sjogren's Syndrome. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2022; 26:683-693. [PMID: 36378860 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2022.0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms of systemic autoimmune diseases (ADs) are still not clearly understood. Understanding the etiology of systemic ADs and identifying new therapeutic targets require a systems science approach. Using publicly available transcriptome data and bioinformatic analysis, we investigated the differential gene expression profiles of patients with scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Sjogren's syndrome. Of these common differentially expressed gene signatures, 208 were regulated in the same direction (either upregulated or downregulated in all datasets) and used for drug repositioning. Six small molecule drug candidates (KU-0063794, YM-155 [sepantronium bromide], MST-312 [telomerase inhibitor IX], PLX-4720, ZM 336372, and 528116.cdx [PIK-75]) were discovered by drug repositioning as potential therapeutics for systemic ADs. The Search Tool for Chemical Interactions was used to find the anticipated target genes of the repositioned molecules. The PI3K/AKT pathway topped the list of common enriched pathways with the most anticipated target genes of the six repositioned small molecules. We also report here the molecular docking findings on the binding affinity between the repositioned drug candidates and genes from the protein-protein interaction network modules of anticipated target genes. Taken together, this study provides new insights and opens up new possibilities on both pathogenesis and treatment of systemic ADs through drug repositioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Kubat Oktem
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Metin Yazar
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Telomerase inhibitor MST-312 and quercetin synergistically inhibit cancer cell proliferation by promoting DNA damage. Transl Oncol 2022; 27:101569. [PMID: 36274541 PMCID: PMC9596868 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with well-established anti-proliferative activities against a variety of cancers. Telomerase inhibitor MST-312 also exhibits anti-proliferative effect on various cancer cells independent of its effect on telomere shortening. However, due to their low absorption and toxicity at higher doses, their clinical development is limited. In the present study, we examine the synergistic potential of their combination in cancer cells, which may result in a decrease in the therapeutic dosage of these compounds. We report that MST-312 and quercetin exhibit strong synergism in ovarian cancer cells with combination index range from 0.2 to 0.7. Co-treatment with MST-312 and quercetin upregulates the DNA damage and augments apoptosis when compared to treatment with either compound alone or a vehicle. We also examined the effect of these compounds on the proliferation of normal ovarian surface epithelial cells (OSEs). MST-312 has a cytoprotective impact in OSEs at lower dosages, but is inhibitory at higher doses. Quercetin did not affect the OSEs proliferation at low concentrations while at higher concentrations it is inhibitory. Notably, combination of MST-312 and quercetin had no discernible impact on OSEs. These observations have significant implications for future efforts towards maximizing efficacy in cancer therapeutics as this co-treatment specifically affects cancer cells and reduces the effective dosage of both the compounds.
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14
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He F, Li X, Huo C, Chu S, Cui Z, Li Y, Wan J, Liu R. Evaluation of fluorene-caused ecotoxicological responses and the mechanism underlying its toxicity in Eisenia fetida: Multi-level analysis of biological organization. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 437:129342. [PMID: 35716570 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Fluorene is an important toxic chemical that exists ubiquitously in the environment, and it has also been suggested to exert potential deleterious effects on soil invertebrates. However, knowledge about the toxic effects of fluorene and its underlying mechanisms of the effects on key soil organism earthworms remains limited. From this view point, this study was undertaken to explore the potential effects of fluorene and its underlying mechanisms in Eisenia fetida at the level of experimental animals, tissue, cell, and molecule. It was concluded that fluorene exerted lethal activity to adult E. fetida on day 14 with the LC50 determined to be 88.61 mg/kg. Fluorene-induced ROS caused oxidative stress in E. fetida, resulting in DNA damage, protein carbonylation, and lipid peroxidation. Moreover, changed antioxidative enzymatic activities, non-enzymatic antioxidative activities, and total antioxidative capacity in E. fetida by fluorene stress are associated with antioxidative and protective effects. High-dose fluorene (> 2.5 mg/kg) exposure significantly caused histopathological lesions including the microstructure of body wall, intestine, and seminal vesicle of earthworms. Also, the reproductive system of E. fetida was clearly disrupted by fluorene stress, leading to poor reproduction ability (decreased cocoon and juvenile production) in earthworms. It is found that E. fetida growth was significantly inhibited when treated with high-dose fluorene, thereby causing normal growth disorders. Additionally, fluorene stress triggered the abnormal mRNA expression related to oxidative stress (e.g., metallothionein and heat shock protein 70), growth (translationally controlled tumour protein), reproduction (annetocin precursor) in E. fetida. Together, both high-dose and long-term exposure elicited more severe poisoning effects on earthworms using the Integrated Biological Response (IBR) index, and E. fetida coelomocyte DNA was the most negatively affected by fluorene stress. This study comprehensively evaluated fluorene-induced toxicity in E. fetida, and its underlying molecular mechanisms mediating the toxic responses have been elucidated. These findings provide valuable data for assessing potential ecological risks posed by fluorene-contaminated soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falin He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Xiangxiang Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Chengqian Huo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Shanshan Chu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Zhihan Cui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Yuze Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Jingqiang Wan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Rutao Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China.
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15
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Chan Wah Hak CML, Rullan A, Patin EC, Pedersen M, Melcher AA, Harrington KJ. Enhancing anti-tumour innate immunity by targeting the DNA damage response and pattern recognition receptors in combination with radiotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:971959. [PMID: 36106115 PMCID: PMC9465159 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.971959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the most effective and frequently used treatments for a wide range of cancers. In addition to its direct anti-cancer cytotoxic effects, ionising radiation can augment the anti-tumour immune response by triggering pro-inflammatory signals, DNA damage-induced immunogenic cell death and innate immune activation. Anti-tumour innate immunity can result from recruitment and stimulation of dendritic cells (DCs) which leads to tumour-specific adaptive T-cell priming and immunostimulatory cell infiltration. Conversely, radiotherapy can also induce immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory mediators that can confer radioresistance. Targeting the DNA damage response (DDR) concomitantly with radiotherapy is an attractive strategy for overcoming radioresistance, both by enhancing the radiosensitivity of tumour relative to normal tissues, and tipping the scales in favour of an immunostimulatory tumour microenvironment. This two-pronged approach exploits genomic instability to circumvent immune evasion, targeting both hallmarks of cancer. In this review, we describe targetable DDR proteins (PARP (poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase); ATM/ATR (ataxia-telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related), DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit) and Wee1 (Wee1-like protein kinase) and their potential intersections with druggable immunomodulatory signalling pathways, including nucleic acid-sensing mechanisms (Toll-like receptors (TLR); cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors), and how these might be exploited to enhance radiation therapy. We summarise current preclinical advances, recent and ongoing clinical trials and the challenges of therapeutic combinations with existing treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Rullan
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel C. Patin
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malin Pedersen
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan A. Melcher
- Translational Immunotherapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J. Harrington
- Targeted Therapy Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
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16
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Parveen S, Jafri S, Yasir Khan H, Tabassum S, Arjmand F. Elucidating the interaction of enantiomeric Cu(II) complexes with DNA, RNA and HSA: A comparative study. Polyhedron 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.poly.2021.115501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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17
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Lozinski M, Bowden NA, Graves MC, Fay M, Tooney PA. DNA damage repair in glioblastoma: current perspectives on its role in tumour progression, treatment resistance and PIKKing potential therapeutic targets. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:961-981. [PMID: 34057732 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00613-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aggressive, invasive and treatment resistant nature of glioblastoma makes it one of the most lethal cancers in humans. Total surgical resection is difficult, and a combination of radiation and chemotherapy is used to treat the remaining invasive cells beyond the tumour border by inducing DNA damage and activating cell death pathways in glioblastoma cells. Unfortunately, recurrence is common and a major hurdle in treatment, often met with a more aggressive and treatment resistant tumour. A mechanism of resistance is the response of DNA repair pathways upon treatment-induced DNA damage, which enact cell-cycle arrest and repair of DNA damage that would otherwise cause cell death in tumour cells. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we discuss the significance of DNA repair mechanisms in tumour formation, aggression and treatment resistance. We identify an underlying trend in the literature, wherein alterations in DNA repair pathways facilitate glioma progression, while established high-grade gliomas benefit from constitutively active DNA repair pathways in the repair of treatment-induced DNA damage. We also consider the clinical feasibility of inhibiting DNA repair in glioblastoma and current strategies of using DNA repair inhibitors as agents in combination with chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy. Finally, the importance of blood-brain barrier penetrance when designing novel small-molecule inhibitors is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Lozinski
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Nikola A Bowden
- Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Moira C Graves
- Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Fay
- Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- Genesis Cancer Care, Gateshead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul A Tooney
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
- Centre for Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
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18
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Zanda E, Busto N, Biancalana L, Zacchini S, Biver T, Garcia B, Marchetti F. Anticancer and antibacterial potential of robust Ruthenium(II) arene complexes regulated by choice of α-diimine and halide ligands. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 344:109522. [PMID: 34029541 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Several complexes of general formula [Ru(halide)(η6-p-cymene)(α-diimine)]+, in the form of nitrate, triflate and hexafluorophosphate salts, including a newly synthesized iodide compound, were investigated as potential anticancer drugs and bactericides. NMR and UV-Vis studies evidenced remarkable stability of the complexes in water and cell culture medium. In general, the complexes displayed strong cytotoxicity against A2780 and A549 cancer cell lines with IC50 values in the low micromolar range, and one complex (RUCYN) emerged as the most promising one, with a significant selectivity compared to the non-cancerous HEK293 cell line. A variable affinity of the complexes for BSA and DNA binding was ascertained by spectrophotometry/fluorimetry, circular dichroism, electrophoresis and viscometry. The performance of RUCYN appears associated to enhanced cell internalization, favored by two cyclohexyl substituents, rather than to specific interaction with the evaluated biomolecules. The chloride/iodide replacement, in one case, led to increased cellular uptake and cytotoxicity at the expense of selectivity, and tuned DNA binding towards intercalation. Complexes with iodide or a valproate bioactive fragment exhibited the best antimicrobial profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Zanda
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, Università di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Natalia Busto
- Universidad de Burgos, Departamento de Química, Plaza Misael Bañuelos s/n, 09001, Burgos, Spain.
| | - Lorenzo Biancalana
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, Università di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Stefano Zacchini
- Dipartimento di Chimica Industriale "Toso Montanari", Università di Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 4, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Tarita Biver
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, I-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Begoña Garcia
- Universidad de Burgos, Departamento de Química, Plaza Misael Bañuelos s/n, 09001, Burgos, Spain
| | - Fabio Marchetti
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, Università di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, I-56124 Pisa, Italy.
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19
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Engin AB, Engin A. The Connection Between Cell Fate and Telomere. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1275:71-100. [PMID: 33539012 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-49844-3_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abolition of telomerase activity results in telomere shortening, a process that eventually destabilizes the ends of chromosomes, leading to genomic instability and cell growth arrest or death. Telomere shortening leads to the attainment of the "Hayflick limit", and the transition of cells to state of senescence. If senescence is bypassed, cells undergo crisis through loss of checkpoints. This process causes massive cell death concomitant with further telomere shortening and spontaneous telomere fusions. In functional telomere of mammalian cells, DNA contains double-stranded tandem repeats of TTAGGG. The Shelterin complex, which is composed of six different proteins, is required for the regulation of telomere length and stability in cells. Telomere protection by telomeric repeat binding protein 2 (TRF2) is dependent on DNA damage response (DDR) inhibition via formation of T-loop structures. Many protein kinases contribute to the DDR activated cell cycle checkpoint pathways, and prevent DNA replication until damaged DNA is repaired. Thereby, the connection between cell fate and telomere length-associated telomerase activity is regulated by multiple protein kinase activities. Contrarily, inactivation of DNA damage checkpoint protein kinases in senescent cells can restore cell-cycle progression into S phase. Therefore, telomere-initiated senescence is a DNA damage checkpoint response that is activated with a direct contribution from dysfunctional telomeres. In this review, in addition to the above mentioned, the choice of main repair pathways, which comprise non-homologous end joining and homologous recombination in telomere uncapping telomere dysfunctions, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Basak Engin
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Atilla Engin
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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20
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Hande V, Teo K, Srikanth P, Wong JSM, Sethu S, Martinez-Lopez W, Hande MP. Investigations on the new mechanism of action for acetaldehyde-induced clastogenic effects in human lung fibroblasts. Mutat Res 2020; 861-862:503303. [PMID: 33551104 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2020.503303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Acetaldehyde (AA) has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC, WHO) and by the US Environmental Protection Agency due to its ability to cause tumours following inhalation or alcohol consumption in animals. Humans are constantly exposed to AA through inhalation from the environment through cigarette smoke, vehicle fumes and industrial emissions as well as by persistent alcohol ingestion. Individuals with deficiencies in the enzymes that are involved in the metabolism of AA are more susceptible to its toxicity and constitute a vulnerable human population. Studies have shown that AA induces DNA damage and cytogenetic abnormalities. A study was undertaken to elucidate the clastogenic effects induced by AA and any preceding DNA damage that occurs in normal human lung fibroblasts as this will further validate the detrimental effects of inhalation exposure to AA. AA exposure induced DNA damage, involving DNA double strand breaks, which could possibly occur at the telomeric regions as well, resulting in a clastogenic effect and subsequent genomic instability, which contributed to the cell cycle arrest. The clastogenic effect induced by AA in human lung fibroblasts was evidenced by micronuclei induction and chromosomal aberrations, including those at the telomeric regions. Co-localisation between the DNA double strand breaks and telomeric regions was observed, suggesting possible induction of DNA double strand breaks due to AA exposure at the telomeric regions as a new mechanism beyond the clastogenic effect of AA. From the cell cycle profile following AA exposure, a G2/M phase arrest and a decrease in cell viability were also detected. Therefore, these effects due to AA exposure via inhalation may have implications in the development of carcinogenesis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Keith Teo
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Prarthana Srikanth
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jane See Mei Wong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Swaminathan Sethu
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, India
| | - Wilner Martinez-Lopez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay; Associate Unit on Genomic Stability, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Republic (UdelaR), Montevideo, Uruguay; Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Manoor Prakash Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India; Mangalore University, India; Tembusu College, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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21
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Dratwa M, Wysoczańska B, Łacina P, Kubik T, Bogunia-Kubik K. TERT-Regulation and Roles in Cancer Formation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:589929. [PMID: 33329574 PMCID: PMC7717964 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.589929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is a catalytic subunit of telomerase. Telomerase complex plays a key role in cancer formation by telomere dependent or independent mechanisms. Telomere maintenance mechanisms include complex TERT changes such as gene amplifications, TERT structural variants, TERT promoter germline and somatic mutations, TERT epigenetic changes, and alternative lengthening of telomere. All of them are cancer specific at tissue histotype and at single cell level. TERT expression is regulated in tumors via multiple genetic and epigenetic alterations which affect telomerase activity. Telomerase activity via TERT expression has an impact on telomere length and can be a useful marker in diagnosis and prognosis of various cancers and a new therapy approach. In this review we want to highlight the main roles of TERT in different mechanisms of cancer development and regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Dratwa
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Wysoczańska
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Łacina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kubik
- Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Electronics, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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22
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Huang RX, Zhou PK. DNA damage response signaling pathways and targets for radiotherapy sensitization in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:60. [PMID: 32355263 PMCID: PMC7192953 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0150-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 495] [Impact Index Per Article: 123.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the most common countermeasures for treating a wide range of tumors. However, the radioresistance of cancer cells is still a major limitation for radiotherapy applications. Efforts are continuously ongoing to explore sensitizing targets and develop radiosensitizers for improving the outcomes of radiotherapy. DNA double-strand breaks are the most lethal lesions induced by ionizing radiation and can trigger a series of cellular DNA damage responses (DDRs), including those helping cells recover from radiation injuries, such as the activation of DNA damage sensing and early transduction pathways, cell cycle arrest, and DNA repair. Obviously, these protective DDRs confer tumor radioresistance. Targeting DDR signaling pathways has become an attractive strategy for overcoming tumor radioresistance, and some important advances and breakthroughs have already been achieved in recent years. On the basis of comprehensively reviewing the DDR signal pathways, we provide an update on the novel and promising druggable targets emerging from DDR pathways that can be exploited for radiosensitization. We further discuss recent advances identified from preclinical studies, current clinical trials, and clinical application of chemical inhibitors targeting key DDR proteins, including DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit), ATM/ATR (ataxia-telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related), the MRN (MRE11-RAD50-NBS1) complex, the PARP (poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase) family, MDC1, Wee1, LIG4 (ligase IV), CDK1, BRCA1 (BRCA1 C terminal), CHK1, and HIF-1 (hypoxia-inducible factor-1). Challenges for ionizing radiation-induced signal transduction and targeted therapy are also discussed based on recent achievements in the biological field of radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Xue Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping-Kun Zhou
- Department of Radiation Biology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, AMMS, 100850, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory, Guangzhou Medical University, 511436, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Sui J, Zhang S, Chen BPC. DNA-dependent protein kinase in telomere maintenance and protection. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2020; 25:2. [PMID: 31988640 PMCID: PMC6969447 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-020-0199-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), which is the key regulator of canonical non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ), the predominant mechanism of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in mammals. DNA-PK consists of the DNA-binding Ku70/80 heterodimer and the catalytic subunit DNA-PKcs. They assemble at DNA ends, forming the active DNA-PK complex, which initiates NHEJ-mediated DSB repair. Paradoxically, both Ku and DNA-PKcs are associated with telomeres, and they play crucial roles in protecting the telomere against fusions. Herein, we discuss possible mechanisms and contributions of Ku and DNA-PKcs in telomere regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangdong Sui
- 1Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030 China
| | - Shichuan Zhang
- 2Department of Radiation Oncology, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Benjamin P C Chen
- 3Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 2201 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX 75390-9187 USA
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24
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Saeednejad Zanjani L, Madjd Z, Rasti A, Asgari M, Abolhasani M, Tam KJ, Roudi R, Mælandsmo GM, Fodstad Ø, Andersson Y. Spheroid-Derived Cells From Renal Adenocarcinoma Have Low Telomerase Activity and High Stem-Like and Invasive Characteristics. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1302. [PMID: 31921617 PMCID: PMC6915099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a theorized small subpopulation of cells within tumors thought to be responsible for metastasis, tumor development, disease progression, treatment-resistance, and recurrence. The identification, isolation, and biological characterization of CSCs may therefore facilitate the development of efficient therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs. This study aims to compare the biology and telomerase activity of CSCs to parental cells (PCs) in renal cancer. Renal CSCs were enriched from the ACHN cell line using a sphere culture system. Spheroid-derived cells (SDCs) and their adherent counterparts were compared with respect to their colony and sphere formation, expression of putative CSC markers, tumorigenicity in non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice, and invasiveness. The expression of genes associated with CSCs, stemness, EMT, apoptosis, and ABC transporters was also compared between the two populations using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Finally, telomerase activity, hTERT expression, and sensitivity to MST-312, a telomerase inhibitor, was investigated between the two populations. We demonstrated that a subpopulation of ACHN cells was capable of growing as spheroids with many properties similar to CSCs, including higher clonogenicity, superior colony- and sphere-forming ability, and stronger tumorigenicity and invasiveness. In addition, SDCs demonstrated a higher expression of markers for CSCs, stemness, EMT, apoptosis, and ABC transporter genes compared to PCs. The expression of hTERT and telomerase activity in SDCs was significantly lower than PCs; however, the SDC population was more sensitive to MST-312 compared to PCs. These findings indicate that the SDC population exhibits stem-like potential and invasive characteristics. Moreover, the reduced expression of hTERT and telomerase activity in SDCs demonstrated that the expressions of hTERT and telomerase activity are not always higher in CSCs. Our results also showed that MST-312 treatment inhibited SDCs more strongly than PCs and may therefore be useful as a complementary targeted therapy against renal CSCs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leili Saeednejad Zanjani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Center, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Arezoo Rasti
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences/Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojgan Asgari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Abolhasani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Kevin J Tam
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Center, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Raheleh Roudi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Gunhild Mari Mælandsmo
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Fodstad
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yvonne Andersson
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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25
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Howarth A, Madureira PA, Lockwood G, Storer LCD, Grundy R, Rahman R, Pilkington GJ, Hill R. Modulating autophagy as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of paediatric high-grade glioma. Brain Pathol 2019; 29:707-725. [PMID: 31012506 PMCID: PMC8028648 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Paediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) represent a therapeutically challenging group of tumors. Despite decades of research, there has been minimal improvement in treatment and the clinical prognosis remains poor. Autophagy, a highly conserved process for recycling metabolic substrates is upregulated in pHGG, promoting tumor progression and evading cell death. There is significant crosstalk between autophagy and a plethora of critical cellular pathways, many of which are dysregulated in pHGG. The following article will discuss our current understanding of autophagy signaling in pHGG and the potential modulation of this network as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Howarth
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, IBBSUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
| | - Patricia A. Madureira
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, IBBSUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR)University of AlgarveFaroPortugal
| | - George Lockwood
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Lisa C. D. Storer
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Richard Grundy
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Ruman Rahman
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Geoffrey J. Pilkington
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, IBBSUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
| | - Richard Hill
- Brain Tumour Research Centre, Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, IBBSUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
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26
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Wang B, Li D, Yao Y, Heyns M, Kovalchuk A, Ilnytskyy Y, Rodriguez-Juarez R, Bronson RT, Metz GAS, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. The crucial role of DNA-dependent protein kinase and myelin transcription factor 1-like protein in the miR-141 tumor suppressor network. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:2876-2892. [PMID: 31522595 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1652033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive brain tumor. Although miR-141 has been demonstrated to primarily function as a tumor suppressor in numerous malignancies, including glioblastoma, the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. Here, it is shown that miR-141 is downregulated in glioblastoma cell lines and tissues and may exert its biological function via directly targeting myelin transcription factor 1-like (MYT1L). Using two glioblastoma cell lines that differ from each other by the functionality of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNAPK), a functional involvement of DNAPK in the miR-141 tumor suppression network was observed. In M059K cells with a normal function of DNAPK, the enforced expression of miR-141 attenuated MYT1L expression and suppressed cell proliferation. Conversely, the inhibition of miR-141 expression promoted cell proliferation; however, in M059J cells with a loss-of-function DNAPK, miR-141 constitutively inhibited cell proliferation upon ectopic overexpression or inhibition. An overexpression of miR-141 suppressed M059J cell migration, while it had no effect on M059K. Furthermore, the ectopic expression of miR-141 induced an S-phase arrest in both cell lines, whereas the inhibition of miR-141 caused a G1 arrest in M059J and accelerated the S phase in M059K. An overexpression and suppression of miR-141 resulted in an aberrant expression of cell-cycle proteins, including p21. Moreover, MYT1L may be a transcription factor of p21 in p53-mutant cells, whereas DNAPK may function as a repressor of MYT1L. The findings revealed the crucial role of DNAPK in miR-141-mediated suppression of gliomagenesis and demonstrated that it may be a target molecule in miR-141-associated therapeutic interventions for glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Dongping Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Youli Yao
- Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Yangzhou University , Yangzhou , P.R. China.,Department of Neuroscience, Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Mieke Heyns
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Anna Kovalchuk
- Department of Neuroscience, Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Yaroslav Ilnytskyy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | | | | | - Gerlinde A S Metz
- Department of Neuroscience, Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge , Lethbridge , Canada
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27
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Ameri Z, Ghiasi S, Farsinejad A, Hassanshahi G, Ehsan M, Fatemi A. Telomerase inhibitor MST-312 induces apoptosis of multiple myeloma cells and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic, proliferative and inflammatory genes. Life Sci 2019; 228:66-71. [PMID: 31029779 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The telomerase-based therapy of cancer has received a great deal of attention due to the fact that it is expressed in almost all of the cancer cells while it is inactivated in most of the normal somatic cells. Current investigation was aimed to examine the effects of namely telomerase inhibitor, the MST-312, as a chemically modified derivative of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), on human multiple myeloma cell line U-266. MAIN METHODS U-266 cells were cultured and then treated by MST-312. The viability of cultured cells was measured by both trypan blue staining and MTT assay techniques. To examine the apoptosis, annexin-V/7-AAD staining using flow cytometry method was employed. To analysis the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, c-Myc, hTERT, IL-6 and TNF-α genes, the quantitative real-time PCR was employed. KEY FINDINGS We observed the short-term dose-dependent cytotoxic and apoptotic effect of MST-312 against U-266 myeloma cells. Gene expression analysis indicated that the MST-312-based apoptosis was associated with up-regulation of pro-apoptotic gene (Bax) as well as down-regulation of anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2), proliferative (c-Myc, hTERT) and inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α) genes. SIGNIFICANCE These findings suggest that telomerase-based therapy using MST-312 may represent a novel promising strategy for treatment of multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Ameri
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Ghiasi
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Farsinejad
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Hassanshahi
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Molecular Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ehsan
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ahmad Fatemi
- Department of Hematology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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28
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Wei J, Yang Q, Shi J, Shi B, Ji M, Hou P. Increased expression of NAF1 contributes to malignant phenotypes of glioma cells through promoting protein synthesis and associates with poor patient survival. Oncogenesis 2019; 8:25. [PMID: 30936423 PMCID: PMC6443650 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-019-0134-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The H/ACA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex noncore subunit NAF1 is an indispensable factor during H/ACA RNP maturation, and one of the widely known functions of H/ACA RNP is modulating ribosome biosynthesis. However, the specific biological role and exact mechanism of NAF1 in human cancers including glioma remain largely unclear. In this study, we found that NAF1 was highly expressed in gliomas relative to normal brain tissues, and demonstrated that increased expression of NAF1 was strongly correlated with poor patient survival. Further studies revealed that NAF1 was transcriptionally regulated by c-Myc, NRF2, and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), which are the key molecules associated with malignant progression of gliomas. Moreover, we demonstrated that NAF1 was a functional oncogene in glioma cells through promoting cell growth in vitro and in vivo, survival, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, NAF1 acted as a rate-limiting controller of cell growth and invasiveness through enhancing 40S subunit assembly and protein synthesis including c-Myc, NRF2, TERT, POLR1A, and POLR2A. These molecules in turn enhanced the transcription and translation of NAF1, thereby forming positive feedback loops between them to promote malignant phenotypes of glioma cells. In addition, our data also showed that NAF1 depletion could trigger ribosome stress, not only impairing ribosomal biosynthesis but also reactivating p53 signaling via blocking MDM2. Taken together, we demonstrated that NAF1 promotes the tumorigenesis and progression of glioma through modulating ribosome assembly and protein synthesis, and predicted that NAF1 may be a potential therapeutic target and valuable prognostic biomarker in gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wei
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province and Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province and Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jing Shi
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province and Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Bingyin Shi
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province and Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Meiju Ji
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Peng Hou
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Precision Medicine of Shaanxi Province and Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
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29
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Ghasemimehr N, Farsinejad A, Mirzaee Khalilabadi R, Yazdani Z, Fatemi A. The telomerase inhibitor MST-312 synergistically enhances the apoptotic effect of doxorubicin in pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 106:1742-1750. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.07.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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30
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DNA-dependent protein kinase modulates the anti-cancer properties of silver nanoparticles in human cancer cells. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2017; 824:32-41. [PMID: 29150048 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (Ag-np) were reported to be toxic to eukaryotic cells. These potentially detrimental effects of Ag-np can be advantageous in experimental therapeutics. They are currently being employed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of cancer drugs. In this study, we demonstrate that Ag-np treatment trigger the activation of DNA-PKcs and JNK pathway at selected doses, presumably as a physiologic response to DNA damage and repair in normal and malignant cells. Ag-np altered the telomere dynamics by disrupting the shelterin complex located at the telomeres and telomere lengths. The genotoxic effect of Ag-np was not restricted to telomeres but the entire genome as Ag-np induced γ-H2AX foci formation, an indicator of global DNA damage. Inhibition of DNA-PKcs activity sensitised the cancer cells towards the cytotoxicity of Ag-np and substantiated the damaging effect of Ag-np at telomeres in human cancer cells. Abrogation of JNK mediated DNA repair and extensive damage of telomeres led to greater cell death following Ag-np treatment in DNA-PKcs inhibited cancer cells. Collectively, this study suggests that improved anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects of Ag-np treatment in cancer cells can be achieved by the inhibition of DNA-PKcs.
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31
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Abstract
Bacteria and viruses possess circular DNA, whereas eukaryotes with typically very large DNA molecules have had to evolve into linear chromosomes to circumvent the problem of supercoiling circular DNA of that size. Consequently, such organisms possess telomeres to cap chromosome ends. Telomeres are essentially tandem repeats of any DNA sequence that are present at the ends of chromosomes. Their biology has been an enigmatic one, involving various molecules interacting dynamically in an evolutionarily well-trimmed fashion. Telomeres range from canonical hexameric repeats in most eukaryotes to unimaginably random retrotransposons, which attach to chromosome ends and reverse-transcribe to DNA in some plants and insects. Telomeres invariably associate with specialised protein complexes that envelop it, also regulating access of the ends to legitimate enzymes involved in telomere metabolism. They also transcribe into repetitive RNA which also seems to be playing significant roles in telomere maintenance. Telomeres thus form the intersection of DNA, protein, and RNA molecules acting in concert to maintain chromosome integrity. Telomere biology is emerging to appear ever more complex than previously envisaged, with the continual discovery of more molecules and interplays at the telomeres. This review also includes a section dedicated to the history of telomere biology, and intends to target the scientific audience new to the field by rendering an understanding of the phenomenon of chromosome end protection at large, with more emphasis on the biology of human telomeres. The review provides an update on the field and mentions the questions that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriram Venkatesan
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597 Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Aik Kia Khaw
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597 Singapore, Singapore.
- Clinical Research Unit, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, 768828 Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Manoor Prakash Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597 Singapore, Singapore.
- Tembusu College, National University of Singapore, 138598 Singapore, Singapore.
- VIT University, Vellore 632014, India.
- Mangalore University, Mangalore 574199, India.
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32
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Chen Y, Zhang Y. Functional and mechanistic analysis of telomerase: An antitumor drug target. Pharmacol Ther 2016; 163:24-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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33
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Wang M, Yu Y, Liang C, Lu A, Zhang G. Recent Advances in Developing Small Molecules Targeting Nucleic Acid. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17060779. [PMID: 27248995 PMCID: PMC4926330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17060779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acids participate in a large number of biological processes. However, current approaches for small molecules targeting protein are incompatible with nucleic acids. On the other hand, the lack of crystallization of nucleic acid is the limiting factor for nucleic acid drug design. Because of the improvements in crystallization in recent years, a great many structures of nucleic acids have been reported, providing basic information for nucleic acid drug discovery. This review focuses on the discovery and development of small molecules targeting nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maolin Wang
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Shenzhen Lab of Combinatorial Compounds and Targeted Drug Delivery, HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Shenzhen Lab of Combinatorial Compounds and Targeted Drug Delivery, HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
| | - Chao Liang
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Shenzhen Lab of Combinatorial Compounds and Targeted Drug Delivery, HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
| | - Aiping Lu
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Shenzhen Lab of Combinatorial Compounds and Targeted Drug Delivery, HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
| | - Ge Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Bioinfomedicine and Translational Science (IBTS), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
- Shenzhen Lab of Combinatorial Compounds and Targeted Drug Delivery, HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China.
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34
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Samadder P, Aithal R, Belan O, Krejci L. Cancer TARGETases: DSB repair as a pharmacological target. Pharmacol Ther 2016; 161:111-131. [PMID: 26899499 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a disease attributed to the accumulation of DNA damages due to incapacitation of DNA repair pathways resulting in genomic instability and a mutator phenotype. Among the DNA lesions, double stranded breaks (DSBs) are the most toxic forms of DNA damage which may arise as a result of extrinsic DNA damaging agents or intrinsic replication stress in fast proliferating cancer cells. Accurate repair of DSBs is therefore paramount to the cell survival, and several classes of proteins such as kinases, nucleases, helicases or core recombinational proteins have pre-defined jobs in precise execution of DSB repair pathways. On one hand, the proper functioning of these proteins ensures maintenance of genomic stability in normal cells, and on the other hand results in resistance to various drugs employed in cancer therapy and therefore presents a suitable opportunity for therapeutic targeting. Higher relapse and resistance in cancer patients due to non-specific, cytotoxic therapies is an alarming situation and it is becoming more evident to employ personalized treatment based on the genetic landscape of the cancer cells. For the success of personalized treatment, it is of immense importance to identify more suitable targetable proteins in DSB repair pathways and also to explore new synthetic lethal interactions with these pathways. Here we review the various alternative approaches to target the various protein classes termed as cancer TARGETases in DSB repair pathway to obtain more beneficial and selective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pounami Samadder
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; International Clinical Research Center, Center for Biomolecular and Cellular Engineering, St. Anne's University Hospital in Brno, 60200 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rakesh Aithal
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Biology, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ondrej Belan
- Department of Biology, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lumir Krejci
- National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; International Clinical Research Center, Center for Biomolecular and Cellular Engineering, St. Anne's University Hospital in Brno, 60200 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Biology, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic.
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35
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Mistrik M, Vesela E, Furst T, Hanzlikova H, Frydrych I, Gursky J, Majera D, Bartek J. Cells and Stripes: A novel quantitative photo-manipulation technique. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19567. [PMID: 26777522 PMCID: PMC4726120 DOI: 10.1038/srep19567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Laser micro-irradiation is a technology widely used in the DNA damage response, checkpoint signaling, chromatin remodeling and related research fields, to assess chromatin modifications and recruitment of diverse DNA damage sensors, mediators and repair proteins to sites of DNA lesions. While this approach has aided numerous discoveries related to cell biology, maintenance of genome integrity, aging and cancer, it has so far been limited by a tedious manual definition of laser-irradiated subcellular regions, with the ensuing restriction to only a small number of cells treated and analyzed in a single experiment. Here, we present an improved and versatile alternative to the micro-irradiation approach: Quantitative analysis of photo-manipulated samples using innovative settings of standard laser-scanning microscopes. Up to 200 cells are simultaneously exposed to a laser beam in a defined pattern of collinear rays. The induced striation pattern is then automatically evaluated by a simple algorithm, which provides a quantitative assessment of various laser-induced phenotypes in live or fixed cells. Overall, this new approach represents a more robust alternative to existing techniques, and provides a versatile tool for a wide range of applications in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Mistrik
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Vesela
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Furst
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Hanzlikova
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivo Frydrych
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Gursky
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Dusana Majera
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Bartek
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic.,Institute of Molecular Genetics of the ASCR, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic.,Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Wang W, Long L, Wang L, Tan C, Fei X, Chen L, Huang Q, Liang Z. Knockdown of Cathepsin L promotes radiosensitivity of glioma stem cells both in vivo and in vitro. Cancer Lett 2015; 371:274-84. [PMID: 26706414 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The presence of glioma stem cells (GSCs) in tumor is relevant for glioma treatment resistance. This study assessed whether knockdown of Cathepsin L can influence GSC growth, tumor radiosensitivity, and clinical outcome. Protein levels of Cathepsin L and stem cell markers (CD133 and Nestin) were analyzed in samples from 90 gliomas of different WHO grades and 6 normal brain tissues by immunohistochemistry. Two glioma stem cell lines with overexpressed Cathepsin L were stably transfected with Cathepsin L short hairpin RNA expression vectors. The effects of Cathepsin L inhibition on radiosensitivity, self-renewal, stemness, DNA damage, and apoptosis were evaluated. In addition, an intracranial animal model and subcutaneous tumor xenografts in nude mice were used to assess tumor response to Cathepsin L inhibition in vivo. Our results proved that expressions of Cathepsin L and CD133, but not of Nestin, correlated with malignant grades of glioma tissues. GSCs with high Cathepsin L and CD133 co-expression were extraordinarily radioresistant. Cathepsin L inhibition with radiotherapy significantly reduced GSC growth, promoted apoptosis, and improved radiosensitivity. Knockdown of Cathepsin L resulted in a dramatic reduction of CD133 expression, as well as the decreased phosphorylation of DNA repair checkpoint proteins (ATM and DNA-PKcs). Furthermore, combination of Cathepsin L inhibition and radiotherapy potently blocked tumor growth and decreased blood vessel formation in vivo. Taken together, these findings suggest Cathepsin L as a promising therapeutic target for clinical therapy in GBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Linmei Long
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Caihong Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xifeng Fei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Suzhou Kowloon Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Leisong Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhongqin Liang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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Fatemi A, Safa M, Kazemi A. MST-312 induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in APL cells through inhibition of telomerase activity and suppression of NF-κB pathway. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:8425-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3575-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Gurung RL, Lim SN, Low GKM, Hande MP. MST-312 Alters Telomere Dynamics, Gene Expression Profiles and Growth in Human Breast Cancer Cells. JOURNAL OF NUTRIGENETICS AND NUTRIGENOMICS 2015; 7:283-98. [PMID: 26022559 DOI: 10.1159/000381346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting telomerase is a potential cancer management strategy given that it allows unlimited cellular replication in the majority of cancers. Dysfunctional telomeres are recognized as double-strand breaks. However, the status of DNA repair response pathways following telomerase inhibition is not well understood in human breast cancer cells. Here, we evaluated the effects of MST-312, a chemically modified derivative from tea catechin, epigallocatechin gallate, on telomere dynamics and DNA damage gene expression in breast cancer cells. METHODOLOGY Breast cancer cells MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 were treated with MST-312, and telomere-telomerase homeostasis, induced DNA damage and gene expression profiling were analyzed. RESULTS MST-312 decreased telomerase activity and induced telomere dysfunction and growth arrest in breast cancer cells with more profound effects in MDA-MB-231 than in MCF-7 cells. Consistent with these data, the telomere-protective protein TRF2 was downregulated in MDA-MB-231 cells. MST-312 induced DNA damage at telomeres accompanied by reduced expression of DNA damage-related genes ATM and RAD50. Co-treatment with MST-312 and the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) inhibitor PJ-34 further enhanced growth reduction as compared to single treatment with MST-312 or PJ-34. CONCLUSIONS Our work demonstrates potential importance for the establishment of antitelomerase cancer therapy using MST-312 along with PARP-1 inhibition in breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resham Lal Gurung
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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