1
|
Zhang Y, Chen Y, Guo Q, Zhang Y, Liu A. Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO)-induced upregulation of flotillin-2 (FLOT2) contributes to cancer aggressiveness in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) via activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 758:110072. [PMID: 38914215 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110072] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The role of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO)-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-demethylation has been investigated in various types of cancers, but it is still unclear whether FTO participates in the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Here, by conducting Real-Time qPCR and Western Blot analysis, we verified that FTO was especially enriched in the DLBCL cells (RCK-8, LY-3, DHL-6 and U2932) compared to normal WIL2S cells. Then, the overexpression and silencing vectors for FTO were delivered into the LY-3 and U2932 cells, and our functional experiments confirmed that silencing of FTO suppressed cell viability and division, and induced apoptotic cell death in the DLBCL cells, whereas FTO-overexpression exerted opposite effects. Further mechanical experiments showed that FTO demethylated m6A modifications in flotillin-2 (FLOT2) mRNA to sustain its stability for FLOT2 upregulation, and elevated FLOT2 subsequently increased the expression levels of phosphorylated PI3K (p-PI3K), p-Akt and p-mTOR to activate the tumor-initiating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway. Of note, FLOT2 also serve as an oncogene to enhance cancer malignancy in DLBCL, and the rescuing experiments showed that FTO-ablation induced suppressing effects on the malignant phenotypes in DLBCL were all abrogated by overexpressing FLOT2. Taken together, those data hinted that FTO-mediated m6A-demethylation upregulated FLOT2 to activate the downstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway, leading to the aggressiveness of DLBCL, which potentially provided diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic biomarkers for DLBCL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Zhang
- Hemolymph Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China; Department of Hematology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Yao Chen
- Hemolymph Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Hematology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Aichun Liu
- Hemolymph Department, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Y, Jin H, Li Q, Shi L, Mao Y, Zhao L. The role of RNA methylation in tumor immunity and its potential in immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:130. [PMID: 38902779 PMCID: PMC11188252 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02041-8] [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: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation, a prevalent post-transcriptional modification, has garnered considerable attention in research circles. It exerts regulatory control over diverse biological functions by modulating RNA splicing, translation, transport, and stability. Notably, studies have illuminated the substantial impact of RNA methylation on tumor immunity. The primary types of RNA methylation encompass N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), and N7-methylguanosine (m7G), and 3-methylcytidine (m3C). Compelling evidence underscores the involvement of RNA methylation in regulating the tumor microenvironment (TME). By affecting RNA translation and stability through the "writers", "erasers" and "readers", RNA methylation exerts influence over the dysregulation of immune cells and immune factors. Consequently, RNA methylation plays a pivotal role in modulating tumor immunity and mediating various biological behaviors, encompassing proliferation, invasion, metastasis, etc. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms and functions of several RNA methylations, providing a comprehensive overview of their biological roles and underlying mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment and among immunocytes. By exploring how these RNA modifications mediate tumor immune evasion, we also examine their potential applications in immunotherapy. This review aims to provide novel insights and strategies for identifying novel targets in RNA methylation and advancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haoer Jin
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qingling Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liangrong Shi
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yitao Mao
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Luqing Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ren M, Pan H, Zhou X, Yu M, Ji F. KIAA1429 promotes gastric cancer progression by destabilizing RASD1 mRNA in an m 6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner. J Transl Med 2024; 22:584. [PMID: 38902717 PMCID: PMC11191263 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05375-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND KIAA1429, a regulatory subunit of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase complex, has been implicated in the progression of various cancers. However, the role of KIAA1429 in gastric cancer (GC) and its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the role of KIAA1429 in GC and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. METHODS The expression patterns and clinical relevance of KIAA1429 in GC were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and bioinformatic analysis. In vitro and in vivo loss- and gain-of-function assays, m6A dot blot assays, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), RNA-seq, MeRIP-qPCR, dual luciferase reporter assays, RNA stability assays, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, and RNA pull-down assays were performed to investigate the biological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of KIAA1429 in GC. RESULTS Both the mRNA and protein expression of KIAA1429 were greater in GC tissues than in normal gastric tissues. High KIAA1429 expression correlated positively with poor prognosis in GC patients. KIAA1429 not only promoted GC cell proliferation, colony formation, G2/M cell cycle transition, migration, and invasion in vitro but also enhanced GC tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, KIAA1429 increased the m6A level of RASD1 mRNA and enhanced its stability in an m6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner, thereby upregulating its expression. RASD1 knockdown partially rescued the KIAA1429 knockdown-induced impairment of pro‑oncogenic ability in GC cells. The expression levels of KIAA1429 and RASD1 were negatively correlated in GC tissues. CONCLUSIONS KIAA1429 plays a pro‑oncogenic role in GC by downregulating RASD1 expression through destabilizing RASD1 mRNA in an m6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner. KIAA1429 may serve as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Ren
- Cancer Center, Department of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hanghai Pan
- Cancer Center, Department of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinxin Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mosang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Feng Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang S, Xu L, Zhuang H, Li F, Lu Y. A new perspective on hematological malignancies: m6A modification in immune microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1374390. [PMID: 38868768 PMCID: PMC11168112 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1374390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy for hematological malignancies is a rapidly advancing field that has gained momentum in recent years, primarily encompassing chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and other modalities. However, its clinical efficacy remains limited, and drug resistance poses a significant challenge. Therefore, novel immunotherapeutic targets and agents need to be identified. Recently, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA epitope modification, has emerged as a pivotal factor in various malignancies. Reportedly, m6A mutations influence the immunological microenvironment of hematological malignancies, leading to immune evasion and compromising the anti-tumor immune response in hematological malignancies. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the roles of the currently identified m6A modifications in various hematological malignancies, with a particular focus on their impact on the immune microenvironment. Additionally, we provide an overview of the research progress made in developing m6A-targeted drugs for hematological tumor therapy, to offer novel clinical insights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Yang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Liping Xu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Haihui Zhuang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Fenglin Li
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated People’s Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Institute of Hematology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wei H, Li W, Yang M, Fang Q, Nian J, Huang Y, Wei Q, Huang Z, Liu G, Xu Z, Hu A, Pu J. METTL3/16-mediated m 6A modification of ZNNT1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by activating ZNNT1/osteopontin/S100A9 positive feedback loop-mediated crosstalk between macrophages and tumour cells. Clin Immunol 2024; 261:109924. [PMID: 38310994 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.109924] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages are the major components of tumour microenvironment, which play critical roles in tumour development. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) also contributes to tumour progression. However, the potential roles of m6A in modulating macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are poorly understood. Here, we identified ZNNT1 as an HCC-related m6A modification target, which was upregulated and associated with poor prognosis of HCC. METTL3 and METTL16-mediated m6A modification contributed to ZNNT1 upregulation through stabilizing ZNNT1 transcript. ZNNT1 exerted oncogenic roles in HCC. Furthermore, ZNNT1 recruited and induced M2 polarization of macrophages via up-regulating osteopontin (OPN) expression and secretion. M2 Macrophages-recruited by ZNNT1-overexpressed HCC cells secreted S100A9, which further upregulated ZNNT1 expression in HCC cells via AGER/NF-κB signaling. Thus, this study demonstrates that m6A modification activated the ZNNT1/OPN/S100A9 positive feedback loop, which promoted macrophages recruitment and M2 polarization, and enhanced malignant features of HCC cells. m6A modification-triggered ZNNT1/OPN/S100A9 feedback loop represents potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huamei Wei
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Wenchuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Meng Yang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Quan Fang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jiahui Nian
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Youguan Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Qing Wei
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zihua Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Guoman Liu
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zuoming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Anbin Hu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China; The Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, No. 18 Zhongshan two Road, Baise 533000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu X, Zeng M, Wei Y, Lu R, Huang Z, Huang L, Huang Y, Lu Y, Li W, Wei H, Pu J. METTL3 and METTL14-mediated N 6-methyladenosine modification of SREBF2-AS1 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma progression and sorafenib resistance through DNA demethylation of SREBF2. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6155. [PMID: 38486042 PMCID: PMC10940719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55932-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
As the most prevalent epitranscriptomic modification, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) shows important roles in a variety of diseases through regulating the processing, stability and translation of target RNAs. However, the potential contributions of m6A to RNA functions are unclear. Here, we identified a functional and prognosis-related m6A-modified RNA SREBF2-AS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The expression of SREBF2-AS1 and SREBF2 in HCC tissues and cells was measured by RT-qPCR. m6A modification level of SREBF2-AS1 was measured by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The roles of SREBF2-AS1 in HCC progression and sorafenib resistance were investigated by proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and cell viability assays. The regulatory mechanisms of SREBF2-AS1 on SREBF2 were investigated by Chromatin isolation by RNA purification, RNA immunoprecipitation, CUT&RUN, and bisulfite DNA sequencing assays. Our findings showed that the expression of SREBF2-AS1 was increased in HCC tissues and cells, and positively correlated with poor survival of HCC patients. m6A modification level of SREBF2-AS1 was also increased in HCC and positively correlated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. METTL3 and METTL14-induced m6A modification upregulated SREBF2-AS1 expression through increasing SREBF2-AS1 transcript stability. Functional assays showed that only m6A-modified, but not non-modified SREBF2-AS1 promoted HCC progression and sorafenib resistance. Mechanistic investigations revealed that m6A-modified SREBF2-AS1 bound and recruited m6A reader FXR1 and DNA 5-methylcytosine dioxygenase TET1 to SREBF2 promoter, leading to DNA demethylation at SREBF2 promoter and the upregulation of SREBF2 transcription. Functional rescue assays showed that SREBF2 was the critical mediator of the oncogenic roles of SREBF2-AS1 in HCC. Together, this study showed that m6A-modified SREBF2-AS1 exerted oncogenic roles in HCC through inducing DNA demethylation and transcriptional activation of SREBF2, and suggested m6A-modified SREBF2-AS1 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianjian Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Min Zeng
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yunyu Wei
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Rongzhou Lu
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zheng Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Lizheng Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Wenchuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Huamei Wei
- Clinical Pathological Diagnosis and Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China.
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang C, Yuan L, Zou Q, Shao C, Jia Y, Li J, Liao Y, Zhao X, Wen W, Jing X, Yang G, Wang W, Jiang H, Yao S. CircMAST1 inhibits cervical cancer progression by hindering the N4-acetylcytidine modification of YAP mRNA. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:25. [PMID: 38331765 PMCID: PMC10854152 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00540-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer (CCa) is the fourth most common cancer among females, with high incidence and mortality rates. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators of various biological processes in cancer. However, the biological role of circRNAs in cervical cancer (CCa) remains largely unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the role of circMAST1 in CCa. METHODS CircRNAs related to CCa progression were identified via a circRNA microarray. The relationship between circMAST1 levels and clinicopathological features of CCa was evaluated using the clinical specimens and data of 131 patients with CCa. In vivo and in vitro experiments, including xenograft animal models, cell proliferation assay, transwell assay, RNA pull-down assay, whole-transcriptome sequencing, RIP assay, and RNA-FISH, were performed to investigate the effects of circMAST1 on the malignant behavior of CCa. RESULTS CircMAST1 was significantly downregulated in CCa tissues, and low expression of CircMAST1 was correlated with a poor prognosis. Moreover, our results demonstrated that circMAST1 inhibited tumor growth and lymph node metastasis of CCa. Mechanistically, circMAST1 competitively sequestered N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) and hindered Yes-associated protein (YAP) mRNA ac4C modification to promote its degradation and inhibit tumor progression in CCa. CONCLUSIONS CircMAST1 plays a major suppressive role in the tumor growth and metastasis of CCa. In particular, circMAST1 can serve as a potential biomarker and novel target for CCa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaojian Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caixia Shao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Jia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueyuan Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijia Wen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Jing
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Guofen Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hongye Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wei H, Yang J, Lu R, Huang Y, Huang Z, Huang L, Zeng M, Wei Y, Xu Z, Li W, Pu J. m 6A modification of AC026356.1 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating the IGF2BP1-IL11 axis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19124. [PMID: 37926706 PMCID: PMC10625930 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45449-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common RNA modification in eukaryotic RNAs. Although the important roles of m6A in RNA fate have been revealed, the potential contribution of m6A to RNA function in various diseases, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is still unclear. In this study, we identified a novel m6A-modified RNA AC026356.1. We found that AC026356.1 was increased in HCC tissues and cell lines. High expression of AC026356.1 was correlated with poor survival of HCC patients. m6A modification level of AC026356.1 was also increased in HCC and more significantly correlated with poor survival of HCC patients. Functional assays showed that m6A-modified AC026356.1 promoted HCC cellular proliferation, migration, and liver metastasis. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that AC026356.1 activated IL11/STAT3 signaling. Mechanistic investigation showed that m6A-modified AC026356.1 bound to IGF2BP1. The interaction between m6A-modified AC026356.1 and IGF2BP1 promoted the binding of IL11 mRNA to IGF2BP1, leading to increased IL11 mRNA stability and IL11 secretion. Functional rescue assays showed that depletion of IL11 reversed the oncogenic roles of AC026356.1. These findings revealed the potential influences of m6A modification on RNA biological functions and suggested that targeting m6A modification may be a novel strategy for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huamei Wei
- Clinical Pathological Diagnosis and Research Centre, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jinhun Yang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Rongzhou Lu
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zheng Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Lizheng Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Min Zeng
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yunyu Wei
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zuoming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Wenchuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, No. 18 Zhongshan Two Road, Baise, 533000, China.
- Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chen X, Lu T, Ding M, Cai Y, Yu Z, Zhou X, Wang X. Targeting YTHDF2 inhibits tumorigenesis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma through ACER2-mediated ceramide catabolism. J Adv Res 2023:S2090-1232(23)00314-4. [PMID: 37865189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epigenetic alterations play crucial roles in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Disturbances in lipid metabolism contribute to tumor progression. However, studies in epigenetics, especially its critical regulator YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein 2 (YTHDF2), on lipid metabolism regulation in DLBCL are unidentified. OBJECTIVES Elucidate the prognostic value and biological functions of YTHDF2 in DLBCL and illuminate the underlying epigenetic regulation mechanism of lipid metabolism by YTHDF2 in DLBCL development. METHODS The expression and clinical value of YTHDF2 in DLBCL were performed in public databases and clinical specimens. The biological functions of YTHDF2 in DLBCL were determined in vivo and in vitro through overexpression and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of YTHDF2. RNA sequencing, lipidomics, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, RNA immunoprecipitation-qPCR, luciferase activity assay, and RNA stability experiments were used to explore the potential mechanism by which YTHDF2 contributed to DLBCL progression. RESULTS YTHDF2 was highly expressed in DLBCL, and related to poor prognosis. YTHDF2 overexpression exerted a tumor-promoting effect in DLBCL, and knockdown of YTHDF2 restricted DLBCL cell proliferation, arrested cell cycle in the G2/M phase, facilitated apoptosis, and enhanced drug sensitivity to ibrutinib and venetoclax. In addition, YTHDF2 knockout drastically suppressed tumor growth in xenograft DLBCL models. Furthermore, a regulatory role of YTHDF2 in ceramide metabolism was identified in DLBCL cells. Exogenous ceramide effectively inhibited the malignant phenotype of DLBCL cells in vitro. The binding of YTHDF2 to m6A sites on alkaline ceramidase 2 (ACER2) mRNA promoted its stability and expression. Enhanced ACER2 expression hydrolyzed ceramides, disrupting the balance between ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), activating the ERK and PI3K/AKT pathways, and leading to DLBCL tumorigenesis. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that YTHDF2 contributed to the progression of DLBCL by regulating ACER2-mediated ceramide metabolism in an m6A-dependent manner, providing novel insights into targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Chen
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Tiange Lu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Mengfei Ding
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Yiqing Cai
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Zhuoya Yu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Xiangxiang Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China; National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 251006, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China; Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China; Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China; National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 251006, China.
| |
Collapse
|