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Quenneville J, Feghaly A, Tual M, Thomas K, Major F, Gagnon E. Long-term severe hypoxia adaptation induces non-canonical EMT and a novel Wilms Tumor 1 (WT1) isoform. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:1237-1250. [PMID: 38977895 PMCID: PMC11327107 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00795-3] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The majority of cancer deaths are caused by solid tumors, where the four most prevalent cancers (breast, lung, colorectal and prostate) account for more than 60% of all cases (1). Tumor cell heterogeneity driven by variable cancer microenvironments, such as hypoxia, is a key determinant of therapeutic outcome. We developed a novel culture protocol, termed the Long-Term Hypoxia (LTHY) time course, to recapitulate the gradual development of severe hypoxia seen in vivo to mimic conditions observed in primary tumors. Cells subjected to LTHY underwent a non-canonical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) based on miRNA and mRNA signatures as well as displayed EMT-like morphological changes. Concomitant to this, we report production of a novel truncated isoform of WT1 transcription factor (tWt1), a non-canonical EMT driver, with expression driven by a yet undescribed intronic promoter through hypoxia-responsive elements (HREs). We further demonstrated that tWt1 initiates translation from an intron-derived start codon, retains proper subcellular localization and DNA binding. A similar tWt1 is also expressed in LTHY-cultured human cancer cell lines as well as primary cancers and predicts long-term patient survival. Our study not only demonstrates the importance of culture conditions that better mimic those observed in primary cancers, especially with regards to hypoxia, but also identifies a novel isoform of WT1 which correlates with poor long-term survival in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Quenneville
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Albert Feghaly
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Margaux Tual
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kiersten Thomas
- Department of Integrative Oncology, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - François Major
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Computer Science and Operations Research, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Etienne Gagnon
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Wei QY, Jin F, Wang ZY, Li BJ, Cao WB, Sun ZY, Mo SJ. MicroRNAs: A novel signature in the metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:1497-1523. [PMID: 38617454 PMCID: PMC11008420 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i11.1497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a malignant epithelial tumor, characterized by squamous cell differentiation, it is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The increased mortality rate of ESCC patients is predominantly due to the advanced stage of the disease when discovered, coupled with higher risk of metastasis, which is an exceedingly malignant characteristic of cancer, frequently leading to a high mortality rate. Unfortunately, there is currently no specific and effective marker to predict and treat metastasis in ESCC. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules, approximately 22 nucleotides in length. miRNAs are vital in modulating gene expression and serve pivotal regulatory roles in the occurrence, progression, and prognosis of cancer. Here, we have examined the literature to highlight the intimate correlations between miRNAs and ESCC metastasis, and show that ESCC metastasis is predominantly regulated or regulated by genetic and epigenetic factors. This review proposes a potential role for miRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for metastasis in ESCC metastasis, with the ultimate aim of reducing the mortality rate among patients with ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Ying Wei
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Feng Jin
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhong-Yu Wang
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan Province, China
| | - Bing-Jie Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Wen-Bo Cao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhi-Yan Sun
- Division of Special Service, Department of Basic Oncology, School of Basic Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Sai-Jun Mo
- Department of Basic Science of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
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Santos JMO, Tavares V, Gil da Costa RM, Medeiros R. MiR-150 and miR-155 expression predicts survival of cervical cancer patients: a translational approach to novel prognostic biomarkers. Biomarkers 2023; 28:617-627. [PMID: 37942654 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2023.2269320] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is the aetiological agent of cervical cancer, which remains the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. K14-HPV16 transgenic mice are a model for HPV-induced cancers, which undergo multistep squamous carcinogenesis at the skin, that is histologically and molecularly similar to carcinogenesis of the human cervix. Previous screens of differentially regulated microRNAs (miRs) using K14-HPV16 mice showed a role for miR-21, miR-155, miR-150, miR-146a, miR-125b and miR-223 during carcinogenesis. METHODS We now aim to translate these observations into the clinical setting, using data provided by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to explore whether those microRNAs can influence the survival of cervical cancer patients. RESULTS Results showed that low miR-150, miR-155 and miR-146a expression levels in primary tumours were associated with poor overall survival. However, only miR-150 and miR-155 were found to be independent predictors, increasing the risk of death. When patients were stratified by clinical stage, low miR-150, miR-155, miR-146a and miR-125b were associated with poor survival for clinical stages I and II. Only low miR-150 expression increased the death risk. CONCLUSION We conclude that miR-150 and miR-155 may be potentially applied as prognostic biomarkers in cervical cancer patients. However, further investigation is required to determine their applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana M O Santos
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Valéria Tavares
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS) of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui M Gil da Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Postgraduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Department of Morphology, Federal, University of Maranhão (UFMA), and UFMA University Hospital (HUUFMA), São Luís, Brazil
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Inov4Agro, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, PortugalPorto
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS) of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Virology Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Porto, Portugal
- Biomedical Research Center (CEBIMED), Faculty of Health Sciences of the Fernando Pessoa University, Porto, Portugal
- Research Department of the Portuguese League Against Cancer, Regional Nucleus of the North (Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro-Núcleo Regional do Norte), Porto, Portugal
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Szczepanek J, Tretyn A. MicroRNA-Mediated Regulation of Histone-Modifying Enzymes in Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1590. [PMID: 38002272 PMCID: PMC10669115 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111590] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, significant advances in molecular research have provided a deeper understanding of the intricate regulatory mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. MicroRNAs, short non-coding RNA sequences, exert substantial influence on gene expression by repressing translation or inducing mRNA degradation. In the context of cancer, miRNA dysregulation is prevalent and closely associated with various stages of carcinogenesis, including initiation, progression, and metastasis. One crucial aspect of the cancer phenotype is the activity of histone-modifying enzymes that govern chromatin accessibility for transcription factors, thus impacting gene expression. Recent studies have revealed that miRNAs play a significant role in modulating these histone-modifying enzymes, leading to significant implications for genes related to proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in cancer cells. This article provides an overview of current research on the mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate the activity of histone-modifying enzymes in the context of cancer. Both direct and indirect mechanisms through which miRNAs influence enzyme expression are discussed. Additionally, potential therapeutic implications arising from miRNA manipulation to selectively impact histone-modifying enzyme activity are presented. The insights from this analysis hold significant therapeutic promise, suggesting the utility of miRNAs as tools for the precise regulation of chromatin-related processes and gene expression. A contemporary focus on molecular regulatory mechanisms opens therapeutic pathways that can effectively influence the control of tumor cell growth and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szczepanek
- Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, ul. Wilenska 4, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Andrzej Tretyn
- Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, ul. Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
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Nagai M, Shityakov S, Smetak M, Hunkler HJ, Bär C, Schlegel N, Thum T, Förster CY. Blood Biomarkers in Takotsubo Syndrome Point to an Emerging Role for Inflammaging in Endothelial Pathophysiology. Biomolecules 2023; 13:995. [PMID: 37371575 DOI: 10.3390/biom13060995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), an acute cardiac condition characterized by transient wall motion abnormalities mostly of the left ventricle, results in difficulties in diagnosing patients. We set out to present a detailed blood analysis of TTS patients analyzing novel markers to understand the development of TTS. Significant differences in proinflammatory cytokine expression patterns and sex steroid and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression levels were observed in the TTS patient collected. Remarkably, the measured catecholamine serum concentrations determined from TTS patient blood could be shown to be two orders of magnitude lower than the levels determined from experimentally induced TTS in laboratory animals. Consequently, the exposure of endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes in vitro to such catecholamine concentrations did not damage the cellular integrity or function of either endothelial cells forming the blood-brain barrier, endothelial cells derived from myocardium, or cardiomyocytes in vitro. Computational analysis was able to link the identified blood markers, specifically, the proinflammatory cytokines and glucocorticoid receptor GR to microRNA (miR) relevant in the ontogeny of TTS (miR-15) and inflammation (miR-21, miR-146a), respectively. Amongst the well-described risk factors of TTS (older age, female sex), inflammaging-related pathways were identified to add to these relevant risk factors or prediagnostic markers of TTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, 2-1-1, Kabeminami, Aaskita-ku, Hiroshima City Asa, Hiroshima 731-0293, Japan
| | - Sergey Shityakov
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, Laboratory of Chemoinformatics, ITMO University, Lomonosova Str. 9, 191002 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Manuel Smetak
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hannah Jill Hunkler
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Christian Bär
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- REBIRTH-Centre for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Nicolas Schlegel
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Thum
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- REBIRTH-Centre for Translational Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Carola Yvette Förster
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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Yang Y, Zhang H, Liu Z, Ma N, Li C, Wang Y, Li Z. Use of exosome transcriptome-based analysis to identify novel biomarkers in patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2023; 11:182. [PMID: 36923096 PMCID: PMC10009568 DOI: 10.21037/atm-23-452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Background The prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is improved by neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT), especially for patients with pathologic complete response (pCR). Despite the efforts to predict treatment response using multimodality, no molecule has proven to be a strong biomarker. This study aimed to profile the expression of exosome transcriptome that could predict pCR in ESCC before and after nCRT. Methods We collected paired blood samples of 15 patients with ESCC who received nCRT and radical surgery. They were divided into 3 groups: (A) residual tumor in the first clinical response evaluation (CRE-1), (B) no residual tumor in CRE-1 but with residual tumor in CRE-2 which was performed after 5-6 weeks, and (C) no residual tumor in CRE-1 or CRE-2. For each patient, the blood sample was collected before nCRT (time point 0); and then 6 weeks after nCRT, the clinical response was evaluated, and another blood sample was collected (time point 1). Results Using the intersection of different sets, we found 23 progression-associated messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and 67 remission-associated mRNAs. Between remission-associated mRNAs and the targets of progression-associated (carcinogenic) microRNAs (miRNAs), the intersection was acquired, and 2 miRNA-mRNA networks (IFIT2-miR-3615-IFIT2-miR-484 and BTN3A3-miR-6803-3p) were identified. Among the intersection of progression-associated (carcinogenic) mRNAs and the targets of remission-associated miRNAs, there is a network with miR-132-3p (remission-associated miRNA) located at the core, matched with DICER1, KLHL8, ANKRD12, ASH1L, and IMP4. Conclusions Our findings identified altered plasma exosome RNAs among the different groups and between different time points of nCRT, as well as the corresponding enrichments and regulatory networks, which may serve as potentially predictors of treatment response for patients with ESCC after nCRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhichao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Thoracic Oncology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunguang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Cessna H, Baritaki S, Zaravinos A, Bonavida B. The Role of RKIP in the Regulation of EMT in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194596. [PMID: 36230521 PMCID: PMC9559516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Raf kinase inhibitor protein (RKIP) expression in cancer cells is significantly reduced and promoting cancer cells growth and invasiveness. Overexpresssion of RKIP has been reported to mediate pleiotropic anti-cancer activities including the inhibition of survival signaling pathways, sensitization to cell death by cytotoxic drugs, inhibition of invasion, EMT and metastasis. The molecular mechanism by which RKIP inhibits EMT is not clear. In this review, we have examined how RKIP inhibits the selected EMT gene products (Snail, vimentin, N-cadherin, laminin alpha) and found that it involves signaling cross-talks between RKIP and each of the EMT gene products. These findings were validated by bioinformatic analyses demonstrating in various human cancers a negative correlation between the expression of RKIP and the expression of the EMT gene products. These findings suggest that targeting RKIP induction in cancer cells will result in multiple hits by inhibiting tumor growth, metastasis and reversal of chemo-immuno resistance. Abstract The Raf Kinase Inhibitor Protein (RKIP) is a unique gene product that directly inhibits the Raf/Mek/Erk and NF-kB pathways in cancer cells and resulting in the inhibition of cell proliferation, viability, EMT, and metastasis. Additionally, RKIP is involved in the regulation of cancer cell resistance to both chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The low expression of RKIP expression in many cancer types is responsible, in part, for the pathogenesis of cancer and its multiple properties. The inhibition of EMT and metastasis by RKIP led to its classification as a tumor suppressor. However, the mechanism by which RKIP mediates its inhibitory effects on EMT and metastases was not clear. We have proposed that one mechanism involves the negative regulation by RKIP of the expression of various gene products that mediate the mesenchymal phenotype as well as the positive regulation of gene products that mediate the epithelial phenotype via signaling cross talks between RKIP and each gene product. We examined several EMT mesenchymal gene products such as Snail, vimentin, N-cadherin, laminin and EPCAM and epithelial gene products such as E-cadherin and laminin. We have found that indeed these negative and positive correlations were detected in the signaling cross-talks. In addition, we have also examined bioinformatic data sets on different human cancers and the findings corroborated, in large part, the findings observed in the signaling cross-talks with few exceptions in some cancer types. The overall findings support the underlying mechanism by which the tumor suppressor RKIP regulates the expression of gene products involved in EMT and metastasis. Hence, the development of agent that can selectively induce RKIP expression in cancers with low expressions should result in the activation of the pleiotropic anti-cancer activities of RKIP and resulting in multiple effects including inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, EMT, metastasis and sensitization of resistant tumor cells to respond to both chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Cessna
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stavroula Baritaki
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Division of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Apostolos Zaravinos
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
- Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center (BTCRC), Cancer Genetics, Genomics and Systems Biology Laboratory, Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
| | - Benjamin Bonavida
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence:
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Liu YT, Yu CC, Lu MY, Chao SC, Liao YW, Yu CH, Lee YH. miR-146a participates in the regulation of cancer stemness of oral carcinoma cells. J Dent Sci 2022; 18:503-509. [PMID: 37021226 PMCID: PMC10068381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/purpose Increasing evidence regarded the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) as a leading cause of therapy failure and tumor relapse due to their self-renewal and differentiation abilities. Although ectopic overexpression of micro-RNAs (miRNAs) can modulate the cancer stemness and tumor development in oral cancer, their molecular mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, in the present study, we attempt to uncover the role of miR-146a in the maintenance of oral CSCs. Materials and methods The expression of miR-146a was determined using qRT-PCR analysis. Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymic activity and sphere formation assays were used to evaluate the cancer stemness and self-renewal, respectively. Functional assays, including migration/invasion Transwell and colony formation assay, were used to evaluate the aggressive abilities. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to validate the relationship between miR-146a and Numb. Results In the present study, we reported an increased expression of miR-146a in the oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) specimen, primary OSCC cells sphere, and high ALDH1 activity population within OSCC cells. Inhibition of miR-146a significantly suppressed the ALDH1 activity, self-renewal capacity, and aggressive abilities, including migration, invasion, and colony formation. Moreover, we demonstrated that Numb is a functional target of miR-146a in OSCC-CSCs. Notably, silencing of Numb could retrieve the self-renewal and migration impaired by knockdown of miR-146a. Conclusion Our results indicate that miR-146a can regulate the cancer stemness in OSCC by modulating Numb, and hence miR-146a/Numb axis can serve as a potential target for oral cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Tze Liu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
- Department of Holistic Wellness, MingDao University, Changhua, Taiwan
- Oral Cancer Research Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chia Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yi Lu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chi Chao
- Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Lo-Hsu Medical Foundation, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, Yilan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Liao
- Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Hang Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Corresponding author. School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, No. 110, Sec. 1, Jianguo N. Rd., Taichung 40201, Taiwan. Fax: 886-4-24759065.
| | - Yu-Hsien Lee
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Corresponding author. School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, No. 110, Sec. 1, Jianguo N. Rd., Taichung 40201, Taiwan. Fax: 886-4-24759065.
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Thomaidou AC, Batsaki P, Adamaki M, Goulielmaki M, Baxevanis CN, Zoumpourlis V, Fortis SP. Promising Biomarkers in Head and Neck Cancer: The Most Clinically Important miRNAs. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158257. [PMID: 35897831 PMCID: PMC9367895 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) comprise a heterogeneous group of tumors that extend from the oral cavity to the upper gastrointestinal tract. The principal etiologic factors for oral tumors include tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption, while human papillomavirus (HPV) infections have been accused of a high incidence of pharyngeal tumors. Accordingly, HPV detection has been extensively used to categorize carcinomas of the head and neck. The diverse nature of HNC highlights the necessity for novel, sensitive, and precise biomarkers for the prompt diagnosis of the disease, its successful monitoring, and the timely prognosis of patient clinical outcomes. In this context, the identification of certain microRNAs (miRNAs) and/or the detection of alterations in their expression patterns, in a variety of somatic fluids and tissues, could serve as valuable biomarkers for precision oncology. In the present review, we summarize some of the most frequently studied miRNAs (including miR-21, -375, -99, -34a, -200, -31, -125a/b, -196a/b, -9, -181a, -155, -146a, -23a, -16, -29, and let-7), their role as biomarkers, and their implication in HNC pathogenesis. Moreover, we designate the potential of given miRNAs and miRNA signatures as novel diagnostic and prognostic tools for successful patient stratification. Finally, we discuss the currently ongoing clinical trials that aim to identify the diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic utility of miRNAs in HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsinoe C. Thomaidou
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece; (A.C.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Panagiota Batsaki
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Center, Saint Savas Cancer Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (M.G.); (C.N.B.)
| | - Maria Adamaki
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece; (A.C.T.); (M.A.)
| | - Maria Goulielmaki
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Center, Saint Savas Cancer Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (M.G.); (C.N.B.)
| | - Constantin N. Baxevanis
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Center, Saint Savas Cancer Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (M.G.); (C.N.B.)
| | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece; (A.C.T.); (M.A.)
- Correspondence: (V.Z.); (S.P.F.); Tel.: +30-210-727-3730 (V.Z.); +30-210-640-9462 (S.P.F.)
| | - Sotirios P. Fortis
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Center, Saint Savas Cancer Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (M.G.); (C.N.B.)
- Correspondence: (V.Z.); (S.P.F.); Tel.: +30-210-727-3730 (V.Z.); +30-210-640-9462 (S.P.F.)
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10
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Vimentin: Regulation and pathogenesis. Biochimie 2022; 197:96-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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11
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Usman S, Waseem NH, Nguyen TKN, Mohsin S, Jamal A, Teh MT, Waseem A. Vimentin Is at the Heart of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Mediated Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4985. [PMID: 34638469 PMCID: PMC8507690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a reversible plethora of molecular events where epithelial cells gain the phenotype of mesenchymal cells to invade the surrounding tissues. EMT is a physiological event during embryogenesis (type I) but also happens during fibrosis (type II) and cancer metastasis (type III). It is a multifaceted phenomenon governed by the activation of genes associated with cell migration, extracellular matrix degradation, DNA repair, and angiogenesis. The cancer cells employ EMT to acquire the ability to migrate, resist therapeutic agents and escape immunity. One of the key biomarkers of EMT is vimentin, a type III intermediate filament that is normally expressed in mesenchymal cells but is upregulated during cancer metastasis. This review highlights the pivotal role of vimentin in the key events during EMT and explains its role as a downstream as well as an upstream regulator in this highly complex process. This review also highlights the areas that require further research in exploring the role of vimentin in EMT. As a cytoskeletal protein, vimentin filaments support mechanical integrity of the migratory machinery, generation of directional force, focal adhesion modulation and extracellular attachment. As a viscoelastic scaffold, it gives stress-bearing ability and flexible support to the cell and its organelles. However, during EMT it modulates genes for EMT inducers such as Snail, Slug, Twist and ZEB1/2, as well as the key epigenetic factors. In addition, it suppresses cellular differentiation and upregulates their pluripotent potential by inducing genes associated with self-renewability, thus increasing the stemness of cancer stem cells, facilitating the tumour spread and making them more resistant to treatments. Several missense and frameshift mutations reported in vimentin in human cancers may also contribute towards the metastatic spread. Therefore, we propose that vimentin should be a therapeutic target using molecular technologies that will curb cancer growth and spread with reduced mortality and morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Usman
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Turner Str., London E1 2AT, UK; (S.U.); (T.K.N.N.); (A.J.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Naushin H. Waseem
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Str., London EC1V 9EL, UK;
| | - Thuan Khanh Ngoc Nguyen
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Turner Str., London E1 2AT, UK; (S.U.); (T.K.N.N.); (A.J.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Sahar Mohsin
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain 17666, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Ahmad Jamal
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Turner Str., London E1 2AT, UK; (S.U.); (T.K.N.N.); (A.J.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Muy-Teck Teh
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Turner Str., London E1 2AT, UK; (S.U.); (T.K.N.N.); (A.J.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Ahmad Waseem
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Turner Str., London E1 2AT, UK; (S.U.); (T.K.N.N.); (A.J.); (M.-T.T.)
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12
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Chen X, Zhang H, Ou S, Chen H. Von Hippel-Lindau gene single nucleotide polymorphism (rs1642742) may be related to the occurrence and metastasis of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27187. [PMID: 34477178 PMCID: PMC8415925 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well-known that microRNAs are able to regulate the expression of target mRNAs through complementary base-pairing to their 3'-untranslated regions (3'UTR) sequences. This study aimed to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms resided in the 3'UTR sequences in patients with chronic hepatitis B viruses (HBV) infection are associated with the development and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Seventeen single nucleotide polymorphisms in the 3'UTR sequence of 10 genes regulated or affected by hepatitis B virus X protein were found by bioinformatics methods. Two hundred fifteen patients with HBV-related HCC and 216 patients with chronic HBV infection were recruited. Through case-control study, only found that the von Hippel-Lindau gene rs1642742 (G>A) may be associated with the occurrence and metastasis of HCC. The ORs of the frequencies of rs1642742 A allele versus G allele were 1.424 (P = .038, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.019-1.989) between HBV-related HCC and chronic HBV infection group and were 2.004 (P = .037, 95%CI = 1.031-3.895) between tumor metastasis and non-metastasis group, respectively. Through multivariate regression analysis, we also found that rs1642742 AA genotype was an independent risk factor for tumor metastasis (odds ratio = 2.227, 95% CI = 1.043-4.752, P = .038) in HBV-related HCC group. Our study suggested that Von Hippel-Lindau rs1642742 contributed to susceptibility to developing HCC and correlated with tumor metastasis.
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13
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Zhou M, Wang Y, Zhang C, Qi M, Yao M, Sun L, Xu X. MicroRNA-195-5p suppresses the proliferation, migration, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of laryngeal cancer cells in vitro by targeting E2F3. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1078. [PMID: 34447471 PMCID: PMC8355640 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) play an important role in the occurrence and development of various types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role and underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-195-5p in laryngeal cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to measure the expression levels of miR-195-5p in laryngeal carcinoma cell lines. The expression levels of miR-195-5p and E2F transcription factor 3 (E2F3) were modified by transfection with miR-195-5p mimics and pcDNA3.1-E2F3. A luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the association between miR-195a-5p and E2F3. Cell Counting Kit-8, cell wound healing and Transwell invasion assays were used to detect the biological functions of laryngeal cancer cells. The expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated genes was evaluated by western blotting and RT-qPCR. The results revealed that the expression of miR-195-5p was decreased in laryngeal cancer cell lines. The overexpression of miR-195-5p inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of laryngeal cancer cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-195-5p could directly target E2F3 and that there was a negative association between them. E2F3 overexpression significantly attenuated the inhibitory effects of the overexpression of miR-195-5p on the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of laryngeal cancer cells. Collectively, the findings of the present study demonstrated that the overexpression of miR-195-5p significantly inhibited the progression of laryngeal cancer cells, and these effects may be mediated via the downregulation of the expression of E2F3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Operating Room, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Changming Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Meihao Qi
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Min Yao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Lizhi Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Xining Xu
- Department of Otolaryngology, The 940th Hospital of The Joint Logistic Support Force of PLA, Lanzhou, Gansu 730050, P.R. China
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14
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Cui D, Cheung ALM. Roles of microRNAs in tumorigenesis and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. World J Clin Oncol 2021; 12:609-622. [PMID: 34513596 PMCID: PMC8394161 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i8.609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the major subtype of esophageal cancer that is prevalent in Eastern Asia. Despite recent advances in therapy, the outcome of ESCC patients is still dismal. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs which can negatively modulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. The involvement and roles of miRNAs have become one of the hot topics of cancer research in recent years. In ESCC, genetic variations within miRNA coding genes were found to have distinct epidemiological significance in different populations. Dysregulated expression of several miRNAs was reported to be associated with therapeutic response. Functionally, miRNAs can act either in an oncogenic or a tumor-suppressive manner during tumorigenesis of ESCC by interrupting signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation, metabolism, cancer stemness, and resistance to chemo- or radiotherapy. Moreover, miRNAs modulate metastasis of ESCC by targeting genes that regulate cytoskeleton dynamics, extracellular matrix remodeling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and tumor microenvironment. Most importantly, mounting evidence suggests that inhibiting oncogenic miRNAs or restoring the loss of tumor-suppressive miRNAs has therapeutic potential in the treatment of ESCC. Here, we review and discuss recent studies on the significance, biological functions, and therapeutic potential of miRNAs in tumorigenesis and metastasis of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Cui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Annie LM Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
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15
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The Fibronectin Expression Determines the Distinct Progressions of Malignant Gliomas via Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073782. [PMID: 33917452 PMCID: PMC8038731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing incidence of malignant gliomas, particularly glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a simple and reliable GBM diagnosis is needed to screen early the death-threaten patients. This study aimed to identify a protein that can be used to discriminate GBM from low-grade astrocytoma and elucidate further that it has a functional role during malignant glioma progressions. To identify proteins that display low or no expression in low-grade astrocytoma but elevated levels in GBM, glycoprotein fibronectin (FN) was particularly examined according to the mining of the Human Protein Atlas. Web-based open megadata minings revealed that FN was mainly mutated in the cBio Cancer Genomic Portal but dominantly overexpressed in the ONCOMINE (a cancer microarray database and integrated data-mining platform) in distinct tumor types. Furthermore, numerous different cancer patients with high FN indeed exhibited a poor prognosis in the PrognoScan mining, indicating that FN involves in tumor malignancy. To investigate further the significance of FN expression in glioma progression, tumor specimens from five malignant gliomas with recurrences that received at least two surgeries were enrolled and examined. The immunohistochemical staining showed that FN expression indeed determined the distinct progressions of malignant gliomas. Furthermore, the expression of vimentin (VIM), a mesenchymal protein that is strongly expressed in malignant cancers, was similar to the FN pattern. Moreover, the level of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inducer transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) was almost recapitulated with the FN expression. Together, this study identifies a protein FN that can be used to diagnose GBM from low-grade astrocytoma; moreover, its expression functionally determines the malignant glioma progressions via TGF-β-induced EMT pathway.
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