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Hsu CY, Abdulrahim MN, Mustafa MA, Omar TM, Balto F, Pineda I, Khudair TT, Ubaid M, Ali MS. The multifaceted role of PCSK9 in cancer pathogenesis, tumor immunity, and immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:202. [PMID: 39008137 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02435-0] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a well-known regulator of cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular diseases, has recently garnered attention for its emerging involvement in cancer biology. The multifunctional nature of PCSK9 extends beyond lipid regulation and encompasses a wide range of cellular processes that can influence cancer progression. Studies have revealed that PCSK9 can modulate signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and Wnt/β-catenin, thereby influencing cellular proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis. Additionally, the interplay between PCSK9 and cholesterol homeostasis may impact membrane dynamics and cellular migration, further influencing tumor aggressiveness. The central role of the immune system in monitoring and controlling cancer is increasingly recognized. Recent research has demonstrated the ability of PCSK9 to modulate immune responses through interactions with immune cells and components of the tumor microenvironment. This includes effects on dendritic cell maturation, T cell activation, and cytokine production, suggesting a role in shaping antitumor immune responses. Moreover, the potential influence of PCSK9 on immune checkpoints such as PD1/PD-L1 lends an additional layer of complexity to its immunomodulatory functions. The growing interest in cancer immunotherapy has prompted exploration into the potential of targeting PCSK9 for therapeutic benefits. Preclinical studies have demonstrated synergistic effects between PCSK9 inhibitors and established immunotherapies, offering a novel avenue for combination treatments. The strategic manipulation of PCSK9 to enhance tumor immunity and improve therapeutic outcomes presents an exciting area for further investigations. Understanding the mechanisms by which PCSK9 influences cancer biology and immunity holds promise for the development of novel immunotherapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the intricate connections between PCSK9, cancer pathogenesis, tumor immunity, and the potential implications for immunotherapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chou-Yi Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan City, 71710, Taiwan.
- Thunderbird School of Global Management, Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, USA.
| | | | - Mohammed Ahmed Mustafa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Imam Jaafar AL-Sadiq University, Baghdad, Iraq
- Department of Pathological Analyzes, College of Applied Sciences, University of Samarra, Samarra, Iraq
| | - Thabit Moath Omar
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technics, Al-Noor University College, Nineveh, Iraq
| | - Franklin Balto
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560069, India
- Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303012, India
| | - Indira Pineda
- School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Uttar Pradesh, 247341, India
- Department of Health & Allied Sciences, Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, 831001, India
| | - Teeba Thamer Khudair
- College of Nursing, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Ubaid
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
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Tang Y, Cui G, Liu H, Han Y, Cai C, Feng Z, Shen H, Zeng S. Converting "cold" to "hot": epigenetics strategies to improve immune therapy effect by regulating tumor-associated immune suppressive cells. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2024; 44:601-636. [PMID: 38715348 PMCID: PMC11194457 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12546] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant developments in cancer treatment have been made since the advent of immune therapies. However, there are still some patients with malignant tumors who do not benefit from immunotherapy. Tumors without immunogenicity are called "cold" tumors which are unresponsive to immunotherapy, and the opposite are "hot" tumors. Immune suppressive cells (ISCs) refer to cells which can inhibit the immune response such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T (Treg) cells and so on. The more ISCs infiltrated, the weaker the immunogenicity of the tumor, showing the characteristics of "cold" tumor. The dysfunction of ISCs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) may play essential roles in insensitive therapeutic reaction. Previous studies have found that epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in the regulation of ISCs. Regulating ISCs may be a new approach to transforming "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors. Here, we focused on the function of ISCs in the TME and discussed how epigenetics is involved in regulating ISCs. In addition, we summarized the mechanisms by which the epigenetic drugs convert immunotherapy-insensitive tumors into immunotherapy-sensitive tumors which would be an innovative tendency for future immunotherapy in "cold" tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijia Tang
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Guangzu Cui
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Haicong Liu
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Changjing Cai
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Ziyang Feng
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
- National Clinical Resaerch Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of OncologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanP. R. China
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Quaranta V, Ballarò C, Giannelli G. Macrophages Orchestrate the Liver Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1772. [PMID: 38730724 PMCID: PMC11083142 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091772] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the most common types, and despite numerous advances, therapeutic options still remain poor for these cancer patients. Tumor development and progression strictly depend on a supportive tumor microenvironment (TME). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant immune cells population within a tumorigenic liver; they sustain cancer cells' growth and invasiveness, and their presence is correlated with a poor prognosis. Furthermore, TAM cross-talk with cells and components of the TME promotes immunosuppression, a desmoplastic response, and angiogenesis. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in understanding TAM heterogeneity and function, with a particular focus on TAM modulation of the TME. We also discuss the potential of targeting macrophage subpopulations and how this is now being exploited in current clinical trials for the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Quaranta
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, IRCCS “S. de Bellis” Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy (G.G.)
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Valdez CN, Sánchez-Zuno GA, Bucala R, Tran TT. Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and D-Dopachrome Tautomerase (DDT): Pathways to Tumorigenesis and Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4849. [PMID: 38732068 PMCID: PMC11084905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094849] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Discovered as inflammatory cytokines, MIF and DDT exhibit widespread expression and have emerged as critical mediators in the response to infection, inflammation, and more recently, in cancer. In this comprehensive review, we provide details on their structures, binding partners, regulatory mechanisms, and roles in cancer. We also elaborate on their significant impact in driving tumorigenesis across various cancer types, supported by extensive in vitro, in vivo, bioinformatic, and clinical studies. To date, only a limited number of clinical trials have explored MIF as a therapeutic target in cancer patients, and DDT has not been evaluated. The ongoing pursuit of optimal strategies for targeting MIF and DDT highlights their potential as promising antitumor candidates. Dual inhibition of MIF and DDT may allow for the most effective suppression of canonical and non-canonical signaling pathways, warranting further investigations and clinical exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Naomi Valdez
- School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (C.N.V.); (R.B.)
| | - Gabriela Athziri Sánchez-Zuno
- Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Richard Bucala
- School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (C.N.V.); (R.B.)
- Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Thuy T. Tran
- School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (C.N.V.); (R.B.)
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Xu J, Zhao Y, Chen Z, Wei L. Clinical Application of Different Liquid Biopsy Components in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Pers Med 2024; 14:420. [PMID: 38673047 PMCID: PMC11051574 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040420] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, usually occurring in the background of chronic liver disease. HCC lethality rate is in the third highest place in the world. Patients with HCC have concealed early symptoms and possess a high-level of heterogeneity. Once diagnosed, most of the tumors are in advanced stages and have a poor prognosis. The sensitivity and specificity of existing detection modalities and protocols are suboptimal. HCC calls for more sophisticated and individualized therapeutic regimens. Liquid biopsy is non-invasive, repeatable, unaffected by location, and can be monitored dynamically. It has emerged as a useable aid in achieving precision malignant tumor treatment. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating nucleic acids, exosomes and tumor-educated platelets are the commonest components of a liquid biopsy. It possesses the theoretical ability to conquer the high heterogeneity and the difficulty of early detection for HCC patients. In this review, we summarize the common enrichment techniques and the clinical applications in HCC for different liquid biopsy components. Tumor recurrence after HCC-related liver transplantation is more insidious and difficult to treat. The clinical use of liquid biopsy in HCC-related liver transplantation is also summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lai Wei
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education; NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430030, China; (J.X.); (Y.Z.); (Z.C.)
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Xie DK, Yao J, Li PH, Zhu YW, Chen JN, Cao XL, Cheng SL, Chen YM, Huang YF, Wang L, Wang ZH, Qiao R, Ge JM, Yue H, Wei L, Liu ZY, Han H, Qin HY, Zhao JL. Phenotypic comparison and the potential antitumor function of immortalized bone marrow-derived macrophages (iBMDMs). Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379853. [PMID: 38650937 PMCID: PMC11033405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379853] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Macrophages are an important component of innate immunity and involved in the immune regulation of multiple diseases. The functional diversity and plasticity make macrophages to exhibit different polarization phenotypes after different stimuli. During tumor progression, the M2-like polarized tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor progression by assisting immune escape, facilitating tumor cell metastasis, and switching tumor angiogenesis. Our previous studies demonstrated that functional remodeling of TAMs through engineered-modifying or gene-editing provides the potential immunotherapy for tumor. However, lack of proliferation capacity and maintained immune memory of infused macrophages restricts the application of macrophage-based therapeutic strategies in the repressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Although J2 retrovirus infection enabled immortalization of bone marrow-derived macrophages (iBMDMs) and facilitated the mechanisms exploration and application, little is known about the phenotypic and functional differences among multi kinds of macrophages. Methods HE staining was used to detect the biosafety of iBMDMs, and real-time quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and ELISA were used to detect the polarization response and expression of chemokines in iBMDMs. Flow cytometry, scratch assay, real-time quantitative PCR, and crystal violet staining were used to analyze its phagocytic function, as well as its impact on tumor cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. Not only that, the inhibitory effect of iBMDMs on tumor growth was detected through subcutaneous tumor loading, while the tumor tissue was paraffin sectioned and flow cytometry was used to detect its impact on the tumor microenvironment. Results In this study, we demonstrated iBMDMs exhibited the features of rapid proliferation and long-term survival. We also compared iBMDMs with RAW264.7 cell line and mouse primary BMDMs with in vitro and in vivo experiments, indicating that the iBMDMs could undergo the same polarization response as normal macrophages with no obvious cellular morphology changes after polarization. What's more, iBMDMs owned stronger phagocytosis and pro-apoptosis functions on tumor cells. In addition, M1-polarized iBMDMs could maintain the anti-tumor phenotypes and domesticated the recruited macrophages of receptor mice, which further improved the TIME and repressed tumor growth. Discussion iBMDMs can serve as a good object for the function and mechanism study of macrophages and the optional source of macrophage immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-kun Xie
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jin Yao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Peng-hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yan-wen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jia-nuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiu-li Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shi-lin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ya-miao Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yi-fei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Liang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zan-han Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Rong Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jia-mei Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Huan Yue
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhong-yuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hua Han
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong-yan Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jun-long Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Medical Genetics and Development Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
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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.
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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.
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Huang Q, Zhong X, Li J, Hu R, Yi J, Sun J, Xu Y, Zhou X. Exosomal ncRNAs: Multifunctional contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116409. [PMID: 38460375 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116409] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant liver cancer characterized by aggressive progression, unfavorable prognosis, and an increasing global health burden. Therapies that precisely target immunological checkpoints and immune cells have gained significant attention as possible therapeutics in recent years. In truth, the efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily contingent upon the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have indicated that exosomes serve as a sophisticated means of communication among biomolecules, executing an essential part in the TME of immune suppression. Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can induce the activation of tumor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells that suppress the immune system, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), CD+8 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and regulatory B cells (Bregs). This cell-cell crosstalk triggered by exosomal ncRNAs promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis, angiogenesis, malignant phenotype transformation, and drug resistance. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend how exosomal ncRNAs regulate tumor cells or immune cells within the TME to devise more comprehensive and productive immunotherapy programs. This study discusses the features of exosomal ncRNAs in HCC and how the activation of the exosomes redefines the tumor's immunosuppressive microenvironment, hence facilitating the advancement of HCC. Furthermore, we also explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as a viable biological target or natural vehicle for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Rui Hu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jinyu Yi
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jialing Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Youhua Xu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China.
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China.
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El Baba R, Herbein G. EZH2-Myc Hallmark in Oncovirus/Cytomegalovirus Infections and Cytomegalovirus' Resemblance to Oncoviruses. Cells 2024; 13:541. [PMID: 38534385 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060541] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 15-20% of global cancer cases are attributed to virus infections. Oncoviruses employ various molecular strategies to enhance replication and persistence. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), acting as an initiator or promoter, enables immune evasion, supporting tumor growth. HCMV activates pro-oncogenic pathways within infected cells and direct cellular transformation. Thus, HCMV demonstrates characteristics reminiscent of oncoviruses. Cumulative evidence emphasizes the crucial roles of EZH2 and Myc in oncogenesis and stemness. EZH2 and Myc, pivotal regulators of cellular processes, gain significance in the context of oncoviruses and HCMV infections. This axis becomes a central focus for comprehending the mechanisms driving virus-induced oncogenesis. Elevated EZH2 expression is evident in various cancers, making it a prospective target for cancer therapy. On the other hand, Myc, deregulated in over 50% of human cancers, serves as a potent transcription factor governing cellular processes and contributing to tumorigenesis; Myc activates EZH2 expression and induces global gene expression. The Myc/EZH2 axis plays a critical role in promoting tumor growth in oncoviruses. Considering that HCMV has been shown to manipulate the Myc/EZH2 axis, there is emerging evidence suggesting that HCMV could be regarded as a potential oncovirus due to its ability to exploit this critical pathway implicated in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranim El Baba
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB EA4266, University of Franche-Comté UFC, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Georges Herbein
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB EA4266, University of Franche-Comté UFC, 25000 Besançon, France
- Department of Virology, CHU Besançon, 25030 Besançon, France
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Yao M, Mao X, Zhang Z, Cui F, Shao S, Mao B. Communication molecules (ncRNAs) mediate tumor-associated macrophage polarization and tumor progression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1289538. [PMID: 38523627 PMCID: PMC10957787 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1289538] [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] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs play important roles in tumor cells and macrophages and participate in their communication as messengers. Non-coding RNAs have an impact in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, and they also regulate the differentiation and regulation of immune cells. In macrophages, they stimulate the polarization of macrophages into M1 or M2 by regulating proteins related to signaling pathways; in tumor cells, non-coding RNAs can enter macrophages through exosomes and affect the latter polarization. The polarization of macrophages further regulates the biological functions of cancer cells. The direction of macrophage polarization determines tumor progression, angiogenesis and drug resistance. This often creates a feedback loop. Non-coding RNAs act as bridges between tumor cells and macrophages to regulate the balance of the tumor microenvironment. We reviewed the signaling pathways related to macrophage polarization and the regulatory mechanisms of non-coding RNA in tumor-associated macrophages M1 and M2, and discussed the potential applications and prospects of exosome engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yao
- The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, WuXi, China
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xuhua Mao
- The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, WuXi, China
| | - Zherui Zhang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Feilun Cui
- The Affiliated Taizhou Second People`s Hospital of Yangzhou University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shihe Shao
- The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, WuXi, China
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Boneng Mao
- The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, WuXi, China
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11
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Chen J, Tang S, Zheng Q, Li J, Jiang H, Lu H, Liao G, Li K, Liang Y. The competitive mechanism of EZH1 and EZH2 in promoting oral squamous cell carcinoma. Exp Cell Res 2024; 436:113957. [PMID: 38309675 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.113957] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 1 (EZH1) and Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) are the key components of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2); however, the roles of these proteins in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we aimed to determine the respective roles of these proteins in OSCC by investigating the expression levels of EZH1 and EZH2 in OSCC tissues (N = 63) by immunohistochemistry. In addition, we used lentiviruses to construct stable OSCC cell lines that overexpressed EZH1 and EZH2. Then, we investigated these cell lines for cell viability, colony formation capacity, stemness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Binding competition between EZH1 and EZH2 with PRC2 was further evaluated using Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). Compared with normal tissues, the expression levels of EZH2 in OSCC tissues was up-regulated, while the expression of EZH1 was down-regulated. EZH2 enhanced cell viability, colony formation capacity, stemness, and EMT, while EZH1 did not. Furthermore, analysis indicated that EZH1 and EZH2 bound competitively to PRC2 and influenced the methylation status of H3K27. In conclusion, our findings verified that EZH1 and EZH2 play opposing roles in OSCC and that EZH1 and EZH2 compete as the key component of PRC2, thus affecting the characteristics of OSCC via the methylation of H3K27.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghai Chen
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shanshan Tang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qiuhan Zheng
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jingyuan Li
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Huanzi Lu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Guiqing Liao
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Kan Li
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yujie Liang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Ling-yuan West Street, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhong-Shan Er Road 74, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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12
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Sartorius K, Sartorius B, Winkler C, Chuturgoon A, Shen TW, Zhao Y, An P. Serum microRNA Profiles and Pathways in Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A South African Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:975. [PMID: 38256049 PMCID: PMC10815595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020975] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase sharply by 2040 against a backdrop of limited diagnostic and therapeutic options. Two large South African-based case control studies have developed a serum-based miRNome for Hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC), as well as identifying their gene targets and pathways. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, differential analysis and filters including a unique molecular index count (UMI) ≥ 10 and log fold change (LFC) range > 2: <-0.5 (p < 0.05), 91 dysregulated miRNAs were characterized including 30 that were upregulated and 61 were downregulated. KEGG analysis, a literature review and other bioinformatic tools identified the targeted genes and HBV-HCC pathways of the top 10 most dysregulated miRNAs. The results, which are based on differentiating miRNA expression of cases versus controls, also develop a serum-based miRNA diagnostic panel that indicates 95.9% sensitivity, 91.0% specificity and a Youden Index of 0.869. In conclusion, the results develop a comprehensive African HBV-HCC miRNome that potentially can contribute to RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Sartorius
- Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- Africa Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Benn Sartorius
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Cheryl Winkler
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Anil Chuturgoon
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Molecular Sciences, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Tsai-Wei Shen
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- CCR-SF Bioinformatics Group, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
| | - Ping An
- Centre for Cancer Research, Basic Research Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick Natifol Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institute of Health, Frederick, MD 21701, USA
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13
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Shi Q, Chu Q, Zeng Y, Yuan X, Wang J, Zhang Y, Xue C, Li L. Non-coding RNA methylation modifications in hepatocellular carcinoma: interactions and potential implications. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:359. [PMID: 38111040 PMCID: PMC10726651 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01357-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation modification plays a crucial role as an epigenetic regulator in the oncogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Numerous studies have investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the methylation of protein-coding RNAs in the progression of HCC. Beyond their impact on mRNA, methylation modifications also influence the biological functions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Here, we present an advanced and comprehensive overview of the interplay between methylation modifications and ncRNAs in HCC, with a specific focus on their potential implications for the tumor immune microenvironment. Moreover, we summarize promising therapeutic targets for HCC based on methylation-related proteins. In the future, a more profound investigation is warranted to elucidate the effects of ncRNA methylation modifications on HCC pathogenesis and devise valuable intervention strategies. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China.
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14
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Obata T, Tsutsumi K, Ueta E, Oda T, Kikuchi T, Ako S, Fujii Y, Yamazaki T, Uchida D, Matsumoto K, Horiguchi S, Kato H, Okada H, Otsuka M. MicroRNA-451a inhibits gemcitabine-refractory biliary tract cancer progression by suppressing the MIF-mediated PI3K/AKT pathway. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 34:102054. [PMID: 38111913 PMCID: PMC10726424 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Gemcitabine is an effective chemotherapeutic agent for biliary tract cancers (BTCs), including gallbladder cancer (GBC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). However, few other effective agents are currently available, particularly for GEM-refractory BTCs. We previously identified microRNA-451a (miR-451a) as a potential therapeutic target in GBC. To elucidate the antineoplastic effects of miR-451a and its underlying mechanisms, we transfected miR-451a into GBC, gemcitabine-resistant GBC (GR-GBC), and gemcitabine-resistant CCA (GR-CCA) cell lines. Furthermore, mimicking in vivo conditions, tumorigenic GBC organoids and three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems were employed to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of miR-451a on BTCs, and its effect on stem cell properties. We found that miR-451a significantly inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and reduced chemoresistant phenotypes, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, in both GBC and GR-GBC. The principal mechanism is probably the negative regulation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT pathway, partially accomplished by directly downregulating macrophage migration inhibitory factor. The Gene Expression Omnibus database revealed that miR-451a was the most significantly downregulated microRNA in CCA tissues. The introduction of miR-451a resulted in similar antineoplastic effects in GR-CCA. Furthermore, miR-451a reduced cell viability in 3D spheroid models and tumorigenic GBC organoids. These findings suggest that the supplementation of miR-451a is a potential treatment strategy for GEM-refractory BTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taisuke Obata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Koichiro Tsutsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Eijiro Ueta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Takashi Oda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kikuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Soichiro Ako
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yuki Fujii
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Yamazaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Daisuke Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Shigeru Horiguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hironari Kato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Okada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Otsuka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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15
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Zhang X, Yu C, Zhao S, Wang M, Shang L, Zhou J, Ma Y. The role of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: A narrative review. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22109-22129. [PMID: 38098217 PMCID: PMC10757104 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6717] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, with complex etiology and mechanism, and a high mortality rate. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are an important part of the HCC tumor microenvironment. Studies in recent years have shown that TAMs are involved in multiple stages of HCC and are related to treatment and prognosis in HCC. The specific mechanisms between TAMs and HCC are gradually being revealed. This paper reviews recent advances in the mechanisms associated with TAMs in HCC, concentrating on an overview of effects of TAMs on drug resistance in HCC and the signaling pathways linked with HCC, providing clues for the treatment and prognosis determination of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Chao Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Siqi Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Min Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Longcheng Shang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yong Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
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16
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Wang J, Zhang X, Ma X, Chen D, Cai M, Xiao L, Li J, Huang Z, Huang Y, Lian Y. Blockage of CacyBP inhibits macrophage recruitment and improves anti-PD-1 therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:303. [PMID: 37968706 PMCID: PMC10652496 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02885-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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite remarkable advancements in cancer immunotherapy, the overall response rate to anti-programmed cell death-1 (anti-PD-1) therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients remains low. Our previous study has demonstrated the critical role of CacyBP/SIP (Calcyclin-Binding Protein and Siah-1 Interacting Protein) as a regulator of HCC development and progression. However, the possible impact of CacyBP on the tumor immune microenvironment has not yet been clarified. METHODS The expressions of CacyBP and Myd88 in HCC cell lines and tissues was detected by bioinformatics analysis, real-time quantitative PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The interaction between CacyBP and Myd88 was measured using co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to investigate the regulation of CacyBP on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). RESULTS We identified that CacyBP was positively correlated with Myd88, a master regulator of innate immunity, and Myd88 was a novel binding substrate downstream of CacyBP in HCC. Additionally, CacyBP protected Myd88 from Siah-1-mediated proteasome-dependent degradation by competitively binding to its Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain. Inhibition of CacyBP-Myd88 signaling subsequently diminished HDAC1-mediated H3K9ac and H3K27ac modifications on the CX3CL1 promoter and reduced its transcription and secretion in HCC cells. Moreover, by using in vitro and in vivo strategies, we demonstrated that depletion of CacyBP impaired the infiltration of TAMs and the immunosuppressive state of the tumor microenvironment, further sensitizing HCC-bearing anti-PD-1 therapy. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that targeting CacyBP may be a novel treatment strategy for improving the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xinyi Ma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Dongmei Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Meina Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Lexin Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Zexuan Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Yuehua Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China.
| | - Yifan Lian
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 600 Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou, 510630, China.
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17
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Romeo M, Dallio M, Scognamiglio F, Ventriglia L, Cipullo M, Coppola A, Tammaro C, Scafuro G, Iodice P, Federico A. Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression: From Classic to Novel Clinicopathogenetic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5178. [PMID: 37958352 PMCID: PMC10647270 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15215178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a predominant malignancy with increasing incidences and mortalities worldwide. In Western countries, the progressive affirmation of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) as the main chronic liver disorder in which HCC occurrence is appreciable even in non-cirrhotic stages, constitutes a real health emergency. In light of this, a further comprehension of molecular pathways supporting HCC onset and progression represents a current research challenge to achieve more tailored prognostic models and appropriate therapeutic approaches. RNA non-coding transcripts (ncRNAs) are involved in the regulation of several cancer-related processes, including HCC. When dysregulated, these molecules, conventionally classified as "small ncRNAs" (sncRNAs) and "long ncRNAs" (lncRNAs) have been reported to markedly influence HCC-related progression mechanisms. In this review, we describe the main dysregulated ncRNAs and the relative molecular pathways involved in HCC progression, analyzing their implications in certain etiologically related contexts, and their applicability in clinical practice as novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools. Finally, given the growing evidence supporting the immune system response, the oxidative stress-regulated mechanisms, and the gut microbiota composition as relevant emerging elements mutually influencing liver-cancerogenesis processes, we investigate the relationship of ncRNAs with this triad, shedding light on novel pathogenetic frontiers of HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Romeo
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Marcello Dallio
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Flavia Scognamiglio
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Lorenzo Ventriglia
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Marina Cipullo
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Annachiara Coppola
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Chiara Tammaro
- Biochemistry Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.T.); (G.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Scafuro
- Biochemistry Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.T.); (G.S.)
| | - Patrizia Iodice
- Division of Medical Oncology, AORN Azienda dei Colli, Monaldi Hospital, Via Leonardo Bianchi, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Hepatogastroenterology Division, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Piazza Miraglia 2, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (F.S.); (L.V.); (M.C.); (A.C.); (A.F.)
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18
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Agirre-Lizaso A, Huici-Izagirre M, Urretabizkaia-Garmendia J, Rodrigues PM, Banales JM, Perugorria MJ. Targeting the Heterogeneous Tumour-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4977. [PMID: 37894344 PMCID: PMC10605535 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204977] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer that comprises a complex tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant immune cells present in the TME, and play a key role both in the development and in the progression of HCC. Thus, TAM-based immunotherapy has been presented as a promising strategy to complement the currently available therapies for HCC treatment. Among the novel approaches focusing on TAMs, reprogramming their functional state has emerged as a promising option for targeting TAMs as an immunotherapy in combination with the currently available treatment options. Nevertheless, a further understanding of the immunobiology of TAMs is still required. This review synthesizes current insights into the heterogeneous nature of TAMs in HCC and describes the mechanisms behind their pro-tumoural polarization focusing the attention on their interaction with HCC cells. Furthermore, this review underscores the potential involvement of TAMs' reprogramming in HCC therapy and highlights the urgency of advancing our understanding of these cells within the dynamic landscape of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aloña Agirre-Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Maider Huici-Izagirre
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Josu Urretabizkaia-Garmendia
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Pedro M. Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J. Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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19
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Li Z, Duan Y, Yan S, Zhang Y, Wu Y. The miR-302/367 cluster: Aging, inflammation, and cancer. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:752-766. [PMID: 37555645 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3836] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs that occupy a significant role in biological processes as important regulators of intracellular homeostasis. First, we will discuss the biological genesis and functions of the miR-302/367 cluster, including miR-302a, miR-302b, miR-302c, miR-302d, and miR-367, as well as their roles in physiologically healthy tissues. The second section of this study reviews the progress of the miR-302/367 cluster in the treatment of cancer, inflammation, and diseases associated with aging. This cluster's aberrant expression in cells and/or tissues exhibits similar or different effects in various diseases through molecular mechanisms such as proliferation, apoptosis, cycling, drug resistance, and invasion. This article also discusses the upstream and downstream regulatory networks of miR-302/367 clusters and their related mechanisms. Particularly because studies on the upstream regulatory molecules of miR-302/367 clusters, which include age-related macular degeneration, myocardial infarction, and cancer, have become more prevalent in recent years. MiR-302/367 cluster can be an important therapeutic target and the use of miRNAs in combination with other molecular markers may improve diagnostic or therapeutic capabilities, providing unique insights and a more dynamic view of various diseases. It is noted that miRNAs can be an important bio-diagnostic target and offer a promising method for illness diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Li
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yan Duan
- Department of Stomatology, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Shaofu Yan
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yunxia Wu
- Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
- Department of Stomatology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
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20
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Liao Y, Wu C, Li Y, Wen J, Zhao D. MIF is a critical regulator of mononuclear phagocytic infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma. iScience 2023; 26:107273. [PMID: 37520719 PMCID: PMC10371853 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is a promising approach to treating cancer. However, the limited drug targets and ambiguous mechanisms impede the development of clinical immunotherapy strategies. To elucidate the underlying processes involved in mononuclear phagocyte (MNP) infiltration and phenotypic changes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we integrated single-cell RNA-sequencing data from 100,030 cells derived from patients with HCC and healthy individuals and compared the phenotypes and origins of the MNPs in the tumor core, tumor periphery, adjacent normal tissue, and healthy liver samples. Using machine learning and multi-omics analyses, we identified 445 infiltration-associated genes and potential drug targets affecting this process. Through in vitro experiments, we found that the expression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is the upstream regulator of secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) and promote migration in TAMs. Our findings also indicate that MIF promotes tumor metastasis and invasion and is a promising potential target for treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxi Liao
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chenyang Wu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jinhua Wen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dongyu Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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21
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Xie S, Zhong J, Zhang Z, Huang W, Lin X, Pan Y, Kong X, Xia H, Yu Z, Ni H, Xia J. Novel risk model based on angiogenesis-related lncRNAs for prognosis prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:159. [PMID: 37550755 PMCID: PMC10408211 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02975-x] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related death due to early metastasis or recurrence. Tumor angiogenesis plays an essential role in the tumorigenesis of HCC. Accumulated studies have validated the crucial role of lncRNAs in tumor angiogenesis. Here, we established an angiogenesis-related multi-lncRNAs risk model based on the machine learning for HCC prognosis prediction. Firstly, a total of 348 differential expression angiogenesis-related lncRNAs were identified by correlation analysis. Then, 20 of these lncRNAs were selected through univariate cox analysis and used for in-depth study of machine learning. After 1,000 random sampling cycles calculating by random forest algorithm, four lncRNAs were found to be highly associated with HCC prognosis, namely LUCAT1, AC010761.1, AC006504.7 and MIR210HG. Subsequently, the results from both the training and validation sets revealed that the four lncRNAs-based risk model was suitable for predicting HCC recurrence. Moreover, the infiltration of macrophages and CD8 T cells were shown to be closely associated with risk score and promotion of immune escape. The reliability of this model was validated by exploring the biological functions of lncRNA MIR210HG in HCC cells. The results showed that MIR210HG silence inhibited HCC growth and migration through upregulating PFKFB4 and SPAG4. Taken together, this angiogenesis-related risk model could serve as a reliable and promising tool to predict the prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicheng Xie
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Jinwei Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhongjing Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Weiguo Huang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiaoben Lin
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yating Pan
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiuyan Kong
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Hongping Xia
- School of Medicine & Advanced Institute for Life and Health, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhijie Yu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Haizhen Ni
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jinglin Xia
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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22
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Zhu J, Fan J, Xia Y, Wang H, Li Y, Feng Z, Fu C. Potential therapeutic targets of macrophages in inhibiting immune damage and fibrotic processes in musculoskeletal diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1219487. [PMID: 37545490 PMCID: PMC10400722 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1219487] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are a heterogeneous cell type with high plasticity, exhibiting unique activation characteristics that modulate the progression and resolution of diseases, serving as a key mediator in maintaining tissue homeostasis. Macrophages display a variety of activation states in response to stimuli in the local environment, with their subpopulations and biological functions being dependent on the local microenvironment. Resident tissue macrophages exhibit distinct transcriptional profiles and functions, all of which are essential for maintaining internal homeostasis. Dysfunctional macrophage subpopulations, or an imbalance in the M1/M2 subpopulation ratio, contribute to the pathogenesis of diseases. In skeletal muscle disorders, immune and inflammatory damage, as well as fibrosis induced by macrophages, are prominent pathological features. Therefore, targeting macrophages is of great significance for maintaining tissue homeostasis and treating skeletal muscle disorders. In this review, we discuss the receptor-ligand interactions regulating macrophages and identify potential targets for inhibiting collateral damage and fibrosis in skeletal muscle disorders. Furthermore, we explore strategies for modulating macrophages to maintain tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiawei Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zijia Feng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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23
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Gu X, Min W, Zeng Y, Fan N, Qian Q. Aberrant KAT2A accumulations render TRIM22-low melanoma sensitive to Notch1 inhibitors via epigenetic reprogramming. J Transl Med 2023; 21:443. [PMID: 37415153 PMCID: PMC10324160 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04305-1] [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: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) triggers various disorders of biological events and contributes to progression of tumorigenesis. The tripartite motif containing 22 (TRIM22) was demonstrated to participate in the progression of multiple malignancies. Nevertheless, the role of TRIM22 in melanoma is still indefinite. This project aims to investigate the biological function of TRIM22 in melanoma and provide novel therapeutical targets. METHODS Bioinformatic algorithms were used to investigate prognostic significance of TRIM22. The in vitro or in vivo assays were used to explore the functions of TRIM22 in melanoma. The Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and in vivo ubiquitination assays were used to assess regulations of TRIM22 on lysine acetyltransferase 2 A (KAT2A). The Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and luciferase reporter assay were utilized to explore epigenetic regulations of KAT2A on Notch1. RESULTS Here, we utilized the bioinformatic methods to confirm that TRIM22 is decreased in melanoma than normal tissues. Patients with low TRIM22 levels had shorter survival months than those with high TRIM22 levels. Targeting TRIM22 favors melanoma cell migration, proliferation, and tumor development in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, TRIM22 interacts with KAT2A and promotes its degradation in a ubiquitination-dependent manner. Melanoma cells with TRIM22 deficiency depended on KAT2A to enhance malignant progression, including proliferation, migration, and in vivo growth. KEGG analysis determined the positive correlation between KAT2A and Notch signaling. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays implicated that KAT2A directly binds to the promoter region of Notch1 and mediates the enrichment of H3K9ac modification. KAT2A activates Notch1 transcriptional levels and sustains the stemness feature of melanoma cells. Nocth1 inhibitor (IMR-1) effectively suppresses the growth of TRIM22low melanoma in vitro and in vivo but fails to inhibit TRIM22high melanoma. CONCLUSION Together, our study illustrates the mechanism by which the TRIM22-KAT2A-Notch1 axis promotes melanoma progression, and demonstrates that KAT2A/Nocth1 confers an epigenetic vulnerability in TRIM22low melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Gu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Pinghai Road 899, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Wei Min
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Pinghai Road 899, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Yibin Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Pinghai Road 899, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Ni Fan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Pinghai Road 899, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Qihong Qian
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Pinghai Road 899, Suzhou, 215006, China.
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24
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Jiang X, Zhang H, Zhang H, Wang F, Wang X, Ding T, Zhang X, Wang T. Microcystin-LR-Induced Interaction between M2 Tumor-Associated Macrophage and Colorectal Cancer Cell Promotes Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration through Regulating the Expression of TGF-β1 and CST3. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10527. [PMID: 37445705 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310527] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by cyanobacteria that has been demonstrated to promote colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the mechanism by which MC-LR enhances CRC in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is poorly understood. To elucidate its role in TME, a co-culture system was established using CRC cells and M2 macrophages in a Transwell chamber. The study found that MC-LR promotes CRC cell migration by upregulating TGF-β1 expression and secretion in M2 macrophages and downregulating CST3 in CRC cells. Neutralizing TGF-β1 increased CST3 expression in CRC cells, while overexpressing CST3 in CRC cells suppressed TGF-β1 expression in M2 macrophages, both of which weakened MC-LR-induced cellular motility in the co-culture system. In vivo, the mice in the MC-LR/AOM/DSS group had more tumor nodules, deeper tumor invasion, and higher M2 macrophage infiltration compared to the AOM/DSS group, and the expression of TGF-β1 and CST3 in tumors was consistent with the cellular level. Overall, this study provides insights into the regulatory mechanism of MC-LR on TME, revealing that MC-LR upregulates the expression and secretion of TGF-β1 in M2 macrophages, which in turn inhibits the expression of CST3 in CRC cells to promote migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinying Jiang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Hailing Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Hengshuo Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiaochang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Tong Ding
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xuxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Xianlin Campus, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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25
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Xie Z, Zhou Z, Yang S, Zhang S, Shao B. Epigenetic regulation and therapeutic targets in the tumor microenvironment. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2023; 4:17. [PMID: 37273004 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-023-00126-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial to neoplastic processes, fostering proliferation, angiogenesis and metastasis. Epigenetic regulations, primarily including DNA and RNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA, have been generally recognized as an essential feature of tumor malignancy, exceedingly contributing to the dysregulation of the core gene expression in neoplastic cells, bringing about the evasion of immunosurveillance by influencing the immune cells in TME. Recently, compelling evidence have highlighted that clinical therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic machinery modulate carcinogenesis through targeting TME components, including normalizing cells' phenotype, suppressing cells' neovascularization and repressing the immunosuppressive components in TME. Therefore, TME components have been nominated as a promising target for epigenetic drugs in clinical cancer management. This review focuses on the mechanisms of epigenetic modifications occurring to the pivotal TME components including the stroma, immune and myeloid cells in various tumors reported in the last five years, concludes the tight correlation between TME reprogramming and tumor progression and immunosuppression, summarizes the current advances in cancer clinical treatments and potential therapeutic targets with reference to epigenetic drugs. Finally, we summarize some of the restrictions in the field of cancer research at the moment, further discuss several interesting epigenetic gene targets with potential strategies to boost antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuojun Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Zirui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuxian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiwen Zhang
- Department of Oral Implantology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Bin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, No. 14, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Sichuan, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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26
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Pathania AS. Crosstalk between Noncoding RNAs and the Epigenetics Machinery in Pediatric Tumors and Their Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2833. [PMID: 37345170 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, every year, an estimated 400,000+ new cancer cases affect children under the age of 20 worldwide. Unlike adult cancers, pediatric cancers develop very early in life due to alterations in signaling pathways that regulate embryonic development, and environmental factors do not contribute much to cancer development. The highly organized complex microenvironment controlled by synchronized gene expression patterns plays an essential role in the embryonic stages of development. Dysregulated development can lead to tumor initiation and growth. The low mutational burden in pediatric tumors suggests the predominant role of epigenetic changes in driving the cancer phenotype. However, one more upstream layer of regulation driven by ncRNAs regulates gene expression and signaling pathways involved in the development. Deregulation of ncRNAs can alter the epigenetic machinery of a cell, affecting the transcription and translation profiles of gene regulatory networks required for cellular proliferation and differentiation during embryonic development. Therefore, it is essential to understand the role of ncRNAs in pediatric tumor development to accelerate translational research to discover new treatments for childhood cancers. This review focuses on the role of ncRNA in regulating the epigenetics of pediatric tumors and their tumor microenvironment, the impact of their deregulation on driving pediatric tumor progress, and their potential as effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup S Pathania
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology & The Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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27
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Li J, Bao H, Huang Z, Liang Z, Wang M, Lin N, Ni C, Xu Y. Little things with significant impact: miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1191070. [PMID: 37274242 PMCID: PMC10235484 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1191070] [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] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has developed into one of the most lethal, aggressive, and malignant cancers worldwide. Although HCC treatment has improved in recent years, the incidence and lethality of HCC continue to increase yearly. Therefore, an in-depth study of the pathogenesis of HCC and the search for more reliable therapeutic targets are crucial to improving the survival quality of HCC patients. Currently, miRNAs have become one of the hotspots in life science research, which are widely present in living organisms and are non-coding RNAs involved in regulating gene expression. MiRNAs exert their biological roles by suppressing the expression of downstream genes and are engaged in various HCC-related processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, the expression status of miRNAs is related to the drug resistance mechanism of HCC, which has important implications for the systemic treatment of HCC. This paper reviews the regulatory role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC and the clinical applications of miRNAs in HCC in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehan Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haolin Bao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziyue Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zixin Liang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ning Lin
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chunjie Ni
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Fujian Medical University), Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Pharmacy and Individualized Therapy of Huzhou, Department of Pharmacy, Changxing People’s Hospital, Changxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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28
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Brown JS. Comparison of Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and MicroRNAs Between Schizophrenia and Glioma: The Balance of Power. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 151:105206. [PMID: 37178944 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The risk of cancer in schizophrenia has been controversial. Confounders of the issue are cigarette smoking in schizophrenia, and antiproliferative effects of antipsychotic medications. The author has previously suggested comparison of a specific cancer like glioma to schizophrenia might help determine a more accurate relationship between cancer and schizophrenia. To accomplish this goal, the author performed three comparisons of data; the first a comparison of conventional tumor suppressors and oncogenes between schizophrenia and cancer including glioma. This comparison determined schizophrenia has both tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting characteristics. A second, larger comparison between brain-expressed microRNAs in schizophrenia with their expression in glioma was then performed. This identified a core carcinogenic group of miRNAs in schizophrenia offset by a larger group of tumor-suppressive miRNAs. This proposed "balance of power" between oncogenes and tumor suppressors could cause neuroinflammation. This was assessed by a third comparison between schizophrenia, glioma and inflammation in asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma (ALRCM). This revealed that schizophrenia shares more oncogenic similarity to ALRCM than glioma.
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Xie YX, Zhou ZH, Liu SW, Zhang Y, Liu WJ, Zhang RK, He ML, Qiu JG, Wang L, Jiang BH. microRNA-497 slows esophageal cancer development and reverses chemotherapy resistance through its target QKI. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:3791-3806. [PMID: 37171386 PMCID: PMC10449293 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204713] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is considered one of the most lethal cancers in human beings, and multiple miRNAs have been investigated to be involved in EC development by targeting their target genes. However, the function and related mechanism of miRNA-497 on EC tumorigenesis remain uncertain. This study first demonstrated that the expression levels of miR-497 in esophageal cancer specimens and cells were down-regulated. Forced expression of miR-497 inhibited cell proliferation, tube formation and migration in EC cells. To further investigate the potential molecular mechanism of miR-497 suppression in regulating EC, we found that miR-497 directly binds to the 3'-untranslational region of QKI, miR-497 overexpression suppressed QKI expression. We further found that overexpression of miR-497 enhanced the effect of chemotherapy in EC cell lines, and prevented the tumor growth of EC in vivo. Our findings indicated that miR-497 suppression increased QKI expression and therapeutic resistance of esophageal cancer, which is likely to be a biomarker of EC progression and potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Xia Xie
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Zhou
- BGI College and Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Shu-Wen Liu
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Wen-Jing Liu
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Rui-Ke Zhang
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Ming-Liang He
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jian-Ge Qiu
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- BGI College and Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Bing-Hua Jiang
- Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
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30
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Mu W, Gu P, Song W, Zhu T, Wang W, Zhou Y. Comprehensive analysis and identification of the circ_0084615/miR-451a/MEF2D axis in benzo(a)pyrene exposed tumor cells in hepato-carcinogenesis. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 176:113810. [PMID: 37146711 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is caused by genetic and epigenetic alterations, as well as abnormal lifestyle and dietary habits, including contaminated food intake. Benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P), derived from deep-fried meats, is regarded as the main dietary factor for tumorigenesis in epidemiological investigations. Although various studies have illustrated the adverse effects of B[a]P in malignancy through cell and animal models, the correlation between B[a]P exposure and clinical data remain to be explored. In the present study, we analyzed and identified novel B[a]P-associated circular RNA (circRNA) from microarray databases of liver tumor cells and HCC patient samples. Considering that circRNA regulates mRNA as a miRNA sponge, molecular circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions based on the stimulation of B[a]P exposure were predicted and established. Furthermore, up-regulated circ_0084615 in B[a]P-treated tumor cells was verified as a miRNA sponge via fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assays, and the repression between circ_0084615 and target miR-451a exhibited a contrasting effect on hepatocarcinogenesis. Therefore, we performed integrated bioinformatics analysis and molecular experiments to establish the circ_0084615/miR-451a/MEF2D pathway, which provided a better understanding of the adverse effects of fried food preference on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Mu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Pengfei Gu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Weiwei Song
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Tengfei Zhu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wenbo Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Tenths People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Yanfeng Zhou
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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31
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Doghish AS, Elballal MS, Elazazy O, Elesawy AE, Elrebehy MA, Shahin RK, Midan HM, Sallam AAM. The role of miRNAs in liver diseases: Potential therapeutic and clinical applications. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 243:154375. [PMID: 36801506 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that function post-transcriptionally to regulate gene expression by binding to particular mRNA targets and causing destruction of the mRNA or translational inhibition of the mRNA. The miRNAs control the range of liver activities, from the healthy to the unhealthy. Considering that miRNA dysregulation is linked to liver damage, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis, miRNAs are a promising therapeutic strategy for the evaluation and treatment of liver illnesses. Recent findings on the regulation and function of miRNAs in liver diseases are discussed, with an emphasis on miRNAs that are highly expressed or enriched in hepatocytes. Alcohol-related liver illness, acute liver toxicity, viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and exosomes in chronic liver disease all emphasize the roles and target genes of these miRNAs. We briefly discuss the function of miRNAs in the etiology of liver diseases, namely in the transfer of information between hepatocytes and other cell types via extracellular vesicles. Here we offer some background on the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for the early prognosis, diagnosis, and assessment of liver diseases. The identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets for liver disorders will be made possible by future research into miRNAs in the liver, which will also help us better understand the pathogeneses of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohammed S Elballal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ola Elazazy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed E Elesawy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt.
| | - Reem K Shahin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Heba M Midan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Al-Aliaa M Sallam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
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Yu MY, Jia HJ, Zhang J, Ran GH, Liu Y, Yang XH. Exosomal miRNAs-mediated macrophage polarization and its potential clinical application. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 117:109905. [PMID: 36848789 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109905] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are highly heterogeneous and plastic immune cells that play an important role in the fight against pathogenic microorganisms and tumor cells. After different stimuli, macrophages can polarize to the M1 phenotype to show a pro-inflammatory effect and the M2 phenotype to show an anti-inflammatory effect. The balance of macrophage polarization is highly correlated with disease progression, and therapeutic approaches to reprogram macrophages by targeting macrophage polarization are feasible. There are a large number of exosomes in tissue cells, which can transmit information between cells. In particular, microRNAs (miRNAs) in the exosomes can regulate the polarization of macrophages and further affect the progression of various diseases. At the same time, exosomes are also effective "drug" carriers, laying the foundation for the clinical application of exosomes. This review describes some pathways involved in M1/M2 macrophage polarization and the effects of miRNA carried by exosomes from different sources on the polarization of macrophages. Finally, the application prospects and challenges of exosomes/exosomal miRNAs in clinical treatment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yun Yu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, No. 21 Bohai Road, Caofeidian Eco-city, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Hui Jie Jia
- School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan 671000, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, No. 21 Bohai Road, Caofeidian Eco-city, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China
| | - Guang He Ran
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Chang shou District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Xinglin Road, Peach Blossom New Town, Changshou District, 401200 Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, No. 21 Bohai Road, Caofeidian Eco-city, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China.
| | - Xiu Hong Yang
- Hebei Key Laboratory for Chronic Diseases, Tangshan Key Laboratory for Preclinical and Basic Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, No. 21 Bohai Road, Caofeidian Eco-city, Tangshan, 063210 Hebei, China.
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The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Liver Disease, Injury, and Regeneration. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030359. [PMID: 36766701 PMCID: PMC9914052 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030359] [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] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have diverse functions in health and pathology in many tissues, including the liver. This review highlights important microRNAs (miRs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in liver disease and regeneration. Greater attention is given to more prevalent and well characterized RNAs, including: miR-122, miR-21, the let-7 family of miRs, miR-451a, miR-144, and MALAT1.
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Tao S, Liang S, Zeng T, Yin D. Epigenetic modification-related mechanisms of hepatocellular carcinoma resistance to immune checkpoint inhibition. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1043667. [PMID: 36685594 PMCID: PMC9845774 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1043667] [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: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes most primary liver cancers and is one of the most lethal and life-threatening malignancies globally. Unfortunately, a substantial proportion of HCC patients are identified at an advanced stage that is unavailable for curative surgery. Thus, palliative therapies represented by multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) sorafenib remained the front-line treatment over the past decades. Recently, the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), especially targeting the PD-1/PD-L1/CTLA-4 axis, has achieved an inspiring clinical breakthrough for treating unresectable solid tumors. However, many HCC patients with poor responses lead to limited benefits in clinical applications, which has quickly drawn researchers' attention to the regulatory mechanisms of immune checkpoints in HCC immune evasion. Evasion of immune surveillance by cancer is attributed to intricate reprogramming modulation in the tumor microenvironment. Currently, more and more studies have found that epigenetic modifications, such as chromatin structure remodeling, DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, and non-coding RNA levels, may contribute significantly to remodeling the tumor microenvironment to avoid immune clearance, affecting the efficacy of immunotherapy for HCC. This review summarizes the rapidly emerging progress of epigenetic-related changes during HCC resistance to ICIs and discusses the mechanisms of underlying epigenetic therapies available for surmounting immune resistance. Finally, we summarize the clinical advances in combining epigenetic therapies with immunotherapy, aiming to promote the formation of immune combination therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shuhang Liang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Taofei Zeng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Dalong Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
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35
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Curcumin: An epigenetic regulator and its application in cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113956. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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36
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Deng Y, Xiao M, Wan AH, Li J, Sun L, Liang H, Wang QP, Yin S, Bu X, Wan G. RNA and RNA Derivatives: Light and Dark Sides in Cancer Immunotherapy. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:1266-1290. [PMID: 35369726 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Immunotherapy, which utilizes the patient's immune system to fight tumor cells, has been approved for the treatment of some types of advanced cancer. Recent Advances: The complexity and diversity of tumor immunity are responsible for the varying response rates toward current immunotherapy strategies and highlight the importance of exploring regulators in tumor immunotherapy. Several genetic factors have proved to be critical regulators of tumor immunotherapy. RNAs, including messenger RNAs and non-coding RNAs, play vital and diverse roles in tumorigenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and immunotherapy response. RNA modifications, including N6-methyladenosine methylation, are involved in tumor immunity. Critical Issues: A critical issue is the lack of summary of the regulatory RNA molecules and their derivatives in mediating immune activities in human cancers that could provide potential applications for tumor immunotherapeutic strategy. Future Directions: This review summarizes the dual roles (the light and dark sides) of RNA and its derivatives in tumor immunotherapy and discusses the development of RNA-based therapies as novel immunotherapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 1266-1290.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Deng
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Xiao
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Arabella H Wan
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiarui Li
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Sun
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng Liang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiao-Ping Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Sheng Yin
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianzhang Bu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guohui Wan
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (Cultivation), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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37
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Wang G, Luo G, Zhao M, Miao H. Significance of exosomes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1056379. [PMID: 36531059 PMCID: PMC9748478 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1056379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the most prevalent cancers in the world, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high mortality rate. The diagnosis and management of HCC are presently hindered by difficulties in early detection and suboptimal treatment outcomes. Exosomes have been shown to play an important role in hepatocarcinogenesis and can also be used for diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we discussed the research progress on exosomes in hepatocarcinogenesis development, tumor microenvironment remodeling, treatment resistance, and immunosuppression. HCC can be diagnosed and treated by understanding the pathogenesis and identifying early diagnostic markers. This review will be a significant reference for scholars with an initial understanding of the field to fully understand the role of exosomes in the organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- GuoYun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - GaiXiang Luo
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Gansu Provincial People’s Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - MeiJing Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - HuiLai Miao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Injury Diagnosis and Repair, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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38
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Jing F, Liu X, Chen X, Wu F, Gao Q. Tailoring biomaterials and applications targeting tumor-associated macrophages in cancers. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1049164. [PMID: 36439188 PMCID: PMC9691967 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1049164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a critical role in supporting tumor growth and metastasis, taming host immunosurveillance, and augmenting therapeutic resistance. As the current treatment paradigms for cancers are generally insufficient to exterminate cancer cells, anti-cancer therapeutic strategies targeting TAMs have been developed. Since TAMs are highly heterogeneous and the pro-tumoral functions are mediated by phenotypes with canonical surface markers, TAM-associated materials exert anti-tumor functions by either inhibiting polarization to the pro-tumoral phenotype or decreasing the abundance of TAMs. Furthermore, TAMs in association with the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor immunity have been extensively exploited in mounting evidence, and could act as carriers or accessory cells of anti-tumor biomaterials. Recently, a variety of TAM-based materials with the capacity to target and eliminate cancer cells have been increasingly developed for basic research and clinical practice. As various TAM-based biomaterials, including antibodies, nanoparticles, RNAs, etc., have been shown to have potential anti-tumor effects reversing the TME, in this review, we systematically summarize the current studies to fully interpret the specific properties and various effects of TAM-related biomaterials, highlighting the potential clinical applications of targeting the crosstalk among TAMs, tumor cells, and immune cells in anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangqi Jing
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Chen
- Department of Prosthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinghong Gao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Xiong Q, Zhang Y, Li J, Zhu Q. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Human Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13112072. [PMID: 36360311 PMCID: PMC9690286 DOI: 10.3390/genes13112072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs are widespread in the biological world and have been extensively explored over the past decades. Their fundamental roles in human health and disease are increasingly appreciated. Furthermore, a growing number of studies have investigated the functions of small non-coding RNAs in cancer initiation and progression. In this review, we provide an overview of the biogenesis of small non-coding RNAs with a focus on microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, and a new class of tRNA-derived small RNAs. We discuss their biological functions in human cancer and highlight their clinical application as molecular biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunli Xiong
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yaguang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence:
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Wang L, Li S, Luo H, Lu Q, Yu S. PCSK9 promotes the progression and metastasis of colon cancer cells through regulation of EMT and PI3K/AKT signaling in tumor cells and phenotypic polarization of macrophages. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:303. [PMID: 36242053 PMCID: PMC9563506 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is the ninth member of the proprotein convertase family that regulates lipoprotein homeostasis and altered PCSK9 expression was reportedly associated with tumor development and progression. This study assessed PCSK9 expression and functions in human colon cancer and then explored the underlying molecular events. Methods Colon cancer tissues were utilized for analysis of PCSK9 expression for association with clinicopathological factors from patients by immunohistochemistry assay. Manipulation of PCSK9 expression was assessed in vitro and in vivo for colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion using cell viability CCK-8, Transwell tumor cell migration and invasion, and wound-healing assays. Next, proteomic analysis, Western blot, qRT-PCR and Flow cytometry were conducted to assess downstream targets and tumor cell-derived PCSK9 action on macrophage polarization. Results PCSK9 expression was upregulated in colon cancer tissues versus the normal tissues, and associated with advanced tumor pathological grade. Knockdown of PCSK9 expression reduced colon cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and suppressed tumor metastasis in vivo. PCSK9 directly or indirectly upregulated Snail 1 and in turn to downregulate E-cadherin expression, but upregulate N-cadherin and MMP9 levels and thereafter, to induce colon cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and activated PI3K/AKT signaling. However, PCSK9 overexpression showed the inverse effects on colon cancer cells. Knockdown of PCSK9 expression inhibited M2 macrophage polarization, but also promoted M1 macrophage polarization by reduction of lactate, protein lactylation and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) levels. Conclusion PCSK9 played an important role in the progression and metastasis of colon cancer by regulation of tumor cell EMT and PI3K/AKT signaling and in the phenotypic polarization of macrophages by mediating MIF and lactate levels. Targeting PCSK9 expression or activity could be used to effectively control colon cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02477-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- grid.452222.10000 0004 4902 7837Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Department of Pharmacy, Central Hospital Affiliated to, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Shuangshuang Li
- grid.452222.10000 0004 4902 7837Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Huanhua Luo
- grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Department of Pharmacy, Central Hospital Affiliated to, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Qi Lu
- grid.452222.10000 0004 4902 7837Department of Pharmacy, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Shuwen Yu
- grid.452402.50000 0004 1808 3430Phase I Drug Clinical Trial Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
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Han Q, Wang M, Dong X, Wei F, Luo Y, Sun X. Non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: Insights into regulatory mechanisms, clinical significance, and therapeutic potential. Front Immunol 2022; 13:985815. [PMID: 36300115 PMCID: PMC9590653 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.985815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence and poor prognosis. In addition, owing to the lack of diagnostic and prognostic markers, current multimodal treatment options fail to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, metastasis, metabolism, and drug resistance are important factors influencing tumor development and therapy. The intercellular communication of these important processes is mediated by a variety of bioactive molecules to regulate pathophysiological processes in recipient cells. Among these bioactive molecules, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), account for a large part of the human transcriptome, and their dysregulation affects the progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the potential regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in HCC, summarize novel biomarkers from somatic fluids (plasma/serum/urine), and explore the potential of some small-molecule modulators as drugs. Thus, through this review, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms, early diagnosis, prognosis, and precise treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Han
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengchen Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wei
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
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Zhang C, Sun C, Zhao Y, Wang Q, Guo J, Ye B, Yu G. Overview of MicroRNAs as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers for High-Incidence Cancers in 2021. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911389. [PMID: 36232692 PMCID: PMC9570028 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) about 22 nucleotides in size, which play an important role in gene regulation and are involved in almost all major cellular physiological processes. In recent years, the abnormal expression of miRNAs has been shown to be associated with human diseases including cancer. In the past ten years, the link between miRNAs and various cancers has been extensively studied, and the abnormal expression of miRNAs has been reported in various malignant tumors, such as lung cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Due to the high malignancy grade of these cancers, it is more necessary to develop the related diagnostic and prognostic methods. According to the study of miRNAs, many potential cancer biomarkers have been proposed for the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases, especially cancer, thus providing a new theoretical basis and perspective for cancer screening. The use of miRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosis or prognosis of cancer has the advantages of being less invasive to patients, with better accuracy and lower price. In view of the important clinical significance of miRNAs in human cancer research, this article reviewed the research status of miRNAs in the above-mentioned cancers in 2021, especially in terms of diagnosis and prognosis, and provided some new perspectives and theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Caifang Sun
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Yabin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Qiwen Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Jianlin Guo
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Bingyu Ye
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (G.Y.)
| | - Guoying Yu
- State Key Laboratory Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Henan Center for Outstanding Overseas Scientists of Pulmonary Fibrosis, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (G.Y.)
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Cheng K, Cai N, Zhu J, Yang X, Liang H, Zhang W. Tumor-associated macrophages in liver cancer: From mechanisms to therapy. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:1112-1140. [PMID: 36069342 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Multidimensional analyses have demonstrated the presence of a unique tumor microenvironment (TME) in liver cancer. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are among the most abundant immune cells infiltrating the TME and are present at all stages of liver cancer progression, and targeting TAMs has become one of the most favored immunotherapy strategies. In addition, macrophages and liver cancer cells have distinct origins. At the early stage of liver cancer, macrophages can provide a niche for the maintenance of liver cancer stem cells. In contrast, cancer stem cells (CSCs) or poorly differentiated tumor cells are key factors modulating macrophage activation. In the present review, we first propose the origin connection between precursor macrophages and liver cancer cells. Macrophages undergo dynamic phenotypic transition during carcinogenesis. In this course of such transition, it is critical to determine the appropriate timing for therapy and block specific markers to suppress pro-tumoral TAMs. The present review provides a more detailed discussion of transition trends of such surface markers than previous reviews. Complex crosstalk occurs between TAMs and liver cancer cells. TAMs play indispensable roles in tumor progression, angiogenesis, and autophagy due to their heterogeneity and robust plasticity. In addition, macrophages in the TME interact with other immune cells by directing cell-to-cell contact or secreting various effector molecules. Similarly, tumor cells combined with other immune cells can drive macrophage recruitment and polarization. Despite the latest achievements and the advancements in treatment strategies following TAMs studies, comprehensive discussions on the communication between macrophages and cancer cells or immune cells in liver cancer are currently lacking. In this review, we discussed the interactions between TAMs and liver cancer cells (from cell origin to maturation), the latest therapeutic strategies (including chimeric antigen receptor macrophages), and critical clinical trials for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) to provide a rationale for further clinical investigation of TAMs as a potential target for treating patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Cheng
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Ning Cai
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Jinghan Zhu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Xing Yang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Wanguang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
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German B, Ellis L. Polycomb Directed Cell Fate Decisions in Development and Cancer. EPIGENOMES 2022; 6:28. [PMID: 36135315 PMCID: PMC9497807 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes6030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a subset of transcription regulators highly conserved throughout evolution. Their principal role is to epigenetically modify chromatin landscapes and control the expression of master transcriptional programs to determine cellular identity. The two mayor PcG protein complexes that have been identified in mammals to date are Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 (PRC2). These protein complexes selectively repress gene expression via the induction of covalent post-translational histone modifications, promoting chromatin structure stabilization. PRC2 catalyzes the histone H3 methylation at lysine 27 (H3K27me1/2/3), inducing heterochromatin structures. This activity is controlled by the formation of a multi-subunit complex, which includes enhancer of zeste (EZH2), embryonic ectoderm development protein (EED), and suppressor of zeste 12 (SUZ12). This review will summarize the latest insights into how PRC2 in mammalian cells regulates transcription to orchestrate the temporal and tissue-specific expression of genes to determine cell identity and cell-fate decisions. We will specifically describe how PRC2 dysregulation in different cell types can promote phenotypic plasticity and/or non-mutational epigenetic reprogramming, inducing the development of highly aggressive epithelial neuroendocrine carcinomas, including prostate, small cell lung, and Merkel cell cancer. With this, EZH2 has emerged as an important actionable therapeutic target in such cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz German
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Leigh Ellis
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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45
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Zhou Y, Liu F, Ma C, Cheng Q. Involvement of microRNAs and their potential diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic role in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24673. [PMID: 36036748 PMCID: PMC9551129 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 85%-90% of primary liver cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by targeting the 3'UTR of mRNA. Abnormal expression and regulation of miRNAs are involved in the occurrence and progression of HCC, and miRNAs can also play a role in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. METHODS In the past decades, a large number of studies have shown that miRNAs play an essential regulatory role in HCC and have potential as biomarkers for HCC. We reviewed the literature to summarize these studies. RESULTS By reviewing the literature, we retrospected the roles of miRNAs in the development, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of HCC, and put forward prospects for the further research on miRNAs in the precision treatment of HCC. CONCLUSION MicroRNAs are important regulators and biomarkers in the occurrence, progression, outcome, and treatment of HCC, and can provide new targets and strategies for improving the therapeutic effect of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Zhou
- Department of Surgery, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chunyang Ma
- Department of Surgery, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Tumor Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qiong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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46
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Wang YF, Yu L, Hu ZL, Fang YF, Shen YY, Song MF, Chen Y. Regulation of CCL2 by EZH2 affects tumor-associated macrophages polarization and infiltration in breast cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:748. [PMID: 36038549 PMCID: PMC9424193 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) play an important role in tumorigenesis, development and anti-cancer drug therapy. However, very few epigenetic compounds have been elucidated to affect tumor growth by educating TAMs in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we identified that EZH2 performs a crucial role in the regulation of TAMs infiltration and protumoral polarization by interacting with human breast cancer (BC) cells. We showed that EZH2 inhibitors-treated BC cells induced M2 macrophage polarization in vitro and in vivo, while EZH2 knockdown exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, inhibition of EZH2 histone methyltransferase alone by EZH2 inhibitors in breast cancer cells could reduce the enrichment of H3K27me3 on CCL2 gene promoter, elevate CCL2 transcription and secretion, contributing to the induction of M2 macrophage polarization and recruitment in TME, which reveal a potential explanation behind the frustrating results of EZH2 inhibitors against breast cancer. On the contrary, EZH2 depletion led to DNA demethylation and subsequent upregulation of miR-124-3p level, which inhibited its target CCL2 expression in the tumor cells, causing arrest of TAMs M2 polarization. Taken together, these data suggested that EZH2 can exert opposite regulatory effects on TAMs polarization through its enzymatic or non-enzymatic activities. Our results also imply that the effect of antitumor drugs on TAMs may affect its therapeutic efficacy, and the combined application with TAMs modifiers should be warranted to achieve great clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-fang Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Lei Yu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-long Hu
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-fen Fang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-yan Shen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Min-fang Song
- grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309Division of Anti-Tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Wang S, Liu G, Li Y, Pan Y. Metabolic Reprogramming Induces Macrophage Polarization in the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:840029. [PMID: 35874739 PMCID: PMC9302576 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.840029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are one of the most important cells in the innate immune system, they are converted into two distinct subtypes with completely different molecular phenotypes and functional features under different stimuli of the microenvironment: M1 macrophages induced by IFN-γ/lipopolysaccharides(LPS) and M2 macrophages induced by IL-4/IL-10/IL-13. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) differentiate from macrophages through various factors in the tumor microenvironment (TME). TAMs have the phenotype and function of M2 macrophages and are capable of secreting multiple cytokines to promote tumor progression. Both tumor cells and macrophages can meet the energy needs for rapid cell growth and proliferation through metabolic reprogramming, so a comprehensive understanding of pro-tumor and antitumor metabolic switches in TAM is essential to understanding immune escape mechanisms. This paper focuses on the functions of relevant signaling pathways and cytokines during macrophage polarization and metabolic reprogramming, and briefly discusses the effects of different microenvironments and macrophage pathogenicity, in addition to describing the research progress of inhibitory drugs for certain metabolic and polarized signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilin Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guohong Liu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yirong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunbao Pan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a well-recognized system that plays an essential role in tumor initiation, development, and progression. Intense intercellular communication between tumor cells and other cells (especially macrophages) occurs in the TME and is mediated by cell-to-cell contact and/or soluble messengers. Emerging evidence indicates that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are critical regulators of the relationship between cells within the TME. In this review, we provide an update on the regulation of ncRNAs (primarily micro RNAs [miRNAs], long ncRNAs [lncRNAs], and circular RNAs [circRNAs]) in the crosstalk between macrophages and tumor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These ncRNAs are derived from macrophages or tumor cells and act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors, contributing to tumor progression not only by regulating the physiological and pathological processes of tumor cells but also by controlling macrophage infiltration, activation, polarization, and function. Herein, we also explore the options available for clinical therapeutic strategies targeting crosstalk-related ncRNAs to treat HCC. A better understanding of the relationship between macrophages and tumor cells mediated by ncRNAs will uncover new diagnostic biomarkers and pharmacological targets in cancer.
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49
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Xing H, Gao M, Wang Y, Zhang X, Shi J, Wang X, Liu X, Ma Q, Kong X, Yang C, Ding J, Meng L. Genome-wide gain-of-function screening identifies EZH2 mediating resistance to PI3Kα inhibitors in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e835. [PMID: 35604910 PMCID: PMC9126361 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositide‐3 kinase alpha (PI3Kα) has been confirmed to be a potential therapeutic target for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), while the potency of PI3Kα inhibitors is often attenuated by concurrent oncogenic signalling pathways. We performed genome‐wide gain‐of‐function screening with a CRISPR‐SAM library and identified enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) rendering ESCC cells resistant to the PI3Kα inhibitor CYH33. Enhanced expression of EZH2 frequently occurs in ESCC and is related to poor prognosis. Overexpression of full‐length EZH2 but not methyltransferase‐deficient EZH2 conferred resistance to CYH33, while downregulating EZH2 expression restored sensitivity. EZH2 expression was negatively related to the activity of CYH33 against the proliferation of ESCC cell lines and patient‐derived cells. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that EZH2 abrogated CYH33‐mediated cell cycle regulation. EZH2 epigenetically suppressed the transcription of CDKN1A, promoting RB phosphorylation and cell cycle progression. Concurrently targeting EZH2 significantly potentiated CYH33 to inhibit the growth of ESCC cells and patient‐derived xenografts accompanied by enhanced cell cycle arrest. Taken together, our study demonstrated that an EZH2‐p21‐RB axis remodeled cell cycle regulation and rendered resistance to PI3Kα inhibitors in ESCC. Simultaneously targeting PI3Kα and EZH2 may provide an effective strategy for ESCC therapy with high expression of EZH2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xing
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengshi Gao
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxiang Wang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiajie Shi
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueling Liu
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyin Kong
- Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhao Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Linghua Meng
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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50
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Hillyar CR, Kanabar SS, Rallis KS, Varghese JS. Complex cross-talk between EZH2 and miRNAs confers hallmark characteristics and shapes the tumor microenvironment. Epigenomics 2022; 14:699-709. [PMID: 35574589 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer epigenetic mechanisms support the acquisition of hallmark characteristics during oncogenesis. EZH2 - an important histone methyltransferase that writes histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation marks - is known to be dysregulated in cancer cells. However, the interactions between EZH2 and miRNAs that form a complex network of cross-talk and reciprocal regulation that enable cancer cells to acquire hallmark characteristics have been relatively poorly appreciated. The specific functions of EZH2 appear to be regulated by a vast array of miRNAs, which direct EZH2 toward regulation over the development of specific hallmark characteristics. This review discusses recent advances in the understanding of EZH2, focusing on its collaboration with miRNAs to orchestrate oncogenesis. These epigenetic processes promote the evasion of apoptosis/cell cycle arrest, cellular dedifferentiation and the establishment of a tumor microenvironment that facilitates local cancer cell invasion, anti-cancer drug resistance and evasion of the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Rt Hillyar
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX2 6HG, UK.,Surgery, Women's and Oncology Division, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Shivani S Kanabar
- University of Birmingham Medical School, College of Medical & Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kathrine S Rallis
- Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 2AD, UK
| | - Jajini S Varghese
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, University College London, London, NW3 2QG, UK
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