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Wang G, Zhuang T, Zhen F, Zhang C, Wang Q, Miao X, Qi N, Yao R. IGF2BP2 inhibits invasion and migration of clear cell renal cell carcinoma via targeting Netrin-4 in an m 6A-dependent manner. Mol Carcinog 2024; 63:1572-1587. [PMID: 38780170 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23746] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma, often leads to a poor prognosis due to metastasis. The investigation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, a crucial RNA modification, and its role in ccRCC, particularly through the m6A reader insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), revealed significant insights. We found that IGF2BP2 was notably downregulated in ccRCC, which correlated with tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Thus, IGFBP2 has emerged as an independent prognostic factor of ccRCC. Moreover, a strong positive correlation was observed between the expression of IGF2BP2 and Netrin-4. Netrin-4 was also downregulated in ccRCC, and its lower levels were associated with increased malignancy and poor prognosis. Overexpression of IGF2BP2 and Netrin-4 suppressed the invasion and migration of ccRCC cells, while Netrin-4 knockdown reversed these effects in ccRCC cell lines. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP)-quantitative polymerase chain reaction validated the robust enrichment of Netrin-4 mRNA in anti-IGF2BP2 antibody immunoprecipitates. MeRlP showed significantly increased Netrin4 m6A levels after lGF2BP2 overexpression. Moreover, we found that IGF2BP2 recognized and bound to the m6A site within the coding sequence of Netrin-4, enhancing its mRNA stability. Collectively, these results showed that IGF2BP2 plays a suppressive role in the invasion and migration of ccRCC cells by targeting Netrin-4 in an m6A-dependent manner. These findings underscore the potential of IGF2BP2/Netrin-4 as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in patients with ccRCC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui Wang
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Tao Zhuang
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Fei Zhen
- Department of Pathology, Hongze Huaian District People's Hospital, Hongze, China
| | - Chu Zhang
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qichao Wang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xu Miao
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Nienie Qi
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ruiqin Yao
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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Zhang X, Shi J, Jin S, Wang R, Li M, Zhang Z, Yang X, Ma H. Metabolic landscape of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma informs a novel kynurenine/Siglec-15 axis in immune escape. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2024; 44:670-694. [PMID: 38734931 PMCID: PMC11194450 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12545] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic reprograming and immune escape are two hallmarks of cancer. However, how metabolic disorders drive immune escape in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic landscape of HNSCC and its mechanism of driving immune escape. METHODS Analysis of paired tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues from 69 HNSCC patients was performed using liquid/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and RNA-sequencing. The tumor-promoting function of kynurenine (Kyn) was explored in vitro and in vivo. The downstream target of Kyn was investigated in CD8+ T cells. The regulation of CD8+ T cells was investigated after Siglec-15 overexpression in vivo. An engineering nanoparticle was established to deliver Siglec-15 small interfering RNA (siS15), and its association with immunotherapy response were investigated. The association between Siglec-15 and CD8+ programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)+ T cells was analyzed in a HNSCC patient cohort. RESULTS A total of 178 metabolites showed significant dysregulation in HNSCC, including carbohydrates, lipids and lipid-like molecules, and amino acids. Among these, amino acid metabolism was the most significantly altered, especially Kyn, which promoted tumor proliferation and metastasis. In addition, most immune checkpoint molecules were upregulated in Kyn-high patients based on RNA-sequencing. Furthermore, tumor-derived Kyn was transferred into CD8+ T cells and induced T cell functional exhaustion, and blocking Kyn transporters restored its killing activity. Accroding to the results, mechanistically, Kyn transcriptionally regulated the expression of Siglec-15 via aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), and overexpression of Siglec-15 promoted immune escape by suppressing T cell infiltration and activation. Targeting AhR in vivo reduced Kyn-mediated Siglec-15 expression and promoted intratumoral CD8+ T cell infiltration and killing capacity. Finally, a NH2-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticle was designed to deliver siS15, which restored CD8+ T cell function status and enhanced anti-PD-1 efficacy in tumor-bearing immunocompetent mice. Clinically, Siglec-15 was positively correlated with AhR expression and CD8+PD-1+ T cell infiltration in HNSCC tissues. CONCLUSIONS The findings describe the metabolic landscape of HNSCC comprehensively and reveal that the Kyn/Siglec-15 axis may be a novel potential immunometabolism mechanism, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin‐Yu Zhang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Jian‐Bo Shi
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Shu‐Fang Jin
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
- Department of Second Dental CenterShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Rui‐Jie Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Ming‐Yu Li
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Zhi‐Yuan Zhang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Hai‐Long Ma
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial‐Head and Neck OncologyShanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesShanghaiP. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of StomatologyShanghaiP. R. China
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Li YJ, Qiu YL, Li MR, Shen M, Zhang F, Shao JJ, Xu XF, Zhang ZL, Zheng SZ. New horizons for the role of RNA N6-methyladenosine modification in hepatocellular carcinoma. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1130-1141. [PMID: 38195693 PMCID: PMC11130213 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01214-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancy, presenting a formidable challenge to the medical community owing to its intricate pathogenic mechanisms. Although current prevention, surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment have achieved some success in preventing HCC and controlling overall disease mortality, the imperative to explore novel treatment modalities for HCC remains increasingly urgent. Epigenetic modification has emerged as pivotal factors in the etiology of cancer. Among these, RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification stands out as one of the most prevalent, abundant, and evolutionarily conserved post-transcriptional alterations in eukaryotes. The literature underscores that the dynamic and reversible nature of m6A modifications orchestrates the intricate regulation of gene expression, thereby exerting a profound influence on cell destinies. Increasing evidence has substantiated conspicuous fluctuations in m6A modification levels throughout the progression of HCC. The deliberate modulation of m6A modification levels through molecular biology and pharmacological interventions has been demonstrated to exert a discernible impact on the pathogenesis of HCC. In this review, we elucidate the multifaceted biological functions of m6A modifications in HCC, and concurrently advancing novel therapeutic strategies for the management of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jia Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yang-Ling Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Meng-Ran Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Min Shen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jiang-Juan Shao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xue-Fen Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zi-Li Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Shi-Zhong Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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4
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Xing Z, Xu Y, Xu X, Yang K, Qin S, Jiao Y, Wang L. Identification and validation of a novel risk model based on cuproptosis‑associated m6A for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:137. [PMID: 38778403 PMCID: PMC11110395 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01916-5] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent cancer with a poor survival rate due to anatomical limitations of the head and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Cuproptosis represents a novel cellular regulated death pathway, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common internal RNA modification in mRNA. They are intricately connected to tumor formation, progression, and prognosis. This study aimed to construct a risk model for HNSCC using a set of mRNAs associated with m6A regulators and cuproptosis genes (mcrmRNA). METHODS RNA-seq and clinical data of HNSCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed to develop a risk model through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. Survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed for the high- and low-risk groups. Additionally, the model was validated using the GSE41613 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GSEA and CIBERSORT were applied to investigate the immune microenvironment of HNSCC. RESULTS A risk model consisting of 32 mcrmRNA was developed using the LASSO analysis. The risk score of patients was confirmed to be an independent prognostic indicator by multivariate Cox analysis. The high-risk group exhibited a higher tumor mutation burden. Additionally, CIBERSORT analysis indicated varying levels of immune cell infiltration between the two groups. Significant disparities in drug sensitivity to common medications were also observed. Enrichment analysis further unveiled significant differences in metabolic pathways and RNA processing between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our risk model can predict outcomes for HNSCC patients and offers valuable insights for personalized therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxu Xing
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yijun Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Kaiwen Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Songbing Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China
| | - Yang Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 21500, China.
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Wu C, Li L, Tang Q, Liao Q, Chen P, Guo C, Zeng Z, Xiong W. Role of m 6A modifications in immune evasion and immunotherapy. Med Oncol 2024; 41:159. [PMID: 38761335 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02402-9] [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: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
RNA modification has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its pivotal role in tumorigenesis and immune surveillance. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent RNA modification, which can affect the expression of RNA by methylating adenylate at the sixth N position to regulate the occurrence and development of tumors. Dysregulation of m6A affects the activation of cancer-promoting pathways, destroys immune cell function, maintains immunosuppressive microenvironment, and promotes tumor cell growth. In this review, we delve into the latest insights into how abnormalities in m6A modification in both tumor and immune cells orchestrate immune evasion through the activation of signaling pathways. Furthermore, we explore how dysregulated m6A modification in tumor cells influences immune cells, thereby regulating tumor immune evasion via interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Lastly, we highlight recent discoveries regarding specific inhibitors of m6A modulators and the encapsulation of m6A-targeting nanomaterials for cancer therapy, discussing their potential applications in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lvyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pan Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Can Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Guo J, Zhao L, Duan M, Yang Z, Zhao H, Liu B, Wang Y, Deng L, Wang C, Jiang X, Jiang X. Demethylases in tumors and the tumor microenvironment: Key modifiers of N 6-methyladenosine methylation. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116479. [PMID: 38537580 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116479] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation modifications are widespread in eukaryotes and prokaryotes, with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) the most common among them. Demethylases, including Fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) and AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5), are important in maintaining the balance between RNA methylation and demethylation. Recent studies have clearly shown that demethylases affect the biological functions of tumors by regulating their m6A levels. However, their effects are complicated, and even opposite results have appeared in different articles. Here, we summarize the complex regulatory networks of demethylases, including the most important and common pathways, to clarify the role of demethylases in tumors. In addition, we describe the relationships between demethylases and the tumor microenvironment, and introduce their regulatory mechanisms. Finally, we discuss evaluation of demethylases for tumor diagnosis and prognosis, as well as the clinical application of demethylase inhibitors, providing a strong basis for their large-scale clinical application in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junchen Guo
- Departmentof Radiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Shenyang Anorectal Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning 110002, China
| | - Meiqi Duan
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - He Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Baiming Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Yihan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Liping Deng
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China
| | - Xiaodi Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110002, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110032, China.
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Hu A, Sun L, Lin H, Liao Y, Yang H, Mao Y. Harnessing innate immune pathways for therapeutic advancement in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:68. [PMID: 38523155 PMCID: PMC10961329 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01765-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The innate immune pathway is receiving increasing attention in cancer therapy. This pathway is ubiquitous across various cell types, not only in innate immune cells but also in adaptive immune cells, tumor cells, and stromal cells. Agonists targeting the innate immune pathway have shown profound changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and improved tumor prognosis in preclinical studies. However, to date, the clinical success of drugs targeting the innate immune pathway remains limited. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that activation of the innate immune pathway can paradoxically promote tumor progression. The uncertainty surrounding the therapeutic effectiveness of targeted drugs for the innate immune pathway is a critical issue that needs immediate investigation. In this review, we observe that the role of the innate immune pathway demonstrates heterogeneity, linked to the tumor development stage, pathway status, and specific cell types. We propose that within the TME, the innate immune pathway exhibits multidimensional diversity. This diversity is fundamentally rooted in cellular heterogeneity and is manifested as a variety of signaling networks. The pro-tumor effect of innate immune pathway activation essentially reflects the suppression of classical pathways and the activation of potential pro-tumor alternative pathways. Refining our understanding of the tumor's innate immune pathway network and employing appropriate targeting strategies can enhance our ability to harness the anti-tumor potential of the innate immune pathway and ultimately bridge the gap from preclinical to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yuheng Liao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine (Ministry of Education), and Molecular and Cell Biology Lab, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
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8
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Zhuang Q, Dai Z, Xu X, Bai S, Zhang Y, Zheng Y, Xing X, Hu E, Wang Y, Guo W, Zhao B, Zeng Y, Liu X. RNA Methyltransferase FTSJ3 Regulates the Type I Interferon Pathway to Promote Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Evasion. Cancer Res 2024; 84:405-418. [PMID: 37963197 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-2049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint blockade have achieved remarkable success in treating cancer. Unfortunately, response rates have been limited in multiple cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The critical function of epigenetics in tumor immune evasion and antitumor immunity supports harnessing epigenetic regulators as a potential strategy to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. Here, we discovered a tumor-promoting function of FTSJ3, an RNA 2'-O-methyltransferase, in HCC by suppressing antitumor immune responses. FTSJ3 was upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma, and high FTSJ3 expression correlated with reduced patient survival. Deletion of FTSJ3 blocked HCC growth and induced robust antitumor immune responses. Mechanistically, FTSJ3 suppressed double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-induced IFNβ signaling in a 2'-O-methyltransferase manner. Deletion of RNA sensors in HCC cells or systemic knockout of type I IFN receptor IFNAR in mice rescued the in vivo tumor growth defect caused by FTSJ3 deficiency, indicating that FTSJ3 deletion suppresses tumor growth by activating the RNA sensor-mediated type I IFN pathway. Furthermore, FTSJ3 deletion significantly enhanced the efficacy of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint blockade. The combination of FTSJ3 deficiency and anti-PD-1 antibody treatment effectively eradicated tumors and increased the survival time. In conclusion, this study reveals an epigenetic mechanism of tumor immune evasion and, importantly, suggests FTSJ3-targeting therapies as potential approach to overcome immunotherapy resistance in patients with HCC. SIGNIFICANCE Hepatocellular carcinoma cells use 2'-O-methylation catalyzed by FTSJ3 for immune evasion by suppressing abnormal dsRNA-mediated type I IFN responses, providing a potential target to activate antitumor immunity and enhance immunotherapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyu Zhuang
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhiguo Dai
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xuechun Xu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Shaoyi Bai
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yindan Zhang
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Youshi Zheng
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohua Xing
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - En Hu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yingchao Wang
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wuhua Guo
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Bixing Zhao
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yongyi Zeng
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- The Liver Center of Fujian Province, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
- Mengchao Med-X Center, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, P.R. China
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9
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An X, Wang R, Lv Z, Wu W, Sun Z, Wu R, Yan W, Jiang Q, Xu X. WTAP-mediated m 6A modification of FRZB triggers the inflammatory response via the Wnt signaling pathway in osteoarthritis. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:156-167. [PMID: 38172596 PMCID: PMC10834961 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01135-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. However, the exact pathogenesis remains unclear. Emerging evidence shows that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification may have an important role in OA pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the role of m6A writers and the underlying mechanisms in osteoarthritic cartilage. Among m6A methyltransferases, Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP) expression most significantly differed in clinical osteoarthritic cartilage. WTAP regulated extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, inflammation and antioxidation in human chondrocytes. Mechanistically, the m6A modification and relative downstream targets in osteoarthritic cartilage were assessed by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and RNA sequencing, which indicated that the expression of frizzled-related protein (FRZB), a secreted Wnt antagonist, was abnormally decreased and accompanied by high m6A modification in osteoarthritic cartilage. In vitro dysregulated WTAP had positive effects on β-catenin expression by targeting FRZB, which finally contributed to the cartilage injury phenotype in chondrocytes. Intra-articular injection of adeno-associated virus-WTAP alleviated OA progression in a mouse model, while this protective effect could be reversed by the application of a Wnt/β-catenin activator. In summary, this study revealed that WTAP-dependent RNA m6A modification contributed to Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation and OA progression through post-transcriptional regulation of FRZB mRNA, thus providing a potentially effective therapeutic strategy for OA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying An
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Rongliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Zhongyang Lv
- Department of Orthopedic, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Wenshu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Ziying Sun
- Department of Orthopedic, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Rui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Wenjin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China.
| | - Qing Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China.
| | - Xingquan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, P.R. China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nanjing, P.R. China.
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10
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Yang Z, Zhang S, Xiong J, Xia T, Zhu R, Miao M, Li K, Chen W, Zhang L, You Y, You B. The m 6A demethylases FTO and ALKBH5 aggravate the malignant progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by coregulating ARHGAP35. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:43. [PMID: 38263362 PMCID: PMC10806234 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01810-0] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an RNA modification that can be removed by demethylases [fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) and AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5)], which regulate gene expression and cell function. We show that m6A levels and m6A demethylase levels are altered in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) tissues vs. normal tissues. High FTO and ALKBH5 predict a poor prognosis in NPC patients. Silencing FTO and ALKBH5 inhibited the malignant behavior of patient-derived NPC cells in a short time. However, as time progressed, the inhibitory effect of FTO or ALKBH5 was weakened, and the cosilencing of FTO and ALKBH5 maintained a better inhibitory effect. Combined transcriptome and m6A-seq analysis revealed a downstream target gene that was jointly regulated by FTO and ALKBH5 in NPC, and ARHGAP35 was chosen to do further study. The synergistic silencing of FTO and ALKBH5 increased the methylation level on the mRNA CDS of a new transcription factor (ARHGAP35) and positively regulate the protein coding capacity and mRNA stability of ARHGAP35, thus leading to increased expression of ARHGAP35 and inhibition of the malignant phenotype of tumor cells. Our study revealed that the growth and metastasis of NPC can be stably inhibited through synergistic silencing of the demethylases FTO and ALKBH5, which play a positive role in the treatment of NPC by regulating the downstream transcript ARHGAP35 and increasing its m6A level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiayan Xiong
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Mengyu Miao
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Keying Li
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Wenyue Chen
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Haimen People's Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Yiwen You
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
| | - Bo You
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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11
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Wang X, Ling R, Peng Y, Qiu W, Chen D. RNPS1 stabilizes NAT10 protein to facilitate translation in cancer via tRNA ac 4C modification. Int J Oral Sci 2024; 16:6. [PMID: 38246918 PMCID: PMC10800354 DOI: 10.1038/s41368-023-00276-7] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Existing studies have underscored the pivotal role of N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) in various cancers. However, the outcomes of protein-protein interactions between NAT10 and its protein partners in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remain unexplored. In this study, we identified a significant upregulation of RNA-binding protein with serine-rich domain 1 (RNPS1) in HNSCC, where RNPS1 inhibits the ubiquitination degradation of NAT10 by E3 ubiquitin ligase, zinc finger SWIM domain-containing protein 6 (ZSWIM6), through direct protein interaction, thereby promoting high NAT10 expression in HNSCC. This upregulated NAT10 stability mediates the enhancement of specific tRNA ac4C modifications, subsequently boosting the translation process of genes involved in pathways such as IL-6 signaling, IL-8 signaling, and PTEN signaling that play roles in regulating HNSCC malignant progression, ultimately influencing the survival and prognosis of HNSCC patients. Additionally, we pioneered the development of TRMC-seq, leading to the discovery of novel tRNA-ac4C modification sites, thereby providing a potent sequencing tool for tRNA-ac4C research. Our findings expand the repertoire of tRNA ac4C modifications and identify a role of tRNA ac4C in the regulation of mRNA translation in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Wang
- Center For Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongsong Ling
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yurong Peng
- Center For Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiqiong Qiu
- Center For Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Demeng Chen
- Center For Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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12
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Liu Y, Pang Z, Wang J, Wang J, Ji B, Xu Y, He J, Zhang L, Han Y, Shen L, Xu W, Ren M. Multi-omics comprehensive analysis reveals the predictive value of N6-methyladenosine- related genes in prognosis and immune escape of bladder cancer. Cancer Biomark 2024; 40:79-94. [PMID: 38517777 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-230286] [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] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most frequent RNA modification in mammals, and its role in bladder cancer (BC) remains rarely revealed. OBJECTIVE To predict the value of m6A-related genes in prognosis and immunity in BC. METHODS We performed multiple omics analysis of 618 TCGA and GEO patients and used principal component analysis (PCA) to calculate the m6A score for BC patients. RESULTS We described the multiple omics status of 23 m6A methylation-related genes (MRGs), and four m6A clusters were identified, which showed significant differences in immune infiltration and biological pathways. Next, we intersected the differential genes among m6A clusters, and 11 survival-related genes were identified, which were used to calculate the m6A score for the patients. We found that the high-score (HS) group showed lower tumor mutation burden (TMB) and TP53 mutations and better prognosis than the low-score (LS) group. Lower immune infiltration, higher expression of PD-L1, PD-1, and CTLA4, and higher immune dysfunction and immune exclusion scores were identified in the LS group, suggesting a higher possibility of immune escape. Finally, the experimental verification shows that the m6A related genes, such as IGFBP1, plays an important role in the growth and metastasis of bladder cancer. CONCLUSIONS These findings revealed the important roles of m6A MRGs in predicting prognosis, TMB status, TP53 mutation, immune functions and immunotherapeutic response in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Urology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zhongqi Pang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jianshe Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jinfeng Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bo Ji
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yidan Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiaxin He
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yansong Han
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Linkun Shen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wanhai Xu
- Department of Urology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Minghua Ren
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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13
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Hu A, Sun L, Lin H, Liao Y, Yang H, Mao Y. Harnessing the innate immune system by revolutionizing macrophage-mediated cancer immunotherapy. J Biosci 2024; 49:63. [PMID: 38864238 PMCID: PMC10961329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a promising and safer alternative to conventional cancer therapies. It involves adaptive T-cell therapy, cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) based therapies. However, most of these modalities encounter restrictions in solid tumours owing to a dense, highly hypoxic and immune-suppressive microenvironment as well as the heterogeneity of tumour antigens. The elevated intra-tumoural pressure and mutational rates within fastgrowing solid tumours present challenges in efficient drug targeting and delivery. The tumour microenvironment is a dynamic niche infiltrated by a variety of immune cells, most of which are macrophages. Since they form a part of the innate immune system, targeting macrophages has become a plausible immunotherapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss several versatile approaches (both at pre-clinical and clinical stages) such as the direct killing of tumour-associated macrophages, reprogramming pro-tumour macrophages to anti-tumour phenotypes, inhibition of macrophage recruitment into the tumour microenvironment, novel CAR macrophages, and genetically engineered macrophages that have been devised thus far. These strategies comprise a strong and adaptable macrophage-toolkit in the ongoing fight against cancer and by understanding their significance, we may unlock the full potential of these immune cells in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yuheng Liao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine (Ministry of Education), and Molecular and Cell Biology Lab, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
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14
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Gu J, Cao H, Chen X, Zhang XD, Thorne RF, Liu X. RNA m6A modifications regulate crosstalk between tumor metabolism and immunity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1829. [PMID: 38114887 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, m6A modifications in RNA transcripts have arisen as a hot topic in cancer research. Indeed, a number of independent studies have elaborated that the m6A modification impacts the behavior of tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, altering tumor cell metabolism along with the differentiation and functional activity of immune cells. This review elaborates on the links between RNA m6A modifications, tumor cell metabolism, and immune cell behavior, discussing this topic from the viewpoint of reciprocal regulation through "RNA m6A-tumor cell metabolism-immune cell behavior" and "RNA m6A-immune cell behavior-tumor cell metabolism" axes. In addition, we discuss the various factors affecting RNA m6A modifications in the tumor microenvironment, particularly the effects of hypoxia associated with cancer cell metabolism along with immune cell-secreted cytokines. Our analysis proposes the conclusion that RNA m6A modifications support widespread interactions between tumor metabolism and tumor immunity. With the current viewpoint that long-term cancer control must tackle cancer cell malignant behavior while strengthening anti-tumor immunity, the recognition of RNA m6A modifications as a key factor provides a new direction for the targeted therapy of tumors. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Gu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huake Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rick F Thorne
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Long Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Translational Research Institute of Henan Provincial People's Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
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15
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Wang YZ, Li HY, Zhang Y, Jiang RX, Xu J, Gu J, Jiang Z, Jiang ZY, You QD, Guo XK. Discovery of Pyrazolo[1,5- a]pyrimidine Derivative as a Novel and Selective ALKBH5 Inhibitor for the Treatment of AML. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15944-15959. [PMID: 37983486 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
M6A (N6-methyladenosine) plays a significant role in regulating RNA processing, splicing, nucleation, translation, and stability. AlkB homologue 5 (ALKBH5) is an Fe(II)/2-oxoglutarate (2-OG)-dependent dioxygenase that demethylates mono- or dimethylated adenosines. ALKBH5 can be regarded as an oncogenic factor for various human cancers. However, the discovery of potent and selective ALKBH5 inhibitors remains a challenge. We identified DDO-2728 as a novel and selective inhibitor of ALKBH5 by structure-based virtual screening and optimization. DDO-2728 was not a 2-oxoglutarate analogue and could selectively inhibit the demethylase activity of ALKBH5 over FTO. DDO-2728 increased the abundance of m6A modifications in AML cells, reduced the mRNA stability of TACC3, and inhibited cell cycle progression. Furthermore, DDO-2728 significantly suppressed tumor growth in the MV4-11 xenograft mouse model and showed a favorable safety profile. Collectively, our results highlight the development of a selective probe for ALKBH5 that will pave the way for the further study of ALKBH5 targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Zhe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hong-Yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Rui-Xin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jing Gu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zheng-Yu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Ke Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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16
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Xiong D, Zhang L, Sun ZJ. Targeting the epigenome to reinvigorate T cells for cancer immunotherapy. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:59. [PMID: 38044445 PMCID: PMC10694991 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00496-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the field of cancer treatment; however, ICI efficacy is constrained by progressive dysfunction of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is termed T cell exhaustion. This process is driven by diverse extrinsic factors across heterogeneous tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Simultaneously, tumorigenesis entails robust reshaping of the epigenetic landscape, potentially instigating T cell exhaustion. In this review, we summarize the epigenetic mechanisms governing tumor microenvironmental cues leading to T cell exhaustion, and discuss therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for immunotherapies. Finally, we outline conceptual and technical advances in developing potential treatment paradigms involving immunostimulatory agents and epigenetic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
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17
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Zhang C, Xie L, Lin Z. Homeobox-D 1 and FTO form a transcriptional-epigenetic feedback loop to promote head and neck cancer proliferation. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1987-1998. [PMID: 37655555 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12087] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifiers are involved in tumor progression through transcriptional regulation and posttranscriptional regulation of genes, respectively. However, the crosstalk and role of these two types of gene expression regulators in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remains poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that the TF homeobox-D1 (HOXD1) and the m6A demethylase fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) form a positive feedback loop to promote cell proliferation and survival in HNSC. Clinically, HOXD1 expression is dysregulated in multiple cancer types and is associated with worse prognosis in patients with HNSC, stomach adenocarcinoma, uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma, and pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. Mechanistically, FTO is overexpressed in HNSC tumor samples and positively regulates HOXD1 expression in an m6A-dependent manner. Functionally, deficiency of HOXD1 relieved the resistance of HNSC cells to apoptosis and arrested tumor cells at the G0/G1 phase, thereby inhibiting cell growth, whereas overexpression of HOXD1 caused the opposite effect. Furthermore, HOXD1 activates the transcription of the oncogenic factor FTO by directly targeting its promoter. Downregulation of FTO mimicked the biological effect of HOXD1 knockdown on HNSC. Importantly, overexpression of HOXD1 significantly rescued the proliferation inhibition and apoptosis promotion of HNSC cells induced by deficiency of FTO. Together, our findings reveal HOXD1 as a novel prognostic predictor and a potential target for HNSC, providing mechanistic insights into the role of the HOXD1-FTO circuit in this cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Linsen Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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18
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Li T, Tian L, Cao J, Liu M. Cancer-associated fibroblasts secret extracellular vesicles to support cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Probes 2023; 72:101934. [PMID: 37777021 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
As the critical components of tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) support the development of various type of cancers, including laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), but the detailed molecular mechanisms by which cancer-associated fibroblasts interact with LSCC cells to facilitate its progression have not been fully uncovered. In the present study, by analyzing the contents from normal fibroblasts (NFs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) with Real-Time qPCR analysis, we found that the tumor-initiating LncRNA TUC338 was significantly upregulated in the cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles, compared to the normal fibroblasts-secreted extracellular vesicles. Further experiments confirmed that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived extracellular vesicles promoted cell proliferation, colony formation abilities, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumorigenesis of LSCC cells via delivering LncRNA TUC338. The mechanical experiments verified that LncRNA TUC338 was stabilized by METTL3/YTHDF1-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications, and elevated LncRNA TUC338 sponged miR-8485 to upregulate chromobox homolog 2 (CBX2) in LSCC cells in a competing endogenous RNA mechanisms-dependent manner. Moreover, our rescue experiments evidenced that cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived LncRNA TUC338-containing extracellular vesicles-induced supportive effects in LSCC aggressiveness were all abrogated by overexpressing miR-8485 and silencing CBX2. Collectively, this study is the first to identify a novel m6A/LncRNA TUC338/miR-8485/CBX2 axis in CAFs-EVs-mediated LSCC development, and to show its potential as a diagnostic biomarker for LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Yiyuan Street No. 37, Nangang District, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Linli Tian
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Xuefu Road No. 246, Nangang District, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
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19
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Yang C, Shu J, Miao Y, Liu X, Zheng T, Hou R, Xiao J, Feng H. TRIM25 negatively regulates IKKε-mediated interferon signaling in black carp. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 142:109095. [PMID: 37730077 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.109095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
IKKε plays an important role in the activation of IRF3/IRF7 and the production of interferon (IFN), however, its regulation remains obscure in human. E3 ligase TRIM25 has been reported to manipulate the K63-linked ubiquitination of RIG-I, leading to the activation of RIG-I/IFN signaling. To elucidate the role of TRIM25 in teleost, a TRIM25 homolog (bcTRIM25) was cloned and characterized from black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus). bcTRIM25 contains 653 amino acids, possessing conservative RING, B-box and SPRY domain, which is highly expressed in muscle, spleen and skin. bcTRIM25 knock-down enhanced the antiviral ability of host cells. bcTRIM25 over-expression alone in EPC cells attenuated bcIFNa promoter transcription in the reporter assays and impeded PKR and MX1 expression in qRT-PCR. Interestingly, co-IP assays indicated that bcTRIM25 interacted with bcIKKε and the induced bcIFNa promoter transcription by bcIKKε was notably hindered by bcTRIM25. Furthermore, bcIKKε-induced expression of interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) and antiviral activity were dampened by bcTRIM25. Further exploration showed that bcTRIM25 visibly enhanced the ubiquitination of bcIKKε but significantly attenuated the phosphorylation of bcIKKε. Thus, our data demonstrate for the first time in vertebrate that TRIM25 negatively regulates IKKε through enhancing its ubiquitination, which sheds a light on the regulation of IKKε/IFN signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Juanjuan Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Yujia Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Tianle Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Ruixin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
| | - Hao Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
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20
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Zeng W, Xie F, Pan Y, Chen Z, Chen H, Liu X, Tian K, Xu D. A comprehensive prognostic score for head and neck squamous cancer driver genes and phenotype traits. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:193. [PMID: 37897503 PMCID: PMC10613197 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00796-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck squamous cancer (HNSCC) presents variable phenotype and progression features. Clinically applicable, high-accuracy multifactorial prognostic models for HNSCC survival outcomes are warranted and an active area of research. This study aimed to construct a comprehensive prognostic tool for HNSCC overall survival by integrating cancer driver genes with tumor clinical and phenotype information. METHODS Key overall survival-related cancer driver genes were screened from among main effector and reciprocal gene pairs using TCGA data using univariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. Independent validation was performed using the GSE41613 dataset. The main effector genes among these were selected using LASSO regression and transcriptome score modeling was performed using multivariate Cox regression followed by validation analysis of the prognostic score. Next, multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed using the transcriptome score combined with age, grade, gender, and stage. An 'Accurate Prediction Model of HNSCC Overall Survival Score' (APMHO) was computed and validated. Enriched functional pathways, gene mutational landscape, immune cell infiltration, and immunotherapy sensitivity markers associated with high and low APMHO scores were analyzed. RESULTS Screening 107 overall survival-related cancer genes and 402 interacting gene pairs, 6 genes: CRLF2, HSP90AA1, MAP2K1, PAFAH1B2, MYCL and SET genes, were identified and a transcriptional score was obtained. Age, stage and transcriptional score were found to be significant predictors in Cox regression analysis and used to construct a final APMHO model showing an AUC > 0.65 and validated. Transcriptional score, age, pathologic_N, pathologic_T, stage, and TCGA_subtype were significantly different in distribution between high and low APMHO groups. High APMHO samples showed significantly higher mutation rate, enriched tumor-related pathways including Hypoxia, unfold_protein_response, Glycolysis, and mTORC1 signaling, along with differences in immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint, interferon-γ pathway and m6A regulator expression patterns. CONCLUSION The APMHO score combining transcriptional and clinical variables showed good prognostic ability for HNSCC overall survival outcomes and was associated with different patterns of phenotypical features, immune and mutational landscape, and immunotherapy sensitivity marker expression. Future studies should validate this score in independent clinical cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zeng
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Xie
- Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, 341000, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiyun Pan
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengcong Chen
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Chen
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Liu
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Keqiang Tian
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dechang Xu
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Gannan Medical College Affiliated Cancer Hospital, No.19, Huayuan Road, Zhanggong Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Chen J, Ye M, Bai J, Gong Z, Yan L, Gu D, Hu C, Lu F, Yu P, Xu L, Wang Y, Tian Y, Tang Q. ALKBH5 enhances lipid metabolism reprogramming by increasing stability of FABP5 to promote pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms progression in an m6A-IGF2BP2-dependent manner. J Transl Med 2023; 21:741. [PMID: 37858219 PMCID: PMC10588038 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04578-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of post-transcriptional regulation has been recognized to be significantly impacted by the presence of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. As an m6A demethylase, ALKBH5 has been shown to contribute to the progression of different cancers by increasing expression of several oncogenes. Hence, a better understanding of the key targets of ALKBH5 in cancer cells could potentially lead to the development of new therapeutic targets. However, the specific role of ALKBH5 in pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs) remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrated that ALKBH5 was up-regulated in pNENs and played a critical role in tumor growth and lipid metabolism. Mechanistically, ALKBH5 over-expression was found to increase the expression of FABP5 in an m6A-IGF2BP2 dependent manner, leading to disorders in lipid metabolism. Additionally, ALKBH5 was found to activate PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, resulting in enhanced lipid metabolism and proliferation abilities. In conclusion, our study uncovers the ALKBH5/IGF2BP2/FABP5/mTOR axis as a mechanism for aberrant m6A modification in lipid metabolism and highlights a new molecular basis for the development of therapeutic strategies for pNENs treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhao Chen
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mujie Ye
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianan Bai
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhihui Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Friendship Hospital of Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Ili & Jiangsu Joint Institute of Health, Yining, 835000, Ili State, China
| | - Lijun Yan
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Danyang Gu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunhua Hu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feiyu Lu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Yu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Friendship Hospital of Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Ili & Jiangsu Joint Institute of Health, Yining, 835000, Ili State, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Qiyun Tang
- Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, No. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China.
- Digestive Endoscopy, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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22
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Li R, Li Y, Wang Z, Suo R, Ma R, Zhang J. miR-181-5p/KLHL5 Promoted Proliferation and Migration of Gastric Cancer Through Activating METTL3-Mediated m6A Process. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00877-x. [PMID: 37733183 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00877-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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
KLHL5 was a member of kelch-repeat protein family and was involved in the initiation of progression of a plethora of cancers. However, its specific role in gastric cancer was not explicitly illustrated. In this context, we aimed to investigate the biological role and mechanisms about KLHL5 in gastric cancer. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to investigate the expression of KLHL5 and EMT biomarkers. Wound healing assay, CCK-8, and Transwell assay were used to investigate the biological function of KLHL5. We found that KLHL5 was highly expressed in gastric cancer both in vivo and in vitro; besides, its high expression led to a shorter overall survival. Following statistical analysis showed that KLHL5 was associated with M stage. As for molecular experiments, we found that KLHL5 knockdown significantly reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of gastric cancer cell line MKN45 and SGC-7901. Furthermore, we found that miR-181-5p targeted KLHL5 to regulate m6A level through METTL3. In addition, KLHL5 knockdown could significantly reduce the lung metastasis rate in mice. In conclusion, we found that miR-181-5p/KLHL5 could promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer by activating m6A process through regulating METTL3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Yixing Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhiyu Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ruiyang Suo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ruining Ma
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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23
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Zhu L, Zhang H, Zhang X, Xia L. RNA m6A methylation regulators in sepsis. Mol Cell Biochem 2023:10.1007/s11010-023-04841-w. [PMID: 37659034 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04841-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is a class of epitope modifications that has received significant attention in recent years, particularly in relation to its role in various diseases, including sepsis. Epigenetic research has increasingly focused on m6A modifications, which is influenced by the dynamic regulation of three protein types: ‟Writers" (such as METTL3/METTL14/WTAP)-responsible for m6A modification; ‟Erasers" (FTO and ALKBH5)-involved in m6A de-modification; and ‟Readers" (YTHDC1/2, YTHDF1/2/3)-responsible for m6A recognition. Sepsis, a severe and fatal infectious disease, has garnered attention regarding the crucial effect of m6A modifications on its development. In this review, we attempted to summarize the recent studies on the involvement of m6A and its regulators in sepsis, as well as the significance of m6A modifications and their regulators in the development of novel drugs and clinical treatment. The potential value of m6A modifications and modulators in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of sepsis has also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hairong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Jinan, 250031, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Xia
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, People's Republic of China.
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Sun X, Fu S, Yuan X, Pu X, Wang R, Wang X, Lu H. RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in HNSCC: molecular mechanism and therapeutic potential. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1209-1214. [PMID: 37221404 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00628-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma ranks seventh in incidence of malignant tumours in the world. Although there are treatments including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, drug resistance to treatment is caused by various reasons, and the survival rate of patients remains frustrating. To overcome the bottleneck of treatment at this stage, it is urgent to identify possible diagnostic and prognostic markers. N6-methyladenosine is a methylation modification on the sixth N atom of adenine which is the most abundant epitope transcriptome modification in mammalian genes. N6-methyladenosine modification is reversible and results from the interaction among writers, erasers and readers. A large number of studies have proven that N6-methyladenosine modification has important significance in promoting the progression and treatment of tumours and have made great progress in research. In this review, we introduce how N6-methyladenosine modification promotes the occurrence and development of tumours, the mechanism of drug resistance, and new findings of N6-methyladenosine modification in radiotherapy and chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. N6-methyladenosine modification provides more possibilities for improving the overall survival rate and prognosis of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute Of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shengqiao Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute Of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute Of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute Of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - RunKun Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute Of Jiangsu University, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hanqiang Lu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China.
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25
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Musella M, Manduca N, Maccafeo E, Sistigu A. Epigenetics behind tumor immunology: a mini review. Oncogene 2023; 42:2932-2938. [PMID: 37604925 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02791-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Immunogenic- and immune-therapies have become hot spots in the treatment of cancer. Although promising, these strategies are frequently associated with innate or acquired resistance, calling for combined targeting of immune inhibitory signals. Epigenetic therapy is attracting considerable attention as a combination partner for immune-based therapies due to its role in molding the state and fate of cancer and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we describe epigenetic dysregulations in cancer, with a particular focus on those related to innate immune signaling and Type I interferons, and emphasize opportunities and current efforts to translate this knowledge into treatment regimens with improved clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Musella
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Manduca
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Ester Maccafeo
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Sistigu
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy.
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario 'A. Gemelli' - Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00168, Rome, Italy.
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26
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Hu J, Xue C, Wang Q. N 6-methyladenosine modification: an important player in the tumor immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115171. [PMID: 37494788 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The decoration of RNA with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a reversible post-transcriptional modification that plays an important regulatory role in all eukaryotic life activities. The m6A modification of RNA regulates the development and progression of tumors, including bladder cancer, melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) includes immune cells, cytokines, and cell surface molecules, which interact with each other and ultimately determine the flow of tumor immunity. The onset of cancer implies that the TIME has been reshaped into a pro-tumor state. The key to cancer treatment lies in reshaping the TIME to reset the anti-tumor immune response. Here, we have reviewed how RNA m6A modification affects the TIME, and discussed the merits of using m6A regulator inhibitors as an individual treatment strategy as well as in combination with immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxiang Hu
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingqing Wang
- Institute of Immunology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China; The Key Laboratory for Immunity and Inflammatory Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Lian B, Yan S, Li J, Bai Z, Li J. HNRNPC promotes collagen fiber alignment and immune evasion in breast cancer via activation of the VIRMA-mediated TFAP2A/DDR1 axis. Mol Med 2023; 29:103. [PMID: 37528369 PMCID: PMC10394847 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00696-5] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancers aggressively reorganize collagen in their microenvironment, leading to the evasion of tumor cells from immune surveillance. However, the biological significance and molecular mechanism of collagen alignment in breast cancer (BC) have not been well established. METHODS In this study, BC-related RNA-Seq data were obtained from the TCGA database to analyze the correlation between DDR1 and immune cells. Mouse BC cells EO771 were selected for in vitro validation, and dual-luciferase experiments were conducted to examine the effect of TFAP2A on DDR1 promoter transcription activity. ChIP experiments were performed to assess TFAP2A enrichment on the DDR1 promoter, while Me-RIP experiments were conducted to detect TFAP2A mRNA m6A modification levels, and PAR-CLIP experiments were conducted to determine VIRMA's binding to TFAP2A mRNA and RIP experiments to investigate HNRNPC's recognition of m6A modification on TFAP2A mRNA. Additionally, an in vivo mouse BC transplant model and the micro-physiological system was constructed for validation, and Masson staining was used to assess collagen fiber arrangement. Immunohistochemistry was conducted to identify the number of CD8-positive cells in mouse BC tumors and Collagen IV content in ECM, while CD8 + T cell migration experiments were performed to measure CD8 + T cell migration. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis showed that DDR1 was highly expressed in BC and negatively correlated with the proportion of anti-tumor immune cell infiltration. In vitro cell experiments indicated that VIRMA, HNRNPC, TFAP2A, and DDR1 were highly expressed in BC cells. In addition, HNRNPC promoted TFAP2A expression and, therefore, DDR1 transcription by recognizing the m6A modification of TFAP2A mRNA by VIRMA. In vivo animal experiments further confirmed that VIRMA and HNRNPC enhanced the TFAP2A/DDR1 axis, promoting collagen fiber alignment, reducing anti-tumor immune cell infiltration, and promoting immune escape in BC. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that HNRNPC promoted DDR1 transcription by recognizing VIRMA-unveiled m6A modification of TFAP2A mRNA, which enhanced collagen fiber alignment and ultimately resulted in the reduction of anti-tumor immune cell infiltration and promotion of immune escape in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lian
- Department of Surgical Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, No. 804, Shengli Street, Xingqing District, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
| | - Shuxun Yan
- Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | | | - Jinping Li
- Department of Surgical Oncology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, No. 804, Shengli Street, Xingqing District, Yinchuan, 750004, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
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28
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Kong Y, Yu J, Ge S, Fan X. Novel insight into RNA modifications in tumor immunity: Promising targets to prevent tumor immune escape. Innovation (N Y) 2023; 4:100452. [PMID: 37485079 PMCID: PMC10362524 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2023.100452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An immunosuppressive state is a typical feature of the tumor microenvironment. Despite the dramatic success of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in preventing tumor cell escape from immune surveillance, primary and acquired resistance have limited its clinical use. Notably, recent clinical trials have shown that epigenetic drugs can significantly improve the outcome of ICI therapy in various cancers, indicating the importance of epigenetic modifications in immune regulation of tumors. Recently, RNA modifications (N6-methyladenosine [m6A], N1-methyladenosine [m1A], 5-methylcytosine [m5C], etc.), novel hotspot areas of epigenetic research, have been shown to play crucial roles in protumor and antitumor immunity. In this review, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how m6A, m1A, and m5C function in tumor immunity by directly regulating different immune cells as well as indirectly regulating tumor cells through different mechanisms, including modulating the expression of immune checkpoints, inducing metabolic reprogramming, and affecting the secretion of immune-related factors. Finally, we discuss the current status of strategies targeting RNA modifications to prevent tumor immune escape, highlighting their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200001, China
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Wang Y, Zheng X, Huang W, Lu J, Hou N, Qi J, Ma J, Xue W, Zheng J, Zhai W. Loss of MIR503HG facilitates papillary renal cell carcinoma associated lymphatic metastasis by triggering NOTCH1/VEGFC signaling. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:3266-3284. [PMID: 37416763 PMCID: PMC10321273 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.83302] [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: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical lymphatic metastasis indicates an extremely poor prognosis. Patients with papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC) have a high probability of progressing to lymphatic metastasis. However, the molecular mechanism of pRCC-associated lymphatic metastasis has not been elucidated. In this study, we found a downregulated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MIR503HG in pRCC primary tumor tissues due to hypermethylation at the CpG islands within its transcriptional start site. Decreased MIR503HG expression could stimulate tube formation and migration of human lymphatic endothelial cell (HLEC) and play a central role to promote lymphatic metastasis in vivo by enhancing tumor lymphangiogenesis. MIR503HG, located in the nucleus, bound with histone variant H2A.Z and affected the recruitment of histone variant H2A.Z to chromatin. Subsequently, increasing the H3K27 trimethylation caused by MIR503HG-overexpression epigenetically downregulated the NOTCH1 expression, which ultimately resulted in decreasing VEGFC secretion and lymphangiogenesis. Additionally, downregulated MIR503HG facilitated the HNRNPC expression, which ultimately promoted the maturation of NOTCH1 mRNA. Notably, upregulating MIR503HG expression might decrease pRCC resistance to the mTOR inhibitor. Together, these findings highlighted a VEGFC-independent mechanism of MIR503HG-mediated lymphatic metastasis. MIR503HG, identified as a novel pRCC-suppressor, would serve as the potentially biomarker for lymphatic metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Wang
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xinyi Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 12 Middle Urumqi Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Department of Urology, Yangpu Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200090, China
| | - Jiayi Lu
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Naiqiao Hou
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jiabao Qi
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Junjie Ma
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Wei Xue
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Junhua Zheng
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Wei Zhai
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
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30
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Yang J, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:210. [PMID: 37217462 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01480-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Over decades, researchers have focused on the epigenetic control of DNA-templated processes. Histone modification, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, RNA modification, and noncoding RNAs modulate many biological processes that are crucial to the development of cancers. Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programs. A growing body of evidence suggests that the mechanisms of epigenetic modification are dysregulated in human cancers and might be excellent targets for tumor treatment. Epigenetics has also been shown to influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses. Thus, the development and application of epigenetic therapy and cancer immunotherapy and their combinations may have important implications for cancer treatment. Here, we present an up-to-date and thorough description of how epigenetic modifications in tumor cells influence immune cell responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and how epigenetics influence immune cells internally to modify the TME. Additionally, we highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer immunotherapy. Harnessing the complex interplay between epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop therapeutics that combine thereof is challenging but could yield significant benefits. The purpose of this review is to assist researchers in understanding how epigenetics impact immune responses in the TME, so that better cancer immunotherapies can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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31
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Guan Q, Lin H, Hua W, Lin L, Liu J, Deng L, Zhang J, Cheng J, Yang Z, Li Y, Bian J, Zhou H, Li S, Li L, Miao L, Xia H, He J, Zhuo Z. Variant rs8400 enhances ALKBH5 expression through disrupting miR-186 binding and promotes neuroblastoma progression. Chin J Cancer Res 2023; 35:140-162. [PMID: 37180836 PMCID: PMC10167609 DOI: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2023.02.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) has been proven to be closely related to tumors. However, the role and molecular mechanism of ALKBH5 in neuroblastomas have rarely been reported. Methods The potential functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ALKBH5 were identified by National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) dbSNP screening and SNPinfo software. TaqMan probes were used for genotyping. A multiple logistic regression model was used to evaluate the effects of different SNP loci on the risk of neuroblastoma. The expression of ALKBH5 in neuroblastoma was evaluated by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), plate colony formation and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to compare cell migration and invasion. Thermodynamic modelling was performed to predict the ability of miRNAs to bind to ALKBH5 with the rs8400 G/A polymorphism. RNA sequencing, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) sequencing, m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) and a luciferase assay were used to identify the targeting effect of ALKBH5 on SPP1. Results ALKBH5 was highly expressed in neuroblastoma. Knocking down ALKBH5 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of cancer cells. miR-186-3p negatively regulates the expression of ALKBH5, and this ability is affected by the rs8400 polymorphism. When the G nucleotide was mutated to A, the ability of miR-186-3p to bind to the 3'-UTR of ALKBH5 decreased, resulting in upregulation of ALKBH5. SPP1 is the downstream target gene of the ALKBH5 oncogene. Knocking down SPP1 partially restored the inhibitory effect of ALKBH5 downregulation on neuroblastoma. Downregulation of ALKBH5 can improve the therapeutic efficacy of carboplatin and etoposide in neuroblastoma. Conclusions We first found that the rs8400 G>A polymorphism in the m6A demethylase-encoding gene ALKBH5 increases neuroblastoma susceptibility and determines the related mechanisms. The aberrant regulation of ALKBH5 by miR-186-3p caused by this genetic variation in ALKBH5 promotes the occurrence and development of neuroblastoma through the ALKBH5-SPP1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Guan
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Huiran Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Wenfeng Hua
- Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Lei Lin
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiabin Liu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Linqing Deng
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Jiwen Cheng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, China
| | - Zhonghua Yang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Jun Bian
- Department of General Surgery, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University Affiliated Children’s Hospital, Xi’an 710003, China
| | - Haixia Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Suhong Li
- Department of Pathology, Children Hospital and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan 030013, China
| | - Li Li
- Kunming Key Laboratory of Children Infection and Immunity, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Children’s Major Disease Research, Yunnan Institute of Pediatrics Research, Yunnan Medical Center for Pediatric Diseases, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming 650228, China
| | - Lei Miao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Huimin Xia
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jing He
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Zhenjian Zhuo
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structural Birth Defect Disease, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
- Laboratory Animal Center, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
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32
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Zhang S, Shen T, Zeng Y. Epigenetic Modifications in Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082243. [PMID: 37190171 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The gradual evolution of prostate tissue from benign tumor to malignant lesion or distant metastasis is driven by intracellular epigenetic changes and the tumor microenvironment remodeling. With the continuous study of epigenetic modifications, these tumor-driving forces are being discovered and are providing new treatments for cancer. Here we introduce the classification of epigenetic modification and highlight the role of epigenetic modification in tumor remodeling and communication of the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouyi Zhang
- Department of Urology, the Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology & Liaoning Cancer Hospital, Shenyang 110042, China
| | - Tao Shen
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shenyang Medical College, No. 20 Beijiu Road, Heping District, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Yu Zeng
- Department of Urology, the Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology & Liaoning Cancer Hospital, Shenyang 110042, China
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33
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Cao X, Geng Q, Fan D, Wang Q, Wang X, Zhang M, Zhao L, Jiao Y, Deng T, Liu H, Zhou J, Jia L, Xiao C. m 6A methylation: a process reshaping the tumour immune microenvironment and regulating immune evasion. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:42. [PMID: 36859310 PMCID: PMC9976403 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is the most universal internal modification in eukaryotic mRNA. With elaborate functions executed by m6A writers, erasers, and readers, m6A modulation is involved in myriad physiological and pathological processes. Extensive studies have demonstrated m6A modulation in diverse tumours, with effects on tumorigenesis, metastasis, and resistance. Recent evidence has revealed an emerging role of m6A modulation in tumour immunoregulation, and divergent m6A methylation patterns have been revealed in the tumour microenvironment. To depict the regulatory role of m6A methylation in the tumour immune microenvironment (TIME) and its effect on immune evasion, this review focuses on the TIME, which is characterized by hypoxia, metabolic reprogramming, acidity, and immunosuppression, and outlines the m6A-regulated TIME and immune evasion under divergent stimuli. Furthermore, m6A modulation patterns in anti-tumour immune cells are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Cao
- grid.415954.80000 0004 1771 3349Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qishun Geng
- grid.415954.80000 0004 1771 3349Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China ,grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Danping Fan
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Beijing Key Laboratory of Research of Chinese Medicine on Prevention and Treatment for Major Diseases, Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176China-Japan Friendship Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Wang
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176China-Japan Friendship Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mengxiao Zhang
- grid.415954.80000 0004 1771 3349Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XChina-Japan Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Jiao
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176China-Japan Friendship Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Deng
- grid.415954.80000 0004 1771 3349Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Honglin Liu
- grid.415954.80000 0004 1771 3349Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- grid.256607.00000 0004 1798 2653Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
| | - Liqun Jia
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China. .,Department of Emergency, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Yu BY, Shi LG, Jiang C, Wang GK, Liu J, Wu TY. Kinesin family member C 1 overexpression exerts tumor-promoting properties in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma via the Rac1/Wnt/β-catenin pathway. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100134. [PMID: 36990154 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinesin family member C 1 (KIFC1) is a kinesin-14 motor protein, and its abnormal upregulation promotes the malignant behavior of cancer cells. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is a common modification of eukaryotic mRNA and affects RNA expression. Herein, we explored how KIFC1 regulated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tumorigenesis and how m6A modification affected KIFC1 expression. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to screen for genes of interest, and in vitro and in vivo studies were carried out to investigate the function and mechanism of KIFC1 in HNSCC. We observed that the expression of KIFC1 in HNSCC tissues was significantly higher than in normal or adjacent normal tissues. Cancer patients with higher KIFC1 expression have lower tumor differentiation status. Demethylase alkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5), a cancer-promoting factor in HNSCC, could interact with KIFC1 mRNA and post-transcriptionally activated KIFC1 through m6A modification. KIFC1 downregulation suppressed HNSCC cell growth and metastasis in vivo and in vitro. However, overexpression of KIFC1 promoted these malignant behaviors. We demonstrated that KIFC1 overexpression activated the oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin pathway. KIFC1 interacted with the small GTPase Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) at the protein level and increased activity. The Rho GTPase Rac1 was indicated to be an upstream activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and its Rac1 inhibitor, NSC-23766, treatment reversed the effects caused by KIFC1 overexpression. Those observations demonstrate that abnormal expression of KIFC1 may be regulated by demethylase ALKBH5 in an m6A-dependent manner and promote HNSCC progression via the Rac1/Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Yu Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ling-Gai Shi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chang Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Guang-Ke Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Tian-Yi Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Feng J, Meng W, Chen L, Zhang X, Markazi A, Yuan W, Huang Y, Gao SJ. N6-Methyladenosine and Reader Protein YTHDF2 Enhance the Innate Immune Response by Mediating DUSP1 mRNA Degradation and Activating Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases during Bacterial and Viral Infections. mBio 2023; 14:e0334922. [PMID: 36625590 PMCID: PMC9973302 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03349-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) play critical roles in the induction of numerous cytokines, chemokines, and inflammatory mediators that mobilize the immune system to counter pathogenic infections. Dual-specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1) is a member of the dual-specificity phosphatases that inactivates MAPKs through a negative-feedback mechanism. Here, we report that in response to viral and bacterial infections, not only the DUSP1 transcript but also its N6-methyladenosine (m6A) levels rapidly increase together with that of the m6A reader protein YTHDF2, resulting in enhanced YTHDF2-mediated DUSP1 transcript degradation. The knockdown of DUSP1 promotes p38 and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation and activation, thus increasing the expression of innate immune response genes, including the interleukin-1β (IL-1β), colony-stimulating factor 3 (CSF3), transglutaminase 2 (TGM2), and proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC) genes. Similarly, the knockdown of the m6A eraser ALKBH5 increases the DUSP1 transcript m6A level, resulting in accelerated transcript degradation, the activation of p38 and JNK, and the enhanced expression of IL-1β, CSF3, TGM2, and SRC. These results demonstrate that m6A and the reader protein YTHDF2 orchestrate optimal innate immune responses during viral and bacterial infections by downregulating the expression of a negative regulator, DUSP1, of the p38 and JNK pathways that are central to innate immune responses against pathogenic infections. IMPORTANCE Innate immunity is central to controlling pathogenic infections and maintaining the homeostasis of the host. In this study, we have revealed a novel mechanism regulating innate immune responses during viral and bacterial infections. We have found that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and the reader protein YTHDF2 regulate dual-specificity phosphatase 1, a negative regulator of the mitogen-activated protein kinases p38 and JNK, to maximize innate immune responses during viral and bacterial infections. These results provide novel insights into the mechanism regulating innate immunity, which could help in the development of novel approaches for controlling pathogenic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Feng
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wen Meng
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Luping Chen
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xinquan Zhang
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ashley Markazi
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Weiming Yuan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yufei Huang
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shou-Jiang Gao
- Cancer Virology Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Yang Y, Cai Z, Huang K, Li M, Wang X, Lin Y, Chen S, Yang Z, Lin Z. A composite score based on immune-related gene prognostic index and m 6A risk score of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Genet 2023; 14:1061569. [PMID: 36845378 PMCID: PMC9948032 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1061569] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Immunotherapy has been demonstrated favorable in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Studies indicated that immune-related gene prognostic index (IRGPI) was a robust signature, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation had a significant impact on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and immunotherapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Thus, combining indicated that immune-related gene prognostic index with m6A status should offer a better predictive power for immune responses. Methods: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma samples from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA, n = 498) and gene expression omnibus database (GSE65858, n = 270) were used in this study. Cox regression analysis was used to construct the indicated that immune-related gene prognostic index through immune-related hub genes which were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The m6A risk score was constructed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. Principal component analysis was used to construct a composite score, and systematically correlate subgroups according to tumor immune microenvironment cell-infiltrating characteristics. Results: A composite score was determined based on indicated that immune-related gene prognostic index and m6A risk score. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients in the cancer genome atlas were divided into four subgroups: A (IRGPI-High&m6A-risk-High, n = 127), B (IRGPI-High&m6A-risk-Low, n = 99), C (IRGPI-Low&m6A-risk-High, n = 99), and D (IRGPI-Low&m6A-risk-Low, n = 128), and overall survival (OS) was significantly different between subgroups (p < 0.001). The characteristics of tumor immune microenvironment cell infiltration in the four subgroups were significantly different in subgroups (p < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves show the predictive value of composite score for overall survival was superior to other scores. Conclusion: The composite score is a promising prognostic signature which might distinguish immune and molecular characteristics, predict prognosis, and guide more effective immunotherapeutic strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zeman Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kaichun Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yinbing Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sijie Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhining Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhixiong Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Research Center of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- *Correspondence: Zhixiong Lin,
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Ma S, Barr T, Yu J. Recent Advances of RNA m 6A Modifications in Cancer Immunoediting and Immunotherapy. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:49-94. [PMID: 38112999 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_3] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, which modulates immune responses against tumors using immune-checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell transfer, has emerged as a novel and promising therapy for tumors. However, only a minority of patients demonstrate durable responses, while the majority of patients are resistant to immunotherapy. The immune system can paradoxically constrain and promote tumor development and progression. This process is referred to as cancer immunoediting. The mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy seem to be that cancer cells undergo immunoediting to evade recognition and elimination by the immune system. RNA modifications, specifically N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, have emerged as a key regulator of various post-transcriptional gene regulatory processes, such as RNA export, splicing, stability, and degradation, which play unappreciated roles in various physiological and pathological processes, including immune system development and cancer pathogenesis. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which RNA modifications impact the cancer immunoediting process can provide insight into the mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapies and the strategies that can be used to overcome such resistance. In this chapter, we briefly introduce the background of cancer immunoediting and immunotherapy. We also review and discuss the roles and mechanisms of RNA m6A modifications in fine-tuning the innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in regulating tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Finally, we summarize the current strategies targeting m6A regulators for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Tasha Barr
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
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Chen J, Ye M, Bai J, Hu C, Lu F, Gu D, Yu P, Tang Q. Novel insights into the interplay between m6A modification and programmed cell death in cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:1748-1763. [PMID: 37063421 PMCID: PMC10092764 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.81000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, the most prevalent and abundant RNA modification in eukaryotes, has recently become a hot research topic. Several studies have indicated that m6A modification is dysregulated during the progression of multiple diseases, especially in cancer development. Programmed cell death (PCD) is an active and orderly method of cell death in the development of organisms, including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis. As the study of PCD has become increasingly profound, accumulating evidence has revealed the mutual regulation of m6A modification and PCD, and their interaction can further influence the sensitivity of cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in m6A modification and PCD in terms of their interplay and potential mechanisms, as well as cancer therapeutic resistance. Our study provides promising insights and future directions for the examination and treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Qiyun Tang
- ✉ Corresponding author: Qiyun Tang, Department of Geriatric Gastroenterology, Neuroendocrine Tumor Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Institute of Neuroendocrine Tumor, Nanjing Medical University, NO. 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, China.
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Udompatanakorn C, Sriviriyakul P, Taebunpakul P. A study of RNA m6A demethylases in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2023; 13:111-116. [PMID: 36582218 PMCID: PMC9792536 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) modification is involved in the tumorigenesis of various cancers. However, the roles of RNA m6A demethylases, fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), and AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) in oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remain unclear. This study focuses on FTO and ALKBH5 expression by using immunohistochemistry. Material and methods Twenty specimens each of OED, OSCC, and normal oral mucosa (NOM) were included. The expression pattern, the number of positive cells, the cell-staining intensity, and the histochemical scoring (H-score) were examined and analyzed. Results In all the OED and OSCC specimens, FTO and ALKBH5 were mainly expressed with moderate to strong staining intensity in the nuclei of the abnormal epithelial cells, respectively. Regarding the NOM, both RNA demethylases showed mild cell staining intensity and was present in 50-60% of the specimens. Interestingly, the percentage of cell positivity, the cell-staining intensity, and the H-score of the FTO and ALKBH5 in NOM, OED, and OSCC were increased, respectively (p < 0.001). There was also a positive correlation between the FTO and ALKBH5 expressions in OSCC (r = 0.62, p = 0.003), but not in the NOM and OED. Conclusion These results suggest a possible prognostic role of FTO and ALKBH5 expression in the malignant transformation of OED and tumor progression. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the roles of FTO and ALKBH5 in carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatchaphan Udompatanakorn
- Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pichamon Sriviriyakul
- Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patrayu Taebunpakul
- Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand,Corresponding author. Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, 114, Sukhumvit 23, Wattana, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand.
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Liu H, Wang D, Yang Z, Li S, Wu H, Xiang J, Kan S, Hao M, Liu W. Regulation of epigenetic modifications in the head and neck tumour microenvironment. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1050982. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1050982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck tumours are common malignancies that are associated with high mortality. The low rate of early diagnosis and the high rates of local recurrence and distant metastasis are the main reasons for treatment failure. Recent studies have established that the tumour microenvironment (TME) can affect the proliferation and metastasis of head and neck tumours via several mechanisms, including altered expressions of certain genes and cytokines. Increasing evidence has shown that epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, RNA modification, and non-coding RNAs, can regulate the head and neck TME and thereby influence tumour development. Epigenetic modifications can regulate the expression of different genes and subsequently alter the TME to affect the progression of head and neck tumours. In addition, the cell components in the TME are regulated by epigenetic modifications, which, in turn, affect the behaviour of head and neck tumour cells. In this review, we have discussed the functions of epigenetic modifications in the head and neck TME. We have further examined the roles of such modifications in the malignancy and metastasis of head and neck tumours.
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Wang S, Ding B, Wang S, Yan W, Xia Q, Meng D, Xie S, Shen S, Yu B, Liu H, Hu J, Zhang X. Gene signature of m 6A RNA regulators in diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and immune microenvironment for cervical cancer. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17667. [PMID: 36271283 PMCID: PMC9587246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22211-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Continuing studies imply that m6A RNA modification is involved in the development of cervical cancer (CC), but lack strong support on recurrence and diagnosis prediction. In this research, a comprehensive analysis of 33 m6A regulators was performed to fulfill them. Here, we performed diagnostic and prognosis models and identified key regulators, respectively. Then the CC patients were separated into two clusters in accordance with 33 regulators, and participants in the cluster 1 had a worse prognosis. Subsequently, the m6AScore was calculated to quantify the m6A modification pattern based on regulators and we found that patients in cluster 1 had higher m6AScore. Afterwards, immune microenvironment, cell infiltration, escape analyses and tumor burden mutation analyses were executed, and results showed that m6AScore was correlated with them, but to a limited extent. Interestingly, HLAs and immune checkpoint expression, and immunophenoscore in patients with high-m6AScores were significantly lower than those in the low-m6AScore group. These suggested the m6AScores might be used to predict the feasibility of immunotherapy in patients. Results provided a distinctive perspective on m6A modification and theoretical basis for CC diagnosis, prognosis, clinical treatment strategies, and potential mechanism exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhi Wang
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Bo Ding
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shiyuan Wang
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Wenjing Yan
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Qianqian Xia
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Dan Meng
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Shuqian Xie
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Siyuan Shen
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Bingjia Yu
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Haohan Liu
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Jing Hu
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Xing Zhang
- grid.263826.b0000 0004 1761 0489Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009 China
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m6A RNA methylation regulator-related signatures exhibit good prognosis prediction ability for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16358. [PMID: 36175504 PMCID: PMC9523032 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20873-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has become the sixth most common malignant disease worldwide and is associated with high mortality, with an overall 5-year survival rate of less than 50%. Recent studies have demonstrated that aberrantly expressed m6A regulators are involved in multiple biological and pathological processes, including cancers, but the specific mechanisms of m6A regulators in HNSCC are not well elucidated. In this study, we adopted The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-HNSCC database and performed a consensus clustering analysis to classify the HNSCC samples. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was applied to construct an m6A signature-based HNSCC risk prediction model. Cell type identification based on estimating relative subsets of RNA transcripts (CIBERSORT) algorithms was adopted to evaluate the immune cell infiltration level in the tumor microenvironment. Based on the expression of m6A regulators in HNSCC, we identified two clusters, cluster 1 (C1) and cluster 2 (C2). C2 showed a better prognosis than C1 and was mainly enriched in the HIPPO, MYC, NOTCH, and NRF signaling pathways. We constructed an m6A signature-based risk score model and classified patients into high- and low-risk score subgroups. The high-risk-score group showed poor clinical characteristics, higher immune infiltration levels, higher chemokine and chemokine receptor expression levels, and lower immune checkpoint gene expression than the low-risk-score subgroup. In conclusion, our comprehensive analysis suggests that the m6A signature-based risk score might function as a good prognostic predictor. Our study may provide novel therapeutic clues and help predict the prognosis of HNSCC.
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Yang Y, Lin Z, Cai Z, Huang K, Li M, Wang X, Lin Y, Chen S, Yang Z. A composite score based on immune-related gene prognostic index and m6A risk score of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1987322/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AbstractBackground:Immunotherapy has been demonstrated favorable in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Studies indicated that immune-related gene prognostic index (IRGPI) was a robust signature, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation had a significant impact on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and immunotherapy of HNSCC. Thus, combining IRGPI with m6A status should offer a better predictive power for immune responses.Methods:HNSCC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA, n=498) and Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE65858, n = 270) were used in this study. Cox regression analysis was used to construct the IRGPI through immune-related hub genes which were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The m6A risk score was constructed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. Principal component analysis was used to construct a composite score, and systematically correlate subgroups according to TIME cell-infiltrating characteristics.Results:A composite score was determined based on IRGPI and m6A risk score. HNSCC patients in the TCGA were divided into four subgroups:A (IRGPI-High&m6A-risk-High, n=127), B (IRGPI-High&m6A-risk-Low, n=99), C (IRGPI-Low&m6A-risk-High, n=99) and D (IRGPI-Low&m6A-risk-Low, n=128), and overall survival (OS) was significantly different between subgroups (P< 0.001). The characteristics of TIME cell infiltration in the four subgroups were significantly different in subgroups (P< 0.05). The ROC curves show the predictive value of composite score for OS was superior to any other scores.Conclusions:The composite score is a promising prognostic signature which might distinguish immune and molecular characteristics, predict prognosis, and guide more effective immunotherapeutic strategies for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Yang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, Shantou
| | - Zhixiong Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University
| | - Zeman Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University
| | - Kaichun Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University
| | - Xiao Wang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, Shantou
| | - Yinbing Lin
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, Shantou
| | - Sijie Chen
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, Shantou
| | - Zhining Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University
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TAB2 Promotes the Biological Functions of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells via EMT and PI3K Pathway. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:1217918. [PMID: 35978886 PMCID: PMC9377915 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1217918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Transforming growth factor β1-activated kinase 1 binding protein 2 (TAB2) mediates a variety of biological processes through activated nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) signaling pathways. TAB2 has been reported to be upregulated in a variety of tumors. However, little is known about its potential role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Material and Methods. Patients' clinicopathological and transcription data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to determine TAB2 expression in OSCC tissues (IHC). The expression of TAB2 in OSCC cell lines was detected by western blotting. The CCK-8 test and flow cytometry assay were utilized to evaluate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle in OSCC cell lines. Enrichment analysis and identification of predicted signaling pathways were performed by Gene Ontology and KEGG analysis. Finally, the expression of downstream signal molecules was performed using western blotting to validate the mechanism investigations. Results TAB2 expression level was aberrantly upregulated in OSCC patients. TAB2 expression was shown to be inversely associated to prognosis. The phenotypic of OSCC cells was considerably impacted by TAB2. OSCC cells with deleted TAB2 exhibit decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis. Additionally, OSCC progression is aided by TAB2 overexpression. Further mechanism studies showed that TAB2 could regulate the progression of OSCC by mediating the upregulation of EMT and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. Conclusion This study sheds light on the carcinogenic role of TAB2 in OSCC and provides a potential therapeutic strategy.
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The Role of RNA Modification in HIV-1 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147571. [PMID: 35886919 PMCID: PMC9317671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA plays an important role in biology, and more than 170 RNA modifications have been identified so far. Post-transcriptional modification of RNA in cells plays a crucial role in the regulation of its stability, transport, processing, and gene expression. So far, the research on RNA modification and the exact role of its enzymes is becoming more and more comprehensive. Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) is an RNA virus and the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is one of the most devastating viral pandemics in history. More and more studies have shown that HIV has RNA modifications and regulation of its gene expression during infection and replication. This review focuses on several RNA modifications and their regulatory roles as well as the roles that different RNA modifications play during HIV-1 infection, in order to find new approaches for the development of anti-HIV-1 therapeutics.
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